# NIVEA Soft Moisturizing Cream for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Warning fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Caution · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Warning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [NIVEA](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/nivea)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A poor match for oily skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your oily skin due to glycerin and jojoba seed oil, which hydrate and enhance barrier resilience.
- The presence of mineral oil and petrolatum poses a high risk of worsening oily shine and potentially contributing to breakouts, making it unsuitable for oily skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin): Warning (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin): Caution
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Caution
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Caution

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Mineral Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dimethicone

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Repeated application of concentrated water-in-oil emulsions over four weeks caused no skin irritation, positively affected skin properties, and delivered almost 50% of the applied fluorescein sodium, with isopropyl myristate showing superior penetration performance compared to liquid paraffin in healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31525444/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Topical application of jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- Topical jojoba oil application in male mice decreased exercise-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression (Il-1b and Il-6 in soleus, Il-1b in gastrocnemius) compared to untreated exercised mice. ([Biomolecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41154623/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream is a highly praised lightweight and fast-absorbing daily moisturizer that effectively hydrates normal to dry skin on the face, hands, and body, leaving it smooth and supple. A recent formula change has caused frustration among long-time users, and those with acne-prone or highly sensitive skin report occasional issues with breakouts and irritation.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight and fast-absorbing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Versatile all-over use (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Disliked new formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good under makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes acne breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritates sensitive skin (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine every day to keep your face fresh.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toning, but right before your SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and let it absorb fully.
- Apply on clean, slightly dry skin to help control that oily shine.
- Avoid the eye area and do a quick patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise against Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream for oily skin?

Lovi advises against this cream because mineral oil and petrolatum pose a high risk of worsening oily shine and may contribute to breakouts. To properly care for oily skin, a moisturizer needs lightweight hydrating agents and peptides that manage hydration and maintain a light texture without heavy oils.

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for oily skin?

Mineral oil and petrolatum make this cream a poor fit because they pose a high risk of worsening oily shine and potentially contributing to breakouts. Oily skin needs a lightweight moisturizer with peptides and hydrating agents that lack heavy oils and support the skin barrier without causing excess oiliness.

### What does Glycerin do for oily skin?

Glycerin helps keep oily skin hydrated without feeling heavy and supports the skin barrier. Because this product is a weak fit for your skin, an ideal product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that balance oil while protecting the skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31840548/)

### What does Mineral Oil do for oily skin?

Mineral oil helps trap moisture in dry skin, but it is unlikely to be a good fit for oily skin because it can feel too heavy. Oily skin needs lightweight, oil-free hydrators and ingredients that help balance shine.

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This cream is a poor match for oily skin because ingredients like mineral oil and petrolatum may worsen shine and contribute to breakouts. Oily skin needs lightweight moisturizers with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and jojoba seed oil that provide moisture without heavy oils.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

This cream is a poor match for oily skin because ingredients like mineral oil and petrolatum pose a high risk of worsening shine and breakouts. To safely use a moisturizer with retinol on oily skin, you need a lightweight, oil-free formula with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides that supports the skin barrier without clogging pores.

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a poor match for oily skin because the mineral oil and petrolatum in it pose a high risk of worsening shine and breakouts. Oily skin needs a lightweight moisturizer with water-binding ingredients and balancing hydrators that keep skin comfortable without heavy oils.

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

Yes, this cream may cause breakouts and worsen oily shine because it contains mineral oil and petrolatum, which pose a high risk for oily skin. Oily skin needs lightweight, oil-free moisturizers with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid that keep skin soft without clogging pores.

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

You can use this cream on your body, but it is a poor match for the very thin skin around the eyes where heavier creams may cause milia or irritation. The skin around the eyes needs lightweight, soothing formulas that hydrate without feeling heavy or clogging pores.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.88 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $25.00 at Amazon

## Routine for oily skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $14.97 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $50.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Pixi Glow Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pixi/glow-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $28.42 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $39.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $50.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $69.00 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Revision Skincare Black Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/revision-skincare/black-mask/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $79.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $39.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $10.99 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5YL9MZF?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Myristyl Alcohol, Mineral Oil, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat, Stearic Acid, Petrolatum, Myristyl Myristate, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Dimethicone, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lanolin Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-2 Caprate, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin