# SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturizer for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-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: [SkinMedica](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/skinmedica)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for dry sensitive skin; a few moisturizers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your dry and sensitive skin, this moisturizer leverages sodium hyaluronate and panthenol to provide excellent hydration and enhance barrier resilience. Tocopherol and tocopheryl acetate further support skin health with their antioxidant properties, complementing your dry skin type.
- The formula offers moderate hydration, effectively addressing dryness and flakiness by delivering general skincare benefits.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your dry and sensitive skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Tocopherol

## What the research says

- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- Co-encapsulation of alpha-tocopherol and alpha-tocopheryl acetate in nanostructured lipid carrier gel formulations significantly enhanced moisture retention up to 68% and improved skin elasticity in human volunteers compared to a solution gel. ([Scientific Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41309687/))
- Vitamin E in O/W and W/O emulsions significantly increased stratum corneum hydration and enhanced water-binding capacity, with an optimum concentration of 5%. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9706379/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Externally applied substances such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, licorice extracts, dimethicone, petrolatum, and paraffin wax treat skin disease resulting from damage to the skin barrier. ([Clinics in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22507050/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This moisturizer is highly regarded for its ultra-lightweight, oil-free formula, making it an excellent choice for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types as it hydrates without clogging pores. It also provides a smooth, matte finish ideal for makeup application and offers antioxidant benefits. However, users with dry skin or those in dry climates may find it insufficient for their hydration needs.

- Liked: Lightweight feel (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Acne-safe formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good for oily skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Not enough hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and soothing (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Makeup base (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Rare reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Thin consistency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using this moisturizer 3 times a week and move to daily use if your dry skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toner in the morning, or after your serum in the evening. Always pair it with SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing it harshly to protect your sensitive skin.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help with hydration absorption. This also works well for dry and flaky skin types.
- Do a patch test before your first use. Avoid the eye area to prevent any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes SkinMedica Ultra Sheer a great fit for dry sensitive skin?

SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturizer is a great fit because it uses sodium hyaluronate and panthenol to deliver deep hydration and strengthen your skin barrier. It also includes antioxidants like tocopherol to support overall skin health, while its gentle formula avoids harsh ingredients to ensure a very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### Which ingredients make this moisturizer a good fit for dry sensitive skin?

This moisturizer is a great fit for your dry sensitive skin because it uses sodium hyaluronate and panthenol to deliver deep hydration and strengthen your skin barrier. It also includes vitamin E forms to provide antioxidant support while keeping the formula gentle and safe without harsh ingredients.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

### What does Vitamin C do for dry sensitive skin?

Vitamin C helps make dry, sensitive skin feel softer and calmer while improving firmness and reducing redness. Studies show that gentle forms of vitamin C can improve skin hydration and elasticity safely without causing irritation.
Sources: [Antioxidants, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38397772/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30924254/)

### Where does this moisturizer go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This moisturizer goes in your evening routine as the final step after your treatment, and it is also used in the weekly routine. It is a great fit for your dry and sensitive skin because it uses sodium hyaluronate and panthenol to deliver soothing hydration and strengthen your skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol by applying it after your retinol treatment in your evening routine. Using a barrier-enhancing moisturizer helps reduce irritation and makes your skin more comfortable while using strong treatments.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this moisturizer?

Use this moisturizer in your evening routine as the final step after your treatment. It is unlikely to irritate dry and sensitive skin, so you can apply it daily.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturizer is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin because its formula avoids heavy, pore-clogging ingredients. The product has an excellent safety profile with no harsh components, making it gentle for daily use without triggering reactions.

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

You can use this moisturizer around the eyes and on your body because its gentle formula and hydrating ingredients are well-suited for delicate and varied skin thicknesses. It is unlikely to cause irritation, and ingredients like sodium hyaluronate and panthenol help keep dry skin feeling soft and smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- [Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/obagi/hydrate-luxe/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $85.00 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $12.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United States has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Sorbitan Stearate, Methyl Gluceth-20, Polysorbate 60, Dimethicone, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Aminomethyl Propanol, Carbomer, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Isobutylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
## 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/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinmedica/ultra-sheer-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin