# Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Silky Cream for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your combination skin, as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential hydration and plumping effects, though it lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control on your oily areas.
- The formula provides general skincare benefits and hydration from sodium hyaluronate and squalane, which are supportive for oily shine and combination skin, but it does not contain targeted ingredients to address your primary concern.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Glycerin, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Kalanchoe Pinnata Leaf Extract

## 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Optimized transfersomes loaded with epigallocatechin-3-gallate and hyaluronic acid increased cell viability while reducing lipid peroxidation, intracellular ROS, and MMP expression in HaCaT cells, and exhibited higher skin permeation and deposition compared to plain EGCG. ([Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/))
- 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/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of an emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- Ointments formulated from the crude extract, aqueous fraction, and methanolic fraction of Kalanchoe petitiana leaves significantly improved wound healing parameters including wound contraction, epithelialization time, hydroxyproline content, and skin breaking strength in mice compared to negative controls. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23228912/))
- Topical formulations containing aqueous extract of Kalanchoe brasiliensis and Kalanchoe pinnata reduced croton oil-induced ear edema and carrageenan-induced paw edema in Swiss mice compared to untreated controls, with K. brasiliensis showing a better result by being active at the lowest concentration. ([Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & Pharmacotherapie, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30856538/))
- Topical treatment with a 5% Bryophyllum pinnatum leaf extract gel formulation promoted skin wound healing by reducing wound area, decreasing inflammatory infiltrate and IL-1β and TNF-α levels, and increasing VEGF expression in rats, showing an effect similar to Fibrinase. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36712663/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with normal to dry skin highly recommend this cream for its exceptional ability to combat dehydration and improve skin's plumpness and radiance. The silky texture is frequently praised for its quick absorption without greasiness, making it an excellent base for makeup. Some users with very dry skin or sensitivity to fragrance find it less effective or irritating, occasionally preferring a richer formula or a fragrance-free option.

- Liked: Intense hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Silky texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Plumping and radiance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. quantity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not rich enough (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Reformulation issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Silky Cream work for combination skin?

This moisturizer offers a moderate fit for combination skin because ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential hydration, though it lacks targeted ingredients to control shine in oily areas. To work best for this skin type, a product of this type needs effective oil-control, brightening, and soothing ingredients along with balanced hydration.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for combination skin?

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate make this cream a good fit for combination skin by providing essential hydration and keeping the skin soft. To work best for this skin type, a product of this type needs targeted ingredients for oil control, along with soothing agents and antioxidants.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### What does Squalane do for combination skin?

Squalane helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by locking in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin barrier and provides lightweight hydration that works well for both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Skin Health and Disease, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39355739/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

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

This moisturizer goes after your hydrating toner in the morning and after your treatment step in the evening. Combination skin needs a product of this type to include targeted ingredients for oil control on oily areas.

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

You can use this moisturizer alongside retinol by applying the retinol first and following it with the cream to help keep your skin soft and comfortable. This type of routine is unlikely to cause irritation due to the gentle formula, but combination skin also needs targeted ingredients for oil control.

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day, in both your morning and evening routines, to keep your combination skin hydrated and soft. Regular daily use of a moisturizing cream helps maintain skin moisture and barrier function.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

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

This cream is unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts on your combination skin because it has an excellent safety profile without harsh ingredients. However, because it lacks targeted ingredients for oil control, combination skin of this type needs lightweight formulas with oil-balancing ingredients.

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

You can use this moisturizing cream safely around the eyes and on your body because its gentle formula lacks harsh ingredients. It helps keep these areas hydrated and soft, though a product of this type needs lighter textures and targeted ingredients to properly care for thin or dry areas.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum). Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £11.90 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — £11.40 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — £29.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £14.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — £23.92 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £33.60 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01NC0ZQPD?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Betaine, Propanediol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Silica, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetearyl Glucoside, Squalane, Parfum, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Chlorphenesin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dimethiconol, Polysorbate 60, Tocopherol, Disodium Edta, Butylene Glycol, Sorbitan Isostearate, Kalanchoe Pinnata Leaf Extract, Marrubium Vulgare Extract, Citric Acid, Phenethyl Alcohol, Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Lapsana Communis Stem Extract Flower Leaf, Maris Sal Sea Salt Sel Marin, Callicarpa Japonica Fruit Extract
## 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/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clarins/hydra-essentiel-silky-cream/for/combination-skin