# NIVEA Soft Moisturizing Cream for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/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 Kingdom.

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

Works for dry sensitive skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your dry and sensitive skin, as glycerin and jojoba seed oil provide essential hydration and barrier support. Tocopheryl acetate further aids in skin conditioning and protection.
- This formula is generally safe for your dry skin, with soothing ingredients like jojoba seed oil and tocopheryl acetate minimizing irritation risks.
- The product's safety profile is excellent, featuring a gentle formulation free from harsh irritants and beneficial for sensitive skin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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. 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

### How well does Nivea Soft work for dry sensitive skin?

Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream works moderately well for dry sensitive skin, providing essential hydration and barrier support through glycerin and jojoba seed oil. Because other products fit this skin type better, a moisturizer for dry sensitive skin needs highly effective, soothing ingredients that deliver deep hydration and nourishment without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin and jojoba seed oil make this cream a fit by providing essential hydration and barrier support for dry skin. Tocopheryl acetate further helps condition and protect the skin while minimizing irritation risks. To fit dry sensitive skin best, a product of this type needs highly effective, soothing ingredients and deep moisturizers that offer significant hydration and nourishment without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps dry sensitive skin by drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it there, making the skin soft and smooth. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving how well the skin holds onto water. This type of skin needs ingredients that boost hydration and repair the barrier without causing stinging.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

### What does Mineral Oil do for dry sensitive skin?

Mineral oil helps keep dry sensitive skin soft and calm by locking in moisture and protecting the outer barrier. Regular use may reduce dryness and improve skin comfort, though products for this skin type typically need extra soothing and hydrating ingredients to fully calm irritation.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22994201/), [International Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24320105/)

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

This cream goes at the end of your evening routine as a moisturizer, and works well alongside a gentle cleanser and soothing toner. Because your skin is dry and sensitive, a product of this type needs rich hydrating ingredients like glycerin and barrier-supporting oils to keep your skin soft and calm.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying your retinol first, allowing it to absorb, and then following with the cream to help keep your dry, sensitive skin comfortable and hydrated. This moisturizer is unlikely to cause irritation and may help support your skin barrier when using stronger treatments. A product of this type for dry, sensitive skin needs extra barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides and soothing agents.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing cream daily as part of your morning and evening routine to help keep your dry skin soft and comfortable. Regular application supports hydration and helps maintain your skin barrier.
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 dry sensitive skin?

This cream may cause acne breakouts, as moderate complaints are reported by reviewers. Dry sensitive skin needs a lightweight, non-greasy formula with barrier-repairing ingredients that hydrate without clogging pores.

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

You can use this cream on your body and around your eyes, as its gentle formula provides safe hydration and conditioning for these areas. Because skin is thinner around the eyes and varies in thickness across the body, a moisturizer for this skin needs rich hydrating ingredients like glycerin and soothing plant oils to maintain comfort without irritation.
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 dry sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.74 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £11.40 at Amazon
- [L'Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/l-occitane/immortelle-divine-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £61.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Real Barrier Mild Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/real-barrier/mild-sun-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £19.01 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £9.87 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00QQ8SN0O?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £2.90 (https://www.notino.co.uk/nivea/soft-fresh-hydrating-cream/p-387680/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 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/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin