# Obagi Rebalance Skin Barrier Recovery Cream for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-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: [Obagi](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/obagi)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, 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 skin; a few moisturizers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your dry skin, this cream effectively addresses dryness and flakiness with ceramides and squalane, which are key components for enhancing barrier resilience and providing essential emollient actions.
- Niacinamide and glycerin further support skin barrier repair and hydration, ensuring comprehensive nourishment for your skin.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin): High (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Ceramide Np, Niacinamide, Squalane, Phytosphingosine, Allantoin

## What the research says

- Topical application of a vitamin C-squalene bioconjugate significantly increased epidermal thickness, type III collagen production, and glycosaminoglycans production in human skin explants compared to free vitamin C and vitamin C-palmitate. ([Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of an emulsion containing a complete mixture of ceramides III, IIIB, VI, phytosphingosine, cholesterol, and linoleic acid significantly accelerated barrier recovery after SLS damage and improved skin hydration after acetone treatment in human volunteers compared to an emulsion containing only two types of ceramides. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12482041/))
- Phytosphingosine demonstrates anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activity with excellent clinical results in acne vulgaris. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18489348/))
- Phytosphingosine increased filaggrin metabolism and skin hydration in human skin by stimulating filaggrin biosynthesis and degradation leading to natural moisturizing factor formation. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28936777/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))

## What reviewers say

This moisturizer is highly rated for its ability to soothe and repair compromised skin barriers, especially after treatments like chemical peels or retinoid use. Users frequently report significant improvements in hydration and a reduction in redness and irritation, making it a good choice for dry or post-procedure skin. Some users find it too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin, and the price point is considered moderate to high by many.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothes irritated skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great post-procedure (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight, non-greasy (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Expensive price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Dispenser issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Heavy for oily skin (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and work your way up to daily use.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner and before your sunscreen in the morning. At night, use it as the final step after your serum.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep your dry skin happy.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra hydration. This is great for soothing dry and flaky areas .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Obagi Rebalance Cream a great fit for dry skin?

Obagi Rebalance Skin Barrier Recovery Cream is a great fit because it addresses dryness and flakiness with ceramides and squalane to help strengthen your skin barrier. Glycerin and niacinamide further support hydration and barrier repair, while the formula avoids harsh ingredients to keep your skin calm and comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This cream is a great fit for dry skin because it features ceramides and squalane, which help lock in moisture and smooth out flakiness. Niacinamide and glycerin also support skin barrier repair to keep your skin soft and deeply hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What do Ceramides do for dry skin?

Ceramides help strengthen your skin barrier and lock in moisture to keep dry skin feeling soft and smooth. By restoring essential lipids, they may also reduce water loss and soothe irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34921679/), [Dermatologic Therapy, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31585489/)

### What does Niacinamide do for dry skin?

Niacinamide helps dry skin by strengthening the skin barrier, increasing hydration, and reducing water loss. It supports ceramide production and helps keep the surface smooth and calm. This ingredient tends to be very well tolerated and is unlikely to irritate dry skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42108609/)

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

This cream goes toward the end of your morning and evening routines as your moisturizer. Regular use helps keep dry skin soft, smooth, and well-hydrated.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Yes, you can use this cream with retinol by applying the cream first to help protect your dry skin and reduce potential irritation. Using a barrier-enhancing moisturizer alongside retinol is unlikely to cause issues and may help your skin tolerate active treatments much better.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a great fit for your dry skin and helps keep it soft and comfortable when used daily as part of your morning and evening routine. Regular application supports lasting hydration and helps repair the 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 skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and features nourishing components like squalane and ceramides that help keep skin calm and balanced. Reviewers confirm it feels comfortable, and it is designed to restore moisture without heaviness.
Sources: [Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33037252/)

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

You can use this cream safely around the eyes and on the body because it is gentle and deeply moisturizing. It helps soothe dry skin and is unlikely to cause irritation.

### Is this cream 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 skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-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-skin) — Superior fit — £11.40 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £12.21 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £11.49 at Amazon
- SPF: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £22.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Squalane, Glycol Palmitate, Coconut Alkanes, Niacinamide, Hexyldecanol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Maltodextrin, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Phytosphingosine, Hydrolyzed Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Tetraselmis Suecica Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Punica Granatum Pericarp Extract, Bisabolol, Arginine, Allantoin, Tocopherol, Cholesterol, Avena Sativa Kernel Flour Oat Kernel Flour, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Pentylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Stearic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid
## 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/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/obagi/rebalance-skin-barrier-recovery-cream/for/dry-skin