You might be familiar with Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream. It’s a holy grail skin care product for some HuffPost staff members and a tried-and-true classic. But although I’ve enjoyed using the Ultra Facial Cream before, I’m actually here to tell you about an under-the-radar sister product that’s cheaper (and, I would argue, better): Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer.
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Both moisturizers come from the same line, and look pretty similar at first glance: They’re both formulated to work for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and contain hydrating ingredients like squalane and glycerin (the Ultra Facial Cream has some additional ingredients like pro-ceramides and glacial glycoprotein). They’re also both well-reviewed, though the Ultra Facial Cream definitely has more buzz. But there are a few noteworthy differences that make the Ultra Facial Moisturizer my personal favorite.
First, I find the formula of the Moisturizer to be much more lightweight and thinner than the Cream. This isn’t to say that the Moisturizer doesn’t still deliver powerful results — I can vouch for the brand’s all-day hydration claim. However, my combination skin loves the gel- or lotion-like feel of the Moisturizer as opposed to the richer Cream, because I find that it absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel heavy. Both my dry patches and oily T-zone are satisfied. Kiehl’s notes on Amazon in their Q&A section that the Moisturizer is better-suited for oilier skin types.
I also prefer the packaging of the Moisturizer, which comes in a squeeze bottle rather than the Cream’s tub. I don’t know about you, but I hate the sensation of digging my fingers into a vat of goo to get the product out. A bottle that lets me better control the amount I extract (and keeps it from getting under my fingernails) is a win in my books. I will concede that it’s less convenient for traveling if you buy the bigger size bottle I own, but Kiehl’s does sell mini 2.5-ounce bottles.
Plus, I’ll let you in on a not-so-secret secret: The Moisturizer is way cheaper than the Cream for the same amount of product. 4.2 ounces of the Moisturizer is $42, while a 4.2-ounce tub of the Cream is $70. Yes, $42 is still on the pricier side for a moisturizer, but a little goes a long way, and I’d even argue that I don’t use much more of the Moisturizer per application than I would the Cream. One bottle lasts me months.
Reviewers are also sold on the Ultra Facial Moisturizer, noting that it’s a great year-round option, works well under powder foundations and doesn’t have a greasy feel. One reviewer wrote, “My coworker looked at my forehead and asked me if I had done any fancy Korean skin treatment. I told her it was just the smoothing effect of the moisturizer.”
Another reviewer said, “This lotion is my favorite! I’ve been using it for years.” They added, “It absorbs well and gives your skin a healthy glow (NOT a shiny sweaty look).”
Whether you’re an Ultra Facial Cream devotee who wants something more lightweight or less messy to apply, or you’re just looking for your next favorite moisturizer, don’t overlook this hidden gem. Below, check out some more glowing reviews for why the Ultra Facial Moisturizer is worth the buy.
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“I get regular compliments on my skin at 85 years old! I have used this moisturizer for years. And it gives a glow that is the reason for the comments. It has kept my skin soft and glistening!” — Sallie Ann Hart
“I received my first bottle as a gift. I loved it because I have super sensitive, eczema prone skin. Literally everything irritates my face. BUT this product has already made a dramatic improvement in the appearance of my skin. I still have breakouts from every product I use but at least this moisturizer has made my face look smoother overall. I have struggled since puberty and I’ve never had what you call good skin. I’m 50 now and I’m just happy to finally find a much needed moisturizer for my aging skin. All the expensive TOP NAME products have been major disappointments. They’re too harsh and contain too many irritating chemicals.” — Kym D
“I bought this to use on my tretinoin nights and I find myself going for it in the AM and on non-tretinoin nights. I love how it does not have any fragrance or essential oils in the formula. It’s very rich and moisturizing without feeling heavy on your skin. It’s like my skin just soaks it in. Will definitely continue using it in the winter months!” — Amazon Customer
“honestly this has worked for me so well that i don’t have to think about other options. i like all of kiehls products. if you are looking for a basic clean and effective moisturizer, this is it.” — Armando Eleazar Estrada
“I use this as my everyday moisturizer all year round. I have used many other moisturizers and this one has worked the best for me. This is the only moisturizer that has brought more life to complexion and has evened out my skin tone. My skin is hydrated and soft.” — Maria Brown
“Great everyday moisturizer. I love that this makes my skin feel moisturized and refreshed. I love that it’s not heavy and doesn’t leave a sticky residue on my face. I have been using this product for years, and I’m still very happy!” — Liz Force
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The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.
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