Overview

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream 1.7oz is a nourishing moisturizer designed specifically for dry, sensitive skin. This barrier cream helps calm redness and offers long-lasting hydration to strengthen the skin's natural defense. Its fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula delivers intense moisture without feeling heavy, making it a perfect option for those in need of soothing hydration. Users often appreciate how the cream leaves the skin feeling breathable and refreshed, without the risk of clogging pores.

Key Ingredients & Benefits

This hydrating moisturizer is packed with powerful ingredients like squalane and avocado oil, both of which work together to lock in moisture and enhance the skin's natural barrier. Cica (Centella Asiatica) is another standout ingredient, known for its anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and heal irritated skin. Additionally, the formula is free of parabens, making it suitable for daily use, even on the most sensitive skin. It’s lightweight, making it ideal for those seeking hydration without the heavy feel of traditional creams.

Best For

This barrier cream is an excellent choice for people with dry, sensitive, or irritated skin, especially those struggling with redness or compromised skin barriers. It’s especially beneficial for those looking for a gentle yet effective product that provides deep hydration without causing breakouts. Its fast-absorbing nature makes it an ideal option for individuals who prefer a moisturizer that doesn’t leave behind a greasy residue. If you're seeking a soothing cream to restore your skin's balance, this one is perfect for your daily routine.

User Feedback

Users have consistently praised this hydrating moisturizer for its ability to calm irritated skin and reduce redness without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Many appreciate its quick absorption, with several mentioning how it leaves the skin soft and non-greasy. Some users have also highlighted its effectiveness after sun exposure or following skin treatments, noting that it provides a soothing layer of relief. However, a few users wished for a stronger scent, as the fragrance-free formula may not suit everyone’s preferences.

Pros

  • This cream is highly praised for soothing redness and calming irritated skin.
  • Users with dry, sensitive skin find it deeply moisturizing without feeling greasy.
  • The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula makes it ideal for daily use under makeup.
  • It’s effective for post-sun care, helping to hydrate and repair sun-damaged skin.
  • Many users love how quickly it absorbs, leaving skin soft and hydrated without residue.
  • The fragrance-free formula is perfect for those with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivities.

Cons

  • Some users find it a bit too thick for use in hot or humid climates.
  • A few reviewers noted it doesn’t provide instant relief for severe skin irritation.
  • Not ideal for those seeking a more complex skincare routine with active ingredients.
  • People with oily skin may feel it’s slightly too heavy for their needs.
  • The product's hydrating effect is not long-lasting for those with very dry skin.
  • A small number of users mentioned it took time to see visible improvements in redness.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple languages and platforms, we found that Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream 1.7oz has garnered generally positive feedback, with strengths in hydration, soothing properties, and gentle texture. Spam, bot, incentivized, and exaggerated reviews were filtered out to ensure only authentic, high-quality feedback informed the scores. While the product excels in calming redness and offering relief to sensitive skin, some users mentioned minor concerns regarding fragrance and price. Below are the key rating categories based on real user experiences from diverse sources.

Hydration Effectiveness
93%
Many users rave about the intense hydration this cream provides. It deeply moisturizes dry, sensitive skin without feeling greasy, leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed. Reviewers mention that it delivers lasting moisture throughout the day, even in harsh conditions like winter or air-conditioned environments.
Some users note that while the cream is hydrating, it doesn't provide enough moisture for extremely dry or flaky skin, especially during colder months. A few mentioned that they had to reapply throughout the day for continued hydration.
Soothing & Redness Relief
89%
This product is highly praised for its ability to calm redness and irritation. Users with sensitive skin have reported significant improvements in the appearance of redness, especially around the cheeks or nose. The soothing effect is particularly appreciated by those with rosacea or post-treatment irritation.
While effective for many, a small group of users felt that it didn't fully alleviate redness, particularly in cases of more severe irritation or inflammation. Some mentioned that the relief was temporary, and they needed other treatments alongside it.
Absorption & Texture
91%
The fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture is one of the standout features. It doesn’t leave a heavy residue, making it perfect for daily use, especially under makeup. Many reviewers appreciate how quickly it sinks into the skin, allowing for easy layering with other products or sunscreen.
Some users found that the cream left a slight tacky or sticky feel for a few minutes after application, which might not be ideal for those who prefer a completely matte finish. A few also felt that it took a bit longer to absorb in the winter months.
Skin Compatibility
94%
This cream is considered extremely gentle on sensitive skin. It works well for users with eczema, rosacea, and other skin conditions, offering relief without irritation. The lightweight, fragrance-free formula ensures it doesn't clog pores or trigger breakouts.
While generally well-received, some users with extremely sensitive skin or allergies experienced mild irritation. A few reviewers mentioned they had to stop using it after noticing redness or slight bumps after prolonged use.
Value for Money
80%
20%
The product’s effectiveness in calming redness, providing hydration, and repairing the skin barrier justifies the price for many users. The 1.7oz size lasts quite a while with daily use, making it a reasonable investment for long-term skincare routines.
Several customers felt that the product is overpriced compared to similar moisturizers with comparable ingredients. Some noted that while it works well, they could find more affordable alternatives that offered similar benefits.
Scent/Fragrance
75%
25%
The fragrance-free formula is a big plus for those sensitive to scents or who prefer unscented skincare products. It's ideal for users who avoid artificial fragrances due to irritation or allergies.
While the lack of fragrance is great for some, others miss a light, pleasant scent in their skincare routine. A few users found the formula to have a mild, natural smell that wasn’t entirely pleasant.
Packaging & Dispensing
88%
The packaging is sleek and easy to use, with a user-friendly design that dispenses the right amount of product each time. The sturdy jar ensures the cream stays fresh and protected from contamination.
Some users found the jar packaging less hygienic, as it requires dipping fingers in each time. A few expressed concern that the jar might not be the most travel-friendly option compared to pump dispensers or tubes.
Long-Term Results
85%
Long-term users report gradual improvements in skin texture and overall hydration, with many saying their skin feels healthier and more resilient after consistent use. It’s particularly effective as a barrier cream for those dealing with daily environmental stressors.
A few users felt that the product’s long-term results were less noticeable than anticipated. They mentioned that while the cream was soothing in the short-term, it didn't provide dramatic, lasting improvements in their skin’s condition over time.
Post-Sun Care Effectiveness
92%
Many users find this cream particularly helpful for calming and soothing skin after sun exposure. It reduces inflammation and provides much-needed hydration, making it a go-to product for sunburn relief.
A few users felt that while it helped with mild sunburns, it wasn’t strong enough for severe cases. Some reported that it didn’t offer the instant cooling relief they were looking for after prolonged sun exposure.
Ingredient Quality
95%
The high-quality ingredients, including squalane, avocado oil, and Cica, are frequently praised by users. These ingredients are known for their hydrating, soothing, and skin barrier-restoring properties, which have contributed to the product’s positive reception among skincare enthusiasts.
While most users appreciate the ingredients, some wished for a few more actives like peptides or antioxidants to enhance the cream’s anti-aging benefits. A small group mentioned that they prefer more botanical-based formulations over this product's current ingredient list.
Application Usability
90%
The cream’s smooth texture makes it easy to apply and spread across the face, even in areas with dry patches. Its lightweight feel ensures that it doesn’t feel heavy or clog pores, making it a great daily option.
Some users found the texture a little too thick for hot or humid climates. A few mentioned that it required more massaging into the skin than they would have preferred, especially in the summer months.
Greasy or Heavy Feel
90%
This product is highly praised for its non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula. It provides intensive hydration without leaving any oily residue, which makes it perfect for people who don’t want a heavy or sticky feel.
Despite its fast absorption, some users still felt that it left a slight residue on their skin. A few mentioned that the cream was too heavy for their skin type, particularly those with oilier or combination skin.

Suitable for:

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream 1.7oz is ideal for individuals with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin who are looking for a gentle yet effective moisturizer. People suffering from redness or irritation will benefit from its calming and soothing properties, as users have praised its ability to reduce inflammation and provide long-lasting hydration. Those with skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea will find this cream especially helpful due to its paraben-free, lightweight formula, which provides a non-greasy, fast-absorbing application. Additionally, it is great for those in need of post-sun or post-treatment care, as it aids in healing and soothing the skin after exposure to the elements or skin procedures.

Not suitable for:

While this cream is beneficial for sensitive and dry skin, it may not be the best fit for people with oily or combination skin who prefer a more mattifying formula. Some users have reported that it can leave a slightly tacky or sticky residue, especially in hot or humid conditions, which may feel uncomfortable for those who dislike this texture. Additionally, those seeking an intense fragrance or looking for more active ingredients, such as antioxidants or peptides, might find this product lacking in terms of long-term skin benefits beyond hydration and soothing. Furthermore, individuals who expect instant relief for severe sunburns or irritation might find the cream’s effects somewhat gradual and less powerful than they anticipated.

Specifications

  • Size: The product comes in a 1.7oz (50mL) container.
  • Skin Type: This cream is ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
  • Key Ingredients: Contains squalane, avocado oil, and Cica (Centella Asiatica) to help hydrate, soothe, and repair the skin.
  • Formula: The cream is paraben-free and fragrance-free.
  • Texture: This product has a fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture that leaves the skin soft and hydrated.
  • Hydration: Provides intensive hydration to dry and sensitive skin without feeling heavy.
  • Use Case: Ideal for use on compromised skin barriers, redness, or irritation.
  • Fragrance: The formula is fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Absorption: Absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky residue.
  • Suitability: Suitable for daily use as part of a skincare routine for sensitive skin.
  • Skin Healing: Cica (Centella Asiatica) helps to reduce inflammation and supports skin healing.
  • Allergen-Free: The product is free from parabens, making it a gentle choice for sensitive skin.
  • Application: Can be applied to both the face and neck for hydration and skin barrier repair.
  • Post-Treatment Care: Recommended for use after sun exposure or cosmetic treatments to soothe and restore moisture.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the formula's integrity.
  • Packaging: Packaged in a 1.7oz (50mL) jar for easy application and controlled dispensing.
  • Non-Comedogenic: This product is designed not to clog pores, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
  • Skin Benefits: Helps reduce redness and irritation, promoting a balanced and calm skin appearance.

FAQ

For best results, apply this cream as the final step in your evening skincare routine after cleansing and toning. Gently massage it into your face and neck, focusing on dry or irritated areas. It can be used daily to help restore moisture and repair the skin barrier.

Yes, this cream is specifically formulated for sensitive skin. It is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and contains soothing ingredients like squalane, avocado oil, and Cica (Centella Asiatica), making it a gentle option for those prone to irritation or redness.

Absolutely! This barrier cream has a fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture, making it ideal for use under makeup. It provides long-lasting hydration without leaving a heavy or shiny finish, so your makeup will apply smoothly on top.

No, Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream does not contain SPF. If you are looking for sun protection, it's recommended to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen on top of this moisturizer during the day.

Yes, many users find that this cream effectively soothes redness and helps calm irritated skin. The inclusion of Cica (Centella Asiatica) supports skin healing and reduces inflammation, making it ideal for those with compromised skin barriers.

The hydration provided by this cream is long-lasting, and most users report feeling moisturized throughout the day. However, if you have extremely dry skin, you might need to reapply it once or twice for continuous hydration.

While this product is designed for dry and sensitive skin, many people with oily or acne-prone skin have found it helpful, especially for calming irritation and providing lightweight hydration. If you’re concerned about breakouts, start by applying a small amount to see how your skin reacts.

No, this product absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy residue. It has a breathable, lightweight texture that hydrates without weighing down the skin, making it ideal for those who prefer a non-greasy finish.

Yes, many users have found this cream effective for post-sun or post-treatment care. Its soothing ingredients help restore moisture and calm the skin, making it a good choice for sensitive, sun-exposed, or recently treated skin.

To maintain the effectiveness of this product, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always ensure the cap is tightly closed to avoid contamination and preserve the integrity of the ingredients.