Creams
Typically used at routine step 7.
A cream is the step that keeps everything underneath it from evaporating. Formulas combine emollients that soften, humectants that hold water, and occlusives that slow water loss from the surface. The right weight depends on your skin and the season rather than on price: a heavy cream on oily skin in summer can feel congesting, while a gel on dry winter skin will not do enough to support barrier recovery.
Products
No products published for this type yet
We only publish a product once it has been researched and verified.
How we research creams
Nothing is published here yet. Every entry is compiled from manufacturer ingredient disclosures, published cosmetic science literature and UK retailer listings. We do not run clinical trials, and we do not publish a product until its formulation details have been checked against a source we can cite.
- Formulation: INCI lists, key actives, fragrance and alcohol status where the brand discloses them.
- Evidence: what the published research suggests for the key ingredients, and what it does not establish.
- UK availability: retailer listings and prices, with the date each was last checked. Where a price is not recent enough to quote, we say “check latest price” instead of guessing.
Results from cosmetic products are formulation-dependent and vary between people. Read our review methodology, browse the ingredient explainers or compare options in the comparison tool.
Choosing creams
- Barrier-supporting ingredients such as ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids matter more than richness alone.
- Apply to slightly damp skin so there is water for the cream to seal in.
- Adjust weight seasonally instead of buying a single cream for the whole year.
For a full step-by-step order for your skin type, see the routine guides. To narrow by skin type and concern, use the product finder, or browse every step on the product types index. Scoring is explained in our review methodology.