Equate Beauty Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer

A basic, fragrance-free moisturizer formulated with Petrolatum, Glycerin, and Soy Sterols to provide deep hydration and barrier protection.

Performance Rating: 4.2

This moisturizer features a robust combination of humectants (Glycerin) to draw moisture in, and effective occlusives (Petrolatum, Dimethicone) to lock it in. The addition of Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols is excellent for supporting and repairing the skin barrier. The texture is enhanced by Cyclomethicone, which provides a silky feel. However, ingredients like Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Isopropyl Isostearate can be highly comedogenic, meaning this product performs wonderfully for dry skin but may cause congestion or breakouts for oily or acne-prone skin types.

Safety Rating: 4.5

The formula scores very high on safety as it is fragrance-free and appears to be free of common sensitizing dyes. It utilizes Chlorphenesin as a preservative, which is generally well-tolerated. The ingredients are standard, well-studied compounds with low risk of irritation or toxicity. The primary ‘safety’ concern is the potential for clogging pores (comedogenicity), but from a toxicological and sensitivity standpoint, it is very gentle.

Final Rating: 4.3

This is a solid, no-nonsense moisturizer ideal for sensitive or dry skin. It avoids common irritants like fragrance while providing a strong moisturizing system through the synergy of Glycerin, Petrolatum, and Soy Sterols. It lacks ‘active’ anti-aging ingredients (like retinoids or peptides), focusing instead on pure hydration and barrier maintenance. While excellent for dry skin, those prone to acne should approach with caution due to the presence of potential pore-cloggers.

Verdict

This formulation represents a classic, no-nonsense approach to skincare, prioritizing barrier repair and moisture retention over flashy active ingredients or botanical extracts. At its core, the product relies on the proven synergy between Glycerin, a powerful humectant that draws water into the skin, and heavy-duty occlusives like Petrolatum and Dimethicone. This combination ensures that once hydration is introduced, it is locked in tightly, preventing transepidermal water loss effectively.

The inclusion of Petrolatum, often considered the gold standard of occlusives, indicates a formula designed to physically seal the skin surface. While some consumers shy away from petrolatum due to texture concerns, its efficacy in stopping water evaporation is unmatched, making this product a heavy hitter for dryness. To ensure the product remains cosmetically elegant, the formulators included Cyclomethicone and Dimethicone. These silicones provide specific ‘slip,’ allowing the product to glide over the skin without dragging, creating a finish that feels velvety rather than sticky or waxy.

A standout feature of this ingredient list is the inclusion of Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols. These plant-derived lipids function similarly to the cholesterol naturally found in human skin, playing a crucial role in maintaining structural integrity. By replenishing these lipids, the moisturizer helps to soothe and fortify a compromised skin barrier, elevating it beyond a simple generic cream to a reparative treatment.

However, users should note the presence of Ethylhexyl Palmitate, a fatty acid ester used as an emollient and texture enhancer. While it makes the skin feel smooth, it is known to be potentially comedogenic, meaning it may clog pores in individuals prone to congestion or acne. Consequently, while the formula is non-irritating and free of fragrance, it might be risky for those battling breakouts.

Ultimately, this is a utilitarian product. It will not exfoliate or provide potent anti-aging benefits on its own, but it excels as a protective blanket for the face. It is an ideal choice for those suffering from eczema, winter dryness, or irritation from other strong treatments like retinoids.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvents / 溶剂

🧪 WATER / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The base carrier for the formulation.

📁 Moisturizers & Emollients / 保湿剂与柔润剂

🧪 GLYCERIN / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Attracts moisture to the skin.

🧪 ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE / 棕榈酸乙基己酯

Purpose: Emollient

Concerns: Can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) for some skin types.

Notes: Provides a dry-slip feel similar to silicone.

🧪 DIMETHICONE / 聚二甲基硅氧烷

Purpose: Occlusive/Emollient

Concerns: Traps debris if skin is not cleaned properly.

Notes: A silicone that forms a barrier to prevent moisture loss.

🧪 PETROLATUM / 矿脂 (凡士林)

Purpose: Occlusive

Concerns: Greasy texture; derived from petroleum (highly refined).

Notes: One of the most effective ingredients for sealing in moisture.

🧪 CYCLOMETHICONE / 环聚二甲基硅氧烷

Purpose: Emollient/Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: A volatile silicone that evaporates quickly, leaving a silky feel without greasiness.

🧪 GLYCINE SOJA (SOYBEAN) STEROLS / 野大豆甾醇类

Purpose: Skin-Conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: Helps replenish the skin barrier.

🧪 ISOPROPYL ISOSTEARATE / 异硬脂酸异丙酯

Purpose: Emollient/Binder

Concerns: Potential comedogenicity.

Notes: Improves spreadability.

🧪 C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE / C12-15 醇苯甲酸酯

Purpose: Emollient

Concerns: None

Notes: Provides a light conditioning feel and reduces greasiness.

📁 Emulsifiers & Texture Enhancers / 乳化剂与质地调节剂

🧪 CETYL ALCOHOL / 鲸蜡醇

Purpose: Emollient/Emulsifier

Concerns: Low risk of irritation.

Notes: A fatty alcohol that stabilizes the emulsion and adds body.

🧪 PEG-10 SOY STEROL / PEG-10 大豆甾醇

Purpose: Surfactant/Emulsifier

Concerns: PEG compounds can contain trace impurities (1,4-dioxane) if not purified.

Notes: Helps mix oil and water.

🧪 GLYCERYL STEARATE / 甘油硬脂酸酯

Purpose: Emulsifier

Concerns: None

Notes: Softens and smooths the skin.

🧪 PEG-100 STEARATE / PEG-100 硬脂酸酯

Purpose: Emulsifier

Concerns: PEG compounds concern regarding impurities.

Notes: Often used in conjunction with Glyceryl Stearate.

🧪 CARBOMER / 卡波姆

Purpose: Viscosity Controlling/Thickener

Concerns: None

Notes: Creates a gel-like texture.

📁 Preservatives & Stabilizers / 防腐剂与稳定剂

🧪 TETRASODIUM EDTA / 乙二胺四乙酸四钠

Purpose: Chelating Agent

Concerns: None

Notes: Binds to metal ions to prevent spoilage.

🧪 SODIUM HYDROXIDE / 氢氧化钠

Purpose: pH Adjuster

Concerns: Irritant in high concentrations (safe in pH-balanced formulations).

Notes: Used to neutralize the Carbomer to thicken the product.

🧪 CHLORPHENESIN / 氯苯甘醚

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: Rare risk of irritation for sensitive skin.

Notes: Prevents bacterial and fungal growth.