Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel Cream Fragrance Free

A fragrance-free, surface-hydrating formula packed with Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) like amino acids and hyaluronic acid to mimic the skin’s own barrier.

Performance Rating: 4.6

This formula is an exceptional hydrator designed to mimic the skin’s own Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF). It features a robust complex of 11 Amino Acids, Urea, Sodium PCA, and Sodium Hyaluronate, which work synergistically to replenish the skin barrier and maintain hydration. The inclusion of Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate provides a biomimetic emulsifying system that supports skin texture, while Dimethicone and Synthetic Beeswax offer a breathable occlusive layer to lock in moisture without feeling heavy. Allantoin adds significant soothing properties.

Safety Rating: 4.8

The safety profile is nearly perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is strictly fragrance-free, essential oil-free, and free of drying alcohols. The preservation system utilizes gentle glycols and Ethylhexylglycerin rather than potentially irritating parabens or formaldehyde releasers. While Dimethicone is used, it is generally recognized as safe and non-comedogenic for the vast majority of users.

Final Rating: 4.7

This is a masterclass in formulation for barrier support and hydration. By prioritizing ingredients naturally found in the skin over trendy actives, it serves as a highly effective, non-irritating staple for any skincare routine. Its lightweight texture combined with intense hydration capabilities makes it suitable for oily, combination, and dry skin types alike.

Verdict

This moisturizer is a scientifically grounded formulation designed to replicate the skin’s natural hydration mechanisms. Its primary strength lies in the high concentration of Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF), including a comprehensive blend of Amino Acids (such as Arginine, Glycine, and Serine), Urea, and Sodium PCA. These components are identical to those found naturally in the skin, making them incredibly effective at maintaining surface hydration and supporting a healthy skin barrier without the risk of irritation often caused by synthetic additives. Supplementing these are Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin, which act as powerful humectants to draw and retain water within the skin layers. The texture is engineered using Dimethicone and silicone crosspolymers, ensuring the product spreads easily and settles into a smooth, non-greasy finish. This makes it an excellent option for those who dislike the heavy, sticky feel of traditional creams. The inclusion of Allantoin adds a soothing element, further enhancing its suitability for reactive skin types. While it contains nourishing fatty acids derived from olive oil emulsifiers (Cetearyl Olivate), it lacks heavy plant oils, which is a benefit for congestion-prone skin but may be a drawback for extremely dry skin types that rely on rich occlusives. Ultimately, this is a utilitarian, highly effective product that prioritizes barrier health and hydration over luxury scents or textures.

Who Is This Product For?

Dehydrated skin seeking to replenish natural moisture.
Sensitive skin needing a fragrance-free formula.
Oily and Combination skin requiring a non-greasy finish.

Who Should Avoid This Product?

Extremely dry skin that prefers rich, heavy oils.
Individuals with a specific sensitivity to Silicones.

Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvent / 溶剂

🧪 Water / 水

Purpose: Solvent, dissolves other ingredients

Concerns: None

Notes: The base of the formulation.

📁 Moisturizers & Humectants / 保湿剂与吸湿剂

🧪 Glycerin / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant, attracts moisture to the skin

Concerns: None

Notes: A classic, highly effective moisturizer.

🧪 Sodium Hyaluronate / 透明质酸钠

Purpose: Humectant, hydration

Concerns: None

Notes: Salt form of Hyaluronic Acid; holds significant water.

🧪 Betaine / 甜菜碱

Purpose: Humectant, anti-irritant

Concerns: None

Notes: Controls water balance in skin.

🧪 Sodium PCA / 吡咯烷酮羧酸钠

Purpose: Skin-identical ingredient, humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Part of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF).

🧪 PCA / 吡咯烷酮羧酸

Purpose: Skin-identical ingredient, humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Component of NMF.

🧪 Sodium Lactate / 乳酸钠

Purpose: Buffering agent, humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Component of NMF.

🧪 Urea / 尿素

Purpose: Humectant, keratolytic (exfoliating) properties at high concentrations

Concerns: None

Notes: Component of NMF; excellent for dry skin.

🧪 Allantoin / 尿囊素

Purpose: Soothing, skin conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: Helps soothe irritated skin.

🧪 Pentylene Glycol / 戊二醇

Purpose: Solvent, humectant, antimicrobial

Concerns: Low risk of irritation

Notes: Helps stabilize the texture.

🧪 Fructose / 果糖

Purpose: Humectant, water-binding

Concerns: None

Notes: Sugar molecule.

🧪 Maltose / 麦芽糖

Purpose: Humectant, skin conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: Sugar molecule.

🧪 Trehalose / 海藻糖

Purpose: Humectant, skin protectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Sugar found in plants; helps retain moisture.

🧪 Glucose / 葡萄糖

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Simple sugar.