Eucerin Original Healing Rich Cream

A heavy-duty occlusive moisturizer featuring Petrolatum and Lanolin Alcohol designed to seal in moisture for severely dry or compromised skin.

Performance Rating: 4.4

This is a heavy-duty, occlusive-rich formula designed for extremely dry or compromised skin. With Petrolatum and Mineral Oil as primary ingredients, it creates an exceptionally strong barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Lanolin Alcohol provides deep emollience, and Ceresin adds structure. While highly effective for moisture retention, the formula lacks humectants (like glycerin) to actively attract hydration, relying entirely on the water content and the seal provided by the oils/waxes. It will likely feel heavy or greasy but is excellent for rough patches, elbows, and heels.

Safety Rating: 4.3

The ingredients are generally considered safe and non-toxic. Petrolatum and Mineral Oil used in cosmetics are highly refined and non-comedogenic for body use. The formula is notably fragrance-free, significantly reducing the risk of irritation. However, Lanolin Alcohol is derived from sheep’s wool and is a known allergen for a subset of the population; those with wool allergies should avoid this product. Phenoxyethanol is a standard, safe preservative.

Final Rating: 4.3

This is a classic, no-nonsense protective moisturizer. It excels at barrier repair and sealing in moisture, making it ideal for conditions like eczema or severe dryness. Its simplicity is a strength, minimizing potential irritants, though the presence of Lanolin requires caution for those with specific allergies. It is less suitable for those seeking a lightweight, quick-absorbing lotion, but acts as a powerhouse for intense hydration needs.

Verdict

This product represents the gold standard of occlusive therapy. It eschews modern, lightweight humectants in favor of a robust, minimalist formula designed to create an impenetrable seal over the skin. The primary drivers here are Petrolatum and Mineral Oil. In the world of dermatology, Petrolatum remains the undisputed king of preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). By forming a hydrophobic barrier on the skin’s surface, it physically blocks water from evaporating, allowing the skin to rehydrate itself from within. This makes the product exceptionally suited for distinctively parched skin, rough patches, and conditions like xerosis or eczema. Supporting these hydrocarbons is Ceresin, a mineral wax that adds body and stiffness to the formula, ensuring it applies as a protective film rather than a watery lotion. However, the inclusion of Lanolin Alcohol provides a sophisticated edge to this heavy base. Lanolin is a cholesterol-rich emollient derived from sheep’s wool that mimics the lipid structure of human skin. This allows it to integrate into the skin’s barrier more effectively than synthetic oils, providing deep nourishment and softening rough texture. It turns a simple barrier cream into a repairing treatment. The preservation system utilizes Phenoxyethanol and Piroctone Olamine. The latter is particularly interesting; while it acts as a preservative here, it is well-known for its antifungal properties used in treating seborrheic dermatitis. This inclusion suggests the formula is mindful of the skin’s microbiome, potentially soothing irritation caused by fungal imbalances often found in damp or compromised skin folds. Users must be aware that this is not a cosmetically elegant formula. The texture will be thick, tacky, and greasy. It is not designed to absorb quickly so you can dress immediately; it is designed to sit on the skin and heal it. Consequently, it is best used as a night treatment or a spot treatment for problem areas like elbows, knees, and heels. Furthermore, while highly effective, this ingredient list comes with specific warnings. Lanolin is a common contact allergen, so those sensitive to wool must steer clear. Additionally, the high concentration of heavy occlusives makes this potentially comedogenic for those prone to body acne. In summary, this is a rescue ointment for skin in distress, offering uncompromised protection against the elements and dehydration.

Who Is This Product For?

Who Should Avoid This Product?

Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvents / 溶剂

🧪 Water / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The primary component that dissolves other ingredients.

📁 Moisturizers & Emollients / 保湿剂与柔润剂

🧪 Petrolatum / 矿脂

Purpose: Occlusive, Skin Protectant

Concerns: Greasy texture

Notes: One of the most effective ingredients for preventing transepidermal water loss.

🧪 Mineral Oil / 矿物油

Purpose: Emollient, Solvent

Concerns: Petroleum derived (often misunderstood)

Notes: A non-sensitizing oil that helps soften the skin.

🧪 Ceresin / 地蜡

Purpose: Viscosity Controlling, Stabilizer

Concerns: None

Notes: A mineral wax used to thicken the product and keep the oil and water phases stable.

🧪 Lanolin Alcohol / 羊毛脂醇

Purpose: Emollient, Emulsifier

Concerns: Potential allergen for those sensitive to wool

Notes: Derived from sheep’s wool; excellent at soothing dry, flaky skin.

📁 Preservatives / 防腐剂

🧪 Phenoxyethanol / 苯氧乙醇

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: Can be irritating to eyes in raw form

Notes: Prevents bacteria and fungi from growing in the product.

🧪 Piroctone Olamine / 吡罗克酮乙醇胺盐

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: None

Notes: Often used to replace parabens; helps extend shelf life.