++++
[ DemythSkin Verdict ]
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane
MoisturizerHydration, barrier repair
Efficacy
Strong
4.1 / 5.0
Safety
Safe
4.5 / 5.0
System Verdict
Solid mid-range moisturizer with strong barrier support but dragged down by heavy silicones and low active concentrations. Efficacy score of 4.2 reflects excellent humectants (Glycerin #2) and emollients (Squalane #4 at ~4.5%) plus pro-ceramides (Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine low on list, likely <1%) for barrier repair, but Dimethicone #3 provides temporary occlusion without true repair, and trace Salicylic Acid (#18+) adds no meaningful exfoliation; no pH issues noted as it's a cream.
Active Ingredients Detected
S Tier: Gold StandardsHigh Clinical Proof | Skin-Transformative
Salicylic Acid
A Tier: Good BasicsProven Results
GlycerinDimethiconeSqualanePseudoalteromonas Ferment ExtractTocopherol
B Tier: Supporting IngredientsPromising Ingredients
Hydroxypalmitoyl SphinganineOryza Sativa Bran Oil / Rice Bran Oil
D Tier: Potential IrritantsBe Cautious
Olea Europaea Fruit Oil/Olive Fruit Oil
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DemythSkin is an independent ingredient analyzer. Scores are computed by a deterministic rubric from published clinical evidence — no brand pays for a score.