Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Product Description
Product overview
A biomimetic moisturizer that replicates your skin's own natural hydration system. Formulated with 11 amino acids, dermal lipids, hyaluronic acid, urea, and ceramide precursors to deliver lightweight, non-greasy hydration that protects and strengthens the skin barrier. Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Biomimetic Hydration
Mimics your skin's own natural moisturizing factors with amino acids, fatty acids, and ceramide precursors for optimal hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBiomimetic Hydration
Mimics your skin's own natural moisturizing factors with amino acids, fatty acids, and ceramide precursors for optimal hydration.
Barrier Support
Dermal lipids including phospholipids, triglycerides, sterols, and sterol esters reinforce the skin's protective barrier.
11 Amino Acids
Comprehensive blend of arginine, glycine, alanine, serine, and seven more amino acids for deep, lasting comfort.
Non-Greasy Formula
Lightweight texture absorbs quickly, making it an excellent base under makeup or sunscreen without pilling.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Widely recommended as a pregnancy-safe moisturizer by dermatologists.
Contains polysorbate 60, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and linoleic acid which may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have diagnosed fungal acne.
Very low risk of clogging pores. Over 99% of users on review platforms report it does not cause breakouts.
Free of fragrance, parabens, alcohol, and common irritants. Accepted by the National Eczema Association for gentle formulation.
Can be safely layered with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and other actives. No conflicts with any The Ordinary products.
As with any new product, The Ordinary recommends performing a patch test before full application, especially for reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
A powerful humectant capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin for visible plumping and hydration.
- Function: Humectant, skin-plumping agent
- Research: Extensively studied for improving skin hydration and reducing the appearance of fine lines
- Delivery: Acts as an enhanced hydrating delivery system for other NMF ingredients
11 Amino Acids ComplexProven
Arginine, aspartic acid, glycine, alanine, serine, valine, isoleucine, proline, threonine, histidine, and phenylalanine. These are the primary building blocks of skin's natural moisturizing factors (about 40% of NMF).
- Function: Hydration, barrier repair, collagen support
- Research: Amino acids are the largest component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor system
- Benefit: Arginine in particular has film-forming properties and can reduce AHA irritation when combined
UreaProven
A natural component of skin's NMF (about 7%). At low concentrations, urea is a powerful humectant and mild keratolytic agent that improves barrier function beyond simple moisturization.
- Function: Humectant, mild exfoliant, barrier regulator
- Research: Shown to enhance antimicrobial peptide expression and improve skin barrier function
- Note: Used at a low, moisturizing concentration in this formula (not exfoliating strength)
Dermal Lipids ComplexProven
Includes phospholipids (lecithin), fatty acids (linoleic, oleic, palmitic, stearic), triglycerides (triolein), sterols (phytosteryl canola glycerides), and ceramide precursors.
- Function: Emollient, barrier repair, occlusive protection
- Research: Skin-identical lipids are essential for maintaining the stratum corneum's barrier integrity
- Benefit: Linoleic acid at 2.5% has shown a 25% reduction in small comedones in studies
Saccharides ComplexPromising
Trehalose, maltose, fructose, and glucose. Plant-derived natural moisturizing sugars that support dermal water density and surface hydration.
- Function: Humectant, water-binding, antioxidant (trehalose)
- Research: Trehalose in particular has been studied for its ability to protect skin cells from desiccation stress
Sodium PCA & PCAProven
Pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, a natural amino acid derivative that makes up about 12% of the skin's natural moisturizing factors. One of the most effective natural humectants.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioning
- Research: Naturally occurring in skin's NMF; highly effective at long-term hydration support
46 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glucose, Maltose, Fructose, Trehalose, Sodium PCA, PCA, Sodium Lactate, Urea, Allantoin, Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Lecithin, Triolein, Tocopherol, Carbomer, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Pentylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step in your skincare routine's "Seal" stage, after water-based serums and treatments. Use both AM and PM. Layer sunscreen on top in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Apply Serums
Start with clean skin. Apply any water-based serums or treatments first (e.g., niacinamide, hyaluronic acid serum, vitamin C).
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze a small amount onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way — you can always add more if needed.
Massage Into Skin
Gently massage all over your face and neck in upward motions until fully absorbed (about 30–60 seconds).
Follow With SPF (Morning)
In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This product does not contain SPF protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a simple, no-frills daily moisturizer
- You need a lightweight cream that works under makeup
- You're on a budget but want science-backed skincare
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe hydration
- You have sensitive skin or eczema-prone skin
- You want to layer this with active serums (retinol, vitamin C, acids)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a richer, heavier cream
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You want anti-aging actives built into your moisturizer
- You prefer a moisturizer with SPF included
- You want a luxurious, spa-like sensorial experience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight and non-greasy, but some oily skin types may find it slightly rich. The Beta Glucan gel version may be a better fit.
Provides solid hydration but very dry skin may need a richer cream on top. Consider layering with squalane oil or the PhytoCeramides version.
Ideal balance of hydration without heaviness. Absorbs well across different face zones without leaving oily T-zone shine.
Fragrance-free, free of common irritants, and accepted by the National Eczema Association. One of the safest options available.
Very low comedogenic rating (1/5) and non-greasy. However, not fungal acne safe due to polysorbate 60 and fatty acids.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSInstant Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels softer, smoother, and more comfortable right after application. The lightweight cream provides immediate relief from tightness and dryness.
95% noticed immediate softnessImproved Moisture Retention
Skin begins to hold hydration more effectively throughout the day. Dry patches diminish and skin texture starts to feel smoother and more uniform.
80% reported less dry patchesStronger Skin Barrier
With consistent use, the skin barrier becomes more resilient. Skin is less reactive to environmental stressors and better able to retain its own moisture.
70% noticed reduced sensitivityVisibly Healthier Complexion
Long-term use promotes smoother, more supple skin with improved elasticity. Fine dehydration lines appear diminished and overall skin quality improves.
65% saw reduced fine lines from dehydrationRatings by platform
35K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value at $6.70 (30ml) or $14 (100ml)
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive/eczema-prone skin
- Works beautifully as a makeup primer base
- Biomimetic formula with skin-identical ingredients
- No conflicts with any other skincare actives
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and widely available
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- May not be rich enough for very dry skin in harsh winters
- Slight tackiness before full absorption
- No SPF protection included
- Not safe for fungal acne-prone skin
- Basic, clinical packaging lacks premium feel
- Tube can be difficult to squeeze out final product
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESLightweight gel formula from the same NMF family. Uses beta glucan instead of traditional lipids, making it fungal acne safe. Better for oily skin but less emollient for dry types.
HA-focused gel-cream with a lighter texture. More widely available in drugstores but contains dimethicone (silicone) and lacks the comprehensive amino acid blend.
Ceramide-rich formula with MVE delivery technology for sustained release. Richer and better for very dry skin, but heavier and contains dimethicone. Lacks the amino acid NMF approach.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.
Squeeze tube (30ml & 100ml). Recyclable packaging.
Yes — the 30ml size is under 100ml and TSA/carry-on compliant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This moisturizer is widely considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are gentle humectants, emollients, and skin-identical compounds. Multiple dermatologists and pregnancy-safe skincare resources list NMF + HA as a recommended moisturizer. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This product is not considered safe for fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including polysorbate 60, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and linoleic acid. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary NMF + Beta Glucan (which is fungal acne safe) or the Malezia 5% Urea Moisturizer instead.
Yes! NMF + HA has no known conflicts with any skincare actives. It is designed to be the final "seal" step in your routine, applied after water-based serums and treatments. It works well layered over retinol, vitamin C (all forms), niacinamide, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), azelaic acid, peptides, and more. The Ordinary confirms there are no conflicts with any of their products.
NMF + HA is suitable for all skin types but works best for combination and sensitive skin. Its lightweight-yet-hydrating texture strikes an ideal balance. For oily skin, the Beta Glucan gel version may be preferable. For very dry skin, consider layering it with squalane oil or upgrading to the PhytoCeramides version, which has nearly double the emollients.
You'll feel immediate softness and hydration right after the first application. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, most users notice improved moisture retention and fewer dry patches. Meaningful barrier strengthening typically occurs at 4–6 weeks, and long-term improvements in skin resilience and reduced dehydration lines become visible after 8+ weeks of regular use.
Apply NMF + HA as the last step in your skincare routine (The Ordinary calls this the "Seal" stage). The order should be: cleanser, toner, water-based serums, oil-based treatments, then NMF + HA. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. It can be used both morning and evening.
NMF + HA has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. Over 99% of community reviewers report that it does not cause breakouts. It is oil-free and silicone-free. However, individual results may vary — patch testing is always recommended if you have highly acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 100ml tube offers significantly better value than the 30ml and typically lasts 3–4 months with daily AM/PM use.
Verdict: The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA is one of the best value moisturizers on the market. At just $0.14 per ml, it delivers a scientifically sound, biomimetic formula that genuinely mimics your skin's own hydration system — with 11 amino acids, hyaluronic acid, urea, dermal lipids, and ceramide precursors. It's fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe, eczema-association approved, and compatible with every active in your routine. The only drawbacks are that it may not be rich enough for very dry skin, it's not fungal acne safe, and it lacks SPF. For the price and the ingredient quality, this is an outstanding everyday moisturizer that earns its cult-favorite status.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 9 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Foam Boosting, Masking, Opacifying, Refatting, Viscosity Controlling
|
|