If your skin has ever felt parched, flaky, or just plain tired, you’ve probably searched high and low for a cream that works. Enter: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream — the unsung hero of skincare routines worldwide.
Loved by dermatologists, celebrities, makeup artists, and skincare novices alike, this cream has earned cult status for one simple reason: it works.
But let’s go deeper. What’s in it? How exactly do you use it for maximum results? Can it fit into your routine if your skin is oily, sensitive, or acne-prone?
Grab your favorite face cloth and let’s dive into everything you need to know about using Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream like a pro.
What Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream?
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is a lightweight, non-greasy daily moisturizer designed to deliver 24-hour hydration. It’s formulated with skin-strengthening ingredients like squalane and glacial glycoprotein, which help the skin retain moisture in even the driest conditions.
Whether you’re living through a harsh winter or spending hours in an air-conditioned office, this cream is built to balance and protect your skin barrier.
Key Ingredients and Why They Matter
Let’s break down the heavy hitters:
1. Squalane
Derived from olives.
Mimics your skin’s natural oils.
Deeply moisturizing without clogging pores.
2. Glacial Glycoprotein
Originally sourced from sea glaciers.
Helps protect and hydrate even in extreme conditions.
3. Glycerin
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin.
Keeps your face feeling plump and fresh.
4. Urea
Gently exfoliates while moisturizing.
Helps reduce rough patches and texture.
5. Antarcticine
A sugar protein that hydrates and shields the skin from harsh environmental aggressors.
What Are the Benefits of Using Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream?
1. 24-Hour Hydration
You don’t need to reapply midday — this moisturizer keeps skin soft from sunrise to sleep.
2. Strengthens Skin Barrier
Especially if you’ve damaged your skin with over-exfoliating or harsh acne treatments.
3. Lightweight, Buildable Texture
Feels like a cloud — absorbs quickly, layers well, never greasy.
4. Makeup-Friendly
A smooth canvas under foundation, BB cream, or sunscreen.
5. Suitable for Most Skin Types
Including sensitive, dry, combo, and even some oily skin types.
How to Use Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Start with a Clean Face
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser. If you’re using Kiehl’s, their Ultra Facial Cleanser is a great match.
Step 2: Apply Toner (Optional but Recommended)
Use a toner to prep your skin and balance pH. Try Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Toner for a gentle boost.
Step 3: Add Serums or Treatments
Apply your serums (like Vitamin C or Hyaluronic Acid). Let them absorb fully.
Step 4: Moisturize with Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream
Scoop out a pea-sized amount.
Warm it between your fingers.
Gently pat and massage it into your face and neck using upward motions.
Step 5: Lock it in
In the AM, follow with sunscreen.
In the PM, let the cream be your final step, or layer an oil on top if needed.
When Should You Apply It?
Morning: Prep your skin to stay hydrated all day.
Night: Helps your skin repair overnight.
Twice daily is ideal for best results.
Can You Use It with Other Kiehl’s Products?
Absolutely. It plays well with others:
With Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate (PM)
Apply the oil after your facial cream for deeper hydration.
With Kiehl’s Corrective Dark Spot Solution
Use your serum first, then seal it in with Ultra Facial Cream.
With Kiehl’s Vitamin C Serum
Apply the serum, wait 1–2 minutes, then moisturize.
Results Timeline: What to Expect
After 1 Day
Skin feels instantly softer, smoother, and more supple.
After 1 Week
Flaky or rough patches start fading. Skin looks more even-toned.
After 1 Month
Your barrier feels restored. Fine lines from dryness are minimized. You may notice a consistent, healthy glow.
Day vs Night Usage
AM Routine
Apply a thin layer.
Works beautifully under sunscreen and makeup.
Keeps you hydrated without the greasy feel.
PM Routine
Layer on a bit more generously.
Locks in serums and treatments.
Wake up with bouncy, soft skin.
How Much Product Should You Use?
Less is more.
Use a pea-sized amount for your entire face.
Apply a bit extra on dry patches or the neck area if needed.
Overusing it won’t make your skin more hydrated — just stick to the right amount and let it do its thing.
Skin Types That Love It
Dry skin: It’s a godsend.
Normal/combination: Hydrates without clogging.
Oily skin: Try a small amount. It may surprise you with how well it balances oil.
Sensitive skin: Fragrance-free and gentle.
Can Acne-Prone Skin Use It?
Yes — with a caveat.
If you have very oily or cystic acne, patch test first. While it’s non-comedogenic, richer creams can sometimes feel heavy on active breakouts. But many acne-prone users report less irritation and more comfort after using this.
How Long Does One Jar Last?
28ml (travel): ~2–3 weeks
50ml (standard): ~6–8 weeks
125ml (large): ~3–4 months with daily use
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using too much product
Just a little bit goes a long way.
❌ Applying to dirty or damp skin without cleansing
It won’t absorb properly unless your face is clean.
❌ Skipping SPF in the morning
It hydrates, not protects — always follow with SPF.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream vs The Competition
| Moisturizer | Texture | Main Benefit | Price | Best For |
| Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream | Light cream | Hydration + Barrier repair | $$ | All skin types |
| CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | Thick cream | Ceramide-rich | $ | Dry/Sensitive |
| La Roche-Posay Toleriane | Gel-cream | Soothing + Sensitive skin | $$ | Redness |
| Neutrogena Hydro Boost | Gel | Hyaluronic Acid boost | $ | Oily/Dehydrated |
Sustainable and Ethical Details
Cruelty-Free? Kiehl’s states that they do not test on animals unless required by law.
Recyclable Packaging: The plastic jar is recyclable in most places.
Environmentally-Sourced Ingredients: Like glacial glycoprotein from renewable sources.
Conclusion
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is one of those rare skincare products that lives up to the hype. Whether your skin is dry, sensitive, recovering from damage, or just needs a glow-up, this cream does it all.
By using it correctly — morning and night, after cleansing and before sunscreen — you can transform your skin’s hydration and health. It’s not flashy. It’s not trendy. But it works — and that’s what makes it a forever staple.
FAQs
1. Can you use Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream every day?
Yes! It’s designed for twice-daily use and is safe for most skin types.
2. Is it good for acne-prone skin?
It’s non-comedogenic, but patch test if you’re very oily or breakout-prone.
3. Can you use it with retinol or actives?
Definitely. Just apply after your retinol to lock in hydration and reduce irritation.
4. Does it clog pores?
No, it’s formulated to be lightweight and non-comedogenic.
5. How long does one jar last?
A standard 50ml jar lasts around 6–8 weeks with twice-daily use.