Dr. Barbara Sturm

Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying Face Cream

Name: Dr. Barbara Sturm - Clarifying Face Cream
Brand: Dr. Barbara Sturm

Efficacy62/100IrritancyMedium

See all ingredients

Edit

Works for

1 of 4 advertised claims delivered

Moisturizing

30 ingredients credited for this claim

Strong support

What the product description says

“Clarifying Face Cream”

From product name

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: arginine, biosaccharide gum-1.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: arginine, dimethicone.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: panthenol, urea

DimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish~0.4–0.6%

Echium plantagineum seed oilKey activeEffect: HighA plant oil that because of its high content of alpha-linolenic acid help support skin barrier function and moisturize the skin~0.35–0.65%

FructoseKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.6%

GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~2.6–3.1%

GlycineKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help restore the skin barrier function~0.3–0.55%

Helianthus annuus seed oil unsaponifiablesKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function~0.45–0.65%

InositolKey active· HumectantEffect: High~0.3–0.6%

PanthenolHero· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function~0.5–0.75%

PantolactoneKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.3%

Sodium lactateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Is often used to adjust the pH level of the product~0.5–0.75%

Sodium pcaKey active· HumectantEffect: HighNaturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer~0.45–0.7%

Vitis vinifera seed oilKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA great emollient that can also have anti-oxidant properties~3.2–4%

Zinc pcaKey active· HumectantEffect: HighA compound that combines zinc with a hydrating ingredient PCA. Might to be helpful against acne and clogged pores. Can help calm down inflammation in skin. Could be helpful in reducing the formation of free radicals in skin. Might help to reduce fine lines in wrinkles, but solid evidence is missing~0.45–0.7%

UreaHero· HumectantEffect: HighNaturally present in skin (urea makes up about 7% of natural moisturizing factors in skin). Attracts water to the upper layer of the skin. Also has a positive effect on the skin barrier beyond the humectant action. Can enhance penetration of other ingredients. Is an exfoliating ingredient when used in high concentrations~0.3–0.6%

ArginineKey active· Humectant, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin~0.3–0.55%

Biosaccharide gum-1Key active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and is claimed to provide a longer-lasting hydration because of its ability to create a water-binding film on the surface of the skin~0.35–0.6%

Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~0.9–1.1%

Macadamia integrifolia seed oilKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA plant oil that helps soften the upper layer of the skin~4.4–5.3%

Hydrogenated vegetable glyceridesKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelp soften the upper layer of the skin~0.6–0.9%

Sorbitol· HumectantEffect: LowHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improves the product texture~1.7–2.1%

Ethylhexyl isononanoate· EmollientEffect: LowHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product consistency~1.5–1.8%

Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.2–0.35%

Glyceryl stearate citrate· EmollientEffect: LowHelps oil and water mix together while softening the upper layer of the skin~2.1–2.6%

Octyldodecanol· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that helps to soften the skin and create a pleasant product texture and stabilize the formulation~1–1.2%

Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~4.1–5%

NiacinamideUnder-dosedEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~0.3–0.6%

Caprylic/capric triglycerideUnder-dosedEffect: HighA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~0.25–0.5%

AllantoinUnder-dosedEffect: HighHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.35–0.65%

Lactic acidUnder-dosedEffect: HighAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.3–0.55%

TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.3–0.6%

Evens skin tone

4 ingredients credited for this claim

Limited support

What the product description says

“What it is An anti-aging moisturizer specifically developed for blemish-prone skin that creates a more even, clarified complexion.”

Source: Sephora

This product contains ingredients (lactobacillus/portulaca oleracea ferment extract) that could help reduce hyperpigmentation (for example, post-acne marks or age spots) in theory, but there is not enough evidence that they actually work.

Lactobacillus/portulaca oleracea ferment extractEffect: LowObtained from fermenting a plant extract with bacteria Lactobacillus. The resulting compound might be able to calm down inflammation and have some anti-oxidant properties, but solid evidence is missing~1.1–1.4%

Ascorbic acidUnder-dosedEffect: HighThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging~0.1–0.15%

Anti-blemish

4 ingredients credited for this claim

Limited support

What the product description says

“, Zinc Counteracts the formation of breakouts.”

Source: Sephora

This product contains ingredients (zinc pca) that could help reduce blemishes and clogged pores in theory, but there is not enough evidence that they actually work.

Zinc pcaKey activeEffect: MediumA compound that combines zinc with a hydrating ingredient PCA. Might to be helpful against acne and clogged pores. Can help calm down inflammation in skin. Could be helpful in reducing the formation of free radicals in skin. Might help to reduce fine lines in wrinkles, but solid evidence is missing~0.45–0.7%

AllantoinEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.35–0.65%

Anti-aging

7 ingredients credited for this claim

Limited support

What the product description says

“What it is An anti-aging moisturizer specifically developed for blemish-prone skin that creates a more even, clarified complexion.”

Source: Sephora

This product does not contain ingredients that are able to reduce fine lines and wrinkles or help with skin elasticity, but it can improve the look of the skin temporarily through moisturization. Well-moisturized skin might also be able to repair the sun damage better.This ingredient - zinc pca - could be helpful for preventing or repairing signs of aging in theory, but there is no evidence that it actually works.

Zinc pcaEffect: LowA compound that combines zinc with a hydrating ingredient PCA. Might to be helpful against acne and clogged pores. Can help calm down inflammation in skin. Could be helpful in reducing the formation of free radicals in skin. Might help to reduce fine lines in wrinkles, but solid evidence is missing~0.45–0.7%

Polygonum bistorta root extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties and is claimed by its manufacturer to be able to decrease lines and wrinkles but evidence is lacking~0.3–0.6%

Lactic acidUnder-dosedEffect: MediumAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.3–0.55%

Ascorbyl palmitateEffect: Low, below effective doseBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable and can penetrate the skin better than L-Ascorbic acid. It is effective in protecting the skin from free radicals, as well as evening the skin tone, but is less effective in stimulating collagen production compared to L-Ascorbic acid.~0.15–0.25%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

1 strong irritant: Alcohol

Medium risk

We flagged 19 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.

IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount

Cardiospermum halicacabum flower/leaf/vine extractA plant extract that might have some anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties but evidence is missingHigh~0.3–0.6%est.

AlcoholCan be drying and contribute to skin irritation. Used in formulars to dissolve other ingredients, create a thinner product consistency or for its antibacterial propertiesHigh~0.25–0.45%est.

Ascorbic acidThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of agingHigh~0.1–0.15%est.

Vitis vinifera seed oilA great emollient that can also have anti-oxidant propertiesMedium~3.2–4%est.

Dimethylimidazolidinone rice starchUsed to create a thicker product consistencyMedium~0.6–0.9%est.

Tocopheryl acetateA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.Medium~0.55–0.8%est.

Sodium lactateHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Is often used to adjust the pH level of the productMedium~0.5–0.75%est.

Echium plantagineum seed oilA plant oil that because of its high content of alpha-linolenic acid help support skin barrier function and moisturize the skinMedium~0.35–0.65%est.

Polygonum bistorta root extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties and is claimed by its manufacturer to be able to decrease lines and wrinkles but evidence is lackingMedium~0.3–0.6%est.

Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrateA preservative that comes from radishes fermented by a bacteria. New research suggests that the preservation properties in the ingredient come from an ammonium salt that is not present naturally in radish root but used in its cultivation. Is problematic because the exact amount of the preservative agents is difficult to determineMedium~0.3–0.6%est.

Lactic acidAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)Medium~0.3–0.55%est.

Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymerMaintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.3–0.6%est.

EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.3–0.55%est.

Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.25–0.5%est.

Hexylene glycolHelps create a more spreadable product textureMedium~0.25–0.45%est.

Caprylic/capric triglycerideA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerinMedium~0.25–0.5%est.

Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.2–0.35%est.

Ascorbyl palmitateBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable and can penetrate the skin better than L-Ascorbic acid. It is effective in protecting the skin from free radicals, as well as evening the skin tone, but is less effective in stimulating collagen production compared to L-Ascorbic acid.Medium~0.15–0.25%est.

Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.05–0.15%est.

Comedogenic

1 ingredient rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale

1 flagged

These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.

IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount

Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~0.9–1.1%est.

Edit

Cheaper Alternatives

Similar formulations, better price

Maruderm Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer Face & Body Cream

86% match

$21.99

Simple X Kindness Hydrating Light Facial Moisturiser

82% match

$0.04

View all alternatives

User reviews

Would you recommend?

No community reviews yet.

Be the first — your take helps the next person decide.

Write a review · ~30s

Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Macadamia integrifolia seed oil~4.4–5.3%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A plant oil that helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Macadamia integrifolia seed oil

Butylene glycol~4.1–5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol

Vitis vinifera seed oil~3.2–4%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A great emollient that can also have anti-oxidant properties

More about Vitis vinifera seed oil

Glycerin~2.6–3.1%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin

Glyceryl stearate citrate~2.1–2.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together while softening the upper layer of the skin

More about Glyceryl stearate citrate

Sorbitol~1.7–2.1%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improves the product texture

More about Sorbitol

Ethylhexyl isononanoate~1.5–1.8%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product consistency

More about Ethylhexyl isononanoate

Lactobacillus/portulaca oleracea ferment extract~1.1–1.4%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-inflammatoryReduces irritationReduces rednessAnti-blemishEvens skin tone

Obtained from fermenting a plant extract with bacteria Lactobacillus. The resulting compound might be able to calm down inflammation and have some anti-oxidant properties, but solid evidence is missing

More about Lactobacillus/portulaca oleracea ferment extract

Octyldodecanol~1–1.2%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

An emollient that helps to soften the skin and create a pleasant product texture and stabilize the formulation

More about Octyldodecanol

Cetearyl alcohol~0.9–1.1%

Key activeComedogenic 2/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 2/5

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture

More about Cetearyl alcohol

Dimethylimidazolidinone rice starch~0.6–0.9%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Dimethylimidazolidinone rice starch

Hydrogenated vegetable glycerides~0.6–0.9%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

Help soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrogenated vegetable glycerides

Tocopheryl acetate~0.55–0.8%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.

More about Tocopheryl acetate

Panthenol~0.5–0.75%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Reduces rednessMoisturizingReduces irritation

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function

More about Panthenol

Sodium lactate~0.5–0.75%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Is often used to adjust the pH level of the product

More about Sodium lactate

Sodium pca~0.45–0.7%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Naturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer

More about Sodium pca

Zinc pca~0.45–0.7%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-inflammatoryMoisturizingAnti-blemishAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

A compound that combines zinc with a hydrating ingredient PCA. Might to be helpful against acne and clogged pores. Can help calm down inflammation in skin. Could be helpful in reducing the formation of free radicals in skin. Might help to reduce fine lines in wrinkles, but solid evidence is missing

More about Zinc pca

Allantoin~0.35–0.65%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryReduces irritationReduces rednessAnti-blemishExfoliation

Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated

More about Allantoin

Echium plantagineum seed oil~0.35–0.65%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-inflammatory

A plant oil that because of its high content of alpha-linolenic acid help support skin barrier function and moisturize the skin

More about Echium plantagineum seed oil

Helianthus annuus seed oil unsaponifiables~0.45–0.65%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function

More about Helianthus annuus seed oil unsaponifiables

Biosaccharide gum-1~0.35–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and is claimed to provide a longer-lasting hydration because of its ability to create a water-binding film on the surface of the skin

More about Biosaccharide gum-1

Polygonum bistorta root extract~0.3–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidationAnti-aging

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties and is claimed by its manufacturer to be able to decrease lines and wrinkles but evidence is lacking

More about Polygonum bistorta root extract

Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate~0.3–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative that comes from radishes fermented by a bacteria. New research suggests that the preservation properties in the ingredient come from an ammonium salt that is not present naturally in radish root but used in its cultivation. Is problematic because the exact amount of the preservative agents is difficult to determine

More about Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate

Cardiospermum halicacabum flower/leaf/vine extract~0.3–0.6%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties but evidence is missing

More about Cardiospermum halicacabum flower/leaf/vine extract

Fructose~0.3–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Fructose

Glycine~0.3–0.55%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help restore the skin barrier function

More about Glycine

Inositol~0.3–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

More about Inositol

Lactic acid~0.3–0.55%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

ExfoliationEvens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-aging

An exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)

More about Lactic acid

Niacinamide~0.3–0.6%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-blemishReduces irritationAnti-inflammatoryReduces rednessAntibacterial

Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production

More about Niacinamide

Urea~0.3–0.6%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingExfoliation

Naturally present in skin (urea makes up about 7% of natural moisturizing factors in skin). Attracts water to the upper layer of the skin. Also has a positive effect on the skin barrier beyond the humectant action. Can enhance penetration of other ingredients. Is an exfoliating ingredient when used in high concentrations

More about Urea

Tocopherol~0.3–0.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-oxidationAnti-agingAnti-inflammatoryMoisturizing

Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself

More about Tocopherol

Phenoxyethanol~0.35–0.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol

Dimethicone~0.4–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone

Arginine~0.3–0.55%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

An amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin

More about Arginine

Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer~0.3–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Maintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix together

More about Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer

Xanthan gum~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.3–0.55%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Disodium edta~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta

Hexylene glycol~0.25–0.45%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps create a more spreadable product texture

More about Hexylene glycol

Alcohol~0.25–0.45%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Antibacterial

Can be drying and contribute to skin irritation. Used in formulars to dissolve other ingredients, create a thinner product consistency or for its antibacterial properties

More about Alcohol

Caprylic/capric triglyceride~0.25–0.5%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin

More about Caprylic/capric triglyceride

Sodium benzoate~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

A preservative

More about Sodium benzoate

Pantolactone~0.15–0.3%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Pantolactone

Caprylyl glycol~0.2–0.35%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol

Ascorbyl palmitate~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-agingAnti-oxidation

Being a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable and can penetrate the skin better than L-Ascorbic acid. It is effective in protecting the skin from free radicals, as well as evening the skin tone, but is less effective in stimulating collagen production compared to L-Ascorbic acid.

More about Ascorbyl palmitate

Citric acid~0.05–0.15%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Can work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pH

More about Citric acid

Ascorbic acid~0.1–0.15%

Under-dosedIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-agingAnti-oxidationEvens skin tone

The most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging

More about Ascorbic acid

Ingredient list view

Water, Macadamia integrifolia seed oil, Butylene glycol, Vitis vinifera seed oil, Glycerin, Glyceryl stearate citrate, Sorbitol, Ethylhexyl isononanoate, Lactobacillus/portulaca oleracea ferment extract, Octyldodecanol, Cetearyl alcohol, Dimethylimidazolidinone rice starch, Hydrogenated vegetable glycerides, Tocopheryl acetate, Panthenol, Sodium lactate, Sodium pca, Zinc pca, Allantoin, Echium plantagineum seed oil, Helianthus annuus seed oil unsaponifiables, Biosaccharide gum-1, Polygonum bistorta root extract, Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate, Cardiospermum halicacabum flower/leaf/vine extract, Fructose, Glycine, Inositol, Lactic acid, Niacinamide, Urea, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Dimethicone, Arginine, Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, Xanthan gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium edta, Hexylene glycol, Alcohol, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Sodium benzoate, Pantolactone, Caprylyl glycol, Ascorbyl palmitate, Citric acid, Ascorbic acid

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

Amazon USPrice as of 10/9/2026 21:08 GMT

$213.95

Buy

Beautylish

$240.00

Buy

Affiliate links · prices updated regularly · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
	Dr. Barbara SturmClarifying Face CreamYOUR PRODUCT	MarudermHyaluronic Acid Moisturizer Face & Body Cream	SimpleX Kindness Hydrating Light Facial Moisturiser	ISDINIsdinceutics Prevent Hyaluronic Moisture Sensitive Skin
Match	—	86%	82%	76%
Price	$178.48	$21.99−$156.49	$0.04−$178.44	$38.50−$139.98
Shared key ingredients	—	12 of 22	7 of 22	7 of 22
Key difference	—	Sodium Hyaluronate	Mineral Oil	Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Irritancy	Medium	Low	Low	Medium
Drying alcohol	Contains drying alcohol	—	—	—
	View product	Shop	Shop	Shop

Cheaper alternatives? See how this stacks up against similar formulas.

We compare ingredient profiles across our catalog — pick the closest match for your budget.

Open dupe finder

Product summary

Based on the ingredient list, "Dr. Barbara Sturm - Clarifying Face Cream" can work well for skin moisturization. This moisturizer uses a good combo of humectants and emollients. These both types of ingredients are essentials for improving the skin hydration and keeping the skin barrier healthy. Humectants in this product (panthenol, urea, arginine, biosaccharide gum-1 and fructose) help to increase the water content in the upper layer of the skin. (These ingredients do so by "capturing" water molecules from the outside air or from within the deeper layers of the skin). Helianthus annuus seed oil unsaponifiables, vitis vinifera seed oil, arginine, dimethicone and cetearyl alcohol in this product help decrease the water evoporation from the skin, so that it stays hydrated for longer. These ingredients also soften the skin and take away the feeling of tightness and dryness.

Ingredient callouts

This product also contains Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). It can be an effective active for anti-aging and evening out the skin tone, but in this moisturizer it is used for stabilizing other ingredients in the formulation. In this concentration (0.10% - 0.15%) it cannot have a noticeable benefit for the skin.

This product contains ingredients that could be beneficial, but their concentrations are too low in this formulation: caprylic/capric triglyceride, vitamin e, niacinamide, lactic acid, allantoin and vitamin c

Irritation risk

There are some common irritants in this product, including ingredients that do not have benefits for the skin. We assess the overall irritancy of this moisturizer to be medium. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here

You can see the detailed formula review with the breakdown of all actives in the product and the full ingredient list with estimated concentrations in the tables below.

About the brand

According to Cruelty-Free Kitty "Dr. Barbara Sturm" is cruelty free and so is its parent company.

Price

The product retails for 240.00$ in the United States, from 135.00£ up to 150.00£ in the United Kingdom and for 290.00CA$ in Canada.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 25 studies and safety reviews.

1
Fatty acids profile of oil from nine varieties of Macadamia nuttandfonline.com
2
Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
3
Amended Safety Assessment of Alkyl Esters as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
4
Therapeutic Advantages of Medicinal Herbs fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum, in Topical Application and its Activities on Atopic Dermatitisonlinelibrary.wiley.com
5
Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulationspdfs.semanticscholar.org
6
Safety Assessment of Panthenol, Pantothenic Acid, and Derivatives as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
7
Zinc L-pyrrolidone carboxylate inhibits the UVA-induced production of matrix metalloproteinase-1 by in vitro cultured skin fibroblasts, whereas it enhances their collagen synthesisonlinelibrary.wiley.com
8
Zinc Therapy in Dermatology: A Review hindawi.com
9
Profile of wound healing process induced by allantoinscielo.br
10
Healing fats of the skin: the structural and immunologic roles of the omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acidsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
11
Cosmetic or dermatological use of a polygonum bistorta extractpatents.google.com
12
See all › 15 References See all › 31 Figures Download citation Share Download full-text PDF Restoration of Both Epithelial and Endothelial Perlecan / Dystroglycan Expressions by Polygonum bistorta induces Skin Rejuvenationresearchgate.net
13
Evidence for the efficacy and safety of topical herbal drugs in dermatology: Part I: Anti-inflammatory agentssciencedirect.com
14
Effect of Topical Application of Glycine and Proline on Recalcitrant Leg Ulcers of Prolidase Deficiencyjamanetwork.com
15
Functional glycine receptor in cultured human keratinocytesonlinelibrary.wiley.com
16
Epidermal and dermal effects of topical lactic acidncbi.nlm.nih.gov
17
Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skinpdfs.semanticscholar.org
18
Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
19
Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
20
Topical urea in skincare: A reviewpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
21
Vitamin E in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
22
Vitamin E and Skin Healthlpi.oregonstate.edu
23
Dimethicone as a protective ingredient in topical medicationsjaad.org
24
Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Dimethicone Copolyoljournals.sagepub.com
25
Safety Assessment of Panthenol, Pantothenic Acid, and Derivatives as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org

Dr. Barbara SturmClarifying Face Cream

Buy on Amazon$213.95 · as of 10/9 21:08 GMT

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Buy on Amazon$213.95 · as of 10/9 21:08 GMT

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.