This is a cream built around petrolatum, with sorbitol and propylene glycol among its water-binding ingredients. Fatty alcohols, silicones and emulsifiers round out the formula; sorbic acid is listed near the end as a preservative.
Near the top of the list, petrolatum helps reduce water loss from the skin by forming a protective layer. It is the formula's main occlusive ingredient. Full receipt ›
sorbitolhumectant
well-supported
Sorbitol helps attract and hold water in the skin. It appears near the top of the list, after petrolatum.
cetearyl alcoholemollient and thickener
well-supported
This fatty alcohol helps soften skin and gives the cream a thicker texture. It is different from simple drying alcohols such as ethanol.
propylene glycolhumectant and solvent
well-supported
Propylene glycol helps hold water and dissolve or distribute other ingredients. It can irritate or cause sensitivity for some people.
simethiconeskin protectant
well-supported
Simethicone is a silicone that helps form a protective layer and can contribute to a smoother feel. It appears in the middle of the list.
sorbic acidpreservative
well-supported
Listed near the end, sorbic acid helps limit the growth of microbes in the product. It may bother particularly sensitive skin.
02 · Who it may suit
People looking for a rich cream with petrolatum near the top of the list.
Skin that tends to feel dry and may benefit from both occlusive and water-binding ingredients.
Those who prefer a formula with no fragrance listed.
03 · What to watch for
The petrolatum-rich formula may feel heavy or leave a noticeable layer.
Propylene glycol can irritate or trigger sensitivity in some people.
Sorbic acid may be a concern for particularly sensitive skin.
Questions people ask
Does Vanicream Moisturizing Cream contain petrolatum?
Yes. Petrolatum is second in the ingredient list, after water.
Does this cream contain fragrance?
Fragrance is not listed among the provided ingredients.
Is cetearyl alcohol the same as drying alcohol?
No. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used to soften and thicken the cream, not a simple drying alcohol such as ethanol.
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