Review: Neutrogena Hydro Boost (Best Water Gel Cream?)

Often we are in search of a perfect hydrating cream for dry skin that still has a lightweight quality, free of any residue or greasy texture. Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid comes well reviewed and recommended by many with this set of concerns, as well as varying skin types and textures.

For those with dry skin who want to restore hydration, it can be challenging to find a great product that offers value and quality. It can also be tough to find a moisturizer strong enough to tackle dry skin without a heavy, weighed down feeling.

Is the quality and formulation of the product enough to deliver results in the form of long-lasting hydration without suffocating the skin? The gel-cream formula absorbs like a gel but with all of the benefits of a cream, and corresponding product longevity, that typically comes in the form of heavier creams or moisturizers. The product is free of any fragrances, dyes, oils, and is non-comedogenic. The skin is left smooth, soft, supple, hydrated and refreshed. This is a standout product in the category and we can why it comes so well reviewed. In a seemingly never ending and always evolving market for dry skin treatments, the Hydro Boost gel cream is a leader in providing a suitable option for dryness. As an added bonus the product can be used year-round, including during hot summer months, free of any stickiness.

Review: Neutrogena Hydro Boost

While the Hydro Boost Gel Cream is great for very dry skin, those with combination skin or only slightly dry skin love the product, and see similar benefits with use. The water formulation provides a rare and light option in the treatment of dry skin, and has an added benefit of never clogging pores or creating skin milea (deposits of calcium and dead skin which become trapped under the surface layer of the dermis, typically caused by a moisturizer that is too heavy).

Skin is left supple, clean, and even in texture/tone. It isn’t too surprising given the plethora of benefits why users return to this gel cream time after time and continue to recommend it. It may be compared to a serum in texture, but with additional hydration for dryness.

Gels Versus Creams:

Why opt for a gel-based formula rather than a traditional moisturizer or heavy cream? Fans of the Hydro Boost Water Cream speak volumes about the lightweight texture and can still claim the same benefits of a cream that hydrates all day. Additionally, the skin is never clogged or suffocated and can withstand makeup application immediately. Often moisturizers that address dry skin as a concern are quite heavy, sticky, or greasy. This creates product build up, residue and can feel quite uncomfortable. It can also create skin irritation and ultimately cause an adverse reaction. Often when one uses very heavy creams a cyclical problem begins. Irritation, breakouts, and clogged pores may form, and the remedy may come in the form of a very drying or astringent type anti-acne product.

So there’s a very strong case for those with dry skin trying the lightest formulas they can tolerate that still provide adequate hydration. Some fans of Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost recommend adding a serum or cleanser that replenishes hydration in tandem with the gel for additional benefits.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Ingredients

Hyaluronic Acid

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel claims bragging rights for offering a hyaluronic acid component at a relatively low price compared to competitors. Some of the benefits of this hot-button ingredients main benefits include:

• Aids in anti-aging, firming and maintaining moisture to the skin and layers of the dermis
• Helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Creates a smooth and supple texture and aesthetic
• Is a naturally occurring element in the body that depletes over time with age (akin to collagen), requiring restoration to maintain the same youthful appearance
• Increases hydration and overall appearance of the skin, ability to absorb 1000 times its weight in water

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Pros & Cons

Pros

• While the product is marketed towards very dry skin types, it seems to work for all skin types including combination (except exclusively oily types)
• Perfect for sensitive skin, rarely causes breakouts or reactions
• Suitable for very dry skin but lightweight in texture and composition
• Does not cause breakouts, skin clogging or pore clogging
• Leaves skin refreshed, clear and healthy
• Anti-aging component: the product can act preventatively or retroactively to address signs of aging skin due to hyaluronic acid formula and hydration
• Ease of use: can be used on the go, day or night, and can be used as a part of a simple 2 or 3 step regimen
• Some customers feel the price point per ounce is very fair for quality (this point is debated)
• Ability to use makeup products directly after using the gel cream without skin clogging or weighing down the skin
• Great for dry skin during all seasons

Cons

• Some feel price point per ounce/use can be a bit high, but fans of the product seem to find ways to best utilize it by combining other products or using on damp skin (hence requiring a thinner layer)
• Some customers want or expect a higher concentration of hyaluronic acid, which is featured as one of the last ingredients

How Do I Use Neutrogena Hydro Boost?

Apply a thin layer of gel cream evenly to the face and neck area after cleansing (or cleansing and then toning). Can be used daily, day or not. Does not require specific products or brands to supplement the product but some users may opt to include a serum or SPF product as well. Makeup application can follow directly.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost: Is It Worth It?

Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Cream is a great formulation and product for very dry skin types, but may be beneficial even for slightly dry or combination complexions. The product lives up to its hype and name by delivering consistent results and providing a strong and long-lasting moisture hold with all of the benefits of a lighter product and none of the hassles or concerns that come with heavier treatments. It can be used on sensitive skin and contains hyaluronic acid which further binds moisture and provides anti-aging benefits.

The gel-based cream is certainly a fan favorite and is recommended in the treatment of dry skin.

5/5 stars, and it certainly doesn’t break the bank!