This is a review of Sebamed Moisturizing Face Cream, a nourishing moisturizer that is claimed to have been developed by dermatologists. Light enough to be worn under makeup and effective enough to keep skin soft all day, this product claims to deeply hydrate the skin for noticeably softer and healthier results, building up its barrier and offering the ‘best possible face care’. But, is Sebamed the optimal anti-aging solution for you? This review will examine a variety of the product’s aspects to provide the answer to this question, and more.
Ingredients
It is unfortunate to note that the manufacturer does not state which are the key active ingredients in this product. Below, we have listed a few that might support the product in fulfilling its claims.
- Petrolatum (Petroleum jelly)
- Glycerin
- Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
- Dimethicone
Glycerin attracts moisture to the skin, keeping it soft and supple while Vitamin E is known to provide oxidative support and anti-aging properties. Petrolatum is thought to heal skin and help it retain moisture, however, there is recent research suggesting this ingredient (as well as Dimethicone) can interfere with the natural hydrating process of the skin and create a dependency on the ingredient to hydrate skin. This is a concern. Furthermore, the formula includes many thickeners and stabilizers, such as Ceteareth-20, Phenoxyethanol, and Sodium Carbomer. The formula also includes Fragrance (Parfum) which may cause irritation and potential allergic reactions. Benzyl alcohol is also included in the formula, which has been known to dry out and sensitize the skin. These additional ingredients are a concern as they not only inhibit the product fulfilling its claims; but potentially endanger the customer by exposing their skin to irritants. Whatsmore, there is a lack of tested and patented ingredients such as Glucare S2% and Argireline NP, which are proven to effectively reduce signs of aging. While this product is cruelty-free, soap-free, and has a pH of 5.5%; there is no mention of the product being cGMP certified. In saying so, this product may not have been made according to market-standard processes, which is a concern.
Directions
The manufacturer offers very basic instructions for using this product; simply apply the non-greasy product to the face and neck after cleansing. The product comes in a tub with no information explaining how much should be used per application or how many times per day, only that the product provides the most benefits with daily and consistent use. In saying so, the ease of use is questionable. While the manufacturer claims that this product is suitable for the most sensitive of skins; the formula includes Dimethicone, which is known to induce side effects such as itchy skin and a rash. If you happen to have sensitive skin, we highly recommend doing a patch test to ensure there is no reaction. There is no indication of the concentration of the ingredients, therefore, we cannot say if this product is of an accurate concentration or not. Furthermore, the ingredients may block pores and promote breakouts.
Price
A 75ml tub of Sebamed Moisturizing Face Cream retails for $14.99 on the manufacturer’s website for a one time order. There is a 10% discount available for recurring orders, however, we strongly recommend you avoid these deals as they tend to be complicated to cancel. There are also loyalty credits and referral fees available on the Sebamed website but these offer an extremely low-value return for your efforts. This price may seem relatively affordable, however, the lack of directions prevent us from confirming how long this product may last. Furthermore, the lack of beneficial ingredients may cost you more in the long-term.
Guarantee
There is a 30-day period in which the manufacturer accepts returns and exchanges. Returns require an email first to attain authorization and only offer in-store credit instead of a total money-back refund. This is a concern and does not offer a customer support that is in line with the market standard. It is unfortunate to note that there have been many customer reviews complaining of product inefficacy as well as many negative side-effects experienced including swelling eyes, rashes, as well as other allergic reactions.
Sebamed Moisturizing Face Cream Review – Conclusion
This product appears promising at first glance, boasting a range of claims that it can fulfill. However, upon a closer look at the ingredients, we were concerned. Besides one or two beneficial ingredients, the surplus of potentially harmful fillers and binders was worrisome. While the product is cruelty-free, it lacks GMP certification as well as the support of tested and clinically-proven patented anti-aging ingredients. This may explain the relatively affordable price, although, we wonder if the potential risks would be worth it. While there is a guarantee available, it is limited and not up to the market standard. For these reasons, as well as poor customer reviews, we do not recommend Sebamed Moisturizing Face Cream.