Facial cream tests reveal quality gaps and problematic ingredients

Recent consumer tests on facial creams have revealed significant quality disparities among various brands. In a study of 32 rich facial creams for dry skin conducted by ÖKO-TEST, only 12 products received the highest rating of ‘very good’. Notably, several expensive brand-name products performed poorly, with some being rated as ‘insufficient’ or ‘deficient’.

Critical findings included the presence of synthetic musk compounds like Galaxolid, which is suspected of affecting the human hormonal system, and aromatic mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOAH). Other substances of concern included the preservative chlorphenesin and certain PEG compounds.

In separate evaluations of moisturizing day creams, La Roche-Posay Hydraphase HA Leicht achieved the best overall rating due to its skin feel and lack of detectable allergens or formaldehyde. Balea moisturizing cream from DM was noted for providing the best price-performance ratio. For mature skin (ages 60+), Neutrogena Hydro Boost Aqua Creme was identified as a top performer for its light texture and hydration capabilities.