Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
Updated Nov 8, 2026 · Top Face Creams
Best for Combination or oily skin that shines under a rich cream.
The fragrance-free gel-cream in the Hydro Boost line, for skin that shines under a rich cream. Neutrogena lists hyaluronic acid plus amino acids and says this version is dye-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic. Its 48-hour hydration line compares the cream with untreated skin, not with other creams. Wirecutter's seasonal moisturizer advice names the Hydro Boost Gel Cream as a good middle step for normal or combination skin, because gel creams carry more softening oils than a true gel. Its main moisturizer guide picks the Hydro Boost Water Gel, a different product, for normal skin, and testers found this gel-cream absorbed on oily T-zones. Prevention's dermatologists also recommend Hydro Boost for oily skin, and those quotes describe the water gel. This one is the unscented jar. It will not replace a petrolatum cream in a dry winter.
What customers like
- Lightweight and nongreasy formula
- Deeply hydrates and moisturizes extradry skin
- Absorbs quickly into the skin
- Improves skin's hydration levels
- Suitable for all skin types including oily skin
- Affordable price
What customers dislike
- Some may find the gelcream texture too light for their liking
- May not provide enough hydration for extremely dry skin
- May not work for everyone as with any skincare product
- Size
- 1.7 oz
- Texture
- Gel-cream
- Key ingredients
- Hyaluronic acid, amino acids
- Fragrance
- None
- Finish
- Non-comedogenic
Sources: Wirecutter: gel-cream as a middle step, more oils than a true gel · Wirecutter: gel-cream absorbed on oily T-zones, water gel is a different product (published 2026) · Prevention: oily-skin Hydro Boost quotes describe the water gel, not this jar (published 2025-09-11)
