The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA Review: Is This Moisturizer Right for You?
Choosing the right moisturizer can be tricky. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA review explores a popular, budget-friendly option that promises hydration without clogging pores. If you’re wondering is the ordinary moisturizer good for oily skin or just want to know whether this moisturizer from The Ordinary fits your routine, this in-depth review will shed light on everything you need to know.
Finding a reliable, non-comedogenic moisturizer is essential. It should hydrate your skin deeply without causing breakouts or leaving a greasy film. The Ordinary has made a name for itself with effective, straightforward skincare products that focus on key ingredients and affordability. This blog will look at what makes The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA stand out, how to use it properly, whether it suits oily skin, how it stacks up against the popular CeraVe moisturizer, and where you can buy it safely.
What is The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA?
Understanding what makes The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA unique starts with knowing what Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) are. NMF are compounds naturally found in the outermost layer of your skin. They keep your skin hydrated, soft, and elastic by locking in moisture and supporting the skin barrier. This moisturizer replicates and supplements these natural substances, helping restore and maintain your skin’s protective layer.
The moisturizer contains a blend of amino acids, fatty acids, urea, glycerin, saccharides, phospholipids, sodium PCA, triglycerides, and importantly, hyaluronic acid (HA). While ceramides—a crucial barrier-repair ingredient—are absent in this formula, the other ingredients work together to maintain hydration and skin health. For information on how ceramides benefit the skin and how they compare with other hydrating ingredients, see our detailed review of The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides.
Hyaluronic Acid plays a key role by attracting water and holding it in the skin cells. This boosts skin plumpness and day-long moisture retention, which is essential for a comfortable, glowing complexion.
In texture, this product is a lightweight, non-greasy cream. It absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any sticky or oily residue. Additionally, it is fragrance-free, reducing the risk of irritation, and cruelty-free, aligning with ethical skincare standards.
In summary, the moisturizer from The Ordinary is a hydration-focused, ingredient-rich formula designed to support your skin’s moisture barrier in a gentle and accessible way.
How to Use Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Knowing how to use Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA correctly can maximize its benefits. Follow these straightforward steps for best results:
- Cleanse your face thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities. For gentle cleansing options compatible with sensitive and oily skin, check out our The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner review.
- Apply any serums or targeted treatments you use first. If you use other popular serums by The Ordinary, such as the Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum, see the usage tips here.
- Using a small amount, gently apply the moisturizer to your face and neck while the skin is still slightly damp.
- Massage it gently until fully absorbed.
- In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen for full protection.
For optimal hydration, apply this moisturizer twice daily — morning and night. Applying on damp skin helps seal in moisture better than dry skin application. The lightweight texture means it layers well under makeup or heavier creams and oils if desired. However, avoid thick occlusive products that can clog pores, especially if you tend to acne.
Users consistently report that the moisturizer sits comfortably under makeup without pilling or flaking, making it an excellent addition to both simple and complex skincare routines.
Is The Ordinary Moisturizer Good for Oily Skin?
If you have oily skin, choosing the right moisturizer can feel like walking a tightrope. You want to hydrate your skin without amplifying shine or triggering breakouts. Many skip moisturizer entirely, fearing it will clog pores or make their skin oilier.
But moisturizing is a skin essential — even oily skin types need it. Proper hydration prevents the skin from becoming dehydrated, which often causes excess oil production as a compensatory mechanism.
So, is the ordinary moisturizer good for oily skin? The answer lies in its formulation. This product uses an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula with a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly. It contains no heavy butters or pore-clogging occlusives, making it ideal for oily and combination skin.
User reviews back this up, highlighting how the moisturizer doesn’t increase shine or cause breakouts. Instead, it delivers balanced hydration that supports skin health. Its fast absorption and residue-free finish make it a favorite among those with oily or acne-prone complexions.
In short, the moisturizer from The Ordinary offers hydration that oily skin needs without the usual downsides of greasiness or clogged pores.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA Review – Pros and Cons
Like any product, The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA has its strengths and weaknesses. Let’s examine both clearly:
Pros
- Provides deep hydration without greasiness, suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, and sensitive.
- Fragrance-free and minimalist formula, minimizing the chance of irritation or allergic reactions.
- Fast absorption, layers well under makeup, and no pilling observed by users.
- Certified cruelty-free and vegan, appealing to ethical consumers.
- Extremely affordable, offering excellent value for money compared to premium moisturizers.
Cons
- Some users note a slight tacky feeling initially after application; this disappears after absorption and can serve as a good makeup primer.
- The formula might feel a little thick to some, requiring firm rubbing to fully absorb.
- The tube’s applicator tip may collect residue, a minor but cosmetic drawback.
- Absence of ceramides means it may not offer the enriched barrier repair needed for very dry or severely compromised skin, where richer moisturizers excel.
User Experience
Numerous users, including those with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, find it soothing and hydrating without irritation. The balance between lightweight texture and effective moisture makes it a reliable daily option.
Overall, the the ordinary natural moisturizing factors + ha review reveals a quality product that serves many skin types well but may not replace ceramide-rich alternatives for extreme dryness or damage.
The Ordinary NMNF vs CeraVe Moisturizer — Which One Wins?
When deciding between The Ordinary NMNF + HA and CeraVe moisturizer, it helps to understand their key differences and where each shines.
| Feature | The Ordinary NMNF + HA | CeraVe Moisturizer |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $7.90 (30 ml), ~$14 (60 ml) | $15-$20 (355 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Amino acids, hyaluronic acid, no ceramides | Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, patented MVE technology |
| Suitable Skin Types | Normal, oily, combination, sensitive | Dry, normal, combination, sensitive |
| Texture | Lightweight, non-greasy | Richer, thicker cream |
| Non-comedogenic | Yes | Yes |
| Fragrance | Fragrance-free | Fragrance-free |
| Hydration Strength | Medium, barrier support | High, intensive hydration and barrier repair |
| Packaging | Plastic tube with dropper-like opening | Tub |
| Availability | Online (Sephora, Ulta, official site) | Widely available (drugstores, online) |
Summary:
- The Ordinary NMNF + HA is ideal if you want a lightweight, affordable moisturizer that layers well and works well with oily or combination skin. It’s perfect for those seeking simple, effective hydration without heaviness.
- CeraVe suits those with dry or damaged skin who need intensive barrier repair thanks to ceramides and specialized technology. Its richer consistency offers more intense moisture but could feel heavy on oily skin.
In the the ordinary nmnf vs cerave moisturizer debate, your skin type and hydration needs will guide the best choice.
Where to Buy The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
To ensure you get an authentic moisturizer from The Ordinary, buy from trusted retailers only:
- The Ordinary (DECIEM) official website is always a reliable source.
- Large beauty retailers like Sephora and Ulta both online and in physical stores carry the product.
- Amazon can be convenient — but only purchase from listings marked “Ships from and Sold by Amazon” or The Ordinary’s official storefront to avoid counterfeits.
Tips to Avoid Counterfeits
- Check that packaging matches The Ordinary’s well-known minimalist, clinical design.
- Verify batch numbers and ingredient lists against the official website.
- Avoid suspiciously discounted or third-party sellers outside the above channels.
FAQs
Is The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA good for oily skin?
Yes. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic formula makes it ideal for oily and combination skin types, providing hydration without excess shine or breakouts.
How do I properly apply Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA?
Cleanse your skin first, apply any serums, then use a small amount of this moisturizer on slightly damp skin morning and night. Follow with sunscreen during the day.
Can I use The Ordinary NMNF with other serums?
Yes, it pairs well with most serums. However, avoid heavier oils if you are prone to clogged pores. For layering with serums, see our guidance in The Ordinary Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum review.
How long does one bottle last?
Depending on the size and amount used daily, expect it to last between one to two months.
What are some differences between The Ordinary NMNF and CeraVe?
The Ordinary is more lightweight and focused on amino acids and hydration but lacks ceramides. CeraVe provides richer moisture, ceramide-based skin barrier repair, and is better suited for very dry or compromised skin needing intensive repair.
Summary
The The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA review reveals a simple, effective, and affordable moisturizer. It excels at deep hydration without feeling greasy, making it perfect for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types. Its lightweight texture and transparent ingredients make it a standout minimalist option.
When compared to CeraVe, The Ordinary offers better affordability and lighter hydration suited for normal to oily skin. CeraVe remains the top choice for very dry or compromised skin needing intensive repair.
For the best deals and to guarantee you receive authentic products, always purchase from reputable retailers such as the official brand website, Sephora, Ulta, or trusted Amazon sellers.
Whether you want a lightweight daily moisturizer or a budget-friendly way to support your skin barrier, The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA fits the bill as a reliable skincare staple.
This detailed review is designed to help you decide if this well-loved moisturizer from the ordinary suits your skin needs and routine, answering your key questions thoroughly and clearly.
