I’ve tried countless face creams, from drugstore steals to high-end splurges, but Bath and Body Works Hydrating Face Cream has won my heart. It’s affordable, smells divine, and keeps my skin soft and glowing.

Whether you’re battling dry patches or just want a reliable daily moisturizer, this cream delivers. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience, break down the pros and cons, compare it to other brands, and give you tips to make it work for you. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your skincare routine!

My Journey with Bath and Body Works Hydrating Face Cream

Let me paint you a picture: it’s winter, my skin feels like sandpaper, and I’m desperate for something to bring it back to life. I’d been a fan of Bath and Body Works body lotions for years, so when I saw their Hydrating Face Cream with Hyaluronic Acid on the shelf, I figured, why not? The lavender and sage scent was calling my name, and the price—under $20—felt like a steal for a dermatologist-tested, vegan product. I tossed it in my basket, hoping it wouldn’t just be another jar collecting dust on my bathroom counter.

The first time I used it, I was hooked. The cream has this silky, lightweight texture that glides on like a dream. I scooped out a small amount, warmed it between my fingers, and massaged it into my face after cleansing. My skin drank it up instantly, leaving a soft, dewy glow without any greasy residue.

The lavender and sage fragrance was subtle, not overpowering, and it felt like a mini spa moment before bed. By morning, my face felt plump and hydrated, and those tight, flaky patches on my cheeks were noticeably smoother.

Over the next few weeks, I used it twice daily—morning and night. My combination skin, which can swing from oily to Sahara-dry depending on the weather, stayed balanced. I layered it under sunscreen during the day, and it played nicely with my makeup, creating a smooth base for foundation.

At night, I’d slather on a bit more for extra hydration, and it never pilled or felt heavy. One thing I noticed was how long the jar lasted; a little goes a long way, making it a budget-friendly choice. After a month, my skin looked healthier, and I got compliments on my “glow.” Was it perfect? Not quite—I’ll get into that later—but it’s become a staple in my routine.

Pros Of Bath And Body Works Hydrating Face Cream

Incredible Hydration That Lasts: Let’s talk about the star of the show: hydration. This cream is packed with hyaluronic acid, a humectant that pulls moisture into your skin and keeps it there. I noticed my face felt softer and more supple all day, even in harsh winter air. It’s like giving your skin a tall glass of water. The formula also includes shea butter, which adds a nourishing layer without clogging pores. For someone like me with dry patches, this was a game-changer. You’ll love how it smooths out rough spots and leaves your skin feeling pampered.

Lightweight and Non-Greasy: I can’t stand heavy creams that sit on my skin like an oil slick. This one absorbs quickly, leaving a soft, velvety finish. It’s perfect for daytime use under makeup or sunscreen, and it doesn’t make your face shiny by noon. Even if you have combination or oily skin, you might find this works without feeling heavy. I was skeptical at first, thinking a hydrating cream might be too rich, but it strikes a perfect balance. You get moisture without the weight, which is a win in my book.

Budget-Friendly Price: At under $20 for a 1.7-ounce jar, this cream is a steal. I’ve spent triple that on fancy moisturizers that didn’t deliver half the results. The jar lasts for months because you only need a small amount per application. For you, this means you’re getting high-quality skincare without breaking the bank. It’s dermatologist-tested, vegan, and not tested on animals, so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your face. Who doesn’t love a product that’s kind to both your skin and your wallet?

Pleasant, Subtle Scent: The lavender and sage fragrance is a standout. It’s not your typical overpowering Bath and Body Works scent—it’s light and calming, like a quick aromatherapy session. I look forward to applying it because it feels like a treat. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, you might want to patch-test first, but I found it gentle and non-irritating. The scent fades after a bit, so it won’t clash with your perfume or linger all day.

Cons Of Bath And Body Works Hydrating Face Cream

Fragrance Might Not Be for Everyone: While I love the lavender and sage scent, it’s not a universal win. Some users, especially those with sensitive skin, find the fragrance too strong or irritating. I chatted with a friend who’s an esthetician, and she pointed out that fragranced products can sometimes cause redness or breakouts for certain skin types. If you’re prone to sensitivities, you might want to stick to unscented options or test this on a small patch of skin first. For me, it wasn’t an issue, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Sticky Afterfeel for Some: The cream absorbs well for me, but I’ve heard from others that it can leave a slightly sticky residue, especially if you apply too much. I tested this by using a heavier layer one night, and sure enough, my skin felt a tad tacky for an hour or so. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you prefer a completely matte finish, you might need to adjust how much you use. Less is more with this one, so start small and build up if needed.

Limited Availability: Here’s a frustration: Bath and Body Works tends to discontinue products or release them seasonally. I’ve grown attached to this cream, but there’s always a chance it won’t be around forever. Some users online mentioned they loved it but couldn’t repurchase because it vanished from shelves. This makes me hesitant to fully commit, knowing I might need to find a replacement down the line. Stock up when you see it, or you might be left scrambling.

How It Stacks Up Against Other Brands

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream: CeraVe’s Moisturizing Cream is a dermatologist favorite, and I’ve used it in the past. It’s a thick, fragrance-free formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, designed to repair the skin barrier. I found it incredibly hydrating, especially for my dry patches, and it’s great for sensitive skin. However, it feels heavier than Bath and Body Works’ cream and can leave a slight film if overapplied. CeraVe is also pricier per ounce, and the tub packaging isn’t as sleek. If you need a no-frills, clinical option, CeraVe is solid, but it lacks the sensory experience I get from Bath and Body Works.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream: Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Gel-Cream is another hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer I’ve tried. Its gel-like texture is super lightweight, making it ideal for oily skin. I liked how it sank in instantly, but it didn’t hydrate my dry skin as deeply as Bath and Body Works’ cream. The fragrance-free formula is a plus for sensitive skin, but it’s more expensive and doesn’t have the luxurious feel I crave. If you lean toward gel textures, Neutrogena might suit you, but for richer moisture, Bath and Body Works wins.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is a high-end option I splurged on once. It’s packed with squalane and glycoproteins, delivering intense hydration and a radiant finish. I loved how it melted into my skin, but at $40 for a small jar, it’s a luxury. Bath and Body Works’ cream offers similar hydration at a fraction of the cost, though Kiehl’s feels a bit more refined and has no fragrance. If budget isn’t an issue, Kiehl’s is fantastic, but Bath and Body Works gives you comparable results without the hefty price tag.

Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Cream

Apply to Damp Skin: Here’s a trick I learned: apply the cream right after cleansing when your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture and makes the hyaluronic acid work even better. I pat my face with a towel post-wash, leaving it just a tad dewy, then massage in the cream. It absorbs faster and keeps my skin hydrated longer. You’ll notice a difference if you try this, especially in dry weather. It’s a small step that makes the product feel even more luxurious.

Use the Right Amount: Less is more with this cream. I made the mistake of slathering on too much at first, and it felt sticky. Now, I use a pea-sized amount for my whole face, warming it between my fingers before applying. It spreads evenly and gives me all the hydration I need without waste. If you’re using it under makeup, stick to a thin layer to avoid pilling. Play around to find what works for you, but start small to keep things smooth and non-greasy.

Pair with a Gentle Cleanser: To maximize results, pair the cream with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. I use a creamy cleanser that doesn’t leave my skin tight, which preps it to soak up the moisturizer. Harsh, foaming cleansers can dry you out, making the cream work harder than it needs to. If you’re new to skincare, try something like Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser before applying the Bath and Body Works cream. Your skin will feel balanced and happy.

Store It Properly: This might sound obvious, but don’t leave the jar in a steamy bathroom or direct sunlight. Heat and humidity can degrade the ingredients, reducing the cream’s effectiveness. I keep mine in a cool, dry drawer, and it stays fresh for months. Also, use clean fingers or a small spatula to scoop it out—dipping in with dirty hands can introduce bacteria. Treat the jar with care, and it’ll keep your skin glowing for the long haul.

Patch-Test FirstIf you have sensitive skin, do a patch test before slathering it all over your face. I dabbed a bit on my inner wrist for a day to make sure I wouldn’t react. The fragrance and some ingredients like dimethicone can irritate certain skin types, so it’s worth being cautious. If you’re good to go, you’ll love how it feels, but this step saves you from potential redness or breakouts. Better safe than sorry, right?

Also read: My Thoughts on Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Conditioner Reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Bath and Body Works Cream Good for Your Face?

Absolutely, it’s a solid choice for most skin types, especially if you’re after hydration. The hyaluronic acid and shea butter deliver moisture without feeling heavy, and it’s dermatologist-tested, so it’s generally safe. I’ve used it for months with no issues, and my dry skin loves it. However, if you’re sensitive to fragrances, the lavender and sage scent might be a concern. Patch-test first to be sure. Overall, it’s a reliable, affordable option that leaves your skin soft and glowing.

What Is the Most Hydrating Cream for the Face?

Bath and Body Works Hydrating Face Cream is up there, but it depends on your needs. For me, it’s a top pick because it balances lightweight texture with deep moisture. If you have extremely dry or sensitive skin, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream might edge it out due to its ceramides and fragrance-free formula. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is another heavy hitter for intense hydration, though it’s pricier. Try Bath and Body Works first for its price and performance—you might not need anything else.

What Are the Ingredients in Bath and Body Works Face Cream?

The cream contains water, isopropyl palmitate, dimethicone, caprylic/capric triglyceride, glyceryl stearate, glycerin, shea butter, ethylhexyl palmitate, panthenol, and fragrance, among others. Hyaluronic acid is the hero, pulling in moisture, while shea butter and dimethicone lock it in. Panthenol soothes and hydrates, but the fragrance (lavender and sage) might irrit между for sensitive skin. It’s a solid lineup for hydration, though I wish they’d skip the parfum to make it more universal.

Can You Put Bath and Body Works Hand Cream on Your Face?

I wouldn’t recommend it. Hand creams, like Bath and Body Works’ Ultimate Hydration Body Cream, are thicker and often have stronger fragrances that can irritate facial skin. I tried it once out of curiosity, and it felt greasy and caused a small breakout. The face cream is formulated with lighter ingredients like hyaluronic acid, designed for delicate skin. Stick to the Hydrating Face Cream for your face—you’ll avoid redness and clogged pores that way.

Final Thoughts

Bath and Body Works Hydrating Face Cream is a must-have for anyone craving soft, hydrated skin without spending a fortune. Its lightweight feel, lovely scent, and powerful ingredients make it a standout in my routine. From the pros and cons to maintenance tips and comparisons, I’ve shared why this cream deserves a spot on your shelf. Grab a jar, try it out, and see how it transforms your skin. You won’t regret it!

Bath And Body Works Hydrating Face Cream: Is It Worth It?