Hydrating Face Cream

Barcode 5056369112279

Yes — Hydrating Face Cream is ultra-processed.

Classified as ultra-processed because it contains multiple cosmetic-grade industrial additives (e.g., ethylparaben, polyacrylate-13, polyisobutene, c13-14 isoparaffin, phenoxyethanol, aluminum hydroxide). Although NOVA is designed for foods, if this were edible it would clearly be an ultra-processed formulation due to the presence of synthetic preservatives, polymers, and texturizers.

Ingredients

5 ultra-processed markers

OK

water

A basic, universally used liquid solvent and dietary ingredient in many cuisines and beverages.
UPF

glycerol stearate

An ester used as an emollient and emulsifier in cosmetics and some foods; often considered a processing aid/emulsifier rather than a standalone nutrient.
OK

stearic acid

A saturated fatty acid (C18:0) used as a surfactant, emulsifier, and thickener in cosmetics and foods.
OK

glycerin

A simple polyol compound used as humectant and moisturizer in cosmetics; derived from fermentation or vegetable oils; commonly used in foods as glycerin too but in cosmetics considered a cosmetic ingredient.
UPF

potassium phosphate

A inorganic salt commonly used as a food additive and pH regulator.
UPF

polyacrylate-13

A synthetic polymer used as a thickener/emulsifier in various processed foods and products.
OK

dicaprylyl carbonate

A lightweight, skin-friendly emollient derived from caprylic/capric acids often used in cosmetics to impart a silky feel and improve spreadability.
OK

silica

A mineral compound (silicon dioxide) used as a filler or texturizer in cosmetics; provides slip and oil absorption.
OK

sodium hyaluronate

A salt form of hyaluronic acid; a hydrating humectant that attracts water to the skin, commonly used in skincare products.
OK

gum arabic (acacia senegal gum)

A natural edible gum from Acacia trees used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in foods and beverages.
UPF

propane-1,2-diol (propylene glycol)

A synthetic humectant and solvent used in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals; common food-grade form exists but is a processed additive.
OK

sodium chloride

Common table salt; basic culinary ingredient and essential mineral used for flavor and preservation.
OK

tocopheryl acetate (vitamin e acetate)

An ester of tocopherol used as a vitamin E source and antioxidant in cosmetics and foods; can be used as a nutrient fortificant.
UPF

iron oxides (ci 77491, ci 77499, ci 77492)

A common group of inorganic colorants used in foods to impart brown, orange, and yellow hues. They are synthesized iron oxide pigments used as food color additives.

Common questions about Hydrating Face Cream

Is Hydrating Face Cream ultra-processed?

Yes — Hydrating Face Cream is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). Classified as ultra-processed because it contains multiple cosmetic-grade industrial additives (e.g., ethylparaben, polyacrylate-13, polyisobutene, c13-14 isoparaffin, phenoxyethanol, aluminum hydroxide). Although NOVA is designed for foods, if this were edible it would clearly be an ultra-processed formulation due to the presence of synthetic preservatives, polymers, and texturizers.

Which ingredients in Hydrating Face Cream are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 5 ingredients in Hydrating Face Cream as ultra-processed markers: glycerol stearate, potassium phosphate, polyacrylate-13, propane-1,2-diol (propylene glycol), iron oxides (ci 77491, ci 77499, ci 77492). See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.