The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors: A Technical Comparison for 2026
By: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer
The skin's surface contains a group of substances known as Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF). These components, which include amino acids, fatty acids, triglycerides, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, are fundamental to maintaining hydration and protecting the skin barrier. An NMF deficiency can lead to dryness, tightness, and a compromised barrier function.
The Ordinary offers a product line under the "Natural Moisturizing Factors" name, designed to topically supplement these skin-native humectants. The line includes various formulations tailored to different skin needs and types. This article analyses the technical specifications of the three main variants to help you make an informed choice.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right NMF Formulation
The decision for one of The Ordinary's moisturisers should be based on two primary criteria: texture preference and the specific needs of your skin type. The three variants differ mainly in their consistency and their primary active ingredients.
1. Texture and Formulation
- Lightweight Gel: The Beta-Glucan formulation is designed as a lightweight gel. This texture absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy residue, and is therefore particularly suitable for oily, combination skin, or for use in warmer climates.
- Classic Cream: The original version with Hyaluronic Acid (+ HA) has a creamy yet non-heavy texture. It provides balanced hydration and is a universal option for most skin types, from normal to slightly dry.
- Rich Cream: The PhytoCeramides variant is the richest of the three. Its dense, nourishing texture is designed to deliver intense moisture and lipids to very dry, dehydrated, or mature skin to strengthen the skin barrier.
2. Key Ingredients in Detail
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA): A well-known humectant that binds water on the skin's surface, providing immediate but primarily surface-level hydration. The +HA formula also contains a blend of amino acids and fatty acids.
- Beta-Glucan: A polysaccharide derived from mushrooms or oats. It is also a humectant known for its soothing properties. The gel formulation makes it a suitable moisturiser for sensitive skin.
- PhytoCeramides: Plant-derived ceramides that mimic the skin's own lipids. A cream with ceramides is designed to repair and fortify the skin's lipid barrier, which reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This variant is particularly effective for a compromised skin barrier.
All formulations presented here are designed as a vegan face cream and are fragrance-free.
Our 2026 Selection: The NMF Formulations in Detail
Based on technical specifications and use cases, we present the three variants of The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + Beta Glucan 30ml
Why We Recommend It: This formulation is notable for its ultra-lightweight gel texture and its ability to provide long-lasting hydration. The combination of beta-glucan and ceramides aims to support the skin barrier without clogging pores or leaving a heavy feeling.
Benefits:
- Lightweight Gel Texture: Ideal for skin types prone to oiliness.
- All-Day Hydration: Formulated to keep the skin moisturised for hours.
- Barrier Support: Contains beta-glucan and ceramides to support the skin's protective function.
- Clean Formulation: Free of alcohol, oil, silicones, and gluten.
Who It's For: Individuals with oily, combination, or blemish-prone skin. Also a great choice for sensitive skin types seeking a lightweight, soothing moisturiser.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides 30ml
Why We Recommend It: This cream is the richest option in the line, specifically developed for the needs of dry and dehydrated skin. It delivers a high concentration of skin-identical lipids, including glycolipids and glycosphingolipids, as well as PhytoCeramides, to effectively nourish and restore the skin barrier.
Benefits:
- Rich Texture: Provides intense nourishment and locks in moisture.
- Focus on Barrier Repair: Formulated with plant-derived ceramides and lipids.
- Comprehensive NMF Supplementation: Contains amino acids, fatty acids, and hyaluronic acid in addition to ceramides.
- Versatile Use: Can be used as both a day and night cream.
Who It's For: Individuals with very dry, dehydrated, flaky, or mature skin. Especially beneficial for a compromised skin barrier in need of intensive nourishment and repair.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA 100ml
Why We Recommend It: This is the original and most well-known formulation in the The Ordinary NMF line. It offers effective, non-greasy surface hydration through a blend of 11 amino acids, fatty acids, hyaluronic acid, and other skin-native components. Its strength lies in its universal applicability and its straightforward, yet effective, hydration.
Benefits:
- Non-Greasy Hydration: Moisturises without leaving an oily film.
- Comprehensive Ingredient List: Contains a wide range of NMF components for surface hydration.
- For All Skin Types: The balanced texture is suitable for a broad range of users.
- Extensive "Free-From" List: Non-comedogenic, free of parabens, sulphates, silicones, fragrance, and oils.
Who It's For: Individuals with normal, combination, or slightly dry skin who are looking for a reliable and straightforward daily moisturiser. It serves as a solid standard for basic hydration care.
Further Options and Alternatives
If the formulations analysed here do not precisely meet your needs, or if you are looking for products with different active ingredient combinations, a wide spectrum of moisturisers is available. You can find a curated selection of products in our natural face cream category.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What exactly are Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF)? Natural Moisturizing Factors are a collection of water-soluble compounds found in the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum). Their main function is to bind water, keeping the skin supple and hydrated. NMFs include amino acids, lactic acid, urea, and inorganic salts.
2. Which The Ordinary NMF cream is suitable for oily skin? Based on its texture and ingredients, The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + Beta Glucan is the most suitable option. Its lightweight gel formulation provides moisture without weighing down the skin or clogging pores, which is beneficial for oily skin.
3. Can I use The Ordinary moisturiser daily? Yes, all three formulations are designed for daily use. They can be applied morning and evening as needed, after serums, to moisturise the skin and complete your skincare routine. A patch test is recommended before first use.