La Mer Crème de la Mer Review
Key actives:
Miracle Broth™ (Algae Extract, fermented kelp complex): brand proprietary conditioning/soothing complex; independent anti-aging evidence limited.
Lime Tea Concentrate: proprietary antioxidant blend
Crème de la Mer Moisturizer
La Mer's Crème de la Mer is perhaps the most iconic luxury moisturizer on the market, built around the brand's legendary "Miracle Broth" - a fermented blend of sea kelp and other marine ingredients that the brand says took 12 years to perfect.
It is a very rich occlusive/emollient moisturizer whose performance comes from its base: mineral oil + petrolatum + waxes + lanolin alcohol with glycerin for water binding. This combo reduces transepidermal water loss and cushions fine lines via hydration. It’s especially effective in evening routines and in cold/dry conditions.
Who should use
Normal or dry-leaning skin seeking a PM seal-in moisturizer for cold/dry conditions; fine if you’re not fragrance-sensitive and you pair it with targeted actives (vitamin C AM, retinoid PM) for brightening/anti-aging.
Who shouldn't use
If you want a fragrance-free rich cream or measurable brightening/retinoid-like change from your moisturizer alone; allocate budget to actives and use a simpler occlusive cream instead.
Red Flags:
Contains eucalyptus oil with listed allergens (limonene, linalool, citronellol, etc.) and other fragrant plant oils that can irritate sensitive skin or cause reactions over time.
Supporting ingredients worth noting:
Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Microcrystalline Wax, Lanolin Alcohol, Paraffin/Isohexadecane — Occlusive/emollient system that meaningfully reduces TEWL and delivers the rich feel (core to dryness relief + fine-line softening via water retention).
Glycerin — Humectant that increases water content in the stratum corneum (immediate plump).
Tocopheryl Succinate (Vitamin E): Antioxidant/conditioning.
Sesame Seed Oil — Emollient lipid support.
Eucalyptus Oil: Provides the signature scent but can be sensitizing for some (more on this below).