The Ordinary Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion Moisturizer 4 fl oz — lightweight 24‑hour hydration & barrier repair

Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion is an ultra-lightweight facial moisturizer that delivers the hydration and barrier support of a rich cream while absorbing instantly for 24-hour soothing moisture.

This serum-cream hybrid from The Ordinary blends oil- and water-loving ingredients to lock in moisture, calm irritation, and leave skin with a dewy, translucent finish. Formulated with rice-derived lipids, jojoba oil, ectoin, and Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF), the formula is designed to boost skin water content, reduce visible redness, and support barrier repair without a greasy residue. Clinical testing shows immediate hydration and measurable barrier benefits after a single use, and enhanced luminosity when paired with compatible toners.

How does this microemulsion hydrate like a rich cream without feeling heavy?

The product uses micro-fluidized emulsion technology to combine lightweight texture with concentrated moisturizing actives. Rice lipids and jojoba oil help retain water in the skin while ectoin and NMF attract and bind moisture molecules for longer-lasting hydration. The result is the emollience of a cream with the fast absorption of a lightweight lotion.

• Microemulsion format absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy finish.
• Rice lipids form a lipid layer that reduces transepidermal water loss.
• Ectoin and NMF increase the skin’s water-holding capacity.
• Suitable to layer under SPF or makeup due to smooth, blendable feel.

Will it calm redness and strengthen the skin barrier?

Yes — the formulation is intended to soothe and help repair compromised skin. Clinical testing noted reduced visible redness and barrier improvement after application, which supports the product’s design for dry, reactive skin. Ectoin’s stabilizing properties plus barrier-supporting lipids make it a good choice when sensitivity and moisture loss are concerns.

• Clinical data shows visible redness reduction after repeated use.
• Lipids and emollients restore barrier lipids and slow moisture loss.
• Accepted by the National Eczema Association, indicating suitability for sensitive skin types.

How should I use Rice Lipids + Ectoin in my routine for best results?

Apply after water-based steps like toners and serums to seal in hydration; a few drops are enough for the face and neck. For very dry skin, follow with a richer cream or occlusive to lock moisture in. It also layers well under sunscreen or foundation without pilling, making it easy to include in morning and evening routines.

• Shake the bottle and dispense a few drops onto fingertips.
• Apply after toner or essence, before heavier creams if needed.
• Pairing with Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner increases moisture boost.
• Use twice daily for sustained hydration and barrier support.

Can this product replace a cream for very dry skin?

For many users it provides the hydration of a cream in a lighter format, but very dry skin may still benefit from layering. The microemulsion is formulated to deliver rich-feeling results, yet some people with severe dryness should apply an additional occlusive moisturizer afterward to maximize moisture retention overnight.

• Effective as a primary moisturizer for normal to moderately dry skin.
• Layer with a heavier moisturizer if skin remains tight or flaky.
• Works under makeup and sunscreen, avoiding heavy buildup.

Who is this for: The Ordinary Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion is tailored for people with dry, sensitive, or reactive skin who want rich hydration without weighty creams. It’s also useful for anyone aiming to repair a weakened skin barrier, reduce visible redness, or add a dewy finish that layers well under SPF and makeup. If you have very dry or eczema-prone skin, consider using this as part of a layered routine with a thicker moisturizer when extra occlusion is needed.

Ingredients

AQUA/WATER/EAU, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) LIPIDS, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, ECTOIN, HYDROGENATED LECITHIN, PROPANEDIOL, GLYCERIN, RHUS SUCCEDANEA FRUIT WAX, GLYCERYL GLUCOSIDE, SODIUM HYALURONATE, ALLANTOIN, UREA, SERINE, ALANINE, GLYCINE, GLUTAMIC ACID, LYSINE HCL, THREONINE, ARGININE, PROLINE, PCA, SODIUM PCA, XYLITYL GLUCOSIDE, ANHYDROXYLITOL, XYLITOL, FRUCTOSE, GLUCOSE, MALTOSE, TREHALOSE, BETAINE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, POLYGLYCERYL-10 LAURATE, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE, TOCOPHEROL, SODIUM CHLORIDE, SODIUMLACTATE, SODIUM CITRATE, CITRIC ACID, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, ISOCETETH-20, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, ETHYLHEXYL GLYCERIN, PHENOXYETHANOL, CHLORPHENESIN.