Tower 28 is the first beauty brand built entirely around National Eczema Association compliance. Every ingredient in this moisturizer passes NEA screening — a much stricter standard than typical 'sensitive skin' claims. The result is a barrier cream that eczema sufferers can trust without checking the INCI list against a personal exclusion database.
A purpose-built barrier cream for people who have been burned by 'sensitive skin' products that were not sensitive enough. NEA-certified, clinically tested, and genuinely gentle — it does exactly one thing, but it does it with rare integrity.
The case for it
What would change this: A declared concentration would move this to a firmer reading of the dose.
Same rule for everyone. “Good choice” is the verdict on 9,564 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R5 decided 9,072 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.
Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →
The studies behind the evidence row
The case for it
What would change this: A declared concentration would move this to a firmer reading of the dose.
Same rule for everyone. “Supporting role” is the verdict on 8,197 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R8 decided 4,250 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.
Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →
The studies behind the evidence row
The case for it
What would change this: A researched evidence row for the lead active would replace this with a verdict.
Same rule for everyone. “Good choice” is the verdict on 1,938 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule F2 decided 1,938 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.
Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →
The case for it
Same rule for everyone. “Good choice” is the verdict on 9,564 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R5 decided 9,072 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.
Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →
The studies behind the evidence row
The case for it
What would change this: A concentration inside the studied range would raise this a step.
Same rule for everyone. “Supporting role” is the verdict on 8,197 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R7 decided 258 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.
Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →
The studies behind the evidence row
The case for it
Same rule for everyone. “Good choice” is the verdict on 9,564 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule R5 decided 9,072 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.
Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →
The studies behind the evidence row
Does the jobDoes what a moisturizer is for: draws in water, softens and smooths.
A verdict is DermApproved’s assessment of how well a product’s ingredients fit a concern — never a claim about what the product treats. Evidence dots and collected reviews sit beside it and are never blended in. Rules 0.5.1 · evidence table ev-2026.09-r228 · how we decide
Most sensitive skin moisturizers are designed by marketers who slap a 'gentle' label on a fairly standard formula and call it a day. Tower 28's SOS Daily Moisturizer was designed by someone whose skin rejected all of them.
Amy Liu spent over twenty years as a beauty executive — the kind of person who builds brands for a living — while privately dealing with eczema that made her unable to use the products she was selling. When she launched Tower 28 in 2019, she did something unusual for an indie beauty brand: she built the entire product line around compliance with the National Eczema Association's ingredient standards. Not a single product in the Tower 28 lineup, including this moisturizer, contains any ingredient that has not been approved by the NEA. That is a meaningfully higher bar than 'dermatologist-tested' or 'hypoallergenic,' both of which are unregulated terms that any brand can print on any bottle.
The formula reflects that discipline. Twenty-five ingredients, and not one of them is there to make the product smell nice, look luxurious, or photograph well on Instagram. Water and glycerin form the hydration base. Cetyl ethylhexanoate and caprylic/capric triglyceride provide clean, non-irritating emolliency. Ceramide NP anchors the barrier-repair function, supported by cetearyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol as fatty alcohol co-emulsifiers that reinforce the skin's lipid structure. Allantoin provides soothing and mild keratolytic action. Four molecular weights of hyaluronic acid — sodium acetylated hyaluronate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, and hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate — deliver layered hydration.
Two quieter lines deserve credit. Triolein and glyceryl dioleate are skin-identical lipids — a triglyceride and a diglyceride respectively — and they do the work that a botanical oil would do in a less careful formula, without importing the sensitization risk that comes with plant extracts. That substitution is the whole design philosophy in miniature: find the ingredient that performs the function, then find the version of it that nobody's skin argues with. The texture, meanwhile, comes from an unusually gentle set of thickeners — microcrystalline cellulose, cellulose gum, sclerotium gum, and sodium polyacrylate starch, that last one lending a faint powdery softness on the dry-down. Sodium phytate chelates. And preservation runs entirely through 1,2-hexanediol, pentylene glycol and ethylhexylglycerin, a multifunctional trio that keeps the formula stable without a conventional preservative at all.
What is absent from this list is as important as what is present. No fragrance. No essential oils. No silicones. No niacinamide, which — despite being generally well-tolerated — can trigger flushing in some rosacea patients. No botanical extracts with potential for contact sensitization. No retinoids, no exfoliating acids. This is a cream that has been stripped to its functional essentials and then stress-tested against the ingredient standards of a clinical skin condition organization. The one thing it is not is fungal-acne-safe, thanks to the fatty alcohols and triglycerides — a fair trade for a formula built around eczema rather than Malassezia, but worth knowing.
The texture is surprisingly pleasant for something so functionally minded. It has a soft, almost whipped quality — light enough that it does not feel like you are applying a medical ointment, but substantive enough that your skin registers the moisture immediately. It absorbs within about thirty seconds to a satin finish that sits well under sunscreen or makeup. There is no stinging, no tingling, no warming sensation. For anyone accustomed to the small wincing moment that comes with applying cream to irritated skin, the total absence of sensation is the product's quiet triumph.
Tower 28 had this product clinically tested by a third-party lab with 32 participants, and the results were notable: 100 percent showed reduced redness, increased hydration, and improved texture. A sample size of 32 is not large, and a brand-commissioned study is not the same as independent research — that caveat should be stated rather than buried. But the unanimity is more plausible here than it would be elsewhere, precisely because a formula designed to contain nothing irritating has very little in it to produce a non-responder. Comfort is an easier endpoint to hit unanimously than efficacy.
In practice, the timeline runs about as the mechanisms predict. Tightness eases immediately. Redness visibly settles across one to two weeks. The deeper barrier work — fewer reactions, less reflexive stinging from other products — accrues over four to eight weeks. It also makes an excellent buffer after a retinoid or an acid, which is arguably its second-best use case after eczema itself.
The moisturizer is broadly suitable for dry, normal, sensitive, and combination skin, though oily types may find it slightly too emollient for daytime. It addresses eczema, rosacea, general sensitivity, and barrier damage without promising to treat acne, pigmentation, or aging — which is honest positioning. This is a daily comfort cream, not a treatment product, and it does not pretend to be one.
The limitations are the limitations of restraint. At $24 for 1.86 ounces — two to three months at twice-daily use — the price is fair but not exceptional; you are paying a small premium for NEA compliance, clean formulation standards, and the brand's eczema-focused development process. Mini and jumbo sizes exist, which softens the commitment in both directions. The single ceramide is a genuine formulation limitation next to creams that supply the full ceramide-cholesterol-fatty-acid trio, though the triolein goes some way toward covering that ground. The jar, while recyclable, is less hygienic than a pump. And for very dry skin in a harsh winter, this may need something richer layered over the top of it.
As an emerging brand with only a few years on the market, Tower 28 does not have the decades of clinical history that legacy pharmacy brands can cite. But the NEA seal, an Allure Best of Beauty award, and well over a thousand retailer reviews averaging above four stars provide meaningful validation for a brand this young. The track record is being built in real time, and the early evidence is strong.
The SOS Daily Moisturizer is not exciting. It is not trendy. It will not go viral on TikTok for its texture or its packaging or a dramatic before-and-after. What it will do is sit on your shelf as the one product you can always reach for when your skin is angry and everything else stings. For the people it was made for, that reliability is worth more than any ingredient innovation.
The hero actives that drive this product's performance.
| Ingredient | Function | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramide NP (0.20-0.75%) | The anchor of this barrier-repair formula, ceramide NP works alongside the caprylic/capric triglyceride and cetearyl alcohol to reconstruct the lipid matrix disrupted in conditions like eczema and rosacea. In this NEA-compliant formulation, the ceramide is supported by emollients that mimic the skin's natural lipid environment without relying on potentially sensitizing botanical oils. | Established mechanism for Dryness · established mechanism |
| Hyaluronic Acid Complex (Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate) | Four molecular weights of hyaluronic acid provide layered hydration within this cream matrix. The acetylated form has enhanced binding to skin, while the crosspolymer creates a surface moisture reservoir. In a barrier-repair cream designed for eczema-prone skin, multi-weight HA ensures hydration reaches compromised areas where single-weight HA might not perform consistently. | Established mechanism for Dehydration · established mechanism |
| Allantoin | Serves a dual role in this eczema-focused formula — its mild keratolytic action gently smooths the rough, flaky texture common in barrier-compromised skin, while its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the redness that gives this product its 'Redness Recovery' designation. Works synergistically with ceramide NP to both calm and repair. | No qualifying study for Rosacea |
| Glycerin | Listed second in the formula, glycerin is the primary humectant driving this moisturizer's hydration. At this high concentration, it pulls moisture into the compromised barrier while the emollient and occlusive ingredients seal it in. In an NEA-compliant formula that avoids many common humectants, glycerin carries a significant portion of the hydration workload. | Clinically supported for Eczema · well-established certainty |
Ingredient standings describe the active at treatment-level doses and vehicles; this product's own condition grades weigh its actual formula.
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Polyacrylate Starch, Sclerotium Gum, Triolein, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Behenyl Alcohol, Allantoin, Ceramide NP, Glyceryl Dioleate, Cellulose Gum, Sodium Phytate, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin
moisturizer
AM & PM
Use as the last step before sunscreen (AM) or as the last step (PM). Can be layered over serums and treatments without pilling. For extra compromised skin, layer over a hydrating toner for enhanced barrier support.
Immediate relief from tightness and dryness after first application. Redness reduction typically visible within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Full barrier-repair benefits and sustained reduction in sensitivity reactions expected at 4-8 weeks.
The barrier-repair approach of this moisturizer is grounded in the well-established role of ceramides in skin barrier function. Ceramide NP (formerly ceramide 3) is one of the most abundant ceramide species in healthy stratum corneum, and its depletion is consistently documented in eczema and other barrier-compromised conditions. A landmark study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology demonstrated that topical ceramide-containing moisturizers significantly improved barrier function and reduced transepidermal water loss in patients with atopic dermatitis.
The multi-weight hyaluronic acid approach — four forms spanning surface-retention crosspolymer to deeper-penetrating hydrolyzed fragments — aligns with research published in Skin Research and Technology (2015) showing that lower molecular weight HA penetrates through the stratum corneum while higher molecular weight forms create a hydrating film on the surface.
Allantoin, the formula's soothing agent, has a well-documented profile as a skin protectant recognized by the FDA. Its mild keratolytic properties promote gentle cell turnover, which is particularly relevant for eczema-prone skin where hyperkeratinization contributes to the rough, flaky texture. A review in the Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research confirmed allantoin's wound-healing, anti-irritant, and cell-proliferating properties.
The product's own third-party clinical testing with 32 participants demonstrated 100% efficacy in redness reduction, hydration improvement, and texture enhancement — results that, while from a small sample, are consistent with the known mechanisms of the formula's key ingredients.
Dermatologists recognize Tower 28's NEA compliance as a meaningful differentiator from typical 'sensitive skin' marketing claims. Skin-care clinicians frequently recommend NEA-certified products for patients with atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis precisely because the ingredient vetting process eliminates common triggers that unregulated 'hypoallergenic' claims do not address. The ceramide NP and multi-weight hyaluronic acid combination aligns with established dermatological principles for barrier repair. Dermatologists may note that while this moisturizer is excellent for daily maintenance and mild flares, it is not a substitute for prescription treatments during severe eczema episodes — it functions best as a supportive daily moisturizer within a broader dermatologist-guided treatment plan.
Apply a dime-sized amount to clean, slightly damp skin as the last step of your skincare routine (before sunscreen in the AM). Gently press the cream into the skin rather than rubbing. For enhanced hydration, layer over a hyaluronic acid toner or serum. Can be used morning and evening. During eczema flares, apply more generously to affected areas. Compatible with all treatment products — use after actives like retinol or vitamin C as a soothing buffer.
At $24 for 1.86 oz, the Tower 28 SOS Moisturizer sits in the mid-range for clean beauty moisturizers. The NEA certification and third-party clinical testing add value that is not reflected in the ingredient cost alone — you are paying for a level of safety vetting that most moisturizers do not undergo. A mini size is available for those who want to trial before committing, and a jumbo size at Sephora offers better per-ounce value for those who have already committed. For people with eczema or severe sensitivity who have spent money on products that stung or triggered flares, the reliability alone may justify the price. Compared to prescription barrier creams, it is significantly more affordable while addressing similar underlying needs.
Anyone with eczema, rosacea, or reactive skin who needs a daily moisturizer they can trust not to sting or trigger flares. Also excellent for post-procedure skin, retinol adjustment periods, and anyone who has been disappointed by 'sensitive skin' products that were not gentle enough.
Oily skin types may find this too emollient for daytime use. Those seeking anti-aging, brightening, or acne-fighting actives in their moisturizer will need to pair this with additional treatment products. People who prefer rich, heavy barrier creams may find this too lightweight for extreme winter dryness.
Ready to try Tower 28 SOS Save Our Skin Daily Moisturizer?
Buy at Amazon ♥Soft, cushiony cream with a whipped quality that melts into skin on contact. Lightweight enough to feel comfortable in warm weather yet substantive enough to satisfy normal-to-dry skin types.
No detectable scent — formulated without any fragrance or essential oils.
White plastic jar with a screw-top lid, available in standard (1.86 oz), mini, and jumbo sizes at Sephora. Recyclable packaging aligns with the brand's sustainability commitments.
On first application, the cream feels immediately soothing with zero stinging or tingling — even on active eczema flares or post-procedure skin. The texture is surprisingly light for a barrier cream, absorbing within 30-60 seconds to a comfortable, non-greasy finish. No adjustment period needed.
2-3 months applied morning and evening facial use
All Year
Founder Amy Liu spent over two decades as a beauty executive while personally struggling to find products that would not trigger her eczema. Tower 28 was born from her frustration with 'sensitive skin' claims that did not hold up for people with clinical skin conditions. The SOS moisturizer is the distillation of that mission — a daily cream where every ingredient has been vetted against the NEA's strict standards.
Tower 28 was founded in 2019 by Amy Liu, a former beauty executive who struggled with eczema and spent 20+ years in the prestige beauty industry. It is the first beauty brand to be 100% compliant with the National Eczema Association's ingredient guidelines. While relatively new, the brand's formulations are guided by NEA standards and have earned an Allure Best of Beauty award.
Barrier-repair creams need to feel heavy and occlusive to work.
This lightweight cream delivers barrier repair through ceramide NP, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, and emollients like caprylic/capric triglyceride — ingredients that restore the lipid matrix without relying on heavy occlusives like petrolatum. The cream's clinical tests confirmed redness reduction and hydration improvement with this lighter approach.
Products labeled 'for eczema' are just regular moisturizers with a marketing claim.
Tower 28's NEA Seal of Acceptance requires that every ingredient in the formula be reviewed and approved by the National Eczema Association — a process far more rigorous than self-declared 'dermatologist-tested' claims. Not all ingredients commonly found in moisturizers pass this screening.
Yes — this is one of the few moisturizers that carries the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance, meaning every ingredient has been vetted by the NEA. The ceramide NP and allantoin help repair the compromised barrier typical of eczema, while the absence of fragrance, essential oils, and common sensitizers minimizes flare risk.
Absolutely. The ceramide NP, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, and allantoin make this an excellent post-retinol moisturizer. Apply your retinol first, wait a few minutes, then layer this cream on top to buffer irritation and support the barrier through retinol adjustment periods.
While Tower 28 does not make an official non-comedogenic claim, the formula is free of known comedogenic ingredients and uses non-pore-clogging emollients like caprylic/capric triglyceride. Many users with acne-prone skin report no breakout issues, and the product was clinically tested to improve skin texture.
The standard size is 1.86 oz (55ml) for $24. A mini travel size and a jumbo size are also available at Sephora, making it easy to try before committing or stock up once you've found it works for your skin.
Yes. In third-party clinical testing with 32 participants, 100% showed reduced redness after use. The formula's allantoin and ceramide NP combination addresses redness from barrier damage, while the absence of irritants prevents the product itself from contributing to redness — a common issue with moisturizers that contain fragrance or alcohol.
Recurring themes our editors read across retailer reviews of this product — summaries in our words, not quotations, and not a substitute for your own patch test.
Incredibly gentle — does not sting even on compromised, irritated skin
Light, cushiony texture absorbs quickly without greasiness
Noticeably reduces facial redness within days of consistent use
Clean ingredient list with no fragrance or common irritants
Works beautifully under makeup and sunscreen
May not be rich enough for very dry skin in winter months
Price is moderate for the 1.86oz size
Simple formula may feel underwhelming for those expecting active treatment
Packaging pump can dispense too much product at once
Verified answers from our questions library — the nuance a product page cannot carry.
