Astral Cream Review: How Good Is This Classic Moisturiser?
This product was gifted for review, but all opinions are my own.
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly moisturiser, you’ve probably come across Astral cream. It’s one of those products that has been around for years and is still easy to find in shops across the UK.
With so many newer skincare products out there, it’s fair to wonder if it still holds up. In this Astral cream review, I’ll go through what it is, how it works, and whether it’s actually worth using today.
Quick verdict: Astral Cream is a rich, budget-friendly moisturiser that works best for very dry skin, hands, elbows, knees and heels. I wouldn’t choose it as a daytime face cream if you have oily or spot-prone skin, but as a simple body moisturiser or overnight cream for dry patches, it’s excellent value.
How I Tested Astral Cream
Before writing this review, I used Astral Cream regularly over a number of weeks to see how it performed on different areas of my skin.
My skin tends to be normal to dry, with particularly dry patches on my hands, elbows and feet at certain times of the year. I tested Astral Cream (cocoa butter as it smells divine!) as a face moisturiser, hand cream and body moisturiser to get a better idea of where it works best.
I also tried it at different times of day. During the daytime, I found it quite rich and heavy for my face, especially under makeup. However, I really liked using it overnight on dry areas as it left my skin feeling soft and well moisturised by the morning.
As with all skincare products, everyone’s skin is different, so your experience may not be exactly the same as mine. This review is based on my personal experience of using the product alongside information from the manufacturer and ingredient research.
What Is Astral Cream?
Astral is an all-over moisturiser designed for the face, hands and body. It’s been around for over 70 years, and the formula hasn’t changed much in all that time.
The cream is thick, rich, and intensely moisturising. It’s designed to suit mature and dry skin, though plenty of people with normal skin types also love it.
It’s known for being thick and very hydrating, which is why so many people still swear by it.
It’s often described as a “classic” because it has been around for generations. A lot of people remember it from childhood, and it hasn’t changed much over the years.
At its core, Astral moisturiser is designed to do one simple thing well: keep your skin soft by locking in moisture.
You can pick it up in three sizes: a handy 50ml pot for your handbag, a 200ml tub for everyday use, or a massive 500ml pot if you want to slather it everywhere.
What’s Actually In It?
In simple terms, Astral works because it combines moisturising ingredients like glycerin with rich barrier ingredients such as lanolin, mineral oil and petrolatum. That is why it feels thick and protective rather than light and lotion-like.
The formula is quite simple compared to many modern creams, but that’s part of the appeal.
It includes ingredients like lanolin, which helps soften the skin, and glycerin, which draws moisture into the skin. It also contains mineral oils that form a barrier to stop moisture escaping.
There is also fragrance, which gives it that familiar scent, but this won’t suit everyone, especially if your skin is sensitive.
Glycerin is the ingredient that pulls water from the air into your skin and locks it there. It’s one of the most effective hydrating ingredients available.
Lanolin and lanolin alcohol are natural substances derived from sheep’s wool. They’re brilliant at waterproofing your skin, which means all that moisture stays put instead of evaporating away. Modern lanolin is highly purified, so concerns about pesticides or irritation are largely outdated. (That said, a small number of people can develop a sensitivity to it, so patch test if you’re concerned.)
Mineral oil, paraffin, and petrolatum form a protective barrier on your skin. Yes, these are petrol-based ingredients, but they’re also highly refined and perfectly safe for use in cosmetics. Despite their bad reputation, they’re actually non-comedogenic (won’t block pores) and rarely cause allergic reactions. As INCIDecoder explains, cosmetic-grade mineral oil is “very pure and inert” and works as an excellent emollient.
The full ingredient list also includes magnesium sulfate (a thickener), fragrance, preservatives, and a handful of fragrance compounds like linalool and geraniol (common allergens that must be listed separately).
One ingredient worth noting is isopropyl myristate, which softens skin but has a reputation for causing breakouts in some people. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, this might be a product to avoid.
How does Astral cream work?
Astral cream doesn’t rely on lots of active ingredients. Instead, it works by creating a layer on the surface of your skin that helps hold moisture in.
This makes it especially useful for dry areas like hands, elbows, knees, and feet. It helps stop the skin from drying out and keeps it feeling smoother for longer.
Because it’s quite thick, you don’t need to use much at all to notice a difference.
How Does It Feel?
Astral is thick. Really thick. When you first apply it, it glides on smoothly, but it takes a good few minutes to fully absorb. On very dry skin, it sinks in faster, but if your skin is even remotely normal or combination, it can feel a bit greasy for a while.
The fragrance is clean and fresh, nothing overpowering. It’s there to mask the natural smell of the ingredients rather than make a statement, which is perfect for layering perfume on top. It fades quickly too, so you won’t be walking around smelling like you’ve just moisturised.
What I Like About Astral
It’s very moisturising. If you have dry, flaky, or dehydrated skin, Astral is perfect. It’s particularly good on rough patches like elbows, knees, and heels.
It’s affordable. You can pick up a 500ml tub for under £10, which is great value for money. A little goes a long way, so one pot will last you ages.
It’s versatile. You can use it on your face, body, hands, and even as a makeup remover. I took some on our last holiday as it is so versatile for road trips and travel, and as it has minimal scent, it is good for the whole family.
It contains a light fragrance. While the scent is mild, I liked the gentle fragrance. However, fragrance can irritate sensitive skin. If your skin is easily upset, this might not be the best choice.
What I Don’t Like About Astral
The texture is quite heavy. If you have combination or oily skin, this cream might feel too rich for your face. It’s better suited to very dry skin or for use on the body.
It lacks anti-ageing ingredients. Astral is a solid moisturiser, but it doesn’t contain any actives like retinol, vitamin C, or peptides. If you’re looking for anti-ageing benefits, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Astral Cream vs Nivea Creme
If you’re looking for a rich, traditional moisturiser, Astral Cream and Nivea Creme are two of the most recognisable products on UK shelves. They have been around for decades and are both known for helping with dry skin, but there are some differences worth considering.
| Feature | Astral Cream | Nivea Creme |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Rich, creamy and slightly greasy | Thick, rich and slightly waxy |
| Absorption | Absorbs reasonably well but leaves a protective layer | Slower to absorb and can feel heavier |
| Best For | Very dry skin, hands, elbows, knees and feet | Dry skin, hands, elbows and rough patches |
| Face Use | Best for dry skin or overnight use | Best for very dry skin or overnight use |
| Fragrance | Light, classic clean scent | Distinctive Nivea fragrance |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, lanolin, mineral oil and petrolatum | Eucerit, mineral oil and moisturising ingredients |
| Sensitive Skin | May not suit those sensitive to fragrance or lanolin | May not suit those sensitive to fragrance |
| Value For Money | Excellent, especially in larger tubs | Very good value and widely available |
| Travel Friendly | Available in various sizes | Available in various sizes |
| Overall Feel | Softer and creamier | Thicker and more occlusive |
In my experience, Astral Cream feels slightly lighter and creamier than Nivea Creme, making it easier to spread over larger areas of skin. Nivea Creme feels thicker and creates more of a protective barrier on the skin. Neither product is particularly lightweight, but both are excellent budget-friendly moisturisers for dry skin.
If you have very dry skin and want a traditional moisturiser without spending a fortune, either product could be a good choice. Personally, I find Astral Cream easier to apply over larger areas of the body, while Nivea Creme works particularly well on very dry patches that need extra protection.
Astral cream reviews: what do other people think?
When you look at Astral cream reviews, you’ll see a mix of opinions, but they tend to follow a similar pattern.
A lot of people love how moisturising it is and how long a tub lasts. It’s often praised for being good value for money and reliable.
On the other hand, some people mention that it feels greasy or too heavy for everyday use on the face.
Overall, most reviews agree that it’s great for dry skin but not ideal for everyone.
Safety Considerations
Astral cream, like many moisturisers, contains paraffin-based ingredients, which are flammable. According to NHS guidance, any fabric that comes into contact with paraffin-based products (like clothing, bedding, or towels) can catch fire more easily. Wash these items regularly at 60°C and keep away from naked flames or cigarettes.
While rare, some people are allergic to lanolin. DermNet says that lanolin allergy affects around 1.7-3.3% of people with dermatitis who undergo patch testing. If you notice redness, itching, or irritation after using Astral, stop using it and consult a doctor.
The cream contains cetostearyl alcohol, which can cause eye irritation. Avoid applying near the eyes and wash your hands after use.
How to Use Astral Cream
Getting Astral cream into your daily routine is honestly a doddle, even if you’re racing around the house with your hairbrush in one hand and your toast in the other. The great thing about this classic is its richness—you don’t need to lather it on like you’re icing a cake. Just a little blob will do the trick, and you’ll soon notice your skin feeling softer, smoother, and just plain happier (which, let’s be honest, is something we could all use).
For Your Body
Let’s be honest, elbows, knees and heels have a real knack for going all rough and grumpy, don’t they? Show them a bit of love by gently rubbing Astral cream into those dry spots just after you’ve stepped out of the shower or bath. When your skin’s still a bit damp, the cream can really get to work locking in moisture. For extra dry areas, pop on a pair of cotton gloves or socks overnight.
For Your Face
If you’ve got really dry or mature skin, Astral cream is reliable at bedtime. Wash your face as usual, pat it dry—no frantic towel rubbing required—and pop on any serums you fancy. Then grab a tiny blob of Astral (a pea-sized amount is more than enough), warm it up between your fingers, and gently press it into your skin. If you have very dry skin, use Astral cream as your evening moisturiser. Apply after cleansing and any serums or treatments. If you have combination or oily skin, skip it on your face and stick to using it on your body.
As a Makeup Remover
Scoop out a bit of Astral cream and gently massage it over your face. You’ll feel it start to break down your makeup—even that mascara that takes a lot of effort to remove. Then, wipe it away with a warm, soft flannel. Rinse your face with your usual cleanser after, and there you go—clean, comfy skin with not a panda eye in sight.
Who is Astral Cream perfect for?
Best for:
- Very dry skin
- Hands, elbows, knees and heels
- Mature skin
- Budget skincare
- Overnight moisturising
Not best for:
- Oily skin
- Acne-prone faces
- People avoiding fragrance
- Anyone wanting SPF or retinol-style skincare benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Astral cream good for wrinkles?
While it is not an anti-ageing cream with retinol, it helps plump up the skin with intense moisture. Dry skin makes fine lines look deeper. By keeping your skin highly moisturised, this cream helps lines look softer and less noticeable.
Is Astral cream good for your face?
It depends on your skin type. If you have very dry skin, it can work well as a night cream. For normal, combination, or oily skin, it’s too heavy and may cause breakouts.
Can I use Astral cream every day?
Yes, you can use it as often as needed. Most people apply it 2-4 times a day on particularly dry areas.
Is Astral cruelty-free?
I found some retailer listings saying Astral is not tested on animals, but I couldn’t find a clear cruelty-free certification from Leaping Bunny or similar. If cruelty-free certification matters to you, I’d recommend checking directly with the brand before buying.
Does Astral cream contain parabens?
Yes, the ingredients list includes propylparaben as a preservative.
Can I use Astral on my hands?
Absolutely. It’s particularly good for dry, cracked hands. Apply after every hand wash for best results. The British Association of Dermatologists recommends using emollients frequently throughout the day to protect your hands.
How long does a pot of Astral cream last?
It depends on how much you use, but a 200ml pot typically lasts several months with daily use.
Does it work on eczema or sensitive skin?
Many people with dry skin conditions find relief with this cream because it creates a protective barrier. However, everyone’s skin is different. If you have highly sensitive skin or severe eczema, it is always a good idea to do a patch test on a small area first.
Does Astral cream clog pores?
It can clog pores for some people, particularly if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
Does this cream contain sunscreen?
No, it does not contain SPF. If you use it on your face during the day, make sure to apply a separate sunscreen over it to protect your skin from sun damage.
Can you use Astral cream overnight?
Yes, it works well as a night cream, especially for dry skin.
Can Astral cream be used as a cleanser?
Some people use it to remove makeup because of its thick texture.
Is Astral cream greasy?
It can feel greasy, especially if you use too much. Using a small amount helps.
Is Astral cream still popular?
Yes, it’s still widely used in the UK because it’s affordable and effective.
Overall Thoughts
Astral cream isn’t fancy, and it won’t win any awards for cutting-edge skincare or stylish containers. But it does exactly what it promises: it effectively moisturises dry skin at an affordable price.
Is it perfect? No. The heavy texture won’t suit everyone, and it’s not the best choice for your face if you’re prone to breakouts. But as a body moisturiser or hand cream? It’s hard to beat, especially at such a low cost.
If you grew up watching your mum slather on Astral cream, give it a try. You might just understand why she’s been loyal to that blue tub all these years.
Where to buy: Available at Boots, Superdrug, and Express Chemist. Prices start from around £1.85 for the 50ml pot.
