We put Drunk Elephant's Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.
Editor’s Note: We reviewed this article on September 17, 2023. As per our editorial policy, we are constantly updating our content, to make sure it reflects the best of the best when it comes to beauty, wellness, and fashion. We want to assure our readers that we still stand by our recommendations, which we do.
Chances are you've seen Drunk Elephant's popular face cream, Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer, appear in a number of GRWM videos, and it's for good reason. Between the brand's philosophy of creating uncomplicated products that are intended to be used solo, together, or slotted into an existing routine, and the fact that each formula consists of around six ingredients, it's no wonder so many people are hooked on Drunk Elephant. And while we all have our preferences when it comes to beauty, we're definitely drawn to the idea of a luxurious, whipped moisturizer made from good-for-you ingredients. To figure out if the Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer is worth the money, we tried it out for ourselves and tapped a board-certified dermatologist for her honest opinion. Keep reading for the full review.
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer
Best for: Those looking for a nourishing, yet lightweight moisturizer
Uses: Hydration and barrier repair
Star rating: 5/5
Potential Allergens: None
Star Ingredients: Ceramides, African oils, Phytosphingosine
About the brand: Drunk Elephant is all about creating what the brand calls "biocompatible skincare," which it defines as skincare made using only effective ingredients that benefit the health of the skin, whether they be natural or synthetic.
About the Ingredients: Nourishing and softening
Formulated with a unique blend of ingredients, this moisturizer is a deeply nourishing one. According to board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, it's especially great for those with dry skin as it contains three types of ceramides (which help support the skin barrier by keeping moisture locked in), a softening African oil blend (consisting of camellia seed and kernel oil), and phytosphingosine, a plant-derived fatty molecule that helps replenish moisture.
About the Formula: Ideal for dry skin
How do you formulate a moisturizer that feels both nourishing and non-greasy at the same time? We have no idea, but we're glad someone at Drunk Elephant knows the answer. Lala’s texture is luscious and fluffy, but it sinks into the skin quickly. The finish is matte but slightly glowy, and we love that we can feel it come off when cleansing at the end of the day. Though it's great for all skin types, Garshick recommends it for those with drier skin.
Since the formula contains a hefty dose of oils, we recommend patch testing if you're acne-prone. The oils aren't intended to clog pores, but everyone's skin is different; if you typically react to oils, you might want to sit this one out.
How to Apply: Give it time
While it's not noticeably oily, this fluffy cream does take a little time to absorb, so be patient and allow the product to dry before layering or applying makeup. (Note that you can also mix it with serum for even more moisture-boosting power).
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The Results: So supple
Having used Lala Retro for such a long time, we feel qualified to report on both its short- and long-term results. First things first: Immediately after use, our skin feels soft and hydrated. It sinks in quickly—it doesn't require much rubbing in. And even after a full day’s wear under sunscreen and makeup, it doesn’t turn greasy. As for long-term effects, the main thing we’d note is barrier repair. Our skin has become so much more resilient while using this product.
The Value: It’s spendy
While we would say it’s up there in terms of price, it’s not the most expensive moisturizer on the shelves. As anyone with a tricky skin condition can attest, when you find something that works it’s easy to convince yourself you need it. It’s rare to find a moisturizer with all the nourishing power of a richer formulation that doesn’t overwhelm skin, so we're happy to pay the price.
Meet the Experts
- Marisa Garshick, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City specializing in a wide variety of cosmetic and medical procedures and services. She is an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell - New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
Final Verdict
We're big fans of Drunk Elephant's Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer. It nourishes skin with the help of African oils and a number of ceramides and fatty acids. It's helped us with barrier repair and even imparts a healthy-looking glow we're consistently complimented on.
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