How to Use Hydrogel Cream Refill Pods for Sensitive Skin
By Honest Baby and Beauty Company | The Honest Company | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to refill your hydrogel cream with The Honest Company's refill pod. Step-by-step guide for sensitive skin, plus tips to avoid contamination and keep your moisturizer fresh.
Quick answer
To use The Honest Company hydrogel cream refill pod for sensitive skin, simply twist open your empty jar, press in the refill pod until it clicks, and discard the old pod. Always wash your hands first and avoid touching the cream surface to prevent contamination.
Why the refill pod works for sensitive skin
The Honest Company designed the Hydrogel Cream Refill Pod with sensitive skin in mind. The formula uses Jojoba esters and Squalane to hydrate and soothe, plus two types of Hyaluronic acid that bind moisture in different skin layers. This means you get gentle, non-irritating hydration without heavy fragrances or common irritants.
The refill pod system also reduces the risk of introducing bacteria compared to scooping from a jar with your fingers. Each pod is sealed until you snap it in, so the cream stays fresh and clean for every use.
Trade-off: Refill pods vs. traditional jars
Refill pods are more eco-friendly because they use less plastic than buying a whole new jar each time. However, they require a compatible base jar that you keep and reuse. If you lose or break the outer jar, you'll need to buy a new set before using another refill pod.
Also, the pod design means you cannot see how much cream is left until the pod is empty. Plan to replace it when the pump or twist mechanism no longer dispenses cream evenly.
How to refill your hydrogel cream: Step by step
- Wash your hands and prep your workspace: Clean hands prevent bacteria from transferring into the cream. Place the empty jar and new refill pod on a clean, dry surface. Do not use soap with heavy fragrances—residue can irritate sensitive skin.
- Twist open the empty jar and remove the old pod: Unscrew the lid completely. Pull out the used refill pod by gripping the edges. Dispose of it in the recycling if your local program accepts plastic pods. Check the base of the jar for any leftover cream; wipe it gently with a tissue if needed, but avoid water.
- Insert the new refill pod and press until it clicks: Align the pod with the jar opening and press down firmly. You should hear or feel a click when it locks into place. Do not twist the pod—just press straight down. If it does not click, the pod may be upside down. Flip it and try again.
- Screw the lid back on and use as usual: Close the jar tightly. Pump or twist the dispenser a few times to prime the cream. Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry skin. Store the jar away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve the formula's cooling sensation.
Product facts
- Hydrogel Cream, Refill Pod: The Hydrogel Cream Refill Pod combines Jojoba esters and Squalane to help hydrate, soothe, and soften, and 2 types of Hyaluronic acid with different molecular weights to bind and retain moisture in different layers of the skin. This multi-layer hydration is ideal for sensitive skin because it reduces the appearance of fine lines without relying on harsh active ingredients that can cause redness or stinging.
Hydrogel Cream, Refill Pod
