Moisturizer · $18
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
A thick, fragrance-free occlusive cream built around three skin-identical ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a slow-release MVE delivery system. It is the reference point most barrier creams are compared against, largely because the formula is simple, the tub is large, and the price per ounce is low.
Key ingredients
- Ceramides NP, AP, EOP
- The three lipid types most depleted in dry and over-exfoliated skin. Percentages are not published, but they appear high enough in the list to be functional rather than decorative.
- Hyaluronic acid
- Humectant that draws water into the upper layers; works best applied to slightly damp skin and sealed by the cream's occlusive base.
- Cholesterol and phytosphingosine
- Supporting lipids that make the ceramide content more physiologically complete.
- Petrolatum
- Listed high in the formula — the reason it seals so effectively and also the reason it feels heavy.
Texture and finish
Thick and slightly waxy out of the tub, spreading into a satin, non-tacky film. It takes a minute to absorb and leaves a noticeable barrier layer, which is the intent.
It suits you if
- Your skin is dry, tight, or flaking, especially in winter
- You are rebuilding a barrier after over-exfoliating
- You need a body cream and a face cream in one tub
- You react to fragrance or essential oils
Skip it if
- Your skin is oily or you break out from heavy occlusives
- You want something lightweight under makeup
- You dislike petrolatum-based textures
Pros
- Fragrance-free and free of essential oils
- Complete ceramide-plus-cholesterol lipid profile
- Very low cost per ounce; widely stocked
- Non-comedogenic labelling and a long history of dermatologist recommendation
Cons
- Too heavy for oily skin and hot climates
- Tub packaging means fingers in the product
- Contains no actives — it repairs and protects, it does not treat
How to use it
- 1Apply to slightly damp skin after cleansing and any serums.
- 2Use a pea-to-almond amount for the face; more for the body.
- 3As a retinoid buffer, apply a thin layer before and after the retinoid.
Where it fits in a routine
Final step at night for dry or compromised skin, or as the moisturizer layer under sunscreen in cold weather.
See the dry-skin routineMore breakdowns
This breakdown is based on publicly available ingredient lists and manufacturer information. It is general skincare information, not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for a dermatologist's assessment of your skin.