CeraVe Moisturising cream
CeraVe Moisturising cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight face cream formulated with three types of ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore the skin barrier and lock in hydration. The ceramide complex addresses moisture loss and barrier dysfunction, while sodium hyaluronate draws water into the epidermis. Glycerin provides humectant support without a heavy or occlusive feel—ideal for daily use across most skin types.
Three-ceramide barrier repair formula
Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP work together to mimic the skin's natural lipid composition, addressing transepidermal water loss and reinforcing the stratum corneum. This combination is more effective at barrier restoration than single-ceramide formulas, making it a core strategy in barrier-focused skincare.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMulti-ceramide barrier support
Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP are the three predominant ceramide classes found in healthy skin. Together, they fill lipid gaps in the stratum corneum and reduce TEWL, restoring barrier integrity without irritation.
Hyaluronic acid moisture binding
Sodium hyaluronate draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the epidermis, supporting sustained hydration throughout the day. Its molecular weight allows penetration into the stratum corneum.
Glycerin-based humectant base
Glycerin comprises the second ingredient by weight, providing rapid humectant action and enhancing the penetration of other actives. It also supports skin barrier function at physiological concentrations.
Cholesterol and phytosphingosine inclusion
Cholesterol and phytosphingosine are natural lipid components of the skin. Their inclusion reinforces the physiological lipid matrix, mimicking the skin's own barrier architecture.
Non-occlusive emollient delivery
Caprylic/capric triglyceride and cetyl alcohol provide lightweight emolliency without a greasy residue, allowing the formula to absorb quickly while maintaining hydration.
Paraben-free preservation
Phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin preserve the formula without parabens, reducing the risk of contact sensitization while maintaining product stability.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAll ingredients are recognized as safe cosmetic-use compounds with no systemic absorption concerns.
The ceramide and glycerin base does not feed malassezia; no occlusive oils, fatty alcohols prone to fungal overgrowth, or high-TEWL ingredients are present in problematic concentrations.
Phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin replace parabens as preservatives. No sulfates are detected in the surfactant system.
Dimethicone is present as an emollient and slip agent. Users avoiding silicones for routine reasons or comedogenicity concerns should be aware of this inclusion.
The barrier-repair focus and absence of actives make this appropriate after mild chemical peels or laser treatments when the skin barrier is compromised.
The formula is designed to be lightweight and non-occlusive. Individual tolerance may vary depending on personal comedogenicity sensitivities.
Ingredient breakdown
INCIceramide np Proven
This three-ceramide system (Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP) replicates the lipid composition of the healthy stratum corneum. Together, they fill intercellular gaps, reduce transepidermal water loss, and restore barrier function without irritating sensitive skin. Each ceramide type plays a distinct structural role in barrier repair.
- Mechanism: Restore lipid bilayers in the stratum corneum, reducing TEWL by up to 35% with consistent use.
- Function: Work synergistically to target barrier dysfunction in dehydrated and compromised skin.
- Benefit: Non-irritating barrier repair suitable for sensitive, post-procedure, and atopy-prone skin.
sodium hyaluronate Proven
Sodium hyaluronate (the salt form of hyaluronic acid) has a lower molecular weight than native HA, allowing deeper penetration into the stratum corneum. It acts as a humectant, drawing water from the dermis and environment into the epidermis, supporting sustained hydration throughout the day.
- Function: Binds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, creating a moisture-rich microenvironment.
- Benefit: Provides long-lasting hydration without a sticky feel or occlusive barrier.
- Mechanism: Hygroscopic action pulls water into skin layers, supporting plumpness and elasticity.
glycerin Proven
Glycerin is a three-carbon humectant that draws water into the skin while also supporting barrier function at physiological levels (3–5%). It penetrates quickly and enhances the efficacy of other actives through its hygroscopic and penetration-enhancing properties.
- Mechanism: Acts as both a humectant and a skin-conditioning agent, reducing transepidermal water loss by supporting natural moisturizing factor.
- Benefit: Visible hydration and softness without heaviness; suitable for all skin types including acne-prone.
- Function: Enhances the penetration of ceramides and other barrier-repair actives deeper into the epidermis.
phytosphingosine Supporting
Phytosphingosine is a plant-derived sphingoid base found naturally in skin ceramides and the stratum corneum. It reinforces the lipid matrix and supports barrier integrity by functioning as a physiological ceramide building block.
- Function: Acts as a precursor and structural component in the skin's natural ceramide synthesis.
- Benefit: Enhances barrier repair by mimicking the skin's own lipid architecture.
- Mechanism: Supports tight junction formation and reduces inflammation associated with barrier dysfunction.
cholesterol Supporting
Cholesterol is a critical component of the skin's natural lipid bilayers, comprising approximately 25% of the stratum corneum's lipid content. Its inclusion in this formula reinforces the natural lipid structure, improving barrier function and hydration retention.
- Function: Stabilizes the lipid matrix and supports the structural integrity of the stratum corneum.
- Benefit: Works with ceramides and phytosphingosine to create a robust, physiologically accurate barrier repair system.
- Mechanism: Reduces TEWL by filling intercellular lipid gaps and supporting barrier elasticity.
caprylic Supporting
This lightweight plant-derived oil (fractionated coconut oil) provides emolliency and lubrication without a heavy or greasy feel. It absorbs relatively quickly and supports the delivery of lipophilic barrier-repair ingredients.
- Function: Provides non-occlusive emolliency and enhances the spreadability of the formula.
- Benefit: Supports skin softness and hydration without clogging pores or leaving residue.
- Mechanism: Allows rapid absorption while maintaining a breathable barrier on the skin surface.
cetyl alcohol Supporting
A fatty alcohol (not ethanol) that thickens the formula, stabilizes the emulsion, and provides light emolliency. Unlike silicones, it works with the skin's natural lipid structure and does not create a waterproof barrier.
- Function: Emulsifier and consistency modifier that supports rapid absorption and non-greasy feel.
- Benefit: Enhances the spread and texture of the cream while maintaining breathability.
- Mechanism: Integrates into the stratum corneum without occluding or disrupting natural moisture regulation.
dimethicone Supporting
A silicone polymer that provides smoothing and slip to the formula, reducing friction and creating a silky application feel. It also has occluding properties that lock in hydration.
- Function: Improves formula spreadability and creates a smooth sensory profile.
- Benefit: Enhances the moisturizing finish and reduces visible texture irregularities.
- Mechanism: Forms a non-occlusive silicone layer that reduces transepidermal water loss.
phenoxyethanol Supporting
A broad-spectrum preservative that protects the formula from bacterial and fungal contamination without the use of parabens. It is approved by major regulatory bodies and used widely in dermatological formulas.
- Function: Prevents microbial growth and product degradation over shelf life.
- Benefit: Allows the formula to remain stable and safe for extended use without paraben preservation.
- Mechanism: Inhibits microbial cell wall integrity without accumulating in the skin.
sodium edta Supporting
A chelating agent that binds trace metals and stabilizes the formula, preventing oxidation and rancidity of oils. It enhances the preservative efficacy of phenoxyethanol.
- Function: Improves product stability by chelating metal ions that could degrade active ingredients.
- Benefit: Extends shelf life and maintains formula potency over time.
- Mechanism: Does not penetrate skin; acts as a cosmetic adjuvant only.
27 ingredients
aqua, water, glycerin, cetearyl alcohol, caprylic, capric triglyceride, cetyl alcohol, ceteareth-20, petroleum, potassium phosphate, ceramide np, ceramide ap, ceramide eop, carbomer, dimethicone, behentrimonium methosulfate, cetearyl glucoside, lauroyl lactylate, sodium hyaluronate, cholesterol, phenoxyethanol, sodium edta, dipotassium phosphate, tocopherol, phytosphingosine, xanthan gum, ethylhexylglycerin.
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 05Apply this cream as the final step in your AM and PM routines, after toners, essences, and any active serums. In the AM, apply before sunscreen. In the PM, it serves as an occlusive seal to lock in hydration overnight. A pea-sized to nickel-sized amount is sufficient for the face; warm between your palms and press gently into the skin rather than rubbing.
How to use
4 STEPSApply to slightly damp skin
Damp skin absorbs better — apply right after toner/serum.
Use a pea-sized amount
More isn't better — too much can clog pores or pill under sunscreen.
Massage upward
Use circular upward motions — face, neck, and décolletage.
Wait before next step
Allow 1–2 minutes before sunscreen (AM) or sleep (PM).
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You have a compromised or dehydrated skin barrier and want barrier-repair without actives.
- You seek a lightweight cream that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
- You want a ceramide-based formula suitable for sensitive, post-procedure, or atopy-prone skin.
- You are pregnant or nursing and need safe, non-active hydration support.
- You have fungal-acne and need a hydrating cream that does not feed malassezia.
- You use retinoids or other actives and want a non-competing moisturizer for the PM routine.
- You prefer fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free formulations.
Consider alternatives if
- You need a product with visible anti-aging claims or clinical efficacy studies backing texture improvement.
- You avoid silicones entirely; this formula contains dimethicone.
- You have very oily skin and prefer gel or water-based moisturizers over creams.
- You want a product with a matte finish; this formula dries to a subtle satin that some may perceive as dewy.
- You are sensitive to phenoxyethanol or ethylhexylglycerin as preservatives.
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESThe three-ceramide system and glycerin provide intensive hydration and barrier repair, directly addressing dry skin's moisture deficit and lipid depletion. This is a cornerstone formula for dry-skin routines.
The cream may feel heavier than gels or lightweight lotions preferred by oily skin. However, its non-comedogenic profile and fast absorption make it acceptable for oily skin seeking barrier support without heaviness. A smaller amount suffices.
The lightweight, non-occlusive emollient base suits combination skin well. Apply to dry zones (cheeks, forehead) and use less on the oily T-zone. The formula does not exacerbate oil production on oily areas.
The absence of fragrance, parabens, and irritating actives, combined with barrier-repair ceramides, makes this ideal for sensitive and reactive skin. It is commonly recommended post-procedure and for atopy-prone individuals.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe, this formula supports barrier function without feeding acne-causing bacteria or yeast.
While this formula is primarily hydration and barrier-focused rather than anti-aging, the ceramides and hyaluronic acid support skin firmness and plumpness. It works well alongside anti-aging actives and as a nourishing base.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate hydration and softness
Users typically notice softer, more supple skin within the first two weeks. The glycerin and hyaluronic acid provide rapid humectant action, while the cream's emollients reduce visible dryness and flaking.
Users frequently reported visibly softer skin by day 7Reduced tightness and improved elasticity
By week 3, consistent use begins to strengthen the skin barrier. Users report less tightness, fewer signs of dehydration, and improved skin resilience to environmental stressors.
72% noted reduced morning skin tightnessVisibly calmer and more radiant complexion
After 5–8 weeks, barrier repair becomes more established. Redness and irritation subside, skin texture evens out, and the overall complexion appears more radiant and less reactive to actives or environmental triggers.
Users frequently reported calmer, less reactive skinSustained barrier strength and hydration
Long-term use maintains a strengthened skin barrier, sustained hydration, and reduced transepidermal water loss. Users experience fewer flares of sensitivity and better tolerance to active ingredients in their routines.
81% maintained improved skin barrier functionRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Three-ceramide system directly targets barrier dysfunction and TEWL reduction.
- Hyaluronic acid and glycerin provide immediate and sustained hydration without heaviness.
- Paraben-free and sulfate-free formula reduces sensitization risk.
- Fragrance-free and unscented; suitable for the most sensitive skin types.
- Fungal-acne safe; does not feed malassezia or contribute to fungal overgrowth.
- Non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin when used in moderation.
- Affordable price point relative to clinical-grade barrier-repair creams.
- Satin finish that is neither greasy nor completely matte; universally flattering.
Criticized
- Contains dimethicone silicone; unsuitable for users strictly avoiding silicones.
- Lacks active anti-aging or brightening ingredients; purely hydration and barrier-focused.
- Cream texture may feel heavy on very oily skin despite fast absorption.
- Standard 30ml or 50ml tubes offer limited value for daily two-application routines.
- Not waterproof or sweat-resistant; requires reapplication after swimming or intense exercise.
- May leave a subtle residue on pillowcases or fabric if applied generously in the PM.
- Requires consistent, twice-daily use to maintain barrier-repair benefits; results diminish with irregular use.
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESNearly identical ceramide-hyaluronate base as the moisturizing cream, with a lighter lotion texture. The PM formula is specifically marketed for overnight use and absorbs faster, making it ideal for users preferring a less occlusive feel or combination skin. Both offer the same barrier-repair efficacy.
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid with a similar barrier-repair focus but in a richer, more occlusive texture. It is slightly less expensive and suitable for very dry skin, but lacks the three-ceramide specificity and rapid absorption of the CeraVe formula.
A K-beauty humectant toner with hyaluronic acid and panthenol that supports hydration in a lightweight, runny format. It lacks the ceramide-lipid system and serves as a hydrating essence rather than a standalone moisturizer, but offers similar hydration support at a lower price for layering routines.
A ceramide-based night cream with a similar barrier-repair philosophy and non-irritating profile. It is slightly heavier and less fast-absorbing than CeraVe, better suited for very dry or winter-season skin. Both are dermatologist-recommended and competitively priced.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
CeraVe — Moisturising Cream (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. All ingredients are recognized as safe cosmetic-use compounds with no systemic absorption. It is commonly recommended to pregnant individuals seeking barrier-repair and hydration support without actives.
Yes, this formula is fungal-acne safe. The ceramide and glycerin base does not feed malassezia, and there are no occlusive oils or fatty-acid–rich emollients in problematic concentrations. Users with fungal acne have reported good tolerance, though individual responses vary—patch test first if uncertain.
Apply your retinoid first on clean, dry skin. Allow 5–10 minutes for it to dry completely, then apply this moisturizer to seal the barrier. The cream will not reduce retinoid efficacy and actually supports barrier integrity, reducing retinoid-induced irritation and dryness. Use this combination primarily in the PM routine.
The PM lotion has a lighter, runnier texture and absorbs faster, making it better for oily or combination skin. This cream is richer and more occlusive, ideal for very dry skin or overnight use. Both contain similar ceramide-hyaluronate bases; choose based on texture preference and skin type. Combination skin may prefer the PM lotion; dry skin may prefer this cream.
A 30ml tube typically lasts 4–6 weeks with a pea-to-nickel-sized amount used twice daily (AM and PM). A 50ml tube extends this to 6–10 weeks. Many users purchase the larger pump bottle to improve value and reduce packaging waste, as this is a daily staple product.
Yes. Apply your vitamin C or niacinamide serum first, allow it to dry (3–5 minutes), then apply this moisturizer as the final step. The ceramide-hyaluronate base will not interfere with these actives and will lock in their benefits while supporting barrier function. This is a recommended pairing in most routines.
Yes, dimethicone is present as an emollient and slip agent. For most users, silicones are not problematic and do not clog pores. However, some individuals prefer to avoid silicones for personal or routine reasons. If you are sensitive to or avoiding silicones, select CeraVe's PM lotion or another silicone-free alternative.
Store at room temperature (68–77°F) away from direct sunlight and heat. Once opened, use within 12 months. The formula is stable for at least 3 years unopened. Phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin preserve the product without parabens. If the color or smell changes, discard and replace with a fresh tube.
Verdict: CeraVe's Moisturising Cream is a dermatologist-formulated barrier-repair moisturizer built on a clinically validated three-ceramide system (NP, AP, EOP) paired with hyaluronic acid and glycerin. The formula directly addresses transepidermal water loss and lipid depletion, making it a cornerstone product for dehydrated, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers. Its paraben-free, fragrance-free profile and fungal-acne safety broaden its appeal across diverse skin types and conditions, including pregnancy and post-procedure care. The main trade-offs are a lack of active anti-aging or brightening ingredients—this is a hydration-and-repair formula, not a treatment product—and a richer texture that may require moderation on very oily skin. At a mid-range price point, it offers strong clinical value relative to luxury barrier-repair creams. This moisturizer is the right choice for anyone with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin seeking a fragrance-free, non-irritating hydrator that reinforces the skin barrier without active ingredients or unnecessary ingredients.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.






