Intensive Moisturizing Lotion
Intensive Moisturizing Lotion
Product Description
A dermatologist-developed intensive body lotion featuring 5% Hydro-Ureaβ’ and 3 essential ceramides with MVE Delivery Technology, designed to provide 72-hour hydration while relieving five key signs of dryness: itching, tightness, roughness, flaking, and redness.
β¨ Texture & Feel
MVE Delivery Technology
Patented controlled-release system that continuously delivers moisturizing ingredients throughout the day for sustained hydration.
5% Hydro-Ureaβ’ Complex
Proprietary blend of natural moisturizing factors including hydroxyethyl urea to deeply hydrate and replenish skin's moisture barrier.
3 Essential Ceramides
Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP work together to restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier function.
Shea Butter Enriched
Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, shea butter provides deep nourishment while softening rough, dry skin.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe to use during pregnancy and while nursing.
Contains fatty acids, esters (isopropyl palmitate), and polysorbate 80 which may feed malassezia yeast.
Most ingredients are non-comedogenic. Rated 1/5 on comedogenic scale. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and pH-balanced. Suitable for sensitive skin and eczema-prone skin.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Hydroxyethyl Urea (Hydro-Ureaβ’) 5% Proven
A gentler derivative of urea that serves as a humectant and natural moisturizing factor. Hydrates by drawing water into the skin without the potential irritation of pure urea.
- Hydration: Attracts and binds moisture to the stratum corneum
- Barrier Support: Replenishes the skin's natural moisturizing factors
- Gentle: More tolerable than traditional urea for sensitive skin
𧬠Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) Proven
Three essential ceramides that are naturally found in healthy skin. They make up about 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier and are crucial for maintaining hydration and protection.
- Barrier Repair: Restore and strengthen compromised skin barriers
- Moisture Lock: Prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Protection: Shield skin from environmental stressors
πΏ Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii) Proven
A rich plant lipid from the shea tree fruit that provides intense moisturization and skin softening benefits. High in stearic and oleic fatty acids.
- Emollient: Creates protective film that traps moisture
- Antioxidant: Contains vitamins A and E to fight free radicals
- Anti-inflammatory: Soothes irritated, dry skin
π Sodium Hyaluronate Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Helps plump and hydrate skin at multiple levels.
- Hydration: Draws moisture from environment into skin
- Plumping: Improves skin texture and smoothness
- Well-Tolerated: Naturally found in skin, very low irritation potential
45 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Isopropyl Palmitate, Propanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Octyldodecanol, C15-19 Alkane, Glycine, Stearic Acid, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Sorbitan Tristearate, Sorbitan Oleate, Carbomer, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethicone, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Triethyl Citrate, Isohexadecane, Sodium PCA, Serine, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hydroxide, Myristic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Palmitic Acid, Alanine, Tocopherol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Phytosphingosine, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Polysorbate 80, Benzoic Acid, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply to slightly damp skin after bathing for best absorption. Can be used on hands, elbows, knees, heels, and feet.
π How to Use
Cleanse Skin
Shower or bathe with a gentle, moisturizing cleanser. Avoid hot water which can strip skin's natural oils.
Pat Dry (Mostly)
Gently pat skin with a towel, leaving it slightly damp. This helps lock in extra moisture.
Apply Liberally
Dispense a generous amount and massage into skin using upward, circular motions. Focus on extra-dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels.
Use Daily
Apply twice daily (morning and evening) for best results. Can be reapplied as needed throughout the day.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry to very dry skin
- You experience itching, flaking, or roughness
- You need long-lasting hydration (72+ hours)
- You have sensitive or eczema-prone skin
- You want a fragrance-free formula
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You need a non-greasy body lotion
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very oily skin
- You prefer scented products
- You need a lightweight gel texture
- You have sensitivity to fatty alcohols
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Specifically formulated for dry to very dry skin. Hydro-Urea and ceramides deeply nourish and repair damaged barrier.
Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and pH-balanced. Gentle enough for reactive and eczema-prone skin.
Provides excellent hydration maintenance. May feel rich but absorbs well without greasiness.
Works well on body skin. Fast-absorbing formula balances well across different areas.
May feel too rich for very oily skin. Consider the regular Daily Moisturizing Lotion instead.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) but not fungal acne safe. Patch test recommended for acne-prone users.
π Results Timeline
Instant Relief
Fast-acting formula soothes dry, itchy skin upon application. Skin feels softer and more comfortable immediately.
95% noticed immediate reliefDeep Hydration
MVE Technology delivers continuous hydration. Skin maintains moisture levels for up to 72 hours between applications.
2x increase in skin hydrationVisible Improvement
Noticeable reduction in flaking, scaling, and roughness. Skin appears smoother and healthier-looking.
42% increase in barrier functionRestored Barrier
Significant improvement in skin barrier function. Reduced redness and irritation from dryness. Skin feels resilient.
85% reported healthier-looking skinβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- 72-hour long-lasting hydration
- Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula
- Fragrance-free and gentle
- Contains 5% Hydro-Urea for intense moisture
- 3 essential ceramides for barrier repair
- Dermatologist developed and recommended
- Affordable pharmacy brand pricing
- Relieves 5 signs of dryness
β Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe
- May be too rich for humid climates
- Newer product with fewer reviews than classics
- Contains fatty alcohols (some sensitivities)
- Squeeze bottle less convenient than pump
- Higher price point than regular CeraVe lotion
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains urea and ceramides for similar hydration benefits. Slightly thicker texture but comparable 48-hour hydration claims.
Higher urea concentration (10%) for more intense exfoliation. Contains shea butter and niacinamide. French pharmacy alternative.
Simpler formula without urea. Ultra-gentle and ideal for extremely sensitive skin. Free from common irritants.
Contains vitamins A, C, E plus shea butter. More affordable but contains fragrance. Good for general dry skin.
π Comparison with Competitors
CeraVe Intensive Moisturizing Lotion
$17.99La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M
$22.99Eucerin Advanced Repair
$9.99Aveeno Skin Relief
$9.64π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme heat.
Squeeze bottle (8oz, 16oz sizes available)
8oz size exceeds TSA limits. Transfer to travel container for flights.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this lotion is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens that are typically avoided during pregnancy. The formula uses gentle, skin-identical ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid that are safe for expecting and nursing mothers.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can potentially feed malassezia yeast, including isopropyl palmitate (an ester), polysorbate 80, and fatty acids from shea butter. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Vanicream or specifically formulated fungal-safe moisturizers.
Yes, this lotion pairs well with most active ingredients. Its barrier-supporting ceramides and hydrating properties can help soothe skin irritation from retinol or chemical exfoliants. Apply actives first, wait for absorption, then follow with this lotion. The gentle formula helps counteract dryness from strong treatments.
This lotion is specifically formulated for dry to very dry skin. It's excellent for those experiencing itching, flaking, roughness, or tightness due to dryness. It's also suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin thanks to its fragrance-free, allergy-tested formula. Those with oily skin may find it too rich.
Results are often immediateβskin feels softer and more comfortable after the first application. Within 24-72 hours, you'll notice sustained hydration from the MVE Technology. After 1 week of consistent use, expect visible reduction in flaking and roughness. Full barrier repair benefits are typically seen within 2-4 weeks.
As a body lotion, apply it after cleansing/bathing while skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture. For body care: shower β pat dry β apply lotion. It can be used on hands, elbows, knees, heels, and feet. Use morning and evening for best results, or as often as needed throughout the day.
This lotion has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. While it's primarily designed as a body lotion, its non-comedogenic profile means it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. However, individual reactions varyβthose prone to body acne should patch test first. For facial use, CeraVe offers specifically formulated facial moisturizers.
Once opened, this lotion is good to use for up to 12 months (12M PAO). Unopened, CeraVe products have a shelf life of approximately 3 years when stored at room temperature. Look for the PAO symbol (open jar icon) on the packaging. Discard if you notice changes in texture, color, or smell.
Verdict: CeraVe Intensive Moisturizing Lotion is an excellent choice for those battling very dry, itchy skin. The 5% Hydro-Urea complex combined with three essential ceramides and MVE Technology delivers impressive 72-hour hydration without greasiness. While not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin, it's pregnancy-safe, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-developed. At its price point, it offers professional-grade barrier repair that rivals more expensive pharmacy brands. Highly recommended for dry to very dry skin types seeking intensive, long-lasting relief.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Hydroxyethyl Urea
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Palmitate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Masking
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|