Loção Facial Oil Control
Loção Facial Oil Control
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight gel-cream facial moisturizer from CeraVe, developed with dermatologists and powered by oil-absorbing technology (silica + corn starch) combined with pharmaceutical-grade niacinamide (est. 5–7%) and the brand's signature trio of ceramides. Designed to deliver up to 8 hours of shine control and 48 hours of hydration for oily and combination skin types, without clogging pores or sacrificing barrier health.
Oil-Absorbing Technology
Silica and corn starch (Zea Mays Starch) physically absorb excess sebum throughout the day, extending the window between touch-ups by up to 8 hours in temperate conditions.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOil-Absorbing Technology
Silica and corn starch (Zea Mays Starch) physically absorb excess sebum throughout the day, extending the window between touch-ups by up to 8 hours in temperate conditions.
3 Essential Ceramides + Cholesterol
Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP alongside cholesterol and phytosphingosine work synergistically to replenish and reinforce the skin's natural lipid barrier — the same key lipids found in healthy skin.
High-Dose Niacinamide (5–7%)
One of the most niacinamide-forward moisturizers in the CeraVe lineup. At this level, Vitamin B3 actively downregulates sebocyte oil production over 4–8 weeks while brightening and strengthening the barrier.
MVE Delivery Technology
CeraVe's patented Multi-Vesicular Emulsion technology continuously releases ceramides and moisturizing ingredients over time, providing 48-hour hydration from a single application.
Sodium Hyaluronate (HA)
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that draws moisture from the environment into the skin's surface layer, maintaining plumpness without adding any greasiness.
Makeup-Compatible Formula
The non-greasy gel-cream texture layers seamlessly under foundation and SPF without pilling, making it an ideal primer-moisturizer for oily-skin makeup routines.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. Niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid are all considered safe during pregnancy. Consult your OB/GYN if in doubt.
Contains Isopropyl Myristate (a C14 fatty acid ester) and Cetearyl Isononanoate, which are known Malassezia-feedable ingredients. Those with active fungal acne should patch test carefully or choose an FA-safe alternative.
Completely fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free from common allergens. Phenoxyethanol is used as a gentle preservative. Suitable for reactive and sensitized skin types.
CeraVe rates this formula as non-comedogenic. The oil-absorbing powders help counteract any minor occlusive tendencies from emollients. Overall comedogenic rating: 2/5.
Can be layered over or under retinoids and exfoliating acids to support the barrier during active ingredient use. Apply this moisturizer after water-based serums and before sunscreen in the AM.
High-dose niacinamide (5–7%) can potentially form niacin with pure L-ascorbic acid at high pH, causing temporary flushing. Use them in separate routines (e.g., Vitamin C in AM, niacinamide in PM) or choose a stable Vitamin C derivative.
Does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate. No chemical UV filters of any kind. Safe for marine environments.
Listed 6th in the INCI, this emollient has a comedogenic potential rating of 3–5 in some scales. While the overall formula is non-comedogenic tested, highly breakout-prone individuals may want to patch test.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide ~5–7%Proven
Listed 2nd in the INCI — this is one of the highest niacinamide concentrations in the CeraVe lineup. At 5–7%, Vitamin B3 actively downregulates sebum production at the sebocyte level, reduces hyperpigmentation, calms inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier by stimulating ceramide synthesis.
- Oil Control: Clinically shown to reduce sebum excretion rate after 4 weeks of consistent use at concentrations of 2–5%+.
- Barrier Support: Stimulates synthesis of natural ceramides, filaggrin, and involucrin in the epidermis.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, visibly reducing dark spots and post-acne marks over 8–12 weeks.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, benefiting acne and rosacea-prone skin.
Ceramide Complex (NP + AP + EOP) ~3.2–5%Proven
CeraVe's signature trio mirrors the natural ceramide composition found in healthy human skin. Ceramide NP (~1.3–2%), Ceramide AP (~1–1.6%), and Ceramide EOP (~0.9–1.35%) are combined with cholesterol and phytosphingosine to form a complete lamellar lipid system that repairs and maintains the protective skin barrier.
- Barrier Repair: Ceramides fill intercellular "gaps" in the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Synergy: The ceramide:cholesterol:fatty acid ratio in this formula is optimized for maximum barrier restoration efficacy.
- Phytosphingosine: A precursor lipid that the skin converts into ceramides — provides both antimicrobial and barrier-building benefits.
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
A classic humectant listed 3rd in the formula. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the stratum corneum, maintaining surface hydration without adding oiliness. It also has mild emollient properties and supports the skin microbiome.
- Hydration: One of the most well-studied humectants; shown to increase skin hydration by 30–50% in controlled studies.
- Barrier: Assists in protein organization within the stratum corneum, contributing to skin softness and elasticity.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.1–0.5%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid — smaller molecular weight allows for better penetration into the upper dermis. Works in concert with glycerin to maintain a hydration reservoir in the skin throughout the day.
- Water Retention: Capable of binding up to 1,000× its weight in water.
- Plumping: Temporarily increases skin volume and reduces the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration.
Zea Mays Starch (Corn Starch) ~1–3%Proven
A key part of CeraVe's oil-absorbing technology. Corn starch particles physically adsorb excess sebum on the skin's surface, creating an immediate matte finish and extending shine control throughout the day. Works alongside silica for dual-powder oil absorption.
- Oil Absorption: Natural starch granules act as micro-sponges on the skin surface, soaking up sebum without disrupting the barrier.
- Texture: Contributes to the lightweight, non-sticky feel of the gel-cream on application.
Cholesterol + Phytosphingosine ~0.5–1%Proven
Cholesterol is a critical component of the skin's lipid bilayer, essential for maintaining barrier integrity and fluidity. Phytosphingosine is a yeast-derived sphingoid base that the skin converts to ceramides, while also providing antimicrobial benefits against acne-causing bacteria.
- Barrier Synergy: Optimal skin barrier function requires a ceramide:cholesterol:fatty acid ratio close to 1:1:1 — this formula achieves that balance.
- Antimicrobial: Phytosphingosine has been shown to inhibit Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) growth.
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate ~0.5–1%Promising
A mild surfactant-emulsifier derived from lactic acid and lauric acid. Enhances the penetration of other active ingredients, particularly ceramides and niacinamide, into the skin. Also functions as a gentle skin-conditioning agent with a low irritation profile.
- Delivery Enhancer: Acts as a mild penetration enhancer for the ceramide complex without disrupting the barrier.
- Tolerance: Well-tolerated by sensitive skin; considered one of the mildest anionic surfactants available.
28 ingredients
Water, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Cetearyl Isononanoate, C14-22 Alcohols, Isopropyl Myristate, Zea Mays Starch, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Triethyl Citrate, Silicon (Silica), Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum, Phytosphingosine, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Benzoic Acid, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based serums and before sunscreen in the morning. In the PM, use as the last step after treatments. No SPF — always follow with sunscreen in your AM routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle, oil-free cleanser to remove dirt, excess sebum, and impurities. Pat skin dry gently with a clean towel — do not rub.
Apply Treatments (Optional)
If using serums, acids, or active treatments (retinol, niacinamide serum, BHA), apply them at this step. Allow to absorb for 30–60 seconds before the moisturizer.
Prime the Pump (First Use)
On first use, press the pump 10–20 times to prime it before product appears — this is normal for the airless pump design. Do not discard; the product is fine.
Apply to Face and Neck
Dispense a pea-to-dime-sized amount (1–2 pumps) and apply in gentle upward circular motions to the face and neck. Blend well around the hairline and jaw.
Follow with Sunscreen (AM Only)
This moisturizer contains no SPF. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ over the moisturizer in the morning. Allow 1–2 minutes for the gel-cream to set before applying SPF or makeup.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin and avoid moisturizer due to shine concerns
- You need a matte base under makeup that won't pill or separate
- You want ceramide + niacinamide barrier support without heavy texture
- You use retinoids or exfoliating acids and need a gentle, reparative moisturizer
- You're looking for a fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended option at a mid-range price
- Your skin is acne-prone and you need a non-comedogenic formula with pore-minimizing actives
Consider alternatives if:
- You have dry skin — this formula will leave dry skin wanting more moisture
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — contains FA-triggering esters
- You need SPF in your moisturizer — this product has no sun protection
- You require very heavy-duty oil control in hot, humid climates — mattifying effect lasts 4–6 hours in extreme heat
- You are highly sensitive to isopropyl myristate and have a history of it breaking you out
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe primary target skin type. Oil-absorbing silica + corn starch deliver up to 8 hours of shine control. Niacinamide at 5–7% progressively reduces baseline sebum production over 4–8 weeks.
Balances the T-zone effectively without over-drying cheeks. The ceramide system provides sufficient moisture for drier zones while the powders manage shine on oily areas.
Non-comedogenic formula with anti-inflammatory niacinamide and phytosphingosine (antimicrobial). Note: isopropyl myristate may trigger breakouts in highly sensitive acne-prone skin — patch test recommended.
Completely fragrance-free and free from common allergens. Low irritation profile (validated by WIMJ Science: irritation potential: Low). Suitable for reactive skin, though patch testing is always recommended for new products.
Not recommended as a standalone moisturizer for dry skin. The gel-cream texture and oil-absorbing particles are insufficient for dry skin's needs. Consider CeraVe Moisturizing Cream instead.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Instant Matte Finish & Shine Control
Upon application, the silica and corn starch particles deliver an immediate matte finish. Skin feels refreshed, balanced, and non-greasy. Shine control visible from the first use — no break-in period required.
~92% noticed immediate matte effectImproved Hydration & Barrier Comfort
The ceramide complex and hyaluronic acid begin visibly improving skin comfort, reducing tightness after cleansing. Skin feels consistently moisturized throughout the day without greasiness.
~78% reported improved hydration balancePore Minimization & Reduced Shine Frequency
Niacinamide at 5–7% begins to measurably reduce sebum production. Users report needing less powder, fewer blotting sessions, and noticeably smaller-looking pores as oil production at the source starts to decrease.
~65% noticed reduced pore appearanceBrightening, Dark Spot Fading & Long-Term Oil Balance
Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation begin to fade as niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer. Baseline oil production is reduced. Skin appears more even-toned, clearer, and more consistently balanced throughout the day.
~58% noticed improved skin tone evennessRatings by platform
15K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- One of the highest niacinamide concentrations (5–7%) in a drugstore moisturizer
- Dual oil-absorbing technology (silica + corn starch) for extended shine control
- Complete ceramide barrier system (NP + AP + EOP + cholesterol + phytosphingosine)
- Completely fragrance-free and non-comedogenic tested
- Lightweight gel-cream texture layers perfectly under makeup — no pilling
- MVE delivery technology for sustained 48-hour hydration release
- Pregnancy safe, dermatologist recommended
- Affordable mid-range price compared to specialty oil-control moisturizers
Criticized
- Contains Isopropyl Myristate — may trigger breakouts in highly acne-prone skin
- NOT fungal acne safe — contains Malassezia-feedable fatty acid esters
- Pump requires 10–20 primes on first use before product dispenses
- Mattifying effect in very hot/humid climates fades after 4–6 hours
- No SPF — requires a separate sunscreen step in AM routine
- Insufficient for dry skin — too lightweight as a sole moisturizer
- 52ml size may feel small for daily face + neck use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHyaluronic acid-based gel moisturizer for oily skin with a similar lightweight, fast-absorbing texture and non-comedogenic claim. Lacks ceramides and niacinamide, so barrier-repair benefits are less comprehensive. Good shine control via gel texture, but no physical oil-absorbing powders. FA-safe formula.
Contains niacinamide as a key active in a lightweight moisturizer format, but at a lower concentration (~2%) and without ceramides or physical oil-absorbing technology. More budget-friendly for niacinamide benefits alone, but lacks the multi-mechanism oil control and barrier repair of CeraVe. Simpler formula.
A well-formulated oil-free moisturizer with niacinamide and antioxidants. Similar matte finish and non-comedogenic positioning. Higher price per ml than CeraVe, and lacks the ceramide system and MVE delivery technology. Better for those who want a simpler ingredient list without corn starch or complex emulsifiers.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol (12M) on the packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C / 77°F. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Do not freeze.
Airless pump dispenser. Hygienic and minimizes oxidation of the formula. Prime pump 10–20 times on first use.
52ml size is TSA/airline compliant (under 100ml). The 88ml full-size must be checked in luggage for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, CeraVe Loção Facial Oil Control is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula does not contain any ingredients classified as unsafe during pregnancy, including retinoids (retinol, tretinoin), salicylic acid at exfoliating concentrations, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All key actives — niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin, and sodium hyaluronate — are regarded as safe by dermatologists for use during pregnancy. As always, consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist for personalized guidance.
No — with caution. CeraVe Loção Facial Oil Control is NOT fully fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. It contains Cetearyl Isononanoate and Isopropyl Myristate, which are fatty acid esters known to feed the Malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. Additionally, C14-22 Alcohols include fatty alcohols that some FA-safe resources flag. If you have active fungal acne or are prone to it, consider a fully FA-safe alternative like Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel or Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer.
Yes, with some notes. This moisturizer is an excellent companion to retinoids — it provides the ceramide barrier support needed to buffer potential irritation from retinol/tretinoin use. Apply retinol first, allow to absorb, then apply this moisturizer (or use the sandwich technique: moisturizer → retinol → moisturizer). With AHA/BHA acids, apply the exfoliant first and follow with this as your moisturizer. For Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), use it in your AM routine and this product in your PM routine to avoid the theoretical niacinamide-niacin interaction at high concentrations. Stable Vitamin C derivatives (ascorbyl glucoside, etc.) have no known interaction with niacinamide.
CeraVe Loção Facial Oil Control is best suited for oily and combination skin types. It was specifically formulated to address excess sebum production while maintaining healthy hydration levels. It is also suitable for acne-prone skin (though patch testing is recommended due to isopropyl myristate) and sensitive skin (fragrance-free, low irritation). It is not recommended for dry skin, as the lightweight gel-cream formula and oil-absorbing powders will likely be insufficient to meet dry skin's hydration needs.
Results happen in stages. Immediately upon first use, you will notice an instant matte finish from the silica and corn starch oil-absorbing technology. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, skin hydration balance and barrier comfort improve noticeably. The key oil-control benefit from niacinamide (5–7%) builds progressively: most users notice reduced pore appearance and fewer midday touch-ups needed by weeks 4–6, as niacinamide begins downregulating sebocyte oil production at the source. Brightening and dark spot fading benefits become visible at 8–12 weeks of consistent daily use.
Apply CeraVe Loção Facial Oil Control as your moisturizer step — after cleansing, toning, and any water-based serums or treatments, but before sunscreen in the morning. The routine order is: Cleanser → Toner/Essence → Serum/Active Treatment → CeraVe Oil Control (this product) → Sunscreen SPF 30+ (AM only). In the PM routine, it can be your final step after treatments. It is suitable for both morning and evening use.
CeraVe rates this formula as non-comedogenic, and the overall comedogenic rating is 2/5. The oil-absorbing powders (silica and corn starch) actually help counteract any potential pore-clogging tendency. However, the formula contains Isopropyl Myristate (listed 6th), which has a comedogenic rating of 3–5 on some ingredient scales. While the finished formula has been tested as non-comedogenic, individuals who are highly sensitive to isopropyl myristate and have experienced it breaking them out in other products may want to patch test this moisturizer on a small area for 1–2 weeks before full-face use.
CeraVe Loção Facial Oil Control has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months — look for the open jar symbol marked "12M" on the packaging. Before opening, the unopened product typically has a shelf life of 2–3 years when stored correctly. To maximize shelf life, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, and avoid introducing water or other contaminants into the airless pump. The pump dispenser design helps protect the formula from oxidation and contamination.
Verdict: CeraVe Loção Facial Oil Control is one of the most scientifically complete oil-control moisturizers available at a mid-range price point. It uniquely combines dual physical oil-absorption (silica + corn starch) with pharmaceutical-grade niacinamide (est. 5–7%) and CeraVe's signature ceramide barrier system — attacking excess shine from multiple angles while maintaining skin health rather than sacrificing it. For oily and combination skin types who want real, cumulative oil control alongside robust barrier support, this is a top-tier recommendation. The main caveats are its non-suitability for fungal acne, the presence of isopropyl myristate for highly breakout-prone skin, and its insufficient hydration for dry skin types. But for its target audience, it's a rare formula that delivers exactly what it promises.
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.
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
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Isononanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
C14-22 Alcohols
Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Myristate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 0 |
Zea Mays Starch
Absorbent, Skin Protecting
|
|






