Moisturising Lotion Normal To Very Dry Skin
Moisturising Lotion Normal To Very Dry Skin
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, dermatologist-developed body and face lotion with three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and patented MVE Technology that delivers 24-hour hydration while restoring and maintaining the skin's natural protective barrier. Ideal for normal to very dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin.
3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Phytosphingosine to restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Phytosphingosine to restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier.
MVE Technology
Patented MultiVesicular Emulsion Technology ensures a controlled, slow release of moisturizing ingredients for up to 24 hours.
Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Hyaluronate attracts and retains moisture at the skin's surface, keeping skin plump and hydrated throughout the day.
Developed with Dermatologists
Formulated with dermatologists and accepted by the National Eczema Association. Suitable for eczema-prone and sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Completely safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and fatty alcohols (Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol) which may feed malassezia yeast in susceptible individuals. Patch test recommended.
Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Holds the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and non-irritating.
Safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. Its barrier-supporting formula helps buffer irritation from actives.
The EU version (reviewed here) uses Phenoxyethanol instead of parabens. Ingredient order and preservatives differ slightly between regions.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide NP + Ceramide APProven
Two of the three essential ceramides in this formula. Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the skin that make up over 50% of the skin barrier. They prevent moisture loss and protect against environmental damage.
- Function: Barrier repair, moisture retention, and skin protection
- Research: Ceramide-containing moisturizers have been shown to significantly improve skin barrier function in clinical studies
- Benefit: Restores compromised skin barriers in conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and over-exfoliated skin
Glycerin ~5%Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, keeping skin hydrated and supple.
- Source: Second ingredient in the formula, estimated at approximately 5%
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0/5 — does not clog pores at all
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular weight, allowing better penetration into the skin. Attracts and holds up to 1000 times its weight in water for deep hydration.
- Function: Humectant that draws water into the skin and improves elasticity
- Benefit: Plumps skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and improves overall skin texture
- Note: Listed lower in the INCI list, so present at a lower concentration — works synergistically with glycerin
Cholesterol + PhytosphingosineProven
Essential lipid components that work alongside ceramides to form the mortar between skin cells. Cholesterol and phytosphingosine are critical for a fully functional skin barrier.
- Function: Complete the ceramide-cholesterol-fatty acid ratio needed for optimal barrier repair
- Research: Studies show that moisturizers with all three lipid types (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids) repair barriers faster than those missing components
DimethiconeProven
A silicone-based emollient that creates a breathable protective layer on the skin. Locks in moisture, smooths skin texture, and gives the lotion its non-greasy, silky finish.
- Function: Occlusive emollient — prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Safety: Non-comedogenic (rating 1), non-irritating, and widely used in dermatological formulations
24 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 20, Ceteareth-20, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Phosphate, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Phosphate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening. Apply to face and body after cleansing while skin is still slightly damp for best absorption. Can be used as your sole moisturizer in humid climates or layered under a heavier cream in dry/cold weather.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash face and/or body with a gentle cleanser (such as CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser). Pat skin until slightly damp — do not fully dry.
Apply Serums (Optional)
If using any water-based serums (vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid), apply them first and let them absorb for 30 seconds.
Dispense & Apply Lotion
Pump a generous amount onto your palms. Gently massage into face, neck, and body using upward strokes. A little goes a long way.
Follow with Sunscreen (AM)
In the morning, wait 1–2 minutes for the lotion to absorb, then apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, dry, or very dry skin on face and body
- You suffer from eczema, dermatitis, or a compromised skin barrier
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy daily moisturizer
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe moisturizer
- You use retinol or exfoliating acids and need barrier support
- You prefer fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended products
- You want an affordable multi-use product for face and body
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia) — contains potential triggers
- You need heavy-duty moisture for extremely dry or cracked skin (try CeraVe Moisturising Cream instead)
- You are sensitive to fatty alcohols (cetearyl/cetyl alcohol)
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides in your moisturizer
- You prefer a dewy, luminous finish (this gives a natural matte look)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCeramides and hyaluronic acid provide deep, lasting hydration. Ideal for restoring moisture to dry, flaky skin without heaviness.
Lightweight enough for daily use without feeling heavy. Maintains healthy moisture levels and strengthens the barrier.
Oil-free and non-comedogenic, absorbs quickly. Some oily skin types may find it slightly rich — works great in cooler months.
Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and NEA-accepted. One of the safest options for reactive, irritation-prone skin.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. Well-tolerated by most acne-prone users. Those with fatty alcohol sensitivity should patch test first.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels instantly softer and smoother after the first application. Dry patches appear less visible and skin feels comfortable.
90% noticed immediate softnessSustained Moisture & Reduced Flaking
24-hour hydration from MVE Technology becomes noticeable. Dry, flaky patches begin to resolve. Skin texture starts to feel more even.
80% reported reduced drynessBarrier Strengthening
Ceramides begin to noticeably improve the skin barrier. Skin feels more resilient, less reactive to environmental changes, and holds moisture better on its own.
70% noticed improved skin resilienceLong-Term Barrier Repair
Significant improvement in skin barrier function with consistent use. Eczema flare-ups may decrease in frequency. Skin appears healthier and more balanced overall.
65% reported fewer eczema flare-upsRatings by platform
109K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight and non-greasy — absorbs quickly
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, allergy-tested
- Contains three essential ceramides for barrier repair
- MVE Technology provides 24-hour controlled hydration
- Affordable and widely available in pharmacies
- Versatile — safe for face, body, and hands
- Dermatologist developed, NEA Seal of Acceptance
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- May not be rich enough for very dry skin in winter
- Contains fatty alcohols that may irritate some sensitive individuals
- Not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20 and fatty alcohols
- Can sting on heavily compromised or broken skin
- No anti-aging or brightening active ingredients
- US vs EU formulation differences can be confusing
- Pump mechanism on some bottles can be finicky
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Even simpler formula with fewer potential irritants. Contains five ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalane. Better for people with extreme sensitivities or fatty alcohol concerns. Lacks MVE Technology.
Much cheaper option with amino acids, ceramide precursors, and hyaluronic acid. Lighter texture but lacks the patented ceramide complex and MVE delivery system. Great for those on a tight budget.
Similar lightweight, fragrance-free approach with hyaluronic acid. Does not contain ceramides or MVE Technology. A simpler formula that works well for basic hydration needs.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lait
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme heat. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Pump bottle (236ml & 473ml). Hygienic pump dispenser minimizes contamination and allows precise dosing.
The 88ml travel size is under 100ml and TSA/EU carry-on compliant. The 236ml bottle is not carry-on friendly.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. CeraVe Moisturising Lotion is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. Its gentle, fragrance-free formula makes it one of the most commonly recommended moisturizers by dermatologists for expectant and nursing mothers.
Use with caution. The formula contains Polysorbate 20 and fatty alcohols (Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol) which are known potential triggers for malassezia yeast growth. While many people with fungal acne use this product without issues, those with confirmed pityrosporum folliculitis should patch test carefully or consider alternatives like the Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer or products from the Simple Skincare Science fungal acne safe list.
Absolutely. CeraVe Moisturising Lotion is an excellent companion product for active ingredients. Its ceramide-rich formula helps buffer the irritation and dryness often caused by retinol, tretinoin, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), and vitamin C. Apply the lotion after your actives have absorbed, or use the "sandwich method" (lotion → active → lotion) if you have very sensitive skin.
This lotion is specifically formulated for normal to very dry skin and performs best in this range. It's also excellent for sensitive, eczema-prone, and combination skin types. Oily skin types can use it too, especially in drier months, though they may prefer a gel-based moisturizer in summer. Its versatility makes it a true multi-skin-type product.
You will feel immediate softness and hydration after the first application. Within 1–2 weeks, dry patches and flaking typically resolve. Noticeable barrier strengthening occurs around weeks 3–4 with consistent use. For eczema management and long-term barrier repair, allow 2–3 months of regular daily application.
Apply after cleansing, toner, and any water-based serums, but before heavier creams (if needed) and sunscreen. In a basic routine: Cleanser → Serum → CeraVe Moisturising Lotion → Sunscreen (AM). At night, it can be your final step or followed by an occlusive like Vaseline for extra-dry skin.
No. CeraVe Moisturising Lotion is officially non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It is oil-free, fragrance-free, and has been formulated to not block pores. The vast majority of users — including those with acne-prone skin — do not experience breakouts. However, individuals with specific sensitivities to fatty alcohols (cetearyl/cetyl alcohol) may want to patch test.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The EU version uses Phenoxyethanol as its primary preservative system, which keeps the product stable and safe throughout the PAO period. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the pump closed between uses.
Verdict: CeraVe Moisturising Lotion is one of the best all-round body and face moisturizers on the market — and for good reason. Its combination of three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and patented MVE Technology delivers reliable 24-hour hydration without any greasiness or fragrance. At its price point, it offers exceptional value for a dermatologist-developed, eczema-accepted formula. It loses half a point for not being fungal acne safe and for potentially being too lightweight for extremely dry climates. But for the vast majority of people — from those managing eczema to those simply wanting a dependable daily moisturizer — this is a near-perfect choice.
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 skin’s 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 «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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|