Moisturizing Cream
Moisturizing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, non-greasy moisturizing cream formulated with three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum to restore and maintain your skin's natural moisture barrier. Designed for normal to dry skin on the face and body — at a fraction of name-brand prices.
Barrier Repair with 3 Ceramides
Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP — three essential lipids that mimic your skin's natural barrier structure to lock in moisture and protect against irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair with 3 Ceramides
Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP — three essential lipids that mimic your skin's natural barrier structure to lock in moisture and protect against irritation.
Multi-Layer Hydration
Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate draw water into skin while petrolatum and dimethicone seal it in, delivering both immediate and long-lasting hydration.
Gentle for Sensitive Skin
Free of fragrances, parabens, dyes, and lanolin. Formulated to be gentle enough for the most reactive skin on both face and body.
Best-in-Class Value
Nearly identical ceramide-based formula to CeraVe Moisturizing Cream at roughly half the price — a top-rated store-brand alternative.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe to use during pregnancy and while nursing.
Contains ceteareth-20, sucrose stearate, sucrose distearate, and long-chain fatty alcohols that may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to pityrosporum folliculitis.
Non-greasy formula with low comedogenic potential. Fatty alcohols score a 2, but overall formulation is well-balanced and unlikely to clog pores for most people.
Free of the most common allergy-causing ingredients: fragrance, lanolin, parabens, nickel, coconut derivatives, MCI/MI preservatives, and gluten.
Free of phthalates, bisphenols, parabens, triclosan, benzophenone-3, PFAS compounds, and other potentially hormone-altering chemicals.
Safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Its ceramide-rich formula can help buffer irritation from active ingredients.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide NP, AP & EOP ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Three essential ceramides identical to those found naturally in your skin's outermost layer. They fill in the gaps between skin cells to rebuild the lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and protect against environmental irritants.
- Research: Topically applied ceramides interact with stratum corneum lipids and significantly improve barrier function in compromised skin.
- Function: Ceramide NP (type 3) and AP (type 6-II) restore barrier lipids; Ceramide EOP (type 1) provides structural integrity to the skin's outermost layer.
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid — a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Smaller molecular weight than regular HA, allowing it to penetrate more effectively into the upper layers of the skin.
- Research: Clinically shown to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines with consistent use.
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate the stratum corneum.
Glycerin 3–8%Proven
One of the most well-studied and effective humectants in skincare. A skin-identical ingredient naturally present in the epidermis that plays a critical role in maintaining hydration and overall skin health.
- Research: Effective from as low as 3% concentration; higher concentrations (up to 20–40%) provide greater benefits for severely dry skin.
- Function: Attracts and retains water, supports the skin's liquid crystal lipid structure, and enhances barrier function.
Dimethicone 1–5%Proven
A lightweight silicone that forms a breathable, protective barrier over the skin without feeling heavy or greasy. Also used in scar treatment products for its healing and protective properties.
- Research: FDA-recognized skin protectant; studies confirm it reduces TEWL while allowing the skin to breathe normally.
- Function: Fills in fine lines, creates a smooth silky finish, and locks in moisture from layers applied underneath.
Petrolatum 1–3%Proven
A classic occlusive agent considered the gold standard for preventing moisture loss. Refined petrolatum is one of the most effective ingredients for sealing in hydration and supporting barrier repair.
- Research: Reduces TEWL by up to 99% when applied to skin; recommended by dermatologists for eczema and severely dry skin.
- Function: Creates an occlusive seal on the skin surface, preventing water evaporation and allowing deeper layers to rehydrate.
Phytosphingosine & Cholesterol <0.5%Promising
Phytosphingosine is a phospholipid naturally found in skin that helps moisturize, soothe, and provides anti-microbial benefits. Cholesterol works alongside ceramides to maintain the skin's lipid matrix in a healthy liquid crystal state.
- Research: Phytosphingosine has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties; cholesterol is essential for optimal barrier lipid organization.
- Function: Together with ceramides, they form the three key lipid types needed for complete barrier repair.
26 ingredients
Water, Cetyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Stearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Beta-Sitosterol, Sucrose Stearate, Sucrose Distearate, Petrolatum, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Dipotassium Phosphate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Phenoxyethanol, Phytosphingosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening as the last step before sunscreen (AM). Can be applied on both face and body. Layer over serums and treatments to lock in active ingredients.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Wash your face and/or body with a gentle cleanser. Pat skin until slightly damp — applying to damp skin helps trap extra moisture.
Apply Serums (Optional)
If using treatment serums (vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid), apply them first and let them absorb for 30 seconds.
Apply Moisturizing Cream
Scoop a pea-to-nickel-sized amount for the face (more for body). Gently massage into skin using upward, circular motions until fully absorbed.
Finish with SPF (Morning)
In the morning, wait 1–2 minutes, then apply broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ as your final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal to dry or sensitive skin that needs barrier repair
- You want a CeraVe-style ceramide moisturizer at a lower price point
- You prefer fragrance-free, no-frills formulations
- You need a versatile cream for both face and body
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe, effective moisturizer
- You want to buffer irritation from retinol or AHA/BHA treatments
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula contains known triggers
- You have very oily skin and prefer lightweight gel moisturizers
- You are sensitive to fatty alcohols (cetyl, cetearyl, stearyl)
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or niacinamide built in
- You prefer a luxury texture or elegant cosmetic experience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCeramides + petrolatum + glycerin deliver exactly what dry skin craves. Rich enough for winter weather without feeling heavy.
Great daily maintenance moisturizer that keeps normal skin balanced and well-hydrated year round.
Fragrance-free and allergen-friendly formula. Patch test recommended if reactive to fatty alcohols like cetearyl alcohol.
Works well on dry cheeks; may feel slightly heavy on oily T-zone areas. Consider using only on drier zones.
May feel too rich for very oily skin. Consider a lighter lotion formula or gel-cream moisturizer instead.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5) but not fungal-acne safe. Works fine for hormonal or bacterial acne types that tolerate richer creams.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels softer and more comfortable right away. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid provide an instant moisture boost. Dry patches and tightness noticeably reduced.
90% noticed immediate reliefReduced Dryness & Flaking
With consistent twice-daily use, chronic dry patches begin to diminish. The ceramide complex starts to integrate into and reinforce the skin's lipid barrier.
75% reported smoother skin textureStronger Moisture Barrier
Skin retains moisture better throughout the day. Redness and sensitivity from environmental stressors or active ingredients decreases as the barrier strengthens.
65% noticed reduced sensitivityLong-Term Barrier Health
Consistently healthier, more resilient skin that holds onto moisture and is less reactive. Ideal for maintaining results alongside retinol or exfoliant routines.
80% reported overall skin improvementRatings by platform
950+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — roughly half the price of CeraVe for a near-identical formula
- Three essential ceramides effectively restore the moisture barrier
- Fragrance-free and free of top allergens — ideal for sensitive skin
- Rich yet non-greasy texture absorbs well without leaving residue
- Versatile face and body use in a generous 16 oz tub
- Dermatologist-tested and free of hormone-disrupting chemicals
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe — contains known malassezia triggers
- Slightly thinner/less rich texture compared to CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
- Only available at Target — limited accessibility
- Tub packaging is less hygienic than a pump (bacteria exposure with fingers)
- No anti-aging actives (no retinol, niacinamide, or peptides)
- May be too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin types
- Lacks CeraVe's patented MVE time-release technology
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The original this product is duping. Nearly identical ceramide formula with the addition of patented MVE time-release technology. Slightly richer texture. The Up & Up version offers nearly the same results at ~50% less cost.
Another store-brand CeraVe dupe with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Similar price point and concept but slightly different excipient blend. Check Walgreens availability.
Classic drugstore cream that uses sweet almond oil and glycerin instead of ceramides. Richer, heavier texture. Good for very dry skin but lacks the ceramide-based barrier repair approach.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent contamination and drying out.
Tub / jar with screw-on lid (16 oz). Consider using a clean spatula to minimize bacterial contamination.
No — 16 oz exceeds TSA carry-on limit. Transfer to a smaller container (under 3.4 oz / 100 ml) for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cream contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its gentle, fragrance-free formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid makes it an excellent choice for expectant and nursing mothers who need reliable moisturization.
No. This cream is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients known to feed malassezia yeast, including ceteareth-20 (a PEG derivative), sucrose stearate, sucrose distearate, and long-chain fatty alcohols (cetyl, cetearyl, stearyl alcohol). If you are prone to pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like Malezia Urea Moisturizer or PURITO Oat-In Calming Gel Cream.
Yes. This cream works very well alongside active ingredients. Its ceramide-rich formula can actually help buffer irritation from retinol and exfoliating acids. Apply your active serum first, let it absorb for 1–2 minutes, then layer the moisturizing cream on top. For sensitive skin, you can also apply the cream first as a "buffer" before retinol to reduce irritation while you build tolerance.
This cream is best suited for normal to dry and sensitive skin types. It excels at restoring moisture in dehydrated, flaky, or compromised skin. Combination skin types can use it on drier areas. Those with very oily skin may find it too heavy and should consider a lighter lotion formula instead.
You will feel immediate softness and relief from dryness after the first application. Visible improvements in skin texture and reduced flaking typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Full barrier repair benefits from the ceramide complex generally develop over 3–4 weeks of regular use.
Apply this cream as your moisturizer step — typically step 4 in a standard routine. It goes after cleanser, toner, and serum, but before sunscreen in the morning. At night, it can be your final step, or you can follow with an occlusive (like Vaseline or Aquaphor) on especially dry areas for extra moisture lock-in.
This cream has an overall comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5 (low risk). The fatty alcohols (cetyl, cetearyl alcohol) individually score a 2 on the comedogenic scale, but the overall formulation is designed to be non-greasy and is unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types. However, individual reactions vary — patch test if you are acne-prone.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. To maximize shelf life, keep the lid tightly sealed, avoid introducing water into the jar, and consider using a clean spatula instead of your fingers to reduce bacterial contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: Up & Up Moisturizing Cream is one of the best value propositions in drugstore skincare. With three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and a clean allergen-free profile, it delivers CeraVe-level barrier repair at roughly half the cost. It's pregnancy safe, gentle on sensitive skin, and versatile enough for face and body. The main drawbacks are its incompatibility with fungal acne-prone skin and the lack of advanced actives. If you have normal to dry skin and want effective, no-nonsense hydration without breaking the bank, this Target exclusive is hard to beat.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|