Moisturizing Cream
Moisturizing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, non-greasy moisturizing cream developed with dermatologists, featuring three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and patented MVE Technology for 24-hour hydration. Restores and maintains the skin's natural protective barrier for face and body.
Barrier Repair with 3 Ceramides
Contains ceramides NP, AP, and EOP — identical to those found naturally in your skin — to restore and maintain the skin's protective barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair with 3 Ceramides
Contains ceramides NP, AP, and EOP — identical to those found naturally in your skin — to restore and maintain the skin's protective barrier.
MVE Technology for 24h Hydration
Patented multivesicular emulsion technology releases moisturizing ingredients in a steady stream throughout the day and night.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate attracts moisture to the skin's surface and helps retain hydration, leaving skin feeling plump and smooth.
Developed with Dermatologists
Formulated in collaboration with dermatologists and accepted by the National Eczema Association for sensitive skin and eczema-prone individuals.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreen filters. Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains cetearyl alcohol and petrolatum, which are debated among fungal acne communities. Some sources flag them as potential triggers, while others consider them safe. Patch test first.
Officially non-comedogenic and oil-free. Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores for the vast majority of users.
Holds the National Eczema Association (NEA) Seal of Acceptance. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and allergy-tested.
Works well layered with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Its barrier-repairing formula helps buffer irritation from active ingredients.
Petrolatum is the most effective occlusive known and has a comedogenic rating of 0 in human studies. Some users prefer to avoid petroleum-derived ingredients for personal reasons.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramides NP, AP & EOPProven
Three essential ceramides identical to those found naturally in the skin. Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the lipids in the outer skin layer and are critical for maintaining the skin's protective barrier.
- Function: Repair and maintain the skin barrier, prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and regulate cell function
- Research: Clinical studies confirm ceramide-based formulations significantly improve skin hydration and barrier integrity
- Delivery: Encapsulated via MVE Technology for controlled, extended release over 24 hours
Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate)Proven
A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form, with a smaller molecular size that allows deeper skin penetration.
- Function: Attracts and retains moisture at the skin's surface, promoting a plump, smooth appearance
- Research: Widely studied humectant shown to improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines
- Synergy: Works together with glycerin and ceramides to provide multi-layer hydration
Glycerin High concentrationProven
A naturally occurring humectant found in healthy skin. Listed second in the INCI list, indicating a high concentration. A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers, maintains lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state
- Irritancy: 0 — Comedogenicity: 0 — one of the safest, most well-tolerated ingredients
- Concentration: High levels (estimated >10%) strongly support 24-hour moisturization claims
PetrolatumProven
The most effective occlusive agent known in skincare. Creates a protective seal over the skin to lock in moisture and prevent water loss. Comedogenic rating of 0 in human studies.
- Function: Forms a barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), protects compromised skin
- Research: Gold standard occlusive recommended by dermatologists for eczema and severely dry skin
Cholesterol & PhytosphingosineProven
Cholesterol is a key lipid in the skin barrier (making up ~25% of skin lipids). Phytosphingosine is a building block for ceramides with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Function: Together with ceramides, they recreate the natural ratio of lipids in the skin's outer layer
- Research: Phytosphingosine contributes to the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and defense system
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and environmental stressors.
- Function: Provides photoprotection against UVB rays, soothes skin, and supports barrier repair
- Synergy: Works in synergy with vitamin C for enhanced antioxidant protection
24 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Petrolatum, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and PM as the last step before sunscreen in the morning. Can be layered over serums and treatments. Apply to face, body, and hands as needed.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face and/or body with a gentle cleanser such as CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser. Pat skin dry with a soft towel.
Apply Serums or Treatments (Optional)
If using any serums, essences, or active treatments (retinol, vitamin C, etc.), apply them first and let them absorb for 1–2 minutes.
Scoop & Warm the Cream
Take a small amount of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and warm it between your palms. A pea-sized amount is sufficient for the face; use more for the body.
Apply & Massage Gently
Smooth the cream evenly over your face and body, focusing on dry areas like cheeks, elbows, and hands. Gently massage in upward motions until absorbed.
Follow with Sunscreen (AM Only)
In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. The cream provides an excellent base for sunscreen application.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry to very dry skin on face or body
- You suffer from eczema, dermatitis, or a compromised skin barrier
- You want a fragrance-free, no-frills moisturizer
- You need a cream that works for both face and body
- You want to buffer irritation from retinol or other actives
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer a lightweight, gel-type texture (try CeraVe PM Lotion instead)
- You have very oily skin and want oil-control (try CeraVe Oil Control Gel-Cream)
- You have confirmed fungal acne and want to avoid all potential triggers
- You dislike jar packaging (pump version also available)
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides built into your moisturizer
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cream was made for dry skin. Rich ceramide + petrolatum formula locks in moisture for 24 hours. The gold standard for dry skin relief.
Provides balanced hydration without feeling heavy. Perfect year-round moisturizer for maintaining healthy, well-hydrated skin.
May feel too heavy for oily skin types, especially in humid weather. Consider CeraVe PM Lotion or the Oil Control Gel-Cream instead.
Works well on drier areas of the face and body. Apply sparingly on the oily T-zone; use more liberally on cheeks and dry patches.
NEA-accepted, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and allergy-tested. One of the safest choices for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Officially non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Great for buffering dryness caused by acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSInstant Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels immediately softer, smoother, and more comfortable. Dryness and tightness are visibly reduced after the first application.
95% noticed instant reliefImproved Skin Texture
Rough, flaky patches begin to smooth out. Skin barrier starts to strengthen. Redness and irritation from dryness noticeably decrease.
85% reported smoother skinStronger Barrier & Lasting Hydration
Skin barrier is significantly more resilient. Skin retains moisture throughout the day without reapplication. Eczema flare-ups become less frequent for many users.
78% saw lasting improvementLong-Term Skin Health
Consistent use results in healthier, more balanced skin overall. Fine lines caused by dehydration appear reduced. Skin looks and feels plump and nourished.
70% reported healthier skin overallRatings by platform
230K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional 24-hour hydration with MVE Technology
- Three essential ceramides repair and maintain skin barrier
- NEA-accepted — safe for eczema and very sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic
- Extremely affordable for the amount of product you get
- Versatile — works on face, body, and hands
- Developed with dermatologists; backed by science
- Available in multiple sizes including travel-friendly options
Criticized
- Jar packaging is not the most hygienic (pump version available separately)
- Rich texture may feel too heavy for oily skin or hot/humid climates
- Can sting on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Contains cetearyl alcohol and petrolatum — debated for fungal acne
- No anti-aging actives (retinol, peptides, niacinamide) in formula
- Takes 1–2 minutes to fully absorb; may leave a slight tacky feel initially
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Simpler formula with fewer ingredients — ideal for extremely sensitive skin. Uses petrolatum and sorbitol instead of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. No MVE Technology but very effective occlusion.
Lighter texture with a focus on amino acids and hyaluronic acid. No ceramides or petrolatum. Better suited for oily/combo skin but less occlusive for very dry skin.
Classic heavy-duty moisturizer with petrolatum and glycerin. Contains fragrance and lacks ceramides. Very affordable but not suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid excessive heat and direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent contamination.
Screw-top jar (standard). Also available in a pump dispenser and squeeze tube for more hygienic application.
Yes — the 1.89 oz (53g) travel size is TSA-approved and under 100ml for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients flagged as concerning during pregnancy. Its gentle, fragrance-free formula is one of the most commonly recommended moisturizers by OB-GYNs and dermatologists for expecting and nursing mothers.
This is debated. Some ingredient databases (like SkinCarisma) list it as free from common fungal acne triggers, while others (like Folliculitis Scout) flag cetearyl alcohol and petrolatum as potential concerns. The original formula (without petrolatum) was widely considered fungal acne safe. If you have active fungal acne, patch test first or consider CeraVe Healing Ointment, which is free from fatty alcohols.
Absolutely. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is an excellent companion to active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA first, wait 1–2 minutes, then layer the cream on top. Its ceramide-rich formula helps buffer irritation and dryness that often accompanies active ingredients, making it a favorite "sandwich method" cream among skincare enthusiasts.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is best suited for normal, dry, very dry, and sensitive skin types. It is also excellent for those with eczema or a compromised skin barrier. People with oily skin may find the rich texture too heavy — in that case, CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion or the Oil Control Gel-Cream are lighter alternatives from the same brand.
You'll feel immediate relief from dryness and tightness after the first application. Visible improvement in skin texture and roughness typically appears within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. For significant barrier repair and long-term hydration benefits, expect 4–8 weeks of regular twice-daily application.
Apply CeraVe Moisturizing Cream as the last skincare step before sunscreen in the morning. In the evening, it should be your final step. The routine order is: cleanser, toner (optional), serum/treatment (optional), then this cream. It can be used on both face and body, morning and night.
No. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is officially non-comedogenic and has been allergy-tested. Its comedogenic rating is 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. The formula is also oil-free. However, individual reactions vary — if you are extremely acne-prone, patch test on a small area first before applying all over your face.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store it at room temperature with the lid tightly closed. Avoid introducing water or contaminants into the jar — consider using a clean spatula instead of fingers.
Verdict: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a dermatologist-developed, science-backed powerhouse that delivers on its promise of 24-hour hydration. With three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and patented MVE Technology at an incredibly accessible price point, it has rightfully earned its status as one of the most beloved moisturizers on the market. It's pregnancy-safe, non-comedogenic, and gentle enough for eczema-prone skin. The only reason it doesn't score a perfect 5 is its thick texture (which won't suit oily skin types) and the debated fungal acne compatibility. For dry, sensitive, and barrier-compromised skin, this is as close to a holy grail moisturizer as it gets.
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 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|