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SA Moisturizing Cream

SA Moisturizing Cream

Product Description

Dermatologist-Developed Body Cream for Rough, Bumpy Skin

A rich, exfoliating cream with 2% Salicylic Acid and Lactic Acid that smooths keratosis pilaris, rough texture, and dry patches while restoring the skin barrier with 3 essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.

✔ 2% Salicylic Acid ✔ Fragrance-Free ✔ Non-Comedogenic ✔ Dermatologist Recommended ✔ NEA Accepted

Quick Info

🇺🇸
Origin
USA (American Pharmacy)
🤰
Pregnancy Safe
Yes ✔ (2% SA approved)
🍄
Fungal Acne Safe
No ✗
🔬
Comedogenic Rating
1/5 (Low)
Texture
Rich Cream
👃
Scent
Fragrance-Free
⏱️
Absorption
Quick (Non-Greasy)
💧
Finish
Velvety Matte

Key Benefits

🔄

Dual Exfoliation

BHA (Salicylic Acid) and AHA (Lactic Acid) work together to dissolve dead skin cells, unclog pores, and smooth rough, bumpy texture caused by keratosis pilaris.

🛡️

Barrier Restoration

Three essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) plus cholesterol and phytosphingosine help restore and maintain your skin's protective barrier.

💦

Deep Hydration

Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture while urea and glycerin provide long-lasting hydration. MVE Technology releases ingredients throughout the day.

😌

Calming Formula

Niacinamide soothes skin, reduces redness, and helps calm irritation. Fragrance-free and allergy-tested for sensitive skin.

MVE Technology

Patented MultiVesicular Emulsion slowly releases moisturizing ingredients over 24 hours for continuous hydration long after application.

Smooths KP Bumps

Specifically formulated to target keratosis pilaris (chicken skin) on upper arms, thighs, and other rough, bumpy areas of the body.

Safety Information

Pregnancy Safe (with precautions)

Contains 2% Salicylic Acid which is considered safe during pregnancy by ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) for topical use. Avoid high-concentration peels. Consult your healthcare provider.

Breastfeeding Safe

Topical salicylic acid at 2% is unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk in significant amounts. Avoid applying to areas that may contact baby's skin during nursing.

⚠️
NOT Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains fatty alcohols (cetearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol), shea butter, meadowfoam seed oil, and cottonseed oil which may feed malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne breakouts.

Non-Comedogenic

Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Formulated not to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin on the body (not recommended for facial use).

ℹ️
Sun Sensitivity Warning

AHA/BHA ingredients may increase sun sensitivity. Use sunscreen and limit sun exposure while using this product and for one week afterward.

Allergy Tested

Fragrance-free and allergy-tested formula. Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Contains no parabens.

Key Ingredients

🧪 Salicylic Acid 2% Proven

A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within. Dissolves the keratin plugs causing keratosis pilaris bumps and softens rough, scaly skin.

  • Function: Keratolytic exfoliant that breaks bonds between dead skin cells
  • Benefits: Unclogs pores, smooths texture, anti-inflammatory properties
  • Research: Gold standard ingredient for treating problem skin and KP

🥛 Lactic Acid (Ammonium Lactate) Proven

An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin surface while also acting as a humectant to attract moisture into the skin.

  • Function: Surface exfoliation and hydration
  • Benefits: Promotes natural skin cell turnover, improves texture
  • Research: Clinically proven for xerosis and keratosis pilaris treatment

🧱 3 Essential Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) Proven

Lipids identical to those found naturally in skin. Make up 50% of the skin's barrier and are essential for maintaining hydration and protection.

  • Function: Skin barrier repair and moisture retention
  • Benefits: Restores protective barrier, prevents water loss
  • Research: Ceramide deficiency linked to dry skin conditions and eczema

💧 Hyaluronic Acid (Hydrolyzed) Proven

Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into skin layers. Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water for intense hydration.

  • Function: Humectant that draws moisture to skin
  • Benefits: Plumps skin, reduces fine lines, long-lasting hydration
  • Research: Hydrolyzed form offers superior penetration

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Proven

Multi-functional skincare superstar that strengthens skin barrier, calms redness, and helps regulate sebum production.

  • Function: Anti-inflammatory, barrier support, brightening
  • Benefits: Calms irritation, reduces redness, improves texture
  • Research: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger barrier

💎 Urea Proven

A natural moisturizing factor (NMF) found in skin. Works as both a humectant and mild keratolytic agent to soften rough, dry skin.

  • Function: Hydration and gentle exfoliation
  • Benefits: Softens calluses, improves barrier function
  • Research: Effective at 10%+ concentration for dry skin conditions

Free From

❌ Fragrance ❌ Drying Alcohols ❌ Dyes ❌ Sulfates

Full Ingredients (INCI)

Water, Urea, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Laureth-9, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dimethicone, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Tocopherol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydrogenated Olive Oil, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Citric Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin. Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2%.

Where It Fits In Your Routine

1
Cleanser
2
Pat Dry
3
SA Cream
4
Sunscreen (AM)

How to Use

1

Cleanse First

Use CeraVe SA Body Wash or a gentle cleanser in the shower. Pat skin dry with a towel, leaving skin slightly damp.

2

Apply Generously

Take a generous amount and massage into rough, bumpy areas - upper arms, thighs, elbows, knees, and any KP-prone zones.

3

Use Daily

Apply once or twice daily (morning and evening) for best results. Consistency is key - allow 4-8 weeks to see significant improvement.

4

Protect from Sun

Apply sunscreen to treated areas when going outdoors. AHA/BHA can increase sun sensitivity.

⚠️
Important: This product is formulated for body use only. Not recommended for facial application - the formula may be too rich and occlusive for facial skin. For face, consider CeraVe SA Cleanser or Renewing SA Lotion instead.

Skin Type Compatibility

Dry Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Perfect match! Rich formula with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and urea deeply hydrates while exfoliating dry, flaky patches. Ideal for xerosis.

Keratosis Pilaris ★★★★★ Excellent

Specifically designed for KP (chicken skin). Dual AHA/BHA exfoliation dissolves keratin plugs while moisturizing. Best-in-class for bumpy arms and thighs.

Normal Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Great preventive care for maintaining smooth texture. Non-greasy finish works well for everyday body moisturizing.

Combination Skin ★★★★☆ Good

Works well on different body zones. May feel slightly rich on naturally oilier areas but absorbs well overall.

Oily Skin ★★★☆☆ Moderate

May feel heavy for very oily skin types. Consider the lighter SA Lotion version instead for a less occlusive finish.

Sensitive Skin ★★★★☆ Good

Fragrance-free and allergy-tested. Niacinamide calms irritation. May cause mild tingling initially - patch test first. NEA accepted.

Eczema-Prone ★★★★☆ Good

Accepted by National Eczema Association. Ceramides restore barrier function. Avoid applying on active flare-ups or broken skin.

Acne-Prone (Body) ★★★★☆ Good

Non-comedogenic formula with salicylic acid helps with body acne (bacne). However, not fungal acne safe - avoid if prone to malassezia.

Expected Results Timeline

Week 1-2

Initial Improvement

Skin feels softer and smoother to the touch. Dry, flaky patches begin to diminish. Some may notice mild tingling during first applications.

70% notice softer skin
Week 3-4

Visible Texture Change

KP bumps start to flatten and become less visible. Rough patches on elbows and knees significantly smoother. Skin looks healthier.

65% see reduced bumps
Week 5-8

Significant Results

Major improvement in keratosis pilaris. Skin texture dramatically smoother. Barrier function restored - skin holds moisture better.

80% achieve smoother skin
Ongoing Use

Maintenance

Continue daily use to maintain results. KP is a chronic condition - stopping treatment may cause bumps to return over time.

Results maintained with consistent use

Reviews Across Platforms

🛒 Amazon
★★★★★ 4.6
Rating
42,000+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Some find texture too thick for summer; occasional reports of not working for severe KP
💅 Ulta
★★★★★ 4.6
Rating
907+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Takes several weeks to see results; not moisturizing enough for some very dry skin types
🎯 Target
★★★★★ 4.6
Rating
1,443+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Price per ounce higher than basic CeraVe cream; jar packaging less hygienic than pump
💊 CVS/Walgreens
★★★★★ 4.5
Rating
500+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Wish it came in a pump bottle; formula changes reported between batches

What Reviewers Love

  • ✅ Dramatically smooths keratosis pilaris bumps on arms and thighs
  • ✅ Non-greasy, velvety finish that absorbs quickly
  • ✅ Fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin
  • ✅ Affordable drugstore price for dermatologist-quality formula
  • ✅ Works well paired with CeraVe SA Body Wash

Common Concerns

  • ⚠️ Results take 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use
  • ⚠️ May feel too heavy for oily skin - try SA Lotion instead
  • ⚠️ Not intended for face - can cause breakouts or irritation
  • ⚠️ Initial tingling/stinging is normal but should subside

Alternatives & Dupes

85% Match
AmLactin Daily Moisturizing Lotion (12% Lactic Acid)
$14.99 (7.9 oz) Similar

Higher lactic acid concentration (12% vs CeraVe's lower AHA). No salicylic acid. More aggressive exfoliation - may sting more. Better for stubborn, severe KP. Not for facial use.

75% Match
Paula's Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion 10% AHA
$28.00 (7 oz) Premium

Uses glycolic acid instead of salicylic. Stronger AHA exfoliation but less hydrating. Lighter, less rich texture. Higher price point but elegant formula. No ceramides.

70% Match
Eucerin Roughness Relief Lotion (Urea + AHA)
$12.99 (16.9 oz) Budget Pick

10% Urea focus with lactic acid. Great value - larger size for less money. Different mechanism - urea is a keratolytic. Less elegant feel but effective for dry, rough skin.

65% Match
Gold Bond Rough & Bumpy Skin Cream
$11.99 (8 oz) Budget Pick

Contains AHA, BHA, and PHA triple exfoliation. Budget-friendly drugstore option. Thicker texture. May be more irritating due to multiple acids. Good starter option.

Product Comparison

AmLactin Intensive Healing

$18.99 (12 oz)
Key Actives 15% Ammonium Lactate (Lactic Acid)
Ceramides 3 Ceramides ✓
Hyaluronic Acid No ✗
Niacinamide No ✗
Fragrance None ✓
Best For Severe KP, Very Rough Skin
Price/oz $1.58/oz

Paula's Choice 10% AHA Body Lotion

$28.00 (7 oz)
Key Actives 10% Glycolic Acid
Ceramides No ✗
Hyaluronic Acid No ✗
Niacinamide No ✗
Fragrance Light Scent
Best For KP, Anti-Aging, Body Brightening
Price/oz $4.00/oz

Product Details

📦
Packaging
Jar / Tub
PAO (Shelf Life)
12 Months
🌡️
Storage
Cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
✈️
Travel Friendly
No (12 oz over TSA limit)
📋
Ingredient Count
36 ingredients
🔢
pH Level
~3.5-4.0 (optimal for SA)

Frequently Asked Questions

Pregnancy: Yes, with precautions. This product contains 2% Salicylic Acid which is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Avoid high-concentration peels or oral salicylates. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.

Breastfeeding: Generally safe. Topical salicylic acid at 2% concentration is unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk in significant amounts. Avoid applying to areas that may come in direct contact with your baby's skin during nursing (chest area). If concerned, consult your doctor.

No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients known to potentially feed malassezia yeast:

  • Fatty alcohols (Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol)
  • Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
  • Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil
  • Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil
  • Various esters and glyceryl compounds

If you're prone to fungal acne/pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (regular version is more FA-friendly) or look for oil-free, malassezia-safe options.

This product already contains both AHA (lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid), so layering additional acids may cause irritation and over-exfoliation.

Recommendations:

  • Retinol: Use on alternate days/nights to avoid irritation. Don't layer directly.
  • Vitamin C: Can be used, but apply vitamin C in the morning and SA Cream at night for best results.
  • Other AHA/BHA: Not recommended - risk of over-exfoliation, irritation, and compromised skin barrier.

If you experience redness, peeling, or stinging, reduce frequency of use or discontinue one product.

Best suited for:

  • Dry to very dry skin
  • Keratosis pilaris (KP) / "chicken skin"
  • Rough, bumpy, or scaly skin texture
  • Normal skin wanting smoother texture
  • Body acne (non-fungal)

May not be ideal for:

  • Very oily body skin (try SA Lotion instead)
  • Fungal acne prone skin
  • Facial use (too occlusive)

Timeline for visible results:

  • Week 1-2: Softer, smoother feel. Dry patches improve.
  • Week 3-4: Visible reduction in KP bumps and rough texture.
  • Week 5-8: Significant improvement - smoother, healthier-looking skin.
  • Ongoing: Continued use maintains results.

Key to success: Consistency! Apply daily (once or twice) for at least 4-8 weeks. KP is a chronic condition - stopping use may cause bumps to gradually return.

Body Routine Order:

  1. Cleanser (in shower) - try CeraVe SA Body Wash
  2. Pat skin dry (leave slightly damp)
  3. CeraVe SA Cream - apply to rough/bumpy areas
  4. Sunscreen (morning/daytime only) on exposed areas

Timing: Can be used morning and/or night. Most effective when applied to slightly damp skin after bathing.

Note: This is a body cream - use separate facial products for your face routine.

Comedogenic Rating: 1/5 (Low)

CeraVe SA Cream is labeled as non-comedogenic and is formulated not to clog pores. The salicylic acid actively works to unclog pores and prevent buildup.

However, individual reactions vary. Some ingredients like fatty alcohols and shea butter have low-moderate comedogenic potential for certain people. If you're highly acne-prone on specific body areas, patch test first.

Note: Not recommended for facial use regardless of comedogenicity - the rich formula is designed for body skin.

Period After Opening (PAO): 12 Months

Once opened, use within 12 months for best efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.

Tips for extending freshness:

  • Use clean, dry hands when scooping from jar
  • Close lid tightly after each use
  • Don't introduce water into the jar
  • Consider using a small spatula for more hygienic application

If the product changes color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.

Not recommended for facial use.

While technically you could, this cream is specifically formulated for body skin which is thicker and less sensitive than facial skin. The rich, occlusive formula with shea butter and oils may:

  • Feel too heavy and greasy on the face
  • Potentially cause breakouts or congestion
  • Be too intense for sensitive facial skin

Better alternatives for face:

  • CeraVe SA Renewing Cleanser (face wash)
  • CeraVe Renewing SA Lotion (lighter formula)
  • Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

CeraVe SA Cream:

  • Richer, thicker texture
  • More moisturizing and occlusive
  • Better for very dry, rough skin
  • Comes in a jar

CeraVe SA Lotion:

  • Lighter, more fluid texture
  • Absorbs faster, less greasy
  • Better for oily/combination body skin
  • Comes in a pump bottle

Both contain: Salicylic acid, lactic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid - same key active ingredients, different vehicle.

Final Verdict

★★★★☆ 4.5/5

CeraVe SA Cream is one of the best drugstore options for treating keratosis pilaris and rough, bumpy body skin. The dual AHA/BHA exfoliation paired with barrier-repairing ceramides, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and calming niacinamide creates a comprehensive formula that addresses both the symptom (bumps) and underlying cause (keratin buildup + dry skin). While not fungal acne safe and too rich for facial use, it excels at its intended purpose: transforming rough, textured body skin into smooth, soft, healthy-looking skin. At under $20 for a large tub, it offers exceptional value compared to premium alternatives like Paula's Choice. Highly recommended for anyone with KP or chronically dry, rough body skin.

Pros

  • Excellent for keratosis pilaris treatment
  • Dual AHA + BHA exfoliation
  • 3 ceramides for barrier repair
  • Fragrance-free and NEA accepted
  • Affordable drugstore price
  • Dermatologist-developed formula

Cons

  • Not fungal acne safe
  • Not suitable for facial use
  • Results take 4-8 weeks
  • May feel heavy for oily skin
  • Jar packaging less hygienic

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Ceramide NP Ceramide AP Citric Acid Lactic Acid
brightening Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Salicylic Acid Citric Acid Lactic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Sodium Hyaluronate Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Salicylic Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
3 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
53% 12% 34%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 32 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Urea
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Buffering
Hydrating
Texture
1 A
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
1 A
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Surfactant, Emulsifying
1 A
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS