CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

A robust, fragrance-free moisturizing cream heavily focused on barrier repair through the use of ceramides, petrolatum, and hyaluronic acid.

Performance Rating: 4.7

This formulation is a powerhouse for barrier repair and hydration. It features the “golden ratio” of lipids: Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP), Cholesterol, and Phytosphingosine, which mimic the skin’s natural structure to restore health. High concentrations of Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate provide deep hydration, while Petrolatum and Dimethicone act as effective occlusives to lock moisture in without being overly heavy. It is an industry-standard formula for preventing transepidermal water loss.

Safety Rating: 4.5

The safety profile is excellent, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin. It is free from common irritants such as fragrance, essential oils, and drying alcohols. The preservative system (Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin) is gentle and standard. The only minor caution is the combination of Cetearyl Alcohol and Ceteareth-20, which can be potentially comedogenic for very oily or acne-prone skin types, but is otherwise safe and non-toxic.

Final Rating: 4.6

This is a top-tier, dermatologist-favored formulation. It strips away unnecessary fillers to focus entirely on restoring the skin barrier and maintaining moisture balance. Its reliance on skin-identical ingredients makes it a reliable, high-performance staple for dry, compromised, or sensitive skin.

Verdict

This moisturizer is a widely recognized staple in the skincare community, renowned for its no-nonsense approach to deep hydration and skin barrier restoration. At the core of its formulation is a sophisticated blend of three essential ceramides (NP, AP, and EOP). These lipid molecules are fundamental to maintaining healthy skin, as they mimic the natural glue that holds skin cells together. By replenishing these lipids, the cream effectively patches up a compromised barrier, which is essential for individuals suffering from chronic dryness or irritation.

Supporting the ceramides are Cholesterol and Phytosphingosine, ingredients that work synergistically to reinforce the skin’s protective layer. To address immediate hydration needs, the formula utilizes Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate, both powerful humectants that draw moisture into the stratum corneum. This hydration is then locked in by Petrolatum and Dimethicone. While Petrolatum is the gold standard for preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), the formula manages to avoid a greasy finish thanks to the inclusion of silicones and fatty alcohols like Cetearyl Alcohol, which provide a cushiony, matte dry-down.

One of the product’s strongest assets is its minimalist approach to potential irritants. It is completely fragrance-free and eschews drying alcohols, making it an incredibly safe option for those with sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea. The inclusion of Tocopherol (Vitamin E) adds a layer of antioxidant protection, further supporting skin health.

However, the texture and density of this cream may not suit everyone. While it is often marketed as non-comedogenic, the specific combination of Cetearyl Alcohol and Ceteareth-20 has been anecdotally reported to cause congestion in some users. Therefore, individuals who are extremely prone to acne or clogged pores might find this formulation too heavy or occlusive. Additionally, those with oily skin might prefer a lighter, gel-based moisturizer rather than this rich cream.

Ultimately, this is a powerhouse product for dry to very dry skin. It offers clinical-grade barrier support at an accessible price point, serving as a reliable protective blanket that keeps moisture in and environmental aggressors out.

Who Is This Product For?

People with dry to very dry skin requiring intense moisture.
Individuals with a compromised skin barrier or conditions like eczema.
Those seeking affordable, fragrance-free skincare basics.

Who Should Avoid This Product?

People with extremely oily skin who may find the texture too heavy.
Individuals sensitive to fatty alcohols or those who find the Cetearyl Alcohol/Ceteareth-20 combination pore-clogging.

Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Base Ingredients / 基础成分

🧪 AQUA / WATER / EAU / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The primary carrier for the other ingredients.

📁 Moisturizers & Emollients / 保湿剂与润肤剂

🧪 GLYCERIN / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Attracts moisture to the skin to keep it hydrated.

🧪 CETEARYL ALCOHOL / 鲸蜡硬脂醇

Purpose: Emollient / Texture Enhancer

Concerns: None

Notes: A fatty alcohol that softens the skin and stabilizes the emulsion; not drying.

🧪 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE / 辛酸/癸酸甘油三酯

Purpose: Emollient

Concerns: None

Notes: Derived from coconut oil and glycerin; leaves a non-greasy feel.

🧪 CETYL ALCOHOL / 鲸蜡醇

Purpose: Emollient / Stabilizer

Concerns: None

Notes: Another fatty alcohol helping to thicken the product.

🧪 PETROLATUM / 矿脂

Purpose: Occlusive

Concerns: None

Notes: Forms a seal over the skin to prevent moisture loss; highly effective.

🧪 DIMETHICONE / 聚二甲基硅氧烷

Purpose: Emollient / Occlusive

Concerns: None

Notes: A silicone that provides a silky slip and forms a protective barrier.

🧪 SODIUM HYALURONATE / 透明质酸钠

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Salt form of hyaluronic acid; holds 1000x its weight in water.