CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

A restorative, fragrance-free gel-cream serum formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5, and three essential Ceramides to hydrate and repair the skin barrier.

Performance Rating: 4.5

This serum delivers a highly effective barrier-repairing mechanism by utilizing a specific combination of Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP), Cholesterol, and Phytosphingosine. This mimics the skin’s natural lipid structure, making it exceptional for restoring compromised skin. The hydration profile is robust, featuring Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin to attract moisture, while Panthenol (Vitamin B5) provides immediate soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. Dimethicone acts as a gentle occlusive to lock this moisture in without feeling heavy.

Safety Rating: 4.5

The formula is designed with sensitive skin in mind. It is completely free of fragrance, essential oils, and drying alcohols, which are common irritants. The preservative system (Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin) is standard and well-tolerated. The presence of Isopropyl Myristate and Cetearyl Alcohol suggests a rich texture, but users with extremely acne-prone skin should be aware that Isopropyl Myristate can be comedogenic for some, although the overall formula is generally regarded as non-comedogenic.

Final Rating: 4.5

This is a gold-standard product for hydration and barrier maintenance. It avoids unnecessary fillers and focuses strictly on physiological lipids and humectants. It is suitable for almost all skin types, particularly those dealing with dehydration, dryness, or sensitivity. It serves as an excellent foundational serum that pairs well with active ingredients like retinoids or exfoliating acids.

Verdict

This facial serum presents itself as a highly restorative formulation designed to tackle dehydration and barrier compromise simultaneously. Unlike watery serums that disappear instantly, the ingredient list suggests a nourishing gel-cream texture, primarily due to the inclusion of Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, and Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate. These emollients work to soften the skin immediately upon application while providing a protective seal that prevents moisture loss. The star of the show here is undoubtedly the inclusion of Sodium Hyaluronate, a salt form of Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates easily to bind water to the skin cells. This hydration is heavily supported by Glycerin and Panthenol (Vitamin B5). Panthenol is particularly noteworthy for its ability to soothe inflammation and accelerate healing, making this serum a strong candidate for sensitive or reactive skin types. Furthermore, the formulation adheres to a philosophy of skin-identical restoration. It features a robust trio of Ceramides (NP, AP, and EOP) alongside Cholesterol and Phytosphingosine. These lipids are the mortar between skin cells; replenishing them is crucial for maintaining a healthy stratum corneum and keeping irritants out. This makes the product exceptionally useful for those repairing a moisture barrier damaged by over-exfoliation or harsh environmental factors. The preservative system, relying on Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin, is standard and generally well-tolerated. However, prospective users with acne-prone skin should exercise a degree of caution regarding Isopropyl Myristate. While this ingredient acts as a fantastic skin-conditioning agent that reduces the greasy feel of oils, it is known to be potentially comedogenic for certain individuals, leading to clogged pores. Despite this potential caveat, the absence of fragrance, drying alcohols, and essential oils makes this a dermatologist-friendly option. It effectively bridges the gap between a traditional serum and a lightweight lotion, offering a multi-dimensional approach to skin health that hydrates, soothes, and fortifies the barrier in one step.

Who Is This Product For?

People with Dry or Dehydrated Skin looking for lasting moisture.
Those with a Compromised Skin Barrier due to harsh weather or actives.
Individuals with Sensitive Skin seeking fragrance-free options.

Who Should Avoid This Product?

Those with Acne-Prone Skin sensitive to Isopropyl Myristate, which can be comedogenic.
People who prefer completely Silicone-Free skincare routines.

Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvent / 溶剂

🧪 AQUA / WATER / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The base of the serum, acts as a carrier for other ingredients.

📁 Humectants & Soothing Agents / 保湿与舒缓成分

🧪 GLYCERIN / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: A superstar ingredient that attracts water to the skin.

🧪 SODIUM HYALURONATE / 透明质酸钠

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid; excellent at holding moisture.

🧪 PANTHENOL / 泛醇 (维生素B5)

Purpose: Soothing, Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Also known as Pro-Vitamin B5, it protects the skin barrier and soothes irritation.