The gold standard drugstore moisturizer. Three essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide rebuild the skin barrier while locking in moisture. Developed with dermatologists, fragrance-free, suitable for eczema-prone skin.
Score breakdown
Efficacy
Safety
Comedogenicity
Transparency
Skin-type fit
Strengths
- Three essential ceramides for barrier repair
- Fragrance-free, non-irritating
- Niacinamide + hyaluronic acid
- Excellent value (large format)
Weaknesses
- Contains petrolatum (occlusive, may feel heavy)
- Dimethicone can trap irritants
- No active anti-aging ingredients
Full ingredient list
Best for
Our full review
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is arguably the most recommended moisturizer in dermatology. Developed with dermatologists, it contains three essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) that make up 50% of your skin's natural barrier, plus hyaluronic acid for hydration and niacinamide for barrier support. The MVE (MultiVesicular Emulsion) technology releases these ingredients gradually over 24 hours rather than dumping them all at once. At around 15 EUR for 340g, the value is unmatched in the ceramide moisturizer category. It's the moisturizer dermatologists recommend when they don't want to recommend a specific brand - because it simply works for almost everyone.
How to use
Apply to slightly damp skin (within 3 minutes of washing) to lock in moisture. Use a pea-sized amount for the face, more for the body. Can be used morning and night. In winter or for very dry skin, layer over a hyaluronic acid serum for extra hydration. The tub format is more hygienic with a spatula - avoid dipping fingers directly to prevent bacterial contamination.
Who is it for?
Best for: dry to normal skin, eczema-prone skin, sensitive skin, post-procedure recovery, anyone wanting a simple effective moisturizer. Less ideal for: very oily skin (may feel heavy), those who dislike thick textures, people who need anti-aging actives (it moisturizes but doesn't treat wrinkles).
What to expect
Week 1-2: immediate hydration relief, skin feels softer. Week 3-4: skin barrier starts strengthening, less sensitivity and tightness. Month 2+: consistent hydration, reduced flaking, calmer skin. Don't expect: wrinkle reduction, brightening, acne treatment. This is a barrier repair moisturizer, not a treatment product.
Common mistakes
1. Applying to dry skin - always apply to damp skin for best absorption. 2. Using too much on oily skin - a tiny amount is enough. 3. Expecting anti-aging results - it moisturizes but doesn't treat wrinkles. 4. Storing with lid open - the tub format can dry out. 5. Not using SPF on top in the morning - CeraVe has no UV protection.
FAQ
Is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream good for acne-prone skin?
CeraVe tub vs tube - is there a difference?
Can I use CeraVe Moisturizing Cream with retinol?
How it compares
CeraVe is better for daily moisturizing (ceramides, larger format, better value). Cicaplast is better for acute repair (post-procedure, burns, intense irritation). Think of CeraVe as your daily driver and Cicaplast as your emergency repair kit.
Neutrogena is lighter and better for oily skin, but contains fragrance (CeraVe doesn't). CeraVe has ceramides for barrier repair (Neutrogena doesn't). For dry/sensitive skin, CeraVe wins. For oily skin wanting lightweight hydration, Neutrogena wins - but check the fragrance-free version.