What It Is
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free moisturizer formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II) and hyaluronic acid. Available as an AM formula with SPF 30 or PM formula for nighttime, this cream costs around $12-15 for a generous jar. With its minimal ingredient list and focus on skin barrier function, it's become the go-to recommendation for dermatologists and beauty enthusiasts worldwide. But does it deserve all the acclaim?
My Experience Using CeraVe
I tested both the AM and PM versions of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream over eight weeks, incorporating them into my morning and evening routines. The texture is lightweight for a cream—more like a thick lotion that spreads easily and absorbs within minutes without leaving greasiness. The formula is fragrance-free and unscented, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
The AM formula with SPF 30 is my preferred daytime option. It provides sun protection without white cast and works beautifully under makeup. The moisturizing benefit is noticeable—my skin felt hydrated throughout the day without needing additional moisturizer layers. The PM formula is richer and perfect for nighttime, providing deeper hydration while skin regenerates. After two weeks of consistent use, my skin barrier felt noticeably stronger, redness decreased, and my complexion looked healthier.
Pros and Cons
The Pros: The price is exceptional—you get dermatologist-recommended, effective skincare for under $15. Both AM and PM formulas provide genuine hydration and barrier support. The fragrance-free formulation is perfect for sensitive skin, rosacea, and post-procedure skin. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid are exactly what damaged skin barriers need for repair. The ingredient list is simple and clean without unnecessary additives. It works for ALL skin types—oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. The generous jar size lasts for months of twice-daily use. It layers beautifully with other products.
The Cons: Despite being called a "cream," the texture is more lotion-like, which may not feel sufficient for extremely dry skin during winter. The formula lacks active anti-aging ingredients like retinol or peptides, so it's maintenance-focused rather than treatment-focused. It contains some preservatives (phenoxyethanol), which some people prefer to avoid. The light formulation may not provide enough occlusion for very compromised skin barriers, though layering with a heavier cream solves this. It takes consistent use to see barrier-strengthening results—this isn't an overnight transformation product.
Who It's Best For
CeraVe is perfect for anyone with sensitive, compromised, or barrier-damaged skin. It's ideal for post-procedure skin or after harsh treatments. It's excellent for those dealing with eczema, rosacea, or dermatitis. It's great for people with combination or oily skin who need hydration without heaviness. It's perfect for anyone on a budget who wants dermatologist-recommended skincare. It's ideal as a foundation moisturizer to layer with treatment serums. It's NOT ideal for those seeking anti-aging actives—pair it with serums containing retinol or vitamin C for that. It's not a solution alone for very severe dryness without layering.
The Verdict
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream deserves every bit of internet acclaim it receives. This is one of the rare products where the hype is actually justified because the product delivers exactly what it promises. It's not a sexy, results-driven product with visible transformations—it's a foundational product that quietly strengthens your skin barrier and provides essential hydration. For the price point, it's impossible to find anything better. The combination of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and smart formulation at under $15 is genuinely remarkable.
The AM formula with SPF is my favorite daytime moisturizer under $20. The PM formula is an excellent nighttime option. This cream should be in every skincare collection, especially if you have sensitive or compromised skin. Yes, the internet's obsession with CeraVe is 100% warranted. This is legitimately one of the best skincare investments you can make.
Where to Buy
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is available on Amazon in both AM and PM formulations. The generous jar size and affordable price make it one of the best skincare values available. One jar provides months of daily use, making the cost per application incredibly low. Stock up—once you start using it, you won't want to run out.