This comparison covers the US Healing Ointments, not separate lip balms, sprays or CeraVe Baby Healing Ointment. Check the ingredients on your package before buying, because formulas can change.34
What actually differs?
| Detail | Aquaphor Healing Ointment | CeraVe Healing Ointment |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Petrolatum 41% | Petrolatum 46.5% |
| Other notable ingredients | Mineral oil, lanolin alcohol, glycerin, panthenol and bisabolol | Mineral oil, dimethicone, three ceramides, cholesterol, hyaluronic acid and panthenol |
| Lanolin | Contains lanolin alcohol | Lanolin free |
| Fragrance | Fragrance free | Fragrance free |
| Texture | Ointment rather than a lotion or cream | Balm; described by CeraVe as having a non greasy feel |
| Directions | Apply as needed | Apply a thin layer after cleansing and moisturizing; reapply as needed |
| Price | Check the retailer's current price | US website lists $20.99; compare package sizes before comparing value |
Which should you pick?
CeraVe is the straightforward choice if you need to avoid lanolin. Its ceramides help support the skin's moisture barrier, and hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture. CeraVe Healing Ointment also has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and is described as suitable for sensitive and eczema prone skin. Sensitive skin still calls for checking ingredients that have caused you problems before.15
Aquaphor is an option for chapped lips, cracked hands and feet, and protection from wind and cold. Its regular Healing Ointment also has directions for treating and preventing diaper rash. For that use, change wet or soiled diapers promptly, cleanse the area, let it dry, then apply generously with each change, especially before prolonged exposure to wet diapers.23
For ordinary dry patches, both fit the same basic job: protecting skin and helping relieve dryness. Both also cover minor cuts, scrapes and burns.34
How do you use them for dry skin?
- 1Cleanse gently. After washing or bathing, pat skin rather than rubbing it dry.
- 2Apply moisturizer while skin is still damp. For CeraVe Healing Ointment, follow the brand's directions: moisturize first, then apply a thin layer of ointment to affected areas on your face or body.
- 3For Aquaphor, apply as needed to the affected skin. Its label does not specify a separate moisturizer step.
- 4Reapply when skin feels dry. CeraVe can be used during the day or at night, including before bed to help hold in moisture while you sleep.
What should you expect?
An ointment forms a protective layer on the skin rather than immediately disappearing into it. CeraVe describes protection lasting up to eight hours; that is barrier duration, not a deadline for cracked skin to heal. These products provide temporary relief and protection, not a fixed recovery schedule, despite the ambitious job title on the jar.15
When should you stop or get help?
Keep Aquaphor out of your eyes, and do not use it on deep or puncture wounds, animal bites or serious burns. Stop Aquaphor and ask a doctor if the condition worsens, lasts more than seven days, or clears and returns within a few days. Tell a dermatologist if moisturizer causes burning, stinging or irritation. Persistent dryness despite regular care also deserves an appointment rather than another ointment purchase.26
Where this answer comes from
- 1CeraVe® Healing Ointmentnationaleczema.org
- 2DailyMed - AQUAPHOR HEALING- petrolatum ointmentdailymed.nlm.nih.gov
- 3Aquaphor® Healing Ointment 14oz | Multi-Purposeaquaphorus.com
- 4Protective Skin Ointmentcerave.com
- 5Healing Ointment for Very Dry, Chafed & Cracked Skincerave.com
- 6Dermatologists' top tips for relieving dry skinaad.org
