CeraVe Moisturizing Cream vs CeraVe PM

What is actually different?

Both moisturizers help hydrate skin and support its protective barrier, the outer layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Hyaluronic acid attracts water; ceramides help maintain that barrier. Cream also contains petrolatum, an ingredient that helps hold existing moisture in the skin. PM's niacinamide is an additional ingredient, not a reason to assume the lotion is more moisturizing.1234

Which one should you choose?

• For very dry skin, start with Cream. Creams generally retain more moisture than lotions, especially when cold air and indoor heating make dryness worse.
• For a lighter nighttime facial moisturizer, choose PM. Texture preference matters; having dry skin does not automatically rule out a lotion.
• For combination skin, moisturize the dry areas rather than automatically coating every area equally. Oily areas do not always need the same amount.
• For one moisturizer for face and body, choose Cream. The Cream covers face and body, which is a useful amount of work for a product with such an uneventful name.

Cream is described as suitable for sensitive skin, and both products are fragrance free. Noncomedogenic means formulated not to clog pores; it does not settle how your skin will react. Introduce only one new moisturizer at a time so you can identify the culprit if irritation develops.124

CeraVe's US listing prices Moisturizing Cream at $14.99. Compare the actual package sizes and retailer prices before deciding which costs less per ounce; the purchase price alone is not enough to rank value.3

How should you apply them?

1. 1Cleanse gently, then leave skin slightly damp. Moisturizer traps water more effectively when applied before skin dries completely.
2. 2Follow your prescribed treatment's directions first. Some prescription creams and active products need to go on before moisturizer.
3. 3Apply your chosen moisturizer. CeraVe tells you to use Cream liberally as often as needed; use PM as the final nighttime step after your other skincare.
4. 4Make moisturizing a consistent routine, generally morning and night. In the morning, finish with broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, following its application and reapplication directions.

What should you expect, and when should you stop?

Moisturizing should help dry skin feel softer and more comfortable. With effective home care, dry skin often improves within two weeks; that is a general dry skin timeline, not a contest between these two jars and bottles. Persistent or worsening dryness needs a dermatologist's assessment rather than an endless switch between textures.45

Stop using a new moisturizer if it causes irritation or a rash, and contact a healthcare provider. Seek a dermatologist's help if dryness becomes painful, cracked, bleeding or persistently stinging. Moisturizer can complement prescription care, but follow your clinician's treatment instructions.47