CeraVe Moisturizing Cream vs Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

What is actually different?

Both combine moisture attracting ingredients with ceramides, fats that help the skin barrier keep moisture in and irritants out. CeraVe's petrolatum creates a physical barrier that limits water loss. Vanicream takes a lighter lotion approach and contains no botanical extracts or essential oils. Choose the texture your skin needs rather than treating three versus five ceramides as a strength rating.123

Which should you choose?

• For pronounced dryness, start with CeraVe. General dry skin guidance favors creams over lotions because they preserve more moisture.
• For a lighter facial routine, choose Vanicream. Its quick absorbing lotion is designed to sit under makeup.
• For combination skin, use moisturizer on dry areas rather than automatically applying the same amount everywhere. Vanicream is the lighter of these two options.
• For one moisturizer for face and body, choose CeraVe. CeraVe covers both face and body, so the product name does not require a separate bathroom shelf for each.

Vanicream is designed to leave a smooth finish under makeup, where moisturizer has a supporting role rather than top billing. That makes it the more directly matched option if makeup layering is your main priority.2

How do you use either moisturizer?

1. 1Cleanse gently, then pat your skin rather than rubbing it dry. Apply moisturizer while skin is still damp to help trap water.
2. 2If you use a serum or treatment, put moisturizer after it. Vanicream places its lotion after serum; CeraVe places its cream after the treatment step.
3. 3Smooth moisturizer gently over the areas that need it. CeraVe directs liberal application; Vanicream directs application as needed.
4. 4In the morning, follow with sunscreen before makeup. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
5. 5Repeat at night. Reapply when skin feels dry; Vanicream allows morning and evening use, while CeraVe allows application as often as needed.

What should you expect?

Vanicream offers immediate hydration and, with regular use, softer and smoother skin. CeraVe absorbs quickly and uses a delivery system that releases moisturizing ingredients gradually. Neither has a specified number of days for visible improvement.23

What if your skin is sensitive?

CeraVe is fragrance free, and Vanicream is formulated for sensitive skin. Both are labeled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Neither label should decide the choice ahead of a known ingredient sensitivity: check the pack and discuss a specific ingredient concern with your dermatologist.123

This comparison uses the US CeraVe formula and the named Vanicream facial lotion. A separate regional CeraVe listing includes methylparaben and propylparaben, unlike the US ingredient list shown here. Check your package's current ingredients before buying, particularly if you avoid a specific ingredient.17

If moisturizer causes burning, stinging or irritation, tell your dermatologist. Seek care if dryness persists despite moisturizing or becomes painful, cracked or bleeding. Follow an existing prescribed dry skin treatment plan rather than treating either moisturizer as a replacement for medication. Keep fabrics carrying moisturizer residue away from flames and cigarettes, because emollient residue increases their fire risk.456