Is CeraVe PM good for sensitive skin?

What makes it suitable for sensitive skin?

The Canadian lotion contains three essential ceramides to help maintain the protective skin barrier, hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture, and niacinamide to help calm skin. The skin barrier is the outer protective layer that keeps moisture in and potential irritants out. CeraVe PM is a lightweight lotion rather than a rich cream, so the night moisturiser category does not require a duvet texture.13

Fragrance free means a formula contains neither fragrance chemicals nor masking scents. Unscented is different: a product can have no obvious smell while still containing fragrance chemicals. Check the ingredient list for anything that has caused trouble before, even if the front of the bottle calls the product hypoallergenic.4

In the UK, CeraVe identifies Facial Moisturising Lotion as the counterpart to PM, with a different preservative system. Check your own package before buying or replacing a bottle, because ingredient lists are updated regularly.56

How should you test CeraVe PM first?

1. 1Choose a spot about the size of a quarter on the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow, where the lotion will not be rubbed or washed away.
2. 2Apply the amount and thickness you would normally use, twice daily for seven to 10 days.
3. 3Leave the lotion on rather than washing it off, as you would during normal moisturiser use.
4. 4If the test area stays free of redness, itching and swelling, begin using the lotion on your face.

How do you fit it into your routine?

1. 1Cleanse your face. General moisturising guidance is to apply moisturiser while skin is still slightly damp to help trap water.
2. 2Apply any serums or treatments you already use, then moisturiser. Follow separate directions for prescribed treatments.
3. 3CeraVe's Canadian directions are to apply PM liberally to the face and neck at night.
4. 4For morning use, finish with a separate broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or above. PM contains no SPF.

General facial moisturising guidance is twice daily, morning and night. CeraVe PM can be used at either time, and its delivery system gradually releases moisturising ingredients. The routine can be cleanser, lotion and daytime sunscreen; a moisturiser does not need an entourage of toners and serums.13

What if CeraVe PM irritates your skin?

If you develop redness, itching or swelling, gently wash the lotion off as soon as possible and stop using it. A cool compress or petroleum jelly can help relieve the reaction. See a dermatologist if the reaction is severe and those measures do not relieve it. If the trigger is unclear or reactions keep happening, a dermatologist can arrange medical patch testing to identify the cause. That is different from trying a product on a small area at home.2

CeraVe PM for oily acne prone skin

The Canadian PM lotion is oil free and noncomedogenic, meaning it is formulated not to clog pores. Those are useful features for oily skin that is also sensitive, rather than a promise of zero breakouts. Moisturising daily can help skin tolerate drying acne treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, adapalene, tretinoin and prescription isotretinoin. Treat PM as the moisturiser in an acne routine, not as a replacement for acne medication.17