Is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream oil free?

Does oil free mean lightweight?

Not for the Australian cream: CeraVe describes a rich, thick texture with a non greasy finish. The Australian version is a rich cream, so "oil free" is not a request for it to behave like water. It is intended especially for dry to very dry skin and can be used on the face and body. If you want a lighter facial moisturizer, CeraVe points to its PM Facial Moisturising Lotion instead.1

Does CeraVe Moisturizing Cream contain petrolatum?

Yes. Both the US and Australian ingredient lists contain petrolatum. Petrolatum forms a protective seal that helps lock in moisture, so the Australian oil free label does not mean petrolatum free. If avoiding petrolatum is your actual goal, the listed plain cream formulas do not meet it.1

Does CeraVe Moisturizing Cream contain niacinamide?

No niacinamide appears in the complete US or Australian ingredient lists for the plain Moisturizing Cream. The US formula does list glycerin, three ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, dimethicone and cholesterol. Do not confuse the plain cream with SA Cream for Rough & Bumpy Skin or Skin Renewing Night Cream: those separate products contain niacinamide. The listed SA Cream also contains mineral oil.1234

Is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream fragrance free?

Yes. CeraVe identifies the Australian cream as fragrance free, and its US FAQ states that all CeraVe products are fragrance free. Fragrance free means no fragrance; an unscented product can contain masking fragrances. Fragrances can irritate sensitive skin, so the distinction matters if fragrance is what you need to avoid.15

How should you apply the cream?

1. 1For the Australian cream, apply after washing your face or showering, while skin is still slightly damp.
2. 2Apply liberally to the face or body where moisture is needed.
3. 3Reapply as often as needed, or follow your physician's directions. Morning and evening use are both suitable.

What if you have sensitive skin?

The Australian cream is labeled suitable for sensitive skin and non comedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. If you have a known ingredient sensitivity, check the full package list and ask your dermatologist about that ingredient. Oil free is not a substitute for checking what you personally need to avoid.15

CeraVe updates ingredient lists regularly. Use the list on your own package when deciding whether the cream meets an ingredient restriction, especially if you are buying outside the US or Australia. The product name alone is not enough to identify the formula.2