As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This review is independent — see our Affiliate Disclosure.
Quick Answer
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a thick, ceramide-rich face-and-body moisturizer that’s become the default recommendation for genuinely dry or barrier-compromised skin. The large 19oz tub, fragrance-free formula, and dermatologist-developed ceramide blend make it one of the best value moisturizers in the entire category.
What Is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream?
This is CeraVe’s flagship product — a thick, cream-weight moisturizer built on the same three-ceramide foundation as the rest of the line, plus hyaluronic acid for hydration and MVE delivery technology for extended, slow-release moisture over the course of the day or night.
Unlike the lighter PM lotion, this is formulated for both face and body use, and its thicker consistency is specifically designed for skin that needs more than a lightweight lotion can provide.
Why We Recommend It
This is arguably the most recommended moisturizer in dermatology for a reason: it’s a genuinely well-formulated ceramide cream at a mass-market price, in a large enough tub that it actually lasts. For skin that’s dry from environment, aging, over-cleansing, or eczema, the ceramide-plus-hyaluronic-acid combination directly targets barrier repair rather than just providing surface hydration.
Being usable on both face and body also means one tub genuinely replaces two or three separate products for a lot of people, which is part of why it’s such a consistent best-seller.
Pros
- Thick, effective texture built for genuinely dry or compromised skin
- Ceramide-plus-hyaluronic-acid formula repairs the barrier, not just surface hydration
- Large 19oz tub offers excellent value for the amount of product
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and suitable for face and body
- One of the most consistently recommended moisturizers in dermatology
Cons
- Too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin as a daily facial moisturizer
- Tub packaging (versus a pump) means less hygienic dispensing unless you scoop with clean hands or a spatula
Who Should Buy CeraVe Moisturizing Cream?
A near-universal recommendation for genuinely dry, mature, or barrier-compromised skin, and a smart pick for anyone wanting one moisturizer that works for both face and body.
If your skin is oily, combination, or acne-prone, CeraVe’s lighter PM lotion or an oil-free option will likely serve you better than this thicker cream.
How to Use It
- Apply to clean, slightly damp skin, morning and/or night.
- Use a clean spatula or wash hands before scooping from the tub to avoid contamination.
- Can be used on both face and body — a smart way to simplify a routine.
Our Verdict
If you only buy one moisturizer for genuinely dry skin, this is the safest, most evidence-backed default — a large tub of dermatologist-favored ceramide cream at a price that’s hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use CeraVe Moisturizing Cream on my face and body?
Yes, it’s formulated to be safe and effective for both, which is part of what makes it such good value.
Is it good for eczema-prone skin?
Many people with eczema and very dry skin find this formula well-tolerated, since it’s fragrance-free and ceramide-rich, though those with diagnosed eczema should follow their dermatologist’s specific guidance.
Will it clog pores?
It’s formulated to be non-comedogenic, though its thick texture may still feel too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin as a daily facial product.
Related Guides
See the full Best Products for Dry Skin guide for how this compares to the other top picks, or browse all our skincare recommendations.