5 replies to this topic

[alpaca123]

I have found CeraVe lotion to be the best moisturizing lotion out there. With winter dryness coming on, I was wondering if anyone could compare the CeraVe cream with the CeraVe lotion in terms of moisturizing power, greasiness etc. CeraVe's just a little too expensive to do a trial comparison between the two and I was wondering if anyone could compare the two CeraVe products.

[asburypark101]

Typically creams are thicker than lotions. Creams usually are better moisteruizers than lotions, but some individuals claim that the creams cause acne because of their thickness. Another complaint is that the cream does not absorb in the skin as well and can make the skin look more shiny than when using a lotion. I am not certain about CeraVe products, but this is general info on creams and lotions.

[gemmyjunebug]

If you compare the ingredients next to each other will see the CeraVe Lotion uses Glycerin as it's main moisturizing property. The CeraVe Cream uses Glycerin as well, but also adds Petrolatum ( mineral oil/Vaseline) into the mix. Which would give the cream a heavier feel on the skin- like a barrier. Not a huge fan of mineral oil. The Glycerin in the lotion will mimic the skins moisturizing abilities. Making it a great ingredient for dry, compromised, acne-prone, skin. I feel like mineral oil just creates a barrier on the skin which is great if you have normal skin. But if you have normal skin you wouldn't be using a cream in the first place. I could see this being a great cream for the body but not so much for the face.
I would stay with the lotion if it working for you. If your concerned about winter dryness-apply more through out day. Which is totally normal. Winter is colder,drier, and your skin will need more attention than in the other months. Try applying right out of the shower when your skin is damp or after washing your face. The extra water will help your skin and the Glycerin pulls water to and back into the skin.

[alpaca123]

Thank you very much for your responses! I will stick with extra lotion for now.

[gemmyjunebug]

asburypark101, on 29 December 2011 - 12:22 AM, said:

Typically creams are thicker than lotions. Creams usually are better moisteruizers than lotions, but some individuals claim that the creams cause acne because of their thickness. Another complaint is that the cream does not absorb in the skin as well and can make the skin look more shiny than when using a lotion. I am not certain about CeraVe products, but this is general info on creams and lotions.

The complaint about the CeraVe Cream lack of absorption along with it being shiny is due to the Mineral Oil/vaseline/petrolatum(whatever fancy name you want to call it). It makes perfect sense. Vaseline creates a barrier along with the greasy shine described. It doesn't necessarily harm the skin-it doesn't heal or hydrate either. Unless the use of another product designed for hydration is used underneath the cream. Which would be great for severe weather extremes or healing of cracked, burned, skin. Thank you for the great observation!!! Reading product ingredients makes purchasing a product so much easier. You also find out that most products(price aside) are ingredient same. Formulation is where products make it or break for me! There really isn't any wonder products. Active ingredients are another story. Some of the best products are the ones without all these said "wonder" ingredients. Basic ingredients get overlooked when said ingredients are added. The basic are generally what make it work!

[adalyn]

So... I've tried both and prefer the lotion. I've used the lotion and the cream over different winters and like the lotion better because it absorbs and moisturizes the skin. I didn't really like the cream because it felt sticky, and instead of being absorbed into my skin, it felt like like it sat on top of my skin to create a barrier. The cream also worsened my acne.

The lotion is my HG go to moisturizer for my face. Not only is it moisturizing, but it's also really great for sensitive skin, which is what I have. It really helps soothe burning sensations from my benzoyl peroxide or AHA treatments. Plus, it doesn't aggravate acne! Been using this since my skin started clearing up, and haven't looked back.

Edited by adalyn, 01 January 2012 - 10:25 PM.