# CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/cerave)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for combination skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your combination skin due to glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, but petrolatum and dimethicone may increase oily shine in certain areas.
- While ceramide NP, AP, and EOP support the skin barrier, the formula lacks targeted ingredients for oil control, which is your main goal.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin): Low (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

3 Essential Ceramides, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Cholesterol

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))
- Botulinum toxin-A encapsulated in phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol nanoliposomes delivered transdermally achieved a diffusion depth of 380 μm and showed a nonsignificant advantage in relieving post-acne scarring compared to hyaluronic acid hydrogel treatment in 12 facial patients. ([Journal of Materials Science. Materials in Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39073502/))
- Topical application of cholesterol sulfate increases stratum corneum thickness and inhibits protease-induced cell dissociation by competitively inhibiting serine proteases in mice and human stratum corneum. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9699715/))
- Topical lovastatin treatment impairs the recovery of cutaneous permeability barrier function and stratum corneum cholesterol levels after acetone disruption in mice, an effect normalized by simultaneous treatment with mevalonate or cholesterol. ([The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 1990](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2243142/))

## What reviewers say

A small number of users with acne-prone skin reported breakouts, and some experienced a stinging sensation, particularly on compromised barriers.

- Liked: Deep hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and soothing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-greasy texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Value and versatility (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Burning sensation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream a weak match for combination skin?

This cream is a weak match for combination skin because heavy ingredients like petrolatum and dimethicone may increase oily shine in certain areas, and it lacks the targeted oil control ingredients you need. A moisturizer for this skin type needs balancing and brightening ingredients that hydrate without adding excess oil.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for combination skin?

Petrolatum and dimethicone make this cream a weak fit for your combination skin because they may increase oily shine in certain areas, and the formula lacks targeted ingredients for oil control. A moisturizer for combination skin needs effective brightening and moisturizing ingredients to reduce oily shine without causing irritation, along with soothing agents, antioxidants, peptides, and natural moisturizing factors.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What do Ceramides do for combination skin?

Ceramides help keep combination skin balanced by supporting the skin barrier to lock in moisture without feeling heavy. They are a good fit because they help protect dry areas while keeping oily zones calm and comfortable. This type of skin needs lightweight hydrators and skin-repairing ingredients to keep the barrier strong across both oily and dry areas.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12553851/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This cream goes toward the end of your morning and evening routines after your lighter steps, though it is a weak match for combination skin. Heavier moisturizers for this skin need lighter hydrators and ingredients that help control oil shine.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the retinol first and following with the cream to help keep your skin soft and reduce potential irritation. Combination skin of this type needs a lightweight hydrator with targeted oil control ingredients instead of heavy petrolatum and dimethicone.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648223/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a weak match for your combination skin because heavy ingredients like petrolatum and dimethicone may increase oily shine in certain areas. To better fit this skin type, a moisturizer should provide hydration while also including targeted ingredients for oil control.

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause breakouts for combination skin, though reviewers mention it happens rarely. Combination skin needs a moisturizer with oil-balancing ingredients to manage shine.

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

This cream is suitable for use on the body and around the eyes, where the skin is much thinner than on the rest of the face. It helps keep these areas soft and protected, though a body moisturizer typically needs ingredients like ceramides and rich oils to support skin everywhere.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon
- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $12.50 at Amazon

## Routine for combination skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $14.97 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $50.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $18.90 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $39.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $50.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $69.00 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/herbivore-botanicals/blue-tansy-bha-and-enzyme-pore-refining-mask/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $58.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $39.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $18.96 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TTD9BRC?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Petrolatum, Dimethicone, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin