# CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry sensitive skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your dry and sensitive skin, as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide humectant benefits, while ceramides and cholesterol support barrier repair. While effective for general dryness, the formula lacks ingredients that specifically target flakiness or offer enhanced soothing for sensitivity.
- The inclusion of petrolatum and dimethicone ensures a good occlusive layer to prevent moisture loss, which is beneficial for dry skin.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and featuring a blend of soothing components like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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/))
- A lipid mixture enriched by ceramide NP with fatty acids of diverse chain lengths significantly improved skin barrier recovery rate, stratum corneum integrity, and hydration compared to a vehicle cream in healthy adult male volunteers with corticosteroid-impaired skin. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34348350/))
- Petrolatum-based skin protectants demonstrated protection against irritants and maceration while providing skin hydration, whereas dimethicone and zinc oxide products showed varying or limited performance across parameters among 18 healthy volunteers compared to positive and negative controls. ([Ostomy/wound Management, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16439809/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## Why other moisturizers fit dry sensitive skin better

- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- Nanoemulsions containing Macadamia integrifolia seed oil successfully enhanced skin hydration and reduced wrinkles in human volunteers, outperforming conventional emulsions in skin hydration enhancement. ([Nanomaterials, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38668218/))

## 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

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using this moisturizer 3 times a week and move to daily use if your dry skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toner in the morning, or after your serum in the evening. Always pair it with SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing it harshly to protect your sensitive skin.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help with hydration absorption. This also works well for dry and flaky skin types.
- Do a patch test before your first use. Avoid the eye area to prevent any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does CeraVe Moisturizing Cream work for dry sensitive skin?

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream works moderately well for dry sensitive skin by locking in moisture with petrolatum and dimethicone while supporting the skin barrier with ceramides and glycerin. However, because it lacks ingredients that specifically target flakiness or offer extra soothing for sensitivity, dry sensitive skin needs a moisturizer that includes additional calming extracts, soothing agents, and rich smoothing ingredients for optimal comfort.
Sources: [Ostomy/wound Management, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16439809/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate bring in moisture, ceramides and cholesterol help repair the skin barrier, and petrolatum and dimethicone lock it all in to prevent water loss. Because this is an average fit, a moisturizer for dry sensitive skin needs extra ingredients to target flakiness and provide enhanced soothing.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34348350/)

### What do Ceramides do for dry sensitive skin?

Ceramides help lock in moisture and strengthen dry sensitive skin so it feels more comfortable and less reactive. Using them regularly may help reduce dryness, scaling, and water loss while supporting overall barrier health.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27251427/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34921679/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

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

This cream goes at the end of your evening routine after your treatment, and your moisturizer with SPF handles your morning routine. A daily moisturizer helps keep dry skin soft and is unlikely to irritate sensitive areas, though this type needs ingredients that target flakiness and soothe sensitivity for the best fit.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the cream after your retinol treatment in your evening routine. Using a barrier-enhancing moisturizer with ceramides and glycerin helps support skin during retinization and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing cream daily to help keep your dry skin soft and prevent moisture loss. For best results, apply it as part of your evening routine after cleansing and treating your skin.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14571069/)

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin, as it has a very low rate of reviewer complaints about breakouts and contains no harsh ingredients. However, because it uses heavy ingredients like petrolatum to lock in moisture, it may feel too rich if your skin is prone to congestion.
Sources: [Ostomy/wound Management, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16439809/)

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

Yes, you can use this cream on your body and around the eyes to keep skin soft and prevent moisture loss. To better fit dry sensitive skin, a product of this type needs added ingredients that specifically target flakiness and offer enhanced soothing for sensitivity.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34348350/)

### 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 dry sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £14.74 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £11.40 at Amazon
- [L'Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/l-occitane/immortelle-divine-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £61.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Real Barrier Mild Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/real-barrier/mild-sun-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £19.01 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £11.65 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07CHPWFXK?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £4.30 (https://www.notino.co.uk/cerave/moisturizers-moisturizing-face-and-body-milk-for-dry-to-very-dry-skin/p-16298665/)
- Lookfantastic: £13.13 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/cerave-moisturising-cream-pot-with-ceramides-for-dry-to-very-dry-skin-454g/11798691/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 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/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin