Product Overview

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a popular skincare product marketed as a barrier-restoring moisturizer for normal to dry skin. It boasts a simple, fragrance-free formulation designed to hydrate and protect the skin.

Ingredient Analysis

Oil Phase:

• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: A light, non-greasy emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin.
• Petrolatum: A well-known occlusive ingredient that forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss.
• Dimethicone: A silicone-based emollient that provides a silky feel and helps to reduce water loss.
• Ceramides NP, AP, and EOP: These are essential lipids that help to repair and strengthen the skin’s barrier. They can be sourced from various suppliers, including Evonik and BASF.

Aqueous Phase:

• Glycerin: A humectant that draws moisture from the air and into the skin.
• Sodium Hyaluronate: A form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.
• Phytosphingosine: A lipid that can help to strengthen the skin’s barrier.

Emulsifiers and Stabilizers:

• Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20: These alcohols are emulsifiers that help to blend the oil and water phases of the formulation.
• Carbomer: A polymer used as a thickening agent and stabilizer.
• Xanthan Gum: Another polymer used as a thickening agent and stabilizer.

Formulation and Technology

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion. This type of emulsion provides a rich, occlusive feel and is ideal for dry skin. The ceramides, petrolatum, and dimethicone work together to create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss. The hyaluronic acid and glycerin help to attract and retain moisture.

The MVE Delivery Technology mentioned by CeraVe is a patented technology that uses multivesicular emulsions to deliver ingredients to the skin over time. These vesicles are designed to release their contents gradually, providing long-lasting hydration.

Claim Analysis

• Barrier-Restoring: The inclusion of ceramides and petrolatum supports this claim. Ceramides are essential components of the skin’s barrier, and petrolatum forms a protective layer on the skin’s surface.
• Non-Greasy, Fast-Absorbing: The use of light emollients like caprylic/capric triglyceride and dimethicone contributes to the non-greasy feel.
• Gentle on Skin: The fragrance-free formulation and the absence of potentially irritating ingredients make this product suitable for sensitive skin.

Conclusion

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a well-formulated product that effectively addresses the needs of dry, sensitive skin. The inclusion of ceramides and petrolatum is particularly beneficial for repairing and protecting the skin’s barrier. The MVE Delivery Technology is an innovative approach to providing long-lasting hydration.

While the formulation is relatively simple, it is effective and well-tolerated by most people. It is a good choice for those seeking a gentle, hydrating moisturizer.