Cerave Moisturising Cream is a popular moisturiser often recommended for people with eczema and dry skin. It contains ceramides, lipids that help repair the skin’s barrier. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps hydrate the skin.
My Experience with Cerave Moisturiser
I have eczema and dry skin, so I was excited to try Cerave Moisturising Cream. I bought a large tub from a local pharmacy and used it for several months.
Overall, I was disappointed with Cerave Moisturising Cream. It didn’t seem to do much to improve my eczema or dry skin. My skin still felt dry and itchy, and I often had to reapply the moisturiser throughout the day. Additionally, I found that the moisturiser sometimes irritated my skin and made it more itchy.

Key Ingredients in Cerave Moisturiser
- Ceramides: Ceramides are lipids that help repair the skin’s barrier. They are found naturally in the skin, but their levels can be depleted by eczema and other skin conditions.
- Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it helps attract and retain moisture in the skin.
- Petroleum: Petroleum jelly, commonly known as Vaseline, is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. It forms a barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss and protecting the skin from external irritants.
- Dimethicone: Dimethicone is a silicone type that creates a protective barrier on the skin, similar to petroleum. It also has a silky texture that can make the skin feel smooth.
Do petroleum and dimethicone make sense in a daily skincare moisturiser?
There’s some debate about using petroleum and dimethicone in daily moisturisers, especially for eczema-prone or dry skin. Here’s why:
Petroleum:
- Pros: It’s very effective at preventing moisture loss and protecting the skin. It’s also hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores).
- Cons: It can feel greasy and heavy on the skin, which may be uncomfortable for some people. It may also trap heat and sweat, potentially exacerbating eczema in some cases.
Dimethicone:
- Pros: It creates a smooth, silky feel on the skin and helps to lock in moisture. It’s also non-comedogenic.
- Cons: Like petroleum, it can trap heat and sweat, which may irritate sensitive skin. Some people find it doesn’t allow the skin to breathe as well as other ingredients.
If you have eczema or dry skin, it’s important to pay attention to how your skin reacts to petroleum and dimethicone. If you find they irritate your skin or make your symptoms worse, you may want to avoid products containing these ingredients.
My Recommendations
If you are looking for a moisturiser for eczema or dry skin, I recommend trying a different product. There are many other moisturisers on the market that may be more effective.
Additional Tips
- Talk to your doctor about your eczema or dry skin. They may be able to recommend a moisturiser that is right for you.
- Apply moisturiser to your skin immediately after showering or bathing. This will help to lock in moisture.
- Use a humidifier in your home, especially during the winter months. This will help add moisture to the air and your skin.
This has been my experience with Cerave Moisturising Cream. Your experience may vary and if you have tried this moisturiser, I would love to know your thoughts.
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