CeraVe reviews and discussion

4.5

89% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Gentle, fragrance-free formulations
  • Dermatologist-recommended reliability
  • Hydrating, barrier-supporting moisturizers
  • Effective acne-clearing cleansers
  • Occasionally heavy, filmy textures
  • Inconsistent results across skin types
  • Spf can irritate or feel oily
  • Some cleansers feel under-cleaning

CeraVe earns strong reviews as a dermatologist-recommended staple that works—especially for sensitive, dry, and acne‑prone skin—thanks to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers that layer well under makeup and visibly hydrate and calm irritation. Weaknesses surface around texture and feel (some creams heavy or filmy, occasional greasiness or insufficient moisture), hit‑or‑miss results for certain skin types, mixed experiences with SPF formulas and actives causing irritation, and concerns about cruelty‑free status and select ingredients.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

284 reviews and posts

  • this brand is magic in bottles. i am very surprised by the quality and the price point! i keep buying from them and they never disappoint. i’m new to skincare and i’m so glad I didn’t waste my money on the modern “genz” skincare ad products. this is a REAL skincare brand and company.

  • This cleanser has been a solid go-to for me. It starts off creamy, then turns into a light foam that actually feels like it’s cleaning your skin without stripping it. My face never feels tight or dry after using it, which is rare for a foaming cleanser. It removes makeup and impurities really well, and it’s gentle enough to use morning and night. I have combination skin, and this keeps things balanced without causing breakouts or irritation. It’s simple, affordable, and does exactly what I need it to do. Definitely one of those dependable products I always end up repurchasing.

  • **What works well** CeraVe is built around a dermatologist-backed formula philosophy, notably featuring three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that help restore the skin’s barrier. ([Good Housekeeping][1]) The brand also uses “MVE” (MultiVesicular Emulsion) technology for sustained release of ingredients throughout the day. ([Good Housekeeping][2]) Products tend to be fragrance-free, reasonably priced for what you get, and widely available. Many users with sensitive, dry or compromised skin report positive results, especially with cleansers and moisturisers. ([Consumer Health Digest][3]) **What doesn’t always hit the mark** However, not every user has a perfect experience. Some with oily or breakout-prone skin report that certain CeraVe moisturisers felt heavy or caused closed comedones. For example: > “It either breaks me out or dries me out.” ([Reddit][4]) > Also, while many products are well-formulated, others (especially sunscreens or hybrid combos) may have texture or finish issues for some users. Handling counterfeits is another risk — users on Reddit warn of fake bottles sold via third parties. ([Reddit][5]) **Bottom line** If you’re looking for reliable, science-leaning skincare with barrier-repair in mind, CeraVe is a solid option — especially for dry, sensitive or “reactive” skin. That said, don’t assume every product will suit *your* skin type, especially if you’re very oily, breakout-prone or needing high-end luxe results. Patch-testing is still wise.

    Received a free product from CeraVe
  • CeraVe moisturizer is definitely my go to! I have somewhat sensitive skin and prefer not to use scented moisturizers on my face, especially after acne treatment, and I always use CeraVe moisturizer - As opposed to other moisturizers it's never caused irritation for me, and generally works pretty well!

  • I honestly don’t think I’ll ever stop using the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser. It’s super gentle but still gives that really clean feeling without making my skin tight or dry. A lot of clarifying face washes can be too harsh for everyday use, but this one is perfect for daily cleansing. It keeps my skin balanced, smooth, and clear. Definitely the best everyday clarifying wash I’ve tried! I’ve also been using it for 4 years and have wavered but always come back to my tried and true!

  • I really liked it - it is very soft and leaves the skin hydrated.I just thought it takes a while to form foam, so it seems that cleaning takes longer.But overall, it's a good product, especially for those with sensitive skin.

  • Cerave is literally the best, I have allergies and super sensitive skin, and it never irritates me. No strong smell, just clean and simple. It hydrates, cleans, and leaves my skin sooo soft. I use a bunch of their products and honestly can’t live without them

    Influencer for CeraVe
  • The CeraVe moisturizer completely transformed my skin! It used to feel dry and dehydrated, but now it’s incredibly soft and healthy-looking. My confidence grew so much after seeing my skin glow again! 💖

  • ive been using ceraVe for 3 months now, it ŵas suggested by my dermatologist, so far, it hasn't been working, just making my skin irritated and flaky. i don't know if it's because i have sensitive skin.

  • Animal Testing

    I'm curious how this product is tested on animals. Its 2025. I would hope this barbaric act would have been stopped in the beauty world. It's bad enough that it's done by pharmaceutical companies. But come on people...for the sake of our moisturizer or make up?? The afterlife may be a little hotter if you're torturing living beings for the sake of some cream or mascara. Please stop using animals this way!! You're taking something helpless and innocent and destroying its life for some vain, inexcusable purpose!

  • I have gotten more compliments and questions about my skincare routine since starting to use CeraVe than when I was using any other skincare products. I think the very simple and gentle ingredients help keep my skin calm. The products are top quality and affordable as well as long-lasting. The face lotion I am currently using has lasted me for several months.

  • Honestly I am not a huge fan of the products offered by CeraVe. I have used their lotion before and it left my hands feeling greasy, did not moisturize them nearly as effectively as other lotion products I have tried, and honestly it did not have the greatest smell.

  • I love CeraVe! It's a great pricepoint and the products are really soft on my skin. I think it's a great option for skincare if you're not looking to spend much money. I love their creams and lotions.

  • Nice for a facial wash, not harsh on the skin, feels like a good cleansing and doesn’t leave a funny film on the skin after drying the skin. Nice lotion for my hands during a lot of washing hands and during cold winter months.

  • I have used several Cerave products and I enjoy the night balm the most. It’s convenient that the products are widely available. One recommended trick: purchase items at CVS using the CVS rewards coupons. Their prices are comparable to discount retailers and with a 25-40% discount (based on the promotion that week) it is possible to get their products at a very inexpensive price.

  • CeraVe is a reliable skincare brand that I trust for hydration and gentle care. Their moisturizers and cleansers are effective without irritating my sensitive skin. I love how hydrating they are, though the texture can be a little heavy at times. Overall, great value for the price!

  • While getting a facial with my girlfriend one afternoon, it was recommended that I use a facial cleanser in order to maintain my wonderful complexion, smooth skin and unclogged pores ;-) Among the vast amount of products available, I decided to use the CeraVe product line. I have to say, WELL DONE. This is a great product that has continued to offer great products while delivering great results. I am now a regular user of the facial cleanser and have used both the lotion and moisturizing cream. I would highly recommend this product if looking for cleansers to rid of acne issues or just rough and tough skin. Don't forget to utilize these facial cleansers to keep your pores clean. Dermatologist recommended. It cleanses, hydrates and keeps the skin protected.

  • THIS PRODUCT IS SINGLE HANDLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FACT THAT I HAVE NEVER BURNT MY FACE. LOVE. FOLLOW MY TIKTOK @maddiediaries to see me try this product and more products like this.

  • This was my first time using a cleansing bar soap to wash my face. I chose this bar for the kaolin clay, that helps absorb oil, and the niacinamide, that calms the skin, It lathers up nicely, it feels like it's definitely cleaning my face. It's also gentle on my skin too, which i like. This was also my first time using a cerave product, I would definitively buy products from this line in the future.

  • As someone who suffers from a super dry skin condition CeraVe is the way to go when soothing my skin. The large open mouth container is at my side during the winter season and the pump bottles I usually use for spot treating in the summer. Every dermatologist I have ever gone to always recommends using CeraVe for keeping my skin hydrated and quenched. The difference is visible on my legs from when I slack off on using it to when I am routinley applying.