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Best CeraVe skincare products to try in 2024, according to a beauty editor

From undetectable sunscreen to blemish-busting cleansers, the brand’s elixirs are loved for a reason

Lucy Partington
Freelance beauty journalist
Friday 13 September 2024 10:32 EDT
The brand’s TikTok viral formulas are affordable and gentle on skin
The brand’s TikTok viral formulas are affordable and gentle on skin (CeraVe/The Independent)
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It’s been almost six years since CeraVe made its way to the UK, and since then it’s gone from strength to strength. In part, its success comes thanks to TikTok – where products often go viral – but it’s also because the gentle and effective formulas really work.

A brand known and loved by skincare experts and novices alike, not to mention beauty editors and dermatologists, it’s celebrated for its fuss-free, affordable products that are kind to skin and never fail to deliver. CeraVe focuses its efforts on the skin barrier, creating science-led products that work to strengthen and support it and deliver realistic results.

Each product in the range uses the brand’s unique blend of three essential ceramides alongside clever MVE technology which ensures slow-release of ingredients to efficiently deliver them into skin. So, whether your skin is dry, dehydrated, oily or blemish-prone – or even if it’s just in need of a little bit of TLC – there are products to suit everybody no matter your skin type or concern.

The army of CeraVe products is continually growing – and although it’s not quite as vast as the collection that’s available in the US (if you have a trip planned soon, we recommend heading to Target, CVS or Ulta to check out their offering, especially the cleansing balm), it’s still fairly sizable. Most recently, we’ve welcomed advanced repair ointment into the UK fold, and we’re hopeful there’ll be a few more new products to get excited about later in the year.

But for now, we’ve pulled together a list of our notable favourites alongside the products that will fit into just about any skincare routine.

How we tested the best CeraVe products

A selection of the best CeraVe products
A selection of the best CeraVe products (Lucy Partington)

Our tester is a beauty editor who has used CeraVe in her everyday skin routine since its UK launch, so this review is certainly one you can trust. We’ve considered value for money, size and any short or long-term results. Consider this a list of the tried and tested best of the best.

The best CeraVe products for 2024 are:

  • Best overall – CeraVe hydrating cleanser: £10, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best for retinol newbies – CeraVe resurfacing retinol treatment: £21.67, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best for oily and acne-prone skin – CeraVe blemish control face cleanser: £10.40, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best face and body moisturiser – CeraVe moisturising cream: £18, Boots.com
  • Best micellar water – CeraVe micellar cleansing water: £13, Lookfantastic.com

CeraVe hydrating cleanser

Best CeraVe products CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid for Normal to Dry Skin indybest
  • Best: CeraVe product overall
  • Product size : 236ml
  • Key ingredients : Ceramides and hyaluronic acid
  • Why we love it
    • Cult favourite
    • Suits all skin types
    • Removes makeup
    • Doesn't strip or dry skin out

A true hero of the CeraVe range, this hydrating cleanser quickly reached cult status – and for very good reason. It’s universally loved, and our tester is a huge fan of this suits-all, non-foaming gel cleanser because it works to remove makeup and cleanses quickly and easily.

It doesn’t ever strip or dry skin out, instead, it’s formulated with a blend of ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help make sure that the skin retains its much-needed moisture. Suitable for use twice a day, it’s best used in the morning and as a second cleanse each evening. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. Trust us: once you try it, you’ll never go back, we promise.

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CeraVe advanced repair ointment

Best cerave products CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment for Very Dry and Chapped Skin indybest
  • Best: For soothing and healing
  • Size: 50ml
  • Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides
  • Why we love it
    • Intensely nourishing
    • Multi-use
    • Comes in a small size good for travel
  • Take note
    • Thick formula can be greasy

Having been available in America for a few years now, CeraVe’s advanced repair ointment launched in the UK at the start of 2024, and it’s been a roaring success for the brand so far. A thick emollient-based cream, it’s been designed to target dry, chapped and cracked skin.

As you would expect from a petroleum-based formula, it verges on the thick, greasy side (although our tester has used products that are much greasier than this one), so it’s not a product you would necessarily need to apply long-term on the skin. We like that it’s suitable for use on both the face and body and that the formula works to help protect skin from trans-epidermal water loss, which, in turn, will provide long-lasting hydration.

We found it cleared up dry patches within a few days of targeted use, and our tester enjoys using it on her lips and on her cuticles to keep them nourished and hydrated.

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CeraVe resurfacing retinol treatment

Best cerave products CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Niacinamide for Blemish-Prone Skin indybest
  • Best: For retinol newbies
  • Size: 30ml
  • Key ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide, encapsulated retinol, licorice root extract
  • Why we love it
    • Gentle
    • Entry-level formula

The first (and only) CeraVe retinol available in the UK, this is everything you’d expect from the brand. A great entry-level formula that shouldn’t irritate or dry skin out, if used properly. It’s formulated with a blend of ingredients that help smooth skin’s texture and reduce the appearance of post-acne marks, while also working to minimise the look of pores and generally improving the condition of skin.

We started using this every few days before building up to every other night, and we were impressed. The pump applicator makes it easy to control the amount that’s applied, and the price point is great. Our tester would recommend this as a great place to start if you’re somebody wanting to embark on their retinol journey for the first time.

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CeraVe blemish control face cleanser

CeraVe best products CeraVe Blemish Control Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid & Niacinamide for Blemish-Prone Skin indybest
  • Best: For oily and acne-prone skin
  • Size : 236ml
  • Key ingredients : Salicylic acid, niacinamide, hectorite clay
  • Why we love it
    • Gentle on skin
    • Targets blemishes
    • Doesn’t strip skin

This cleanser, alongside the blemish control face cleanser (£15, Boots.com), is up there with our tester’s CeraVe favourites. Having previously been a die-hard CeraVe SA cleanser fan, this one quickly became our tester’s go-to thanks to the kind-to-skin formulation that really worked to target and clear up breakouts and blemishes.

Unlike other similar cleansers designed for blemish-prone skin, this one doesn’t dry out skin or strip it of moisture. Instead, the blend of ceramides, niacinamide and salicylic acid (2 per cent) gently exfoliates the skin while removing both dirt. The hectorite clay targets excess oil, minimises shine and leaves the skin feeling comfortable. Paired with the moisturiser, which can be used all over the skin or as a targeted treatment, this duo really does help reduce the size and redness in a couple of days.

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CeraVe hydrating foaming oil cleanser

Best cerave products CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser indybest
  • Best: For dry, irritated skin
  • Size : 236ml
  • Key ingredients : Ceramides, squalane, triglyceride, hyaluronic acid
  • Why we love it
    • Suitable for very dry and sensitive skin
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Gentle on skin
  • Take note
    • Thickerthan expected formula

Like the other cleansers in the CeraVe range, this one is also suitable for both the face and body. Although it does work to break down make-up, it’s not as oil-based as you would perhaps expect from a product like this, so we find that it’s best to apply it onto damp skin for it to emulsify and therefore work more effectively. However, we found it was great to use as a second cleanse, leaving our skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. It’s especially good for anybody who suffers from irritation.

We also found it a great option to use throughout the winter as a body cleanser – it’s formulated for anybody with normal to very dry skin, including those who have sensitive or atopic-prone skin. Follow it up with the brand’s moisturising cream (£16.15, Amazon.co.uk) to lock in hydration and you’re onto a winning combination that’ll give you super soft skin.

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CeraVe moisturising cream

Best cerave products CeraVe Moisturising Cream Pump indybest
  • Best: Best face and body moisturiser
  • Size : 454g
  • Key ingredients : Ceramides and hyaluronic acid
  • Why we love it
    • Generous size
    • Super hydrating
    • Absorbs quickly

Arguably the most iconic and well-loved product, CeraVe’s moisturising cream is truly the gift that keeps on giving. As well as coming in this massive pot (now complete with a super useful pump), it’s also available in smaller versions, but the product inside remains the same. Incredibly hydrating, it’s suitable for both face and body so it’s a good one for travelling with.

It’s a great choice if you’ve gone too hard on the acids and just need to pair your routine back while incorporating something to bring your skin back from the brink. Our tester likes that it absorbs quickly and feels immediately moisturising, and it’s also worth noting that it works well to hydrate and nourish chronic skin conditions like eczema (but always check with your doctor if you’re not sure about whether to use it).

  1.  £18 from Boots.com
Prices may vary
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CeraVe micellar cleansing water

Best cerave products CeraVe Micellar Cleansing Water with Niacinamide & Ceramides for All Skin Types Indybest
  • Best: Micellar water
  • Product size : 295ml
  • Key ingredients : Ceramides and niacinamide
  • Why we love it
    • Super gentle
    • Removes makeup without stinging eyes

When is a micellar water not just a micellar water? When it’s created by CeraVe, of course. Our tester has been through countless bottles of this (having first bought it during a trip to New York before it was available in the UK) and really loves it. While it is just a glorified cleansing water, it doesn’t sting eyes and removes makeup well (although we’d recommend using a proper makeup remover to ensure all traces are gone) while being super gentle – no harsh rubbing or aggressive scrubbing is required.

It’s formulated with ceramides alongside niacinamide to balance the skin, plus it’s non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, making it suitable for both acne-prone and sensitive skin. However, the one downside is that this micellar water is a bit more expensive than others available, and the bottle is smaller than most, but in true CeraVe style, you won’t be disappointed if you do give it a try.

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CeraVe SA smoothing cleanser

Best cerave products reviewed CeraVe SA smoothing cleanser Indybest
  • Best: Body cleanser
  • Product size : 473ml
  • Key ingredients : Salicylic acid
  • Why we love it
    • Ideal for spot prone and oily skin
    • Can be used on the rest of the body
    • Gentle but effective

Before the blemish control range came along, this SA cleanser was the brand’s only targeted offering for oily, spot-prone skin types, and that’s why there was initially some confusion with it. While it is suitable to use on the face, our tester mostly uses it on her body.

It’s loaded with salicylic acid, making it great for summer months when keratosis pilaris (also known as chicken skin) is in full swing, and it also helps reduce blemishes and breakouts on the body – particularly on the back. It’s gentle but effective, and despite the fact salicylic acid can be quite drying, in this formulation, it’s not, instead it cleanses skin and leaves it feeling refreshed.

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CeraVe hydrating hyaluronic acid serum

Top cerave products CeraVe hydrating hyaluronic acid serum Indybest
  • Best: CeraVe serum
  • Product size: 30ml
  • Key ingredients : Ceramides and vitamin b5
  • Why we love it
    • Great texture
    • Super super hydrating
  • Take note
    • Can be prone to pilling

It’s unusual to come across a hyaluronic serum that has more of a creamy gel texture than a watery one, but that’s exactly what this is. Not only is this thicker serum easier to apply onto dry or dehydrated skin, but it’s super lightweight and offers up to 24 hours of hydration. Thanks to the pump mechanism, it’s easy to apply and the formula means it’s easier to control and therefore you’re less likely to waste product.

Our tester likes to use it under moisturiser for a more intensive hit of moisture, or occasionally as a makeup base – however, we would say you need to be careful how many products you layer underneath or over it as it can be prone to pilling (which is when skincare almost rolls off in little balls, usually caused by an overload of product). However, this serum is ar the more expensive end of the CeraVe price spectrum, but we would say it’s still a reasonable price for a product like this.

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CeraVe facial moisturising lotion SPF50

Best cerave skincare Cerave AM Facial Moisturiser SPF50 Normal to Dry Skin 52ml Indybest
  • Best: CerVe sunscreen
  • Product size: 52ml
  • Key ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide and vitamin E
  • Why we love it
    • A big fan favourite
    • Lightweight and nourishing
    • Non-greasy

Potentially our all-time favourite CeraVe product (although saying that is like picking a favourite child for our tester), this SPF truly ticks all the boxes: it has broad-spectrum, SPF50 protection and it’s lightweight, nourishing and undetectable under makeup. It’s hydrating without being greasy or sticky, and it absorbs quickly and disappears into the skin after a few minutes, leaving a natural-looking glow in its wake.

Our tester particularly likes that the air-tight packaging means you really can use up every last drop, and for a little over £15, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better formula for a similar price. It’s one of the very best high-protection sunscreens available on the high street that’s more than suitable for everyday use all year round.

  1.  £16 from Boots.com
Prices may vary
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CeraVe skin renewing eye cream

best cerave products skin renewing eye cream indybest
  • Best: Anti-ageing eye cream
  • Size: 15ml
  • Key ingredients: Caffeine, peptides, glycerin and niacinamide
  • Why we love it
    • Thick and smoothing
    • Scent-free and sensitive skin-friendly
  • Take note
    • Will it banish fine lines all together? Probably no

CeraVe’s eye cream has a creamy, balm-like texture and smooths fine lines immediately after application. While no eye cream can remove the appearance of crow’s feet and wrinkles entirely, the product certainly felt like it was working just as well as more premium alternatives.

With caffeine to brighten, peptides to prevent the growth of further fine lines and glycerin to draw as much moisture to the skin as possible, we found it to be nourishing and comforting on the skin. It also managed to make dull areas look brighter after use and it didn’t cause any irritation on areas of sensitive skin.

Read the full CeraVe renewing eye cream review

  1.  £23 from Boots.com
Prices may vary
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The verdict: CeraVe products

There really isn’t far to go wrong with CeraVe products: each product truly delivers on its promises, and there really is something for everyone – whether you want a whole new routine or are just looking for one or two products to compliment your existing skincare line-up, CeraVe will have what you’re looking for. The cleansers tick every box, and we especially love the sunscreen and the huge size of the moisturising cream that’ll last for ages.

While the prices have crept up over the last couple of years, CeraVe still remains one of the most affordable and effective ranges on the high street, and the fact it’s trusted by almost every dermatologist that our tester has spoken to really is a testament to the brand.

Looking for gentler make-up removal? Read our roundup of the best cleansing oils that nourish the skin

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