FAQs
Q1. What does Petrolatum in CeraVe Moisturizing Cream do, and is it appropriate for Indian skin?
A1. Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) is one of the most effective occlusive agents known to dermatology — it forms a semi-permeable physical barrier on the skin surface that dramatically reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) without penetrating the skin. In CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Petrolatum works alongside three ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid to both lock in moisture (occlusion) and actively replenish the skin's lipid barrier. Despite the perception that petrolatum is heavy, at the concentrations used in this cream it is non-comedogenic. In India's dry winters, air-conditioned environments, and for skin compromised by eczema or harsh prescription actives, this combination is particularly effective.
Q2. How does CeraVe Moisturizing Cream restore the skin barrier?
A2. Barrier restoration requires three components to be present together: ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream provides all three — Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP (three of the five ceramide types in skin), Cholesterol, and fatty acid components from Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Cetearyl Alcohol. These ingredients, delivered via CeraVe's MVE (Multi-Vesicular Emulsion) technology, are released slowly throughout the day to gradually rebuild the lipid bilayer structure that conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and over-exfoliation deplete.
Q3. Can CeraVe Moisturizing Cream be used on both face and body?
A3. Yes — it is formulated for face and body application. On the face, it works best for those with dry to very dry skin types, as the thicker consistency can feel heavy for oily or combination skin. On the body, it excels on extra-dry areas such as hands, feet, elbows, knees, and shin skin — areas that tend to lose moisture rapidly, particularly in air-conditioned environments or after frequent handwashing.
Q4. Is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream suitable for eczema and atopic dermatitis?
A4. Yes — it is one of the most commonly recommended emollients for eczema and atopic dermatitis in dermatological practice, endorsed by the National Eczema Association (NEA). The ceramide-replenishing formula directly addresses the barrier deficiency that is the underlying structural cause of eczema. It is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and free of common contact allergens, reducing the risk of sensitisation that many rich creams cause in reactive skin.
Q5. Does CeraVe Moisturizing Cream work under makeup?
A5. It can be used under makeup for dry skin types, but the rich, occlusive texture means it needs 10–15 minutes to fully absorb before applying foundation. For daily makeup use in the Indian climate, the lighter CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion is a more practical choice under makeup; reserve the Moisturizing Cream for evening use or as an intensive overnight treatment.