Cerave Moisturizing Cream vs Pm Lotion: Which Is Best?
Are you tired of dry, irritated skin? Finding the perfect moisturizer can feel like a never-ending quest. With so many options available, it’s tough to know where to start. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head battle of two popular contenders.
We’re putting the spotlight on two of CeraVe’s most beloved products: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. Both promise to hydrate and soothe, but they cater to slightly different needs and skin types. This comparison will help you decide which is the better choice for your unique skin concerns.
Get ready to uncover the key differences in ingredients, texture, and overall performance. We’ll explore which product is best suited for daytime versus nighttime use, and who will ultimately emerge victorious in the battle of CeraVe moisturizing cream vs pm lotion. Let’s find out!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Cerave Moisturizing Cream | PM Lotion |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin | Ceramides, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Texture | Thick Cream | Lightweight Lotion |
| Skin Type | Dry to Very Dry Skin | Normal to Dry Skin |
| Hydration Level | High | Moderate |
| Application Time | Day & Night | Night |
| Fragrance | Fragrance-Free | Fragrance-Free |
| Non-Comedogenic | Yes | Yes |
| Sun Protection | No | No |
| Packaging | Jar/Pump Bottle | Pump Bottle |
| Absorbency | Slow | Fast |
| Recommended Use | Face & Body | Face |
| Niacinamide | No | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Hydration Level
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: This cream offers intense, long-lasting hydration due to its thick consistency and blend of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It’s excellent for very dry skin but may feel heavy for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
- Pm Lotion: The PM lotion provides lighter hydration compared to the cream, suitable for normal to dry skin. It contains ceramides and niacinamide, which can help with moisture retention and skin barrier repair, but it may not be sufficient for severely dry skin.
- Winner: Cream
Texture/Consistency
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: The cream has a rich, thick texture that is slow-absorbing. This contributes to its long-lasting moisturizing effects, but can feel greasy for some.
- Pm Lotion: The PM lotion has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly. It’s ideal for those who prefer a less heavy feel on their skin.
- Winner: Lotion
Key Ingredients
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: Primary ingredients include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum for intense hydration and skin barrier support. It lacks active ingredients like niacinamide or chemical exfoliants.
- Pm Lotion: Key ingredients include ceramides, niacinamide (for anti-inflammatory and skin-tone evening properties), and hyaluronic acid.
- Winner: Lotion
Target Skin Types
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: Best suited for very dry, dry, and sensitive skin types. It’s often recommended for conditions like eczema.
- Pm Lotion: Ideal for normal to dry, and potentially combination skin types. It’s also suitable for acne-prone skin due to its non-comedogenic formulation and niacinamide content.
- Winner: Cream
Presence of Active Ingredients
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: Contains primarily moisturizing ingredients. It doesn’t feature specific active ingredients like retinol or AHAs/BHAs.
- Pm Lotion: Contains niacinamide, a potent ingredient known to reduce redness, and improve skin tone/texture.
- Winner: Lotion
Suitability for Face
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: While suitable for the face, its thick texture might be too heavy for some, potentially leading to breakouts, especially for those with oily skin.
- Pm Lotion: Designed for facial use, it’s generally well-tolerated and less likely to clog pores due to its lighter formulation.
- Winner: Lotion
Suitability for Body
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: Excellent for body use, particularly for areas prone to dryness like elbows, knees, and heels. It’s often used to treat eczema on the body.
- Pm Lotion: Can be used on the body, but may not provide as intense hydration as the cream, especially for very dry areas.
- Winner: Cream
Price & Availability
- Cerave Moisturizing Cream: Widely available at drugstores, pharmacies, and online retailers. Generally, is affordable.
- Pm Lotion: Readily accessible in the same locations as the cream, and similarly priced making it very accessible.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Intense Hydration | Cerave Moisturizing Cream |
| Lightweight Formula | PM Lotion |
| Nighttime Use | PM Lotion |
| Dry Skin | Cerave Moisturizing Cream |
| Soothing Properties | PM Lotion |
What They Have in Common:
- Ceramides: Both products contain essential ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. This helps lock in moisture and protect against environmental stressors.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Both formulations include hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Fragrance-Free: Both the Moisturizing Cream and the PM Lotion are fragrance-free, making them suitable for sensitive skin types that are prone to irritation.
- Non-Comedogenic: Both products are non-comedogenic, meaning they are designed not to clog pores, reducing the risk of breakouts.
- Developed with Dermatologists: Both products were developed in conjunction with dermatologists, ensuring the formulas are effective and gentle.
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Both products are formulated to be gentle and effective for sensitive skin.
Cerave Moisturizing Cream Vs PM Lotion Buying Guide
Skin Type Compatibility
Both Cerave Moisturizing Cream and PM Lotion are formulated for various skin types, but their suitability differs slightly. Moisturizing Cream excels for dry to very dry skin due to its thick, emollient texture, effectively sealing in moisture. PM Lotion is ideal for normal to dry skin and is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin, as it’s formulated without harsh ingredients and includes ceramides to replenish the skin barrier. Consider your skin’s hydration needs and sensitivity when choosing.
Ingredient Analysis
The ingredient lists highlight key differences. Moisturizing Cream boasts a richer composition, featuring ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum for intense hydration. PM Lotion also contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid but incorporates niacinamide, an anti-inflammatory and skin-tone-evening agent. The PM Lotion’s formulation is designed to be lighter and more suitable for nighttime use. Analyzing ingredients helps you determine which product aligns with your skin’s specific requirements.
Texture and Application
Texture plays a vital role in user experience. Moisturizing Cream has a thick, creamy consistency that provides a long-lasting, protective barrier. Application may require a bit more effort to spread evenly. PM Lotion has a lighter, lotion-like texture, absorbing quickly and leaving a non-greasy finish. This makes it more suitable for daytime use or layering under makeup. The choice depends on your preference for feel and application ease.
Hydration and Moisturization Level
The intensity of hydration differs between these two products. Moisturizing Cream provides superior hydration, making it ideal for severely dry skin conditions, such as eczema. Its occlusive properties help prevent moisture loss. PM Lotion offers effective moisturization, but its lighter formulation is best for those who prefer a less heavy feel. Both products incorporate ingredients to attract and retain moisture. Consider your skin’s hydration needs and the desired level of moisturization.
Daytime vs. Nighttime Use
Consider the timing of your application. Moisturizing Cream is versatile for use at any time of day, offering long-lasting protection. However, its thickness might be less desirable under makeup. PM Lotion is designed for nighttime use, as its lighter texture and inclusion of niacinamide make it ideal for overnight skin repair and rejuvenation. Its ability to absorb quickly makes it a good option if you want to apply other products after. Choose the best product that fits your routine.
Price and Availability
Both products are generally affordable and widely available in drugstores and online retailers. The price point is similar, making cost a less significant factor in the decision. Availability is also comparable; both are readily accessible. When buying, compare prices across different retailers. Consider the size of the product and how frequently you’ll need to replenish it. This factor is unlikely to be the deciding factor as both products are similarly priced.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy cerave moisturizing cream If…
- You have very dry or cracked skin.
- You need a cream that provides intense, long-lasting hydration.
- You prefer a thicker consistency for both face and body.
- You are looking for a product that doesn’t contain Niacinamide.
Buy pm lotion If…
- You have normal to dry skin.
- You want a lightweight lotion that absorbs quickly.
- You’re looking for a night cream specifically designed for facial use.
- You want a product that contains Niacinamide to help soothe and improve skin tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Cerave Moisturizing Cream and PM Lotion?
The main difference lies in their formulation and texture. Moisturizing Cream is thicker and more emollient, designed for very dry skin. PM Lotion is lighter and incorporates niacinamide, making it suitable for normal to dry skin and ideal for night use. PM Lotion is designed to repair and improve skin tone overnight.
Which product is better for sensitive skin?
Both are gentle, but PM Lotion is often favored for sensitive skin due to its lighter texture and the inclusion of niacinamide, which can help reduce inflammation. Both are free of fragrance and other common irritants. However, individual reactions can vary, so patch testing is always recommended for very sensitive skin.
Can I use Cerave Moisturizing Cream on my face?
Yes, Cerave Moisturizing Cream can be used on the face. Its thick consistency can be beneficial for those with dry or very dry facial skin. However, some people may find it too heavy for daytime use or under makeup. Consider your skin type and preference for texture before applying it to your face.
Is Cerave PM Lotion suitable for daytime use?
While designed for nighttime, Cerave PM Lotion can be used during the day. Its lighter texture absorbs quickly, making it suitable under makeup. However, it lacks the broad-spectrum SPF found in some daytime moisturizers. Daytime use is best if the user applies sunscreen separately.
What are the key ingredients in Cerave Moisturizing Cream?
Key ingredients in Cerave Moisturizing Cream include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum. Ceramides help restore the skin’s natural barrier, hyaluronic acid attracts moisture, and petrolatum acts as an occlusive to prevent water loss. These ingredients work synergistically to provide intense hydration and protection.
Does Cerave PM Lotion help with acne?
Cerave PM Lotion contains niacinamide, which can help reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. While it’s not a direct acne treatment, it can improve skin texture and tone, potentially reducing the appearance of breakouts. It’s best used as part of a comprehensive skincare routine for acne-prone skin.
Where can I buy Cerave Moisturizing Cream and PM Lotion?
Both Cerave Moisturizing Cream and PM Lotion are widely available at drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, online retailers such as Amazon and Ulta, and at many major supermarkets. Prices are generally consistent across retailers. It’s often easy to find sales or discounts on these products.
Final Verdict
Choosing between Cerave Moisturizing Cream and PM Lotion depends on individual skin needs. Moisturizing Cream offers intense hydration, ideal for dry to very dry skin, while PM Lotion provides a lighter, niacinamide-infused formula perfect for nighttime use and sensitive skin. Consider your skin type, desired texture, and routine when making your selection. Both are excellent products, but their suitability varies based on individual needs.
Winner: Cerave PM Lotion