You want to buy less chemicals and more natural products for yourself and your family, but you’re just not sure if Cerave is safe or contains toxic ingredients.
Are CeraVe Ingredients Safe?
Yes. All CeraVe products are developed with the help of dermatologists, so they contain ingredients that are known to be safe and effective.
In addition, CeraVe products are put through rigorous testing and clinical studies to ensure they’re suitable for all skin types and will not cause irritation or other adverse reactions.
Their products also undergo extensive safety testing in human volunteers at independent labs to support their safety profile.
How Does CeraVe Work?
CeraVe is the dermatologist-developed skincare brand that delivers what dermatologists and skincare experts have been seeking: products that cleanse and moisturize the skin without disrupting its natural protective barrier.
CeraVe cleansers include ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which maintain the skin’s moisture barrier, soothe dry skin, and provide long-lasting hydration.
Are CeraVe Products Organic?
CeraVe products are not organic. However, they are non-irritating and non-comedogenic. Formulated with ceramides that help restore the skin’s protective barrier.
CeraVe does more than just moisturize the skin — it’s the difference between treating symptoms and addressing the issue head-on.
While some consumers find this disappointing, it is important to note that organic ingredients aren’t necessarily better quality than non-organic ones.
Does CeraVe Cause Acne?
It’s possible that certain CeraVe products may cause acne breakouts in some people.
Non-comedogenic (which means it won’t clog your pores) moisturizers and lotions tend to be better for acne-prone skin than products that aren’t non-comedogenic
So if you have acne-prone skin, look for the word “non-comedogenic” on the label.
Is CeraVe Ok to Use During Pregnancy or While Breastfeeding?
CeraVe is safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
CeraVe products contain ceramides that moisturize and soften the skin, but they also have ingredients that help protect your skin from the sun.
That’s good news for pregnant women, who are more susceptible to dark spots and other damage caused by UV rays.
During pregnancy, it’s best to avoid retinoids, tanning beds, and petrolatum because of the potential for adverse effects.
Fortunately, CeraVe contains none of these ingredients so you can use it with confidence.
The brand also does not use any parabens or phthalates in its products.
Are CeraVe Products Hypoallergenic?
The CeraVe line of cleansers does include some hypoallergenic options, so you can stick with the brand you love.
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar has been formulated with ceramides to help maintain the skin’s protective barrier and hyaluronic acid to attract moisture to the skin.
This gentle, non-irritating formula is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic.
For a body wash option in this line, we recommend CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash.
This non-irritating formula features ceramides to help restore and maintain your skin barrier.
It also contains hyaluronic acid (just like bar soap) to attract moisture to the skin.
Does CeraVe Contain Fragrance or Preservatives?
CeraVe does not contain any fragrance or preservatives that would cause irritation or allergic reaction.
Instead, it contains humectants and ceramides (the ingredient list on the product packaging will tell you exactly which ones).
These ingredients hydrate and keep your skin healthy by locking in moisture.
Why Does CeraVe Use Mineral Oil in Their Products?
Mineral oil is used in skincare products primarily because it helps to create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface.
This barrier helps prevent moisture loss while creating an effective delivery system for other ingredients contained within the product.
It is frequently used as an emollient and moisturizer in cosmetics and personal care products.
Can I Use CeraVe Gel With My Retinoid Cream?
Yes, you can use CeraVe gel as your moisturizer for the day. However, if you are using CeraVe gel with a retinoid at night, it may be too much for your skin.
You do not want to over-moisturize when using a retinoid. When using a retinoid, you should use the lightest weight moisturizer that is effective
So if the CeraVe gel is too heavy or causes irritation, switch to a lighter weight moisturizer such as Cetaphil or Cerave cream.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects to Using CeraVe?
While the CeraVe skincare brand is generally safe for use by most people, some people have reported adverse reactions to its products.
This includes itching, burning, and redness around the area where the product was applied.
If you have sensitive skin, you may experience these effects or other side effects not listed here.
According to the Mayo Clinic, if you develop hives or other symptoms of an allergic reaction after using a new skincare product, such as CeraVe, stop using that product immediately.
Seek medical attention if you develop a rash, difficulty breathing or other uncomfortable symptoms after applying CeraVe skincare products to your skin.
What Are the Key Ingredients in CeraVe That Make It So Effective on My Skin
These ingredients are key to understanding why CeraVe is so effective.
1. MVE Technology
This is one of the main ingredients in CeraVe products that makes them stand out from all other brands.
MVE stands for MultiVesicular Emulsion and has been patented by CeraVe.
2. Ceramides
As we age, our skin loses ceramides which causes moisture loss and dryness.
Ceramides are naturally found in our body, but external factors can lower their production and cause premature aging in young people as well as older ones.
3. Niacinamide
This ingredient helps with redness, blotchiness, and itching of the skin. It also helps reduce hyperpigmentation.
4. Glycerin
This ingredient attracts moisture from outside to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.
5. Propylene Glycol:
This is another ingredient that helps lock in moisture by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It also helps reduce flakiness and scaling.
6. Hyaluronic acid
This ingredient is vital for any skincare product as it helps increase the moisture content of the skin.
It is a natural humectant that attracts water molecules to your skin and prevents it from drying out.
It also improves the elasticity of the skin.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—CeraVe products are great alternatives to traditional skincare products, but they are perfectly safe.
CeraVe moisturizers are a viable alternative to many common skincare products on the market, and they offer up a host of advantages.