CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion Review: Does the PM Version Live Up to the Hype?
If you’ve ever searched for a simple, no-nonsense moisturizer, you’ve probably come across CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion.
It’s one of those products that’s constantly recommended by dermatologists, beauty bloggers, and skincare lovers alike. But does it actually live up to the hype?
I’ve been using the PM version for about three months now, and I have a lot of thoughts.
If you’re wondering whether this moisturizer is worth adding to your routine, I’ll break it all down—how it feels, how it works on different skin types, and whether I’d repurchase it.
What Is CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion?
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is designed as a lightweight, nighttime moisturizer that hydrates while helping to repair the skin barrier.
What makes it stand out is the ingredient list:
- Ceramides – These help restore and strengthen the skin barrier. If you deal with dryness, irritation, or a damaged skin barrier (maybe from over-exfoliating), this is a huge plus.
- Hyaluronic Acid – A deeply hydrating ingredient that helps the skin retain moisture.
- Niacinamide – A soothing ingredient that helps with redness, oil control, and overall skin health.
Since it’s fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and oil-free, it’s marketed as a moisturizer that works for all skin types—including sensitive, acne-prone, and dry skin. But how does it actually perform?
First Impressions & Texture
The first thing I noticed when I got the bottle was the pump dispenser—which I love.
It’s so much easier and more hygienic than a jar, and I don’t have to worry about squeezing out too much product.
Now, let’s talk about the texture. When I first pumped it out, it looked lightweight but still creamy.
It’s definitely not a thick or heavy night cream, but it’s also not a super thin gel. It lands somewhere in between, which makes it easy to spread without feeling greasy.
When I applied it, it absorbed quickly into my skin. It didn’t leave any residue or stickiness, which is something I really appreciate in a night moisturizer.
Some creams just sit on top of the skin, making it feel like you have a layer of product, but this one actually sinks in.
How It Works on Different Skin Types
I have combination/dry skin, so hydration is always a big concern for me.
When I first started using CeraVe PM, I was a little worried that it wouldn’t be enough.
Some lightweight moisturizers disappear after an hour and leave my skin feeling tight. But surprisingly, this one kept my skin hydrated all night long without feeling heavy.
If you have oily or combination skin, this moisturizer will work well for you too. The oil-free formula doesn’t leave any shine, and it absorbs so quickly that it won’t feel greasy.
I’ve heard from friends with combination skin that it hydrates without making their T-zone extra oily.
For sensitive skin, it’s a safe bet because there’s no fragrance, alcohol, or harsh ingredients. Plus, niacinamide can actually help calm irritation.
However, some people are sensitive to niacinamide, so if you’ve had issues with it before, that’s something to consider.
Overall, it’s one of those rare moisturizers that actually works across multiple skin types without causing breakouts, clogging pores, or leaving skin feeling greasy.
Hydration & Long-Term Effects
One of the biggest things I noticed after using CeraVe PM consistently was how well it supported my skin barrier.
If you’ve ever over-exfoliated or used a harsh product that left your skin feeling tight and irritated, you know how important a good, barrier-repairing moisturizer can be.
I use the CeraVe PM Lotion after the hydrating cleanser. After a couple of weeks, my skin felt softer and smoother in the mornings. It didn’t make my skin look dewy or overly hydrated, but it locked in moisture overnight without any greasy residue.
Note: If you have super dry skin, you might need to layer it with a heavier cream in the winter (I use CeraVe moisturizing cream if I need something heavier and extra hydrating). But for most people, it’s a great balance between lightweight and hydrating.
CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion Pros
CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion Cons
CeraVe Lotion AM vs. PM: Which One Should You Get?
Since CeraVe also makes an AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, a lot of people wonder which one to buy. The biggest difference? The AM version has SPF 30.
Here’s how they compare:
CeraVe PM:
- Lightweight but hydrating.
- Absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue.
- Works for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone.
CeraVe AM:
- Contains SPF 30, so it doubles as a sunscreen.
- Can feel thicker and take longer to absorb.
- Might leave a white cast (especially on deeper skin tones).
Personally, I prefer the PM version because I like to use a separate sunscreen in the morning. The AM version is nice for convenience, but the white cast and slightly heavier feel make it less appealing for me.
If you’re choosing between the two, get the PM version if you want a lightweight, nighttime moisturizer that layers well with other products.
If you want an all-in-one moisturizer with SPF, then the AM might be a better choice—just be prepared for a bit of a white cast.
Final Verdict: Is CeraVe PM Worth It?
After using CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion for a while, I can confidently say that it’s a solid choice if you want a simple, effective, and affordable moisturizer.
It hydrates without being heavy, absorbs quickly, and actually helps strengthen the skin barrier over time.
Would I repurchase it? Absolutely.
It’s not a miracle product that will transform your skin overnight, but if you’re looking for a fragrance-free, dermatologist-approved moisturizer that works for most skin types, this is a great option.
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