This post will compare the popular Cerave moisturizing cream vs. its counterpart, S.A. Smoothing Cream.
Cerave has become increasingly popular these days, no thanks to TikTok and Hyram.
In the past few weeks, I’ve been to various retail outlets to search for the S.A. Smoothing Cleanser, which has been sold out every single time!
I just gave up and decided to buy online. Even at that, I’ve had to wait several days for delivery.
Why exactly is Cerave popping at the moment, you might be wondering? It’s simple.
The brand is affordable, highly effective and fragrance-free.
This means that it is cheap for a drugstore brand, and it works.
Also, the products have been formulated to work across all skin types.
Whether you’re dealing with acne or dryness, there is a Cerave product for you.
In today’s post, I will be reviewing two of the popular moisturisers which I currently use for various purposes.
I’ll compare the products and help you make an informed decision before purchasing.
My criteria for reviewing them will be based on the following
- Ingredient List
- Texture/Ease of Absorption
- How I Use It
- Availability, Price & Size
Fun Fact: Did you know that Cerave has eight moisturizers in total? Yup! Bet you didn’t know that!
Disclosure: If you’re new here, my skin type is dry/dehydrated and as such will be reviewing these products based on how they worked for my dry skin.
Review: Cerave Moisturizing Cream
I bought this a while ago while looking for an affordable moisturiser to include in my PM routine.
This was around last year, way before the TikTok/Hyram revolution.
I used it consistently until I switched to sleeping masks and tossed it away.
While it did its job, it was basic but creamy enough for my PM routine.
Ingredient List
The key ingredients are Glycerin, Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid, which are excellent for hydrating and moisturising the skin.
These are the key things that contribute to the effectiveness of the product.
Of course, it is fragrance-free, meaning it is non-irritating and can be used by all skin types.
But based on the product description, this product has been formulated particularly for dry skin.
Other skin types might find it too oily and might prefer the moisturising lotion.
Other than that, the ingredient list is pretty clean.
Texture/Ease of Absorption
The difference between a lotion and a cream is that the latter is heavier.
Just as the name implies, the Cerave moisturising cream is a creamy, non-greasy formula which doesn’t feel heavy but absorbs fast into the skin.
Of course, depending on what you’re going for, you can be generous with your application.
Again, this will work well for regular or occasional bouts of dryness.
How I Use It:
This product works perfectly for me for my AM Routine.
I typically layer multiple hydrating products before sealing them up with a moisturizer.
This product nicely locks in all the moisture from my essences and serums and keeps my skin plump and moisturised.
Availability, Price & Size
The Cerave Moisturizing Cream comes in four sizes, so you have different options based on your budget.
It’s also readily available, although it sells out fast in retail stores.
Your best bet is to get it online. For a drugstore brand, the prices compared to the sizes are actually fair.
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Review: Cerave SA Smoothing Cream
I recently started to focus more on my body skincare because I felt that I had my facial skincare on lockdown.
The first order of business was to find an exfoliating body moisturizer that contains AHA & BHA to treat my Keratosis Pilaris, aka Strawberry/Chicken Skin.
After researching, I discovered the Cerave SA Smoothing Cream and tried it.
I bought my first bottle at CDG Airport in Paris and used it for a while.
A month ago, I bought a jar and decided to use it even more consistently.
Ingredient List
Now, compared to the Cerave Moisturizing Cream, the SA Smoothing Cream is packed!
It contains hydrating ingredients such as Urea, Glycerin, Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid.
It also contains exfoliating ingredients such as Salicylic and Lactic Acid.
Can you see how packed it is?
Once I studied the ingredient list, I couldn’t wait to purchase and start using it again.
Texture/Ease of Absorption
As a result of its formulation, it’s slightly heavier than the moisturising cream.
But that doesn’t stop my dry skin from absorbing it all.
It goes in nicely and doesn’t leave a greasy finish.
Despite being a cream, it also doesn’t feel heavy at all. I have no problems whatsoever with the texture.
How I Use It:
I specifically bought this for my body. But according to Cerave, it can also be used on your face.
I have enough acids in my facial skincare routine; I don’t need to add more.
The SA smoothing cream has become my go-to body moisturizer.
Depending on how long you have had your chicken skin, it is vital to remember that you will not be getting overnight results.
You need to use it consistently with the SA Cleanser.
I’m building a body skincare routine, so look out for my post.
So far, unlike other moisturisers, it is rich creamy and doesn’t leave my skin ashy after about six hours.
Depending on what products I layer on my body, my skin can be moisturised for over 12 hours.
Availability, Price & Size
Just like the rest of the Cerave products, this also flies off the shelves quickly.
So, you’re better off buying online as well. If you want to test it, start with the 177ml bottle.
If you’re anything like me and you fall in love with the product, you can then settle for a 340g tub.
Conclusion
As you can see, Cerave is a fantastic brand that is currently at the forefront of a skincare revolution.
Like The Ordinary, Cerave has shown that skincare can be effective and affordable.
I’m currently on the hunt for the Cerave SA Cleanser, and I will share my review once I’m done with it.
Overall, these moisturisers are excellent for dry skin and other skin types.
Which Cerave moisturizer do you currently use?
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