The CeraVe line of moisturizers offers a range of products for all skin types and needs. You can apply the AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion in the morning, while the PM version at night. Both provide 24-hour hydration and help protect against moisture loss due to environmental factors such as wind or low humidity.
They balance the skin’s natural barrier with a gentle formula that is non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. This review will compare the two products and provide an overall recommendation for which one would work best for your skin type. Read on to find out more!
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
The AM version of the moisturizer is ideal for normal, combination, or oily skin types that are not prone to breakouts. It contains an ingredient called dimethicone, which creates a protective barrier on top of the skin’s surface. That prevents moisture loss and has been clinically proven to maintain hydration levels for up to 24 hours.
Pros of CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
1. Clinically Proven to Maintain Hydration For 24 Hours
The CeraVe AM moisturizing lotion contains dimethicone, protecting the skin’s barrier and preventing moisture loss. In a study published in The British Journal of Dermatology, it was found that this product maintained healthy levels of hydration and prevented water from evaporating for up to 24 hours after application.
These findings show that the product effectively maintains hydration levels throughout the day, helping to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy even when you’re not applying it directly before bedtime.
2. Oil-Free, Non-comedogenic, and Fragrance-Free
The CeraVe AM facial moisturizing lotion contains no oils or fragrances that can irritate your skin. It’s also suitable for acne-prone skin as it is non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores.
3. Suitable for A Range of Skin Types
The CeraVe AM lotion is suitable for those with normal, combination, or oily skin. Those who have dryer complexions may want to use the PM moisturizing lotion instead as it contains hyaluronic acid, which can add more hydration when necessary. Those looking for a lighter moisturizer can try the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, which is also ideal for those with oily skin.
Cons of CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
No SPF protection
The CeraVe AM moisturizing lotion does not contain an SPF, so it’s essential to apply it in the morning before applying sunscreen. That is true if you have lighter skin tones, as sun damage can cause hyperpigmentation and dark spots on your complexion. Those with darker skin may be able to get away with using this product at night as well, but it’s still important to apply SPF every day under your makeup.
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
The CeraVe PM facial moisturizer is ideal for use at night, so it’s thicker than the AM version. It contains niacinamide which can help improve skin texture and tone by removing dead cells from the surface.
It also contains ceramides which have been shown to help restore a healthy moisture barrier and strengthen the skin’s natural defense system against environmental aggressors such as pollution, dirt, or harsh winds.
Many users know the CeraVe line for its gentle formula that doesn’t irritate even sensitive skin types. Both of these products are fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and compatible with any other skincare product.
Pros of CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
1. Hydrates Skin Overnight
The CeraVe PM moisturizer is effective at hydrating your face when applied before bedtime. It can restore hydration levels in the skin, reduce flakiness and maintain a healthy moisture barrier through the night. You’ll wake up to softer, smoother-looking skin that feels more comfortable throughout the day.
2. Suitable for A Range of Skin Types
Both the CeraVe AM and PM facial moisturizers are suitable for normal, combination, or oily skin. Those with dryer complexions may want to try the other version instead, as both formulas contain hyaluronic acid, which can add more hydration when necessary. The lighter formula in this line is also suitable for those with oily skin.
3. Budget-Friendly
The CeraVe line of moisturizers works out to be much less expensive than other department store brands. Quality ingredients are used in these products, which means you won’t have to pay a fortune for quality skincare. These lotions can also last up to 72 hours, so they’ll go far even with continuous use throughout the day.
4. Helps Treat Acne
The CeraVe line of moisturizers can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin. Some people have found that using these products has helped reduce the appearance of existing breakouts and prevent future flare-ups. These facial lotions are also non-comedogenic, which means they won’t clog pores or cause blackheads.
Cons of CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
1. Requires Face Washing to Remove
Unlike the AM moisturizing lotion, the CeraVe PM facial lotion requires you to wash your face before applying it. That can be time-consuming and inconvenient for those already busy in the morning with other tasks like getting ready for work or school.
It’s important not to leave the product on overnight as it contains a higher concentration of active ingredients, making it harsh for the skin if left on overnight.
CeraVe AM vs. PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion Review
Both the CeraVe facial moisturizers are ideal for daily use, though you can also apply them as needed throughout the day to keep your face feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed. Apply a pea-sized amount onto clean skin after cleansing for best results.
Takeaway
Both formulas provide 24-hour hydration to use every day, but you don’t need both unless your skin type changes over time. The PM version is thicker and contains a higher concentration of niacinamide and ceramides, so it’s better suited for those with dry or normal skin types concerned about fine lines. The AM version is lighter in consistency but still offers the same benefits during your morning routine, so choose whichever formula you think will be helpful according to your unique needs.
