Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer

Gel moisturizers are a type of facial moisturizer. These lightweight, water-based products are easy to apply and provide a versatile option for many skin types. CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel is one example of a gel moisturizer. It’s developed with dermatologists to feel weightless on your skin and features a refreshing, oil-free formula that delivers long-lasting hydration without weighing your skin down.

The texture of gel moisturizers sets them apart; they’re known for being among the most lightweight moisturizer options available. Whereas many creams have a white color, gel moisturizers are usually transparent, with a thin, semi-liquid consistency. In terms of ingredients, gels tend to feature more lightweight moisturizing ingredients (like hyaluronic acid) over the richer, more intensely-moisturizing ingredients found in many creams and lotions (like petrolatum or shea butter).

All skin types can use CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel. However, because of their lightweight texture, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends gel moisturizers as an ideal choice for oily skin, a skin type that over-produces sebum (oil).¹ A gel moisturizer for oily skin can help keep your skin hydrated and refreshed, while minimizing excess shine. These products also tend to be oil-free and non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog your pores). This can make gel moisturizers a good choice during the hot, humid summer months when skin tends to produce more sebum.

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin, normal skin, dry skin, and sensitive skin. Our gel formula, with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, dimethicone, and our three essential ceramides, can help support the needs of dry skin. Plus, our Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer includes MVE Delivery Technology, which continually releases moisturizing ingredients for long-lasting hydration. For help choosing the best skincare products for dry, flaky skin, consult a board-certified dermatologist.

Although gel moisturizers and serums can sometimes have a similar appearance and texture, they are two different skincare products. CeraVe gel moisturizers hydrate the skin, seal in moisture, and help maintain your skin barrier. Facial serums, on the other hand, are targeted treatments that should be applied before moisturizer.

Whereas serums may be considered an optional skincare step, moisturizers are an essential part of any skincare regimen. Serums are designed to help target specific skin concerns, with highly-concentrated formulas that may help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, post-acne marks, and uneven skin tone, just to name a few. If you’re looking to add a facial serum to your routine, one great option to consider is CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This refreshing gel-cream serum helps provide instantly smoother, softer skin for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Apply CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel to clean skin after your preferred CeraVe face wash and toner (and, optionally, face serum). Apply a generous amount to your face and neck, gently gliding it over all areas of your face (avoiding the eye area). Once the product is fully absorbed, continue with the rest of your CeraVe skincare routine.

In the morning, it’s important to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen after moisturizing—this should be the last step in your routine. We recommend choosing a sunscreen with SPF 30 and three essential ceramides, such as CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen. This ultra-lightweight hybrid sunscreen features mineral and physical sun filters to help absorb and reflect the sun’s damaging rays. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

At night, CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel is the last step in your basic skincare routine. For dry skin in need of extra moisture support, you can also try slugging as a bonus skincare step. Slugging is done by applying an occlusive ointment, such as CeraVe Healing Ointment, to your face at night. This can help seal in moisture and help prevent your skin from drying out overnight. When in doubt, a board-certified dermatologist can help you build the optimal routine to support your skin’s unique needs.

1. ”How to Pick the Right Moisturizer for Your Skin.” American Academy of Dermatology Association, 2023.