CeraVe is constantly praised for being among the best skincare brands in the world. But before CeraVe had even established its reputation, Lubriderm was nearly everyone’s go-to skincare brand.
It’s gentle, lightweight, and easy on the pocket, making it a no-brainer for anyone looking for an effective cleanser and moisturizer.
But how does it hold up when compared to CeraVe? Find out in my Lubriderm vs CeraVe comparison review.
This post contains affiliate links.
Lubridern: A Brief Overview
Established in 1947, Lubriderm is a skincare brand known for its hydrating and nourishing effects.
The brand offers a range of lotions and creams that cater to all skin types, including itchy, dry, and rough skin.
Lubriderm’s skincare line is divided into three categories: daily moisturizers, advanced therapy lotions, and intense skin repair lotions.
Daily moisturizer creams are lightweight, non-greasy formulations that combine Pro-Vitamin B5 with skin-essential moisturizers for everyday hydration. It’s suitable for all skin types.
Advanced therapy lotions are specifically formulated for dry, itchy skin, featuring Pro-Ceramide, Vitamin E, and Pro-Vitamin B5.
Finally, Lubriderm skin repair lotions are designed to repair and strengthen the moisture barrier of very dry skin.
Main ingredients include Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Pro-Vitamin B5, and hydra-release technology for longer-lasting hydration.
CeraVe: A Brief Overview
Compared to Lubriderm, CeraVe is relatively new in the skincare market having been developed in 2005.
Despite that, it’s considered among the most well-known skincare brands internationally.
CeraVe’s products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II), which protect the skin barrier, and hyaluronic acid, which softens the skin.
CeraVe uses MVE (MultiVesicular Emulsion) technology to make its products more effective.
Instead of just several hours, MVE delivers hydration throughout the day and keeps the skin moisturized for longer, making it especially beneficial for people with dry or compromised skin.
CeraVe’s product line is a lot more varied than Lubriderm.
Alongside lotions and moisturizers, CeraVe also sells serums, eye creams, body cleansers, makeup removers, sunscreens, and ointments.
Lubriderm vs. CeraVe: How Do They Compare?
Here are some key comparisons between Lubriderm and CeraVe:
Moisturizer
Lubriderm’s original moisturizer is the Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion. It’s formulated for all skin types but is especially effective for those with dry and sensitive skin.
Its main ingredients are pro-ceramide, shea butter, and glycerin, which work together to restore the skin barrier for healthier-looking skin.
Meanwhile, CeraVe’s most popular moisturizer is the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion.
Like most CeraVe products, it contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid that hydrate and restore the skin’s natural barrier.
It’s suitable for normal to dry skin, but it works nicely with acne-prone skin as well. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, plus it’s fragrance-free.
Both moisturizers have a lightweight feel. They absorb pretty fast and don’t leave a shiny or oily residue behind. They spread easily and provide immediate relief for dry, itchy skin.
The CeraVe lotion feels slightly creamier and leaves a soft and slightly dewy feel, and while it takes longer to sink in than Lubriderm, it doesn’t feel all that uncomfortable.
Cleanser
Lubriderm doesn’t have a whole lot when it comes to facial cleansers. The company’s only facial cleanser is the Lubriderm Daily Moisture Body + Face Wash, which is suitable for all skin types.
It’s a good generalist pick for those looking for a no-nonsense face wash to use every day.
The problem here is that the Lubriderm cleanser doesn’t provide targeted benefits. While it leaves my skin feeling clean and refreshed, it doesn’t address my acne or dryness.
Conversely, CeraVe has multiple facial cleansers to choose from.
You have the Hydrating Facial Cleanser for normal to dry skin, Foaming Cleanser for normal to oily skin, and the Hydrating Foaming Cleanser for super dry skin.
For mild to moderate acne, you have options like the Acne Control Cleanser and the Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser.
If I were to compare the Lubriderm Daily Wash to the Hydrating Facial Cleanser, I’d prefer the latter because of its deep hydrating properties.
In my opinion, Lubriderm just doesn’t offer the same level of targeted moisture retention as CeraVe.
CeraVe’s cleansers may be more expensive than Lubriderm, but you can at least rest assured that you’re using a cleanser that works for your skin type and not a more general one.
Effectiveness For Skin Concerns
Lubriderm’s products are suitable for people looking for basic cleansing and hydration.
They’re lightweight and contain minimal ingredients, making them a good pick for those looking for something simple and effective.
For people with complex skin issues, like those with very dry, sensitive, or compromised skin, CeraVe’s gentle and targeted formula is more appropriate.
Plus, CeraVe has a range of other skincare products that specifically help with hyperpigmentation, acne, and other skin concerns in the form of serums, creams, and ointments.
So you have more options to choose from.
Texture and Feel
Lubriderm’s products are light and easily absorbed, which is great for people who don’t like heavy creams.
CeraVe has a line of light creams and moisturizers, but formulations for dry skin tend to be super thick.
For example, the CeraVe Moisturising Cream has a rich, dense consistency similar to that of a body butter.
The thick texture makes it particularly effective for super dry skin, but it can feel a little tacky for those used to lighter, fast-absorbing creams.
Price
Lubriderm’s products are generally more affordable than CeraVe’s.
Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion, for instance, costs around $12 for a 24-ounce bottle while the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion costs $18 to $20 for a 19-ounce bottle.
CeraVe’s targeted treatments are even more expensive, with some costing upwards of $25 to $30.
Final Thoughts
The choice between Lubriderm vs CeraVe depends on your skin type.
If you’re looking for a cleansing and moisturizing solution for “normal” skin – i.e. skin with no major issues like excessive dryness, sensitivity, or acne – Lubriderm is a solid, straightforward choice.
But if you have specific skin concerns, such as dryness, eczema, or acne, CeraVe is the better pick as its products are formulated to address more complex skin needs.
Do you have a favorite between Lubriderm or CeraVe? Let me know in the comments below!