Description

CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment Review

How To Use

Every evening, I use this exfoliating treatment as the second step in my skincare routine, right after thoroughly cleansing my face. I squeeze a small amount onto my fingertips and gently massage it onto my skin in upward circular motions, taking care to avoid the delicate eye area. It absorbs quickly, which is a lifesaver for those rushed moments before bedtime. To seal it all in, I follow up with a hydrating night cream. On nights I use this, I make sure to apply sunscreen diligently the next morning, as the active ingredients can make skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Ingredients & Formula

The formulation is where this product really shines. It contains a 5% AHA blend, with glycolic acid and lactic acid as the star exfoliants. These work to gently slough off dead skin cells, promoting smoother and brighter skin. Ceramides are another key component, helping to restore the skin’s natural barrier—something I deeply appreciate during colder months when my skin tends to feel stripped. Licorice root extract adds a brightening touch, while hyaluronic acid ensures hydration isn’t compromised. The absence of parabens and fragrances makes it suitable for sensitive skin, though I did notice a slightly medical scent from the raw ingredients.

Effectiveness

I’ve been using the CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment for a few weeks now, and I can genuinely say my skin feels smoother than ever. The fine lines around my eyes have softened, and the stubborn dark spots on my cheeks are gradually fading. It’s not an overnight miracle worker, but with consistent use, the results are noticeable. I tested it on my husband once, and even his tough, neglected skin felt softer the next morning!

Skin Type Compatibility

I have combination skin that’s prone to dryness in certain areas. This treatment works beautifully on my skin, and I’ve had no irritation, which is impressive given my sensitivity to some exfoliants. My coworker with acne-prone skin also tried it and reported no breakouts, which speaks volumes about its non-comedogenic formula. However, if you have extremely dry or compromised skin, I’d recommend starting with a patch test, as the AHAs might feel a little intense.

Absorption & Texture

The lightweight gel texture is something I adore—it’s not too runny, but not sticky either. It glides on effortlessly and absorbs in seconds, leaving no greasy residue behind. On some nights, I layer it under a heavier cream for extra nourishment, and it doesn’t pill or interfere with other products. The quick absorption is especially helpful when I’m too tired to wait before heading to bed.

Fragrance & Sensitivity

This product is fragrance-free, which is a huge win for anyone with sensitivity to artificial scents. However, I did notice a faint chemical smell, likely from the active ingredients like glycolic acid and lactic acid. It’s not unpleasant, but if you’re sensitive to even natural odors, it’s something to keep in mind. On the bright side, it hasn’t caused any redness or tingling for me, which is a common issue I face with other exfoliants.

Packaging & Application

The packaging is functional yet simple, which aligns with CeraVe’s dermatology-first approach. The pump dispenser ensures I get just the right amount of product without any waste, and it’s hygienic too. However, the bottle is quite light, making me wonder how much product is actually inside. One gripe I had was with the external packaging—it arrived slightly damaged, and I’ve read similar complaints about shipping issues.

Highlights

• Hydrating yet effective exfoliation suitable for most skin types.
• Contains a well-balanced blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid.
• Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Critiques

• Slightly chemical scent, which might bother those with odor sensitivities.
• External packaging could be sturdier to prevent damage during shipping.
• Takes weeks of consistent use to see significant results on dark spots and fine lines.

Industry Competitors

I’ve tried similar exfoliating treatments from brands like The Ordinary and Paula’s Choice. Compared to The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, this product feels gentler on my skin and doesn’t leave it parched. Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant is another competitor, but while it’s excellent for tackling clogged pores, it lacks the hydrating ceramides and AHAs found here. CeraVe’s treatment strikes a nice balance between effective exfoliation and hydration, making it a solid mid-range option.

Affordable Quality

Given all its features, I think this exfoliating treatment offers excellent value for its price. It competes well against pricier options like Sunday Riley’s Good Genes, which also uses lactic acid but comes at a much higher cost. For someone looking for an effective exfoliant without breaking the bank, this is a strong contender. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the results it delivers make it worth every penny.

Additional information