Here’s a detailed overview of CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream with Salicylic Acid (177 ml):

Made in France

Overview

• Formulated by dermatologists to gently exfoliate and hydrate rough, bumpy skin, often associated with keratosis pilaris (KP) or eczema-prone areas.
• Enriched with 10% urea, salicylic acid, LHA (lipohydroxy acid), hyaluronic acid, and three essential ceramides (1, 3 & 6‑II), using MVE technology for up to 24-hour hydration.
• Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and formulated without physical exfoliants to be gentle enough for daily use on body (and face for certain skin types).

Ingredient Highlights

• Salicylic Acid: Oil‑soluble BHA that unclogs pores and exfoliates to smooth texture.
• Urea (10%) & Lactic Acid: Gentle AHAs that loosen dead skin buildup while providing hydration.
• Ceramides NP, AP, EOP: Reinforce the skin’s natural barrier and prevent moisture loss.
• Hyaluronic Acid & Niacinamide: Help attract moisture and soothe inflammation.
• Also includes emollients (e.g. shea butter, dimethicone) and barrier lipids like cholesterol to aid restoration

Benefits & Efficacy

• Rapid smoothing: Many users report improvement in KP texture within a week to a few weeks.
• Hydration + exfoliation: Combines chemical exfoliation with occlusive moisturization for long-lasting softness.
• Barrier support: Uses ceramides and MVE for sustained moisture and barrier repair.

Considerations & Possible Side Effects

• Texture & absorption: Very thick and rich—many reviewers find it difficult to spread and somewhat greasy, especially on non-damp skin.
• Face vs. body use:
• Generally recommended for body use due to the thickness and exfoliating actives.
• Some users experienced burning, redness, or whiteheads when applying to the face—could signal sensitivity, purge, or irritation.
• Initial itching or irritation: Some report transient itch or mild redness during early use—possibly due to exfoliation process; slowing frequency can help.
• Unusual anecdotal effect: A few users noted vivid dreams coinciding with use—though no causative link has been established

Real-World Feedback

Positive results:

“Used daily on arms and legs… redness has subsided significantly… skin super soft!”

Users with KP, psoriasis-prone skin, or “lizard legs” share that texture visibly improved over time.

Mixed experiences:

“It’s greasy on combination skin… I prefer the regular CeraVe Moisturizing Cream”

“Too thick for face, better for body; may feel suffocating when wearing clothes after application”