The trusted skincare brand CeraVe has expanded its affordable anti-ageing range with two new products launched in the UK. As a beauty journalist with over a decade of experience, I put the skin renewing retinol serum and the skin renewing peptide cream through their paces over several weeks to see if they live up to their claims of smoothing fine lines and boosting radiance.
Putting The New CeraVe Launches To The Test
As a 41-year-old with dehydrated, sensitive skin, I was keen to see how these budget-friendly additions would perform. CeraVe, founded by dermatologists and renowned for incorporating three essential ceramides into every product, promises to support the skin's barrier. I tested both products for three weeks, assessing their application, ingredient efficacy, and the immediate and longer-term results on my skin.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Peptide Cream: A Smoothing Balm
Priced at £29 for 48ml, this cream is formulated with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and CeraVe's signature ceramides. Consultant dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite explains that topical peptides can act as cellular messengers, signalling the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and keratin.
The cream has a thick, balm-like consistency that feels lavish. Initially, I found it a bit heavy for my skin, but using it more sparingly solved this. It creates a non-greasy, smoothing layer that temporarily improves the look of fine lines, much like a primer. It offers a matte finish rather than a dewy glow, making it an excellent base and a nourishing treatment for dry winter patches. My skin felt consistently softened and supple throughout the day.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum: A Gentle Option
Also costing £29 for a 30ml bottle, this serum combines encapsulated retinol with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and the three essential ceramides. The encapsulation is designed to release the retinol slowly, minimising potential irritation, making it a good option for sensitive skin.
The serum has a light, almost runny texture that absorbs quickly. I felt a slight tingle upon application, but it faded quickly. While retinol is a long-term ingredient that can take up to three months to show effects on fine lines, I noticed an immediate brightening and freshening effect on my complexion. As with all retinols, it is crucial to follow with SPF during the day.
The Final Verdict On CeraVe's Latest Launches
After weeks of testing, I found this duo effectively delivers a look and feel of softened, radiant skin. The peptide cream is a standout winter moisturiser that provides instant smoothing and lasting nourishment. The retinol serum offers a gentle introduction to the ingredient with noticeable brightening from the first use.
While I did not see a dramatic reduction in existing fine lines from the serum within the three-week test period—which is typical for retinol—the overall plumping and radiance benefits are impressive for the price point. Both products offer significant value, reinforcing CeraVe's reputation for delivering dermatologist-approved results without a luxury price tag.
