MissLJBeauty

I bought CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment after going back on tretinoin following a short break, when my skin barrier was very clearly compromised. It’s like I completely forgot to start back gently. My face was dry and patchy, my lips were cracked from windburn, my hands were sore from cold winter walks, and I even had dry patches on my legs thanks to mountain biking. Add in skiing and time spent outdoors in harsh weather, and my skin was dealing with full-on skin barrier damage.

This wasn’t a fun skincare purchase or something I picked up out of curiosity.
It was very much an emergency situation.

I needed something that would stop the moisture loss, calm everything down, and let my skin recover without adding actives or anything that could make irritation worse.

Although it’s marketed as a multi-use repair ointment, I’ve used this on my face, lips and hands when my skin barrier was damaged.  I see this as a true multi-use product, but I use it very differently depending on the area and how damaged my skin actually is.

Quick Take

This is a thick, sticky, medical-style barrier repair ointment that genuinely works when your skin barrier is damaged I don’t enjoy wearing it, I don’t find it luxurious, and I wouldn’t use it every day,  but when my skin is struggling, the results make the texture worth it.

My Mini Review

This is one of those products I don’t enjoy using, but I’m always glad I have it in the cupboard. The texture is thick, sticky and very much on the medical side rather than something that feels nice to apply, and it’s definitely not a daytime product. But when my skin barrier is damaged, it does exactly what I need it to do.

I mainly reach for this when I’ve been a bit too enthusiastic with tretinoin, or when cold weather, wind and being outdoors have left my skin sore, tight or flaky. Used for a few nights at a time, it helps everything calm down quickly and feel comfortable again. For me, this is very much an emergency skin repair product rather than part of my everyday skincare routine.

What Is CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment?

CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment is an occlusive repair balm designed to protect the skin barrier while it heals. It’s made by CeraVe, a brand best known for dermatologist-developed formulas that focus on barrier health rather than trends or hype.

This doesn’t feel like a moisturiser in the traditional sense at all. It feels much more like a treatment product. It’s the kind of thing you reach for to get your skin back on track, rather than something you apply every day because it feels nice or luxurious.

I’m not using this to treat a skin condition myself, but I do know people who swear by it for eczema-prone skin. A close friend of mine uses it during flare-ups and finds it really helps protect and calm her skin when it’s sore and compromised. I’m not making medical claims here at all, but it’s very much the type of product people with fragile or flare-prone skin tend to keep nearby.  I’m not treating eczema myself, but I understand why people dealing with flare-ups often look for products like this.

I’m also trained in skincare and facials, and I remember one of my tutors mentioning products like this during my training. Not as anything glamorous, but as the sort of barrier-repair ointment you keep in mind when skin is compromised and needs protecting rather than treating. That always stuck with me, and it’s probably why I see this as a practical skin-recovery product rather than a traditional moisturiser.

She specifically said that when it comes to lips and stubborn dry patches on the face or hands, there’s very little that repairs them quicker than a proper occlusive ointment like this. Not something you’d use all the time, but the kind of product you reach for when skin is cracked, sore or struggling to heal. That advice has stayed with me, and it lines up exactly with how I use this now.

I will say though, the scent is far more tolerable than the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream, which I’ve used and reviewed before. If you’ve ever struggled with the smell of that, this is noticeably easier to live with.

Ingredients You Should Know About

The ingredients are a big reason this works so well for me when my skin barrier is damaged. This isn’t about trendy actives or anything clever. It’s about using the right basics to protect the skin while it heals.

At the heart of the formula is petrolatum, which is what gives this that thick, ointment texture. Petrolatum creates a protective layer over the skin to stop moisture escaping. When my skin is cracked, sore or over-treated, that is exactly what I want. I’m not looking for stimulation or results overnight. I just want my skin protected so it can recover.

It also contains three essential ceramides, which are naturally found in the skin. Ceramides help support the skin barrier, and when I’m using tretinoin or my skin has been affected by cold weather and outdoor activity, that support really matters. This is one of the reasons I trust products from CeraVe when my skin is struggling.

There’s also hyaluronic acid in the formula, which helps hold onto hydration in the skin underneath that protective layer. This is why I always apply this after moisturiser rather than on bare skin. I want hydration there first, then this seals everything in and gives my skin a chance to calm down.

Ingredient-wise, I really like how simple this is. Nothing feels aggressive, nothing stings or tingles, and nothing feels like it’s doing too much. When my skin barrier is compromised, that simplicity is exactly what I want.

Texture, Finish & How It Feels on the Skin

The texture is very thick and ointment-like, similar to a medical skin protectant. It feels sticky and tacky when you apply it and leaves a noticeable greasy layer on the skin that doesn’t really sink in.

On the face, you’re always aware it’s there. It creates a sealed, glossy finish that’s great for preventing moisture loss, but it’s not elegant or particularly comfortable to wear. This is why I only use it at night or when I’m staying in, it’s completely unsuitable under makeup. Honestly, it’s not worth trying under makeup.

There is also a slight scent, which I don’t love in a product designed for compromised skin. It’s not strong, but when your barrier is damaged, even a mild scent can feel unnecessary and noticeable. It has a slightly medical smell. I can’t quite put my finger on what it reminds me of 

If you love lightweight creams or gel textures, you’ll probably hate how this feels. But if your skin is cracked, sore or compromised, that heavy, sealed-in feeling is exactly what makes it work.

Why I Use It (And When)

Where I Use It

I’ve used this all over my face, but only when my skin barrier is badly damaged. Most of the time, I use it much more selectively. I reach for it on my lips when they’re cracked from wind or cold, on my hands after winter walks, and on any stubborn dry patches that need extra help.

I’ve also used this as a foot mask, applying a generous layer to clean feet at night and putting socks on over the top. It works really well for dry heels and rough patches, especially in winter or after lots of time outdoors. I wake up with noticeably softer skin, without needing to use it every night.

I wouldn’t normally use this all over my face day to day. It’s just too heavy for that, and I get better results keeping it as a targeted or short-term treatment.

How I Use CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment

When my skin barrier is compromised or I have cracked skin, I simplify everything. I stop tretinoin and all strong actives, cleanse gently, sometimes apply a light hydrating layer underneath, then use a small amount of this as the final step at night. I’ll use it for a few nights in a row, then stop once my skin feels calm again. This is strictly a nighttime or around-the-house product for me. I’d never try to wear it during the day.

Before applying it, I usually warm it up between my fingers first. Because the texture is so thick, this makes it much easier to spread evenly without tugging at the skin.

I always use this after moisturiser, not instead of it. I apply my usual gentle moisturiser first, then use this as the final step to seal everything in. I wouldn’t apply it on bare skin on its own. It works best when there’s already some hydration underneath.

A very small amount goes a long way. Using too much just makes it feel heavier and stickier without improving the results.  I wouldn’t use this every day long term. I’ll use it for a few nights in a row as an overnight skin repair step, then stop once my skin feels calm again.

How It Performs on Damaged Skin

Despite the texture, the results are hard to argue with. This is exactly the kind of product I reach for when my skin feels over-exfoliated or irritated after tretinoin.

This isn’t a one-night miracle, but when my skin is genuinely struggling, I do notice a difference within a few nights. The first thing that improves for me is comfort. Tightness and soreness ease off, and my skin just feels calmer and less reactive.

I noticed it helped most when my lips were badly windburned and cracked. It sealed everything in and helped them heal far quicker than standard lip balms, which usually just sit on the surface and need constant reapplying.

It’s also been a real lifesaver after overdoing tretinoin. I’ll take a break from actives, use this at night for a few days, and the dryness and flakiness settle much faster than if I try to push through with lighter products. Once my skin feels normal again, I stop and go back to my usual routine.

For me, this works best as short-term support. It gives my skin the breathing space it needs to recover, rather than forcing it to do more.

What This Is Actually Best Used For

For me, CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment works best when my skin has gone past the point of “a good moisturiser” and just needs protection while it heals.

It’s ideal for treating skin barrier damage, calming tretinoin dryness, helping cracked or windburned lips, and dealing with stubborn dry patches caused by cold weather, mountain biking or skiing. It’s a short-term reset product, not a long-term routine staple.

This doesn’t replace a moisturiser. It sits on top of one and steps in when a moisturiser just isn’t enough. I’d describe this as a proper skin barrier repair ointment rather than a moisturiser.

What Skin Types This Works Best For

This works particularly well if you have dry or very dry skin, if your skin is easily irritated, or if you use tretinoin or retinoids. It’s also a really good option if you spend a lot of time outdoors in cold or windy weather, which is when my skin tends to struggle the most.

My own skin is combination. I get dry patches, blackheads, and a bit of oil in summer, so I do have to be sensible with how I use this. It’s a very heavy product, and if I overdo it or apply it to areas that are already congested, it can make breakouts worse.

That said, it’s labelled as non-comedogenic, which was important to me given my tendency towards blackheads. Used carefully and short term, I’m comfortable applying it when my skin barrier is damaged because it doesn’t actively clog my pores. I’m just mindful about where I apply it and how often.

For me, this works best as a short-term rescue product rather than something I’d use every night or all over my face long term. Used sparingly, it helps my skin recover without creating new problems.

Who This Probably Won’t Work For

If you have very oily or acne-prone skin, this is something to approach carefully. Because it seals everything in, it can trap congestion and worsen breakouts if used too often.

I also wouldn’t recommend this if you’re looking for something comfortable to wear during the day, under makeup, or as a lightweight daily moisturiser. This is not that kind of product. 

Is It Better Than Vaseline?

If you’re comparing CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment vs Vaseline, this feels more skincare-focused because of the ceramides. 

Texture-wise, it’s very similar to Vaseline, but this feels slightly more skincare-focused thanks to the added ceramides. That said, it still behaves like an ointment rather than a cream and sits on the skin in the same protective way.

Because you only need a small amount and I only use it occasionally, one tube lasts a long time.

If Vaseline already works perfectly for you, you may not need this. I personally prefer this when my skin barrier is compromised because of the added ceramides, but they serve a similar purpose. 

Pros & Cons

What I love
It repairs dry, damaged skin quickly and is incredibly reliable when my barrier is compromised. It’s brilliant for tretinoin irritation, works amazingly well on windburned lips, and is something I trust when my skin really needs help.

What I don’t love
The texture is thick, greasy and tacky, and it’s not nice to wear. You can’t use it under makeup, the slight scent isn’t ideal, and if I overuse it, it can feed breakouts.

Is It Worth Buying?

If you’re expecting a luxurious or enjoyable skincare product, probably not. 

But if you want skin barrier repair ointment that's reliable to keep on hand for skin emergencies, especially if you use tretinoin or live an active, outdoor lifestyle, then yes, it’s worth having. I don’t use it often, but when I need it, I’m very glad it’s there. It restores my skin barrier like nothing else. 

As someone who uses tretinoin long term, I see this as a safety net rather than part of my active skincare routine. It just helps to restore the skin and kick-start the healing process. 

I bought CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment in the UK from a local pharmacy, and it’s easy to find online and in-store when you need a quick skin barrier fix.

Price Per Use (Why This Actually Works Out Cheap)

One thing that’s really worth mentioning is the price per use, because it’s surprisingly good. This isn’t a product you’re reaching for every night or using generously all over your face. I only ever use it for a couple of days at a time when my skin is genuinely struggling.

Because of that, you use very little, and you don’t replace it often. I’ve had my current tube for well over a year, and there’s still plenty left. When you look at it that way, the cost spreads out massively compared to the daily moisturisers you get through every few months.

So while it might not feel exciting or luxurious, the value actually makes a lot of sense, especially for something that only comes out when your skin really needs help.

It’s also easy to pick up in the UK, which makes it an easy emergency product to replace when you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment with tretinoin?

Yes, but not on the same nights. I use this when I pause tretinoin to allow my skin barrier to recover, especially if I’ve overdone it and my skin feels sore, tight or flaky.

Can you use it every day?

You can, but I wouldn’t recommend it for most people. It’s very heavy and works best used short term. As soon as my skin feels normal again, I stop and go back to lighter products.

Is it good for lips?

Yes, especially for windburned or cracked lips. I find it works far better than standard lip balms, which often just sit on the surface and need constant reapplying.

Will it clog pores?

It’s labelled as non-comedogenic, which was important to me as someone who gets blackheads and congestion. That said, because it’s such a heavy product, overusing it or applying it to congested areas can still make breakouts worse. I use it carefully and short term.

Can you use CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment under makeup?

I wouldn’t recommend it. On my skin, it makes makeup separate and almost detach from the skin rather than sit properly. Foundation tends to slide around and break up instead of wearing evenly.

If my skin is damaged but I still need to wear makeup, I’ll use something much lighter during the day and save this for the evening instead. It works far better when it can just sit on the skin and do its job.

Can you use it around the eyes?

I have used a very small amount around the eye area when my skin has been extremely dry or sore, but I’m careful and keep it away from my actual eyes. Because it’s such a rich formula, I only do this short term and not as a regular eye product.

How much should you use?

You really don’t need much at all. I usually warm a small amount between my fingers first and then apply it where I need it. Using more doesn’t make it work better, it just makes it feel heavier and stickier.

Can you use CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment on the body?

Yes. I’ve used it on my hands, on stubborn dry patches, and as an overnight foot mask with socks on. It works really well for cracked or very dry areas, but I still see it as a treatment rather than an everyday body moisturiser.

Final Thoughts

CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment isn’t fun skincare. It’s not elegant or luxurious. But when your skin barrier is damaged and just needs help, it does the job quickly. I see this as a skin barrier repair product I keep for emergencies, rather than something I use as part of my everyday routine.

About the Author

Laura is the founder of MissLJBeauty and has been writing honest beauty and lifestyle reviews for over a decade. Her skincare content is based on real-world use, long-term testing, and personal experience with barrier repair, tretinoin use, and outdoor exposure. She focuses on how products perform when skin is genuinely compromised, not just how they’re marketed.