CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream 177ml – Salicylic Acid & Ceramide Cream for Rough, Bumpy & Keratosis Pilaris Skin

CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream combines salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid keratolytic) with ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) and hyaluronic acid — developed with dermatologists to gently exfoliate and smooth rough, bumpy, and flaky skin while simultaneously restoring the skin barrier. Particularly effective for keratosis pilaris (KP — the small rough bumps on the upper arms, thighs, and cheeks), rough dry legs, elbows, knees, and body skin requiring both exfoliation and barrier repair. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free. 177ml.

• Salicylic acid — keratolytic to dissolve rough, bumpy skin build-up
• Ceramides 1, 3, 6-II — restores the skin's protective lipid barrier
• Hyaluronic acid — provides lasting hydration
• MVE technology — controlled 24-hour moisturiser release
• Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic — suitable for sensitive skin

Frequently Asked Questions

What is salicylic acid and how does it smooth rough skin?

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble — allowing it to penetrate into skin pores and the intercellular matrix of the outer skin layers. It works as a keratolytic: it loosens and dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells (corneodesmosomes), allowing them to shed more easily. This reduces the build-up of thick, rough skin and bumps, smoothing the skin surface. Unlike physical scrubs, salicylic acid's chemical exfoliation is gentle and consistent with barrier-friendly ingredients.

Is CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream good for keratosis pilaris (KP)?

Yes — SA cream is one of the most recommended products for keratosis pilaris. KP is caused by plugs of dead skin cells blocking hair follicles, creating the characteristic small rough bumps (usually on upper arms, thighs, cheeks). Salicylic acid dissolves these keratin plugs and loosens the build-up, while ceramides repair the skin barrier disrupted by KP. Consistent daily use typically produces significant improvement in texture and smoothness within 4–8 weeks.

How is CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream different from the CeraVe Moisturising Cream?

The Moisturising Cream (without SA) is a pure moisturiser for hydration and barrier repair — appropriate for all skin types including sensitive eczema skin. The SA Smoothing Cream adds salicylic acid for active exfoliation — making it specifically appropriate for rough, bumpy, or flaky skin conditions requiring both exfoliation and hydration. Do not use the SA cream on eczema-active skin or broken skin — use the standard Moisturising Cream instead.

Can I use CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream on my face?

The SA Smoothing Cream is primarily formulated for body use. While it can be used on the face for KP or rough facial skin, many people find the concentration of salicylic acid can be slightly drying for daily facial use. CeraVe offers specific facial SA products formulated at appropriate concentrations for facial skin. Use cautiously on the face and avoid the eye area.

How often should I use CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream?

Apply once or twice daily to affected areas after cleansing. For KP, consistent daily application is key — results build over weeks. Once skin is smooth, reducing to once daily or a few times per week maintains the improvement. As with all exfoliating acids, apply SPF on treated body areas during sun exposure — SA makes skin more photosensitive.