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This night cream is so moisturizing, it feels like a luxury — but it's only $14

I often reach for it in the morning, too!
Cecile Lavabre / Getty Images

Night creams have always been unappealing to me.

I detest putting heavy moisturizers on my skin, so smearing a thick lotion all over my face is the last thing I want to do before heading to bed. My skin is also pretty sensitive (it breaks out if you just look at it the wrong way), so finding gentle moisturizers is also a bit of a challenge.

Unfortunately, as I get older, incorporating a night cream into my routine has become more and more necessary. The cold winter weather of the past few months has taken a toll on my skin, and I can still feel its drying effects as we transition into spring. When it came time to finally pick one up, I decided to look into CeraVe since I knew the brand had a pretty large following.

The PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion immediately caught my eye due to the "ultra lightweight" label on the packaging — and it has completely changed my skin care routine.

CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizer Lotion

The "ultra lightweight" label is definitely accurate — the oil-free formula sinks in almost instantly. Thankfully, the light texture doesn't come at the expense of moisture. My skin immediately feels smooth once it's applied, and the flakiness I typically deal with in the winter has yet to rear its ugly head this year. In fact, my skin actually seems smoother and brighter than it has in a while, so much so that others have commented on it!

The brand touts niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3) and ceramides as key ingredients, which are both meant to strengthen and replenish the skin's moisture barrier. According to CeraVe, niacinamide can also provide a more radiant appearance thanks to its antioxidant properties.

The brand also says the formula includes hyaluronic acid, which can help maintain your skin's moisture balance while leaving behind a smooth texture and glowy appearance.

Though it's branded as a nighttime moisturizer, I still find myself reaching for it in the morning when I want to take a break from my beloved anti-aging water cream (which is dreamy and velvety smooth, but a little too pricey for me to justify using every day). Its fast-absorbing formula is perfect for busy mornings when I don't have time to wait for my moisturizer to sink in.

If you'd rather keep your day and night routine products separate, CeraVe also offers daily moisturizers — one for all skin types and another for normal-to-oily skin.

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

At under $20 at most retailers, this is one affordable staple that feels way more expensive than its drugstore price tag.

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