Smoother skin, explained. The CeraVe SA Cream for Rough & Bumpy Skin is the body cream developed with dermatologists to address the specific challenge of persistently rough, bumpy, and dry skin texture — the type of skin roughness that standard body lotions moisturise without improving. Whether the concern is rough, scaly skin on the legs, bumpy skin on the upper arms and thighs, or generalised dry, uneven skin texture on the body, the SA Cream uses a clinically grounded combination of chemical exfoliants, barrier-restoring ceramides, and CeraVe's patented MVE hydration technology to improve skin texture from the surface down. Developed by dermatologists, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. Available in the large 16oz (453g) jar.
Salicylic acid (SA) is the beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliant that gives this cream its name and its primary skin-smoothing mechanism. Unlike physical exfoliants (scrubs, loofahs) that remove dead cells by abrasion, salicylic acid is a chemical exfoliant that dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells to the surface, allowing them to shed naturally rather than accumulating as the rough, flaky layer responsible for the bumpy skin texture that affects the upper arms, thighs, and other body areas. Salicylic acid also softens keratin — the structural protein in skin cells — which makes it particularly effective for areas where excess keratin buildup creates persistent roughness. The formula pairs salicylic acid with lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that works alongside the BHA to promote the skin's natural exfoliation process from the surface, renewing the skin's texture over time.
Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol) enriches the formula — the same form of Vitamin D that the skin naturally synthesises from sun exposure. The three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) in this formula are the same ceramides found naturally in healthy skin, where they make up approximately 50% of the skin barrier lipids that prevent moisture from escaping and environmental irritants from penetrating. When the skin barrier is compromised — as it often is with rough, dry skin — ceramide content is depleted. Restoring it with ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II is the approach that dermatologists recommend for maintaining long-term skin barrier health rather than simply moisturising the surface.
Hyaluronic acid draws moisture to the skin's surface and helps retain it. Niacinamide helps calm the skin and supports barrier function. CeraVe's patented MVE (MultiVesicular Emulsion) Technology is the delivery system that ensures moisturising ingredients are released slowly and continuously over time rather than all at once — the mechanism that makes the hydration effect last for 24 hours after application rather than dissipating within hours as simpler moisturisers do.
How to use: apply liberally to rough or dry areas of the body as often as needed, or as directed by a physician. For external use only. Sunburn alert: this product contains an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA — lactic acid) that may increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun and the possibility of sunburn. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes.
16oz (453g). Non-comedogenic. Fragrance-free. Hypoallergenic. Dye-free. Non-irritating. Unisex.
