Which scores higher with the experts?
CeraVe Healing Ointment and Aquaphor Healing Ointment are level on the experts' verdict, both landing on a Guru Score of 88%. Healing Ointment draws on 16 independent expert reviews, Healing Ointment on 13, so the tie holds across a real review base rather than a thin one.
What do the experts say about Healing Ointment?
CeraVe Healing Ointment carries a Guru Score of 88% from 16 independent experts. This ointment earns consistent praise for being noticeably lighter in texture than Aquaphor while still delivering strong moisture-sealing power, thanks to its 46.5% petrolatum base combined with barrier-repairing ceramides and hyaluronic acid that draws water to the skin. Dermatologists and skincare experts recommend it especially for extremely dry patches, cracked heels and lips, eczema-prone skin, and anyone prone to irritation around the eyes or mouth, and it works well applied as a thin film at night to lock in other products. The lanoline-free and fragrance-free formula makes it safe even for the most sensitive skin, though those wanting something less heavy may find plain Vaseline does the job.
What do the experts say about Healing Ointment?
Aquaphor Healing Ointment carries a Guru Score of 88% from 13 independent experts. The high petrolatum content creates a strong moisture barrier that gurus consistently praise for healing chapped skin, reducing dryness, and speeding recovery on areas from lips to feet to hands. One thing to keep in mind: Aquaphor contains lanoline alcohol, which a small percentage of people are allergic to. If you're using it and your eczema or rash worsens, experts suggest switching to plain Vaseline or CeraVe Healing Ointment instead. Best applied right after bathing to lock in hydration, or spot-treated onto the driest patches. Most gurus note it can feel too greasy for daytime summer use, though many still reach for it year-round or overnight.
Which should you choose?
The experts split evenly: both sit on a Guru Score of 88%. With nothing between them on the score, the pick comes down to fit. Healing Ointment is most often recommended for dry and sensitive skin, Healing Ointment for dry and sensitive. Both are independently verified on the Guru Index, so either is a sound pick; let the use case and your budget settle it.