Foaming Facial Cleanser
Foaming Facial Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed foaming gel cleanser that transforms into a rich lather to gently remove dirt, excess oil, and makeup without disrupting your skin's protective barrier. Formulated with 3 essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for a clean that won't leave skin feeling tight or stripped.
Gel-to-Foam Technology
Dispenses as a clear gel that transforms into a rich, creamy foam when mixed with water for thorough yet gentle cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGel-to-Foam Technology
Dispenses as a clear gel that transforms into a rich, creamy foam when mixed with water for thorough yet gentle cleansing.
3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II to help restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier while cleansing.
Hyaluronic Acid
Attracts and retains moisture to help keep skin hydrated even after cleansing, preventing the tight feeling.
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 helps calm and soothe the skin while providing anti-inflammatory benefits for a balanced complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other ingredients contraindicated during pregnancy. Dermatologists recommend this cleanser for expecting mothers.
Contains Polysorbate 20, which is flagged as a potential trigger for malassezia/fungal acne in some formulations. Results may vary individually.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Won't clog pores and is safe for acne-prone skin according to manufacturer claims.
US formula contains methylparaben and propylparaben as preservatives. EU/newer formulations may be paraben-free.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramides (1, 3, 6-II) Skin-IdenticalProven
Essential lipids that make up 50% of the skin barrier. These three specific ceramides work together to restore and maintain the skin's protective layer, preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental stressors.
- Research: Studies show ceramides improve skin barrier function and hydration within 2-4 weeks of use
- Function: Fills gaps between skin cells, sealing in moisture and blocking irritants
Hyaluronic Acid HumectantProven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Helps attract and retain moisture at the skin's surface for a plump, hydrated feel even after rinsing.
- Molecular Weight: Standard molecular weight for surface hydration
- Benefit: Prevents the tight, dry feeling often associated with foaming cleansers
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) SoothingProven
A multi-functional B vitamin that calms and soothes the skin while providing anti-inflammatory benefits. Helps reduce redness and supports a healthy skin barrier.
- Research: Proven to reduce inflammation, minimize pore appearance, and regulate sebum production
- Compatibility: Works well with ceramides and hyaluronic acid for synergistic benefits
Phytosphingosine Anti-AcnePromising
A naturally occurring lipid in skin with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Part of the skin's natural defense system against acne-causing bacteria.
- Research: 2007 study showed effectiveness against P. acnes bacteria
- Benefit: Supports skin barrier while providing gentle antibacterial action
23 ingredients
Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Niacinamide, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Hyaluronic Acid, Cholesterol, Sodium Chloride, Phytosphingosine, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Dicalcium Phosphate Dihydrate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in both AM and PM routines. Can also be used as a second cleanse after oil cleanser at night.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face to prepare the skin. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and cause irritation.
Dispense & Lather
Pump 1-2 pumps of cleanser onto fingertips or a damp cleansing cloth. Add a little water and work into a foamy lather.
Massage Gently
Apply to face in gentle, circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on oily areas like T-zone but don't over-scrub.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all cleanser is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel - don't rub. Follow with your routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin
- You want a gentle cleanser that removes excess oil
- You need a pregnancy-safe cleanser option
- You prefer fragrance-free, no-fuss products
- You want to maintain your skin barrier while cleansing
- You're on a budget but want dermatologist-quality
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia)
- You strictly avoid all parabens
- You need a cleanser with active exfoliating ingredients
- You prefer cream or oil-based cleansers
- Your skin is extremely sensitive to foaming products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Effectively removes excess sebum and controls shine without over-stripping. Designed specifically for this skin type.
Balances T-zone oiliness while ceramides and HA keep drier areas comfortable. Great for mixed concerns.
Gentle daily cleanser that maintains skin balance. Effective without disrupting the natural barrier.
May feel slightly stripping for very dry skin. Consider CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser instead, or follow immediately with moisturizer.
Fragrance-free and gentle formula. Most sensitive skin types tolerate well, but patch test first if extremely reactive.
Non-comedogenic formula with anti-acne phytosphingosine. Great basic cleanser, but no active acne-fighting ingredients.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSClean, Fresh Feeling
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed without tightness or dryness. Removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil effectively on first use.
95% noticedBalanced Oil Production
Regular use helps regulate sebum production. Less midday shine and oiliness. Skin begins to feel more balanced throughout the day.
78% noticedImproved Skin Barrier
Ceramide complex supports barrier repair. Skin appears healthier, less reactive, and better able to retain moisture.
65% noticedClearer, Smoother Complexion
Consistent cleansing routine leads to fewer breakouts and improved overall skin texture. Pores appear cleaner and less congested.
58% noticedRatings by platform
100K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dermatologist-developed and recommended
- Excellent value for the quantity
- Effectively removes oil and makeup
- Fragrance-free and gentle
- Contains beneficial ceramides and HA
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Widely available at drugstores
- Great for sensitive skin
Criticized
- May be too drying for very dry skin
- Contains parabens in US formula
- Not ideal for fungal acne sufferers
- Pump can be hard to unlock
- Less foam than some expect
- Basic packaging, not luxurious
- May leave slight film for some users
- No active acne-fighting ingredients
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar gentle, non-stripping formula for normal to oily skin. Lacks ceramides but equally effective at removing oil. More widely available.
Simpler formula with fewer ingredients. Free of parabens, fragrance, and dyes. National Eczema Association approved. Great for ultra-sensitive skin.
Foaming formula for sensitive skin. Contains similar gentle surfactants. Lacks ceramides but includes soothing ingredients. Dermatologist recommended.
Premium alternative with thermal spring water and ceramide. Slightly more luxurious feel. Paraben-free formula. Better for sensitive-oily skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. No refrigeration needed.
Plastic bottle with pump dispenser (8oz, 12oz, 16oz) or squeeze tube (3oz travel size)
Yes - 3oz travel size available and TSA compliant. Larger sizes need to be transferred or checked.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or other ingredients typically contraindicated during pregnancy. Dermatologists frequently recommend this cleanser to expecting mothers as a gentle, effective option. The formula contains only ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and gentle cleansing agents.
Use with caution. The formula contains Polysorbate 20, which is flagged by some sources as a potential trigger for malassezia/fungal acne. However, because this is a rinse-off product and polysorbates at high concentrations can actually starve the yeast, results vary individually. If you have active fungal acne, consider CeraVe's Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser (which is fungal-acne safe) or test this product carefully.
Yes! CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that works well with active ingredients. It's actually ideal to use before applying retinol or other actives because it cleanses without stripping the skin barrier. The ceramides help maintain barrier integrity, which is especially important when using potentially irritating actives. Just ensure skin is completely dry before applying retinol, and always use sunscreen during the day when using AHAs/retinol.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is specifically formulated for normal to oily skin types. It works excellently for: oily skin (removes excess sebum), combination skin (balances T-zone), normal skin (maintains healthy balance), and acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic). If you have dry, very sensitive, or eczema-prone skin, consider CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser instead, which has a non-foaming, cream formula.
You'll notice clean, refreshed skin immediately after first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, most people notice more balanced oil production and less midday shine. After 3-4 weeks, the ceramide complex helps improve overall skin barrier health. For clearer skin and improved texture, expect to see cumulative benefits around 6-8 weeks. Remember, cleansers are foundational - they support but don't replace targeted treatments.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is Step 1 in your routine, both morning and evening. In the AM: Cleanse → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. In the PM: (Oil cleanser if removing heavy makeup) → Foaming Cleanser → Toner → Treatments/Serums → Eye cream → Moisturizer. If double cleansing at night, use this as your second water-based cleanser after an oil-based first cleanse.
No, CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). It's specifically formulated not to clog pores, making it safe for acne-prone skin. The formula is oil-free and doesn't leave pore-clogging residue. However, individual reactions vary - if you notice breakouts, discontinue use. The non-comedogenic claim is tested by the manufacturer and supported by dermatologist recommendations.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal effectiveness and freshness. The preservative system (including parabens in the US formula) helps maintain product stability. Signs it's expired: changes in smell, color, texture, or separation. Unopened, it typically has a shelf life of 2-3 years from manufacture date. Check the batch code on the bottom for production date.
Verdict: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is a dermatologist gold-standard cleanser that delivers exceptional value. Its ceramide-infused formula effectively removes oil and impurities while supporting skin barrier health - a rare combination at this price point. Ideal for normal to oily skin types seeking a gentle yet effective daily cleanser. Minor drawbacks include parabens in the US formula and potential issues for fungal acne sufferers. Overall, it's a reliable workhorse cleanser that lives up to its #1 dermatologist-recommended status and belongs in most skincare routines.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate
Emulsifying
|
|