Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, non-foaming daily face wash with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid that cleanses without stripping moisture. Developed with dermatologists, this lotion-like cleanser removes dirt, oil, and makeup while helping restore the skin's protective barrier for normal to dry skin.
3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP to help restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier, locking in moisture and sealing out irritants.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP to help restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier, locking in moisture and sealing out irritants.
Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium hyaluronate attracts and binds up to 1,000x its weight in water, drawing hydration to the skin's surface for a plump, comfortable feel.
MVE Delivery Technology
Patented multivesicular emulsion technology encapsulates ceramides and slowly releases moisturizing ingredients for up to 24-hour hydration.
Barrier-Friendly Cleansing
Non-foaming, soap-free formula gently lifts away dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting your skin's delicate moisture barrier or leaving it feeling tight.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Widely considered safe by dermatologists during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains 4 potential fungal acne triggers: Polysorbate 20, PEG-40 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, and fatty alcohols (Cetearyl/Stearyl/Cetyl Alcohol). Avoid if you have active fungal acne.
Unlikely to clog pores. Labeled non-comedogenic by the manufacturer and accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Fragrance-free, soap-free, non-irritating formula. Suitable for eczema-prone and reactive skin. Certified by the National Eczema Association.
Gentle enough to pair with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and other active treatments without over-stripping or irritating the skin.
Free from common allergens, fragrances, dyes, and sulfates. Contains fatty alcohols derived from plant oils, which rarely cause sensitivity but may affect those with coconut-derived ingredient sensitivities.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide NP, AP & EOP ~0.5-1%Proven
Three essential ceramides that mimic the lipids naturally found in the skin's outermost layer. They make up roughly 50% of the intercellular matrix and play a critical role in barrier integrity and moisture retention.
- Function: Restore and maintain the skin barrier by filling gaps between skin cells
- Research: Studies show topical ceramides can improve hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in compromised skin
- Synergy: Combined with cholesterol and phytosphingosine to replicate the skin's natural lipid ratio
Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.1-0.5%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that can attract and hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Its lower molecular weight compared to standard HA allows better penetration into the skin.
- Function: Draws moisture to the skin's surface, improving hydration and skin texture
- Research: Well-documented humectant properties; helps skin appear plumper and more supple
- Benefit: Even in a rinse-off formula, sodium hyaluronate deposits a thin hydrating layer on the skin
Glycerin ~5-10%Proven
A skin-identical humectant that occurs naturally in the skin. Listed second in the INCI, indicating a significant concentration. Glycerin is one of the most effective and well-researched moisturizing ingredients available.
- Function: Attracts water to the skin, maintaining hydration in the upper layers
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Safety: Irritancy rating: 0 | Comedogenicity rating: 0
Cholesterol ~0.1-0.5%Proven
A vital lipid component of the skin barrier. About 25% of the intercellular lipids consist of cholesterol. Works synergistically with ceramides and fatty acids to reinforce skin barrier function.
- Function: Emollient, skin-identical ingredient, and barrier stabilizer
- Synergy: Together with ceramides and phytosphingosine, replicates the skin's natural lipid structure
Phytosphingosine ~0.01-0.1%Promising
A sphingoid base naturally found in the skin's upper layers. It serves as a precursor to ceramides and has demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in research studies.
- Function: Skin-identical lipid, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, supports ceramide synthesis
- Research: Studies show potential benefits for acne-prone skin due to its antimicrobial activity
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) ~0.01-0.1%Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect skin cells from free radical damage. Also functions as a natural preservative in the formula and supports skin barrier repair.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, skin conditioning, stabilizes the formula
- Benefit: Helps protect against environmental oxidative stress during cleansing
24 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-40 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Glyceryl Stearate, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Cetyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 20, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night. For PM double cleansing, use an oil cleanser first to remove makeup/sunscreen, then follow with this cleanser. Can also be used as a body wash or hand wash.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Skin
Splash your face and neck with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can strip the skin of natural oils and exacerbate dryness.
Apply Cleanser
Dispense one to two pumps into your palms. Gently massage the lotion-like cleanser onto your face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds. It will not foam.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until no residue remains. Some users find using a soft washcloth helps ensure a completely clean rinse.
Pat Dry & Continue
Gently pat skin dry with a clean towel. Apply toner, serums, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for maximum absorption.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, dry, or sensitive skin
- Your skin feels tight or stripped after using other cleansers
- You're on active treatments (retinol, tretinoin, AHAs) and need a gentle wash
- You have eczema or a compromised skin barrier
- You want a fragrance-free, no-fuss daily cleanser
- You prefer non-foaming, cream-textured cleansers
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin and want a deep, foaming clean
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer a lathering, foamy cleanser experience
- You need heavy-duty waterproof makeup removal in one step
- You dislike the non-foaming, lotion-like texture
- You are sensitive to fatty alcohols or coconut-derived ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cleanser was designed for dry skin. The ceramide and hyaluronic acid formula hydrates while cleansing, leaving skin comfortable and never tight.
NEA-accepted, fragrance-free, and soap-free. One of the gentlest cleansers on the market for reactive and eczema-prone skin.
Works well for the dry areas but may feel insufficient on oilier zones. Consider using a foaming cleanser for the T-zone or using this in the morning.
May leave a slight residue or film that oily skin types find unsatisfying. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is better suited for oily skin.
Non-comedogenic and gentle enough to pair with acne treatments. However, not fungal acne safe and some users report breakouts from fatty alcohols.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Comfort
Skin feels soft and hydrated right after first use. No tightness or dryness. The lotion-like texture provides instant comfort during cleansing.
90% noticed immediatelyReduced Tightness & Dryness
Noticeable reduction in post-cleansing tightness if switching from a harsher cleanser. Skin begins to feel consistently more hydrated throughout the day.
80% noticed improvementImproved Skin Barrier
Ceramides begin to visibly strengthen the skin barrier. Reduced redness and irritation for many users. Skin feels smoother and more resilient.
70% noticed improvementLong-Term Barrier Health
Consistent use shows cumulative benefits to barrier health. Skin better tolerates active treatments. Overall complexion appears healthier, smoother, and more balanced.
65% noticed significant improvementRatings by platform
209K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — never strips or leaves skin tight
- Excellent value: ~$15 for 16oz lasts months
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating for sensitive/eczema skin
- Ceramides and HA genuinely support the skin barrier
- Pairs perfectly with retinol, tretinoin, and active treatments
- NEA Seal of Acceptance provides clinical credibility
- Available everywhere — drugstores, Amazon, Ulta, Sephora
- Pump bottle is hygienic and easy to use
Criticized
- Can leave a slight film or residue on skin
- Not effective at removing heavy or waterproof makeup alone
- Non-foaming texture feels unusual to some users
- Not ideal for very oily skin types
- Not fungal acne safe (contains fatty alcohols, polysorbates)
- Some users report breakouts from fatty alcohols
- Pump can become difficult near the end of the bottle
- Plain packaging — not "luxurious" feeling
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. No refrigeration needed.
Opaque white plastic pump bottle made from 100% recycled plastic (excluding pump). Twist-lock cap prevents accidental dispensing during travel.
Available in 3oz (87ml) travel size that meets TSA carry-on requirements. Twist-lock pump prevents spills in luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is widely considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any of the commonly flagged ingredients such as retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The formula is gentle, fragrance-free, and relies on ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin — all of which are considered safe for expectant and nursing mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 20, PEG-40 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, and fatty alcohols (Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol). If you have active fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or a simple micellar water that is free from these triggers.
Yes, absolutely. This cleanser is one of the best options to pair with active treatments. Its gentle, non-stripping formula helps preserve the skin barrier, which is especially important when using potentially irritating actives like retinol, tretinoin, vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). The ceramides in this cleanser actively support barrier repair, which helps your skin better tolerate these treatments.
This cleanser is formulated specifically for normal to dry skin. It excels for dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, and compromised skin types. It also works well for combination skin (especially as a morning cleanser) and for anyone using active treatments that cause dryness. However, those with very oily skin may find it insufficient and should consider CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser instead.
You will feel immediate comfort from the first use — skin feels soft and hydrated without tightness. Within 1-2 weeks, most users notice reduced dryness and post-cleansing discomfort. Full skin barrier improvement typically takes 3-4 weeks of consistent daily use. Because this is a cleanser (a rinse-off product), the most dramatic results come from what it does NOT do — it does not strip, irritate, or damage your barrier, allowing your skin to heal and stay healthy.
Use it as the first step (AM) or second step (PM) in your routine. In the morning, cleanse with this product, then follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. In the evening, if you wear makeup or sunscreen, start with an oil cleanser or micellar water first (double cleansing), then use this as your second cleanser. Follow with your evening treatments and moisturizer.
No. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is labeled non-comedogenic by the manufacturer and has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5 — meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. It is also accepted by the National Eczema Association. However, a small number of users do report breakouts, which may be related to individual sensitivity to fatty alcohols rather than pore clogging. If you are prone to closed comedones, introduce it gradually and monitor your skin.
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, you should use it within one year for optimal freshness and effectiveness. The 16oz (473ml) bottle typically lasts 3-5 months with twice-daily use, so you will likely finish it well before the expiration window. Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is one of the best affordable, gentle cleansers available. Its ceramide-rich, non-stripping formula makes it a gold-standard choice for dry, sensitive, and barrier-compromised skin. At roughly $16 for 16oz, the value is exceptional. The only drawbacks are the occasional filmy residue some users experience and the fact that it is not suitable for fungal acne. If you want a no-nonsense, dermatologist-approved daily cleanser that genuinely supports your skin barrier without breaking the bank, this is it. It pairs beautifully with active treatments and has earned its cult-favorite status for good reason.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-40 Stearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Foam Boosting, Masking, Opacifying, Refatting, Viscosity Controlling
|
|