Cetaphil is a hugely popular and affordable drugstore skincare brand.
Often recommended by dermatologists, Cetaphil offers fuss-free, simple products for a range of skin types.
Curious to learn more about Cetaphil? Continue our review on this popular skincare brand.
The Story Behind Cetaphil
Started in 1947 by a Texas pharmacist, Cetaphil's first product was a cleansing lotion, with the same formula known today as the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser.
As the brand expanded it's product range, it gained a reputation for simple, science-based products to manage sensitive and problematic skin. Often recommended by dermatologists and in healthcare settings, Cetaphil uses simple, effective ingredients to treat a range of skin conditions.
Today, Cetaphil is most known globally for it's range of cleansers and moisturizers to treat acne-prone, sensitive or compromised skin.
To see if there's a product right for you, here is our breakdown of the top Cetaphil products:
Best Cetaphil Products
1. Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
The Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is a low-lather formulation designed for normal to oily skin. It is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, so is the brand's cleanser of choice for acne-prone skin. It produces a light foam and has a slight fragrance.
This cleanser removes oil, pollution and makeup without the risk of over-cleansing and stripping the skin. This is crucial in the fight against acne, as balance is key to avoid irritation and further exacerbating inflammation.
2. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is the brand's original product, with the formula going essentially unchanged. It is an ultra-gentle cleanser formulated specifically for sensitive skin, free from fragrance or foaming agents.
Gentle enough to use as a daily cleanser, this product is also recommended by dermatologists for ultra-sensitive and compromised skin.
While not specifically targeted towards acne, it may help acne sufferers with the sensitivity caused by inflamed skin.
3. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
A bathroom cabinet staple, the Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion is a gentle and effective everyday moisturizer for face and body. Formulated without fragrance, this lotion is both gentle and light enough to use daily.
The top moisturizing ingredient is glycerin, a simple, safe and effective skincare ingredient used to maintain the moisture barrier and soothe dry skin.
While this is not the most intense moisturizer in Cetaphil's range, it is a great place to start for overall skin health. Non-greasy, non-irritating and non-comedogenic, it is a basic product suitable for everyone.
4. Cetaphil Advanced Relief Lotion
Targeted toward extra dry skin, the Cetaphil Advanced Relief Lotion is formulated with shea butter to soothe and repair chronically dry and irritated skin.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance free, it aims to lock in moisture and restore the skin barrier within one week.
This lotion's heavier formula is best suited for the body, and is most effective when used daily.
5. Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
The Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream is an even richer formula targeted toward very dry, sensitive skin on the body.
This emollient and humectant-rich formula aims to prevent moisture loss and intensely hydrate to repair the skin's moisture barrier.
Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and fragrance & paraben-free, this cream is a great option for ultra-dry hands, elbows and knees that need extra moisturization. A great, non-greasy product for extra-sensitive skin.
Does Cetaphil Work?
With a wide range of products and thousands of five star reviews, it seems that Cetaphil is a skincare staple.
With simple, science-based formulations, it is a no-frills brand that can form the foundation of a great skincare routine.
Affordable products and basic ingredients make this brand highly-recommended by dermatologists, especially for sensitive or compromised skin.
FAQs
Is Cetaphil cruelty free?
Cetaphil states that they do not test any of their products on animals. However, as their products are sold all over the world they cannot be considered completely cruelty free- they may in fact test on animals in markets where it is required by law.
Is Cetaphil vegan?
Cetaphil is not vegan. While most products are formualted without animal products, the Cetaphil Cleansing Bar contains sodium tallowate (which comes from the tallow’s fatty acids).
How much does Cetaphil cost?
Cetaphil is an affordable and accesible brand, with most products range from $5-$15.
Where is Cetaphil sold?
Cetaphil is a drugstore brand, available at most pharmacies and grocery stores across the country.
The Bottom Line
With effective products and basic ingredients, Cetaphil is a staple skincare brand for the whole family.
It takes a no-frills approach to skin health, aiming to keep skin soft and hydrated by making products that support the skin barrier.
While Cetaphil products may not use advanced active ingredients, there are affordable products suited to a range of skin concerns, from sensitive to acne-prone to very dry skin.
Overall, a great basic brand with something for everyone.
