Are you searching for the Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser? The Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser review is a hydrating cleanser that can remove dirt, makeup, and other debris. It’s essential to choose a formula that won’t disrupt the skin’s natural protective barrier or strip the skin of its natural moisture.

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a gentle face wash with ingredients like ceramides, which reinforce the barrier and help the skin lock in moisture, and hyaluronic acid, which attracts hydration to the skin’s surface.
Dermatologists developed CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser to cleanse and refresh the skin without overstripping it or leaving it feeling tight and dry.
Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is a popular skincare product produced by the brand CeraVe. It’s designed as a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that helps to cleanse the skin while also maintaining its natural moisture barrier. This cleanser is often recommended for individuals with normal to dry skin types, sensitive skin, or those who are looking for a mild and hydrating cleansing option.
The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser includes ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and other beneficial ingredients that can help support the skin’s hydration and barrier function. Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the skin and are crucial for maintaining its protective barrier. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture, helping to keep the skin hydrated.
One of the unique aspects of this cleanser is its non-stripping formula. Unlike many traditional cleansers that can leave the skin feeling tight or dry after use, the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser aims to cleanse the skin without disrupting its natural moisture balance. This makes it popular for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
The 5 Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser Review for 2025
The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is a single product that CeraVe offers under that specific name. It doesn’t have different variations labeled as “best” within the same product line. However, if you’re looking for alternatives or similar products that provide gentle cleansing and hydration, you might consider exploring other CeraVe cleansers or products from different brands. Here are a few options:
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser: This is another popular CeraVe option. Unlike the Hydrating Cleanser, it’s a foaming cleanser suitable for normal to oily skin types. It still contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help maintain the skin’s barrier and hydration.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser: This gentle, hydrating cleanser is often recommended for sensitive skin. It’s formulated to cleanse the skin while maintaining its natural moisture balance.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel: While not from the CeraVe line, this cleanser is popular for its hyaluronic acid-rich formula that helps lock in moisture while cleansing.
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser: This is another gentle option suitable for sensitive skin. It’s free of common irritants and helps cleanse without over-drying.
Avene Gentle Milk Cleanser: Avene is known for its products that are formulated for sensitive skin. This milk cleanser offers gentle cleansing and hydration.
1. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
The CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is another popular product from the CeraVe brand. It’s designed for normal to oily skin types and provides thorough cleansing while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Here’s the general information about the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser:
Key Ingredients
Ceramides: Like other CeraVe products, this cleanser also includes essential ceramides (ceramide 1, ceramide 3, and ceramide 6-II) that help reinforce the skin’s protective barrier.
Niacinamide: This is a form of vitamin B3 that can help improve the skin’s overall appearance by addressing issues like uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, and fine lines.
Hyaluronic Acid: A humectant that attracts and retains moisture, helping to keep the skin hydrated and plump.
Key Features
Foaming Formula: As the name suggests, this cleanser foams when mixed with water. It effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin’s surface.
Gentle Cleansing: While it’s a foaming cleanser, it’s still formulated to be gentle and non-stripping, helping to avoid over-drying the skin.
Non-Comedogenic: The formula is designed not to clog pores, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-Free: Like many CeraVe products, this cleanser is fragrance-free, which can benefit those with sensitive skin.
2. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is a popular skincare product known for its mild and hydrating formula. It’s particularly well-suited for sensitive skin and those with various skin concerns. Here’s some information about this cleanser:
Key Features
Gentle Cleansing: The Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is designed to cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. It effectively removes dirt, makeup, and impurities without irritating.
Minimalist Formula: The formula is minimalistic, containing limited ingredients to reduce the risk of triggering sensitivity or allergies.
Prebiotic Thermal Water: This cleanser contains La Roche-Posay’s signature prebiotic thermal water, which can help soothe and hydrate the skin.
Moisturizing Ingredients: The formula includes glycerin, a humectant that helps attract and retain moisture on the skin’s surface.
Fragrance-Free: Like many products designed for sensitive skin, this cleanser is fragrance-free to minimize the risk of irritation.
Suitable For
Sensitive Skin: This cleanser is formulated with sensitivity and is often recommended for individuals with reactive or easily irritated skin.
Normal to Dry Skin: While it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, its hydrating properties also make it suitable for dry skin.
Post-Procedure: Many dermatologists recommend this cleanser after procedures such as chemical peels, laser treatments, or microdermabrasion when the skin’s barrier may be compromised.
3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel
The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel is a skincare product known for its hydrating and refreshing formula. It’s designed to cleanse the skin while providing a boost of hydration. Here’s some information about this cleansing gel:
Key Features
Hydrating Formula: The Hydro Boost Cleansing Gel is formulated with hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture. This helps to keep the skin hydrated even during the cleansing process.
Gel Texture: The cleanser has a lightweight, refreshing gel texture that lathers into a gentle foam. This texture helps to remove impurities, makeup, and excess oil without over-drying the skin.
Non-Comedogenic: The formula is non-comedogenic, meaning it’s less likely to clog pores and cause breakouts.
Fragrance-Free: This cleanser is fragrance-free, beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or those who prefer to avoid added fragrances in their skincare products.
Suitable For
All Skin Types: This cleanser’s hydrating and non-stripping nature makes it suitable for various skin types, from dry to oily.
Dehydrated Skin: If your skin feels dehydrated or lacks moisture, the hyaluronic acid in this cleanser can help provide a boost of hydration.
Sensitive Skin: The fragrance-free and gentle formula can be well-tolerated by sensitive skin types.
Usage
- Apply the cleansing gel to wet skin and massage gently to create a lather.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Follow up with your regular skincare routine, which may include moisturizer and other products.
4. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
The Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a skincare product known for its mild and non-irritating formula. It is suitable for individuals with sensitive skin and those prone to various skin conditions. Here’s an overview of this cleanser:
Key Features
Gentle Cleansing: The Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is formulated to cleanse the skin without causing irritation or stripping away its natural moisture. It’s designed to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities while maintaining the skin’s barrier.
Non-Irritating Formula: This cleanser is free from common irritants such as dyes, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates, making it a good option for individuals with sensitivities or allergies.
The formula is pH-balanced to help maintain the skin’s natural acidity, which is vital for a healthy skin barrier.
Oil-Free: The cleanser is oil-free, making it suitable for various skin types, including oily and combination.
Dermatologist-Tested: Dermatologists often recommend the Vanicream brand for individuals with sensitive or problematic skin.
Suitable For
Sensitive Skin: The gentle and irritant-free formula is well-suited for sensitive skin types and those with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.
All Skin Types: While it’s mainly designed for sensitive skin, its non-irritating nature makes it suitable for all skin types.
Usage
Wet your face with water.
Apply a small amount of the cleanser to your hands and work into a lather.
Gently massage the lather onto your face in a circular motion.
Rinse thoroughly with water.
5. Avene Gentle Milk Cleanser
The Avène Gentle Milk Cleanser is a skincare product known for its gentle and moisturizing formula. Avène is a brand that often focuses on products suitable for sensitive skin, and this cleanser is no exception. Here’s an overview of the Avène Gentle Milk Cleanser:
Key Features
Mild Cleansing: The Gentle Milk Cleanser is formulated to cleanse the skin gently, effectively removing dirt, makeup, and impurities without causing irritation or dryness.
Rich and Creamy Texture: As the name suggests, the cleanser has a milk-like texture that feels soft and creamy, contributing to its moisturizing properties.
Soothing Properties: Avène’s thermal spring water is a key ingredient in many products and is known for its relaxing effects on the skin. This cleanser may help to provide some relief to sensitive or irritated skin.
Moisturizing Ingredients: The formula includes hydrating ingredients that help prevent the skin from feeling stripped of moisture during cleansing.
Fragrance-Free: Like many Avène products, this cleanser is often fragrance-free, catering to those with sensitive skin or who prefer products without added fragrances.
Suitable For
Sensitive Skin: Avène products are frequently recommended for sensitive skin types due to their gentle and non-irritating formulas. This cleanser can be particularly beneficial for those with easily reactive skin.
Dry to Normal Skin: This cleanser’s moisturizing properties make it suitable for individuals with dry or normal skin types.
Usage
Apply the cleanser to your face and neck, gently massaging in circular motions.
Rinse off with water or use a cotton pad to wipe away the cleanser.
Follow up with your regular skincare routine, which may include a moisturizer.
The Formula is Equal Parts Cleansing and Hydrating
The results of washing your face with a CeraVe Hydrating Facial cleanser are immediate. Post-wash, my skin feels clean, refreshed, and hydrated without feeling taut, tight, or greasy.
Thanks to a combination of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, they cleanse and moisturize the skin and strengthen its protective lipid layer.
Now, a bit of the science behind the creamiest and protective barrier: “Creaminess is a great ingredient to have in a cleanser because it helps hold our skin cells together, helping us maintain our natural moisture,” says a board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Dandy Engelman. They have been proven to hydrate and repair skin experiencing a compromised barrier, which often takes the form of dryness.
Cons Worth Mentioning
People with oily skin who prefer an astringent wash that leaves the face feeling taut and squeaky clean may see less than desirable results, as this is specifically geared toward normal to dry skin.
This face wash also does not contain an exfoliant, so those seeking to smooth rough or bumpy skin may want to consider products like CeraVe’s Renewing SA Cleanser.
While this is not technically a drawback to the face wash, as a person who does not wear makeup, I cannot attest to its effectiveness in removing and cleansing the face of cosmetic products.
When in doubt, a double cleanse with an oil cleanser employed first, followed by this wash, is always a good idea.
Buying Guideline
Identify Your Skin Type
Understand your skin type (normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive) and any specific concerns you want to address (acne, aging, dryness, etc.). Different products are formulated to cater to specific skin types and concerns.
Research Ingredients
Learn about key ingredients that address your specific skin concerns. For example, if you’re looking for hydration, ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are beneficial. If you have acne-prone skin, ingredients like salicylic acid might be helpful.
Read Reviews and Recommendations
Check online reviews and recommendations from reputable sources, such as skincare experts, dermatologists, and beauty bloggers. Customer reviews can provide insights into how a product works for real people.
Check for Allergens and Sensitivities
Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products formulated for sensitive skin if you have known sensitivities or allergies.
Understand Product Claims
Pay attention to product claims and benefits listed on the packaging. Specific claims (e.g., “hypoallergenic” or “dermatologist-tested”) might not be regulated and can vary in meaning.
Patch Test
Before applying a new product to your face, do a patch test on a small skin area to check for adverse reactions. This is especially important if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Check for Expiry Dates
Always check the product’s expiry date before purchasing. Expired products may be less effective or even cause skin issues.
Consult with Professionals
Consider consulting a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized recommendations if you have specific skin conditions or concerns.
Compare Prices
Compare prices of similar products from different brands to ensure you’re getting good value for your money. However, prioritize quality and suitability over price.
Check Return Policies
Ensure you understand the return and exchange policies of the store or website where you purchase the product. This can be helpful if the product doesn’t work well for you.
Ingredient Compatibility
If you’re using other skincare products, ensure the new product is compatible with your routine. Certain ingredients might interact negatively.
Packaging and Storage
Consider the product’s packaging. Airless pumps or opaque bottles can help preserve the product’s effectiveness for some ingredients. Also, ensure you store the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Sample Sizes or Travel Kits
If available, try sample sizes or travel kits before committing to a full-size product. This way, you can test how your skin responds without investing in a larger quantity.
(FAQs)
1. What is CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser?
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a gentle, non-foaming cleanser designed to cleanse the skin while maintaining its natural moisture barrier. It’s often recommended for individuals with normal to dry skin types or sensitive skin.
2. Is CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser suitable for all skin types?
The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is generally suitable for all skin types. Still, it’s particularly well-suited for individuals with normal to dry skin or those looking for a gentle cleanser.
3. Does CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser remove makeup?
Yes, the cleanser can help remove makeup, although it might be more effective for light makeup. For heavy or waterproof makeup, you might want to consider using a dedicated makeup remover before cleansing.
4. Does it contain fragrance?
The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is typically formulated to be fragrance-free, which is beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or those who prefer products without added fragrances.
5. Can I use CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser if I have oily skin?
While the cleanser is more targeted toward normal to dry skin types, some individuals with oily skin have also found it suitable. However, if you’re looking for a deep cleanser, consider the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser instead.
6. Can I use CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser every day?
The cleanser can be used daily as part of your skincare routine. Its gentle formula makes it suitable for regular use without over-drying the skin.
7. Can CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser cause breakouts?
The cleanser’s non-comedogenic and gentle formula is less likely to cause breakouts, but everyone’s skin reacts differently. It is always recommended to do a patch test and observe how your skin responds.
8. Can CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser be used as a body wash?
While the product is formulated for the face, some individuals with sensitive or dry skin have successfully used it as a body wash. However, remember that it might not lather much like traditional body washes.
9. Is it safe to use around the eyes?
The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is generally safe to use around the eyes for gentle makeup removal. Still, it’s always best to be cautious and avoid direct contact with the eyes.
The Bottom Line
It is essential to take a thoughtful and informed approach to skincare and purchase products like the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Your skin is unique, and finding the right products can improve its health and appearance.
I would be hard-pressed to name another everyday face wash that has been as beneficial to my skin as CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser over the past three years. It’s gentle on my sensitive skin, hydrating, and can be used on more than just my face.
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