Cerave vs Cetaphil – what’s the difference between them? They are both dermatologist recommended skincare brands which look similar. I investigated which were the best CeraVe and Cetaphil products for every skin concern including acne and eczema.
Cetaphil is a much older brand that CeraVe. It was created in 1947 by a pharmacist in Texas who wanted to create a gentle skin cleanser. That cleanser is known today as the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and still uses the same formula as when it was first created over 70 years ago.
CeraVe is a much newer company and founded in 2005 by American researchers and dermatologists. It is the first and only skincare brand which offers a full line of products containing three essential ceramides that the skin needs.
Since CeraVe is a more modern company it has taken advantage of the latest technology to develop its formula. The brand use their patented Multivesicular Emulsion (MVE) technology in all their products. It allows ceramides to be released into the skin slowly over time, keeping the skin hydrated throughout the day.
Both brands produce dermatologically tested and pH-balanced products which are recommended by skincare experts for a variety of skin concerns including acne and eczema.
This post looks at the difference between each product in the CeraVe and Cetaphil lines, and which one is better for different skin conditions. It also looks at the potential skincare routines created from each, or a mixture of the two brands.
This post is a comparison between CeraVe vs Cetaphil
CeraVe vs Cetaphil
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- CeraVe vs Cetaphil
- What’s the Difference Between Cetaphil and CeraVe?
- Cerave vs Cetaphil Cleanser
- CeraVe vs Cetaphil Moisturizer
- CeraVe vs Cetaphil Eye Cream
- Cerave vs Cetaphil Serum
- Cerave vs Cetaphil for Acne Prone skin
- CeraVe vs Cetaphil for Eczema
- Are CeraVe and Cetaphil Cruelty Free?
- Cruelty Free Alternatives to CeraVe & Cetaphil
What’s the Difference Between Cetaphil and CeraVe?
Very generally CeraVe is slightly better than Cetaphil for dry skin, and Cetaphil is better than CeraVe for sensitive skin.
CeraVe is different from Cetaphil in that it contains ceramides to help protect the skin’s outer barrier, as well as hyaluronic acid. CeraVe’s formulation is also slightly more advanced, being a newer product, and is designed to release gradually throughout the day.
Both CeraVe and Cetaphil have won awards for their products, and both are non-irritating and fragrance-free.
Cerave vs Cetaphil Cleanser
When it comes to cleansers Cerave and Cetaphil have different options for different skin types including dry skin, oily skin and acne prone skin. They also both make exfoliating cleansers.
Compared with Cetaphil, CeraVe have slightly more options including selling a cleanser bar which is deeply moistursing and contains 5% CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.
Cleanser bars are preferable to bottles when it comes to travelling since they are easier to carry. They are also more environmentally friendly since they generate less waste.
I had a look at the different cleansers available to determine which is better CeraVe or Cetaphil for different skin conditions.
Best For Dry Skin
Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser vs Cerave Hydrating Cleanser
If you have dry or dry/sensitive skin you would either want to use the Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser or the CeraVe Hydrating cleanser. Both of these cleansers are very mild and won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
They both remove dirt, grime and makeup whilst at the same to moisturising the skin and protecting the skin’s natural barrier.
Best Option for Very Dry or Dehydrated Skin
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
- ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES: Contains 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to cleanse while protecting the...
- MOISTURE RETAINING INGREDIENTS: Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to retain skin’s moisture
- GENTLE ON SKIN: Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- NON-FOAMING GEL: Ideal for normal to try skin. Removes dirt, oil and makeup without leaving the skin...
- DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If your skin is extremely dry or dehydrated, the CeraVe cleanser is the better choice. It is packed with moisturising and hydrating ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin, which the Cetaphil cleanser does not contain.
All CeraVe products contain their magic formula of Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides 1, 3 and 6-II, which is designed to release Ceramides gradually over time, keeping your skin hydrated and protected throughout the day.
CeraVe products are so effective at soothing dryness they are recommended by the National Eczema Association. This product is also non-comedogenic, non-irritating and fragrance-free.
Best Option for Dry, Sensitive Skin
Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Soap-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-pore blocking
- Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and healthy
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If your skin is dry and also particularly sensitive, the Cetaphil cleanser is the better option. By comparison it contains far fewer ingredients than the CeraVe cleanser, and the ingredients are simpler and more natural. This may avoid irritating or triggering sensitive skin.
Whilst being good for sensitive skin, the Cetaphil cleanser is also hydrating. It contains Propylene Glycol which forms a protective film on the skin and helps it to retain water. Like the CeraVe cleanser it is also fragrance free and non-comedogenic.
Best For Oily Skin
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Vs Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
If you have oily skin you should either use the CeraVe Foaming cleanser or the Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser. Both remove excess oils from the skin without irritation or disrupting the skin’s natural protective barrier.
Best Option for Oily, Acne Prone Skin
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser
- ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES: Contains 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to cleanse while protecting the...
- MOISTURE RETAINING INGREDIENTS: Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to retain skin’s moisture
- FOAMING GEL: Ideal for normal to oily skin. Refreshing gel removes dirt, oil and makeup
- GENTLE ON SKIN: Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS
Last update on 2021-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If your skin is oily and prone to break outs, the CeraVe cleanser is the better choice. As well as the usual three ceramides and hyaluronic acid contained in all CeraVe products, this cleanser also contains Niacinamide.
Niacinamide helps to clear acne by controlling oil production and preventing your skin becoming congested and clogged. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to calm redness and irritation. This ingredient is not found in the Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser.
Best Option for Oily, Sensitive Skin
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
- Removes excess oil by up to 60% without drying the skin or producing any significant irritation
- It has a gentle foaming action that leaves the skin with a clean feeling, without any irritating...
- Suitable for teenagers and adults with combination, oily or spot-prone skin
- The cleanser is effective for deep-pore Cleaning
- Non-irritating formula designed to remove surface oils, dirt, and makeup without leaving the skin...
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The ingredients in the Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser are slightly more gentle and would be the best option if your skin is both oily and sensitive. The product is soap free and has a much more gentle foaming action than the CeraVe cleanser.
Best For Exfoliation
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser Vs Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser
The CeraVe and Cetaphil cleansers for exfoliation are both very different. CeraVe’s cleanser is a chemical exfoliant whereas Cetaphil’s cleanser is a physical exfoliant.
Exfoliants remove dead skin cells which allows your serums and moisturisers to then be absorbed better into the skin.
Physical exfoliants include scrubs, brushes, sponges, and loofahs. They remove dead skin cells using friction. This is what the Cetaphil exfoliating cleanser does.
Chemical exfoliants on the other hand are acids which work to remove dead skin cells by disolving the “glue” that holds them together. This is the way the CeraVe exfoliating cleanser works, containing Salicylic acid.
A chemical exfoliant is generally considered better than a physical one in that it doesn’t contain harsh microbeads which can not only scratch your skin, but are also harmful to the environment.
Some people however prefer the feeling of a physical exfoliant so the choice between the CeraVe and Cetaphil exfoliating cleanser will come down to a personal preference as to whether you prefer physical or chemical exfoliation.
Vogue published an article on the pros and cons of each option to help you make up your mind!
Best Chemical Exfoliant
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
- CLEANSES & SMOOTHS: Removes dirt and oil whilst smoothing rough & bumpy skin. Also suitable for...
- GENTLY EXFOLIATES: Salicylic Acid helps to exfoliate the skin while Hyaluronic Acid retains the...
- ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES: Contains 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to protect the skin's natural...
- GENTLE ON SKIN: Free of physical exfoliants, fragrance free & non-comedogenic
- DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS
Last update on 2021-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser provides gentle, non-irritating exfoliation without harsh microbeads that can scratch your skin. It is another good CeraVe cleanser for acne prone skin since it contains Niacinamide which helps to regulate oil production and unclog pores.
Like all CeraVe cleansers this product also contains the three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It helps to smooth and soften the skin whilst protecting its natural barrier. This formula is also enriched with Vitamin D.
Best Physical Exfoliant
Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser
- For normal, dry or combination skin
- Gently exfoliates whilst cleansing
- Gentle enough to be used daily
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The Cetaphil exfoliating cleanser is a very light and gentle scrub. You can feel a few particles in the formula but it does not feel abrasive or rough on the skin. It is designed to very gently unclog the pores and lift dead skin cells.
Cleanser Comparison Tables
The two tables below show the range of cleansers available from both CeraVe and Cetaphil. They compare each cleanser looking at the price, texture and which skin type they suit best.
CeraVe Cleansers Comparison Table









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Cetaphil Cleansers Comparison Table







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CeraVe vs Cetaphil Moisturizer
Both CeraVe and Cetaphil make a wide range of different moisturizers for different skin conditions. This post compares the most popular mositurizers from the two brands for both day and night use.
Best Day Moisturizer
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream vs Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
If you want a basic day moisturizer, two popular products from each brand are the CeraVe Moisturzing Cream and the Cetaphil Moisturzing Cream.
Both products are suited to dry skin and both are recommended by dermatologists to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Best for Extremely Dry Skin
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
- ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES: Contains 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help protect the skin’s...
- ALL DAY HYDRATION: Formulated with patented MVE Technology to release skin nourishing ingredients...
- MOISTURE RETAINING INGREDIENTS: Formulated with hyaluronic acid to help retain skin's natural...
- GENTLE ON SKIN: Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- FAST ABSORBING: Hydrates Face, Body & Hands without leaving skin feeling greasy
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you find you need to reapply your moisturizer throughout the day to stop your skin becoming dry, the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is the best option for you.
This cream has a formula which releases a steady stream of moisturizing ingredients throughout the day. This means it will keep your skin moisturised, reducing the need to reapply the product.
The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is rich, non greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin. This makes it a good base for makeup.
Best for Sensitive Skin
Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
- Formulated specifically for chronic dry, sensitive skin
- Clinically proven to bind water to the skin and prevent moisture loss.
- Free of lanolins, parabens and fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin. Non-comedogenic.
- Provides long-lasting relief to even severe dry skin.
- Cosmetically appealing for facial use
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Like the CeraVe option, the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream is recommended for dry skin. It provides 24hr hydration and moisturises the skin. Since CeraVe is using a more modern formula with the latest technology, it gives their product the slight edge on the Cetaphil one.
If your skin is particularly sensitive however then the Cetaphil cream may be the better option for you. This has been tested and proven to be gentle on extremely sensitive skin. It is hypoallergenic and has been clinically tested to not irritate the skin.
Best for Sun protection
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 25 Vs Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser SPF 50
CeraVe actually make two moisturizers which contain sunscreen: the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 25 and the CeraVe Ultra-Light Face Lotion with Sunscreen (SPF 30).
The difference between CeraVe’s two sunscreens is the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion is designed for normal to dry skin whereas the CeraVe Ultra-Light Face Lotion is designed for normal to oily skin.
When buying a sunscreen, the NHS recommends a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect against UVB, and at least a 4-star UVA protection.
The CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion falls short of this with a SPF of 25, and although their Ultra-Light Face Lotion has a SPF of 30, it is designed for oily skin, so may not be the best choice if your skin is dry.
The Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser is a great overall choice as it has a SPF 50 and recommended for all skin types.
Best Overall
Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser SPF 50
- Non-pore blocking
- Helps defend against the effects of daily exposure to sunlight and helps skin maintain is natural...
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free
- Non-irritating, dermatologist tested
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When it comes to sun protection, the clear winner is the Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser which has a SPF 50+ and is available at a very affordable price.
The formula contains micronized Titanium dioxide which absorbs quickly without leaving any white residue. Titanium dioxide a common ingredient in sunscreens designed for sensitive skin. It protects against both UVA and UVB rays whilst being extremely gentle on sensitive or redness-prone skin.
This product works for all skin types and is especially good for sensitive skin.
CeraVe’s Moisturizers containing SPF25 and SPF30
CeraVe’s two moisturisers which contain sunscreen are listed below, the first being the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 25, and the second the CeraVe Ultra-Light Face Lotion SPF 30.
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Best Night Moisturizer
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion Vs Cetaphil Rich Night Cream
If you are looking for a basic night moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated throughout the night, you would either want the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion or the Cetaphil Rich Night Cream.
Both products are moisturizing and hydrating and recommended by dermatologists. Each product also contains a formula which has been designed to not clog the pores.
Best for Acne Prone Skin
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion
- ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES: Contains 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to protect the skin’s natural...
- ALL DAY HYDRATION: Formulated with patented MVE Technology to release skin nourishing ingredients...
- MOISTURE RETAINING INGREDIENTS: Formulated with hyaluronic acid to help retain skin's natural...
- WON'T CLOG PORES: Non-comedogenic
- DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS
Last update on 2021-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The CeraVe PM Facial Moisturing Lotion is a good option if your skin is dry but also sometimes prone to acne. It is an oil free, non-comedogenic formula so it won’t clog the pores, and also contains Niacinamide which helps to regulate oil production in the skin.
At the same time this product contains the usual three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to keep moisture in the skin and help to restore the skin’s natural barrier.
Overall this formula is very calming and helps to soothe redness or irritation. It can be used by combination skin types and works to reduce acne.
Best for Sensitive Skin
Cetaphil Rich Night Cream
- Intensively moisturises, replenishes and rehydrates to help maintain skin's natural protective...
- Leaves skin feeling smooth, soft and comfortable
- Suitable for use on all skin types including sensitive skin, does not block pores
- Fragrance-free
- Non-irritating, dermatologist tested
Last update on 2021-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Cetaphil Rich Night Cream is designed for dry and sensitive skin. It is an extremely rich and nourishing formula packed full of ingredients which retain moisture in the skin.
This product has no added fragrance and is dermatologically tested to be suitable for skin that is sensitive or prone to redness or irritation.
Moisturizer Comparison Tables
The tables below show a selection from the range of moisturisers available from both CeraVe and Cetaphil. The first two tables compare each day moisturizer looking at the price, SPF level and which skin type they suit best. The third table compares the night moisturizers from both CeraVe and Cetaphil.
Cerave Day Moisturizers Comparison Table









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Cetaphil Day Moisturizers Comparison Table









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Night Moisturziers Comparison Table







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CeraVe vs Cetaphil Eye Cream
When it comes to eye cream the CeraVe and Cetaphil eye creams are both very different. The CeraVe product is a cream whereas the Cetaphil option is a gel. They also have different key ingredients and provide different benefits.
Very generally if you are looking to target dark circles and puffiness then the CeraVe eye cream would be the best choice. If you are looking to brighten your under eye area for a well-rested look, the Cetaphil eye cream is for you.
Best for Dark Circles and Puffiness
CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
- PROTECT & BRIGHTEN: Reduces the look of dark circles and puffiness for brighter, healthier looking...
- ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES: Contains 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to protect the skin’s natural...
- MOISTURE RETAINING INGREDIENTS: Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to help retain skin's natural...
- GENTLE ON SKIN: Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)
- DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The CeraVe Eye Repair Cream is designed to reduce dark circles and puffiness. The formula contains Niacinamide which has been shown to lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide interferes with the process through which pigment travels to the surface of the skin. It is therefore effective at reducing darkness under the eyes.
Niacinamide also helps the skin to grow a ceramide (lipid) barrier which prevents the skin loosing moisture. This effect combined with the three ceramides contained in CeraVe products, helps to firm the skin and lessen puffiness.
Best for Brightening
Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream
Last update on 2021-03-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a brightening eye cream that smoothes the under eye area and gives it a well rested look, the Cetaphil eye cream is the best option.
The Cetaphil eye cream contains licorice which is known for its skin brightening properties. Licorice is often used in skincare products to help fade dark scars and to firm and tighten the skin.
Licorice root extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been shown to reduce melanin content when applied to the skin. For this reason it is also effective at lightening skin pigmentation around the eyes, making them appear brighter and more beautiful.
Eye Creams Comparison Table
The table below shows a comparison between the CeraVe and Cetaphil eye creams looking at the difference in price, texture, ingredients and key benefits.



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Cerave vs Cetaphil Serum
When it comes to serums, CeraVe is the clear winner over Cetaphil. CeraVe make five different serums focusing on different key ingredients including hyaluronic acid, retinol and vitamin C. They also have a gel oil which contains five ceramides.
Cetaphil on the other hand only product one serum which targets dehydration where the key ingredient is hyaluronic acid
Best Hydrating Serum
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum Vs Cetaphil Deep Hydration 48 Hour Activation Serum
Both CeraVe and Cetaphil make a serum for dehydration where the key ingredient is hyaluronic acid. Both serums also contain Vitamin B5 which keeps the skin soft, smooth and healthy. Vitamin B5 is also deeply hydrating as it absorbs moisture from the air.
If you have dehydrated skin either of these serums would work just as well to add moisture to the skin. Cetaphil may have the slight edge on CeraVe if you have particularly sensitive skin, however the two serums are very similar. Both products can either be used alone or under moisturizer.
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
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The CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum comes in a gel cream formula. It contains CeraVe’s highest concentration of hyaluronic acid along with their patented three essential ceramides and MVE Technology. This serum claims to hydrate your skin for 24 hours
Cetaphil Deep Hydration 48 Hour Activation Serum
The Cetaphil Deep Hydration Serum claims to hydrate the skin for 48 hours – 24 hours longer than CeraVe’s serum. It improves the overall quality of sensitive skin. This is one of Cetaphil’s more modern products and uses their latest technology, the HydroSensitivTM Complex.
The formula includes blue daisy which is the perfect skincare ingredient for sensitive skin that needs extra hydration. It has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces discomfort and reactiveness of the skin. It also helps to heal wounds and repair skin tissue.
Best Retinol Serum
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum Vs CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
CeraVe make two retinol serums, the Resurfacing Retinol Serum and the Skin Renewing Retinol Serum. The Resurfacing Serum is designed to reduce the appearance of post-acne marks and pore size, whereas the Renewing Retinol Serum is designed to reduce fine lines and wrinkles
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
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You should choose the Resurfacing Retinol Serum if you want to reduce scarring from acne, minimize pore size and brighten the skin. This formula is designed to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation by gently resurfacing the skin.
This product smooths the skin’s texture and improves the skin’s surface. It contains licorice root extract which also helps to brighten the skin and lighten dark marks. It also contains Niacinamide which helps to restore even skin tone.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
- [ RETINOL SERUM FOR FACE ] Contains one 1 ounce tube of CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
- [ ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6 II) help to restore the...
- [ PATENTED TECHNOLOGY ] Utilizes patented MVE controlled release technology to help replenish...
- [ REVEAL BRIGHTER SKIN ] Ideal for all skin types
- [ MULTIPLE USES ] Use alone or under makeup once or twice a day
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You should choose the Skin Renewing Serum if you want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This formula provides a variety of anti-aging benefits.
Best Vitamin C Serum
CeraVe Vitamin C Serum
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The CeraVe Vitamin C Serum contains 10% Vitamin C in the form of Ascorbic Acid. It improves the texture of the skin whilst providing antioxidant protection. If you are looking for a Vitamin C serum for sensitive skin types, this product is allergy tested, fragrance free, paraben free and non-comedogenic.
Best Gel Oil
CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil
- ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES : Helps replenish the vital ceramides healthy skin needs
- VISIBLY IMPROVES RADIANCE : Formulated with CeraplexTM, a 5-ceramide and sunflower blend to...
- PATENTED TECHNOLOGY : Utilizes patented MVE controlled-release technology to help replenish...
- GENTLE ON SKIN: Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), non-irritating and fragrance free
- CERAMIDE BOOST: Use before applying or combined with face lotion for intense hydration
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil is different from the other serums in that it’s a target treatment – you apply it in small dots where it’s needed around the face. It provides hydration to particularly dehydrated areas.
This hydrating oil contains a unique blend of five ceramides and sunflower oil called CeraPlex™. It can be used alone or underneath your moisturizer to provide the skin with some extra hydration.
Cerave vs Cetaphil for Acne Prone skin
If you have acne prone skin both CeraVe and Cetaphil product a range of non-comedogenic products that won’t clog pores. They also both produce products that specifically target acne prone skin.
If you’re wondering whether you should use CeraVe or Cetaphil for acne prone skin, very generally CeraVe is the better option if your skin is dry but acne prone, and Cetaphil is the better choice is your skin is oily but acne prone. Cetaphil also has the slight edge on CeraVe when it comes to products for sensitive skin types.
Best Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin
Best for Dry Acne Prone Skin
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion
- 3 oz, Controlled release facial moisturizing lotion, Non-comedogenic
- 3 oz
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If you are using a retinol serum, a moisturizer with sunscreen is essential. This is because retinol makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen is an excellent non-comedogenic moisturizer with SPF. The product contains a broad spectrum SPF 30 which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
The CerVa AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion was created with acne sufferers in mind. It is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause acne flare ups. It also contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and ceramides to protect the skin’s barrier and keep it moiturized.
The CeraVe moisturizer is packed full of ingredients that soothe dry skin, so if your skin is dry but also prone to acne, this moisturizer would be the best choice.
Best for Oily Acne Prone Skin
Cetaphil Oil Absorbing Moisturizer
- 3-in-1 formula to control oil, hydrate, and provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Micropearl technology provides a matte finish
- Formulated with Oleosome technology which uses fewer filters forl less irritation and greater...
- Shown to reduce dryness and roughness in patients using acne prescription treatments
- Paraben free, fragrance free, won't clog pores
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Like the CeraVe moisturiser, the Cetaphil Oil Absorbing Moisturizer also contains a SPF 30. It differs from the CeraVe product in that it is specifically formulated for oily skin. It contains ingredients which absorb excess oil to leave the skin shine free with a matte finish.
If your skin is oily as well as acne prone, the Cetaphil moisturiser would be the best choice.
CeraVe Acne Skincare Routine
Related: 5 Best CeraVe Products for Acne that will Clear Your Skin
Products for the CeraVe Skincare Routine for Acne
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Cetaphil Acne Skincare Routine
Products for the Cetaphil Skincare Routine for Acne
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CeraVe vs Cetaphil for Eczema
When it comes to ezcema, CeraVe is the better choice over Cetaphil. CeraVe are recommended by the National Ezcema Association.
Three of CeraVe’s products (the moisturizing cream, moisturizing lotion and hydrating cleanser) have been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. They were also added to a dermatologist approved list of products created or intended for use by people with eczema.
CeraVe also create products specifically formulated for people with eczema. One example is the CeraVe Eczema Creamy Oil. This oil is ideal for dry, eczema-prone skin, as it effectively moisturizes even the driest skin and protects its natural barrier.
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are CeraVe and Cetaphil Cruelty Free?
Unfortunately neither CeraVe nor Cetaphil are cruelty free brands.
According to CeraVe’s website the brand does not test on animals, however CeraVe is owned by L’Oréal who do sell products to China which requires animal testing by law. CeraVe also state on their own website that they sell products in China.
Cetaphil also state on their website that they do not test on animals, however Cetaphil are owned by Galderma Laboratories which is not a cruelty free company. They also state on their website that they sell to China.
See the following:
CeraVe’s website showing that CeraVe is sold in China
Cetaphil’s website showing that Cetaphil is sold in China
Since animal testing is required on all cosmetic products in China both CeraVe and Cetaphil must have been tested on animals.
Cruelty Free Alternatives to CeraVe & Cetaphil
The list of brands below are all certified as vegan and cruelty free by Peta. Like CeraVe and Cetaphil they produce products for sensitive skin and many are dermatologist recommended.
Alchimie Forever
Alchimie Forever was established by a dermatologist based in Switzerland. It is a cruelty free brand that makes skincare products with clean ingredients. Their current three best sellers are listed below.
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Dr. Botanicals
This brand makes vegan and natural skincare products including moisturisers and serums. Their current 3 best sellers are listed below.
- Cocoa Butter is a great skin soother and moisturizer
- Coconut oil is high in antioxidants and fatty acids that work to hydrate, restore, and protect the...
- Moisture holding properties smooth and hydrate the skin
- Restore the skin’s complexion and provide the skin with nutrients
- Increase the antioxidants and fatty acids in your skin
- artichoke is rich in vitamin c, one of the biggest contributors to healthy collagen development
- improved skin health due to a cocktail of superfoods aiding in the detoxification on your complexion
- cucumber extract leaves even the most sensitive skin feeling nourished, comfortable, and refreshed
- to help with uneven skin tone, prominent pores, skin health, and firmness of the skin due to the...
- firm and lift skin whilst also gently reducing excess oil in the skin, helping blemish-prone skin
- Moisture holding properties to smooth and hydrate the skin
- Pomegranate oil has natural protection abilities, protecting skin from UV and free-radical damage
- Antioxidant activity protects from free radical damage
- Vitamin C in pomegranate helps to even skin tone and reverse damage caused by sun exposure
- Increase the antioxidants and fatty acids in your skin
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
skyn ICELAND
skyn ICELAND is a brand that produces skincare products for stressed skin using pure and potent ingredients from Iceland. Their current 3 best sellers are listed below.
- COOLING under-eye gel patches to help firm, tone and de-puff delicate under-eye skin within 10...
- CONCENTRATED doses of soothing ingredients. Extensin helps to firm and tone, hexapeptide helps to...
- FOR YOU TO KNOW: Free of harsh chemicals: parabens, silicones, fragrance and dye. 100% vegan....
- INTENSIVELY helps firm, de-puff and reduce the premature wrinkling that accompanies a...
- PROTECTS against future damage. Cools, soothes and de-puffs under eye area. Helps restore tone and...
- INVIGORATING. A creamy, foaming cleanser that works to refresh, soothe and purify stressed skin....
- REFRESHING and soothing the skin while maintaining natural moisture and balance. Created for bumps,...
- GENTLE. Repair skin's natural lipid barrier and fight free radicals. Revitalize skin and fight...
- RESTORE skin’s natural balance and glow while cleansing and purifying the skin without leaving...
- "NATURAL. The rich creamy texture turns into a luscious lather when mixed with water. Safe for...
- FACE LIFT. All the essential masks that will help your eyes look rested, wrinkles look smoothed and...
- FIRM. From forehead furrows and crow’s feet to deep creases and smile lines it works intensively...
- TURN BACK THE CLOCK. Eyes look well rested, wrinkles are smoothed and smile lines are erased....
- RICH in Omega fatty acids, vitamins and potent antioxidants as well as pure molecular oxygen which...
- FOR YOU TO KNOW. Free of harsh chemicals: parabens, silicones, fragrance and dye. 100% vegan....
Last update on 2021-03-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Cetaphil Vs CeraVe FAQ
Which is better Cetaphil or CeraVe?
If you have especially dry skin then CeraVe would be the better choice for you, however if your skin is more sensitive then Cetaphil would be the right brand for you.
Whats the difference between CeraVe and Cetaphil?
Both brands are recommended by dermatologists and produce products for specific skin concerns. Very generally CeraVe are slightly more targeted towards dry skin types and Cetaphil are targeted towards sensitive skin types.
Do dermatologists recommend CeraVe?
Yes. All CeraVe products are developed with dermatologists. They are currently the number 1 dermatologist recommended skincare brand.
Do Dermatologists recommend Cetaphil?
Yes. Cetaphil is recommended by dermatologists because their products are non irritating, non-comedogenic, and mild enough for sensitive skin.