Cerave vs Cetaphil – What’s the Difference

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 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

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.

What’s the Difference Between Cetaphil and CeraVe?

I have researched and tested out the whole range of CeraVe and Cetaphil products. This includes cleansers, moisturisers, lotions, eye creams, foot creams and night creams.

When comparing the products I looked at the ingredient lists, texture and consistency of the products, and how they performed on my skin. I hope you find this article helpful in finding the right product for your own skin.

Before we get into the product comparison, you should know that I found that the ingredient lists between CeraVe and Cetaphil products to be very different. This may help you decide which product is better suited to you.

CeraVe put ceramides in all of their products which are designed to gradually release throughout the day. These ceramides help to restore and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. CeraVe’s formulations are also slightly more advanced compared to Cetaphil’s since they are a newer brand, and are using more modern technology.

Cetaphil formulas on the other hand tend to be more minimalist compared with CeraVe. They have very basic ingredients with nothing more added. This may be preferable for people who suffer from allergies who want to avoid using complicated formulations on their skin.

Both CeraVe and Cetaphil have won awards for their products, and both are non-irritating and fragrance-free.

Now, let’s get onto the comparison…

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 tested out and researched the different cleansers available to determine which is better out of 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 time moisturising the skin and protecting the skin’s natural barrier.

When I tested these two products I noticed that the CeraVe cleanser has a thicker consistency compared to the Cetaphil cleanser which is very watery. The photograph below shows the difference in texture between the two.

Unlike the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, which must always be washed off with water, the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser can be used both with or without water. I’ve created a separate post which contains a video demonstration showing how to use the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser without water.

My own skin is very dry and I found that both of these cleansers did a good job at cleaning my skin without leaving it feeling stripped or uncomfortable. Despite the Cetaphil cleanser being more watery than the CeraVe cleanser, they didn’t feel any different when I washed my face.

Best Option for Very Dry or Dehydrated Skin

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Look Fantastic

See my full review and video of the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

If your skin is extremely dry or dehydrated, the CeraVe cleanser is the better choice in my opinion. It is packed with moisturising and hydrating ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin, which the Cetaphil cleanser does not contain.

The cleansing agent in this product (PEG 40) is also more gentle than the cleansing agent in the Cetaphil cleanser (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate), and won’t strip the skin of its natural oils.

As with all CeraVe products, this cleanser contains CeraVe’s patented three essential ceramides which work to keep 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

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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.

Although this cleanser contains Sodium Lauryl Sulphate which is quite a drying cleansing agent, I did not find that it dried my skin out. My own skin is extremely dry and sensitive and I found this cleanser to be very effective and gentle.

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

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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

Available at: Amazon | Boots | FeelUnique

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 

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Cetaphil Cleansers Comparison Table

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Related: CeraVe Foaming vs Hydrating Cleanser – What’s the Difference?

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 Moisturizing Cream

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 recommended by dermatologists to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier.  They can either be used as facial moisturizers or as a body lotion.

Best for Extremely Dry Skin

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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 and helps to protect the skin barrier.

Best for Sensitive Skin

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

Available at: Amazon

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 Moisturizing Lotion

CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion vs Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

Both CeraVe and Cetaphil make a lotion that’s a more lightweight option to their cream. As with the creams, both can either be used as facial or body moisturizers. The major difference is the texture of each product and a slight difference in ingredients.

If you have acne-prone skin you may want to choose one of the lotions instead of the creams. This is become both the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream list petrolatum (petroleum jelly) as one of their active ingredients.

Petroleum jelly may cause a flare up of acne in sensitive individuals. Both CeraVe and Cetaphil lotions on the other hand are completely oil free, and non-comedogenic.

Best for Dry and Dehydrated Skin

CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

See my Full Review and Video of the CeraVe Moisturising Lotion

The CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion is designed for dry to very dry skin. It has a lighter texture than the cream and can be used on the entire body. This lotion is easy to spread across the skin, and a little goes a long way so one bottle will last you a long time. As with all CeraVe products, the lotion contains three ceramides which protect the skin barrier (Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Ceramide EOP).

It should be noted that CeraVe make two lotions: the CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion and the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion. The main difference is the Daily Moisturizing Lotion is for normal to dry skin, and the Moisturizing Lotion is for dry to very dry skin. They are similar products and both contain hyaluronic acid, which means they help to hydrate and moisturise dry and dehydrated skin.

Best for Dry and Sensitive Skin

Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

The Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion is marketed for all skin types however it’s particularly good for sensitive skin. This is because the formula contains macadamia oil which is anti-inflammatory.

Macadamia oil is rich in fatty acids, Vitamin E and squalene which helps to nourish and moisturise the skin. The oil prevents redness, irritation and reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions. If you have dry, sensitive or normal skin and want a simple lotion to use after a shower, this would be an excellent choice.

Related: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream vs Lotion – What’s the Difference?

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

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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

The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 25 is available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

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

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

The Cetaphil Rich Night Cream is designed for dry and sensitive skin. It is an extremely rich and nourishing formula which contains natural ingredients such as sweet almond oil which retain moisture in the skin. Sweet almond oil contains fatty acids which protect and maintain the skin barrier and make the skin look plumper and younger. The product also contains cetearyl alcohol which is an emollient and effective at soothing and healing dry 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. The ingredient list is much shorter than with the CeraVe night cream since the main aim of Cetaphil products is to be as gentle as possible so not to cause skin irritation. If you suffer from itchy skin this would be the right night cream for you.

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

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Cetaphil Day Moisturizers Comparison Table

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Night Moisturziers Comparison Table

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

See my full review and video of the CeraVe Eye Repair Cream here.

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best for Brightening

Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

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

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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 HydroSensitiv^TM 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

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Vitamin C Serum

CeraVe Vitamin C Serum

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Gel Oil

CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best for Oily Acne Prone Skin

Cetaphil Oil Absorbing Moisturizer

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.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

CeraVe Acne Skincare Routine

CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream

Available at: Amazon | Boots | Superdrug

One product that is unique to CeraVe, and worth mentioning is their SA Smoothing Cream. It contains both hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid, so helps to clear out the skin pores whilst keeping the skin hydrated.

This is a great option is you have back acne or bumps on your upper arms. The cream helps to gently smooth the surface of the skin and prevent future blemishes and breakouts. This is a body moisturizer rather than a facial moisturizer.

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Related: 5 Best CeraVe Products for Acne that will Clear Your Skin

Products for the CeraVe Skincare Routine for Acne

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Cetaphil Acne Skincare Routine

Products for the Cetaphil Skincare Routine for Acne

Last update on 2025-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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 2025-06-17 / 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

Since animal testing is required on all cosmetic products in China both CeraVe and Cetaphil must have been tested on animals.

Read more about whether CeraVe is cruelty free and vegan

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 2025-06-03 / 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.

Last update on 2025-06-03 / 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.

Last update on 2025-06-03 / 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. 

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POSTS FROM OTHER BEAUTY BLOGGERS

If you found this comparison between CeraVe vs Cetaphil helpful, you may enjoy the following posts from beauty bloggers that I follow and trust.

RUTH CRILLY

• Review of the CeraVe Moisturising Lotion
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• Recommended Products for Sensitive Skin
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REALLY REE

• CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser & Cream for Bumpy Skin
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• CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser Review

BRITISH BEAUTY BLOGGER

• Cetaphil Body Mousse
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• CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

This post was a Comparison Between CeraVe vs Cetaphil

Thank you for reading my comparison between CeraVe and Cetaphil. I hope this post helped you find the right product for your skin. If you have tried any of these products out please leave me a comment below and let me know how you got on!