Menu

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more ›

Best CeraVe Facial Cleansers

Discover CeraVe Facial Cleansers, dermatologist-developed formulas with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for all skin types. Gentle, non-drying options for oily, dry, and acne-prone skin.

8 products

Select a Product

Click on a product from the list to view its details.

PRIME

ProductReviews.org score rating is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the ProductReviews.org tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. We encourage you to write a review of your experiences with these products. Learn more »
Last update on . Affiliate links, prices, images, product titles, and highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Pros

Cons

Key Features

User Reviews

Your review will be visible after approval.

Loading reviews...
CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser 2% Salicylic Acid with Niacinamide, Ceramides & Clay | Gentle Foaming Face Wash Clears Acne, Blackheads & Pores, 16oz Fragrance-Free

CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser is a gel-to-foam face wash with 2% salicylic acid, purifying clay, niacinamide, and ceramides that removes excess oil, unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, and prevents breakouts without disrupting the skin barrier. Buy it if you have acne-prone skin needing a gentle, dermatologist-developed daily cleanser.

  • Clears acne and blackheads while preventing new breakouts with potent 2% salicylic acid
  • Absorbs excess oil and minimizes shine using purifying hectorite clay for a matte finish
  • Restores and strengthens skin's natural barrier with three essential ceramides to avoid dryness
  • Calms irritated skin and reduces redness thanks to soothing niacinamide
  • Transforms from gel to rich foam for deep cleansing without stripping moisture

Effectively treats and prevents acne without drying skin. Oil-absorbing technology reduces shine and improves pore appearance. Hydrating ceramides maintain skin barrier for long-term health.

Salicylic acid may cause mild irritation for very sensitive skin initially. Requires sunscreen application afterward if heading outdoors. Large 16oz size less ideal for travel or trial use.

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser for Dry Skin: Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides & Glycerin - National Eczema Certified, 4.7/5 Stars (129K+ Reviews)

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a non-foaming, lotion-like face wash for normal to dry skin, infused with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin. It cleanses without stripping moisture, provides 24-hour hydration, and restores the skin barrier—ideal for eczema-prone or sensitive dry skin, backed by 4.7/5 from 129,357 reviews.

  • Cleanses deeply without stripping natural moisture for all-day hydrated skin
  • Restores skin's protective barrier with 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)
  • Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture, preventing tightness and dryness
  • National Eczema Association certified—gentle for sensitive, eczema-prone skin
  • Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula suits normal to very dry skin types

Exceptional hydration from hyaluronic acid and ceramides, 4.7/5 rating from 129K reviews. Non-drying, non-irritating—perfect for dry, sensitive, or eczema skin. Removes dirt, oil, and makeup without tightness or residue.

Non-foaming texture may disappoint users who prefer lathering cleansers. Creamy consistency might feel heavy or require more product for oily areas. Targeted for dry skin—not ideal for very oily or acne-prone types alone.

CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser 4% Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash | Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides for Gentle Acne Treatment

CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser is a dermatologist-developed face wash with 4% benzoyl peroxide that clears acne, blackheads, and pimples while ceramides and hyaluronic acid protect the skin barrier. Buy it if you have acne-prone skin needing a gentle, hydrating daily cleanser.

  • Clears acne, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads with 4% benzoyl peroxide penetrating pores for fast results
  • Transforms from cream to rich foam for deep cleansing without stripping essential moisture
  • Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide hydrate and calm skin, reducing irritation during treatment
  • Three essential ceramides restore and strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier
  • Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula ideal for sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin types

Gentle yet powerful acne treatment that maintains skin hydration. Non-irritating, suitable for daily AM/PM use on various skin types. Restores skin barrier to promote healing without over-drying.

May cause initial dryness or peeling; start with once-daily use. Requires sunscreen application afterward if going outside. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics or hair.

CeraVe Renewing SA Salicylic Acid Cleanser 16oz: Gentle BHA Exfoliating Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides - Smooths Rough Skin, Fragrance-Free

CeraVe Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser is a foaming BHA face wash that gently exfoliates with salicylic acid while hydrating via hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Buy it if you have acne-prone, rough, bumpy, or psoriasis-prone skin needing smooth, non-irritated results without drying.

  • Gently exfoliates dead skin cells with salicylic acid for smoother, brighter skin without harsh scrubs
  • Hydrates and retains moisture using hyaluronic acid to prevent dryness post-cleanse
  • Calms irritation and redness with niacinamide for soothed, comfortable skin
  • Restores skin's natural barrier with 3 essential ceramides to lock in hydration and block irritants
  • Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formula suits acne-prone, sensitive, and rough skin types

Effective chemical exfoliation that's gentler than physical scrubs. Multi-tasking ingredients hydrate, calm, and barrier-repair simultaneously. Suitable for diverse skin concerns like acne, bumps, and dryness.

Exfoliation may increase sun sensitivity, requiring SPF follow-up. Best limited to 1-2x weekly for very sensitive skin to avoid irritation. Foaming gel texture might feel too light for those preferring creamy cleansers.

CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin | Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Niacinamide | Fragrance-Free Non-Drying Face Wash, 19oz

CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gel-to-foam daily face wash developed with dermatologists for normal to oily skin, featuring ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to remove excess oil and makeup without disrupting the skin barrier. Its standout non-drying, non-irritating formula earns a 4.8/5 rating from 99,400 reviews, making it ideal for those with oily skin seeking gentle oil control.

  • Gently foams to deep-clean excess oil and makeup without tightness or dryness
  • Restores skin's natural barrier using three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)
  • Hydrates surface with hyaluronic acid to retain moisture all day
  • Calms and balances skin with niacinamide for reduced irritation
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic for sensitive oily skin

Exceptional 4.8/5 rating from 99,400+ reviews proves real-world effectiveness. Non-stripping cleanse maintains skin barrier for healthier, refreshed feel. Key ingredients like ceramides and HA deliver hydration without greasiness.

Best for normal to oily skin; may not hydrate very dry skin enough. Gel-to-foam texture requires lathering, not instant foam. Large 19oz pump bottle is bulky for travel.

CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser: Makeup Remover Face Wash for Dry Skin with Hyaluronic Acid & Ceramides, 19oz Fragrance-Free

CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser is a dermatologist-developed face wash that starts as a cream and foams to gently remove makeup, oil, and dirt while hydrating with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and amino acids. Perfect for normal to dry or sensitive skin seeking non-drying cleansing.

  • Transforms from rich cream to soft foam for gentle, effective cleansing without drying skin
  • Removes makeup, oil, dirt, and sunscreen in one step while locking in 24-hour hydration
  • Restores skin barrier with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) naturally found in skin
  • Boosts moisture retention using hyaluronic acid and amino acids to support skin's NMF
  • Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and pH-balanced for sensitive, normal to dry skin

Hydrates while cleansing, preventing tight or dry feeling post-wash. Multi-tasking: cleanses face, removes eye makeup, and maintains skin barrier. Soap-free and paraben-free formula suits sensitive skin types.

Formulated for normal to dry skin, less ideal for oily or acne-prone types. Creamy dispense may feel thick for those preferring lightweight gels. Lacks fragrance, which some users might miss for a spa-like experience.

CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin: Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides & Niacinamide | Fragrance-Free Non-Drying Face Wash, 16oz

CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gel-to-foam wash developed with dermatologists that removes excess oil and makeup while preserving the skin barrier with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. It's ideal for normal to oily skin types needing a non-drying, non-irritating daily cleanser.

  • Gently removes excess oil and makeup without stripping or drying skin
  • Restores and strengthens skin's natural barrier with three essential ceramides
  • Hydrates skin surface using hyaluronic acid to retain moisture
  • Calms and soothes skin with niacinamide for a refreshed feel
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic for irritation-free use

Effective oil control without tightness or dryness. Key ingredients like ceramides, HA, and niacinamide support skin health. Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive, oily skin.

Best for normal to oily skin—not ideal for very dry types. Gel-to-foam texture may require more product for heavy lathering. Lacks moisturizing cream base for extra hydration needs.

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser for Dry Skin - Hyaluronic Acid & Ceramides Face Wash, Non-Drying, Eczema Certified, 4.7/5 Stars

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a non-foaming, lotion-like face wash for normal to dry skin, infused with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin. It cleanses without stripping moisture, provides 24-hour hydration, and is certified by the National Eczema Association—perfect for dry or eczema-prone skin.

  • Delivers 24-hour hydration with MVE Technology for lasting moisture without greasiness
  • Restores skin's natural barrier using three essential ceramides to lock in hydration and block impurities
  • Gently cleanses dry, sensitive skin without tightness or stripping, ideal for eczema sufferers
  • Removes dirt, oil, and light makeup while retaining skin's natural moisture balance
  • Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula accepted by National Eczema Association

Exceptional 4.7/5 rating from over 129,000 reviews confirms real-user satisfaction. Provides deep hydration and barrier repair without drying or irritating sensitive skin. Certified safe for eczema, fragrance-free and paraben-free for peace of mind.

Non-foaming texture may feel less 'cleansing' to those preferring sudsy formulas. Best for normal to dry skin only—not ideal for oily or acne-prone types. Lotion consistency might require more product for heavy makeup removal.

Welcome to our guide on CeraVe Facial Cleansers, where gentle yet effective cleansing meets science-backed skincare. This collection features eight standout products tailored to oily, dry, normal, and acne-prone skin, all infused with essential ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and niacinamide for soothing. Whether you're battling excess oil, dryness, or breakouts, these fragrance-free, non-comedogenic washes deliver clean, balanced skin without stripping natural moisture—perfect for daily routines endorsed by dermatologists.

Why Choose CeraVe Facial Cleansers?

CeraVe stands out in the crowded skin care market for its collaboration with dermatologists, focusing on three essential ceramides that mimic the skin's natural lipids. Unlike harsher cleansers, these formulas maintain pH balance and avoid irritants like parabens and fragrances. They're ideal for sensitive skin, eczema, and rosacea, earning seals like the National Eczema Association certification. Shoppers love how they prep skin for serums and moisturizers, fitting seamlessly into any regimen within our broader facial cleansers category.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a facial cleanser, match it to your skin type and concerns:

  • Skin Type: Foaming options control oil without drying; cream-to-foam or lotion-based hydrate dry skin.
  • Active Ingredients: Look for salicylic acid (BHA) for exfoliation and acne, benzoyl peroxide for blemish control, or glycerin for moisture.
  • Texture & Feel: Foaming rinses clean for oily skin; richer creams suit normal-to-dry types.
  • Sensitivity: All are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, minimizing irritation.

These cleansers excel in double-cleansing routines, removing makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while preserving the microbiome.

Comparing CeraVe Cleansers: Find Your Match

With eight variants, choosing is simple by skin needs:

For Oily Skin

The Foaming Facial Cleanser (available in 16oz and 19oz) tackles shine with oil-absorbing tech, niacinamide, and ceramides. It lathers richly but rinses clean, preventing rebound oiliness—great for combination skin too.

For Dry or Normal Skin

Hydrating Facial Cleanser and Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser nourish with hyaluronic acid and glycerin. The lotion-style hydrator is eczema-certified, while the cream-to-foam removes makeup gently, ideal for mature or winter-dry skin. Both leave a soft, plump feel.

For Acne-Prone Skin

Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser (2% BHA) smooths texture and unclogs pores without drying. Acne Control Cleanser adds clay for oil control, while Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser packs 4% benzoyl peroxide for active breakouts. Start with these if blackheads or pimples persist.

Not sure if CeraVe fits? Compare with trusted alternatives like Cetaphil Facial Cleansers for basics or Neutrogena Facial Cleansers for stronger actives in our related collections.

How to Incorporate into Your Routine

Morning: Use a foaming or acne cleanser to refresh. Evening: Opt for hydrating or cream-to-foam to remove the day's buildup. Massage for 60 seconds, rinse with lukewarm water, and follow with toner. Pair with CeraVe moisturizers for barrier repair. For broader options, explore our cleansers or face care sections.

FAQ

Which CeraVe cleanser is best for oily skin?

The Foaming Facial Cleanser with niacinamide controls oil while ceramides prevent dryness. Upgrade to the 19oz for value if you use it daily.

Are CeraVe cleansers suitable for sensitive or eczema-prone skin?

Yes, the Hydrating Facial Cleanser is National Eczema Association certified, fragrance-free, and gentle for barriers compromised by conditions like eczema.

How do CeraVe cleansers compare to Cetaphil or Olay?

CeraVe emphasizes ceramide restoration for long-term barrier health, outperforming basic soaps like Cetaphil. For anti-aging, check Olay Facial Cleansers; CeraVe shines in hydration and acne.

Can I use acne cleansers daily?

Yes, the 2% salicylic or 4% benzoyl peroxide formulas are gentle for daily use, but patch-test and moisturize after to avoid irritation.

What's the difference between foaming and hydrating cleansers?

Foaming suits oily skin for deep clean; hydrating uses richer textures for dry skin, both maintaining moisture with hyaluronic acid.