7 Best CeraVe Cleansers: Achieve Clear And Healthy Skin With These Top Picks

Utilize the goodness of Cerave’s best formulas to enhance your skin’s natural appearance.

Written by , Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Edited by , MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Aditi Naskar MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by , MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Last Updated on

Owning a clean, glowing, and hydrated skin is a blessing. While numerous beauty products in the market promise the same, few of them can truly work if you do not use a potent cleanser to get rid of impurities and oiliness that often make our skin appear dull. This is where the US skin care brand, CeraVe, comes into the picture! The brand offers several skin care products including creams, lotions, and beauty balms, but their cleansers are always the talk of the town. CeraVe cleansers are dermatologist-backed and contain essential ceramides that help restore your skin’s natural barrier. They also act as great exfoliators which help get rid of stubborn dead skin cells.

In this article, we bring you the best CeraVe cleansers that offer radiant skin. These products work wonders on all skin types and can be used daily without potential side effects.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Lightweight:CeraVe Hydrating Facial CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best Lathering:CeraVe Foaming Face CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best Luminous Glow:CeraVe Renewing SA CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best For pH Balance:CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best Oil-Absorbing Formula:CeraVe Acne Control CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best For Sensitive Skin:CeraVe Psoriasis CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best For Smooth Texture:CeraVe SA Smoothing CleanserPrice on Amazon

7 Best Cerave Cleansers For Effective And Gentle Skin Care

1. Best Lightweight:CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

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4.6
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser Image: Cerave

The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser offers deep moisturization to your skin. It also helps get rid of clogged impurities, stubborn makeup, and excess oil, while making your skin soft and supple. The formula contains hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin that retain the skin’s natural barrier while locking in moisture. It cleans the skin without over-stripping it and offers a gentle feel. This Cerave hydrating face wash is formulated with patented MVE technology that continuously releases moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin hydrated for a long time. If you want to know more about the product, take a look at this honest YouTube review.

Skin Type: Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.95 x 3.38 x 1.63 inches | Weight: 1.04 Pounds

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides, and Niacinamide

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Pros
  • Hydrating formula
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Non-greasy
  • Non-irritating
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Suitable for dry skin

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Cons
  • May irritate extremely sensitive skin.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 6,165 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

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While rinsing the cleanser off, pay special attention to the areas that often trap residues including your hairline, nose, and the area behind your ears.

2. Best Lathering:CeraVe Foaming Face Cleanser

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4.6
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser Image: Cerave

The CeraVe Foaming Face Cleanser offers a refreshing feel when applied. It washes away the excess oil, dirt, and stubborn makeup residues without leaving the skin tight or dry. The non-comedogenic cleanser is fit for daily use and does not trigger undesired side effects. The non-drying formula contains important ingredients such as hyaluronic acid that keeps the skin hydrated while catering to premature aging signs. Other valuable ingredients include niacinamide and ceramides that calm the skin and make it appear healthy while maintaining its natural barrier.

Skin Type: Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 1.21 Pounds

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, and Ceramides

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Pros
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Non-drying formula
  • Gentle ingredients
  • Controls sebum production
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dermatologist-developed

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Cons
  • Not suitable for sensitive skin.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 4,149 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

3. Best Luminous Glow:CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

The CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser clears accumulated dead cells while smoothing out your skin texture. It contains salicylic acid that acts as a gentle but effective exfoliator to get rid of dead cells and improve your skin’s natural glow. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid that restores the skin’s moisture balance. The niacinamide in the blend calms the skin while vitamin D offers antioxidant benefits. The non-irritating cleanser is suitable for acne-prone skin and can be used daily. Take a look at this YouTube video to know more about the product’s key features.

Skin Type: Normal skin | Product Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.46 x 6.75 inches | Weight: 10.4 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Hyaluronic acid, and Ceramides

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Pros
  • Natural ingredients
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Antioxidant protection
  • Ideal for acne-prone skin
  • Fragrance-free
  • Allergy-tested
  • Dermatologist-tested

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Cons
  • May cause itchiness on very dry skin.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 42,692 reviews claiming its efficacy.

4. Best For pH Balance:CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser

The CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser protects your skin from dirt, pollutants, and sun-related damage. It is a one-stop solution to wash away excessively clogged oil and long-wearing makeup remains without disturbing the skin’s natural barrier. The cleansing foam is enriched with patented MVE technology that keeps on releasing moisturizing ingredients for day-long hydration. It contains hyaluronic acid, amino acids, and ceramides that make the skin hydrated and improve its texture. The hyaluronic acid in this Cerave face wash caters to dark spots and patchiness while enhancing the skin’s stretchability. Amino acids retain moisture and combat free radical damage. The ceramides in the formula fill in the gaps between skin cells to lock in moisture and lock out impurities.

Skin Type: Dry, Normal

Key Ingredients: Amino acids, Hyaluronic acid, and Ceramides

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Pros
  • Moisturizing formula
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Fights free radicals
  • Fragrance-free

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Cons
  • Not suitable for combination skin.
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 14,587 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

5. Best Oil-Absorbing Formula:CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser

The CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser is enriched with salicylic acid which removes dead cells, reduces pore appearances, and treats acne. The non-comedogenic formula also contains hectorite clay which absorbs excess oil and shine. Niacinamide calms the skin while ceramides maintain the skin’s natural barrier. This Cerave facial cleanser is lightweight and gentle on the skin.

Skin Type: Oily, Acne Prone Skin | Product Dimensions: 1.33 x 2.79 x 6.77 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Hectorite clay, Niacinamide, Ceramides

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Pros
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Lightweight
  • Breathable formula
  • Offers gentle exfoliation
  • Minimizes excess shine
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Allergy-tested
  • Dermatologist-tested

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Cons
  • Not suitable for very sensitive skin.
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After using this cleanser, apply a hyaluronic acid- and vitamin C-based ultra-lightweight moisturizer to offer extra nourishment to oily and acne-prone skin.

6. Best For Sensitive Skin:CeraVe Psoriasis Cleanser

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4.3
CeraVe Psoriasis Cleanser Image: Cerave

The CeraVe Psoriasis Cleanser contains moisture-retaining ingredients that soothe and calm the skin. The 2% salicylic acid in the formula keeps pores clean and prevents future breakouts. Glycolic acid hydrates the skin while making it appear smoother. Lactic acid improves skin firmness and reduces dark spots. They also act as antimicrobial agents while exfoliating dead cells. This Cerave gentle cleanser contains niacinamide and ceramides which brighten the skin tone and improve the health of your existing skin cells.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Ceramides, Lactic acid, Glycolic acid, and Niacinamide

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Pros
  • Moisturizing formula
  • Anti-aging benefits
  • Prevents itchiness
  • Fragrance-free
  • Allergy-tested
  • Dermatologist-developed

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Cons
  • Very watery consistency

7. Best For Smooth Texture:CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser

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4.6

The CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser exfoliates the skin while smoothing out the texture. The formula minimizes oil, dirt, and dead cells while softening rough and bumpy skin. Salicylic acid protects the skin’s barrier while ceramides retain moisture. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide soften the skin and offer adequate hydration. The physical exfoliants-free cleanser calms irritated skin and keeps it away from allergies.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic acid

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Pros
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Non-irritating
  • Offers gentle exfoliation
  • Antioxidant-rich formula
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dermatologist-tested

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Cons
  • May cause flakiness

Cerave face washes exfoliate, soften, and smooth rough skin. The formulas restore the skin’s protective barrier while reducing excess moisture loss. As you are aware of the best CeraVe cleansers available, take a look at a few important things to consider before choosing the one that suits your skin and offers great results.

How To Choose The Right CeraVe Cleanser For Your Skin Type

  • Normal Skin

Select gentle formulas that maintain the natural oil balance of your skin. You can also choose cleansers with creamy consistencies that do not strip away any natural oils.

  • Oily Skin

Choose a foam-based or gel-based cleanser that reduces excess sebum. Opt for ingredients like tea tree oil and salicylic acid which prevent acne and control oil production.

  • Dry Skin

Opt for hydrating cleansers with hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Avoid using cleansers with alcohol and surfactants, which may further dry out the skin.

  • Combination Skin

Opt for mild, foaming cleansers that can address both the oilier and drier parts of your skin. Choose formulas with gentle exfoliants to remove excess oiliness. You should also opt for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides for added hydration.

  • Sensitive Skin

Opt for gentle formulas that do not contain any artificial fragrances or allergens. Use a cleanser with soothing ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile while avoiding harsh ingredients including dyes and sulfates.

While every CeraVe cleanser is enriched with skin-friendly formulations, there might be ingredients that are not suitable for your skin. You should know about the key ingredients in CeraVe cleansers in a detailed manner to avoid using formulas that are harmful to you. Take a look.

What Are The Key Ingredients In CeraVe Cleansers?

  1. Salicylic Acid:It reduces mild acne, exfoliates the skin, and minimizes pores. It works best on whiteheads, blackheads while preventing breakouts.
  2. Hyaluronic Acid:It offers anti-aging benefits and provides maximum hydration to the skin. It also heals wounds in the skin and reduces scarring.
  3. Ceramides:Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Ceramide EOP strengthen and restore the skin’s natural barrier. They protect the skin and improve the health of the current skin cells.
  4. Niacinamide:Vitamin B3 reduces redness, improves the appearance of pores, and enhances the skin’s barrier function. The ingredient also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin and heal sensitive patches.
  5. Glycerin:This humectant seals in moisture and keeps the skin hydrated and soft. It refreshes the skin’s surface while catering to the extremely dry parts.

These ingredients promote a healthy skin texture with a plumped-up look. However, choosing the right formula is one thing, and using a cleanser effectively is an entirely different skill set altogether! Take a look at the next section to understand how to use a CeraVe cleanser properly.

How To Use CeraVe Cleansers

Step 1: Wet your skin with lukewarm water.

Step 2: Massage the Cerave face cleanser gently on your skin in circular motions.

Step 3: Keep it for two to three minutes to ensure your skin has absorbed the essential ingredients.

Step 4: Rinse the cleanser thoroughly with lukewarm water and dry your face with a gentle towel.

Step 5: Carry on with your skin care regimen after your skin is completely dry.

The Bottom Line

The best CeraVe cleansers remove impurities and clogged oils while imparting a rich glow to your skin. Every cleanser from this brand improves skin breathability while treating issues like excessive acne and blemishes. While the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser has a non-comedogenic and non-greasy formula that effectively cleanses the skin while maintaining the natural moisture barrier, the CeraVe Foaming Face Cleanser refreshes the skin and helps reverse premature signs of aging. These products soothe your skin, get rid of inflammation, and act as amazing exfoliators. However, while purchasing a CeraVe cleanser for yourself, study the ingredients list thoroughly and steer clear of toxic formulas. Make sure that the formula you are opting for is ideal for your skin type.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Medha Deb, is a skincare enthusiast who enjoys writing about different skincare products and keeps herself up-to-date on popular skincare brands. She has curated this article on the best CeraVe cleansers after scrolling through several e-commerce sites and checking different customer reviews and expert recommendations. Medha’s list contains effective formulations that are safe for the skin and offer gentle moisturization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are CeraVe cleansers suitable for all skin types?

Yes, most CeraVe cleansers are suitable for all skin types including oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin types. However, check the ingredients list properly before committing to any cleanser from this brand.

How do CeraVe cleansers help in maintaining healthy skin?

CeraVe cleansers help get rid of oil, dirt, and impurities. They also make the skin breathable and enhance its overall health. These cleansers contain gentle ingredients that improve skin glow and offer adequate nourishment.

Can CeraVe cleansers be used for both the face and body?

While CeraVe cleansers are formulated for the face, they can be used on both face and body. They offer great results wherever applied.

Can CeraVe cleansers effectively remove makeup and impurities?

Yes, CeraVe cleansers are extremely effective in getting rid of all stubborn impurities, makeup residues, and clogged oil from your skin.

Are CeraVe cleansers non-comedogenic and fragrance-free?

Almost all CeraVe cleansers are non-comedogenic, that is, they do not block the skin pores. Most of them are also fragrance-free.

How often should I use CeraVe cleansers in my skin care routine?

CeraVe cleansers are very gentle on the skin. They can be used daily in the skin care routine without any unwanted side effects.

Are CeraVe cleansers dermatologist-tested and recommended?

Yes, all CeraVe cleansers are dermatologist-tested and recommended.

Are CeraVe cleansers safe for pregnancy?

Yes, CeraVe cleansers are dermatologist-tested and safe to use even during pregnancy. However, not every pregnancy is the same, so it is recommended to consult your personal doctor before committing to any product from this brand.

Are CeraVe cleansers good for acne?

Yes. CeraVe cleansers are helpful in minimizing acne, breakouts, and blemishes on your skin. The key ingredient in most cleansers from this brand, salicylic acid, prevents breakouts and reduces mild to moderate acne.

Are CeraVe cleansers water-based?

Yes, some CeraVe cleansers, especially the ones suitable for oily skin, are water-based.

Can CeraVe cleansers remove sunscreen?

Yes, CeraVe cleansers can remove sunscreen and other cream-based residues easily.

Can CeraVe cleansers cause breakouts?

No. CeraVe cleansers do not cause skin breakouts. On the contrary, they help treat breakouts, acne, and other skin care concerns.

Do CeraVe cleansers have salicylic acid?

Yes, many CeraVe cleansers contain salicylic acid. This ingredient helps clear acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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Aditi Naskar
Aditi NaskarAssociate Commerce Editor
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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