What is Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser?
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a mild, soap-free face and body cleanser that is said to hydrate and soothe the skin as it cleans. This cleanser is suitable for all skin types, but is claimed to be ideal for those with dry, sensitive skin. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is fragrance free and non-comedogenic (it won’t clog pores).
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What’s Inside Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser?
The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser formula is rather simple, containing only eight ingredients.
Fatty Alcohols
After water, the highest concentration ingredient is cetyl alcohol (fatty alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener), followed by propylene glycol (humectant). Another type of fatty alcohol in this cleanser is stearyl alcohol, which can moisturize the skin and make it feel softer.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
The key cleansing agent in the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which is strange since SLS is one of the most sensitizing cleansing agents used in skin care products.
In fact, SLS is used in scientific studies when the researchers want to establish whether or not an ingredient is problematic for skin. So we have to wonder: why would this ingredient be included in a cleanser that is meant for sensitive skin?
Despite its potential to cause skin irritation and sensitivity, sodium lauryl sulfate functions to clean the skin because it is a surfactant. A surfactant molecule contains one end that is hydrophilic (attracted to water) and one end that is lipophilic (attracted to oil). This allows surfactants to attract and suspend oils, dirt, and other impurities that have accumulated on the skin and wash them away.
We recommend Carrot & Stick The Gentle Hydrating Cleanser. Coconut-based surfactants gently, yet thoroughly cleanses skin, removing dirt and debris as well as makeup. It’s also formulated with natural plant extracts and natural hydrators, including hyaluronic acid, that won’t strip precious oils.
Parabens
Another problem with the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser formula is that it contains three types of parabens: methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.
Parabens have been linked to reproductive, immunological, neurological and skin irritation problems. Parabens penetrate the skin and hang around in our bodies. As preservatives, parabens keep the bacteria out of the products, but keep in mind there are clean alternatives.
We recommend products that are free from parabens, as well as sulfates, and formaldehyde. One brand is Carrot & Stick. We recommend Carrot & Stick The Moisturizer.
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How to use Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
You can use the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser with or without water. The brand recommends following these steps to use the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser:
- Directions for use without water: Apply a liberal amount of cleanser to the skin and rub gently. Remove excess with a soft cloth, leaving a thin film on the skin.
- Directions for use with water: Apply cleanser to the skin and rub gently. Rinse.
Where is Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser sold?
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is not sold on the brand’s website, but you can check their website for online sellers and physical locations that sell Cetaphil products. For example, you can buy this Cetaphil cleanser online from Amazon or at stores like Walmart, Target, Walgreens, Costco, and many more.
What is the Cetaphil return policy?
Since Cetaphil does not sell their products on their website, you will have to refer to the return policy of the retailer where you purchased your Cetaphil product.
Is Cetaphil cruelty free?
Cetaphil is not cruelty free because Cetaphil products are sold in China where animal testing is mandatory for all imported cosmetics.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser reviews
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser reviews on the brand’s website are overall positive, with the product receiving an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars after nearly 800 customer reviews. Consumers seem to be quite satisfied with the cost and the effects of this facial cleanser. One very positive review says, “This cleanser is a must have item in my bathroom. I recently had an allergic reaction to make up and this cleanser was the only thing I could use without stinging or burning. It’s very gentle and doesn’t dry skin out at all.”
However, there are quite a few negative Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser reviews. One issue for customers was that the cleanser doesn’t foam. Though it may not seem like an important concern, many consumers simply don’t trust a cleanser that doesn’t have strong foaming action. Many people have become very accustomed to the lather and foam associated with cleansing – so a product that doesn’t produce such lather simply feels ineffective.
Another reason for negative Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser reviews seems to be the watery consistency. It simply doesn’t feel pleasant to some individuals, and therefore doesn’t create a feeling that they’re really taking care of the skin. For example, one long term customer says, “I have been using Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser for over 35 years. It is NOT the same formula that I remember. The viscosity is not what it used to be. This once creamy and effective product has disappeared only to be replaced by a very watery substance that falls through my fingers.”
For some, the cleanser just didn’t seem to make a difference. These Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser reviews tend to express frustration with inability to find skin care products that are gentle enough for sensitive skin. Finally, there are some consumers that are concerned about the parabens in Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser.
What are some alternatives to Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser?
If you’re looking for hydrating skincare products for dry skin, we recommend Carrot & Stick. Carrot & Stick maximizes the use of powerful ingredients and minimizes the use of superficial ones, resulting in advanced skincare solutions that help promote healthy, more youthful-looking skin. We recommend this repair moisturizer.
