CeraVe provides an expansive collection of skincare merchandise, featuring a broad selection of cleansers, each engineered for specific skin types and problems. If you’re grappling with acne, then determining the right CeraVe cleanser for your skin may be a point of consideration. This guide will delve into the variety of CeraVe cleansers on the market to help you identify the best one aligned with your needs.
When it comes to choosing a cleanser for acne-prone skin, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for a product that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. You’ll also want to consider the active ingredients in the cleanser. Some ingredients, like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, are known for their acne-fighting properties.
CeraVe offers three cleansers that are specifically formulated for acne-prone skin: the Renewing SA Cleanser, the Foaming Facial Cleanser, and the Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Each of these cleansers contains different active ingredients and is designed to address different skin concerns. We’ve tested each of these cleansers and can confidently recommend the best option for your skin.
Best CeraVe Cleansers for Acne
We’ve researched and tested a variety of CeraVe cleansers to find the best options for those dealing with acne. Our top picks are effective at removing impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the best CeraVe cleansers for acne below.
1. CeraVe SA Cleanser
If you’re looking for a gentle exfoliating cleanser that helps with acne, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris, CeraVe SA Cleanser is a great option.
Pros
- Provides gentle exfoliation without harsh microbeads or grains.
- Contains 3 essential ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier.
- Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone, oily, and psoriasis-prone skin.
Cons
- May not be effective for severe acne.
- The bottle is quite large and may not be travel-friendly.
- Some users may find the formula too drying for their skin.
We’ve been using CeraVe SA Cleanser for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in the texture and clarity of our skin. The cleanser dispenses as a clear gel and transforms into a light, foaming face wash as you lather. It effectively removes dirt and oil while softening and renewing the skin.
What we love about this cleanser is that it contains salicylic acid, which is a gentle exfoliant that helps to unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which are known for their hydrating and moisture-replenishing properties. Our skin feels smoother, softer, and more hydrated after using this cleanser.
One thing to keep in mind is that this cleanser may not be effective for severe acne. If you have moderate to severe acne, you may need to use a stronger treatment in addition to this cleanser. We also found that the formula can be a bit drying, so it’s important to follow up with a moisturizer after using it.
Overall, we highly recommend CeraVe SA Cleanser for anyone looking for a gentle exfoliating cleanser that helps with acne, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris. It’s suitable for all skin types and contains effective ingredients like salicylic acid, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
2. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
If you’re looking for a gentle, yet effective cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin, CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Formulated with three essential ceramides that help restore and maintain skin’s natural protective barrier
- Contains hydrating Hyaluronic Acid to help retain skin’s natural moisture
- Gel-to-foam texture that gently refreshes and effectively removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with very dry skin
- The gel-to-foam texture may feel too thick for some users
- The pump dispenser may be prone to clogging
We’ve been using CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with how well it cleanses our skin without leaving it feeling dry or tight. The gel-to-foam texture feels luxurious and it effectively removes all traces of makeup and dirt. We appreciate that it’s fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
One thing to note is that if you have very dry skin, this cleanser may not be moisturizing enough for you. However, for those with oily or combination skin, it strikes a good balance between removing excess oil and maintaining the skin’s natural moisture. We also noticed that the pump dispenser can be prone to clogging, so be sure to clean it regularly to prevent any issues.
Overall, we would recommend CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for anyone looking for a gentle, yet effective cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin. It’s affordable, easy to use, and contains key ingredients that help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
3. CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
If you’re looking for a one-step face wash that gently removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup without stripping your skin’s natural moisture, then the CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser is perfect for you.
Pros
- The cream-to-foam formula is non-drying and thoroughly cleanses without leaving a tight, dry feeling.
- Contains hyaluronic acid and an amino acid complex to support skin’s natural moisturizing factors (NMF), known to attract and retain moisture.
- Suitable for normal to dry skin, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, allergy-tested, and pH balanced.
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with oily skin.
- Some users may find the formula too gentle and not effective enough for acne-prone skin.
- The large size of the bottle may not be convenient for travel.
We’ve been using the CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with how gentle and effective it is. The cream texture transforms into a rich foam as you lather it onto your skin, leaving it feeling clean and hydrated.
One of the things we love most about this cleanser is that it doesn’t strip our skin of its natural moisture. Instead, it leaves our skin feeling soft and supple, thanks to the hyaluronic acid and amino acid complex.
We also appreciate that this cleanser is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, allergy-tested, and pH balanced, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. However, if you have oily skin, you may find that this cleanser is not effective enough for controlling oil and preventing breakouts.
Overall, we highly recommend the CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser for those looking for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural moisture.
4. Cetaphil Gentle Salicylic Acid Cleanser
If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective cleanser for your sensitive, acne-prone skin, Cetaphil Salicylic Acid Cleanser is worth considering.
Pros
- This exfoliating face wash is designed to remove pore-clogging oil, impurities and makeup, making it a great choice for maintaining a clear complexion.
- The cream-to-lather formula is rich and low lather, and contains soothing aloe vera and antioxidant-infused white tea extract to gently deep clean without stripping or over-drying the skin.
- Cetaphil products are specially formulated to improve the resilience of your skin and defend against five signs of skin sensitivity: dryness, itchiness, roughness, tightness and a weakened skin barrier, making it a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin.
Cons
- Some users may find the formula too gentle and not effective enough in treating acne.
- The packaging may not be the most convenient for travel, as it’s a squeeze tube that may leak.
- While the cleanser is fragrance-free, it does have a slight chemical scent that some users may find unpleasant.
In our experience, Cetaphil Salicylic Acid Cleanser is a great option for those with sensitive skin who are looking for a gentle yet effective exfoliating face wash. The cream-to-lather formula is soothing and non-drying, and the addition of salicylic acid helps to minimize the appearance of pores and reduce excess oil. While it may not be the most effective at treating acne, it’s a great choice for maintaining a clear complexion and improving the overall health of your skin. If you’re looking for a dermatologist-recommended cleanser that’s gentle and effective, Cetaphil Salicylic Acid Cleanser is definitely worth trying.
5. PanOxyl Creamy Acne Wash – 4% Benzoyl Peroxide
If you are looking for a powerful yet gentle daily cleanser that can help you fight acne, then the PanOxyl Creamy Acne Wash might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- Clinically proven to contain benzoyl peroxide which is a proven first line defense treatment for clear skin
- Gentle enough for everyday use
- Cleans and unclogs pores to clear, treat and prevent acne
Cons
- May cause dryness
- Strong smell
- May bleach towels or clothing
This creamy wash is formulated with 4% benzoyl peroxide, which can help to kill acne-causing bacteria and remove excess oils. It is also pH balanced and contains 3 humectants and 4 emollients to combat dryness.
I have been using this product for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in my acne. It is gentle enough to use every day and does not irritate my skin. However, I did notice that it has a strong smell that I am not particularly fond of. Additionally, it may bleach towels or clothing, so be careful when using it.
Overall, I would recommend the PanOxyl Creamy Acne Wash to anyone who is looking for an effective and gentle daily cleanser to help fight acne. Just be aware of the potential for dryness and the strong smell.
6. CeraVe Resurfacing RETINOL Serum For Face with niacinamide
If you’re looking for a lightweight yet moisturizing retinol serum that helps even skin tone and texture, CeraVe Resurfacing RETINOL Serum For Face with niacinamide is a great option.
Pros
- Helps reduce the appearance of scars, marks, and pores
- Contains three essential ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
- Encapsulated retinol helps resurface the skin
Cons
- May cause discomfort during the first application
- Packaging feels a bit old
- Can burn dry cheeks if moisturizer is not applied in the morning
We’ve been using CeraVe Resurfacing RETINOL Serum For Face with niacinamide for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the results. The serum feels light and absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue. We’ve noticed a visible improvement in our skin’s texture and appearance, with age spots lightening and pores appearing smaller.
One thing to note is that the serum may cause discomfort during the first application, so it’s important to space out the applications until your skin adjusts. We’ve also noticed that the packaging feels a bit old, like it has been open, but this hasn’t affected the quality of the product.
Overall, we would recommend CeraVe Resurfacing RETINOL Serum For Face with niacinamide to anyone looking for a gentle, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic retinol serum that’s suitable for sensitive skin. Just be sure to apply moisturizer in the morning to avoid burning dry cheeks.
7. Proactiv Acne Cleanser
If you’re looking for an effective acne cleanser, Proactiv Cleanse is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 2.5% benzoyl peroxide formula is clinically proven to kill acne-causing bacteria, making it a powerful weapon in the fight against pimples.
- The tiny exfoliating beads help slough off dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean.
- Designed to be used daily, it’s a convenient and easy way to keep your skin looking its best.
Cons
- The scent is a bit medicinal, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
- While it’s effective, it’s also a bit pricey compared to some other acne cleansers on the market.
- Some users may find that it dries out their skin a bit, so it’s important to moisturize after using it.
In our experience, Proactiv Cleanse is a great choice for anyone struggling with acne. The benzoyl peroxide formula is powerful, yet gentle enough to use every day, and the exfoliating beads help keep your skin looking and feeling its best. While it may be a bit pricey, we think it’s worth the investment if you’re serious about getting rid of acne for good.
If you’re looking for an acne cleanser that really works, we highly recommend giving Proactiv Cleanse a try.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best Cerave cleanser for acne, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a product:
Ingredients
The first thing to look for is the ingredients list. Look for a cleanser that contains salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid. These ingredients are known for their acne-fighting properties and can help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts.
Skin Type
Consider your skin type when choosing a cleanser. If you have oily skin, you may want a foaming cleanser that can help to remove excess oil. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to look for a cream or lotion cleanser that is more gentle and moisturizing.
Texture
The texture of the cleanser can also make a difference. Foaming cleansers can be more effective at removing oil and dirt, but they can also be more drying. Cream or lotion cleansers may be more gentle, but they may not be as effective at removing impurities.
Packaging
Consider the packaging of the cleanser. Look for a product that comes in a pump or squeeze bottle, as these are more hygienic and can help to prevent contamination. Avoid cleansers that come in jars, as these can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the cleanser. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, there are affordable options available that can be just as effective as more expensive products. Look for a cleanser that fits your budget and meets your needs.
Overall, when choosing a Cerave cleanser for acne, it’s important to consider ingredients, skin type, texture, packaging, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a product that works for you and helps to keep your skin clear and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser?
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser is formulated with benzoyl peroxide to help clear acne and prevent new breakouts from forming. It also contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help retain skin’s natural moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.
Which CeraVe cleanser is recommended for combination skin with acne?
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is recommended for combination skin with acne. It effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. It also contains ceramides to help restore the skin barrier.
What are the differences between CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser and SA Cleanser?
CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser contains benzoyl peroxide to help clear acne and prevent new breakouts from forming, while CeraVe SA Cleanser contains salicylic acid to help exfoliate and smooth rough skin. Both cleansers also contain ceramides to help restore the skin barrier.
Does CeraVe face wash with salicylic acid help with acne?
Yes, CeraVe face wash with salicylic acid can help with acne by exfoliating and unclogging pores. It also contains ceramides to help restore the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Can CeraVe Acne Control Gel be used in conjunction with other acne treatments?
Yes, CeraVe Acne Control Gel can be used in conjunction with other acne treatments. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using multiple acne treatments at the same time.
How long does it take to see results from using CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser?
Results may vary, but it is recommended to use CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser consistently for at least 4 weeks to see improvement in acne-prone skin.
