CETAPHIL Advanced Relief Lotion with Shea Butter, 20oz, For Dry, Sensitive Skin, 48-Hr Moisture, Restores Skin Barrier, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance Free, Doctor Recommended Sensitive Skincare Brand
Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
Cetaphil Advanced Relief Lotion contains beneficial ingredients like shea butter, sunflower seed oil, and niacinamide, which are known for their moisturizing and skin-soothing properties. However, the presence of synthetic emulsifiers and preservatives, such as Ceteareth-20 and sodium benzoate, along with its processed nature, slightly reduces its overall rating. The product is mostly safe but not entirely free from synthetic components, which impacts its score.
Key ingredients 18
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilVery Good
Sunflower seed oil is a natural oil rich in essential fatty acids. It is known for its emollient properties and ability to restore the skin barrier. It is beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause allergic reactions in rare cases.
Benefits
It helps nourish and moisturize the skin, improving its barrier function.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterVery Good
Shea Butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree. It is known for its rich emollient properties and ability to deeply moisturize the skin. It is beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause allergic reactions in individuals with nut allergies.
Benefits
It helps nourish and hydrate the skin, improving its elasticity.
PanthenolVery Good
Panthenol is a provitamin of B5 known for its moisturizing and soothing properties. It helps improve skin hydration and elasticity. It is beneficial for maintaining healthy skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with panthenol.
Benefits
It helps soothe and moisturize the skin, promoting healing.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It is widely used in skincare products for its hydrating properties. It helps maintain the skin's moisture balance.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it can be sticky.
Benefits
Glycerin helps keep the skin hydrated and soft.
NiacinamideGood
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 known for its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. It helps improve skin texture and tone. It is beneficial for reducing redness and irritation.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps improve skin barrier function and reduce signs of aging.
Tocopheryl AcetateGood
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E used for its antioxidant properties. It helps protect the skin from free radical damage. It is beneficial for maintaining healthy skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps nourish and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Sodium PCAGood
Sodium PCA is a natural component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor. It helps attract moisture to the skin, improving hydration. It is beneficial for maintaining skin moisture balance.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with Sodium PCA.
Benefits
It helps keep the skin hydrated and supple.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the lotion. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps hydrate the skin by providing moisture.
Isopropyl PalmitateNeutral
Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient that helps improve the texture of the skin. It is used to enhance the spreadability of lotions. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
It may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps make the skin feel smooth and soft.
Cetearyl AlcoholNeutral
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener. It helps stabilize and thicken formulations. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps improve the texture and consistency of the lotion.
Ceteareth-20Neutral
Ceteareth-20 is an emulsifier that helps blend oil and water components. It is commonly used in lotions to ensure a smooth texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a potential risk of contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of ethoxylation.
Benefits
It helps maintain the stability and consistency of the product.
PantolactoneNeutral
Pantolactone is a humectant that helps retain moisture in the skin. It is used to enhance the moisturizing properties of skincare products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with Pantolactone.
Benefits
It helps improve skin hydration and texture.
Glyceryl StearateNeutral
Glyceryl Stearate is an emulsifier that helps blend oil and water components. It is used to stabilize and thicken formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps improve the texture and consistency of the lotion.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It helps maintain the stability and effectiveness of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps ensure the product remains effective and stable.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause build-up on the skin.
Benefits
It helps create a silky, smooth feel on the skin.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps maintain the stability and consistency of the product.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps keep the product safe and free from harmful microorganisms.
Potassium SorbateBad
Synthetic preservative — flagged in daily-use products.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps maintain the product's safety and stability.
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