Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser with Glycerin - 8 fl oz
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This facial cleanser contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin, panthenol, and tocopheryl acetate, which provide moisturizing and antioxidant benefits. However, the presence of phenoxyethanol, a preservative that can be irritating, and other synthetic additives slightly lowers its safety profile. The product is moderately processed with a mix of natural and synthetic components, resulting in a balanced score.
Key ingredients 10
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)Very Good
Panthenol is a form of Vitamin B5 that acts as a moisturizer and skin conditioning agent. It helps to improve skin hydration and elasticity.
Risks
Panthenol is generally safe, but in rare cases, it may cause mild irritation.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is widely used in skincare for its moisturizing properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very rare cases.
Benefits
Glycerin helps to maintain skin hydration and improve skin barrier function.
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)Good
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E that acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage. It also has moisturizing properties.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and helps to moisturize and soothe the skin.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It helps in forming the base of the product. It does not provide direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no known risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
Water helps in dissolving other ingredients and provides a medium for them to be applied to the skin.
Cocamidopropyl BetaineNeutral
Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a surfactant derived from coconut oil and is used to help cleanse the skin. It is considered milder than other surfactants like SLS.
Risks
It may cause irritation in some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in cleansing the skin by removing dirt and oil without being too harsh.
Polysorbate 20Neutral
Polysorbate 20 is an emulsifier that helps to mix oil and water-based ingredients. It is commonly used in cosmetics for its stabilizing properties.
Risks
It may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize formulations and improve the texture of the product.
Polyquaternium-10Neutral
Polyquaternium-10 is a conditioning agent that helps to improve the texture and feel of the skin. It is often used in hair and skin care products.
Risks
It is generally considered safe, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides conditioning benefits, making the skin feel smoother and softer.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic products. It can also act as a mild exfoliant and antioxidant.
Risks
In high concentrations, it may cause skin irritation or sensitivity.
Benefits
It helps to maintain the stability of the product and can provide mild exfoliating benefits.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
High concentrations can cause skin irritation, but it is typically used in safe amounts.
Benefits
It helps to extend the shelf life of the product by preventing microbial contamination.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent bacterial growth in cosmetics. It is effective but can be irritating to the skin and eyes.
Risks
It may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product by preventing microbial contamination.
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