Cetaphil Hydrating Moisturizing Lotion for All Skin Types Sensitive Skin 16 oz
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This moisturizer contains beneficial ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol, niacinamide, and avocado oil, which provide hydration, improve skin texture, and offer antioxidant protection. The inclusion of natural oils like avocado and sunflower seed oil enhances its moisturizing properties without the use of harsh chemicals. The product is minimally processed and free from major harmful additives, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Key ingredients 16
PanthenolVery Good
Panthenol is a provitamin of B5 that acts as a moisturizer and skin conditioner. It helps to improve skin hydration and elasticity. It is well-tolerated and beneficial for most skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Panthenol enhances skin barrier function and promotes healing.
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) OilVery Good
Avocado Oil is a natural oil rich in fatty acids and vitamins, providing deep moisturization and nourishment to the skin. It is known for its soothing and regenerative properties. It is highly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in individuals with avocado allergies.
Benefits
It deeply moisturizes and nourishes the skin, improving its texture and elasticity.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilVery Good
Sunflower Seed Oil is a natural oil rich in linoleic acid and Vitamin E, providing moisturizing and antioxidant benefits. It helps to maintain the skin's natural barrier and prevent moisture loss. It is suitable for all skin types and is well-tolerated.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in individuals with sunflower allergies.
Benefits
It moisturizes and protects the skin, enhancing its barrier function.
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. It is considered safe and beneficial for most skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Glycerin helps maintain skin hydration and improves skin barrier function.
NiacinamideGood
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that offers multiple skin benefits, including improving skin tone and texture. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. It is suitable for all skin types and is highly regarded in skincare.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though high concentrations may cause irritation.
Benefits
Niacinamide helps reduce redness, improve skin elasticity, and minimize pores.
Tocopheryl AcetateGood
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E that acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage. It helps to moisturize and soothe the skin. It is widely used in skincare for its protective properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and helps to maintain skin health.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It helps in the application and absorption of the product. It does not provide direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps in hydrating the skin by acting as a vehicle for other moisturizing ingredients.
Isopropyl PalmitateNeutral
Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin. It is used to enhance the texture of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or acne in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides a smooth application and helps to lock in moisture.
Cetearyl AlcoholNeutral
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize and improve the texture of the product. It is not drying like other alcohols and is generally safe for skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to soften the skin and improve the product's consistency.
Ceteareth-20Neutral
Ceteareth-20 is an emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients. It is commonly used in lotions and creams. 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 to create a stable and uniform product texture.
PantolactoneNeutral
Pantolactone is a conditioning agent used to enhance the texture and feel of cosmetic products. It helps to improve the stability and performance of the formulation. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with pantolactone.
Benefits
It improves the texture and stability of the product.
Glyceryl StearateNeutral
Glyceryl Stearate is an emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients. It also acts as a lubricant on the skin's surface, giving it a soft and smooth appearance. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize the product and improve its texture.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic products and acts as a mild exfoliant. It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the formulation. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to balance the pH and improve the product's performance.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause breakouts in acne-prone skin.
Benefits
It provides a smooth application and helps to lock in moisture.
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 very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and prevent spoilage.
Benzyl AlcoholBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and enhance its texture.
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