Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar 4.5 oz Nourishing Cleansing Bar For Dry Sensitive Skin
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This cleansing bar contains beneficial ingredients like Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Glycerin, which are gentle and moisturizing for sensitive skin. However, the presence of PEG-20 and synthetic masking fragrance raises concerns due to potential impurities and allergenic properties. The product is moderately processed, which impacts its overall rating.
Key ingredients 20
Sodium Cocoyl IsethionateGood
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is known for its gentle cleansing properties and is often used in products for sensitive skin. It helps to create a rich lather without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though some individuals may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides effective cleansing while maintaining skin moisture, making it suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Stearic AcidNeutral
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize products and improve texture. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it can cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product, contributing to a smooth application.
Sodium TallowateNeutral
Sodium Tallowate is a soap ingredient derived from animal fat, commonly used for its cleansing properties. It is effective in removing dirt and oils from the skin. However, it may not be suitable for vegan consumers.
Risks
It may cause dryness or irritation in some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides effective cleansing and is a traditional soap-making ingredient.
WaterNeutral
Water is a universal solvent used in many cosmetic and personal care products. It acts as a base and helps to dissolve other ingredients. It is essential for the formulation of most skincare products.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
It hydrates the skin and helps to deliver other active ingredients effectively.
Sodium CocoateNeutral
Sodium Cocoate is a soap ingredient derived from coconut oil, used for its cleansing properties. It helps to remove dirt and oils from the skin effectively. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
It may cause dryness in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides effective cleansing and is derived from natural coconut oil.
Sodium StearateNeutral
Sodium Stearate is a common soap ingredient used as a surfactant and emulsifier. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
It may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It contributes to the stability and texture of the product, ensuring a smooth application.
GlycerinNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in rare cases.
Benefits
It helps to maintain skin hydration and improve the skin's barrier function.
Sodium ChlorideNeutral
Sodium Chloride, or table salt, is used in cosmetics as a thickening agent and to improve product texture. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. It helps to enhance the viscosity of formulations.
Risks
In high concentrations, it may cause dryness or irritation.
Benefits
It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.
Butyl AvocadateNeutral
Butyl Avocadate is an ester derived from avocado oil, used for its emollient properties. It helps to soften and moisturize the skin. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides moisturizing benefits and helps to improve skin texture.
Sodium IsethionateNeutral
Sodium Isethionate is a surfactant used for its mild cleansing properties. It helps to create a creamy lather and is often used in products for sensitive skin. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing suitable for sensitive skin.
Sodium Isostearoyl LactylateNeutral
Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate is an emulsifier and conditioning agent used in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and feel of products. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and conditioning properties of the product.
Pentasodium PentetateNeutral
Pentasodium Pentetate is a chelating agent used to bind metal ions and improve product stability. It helps to prevent the degradation of cosmetic formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize formulations and extend product shelf life.
Sucrose CocoateNeutral
Sucrose Cocoate is an emulsifier and surfactant derived from sugar and coconut oil. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and application of the product.
Tetrasodium EtidronateNeutral
Tetrasodium Etidronate is a chelating agent used to bind metal ions and improve product stability. It helps to prevent the degradation of cosmetic formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize formulations and extend product shelf life.
Propyl GallateNeutral
Propyl Gallate is an antioxidant used to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils in cosmetic formulations. It helps to extend the shelf life of products. It is generally considered safe, though it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Risks
Potential for allergic reactions is a concern.
Benefits
It helps to prevent product spoilage and extend shelf life.
Titanium DioxideNeutral
Titanium Dioxide is a mineral used as a pigment and UV filter in cosmetics. It helps to provide sun protection and improve product opacity. It is generally considered safe, though inhalation of fine particles can be a concern.
Risks
Inhalation of fine particles can pose respiratory risks.
Benefits
It provides UV protection and improves product opacity.
Sodium Palm KernelateNeutral
Sodium Palm Kernelate is a soap ingredient derived from palm kernel oil, used for its cleansing properties. It helps to remove dirt and oils from the skin effectively. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
It may cause dryness in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides effective cleansing and is derived from natural palm kernel oil.
PEG-20Bad
PEG-20 is a polyethylene glycol compound used as an emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. However, it may be contaminated with harmful impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane.
Risks
Potential contamination with carcinogenic impurities is a concern.
Benefits
It improves the texture and application of the product.
Masking FragranceBad
Masking Fragrance is used to cover unpleasant odors in cosmetic formulations. It is often composed of synthetic fragrance compounds. These can cause allergic reactions and sensitivities in some individuals.
Risks
Potential for allergic reactions and skin sensitivities is a concern.
Benefits
It helps to improve the scent of the product.
PetrolatumVery Bad
Heavily flagged ingredient class under Scout's doctrine.
Risks
Potential contamination with PAHs is a concern if not properly refined.
Benefits
It provides excellent moisture retention and skin protection.
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