Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser (20 oz. 2 pk.)
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This facial cleanser contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin, panthenol, and niacinamide, which are known for their moisturizing and soothing properties. However, the presence of masking fragrance, which can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, detracts from its overall safety profile. Additionally, the inclusion of acrylates, which are synthetic polymers, indicates a moderate level of processing.
Key ingredients 13
PanthenolVery Good
Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is a moisturizing agent that helps improve skin hydration and elasticity. It is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for sensitive skin. It supports skin barrier function and promotes healing.
Risks
Rarely, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
Enhances skin hydration, soothes irritation, and supports skin healing.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is well-tolerated by most skin types and is a common ingredient in skincare products. Its moisturizing properties make it beneficial for maintaining skin hydration.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Glycerin helps to maintain skin hydration by attracting moisture.
NiacinamideGood
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that offers multiple skin benefits, including improving skin tone and texture. It helps reduce inflammation, redness, and hyperpigmentation. It is well-tolerated by most skin types and enhances the skin barrier function.
Risks
Very low risk of irritation; generally well-tolerated.
Benefits
Improves skin tone, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in skincare.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps in dissolving other ingredients and provides a base for the formulation.
Cocamidopropyl BetaineNeutral
Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, used to create foam and cleanse the skin. It is generally considered safe and effective for use in personal care products. However, it can cause irritation in some individuals with sensitive skin.
Risks
May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides gentle cleansing and foaming properties.
Disodium Laureth SulfosuccinateNeutral
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is a mild surfactant used for its cleansing properties. It is less irritating than traditional sulfates and is often used in formulations for sensitive skin. While generally safe, it can still cause irritation in some individuals.
Risks
Potential for mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides effective cleansing with reduced irritation compared to harsher sulfates.
Sodium CocoamphoacetateNeutral
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate is a mild surfactant used for its foaming and cleansing properties. It is derived from coconut oil and is considered gentle on the skin. It is suitable for sensitive skin types due to its mild nature.
Risks
Minimal risk of irritation, generally considered safe.
Benefits
Provides gentle cleansing and foaming action.
PantolactoneNeutral
Pantolactone is used as a humectant and conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps retain moisture in the skin, contributing to a hydrated appearance. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.
Risks
Minimal risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
Helps retain moisture and conditions the skin.
Sodium ChlorideNeutral
Sodium Chloride, or table salt, is used as a thickening agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps improve the viscosity of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Minimal risk of irritation; generally safe.
Benefits
Improves product viscosity and texture.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations and acts as a mild exfoliant. It helps maintain the stability and effectiveness of the product. While generally safe, it can cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Risks
Potential for skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Adjusts pH and provides mild exfoliation.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves product texture and stability.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf life.
Masking FragranceBad
Fragrance is often added to cosmetics to enhance the sensory experience, but it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. It is a common cause of contact dermatitis and is considered a potential skin sensitizer. Fragrance can also mask the presence of other potentially harmful chemicals.
Risks
High risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Benefits
Enhances the sensory experience of the product.
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