CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser - 12oz: Noncomedogenic, Paraben-Free, With Salicylic Acid, For Normal, Sensitive Skin

Common questions

Is CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser - 12oz: Noncomedogenic, Paraben-Free, With Salicylic Acid, For Normal, Sensitive Skin healthy?

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser - 12oz: Noncomedogenic, Paraben-Free, With Salicylic Acid, For Normal, Sensitive Skin scores 71/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This face wash contains beneficial ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, and salicylic acid, which support skin health and hydration.

How processed is CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser - 12oz: Noncomedogenic, Paraben-Free, With Salicylic Acid, For Normal, Sensitive Skin?

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser - 12oz: Noncomedogenic, Paraben-Free, With Salicylic Acid, For Normal, Sensitive Skin is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser - 12oz: Noncomedogenic, Paraben-Free, With Salicylic Acid, For Normal, Sensitive Skin's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone count in its favor; Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser - 12oz: Noncomedogenic, Paraben-Free, With Salicylic Acid, For Normal, Sensitive Skin

71 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

8 fl oz
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 10
Harmful ingredients 4
Category Face Wash
Summary

This face wash contains beneficial ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, and salicylic acid, which support skin health and hydration. However, the presence of phenoxyethanol, a preservative that can cause irritation, and the use of PEG compounds contribute to a moderate processing level, slightly lowering its overall score. The product is mostly safe with some synthetic components, balancing its beneficial and potentially irritating ingredients.

Key ingredients 27

Ceramide AP
Very Good

Ceramide AP is another type of ceramide that supports the skin barrier function. It helps to lock in moisture and protect the skin from environmental stressors. It is suitable for all skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with ceramides.

Benefits

Enhances skin barrier function and provides long-lasting hydration.

See more about Ceramide AP →
Ceramide EOP
Very Good

Ceramide EOP is crucial for maintaining the skin's protective barrier. It helps to prevent moisture loss and improve skin resilience. It is beneficial for dry and compromised skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with ceramides.

Benefits

Improves skin barrier integrity and hydration.

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Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Very Good

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid is a smaller molecule form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates the skin more easily. It provides intense hydration and helps to plump the skin. It is beneficial for all skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with hyaluronic acid.

Benefits

Deeply hydrates the skin and improves elasticity.

Glycerin
Good

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 non-irritating and suitable for all skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may feel sticky to some users.

Benefits

Glycerin helps to maintain skin hydration and improve skin barrier function.

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Niacinamide
Good

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that is known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. It helps improve skin texture and tone. It is beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though high concentrations may cause irritation.

Benefits

Improves skin barrier function, reduces redness, and enhances skin radiance.

See more about Niacinamide →
Gluconolactone
Good

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation. It is suitable for sensitive skin and helps improve skin texture. It also has antioxidant properties.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

Exfoliates gently while providing hydration and antioxidant benefits.

See more about Gluconolactone →
Zea Mays Oil/Corn Oil
Good

Corn oil is a natural oil that provides moisturizing benefits. It is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It helps to nourish and soften the skin.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals with corn allergies.

Benefits

Moisturizes and nourishes the skin, improving its texture and softness.

Ceramide NP
Good

Ceramide NP is a lipid that helps restore the skin barrier and retain moisture. It is essential for maintaining healthy skin. It is beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with ceramides.

Benefits

Strengthens the skin barrier and improves hydration.

See more about Ceramide NP →
Salicylic Acid
Good

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties. It helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. It is beneficial for acne-prone skin.

Risks

May cause dryness or irritation if used excessively.

Benefits

Exfoliates the skin, reduces acne, and improves skin texture.

See more about Salicylic Acid →
Phytosphingosine
Good

Phytosphingosine is a lipid that helps to restore the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. It is beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It also has antimicrobial properties.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with phytosphingosine.

Benefits

Reduces inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and provides antimicrobial benefits.

See more about Phytosphingosine →
Aqua/Water/Eau
Neutral

Water is a universal solvent and is used as a base in many cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a medium for them to function. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.

Benefits

Water helps to hydrate the skin and is essential for the formulation of the product.

See more about Aqua/Water/Eau →
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Neutral

This is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, used to create foam and cleanse the skin. It is generally considered safe and less irritating than harsher surfactants. It is suitable for sensitive skin types.

Risks

In rare cases, it may cause mild irritation or allergic reactions.

Benefits

It helps to cleanse the skin without stripping natural oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

See more about Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine →
PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate
Neutral

This ingredient is used as a thickener and emulsifier in cosmetic formulations. It helps stabilize the product and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though some may be concerned about PEG compounds due to potential impurities.

Benefits

Improves product texture and stability.

See more about PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate →
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Neutral

This is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, used for its cleansing properties. It is considered gentle and suitable for sensitive skin. It helps create a creamy lather.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing and is suitable for sensitive skin.

See more about Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate →
Carbomer
Neutral

Carbomer is a thickening agent used to create gel-like textures in cosmetic products. It helps stabilize emulsions and improve product consistency. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

May cause mild irritation if used in high concentrations.

Benefits

Improves product texture and stability.

See more about Carbomer →
Calcium Gluconate
Neutral

Calcium gluconate is used as a skin-conditioning agent. It helps to improve skin texture and hydration. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with calcium gluconate.

Benefits

Enhances skin hydration and texture.

See more about Calcium Gluconate →
Sodium Chloride
Neutral

Sodium chloride, or table salt, is used as a thickening agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the viscosity of the product. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

Improves product texture and consistency.

See more about Sodium Chloride →
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate
Neutral

This is a mild surfactant and emulsifier used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to cleanse the skin and stabilize emulsions. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing and improves product stability.

See more about Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate →
Cholecalciferol
Neutral

Cholecalciferol, or Vitamin D3, is used for its skin-conditioning properties. It helps to improve skin health and appearance. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with topical use of Vitamin D3.

Benefits

Improves skin health and appearance.

Cholesterol
Neutral

Cholesterol is a lipid that helps to maintain the skin barrier and retain moisture. It is beneficial for dry and sensitive skin. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with cholesterol in cosmetics.

Benefits

Enhances skin barrier function and hydration.

See more about Cholesterol →
Tetrasodium EDTA
Neutral

Tetrasodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to enhance the stability of cosmetic products. It helps to bind metal ions and prevent product degradation. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though some may be concerned about its environmental impact.

Benefits

Improves product stability and prevents degradation.

See more about Tetrasodium EDTA →
Xanthan Gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a thickening agent used to improve the texture of cosmetic products. It helps to stabilize emulsions and provide a smooth consistency. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with xanthan gum.

Benefits

Improves product texture and stability.

See more about Xanthan Gum →
Ethylhexylglycerin
Neutral

Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative and skin-conditioning agent used in cosmetics. It helps to enhance the efficacy of other preservatives. It is generally considered safe for use.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Enhances preservative efficacy and conditions the skin.

See more about Ethylhexylglycerin →
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides effective cleansing while being gentle on the skin.

See more about Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate →
Sodium Benzoate
Bad

Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf life.

See more about Sodium Benzoate →
Phenoxyethanol
Bad

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic products. It is effective but can cause irritation in some individuals. It is often used as an alternative to parabens.

Risks

May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf life.

See more about Phenoxyethanol →
Disodium EDTA
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though some may be concerned about its environmental impact.

Benefits

Improves product stability and prevents degradation.

See more about Disodium EDTA →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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