Hydrating Cleanser Bar
Hydrating Cleanser Bar
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed, soap-free syndet bar from CeraVe that gently cleanses face and body without disrupting the skin barrier. Powered by 3 essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP), hyaluronic acid, and 5% CeraVe Moisturizing Cream with patented MVE Delivery Technology that releases hydration steadily for up to 24 hours. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and accepted by the National Eczema Association — ideal for normal to dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin.
3 Essential Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)
Helps replenish the lipids that make up roughly 50% of the skin barrier, supporting moisture retention and resilience.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3 Essential Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)
Helps replenish the lipids that make up roughly 50% of the skin barrier, supporting moisture retention and resilience.
Hyaluronic Acid
Attracts and binds water to the skin's surface, helping skin feel plump and hydrated rather than tight after washing.
Patented MVE Delivery Technology
Multivesicular emulsion technology gradually releases moisturizing ingredients for up to 24 hours of comfort.
Soap-Free Syndet Formula
Built around mild synthetic detergents (sodium cocoyl isethionate) — not traditional saponified soap — to avoid stripping skin.
Fragrance-Free & Non-Comedogenic
No added fragrance or pore-clogging oils — suitable for sensitive, eczema-prone, and breakout-prone skin.
Eczema Association Accepted
Recognized by the National Eczema Association as a gentle option for individuals with eczema-prone skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and lactation.
Contains stearic acid, cetearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, and caprylic/capric triglyceride. As a rinse-off cleanser, contact time is short, but those highly reactive may want to choose a stricter formula.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Fragrance-free, dye-free, and built around barrier-supporting ceramides and cholesterol.
As a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, it pairs nicely with retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs — making it ideal for sensitized routines.
Formulated and labeled non-comedogenic — designed not to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone and combination skin.
Although well-tolerated overall, anyone with very reactive skin or known sensitivities should patch test on the inner forearm for 24 hours.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Cocoyl Isethionate Primary SurfactantProven
A coconut-derived mild surfactant and the cornerstone of "syndet" (synthetic detergent) bars. It provides effective cleansing with significantly less skin irritation than traditional soap.
- Source: Widely cited in dermatological literature as one of the gentlest commercial surfactants, often recommended for compromised skin barriers.
- Function: Generates a creamy, low-stripping lather that removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disturbing skin pH.
Ceramide NP, AP & EOP 3 Essential CeramidesProven
Three biomimetic ceramides that mirror those found naturally in the stratum corneum. They help reinforce the skin's lipid matrix and reduce trans-epidermal water loss.
- Research: Ceramides make up around 50% of intercellular skin lipids and are central to barrier function and hydration.
- Benefit: Supports recovery in dry, eczema-prone, and barrier-compromised skin.
Sodium Hyaluronate HumectantProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid — more stable and more readily absorbed than HA itself. Binds moisture to the skin surface to leave skin feeling soft after rinsing.
- Capacity: Hyaluronic acid molecules can hold many times their weight in water.
- Tolerance: One of the most universally tolerated hydrators in skincare.
Glycerin HumectantProven
A foundational humectant that draws water into the upper layers of the skin and helps prevent the post-wash "tight" feeling typical of harsher cleansers.
- Stability: Stable, non-irritating, and effective at low concentrations.
- Synergy: Works well alongside ceramides and HA to maintain hydration.
Cholesterol & Phytosphingosine Skin LipidsProven
Cholesterol is one of the three core lipid families in the skin barrier (alongside ceramides and fatty acids). Phytosphingosine is a ceramide precursor with mild antimicrobial benefits.
- Synergy: Cholesterol + ceramides + fatty acids in proper ratio support optimal barrier repair.
- Bonus: Phytosphingosine has been studied for soothing properties in compromised skin.
Dimethicone OcclusiveProven
A breathable silicone that forms a light protective film on the skin, helping seal in moisture from the bar's humectants and ceramides during rinse.
- Tolerance: Considered one of the most well-tolerated cosmetic ingredients globally.
- Function: Reduces water loss without clogging pores or feeling heavy.
Petrolatum OcclusiveProven
Pharmaceutical-grade petrolatum is one of the most effective occlusives known, reducing trans-epidermal water loss by up to 99%. Helps lock in the bar's hydrating ingredients.
- Research: Recognized in dermatology guidelines as a gold-standard barrier protectant.
- Note: Used in low concentration in a rinse-off format — won't leave a greasy feel.
31 ingredients
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Water (Aqua/Eau), Sodium Isethionate, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Dimethicone, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Petrolatum, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylene Brassylate, Cetyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first cleansing step in both morning and evening routines. For heavy makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing — start with an oil cleanser, then follow with this bar.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Skin & Bar
Splash face or body with lukewarm water. Wet the bar — hot water can be unnecessarily drying.
Lather Up
Rub the bar gently between hands or onto a soft loofah/washcloth to build a light, creamy foam.
Massage Onto Skin
Apply the lather to face and/or body in circular motions for about 30–60 seconds. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until skin no longer feels slippery. Pat dry — do not rub harshly.
Store Properly
Place on a draining soap dish away from direct water spray to extend the bar's life and prevent softening.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, dry, or dehydrated skin that feels tight after most cleansers
- You have eczema, dermatitis, or a compromised skin barrier
- You're sensitive to fragrances and essential oils
- You want a single bar for both face and body
- You use retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs and need a gentle, supportive cleanser
- You prefer a low-waste, minimalist bar over plastic bottles
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin and prefer a foaming, deeply clarifying cleanse
- You have severe Malassezia (fungal acne) and need an ester-free formula
- You wear heavy waterproof makeup (use as a second cleanse instead)
- You strongly dislike the feel of bar soap or share a bathroom with others where hygiene of bars is a concern
- You prefer a strongly fragranced, "spa-like" cleansing experience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe 5% moisturizing cream content, ceramides, and HA leave dry skin feeling soft instead of stripped.
Balanced, non-disruptive cleansing — a reliable everyday option that won't throw skin off.
Cleanses well but is formulated for hydration. Very oily skin may prefer the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar.
Comfortable on dry zones; adequately cleanses oilier areas without aggravating dryness.
Fragrance-free, mild syndet base, and NEA-accepted — one of the safest cleanser bar choices for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic and gentle on acne-treatment-irritated skin. Pair with active treatments separately.
Results timeline
2+ MONTHSNo Tightness After Cleansing
Skin feels comfortable and soft right after rinsing — without the squeaky, stripped sensation common to traditional soaps.
~85% noticed immediatelyLess Dryness & Flaking
Continued use begins to reduce visible flaking and rough patches — particularly on cheeks, hands, and shins.
~70% noticed within 7 daysStronger, Calmer Skin Barrier
Reduced reactivity to environmental stressors, less redness, and better tolerance of active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C.
~65% noticed by week 4Sustained Comfort & Hydration
Long-term use supports a healthier baseline for sensitive, eczema-prone, and dry skin — fewer flare-ups and better day-to-day comfort.
~75% report long-term benefitRatings by platform
20K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Doesn't leave skin tight or stripped after washing
- Excellent for dry, eczema-prone, and sensitive skin
- Truly fragrance-free with no synthetic perfume
- Multi-purpose — works for face, body, and hands
- Affordable and widely available
- Bar lasts longer than equivalent liquid cleansers
- Dermatologist-developed and NEA accepted
- Pairs well with active-heavy routines
Criticized
- Lather is lighter than traditional soap bars
- May feel under-cleansing for very oily skin
- Bar can soften if left in direct shower spray
- Not strictly fungal-acne safe (contains stearic acid & esters)
- Doesn't fully remove heavy waterproof makeup alone
- Plain, utilitarian packaging — no luxe experience
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same gentle syndet-bar philosophy and dermatologist-recommended status, but lacks ceramides and the MVE Delivery Technology. A solid no-frills alternative for sensitive skin.
Free of common allergens, dyes, and fragrance — even stricter than CeraVe for highly reactive skin. Lacks ceramides but is excellent for severe eczema.
Very mild and well-tolerated, but contains some sodium tallowate (true soap component) and lacks ceramides/HA. Cheapest entry point but less barrier-targeted.
Soothing colloidal oat formula great for irritation. Less of a face-and-body all-rounder; targeted more at body relief than balanced facial cleansing.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened bars typically maintain quality for 24–36 months.
Keep in a cool, dry place on a draining soap dish. Avoid leaving it in pooled water or direct shower spray.
Recyclable paperboard outer carton with the bar individually wrapped — minimal plastic footprint.
Yes — solid bar is fully TSA-approved for carry-on. No liquid restrictions, no leaks.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters — the main groups of concern during pregnancy and lactation. It's also fragrance-free, which is helpful for the heightened scent sensitivity many people experience during pregnancy. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
Not strictly. The formula contains stearic acid, cetearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, and caprylic/capric triglyceride — all of which can theoretically feed Malassezia yeast. However, because this is a rinse-off product with very short skin contact time, many people with mild fungal acne tolerate it without issue. If you have severe Malassezia folliculitis, choose a strict fungal-acne-safe cleanser instead.
Yes — and it's actually a great pairing. Because the bar is gentle, fragrance-free, and barrier-supporting, it minimizes the irritation often triggered by retinoids, vitamin C, and acid exfoliants. Cleanse, pat skin dry, then apply your active treatment as usual. The ceramides and HA help the skin tolerate stronger ingredients better over time.
It's optimized for normal to dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin — both face and body. Combination skin tolerates it well. Very oily skin can use it, but may prefer the foaming version of CeraVe's bar (which contains the same ceramides plus a stronger surfactant base).
Comfort is usually noticed from the very first wash — no tightness, no squeaky feel. Visible improvements in dryness and flaking typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Stronger barrier resilience (less reactivity, fewer flare-ups) tends to develop over 4 weeks or more.
It's the very first step — used to cleanse face and/or body, morning and evening. Follow with your toner, essence, serum, and moisturizer. In the morning, finish with sunscreen. For heavy makeup or sunscreen, double-cleanse: start with an oil cleanser, then use this bar as the second cleanse.
No. The product is formulated and labeled non-comedogenic, with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. None of the key ingredients are considered highly pore-clogging, and as a rinse-off cleanser, contact time with the skin is minimal.
The bar has a Period After Opening (PAO) of about 12 months. Unopened, it stays stable for 24–36 months. To make it last longer in daily use, store it on a well-draining soap dish away from direct shower spray, and let it dry between uses.
Verdict: The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar is one of the most reliable barrier-friendly cleansers on the market. With three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and patented MVE Technology in a soap-free syndet base, it cleanses without stripping — making it ideal for normal to dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. It's not the strongest pick for oily skin or strict Malassezia regimens, but for everyday gentle cleansing of face and body — especially alongside actives like retinol or vitamin C — it's hard to beat at this price point.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Isethionate
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
CI 77891
Cosmetic Colorant
|
|