Hydrating Cream-To-Foam Cleanser
Hydrating Cream-To-Foam Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A unique cream-to-foam cleanser that transforms from a rich cream into a gentle lather, effectively removing makeup and impurities while hydrating and supporting your skin barrier with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and amino acids. Developed with dermatologists for normal to dry skin.
Unique Cream-to-Foam Technology
Dispenses as a rich cream and transforms into a gentle foam lather when mixed with water for a satisfying cleansing experience.
Texture & feel
SENSORYUnique Cream-to-Foam Technology
Dispenses as a rich cream and transforms into a gentle foam lather when mixed with water for a satisfying cleansing experience.
3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II to help restore and maintain your skin's natural protective barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid Infused
Attracts hydration to the skin's surface and helps retain moisture for plump, hydrated skin.
MVE Technology
Patented delivery system continuously releases moisturizing ingredients for 24-hour hydration support.
Effective Makeup Removal
Gently yet effectively removes dirt, oil, daily SPF, and even long-wear foundation in one step.
Amino Acid Complex
Multiple amino acids support skin's Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) to attract and retain moisture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, hydroquinone, and high-concentration chemical exfoliants. Contains only gentle, barrier-supporting ingredients safe during pregnancy.
Contains fatty alcohols (cetearyl alcohol), esters (sorbitan isostearate, glycol distearate), and other ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Formulated to not clog pores. Comedogenic rating of 1/5 based on ingredient analysis. Allergy-tested and suitable for sensitive skin.
Gentle, non-stripping formula perfect for use alongside tretinoin or retinol treatments. pH-balanced at 5.0 for skin barrier support.
Ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers. Can be used around the eye area for makeup removal.
No added fragrances, parabens, or sulfates. Ideal for those with sensitive or reactive skin conditions.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide Complex (NP, AP, EOP)Proven
Three essential ceramides identical to those found naturally in skin. They make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier and are crucial for maintaining hydration and protection.
- Function: Restores and maintains the skin's natural protective barrier
- Research: Studies show ceramide-containing products improve skin hydration and barrier function
- MVE Delivery: Encapsulated for slow release over 24 hours
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid penetrates more easily into skin.
- Function: Attracts and binds moisture to the skin surface
- Benefit: Helps skin retain moisture even in a rinse-off product
- Source: Well-documented hydration benefits in clinical studies
Amino Acid ComplexProven
Contains multiple amino acids including Glycine, Arginine, Serine, Threonine, Valine, Proline, Isoleucine, Alanine, and Phenylalanine.
- Function: Supports skin's Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF)
- Benefit: Helps attract and retain moisture in the skin
- Source: Amino acids are building blocks naturally present in healthy skin
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl TaurateGentle Surfactant
An amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut. Creates the gentle cream-to-foam transformation while being non-drying.
- Function: Mild cleansing agent that creates foam
- Benefit: Removes dirt and makeup without stripping natural oils
- Safety: One of the gentlest surfactants available, biodegradable
Glycerin High PositionProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture to the skin. Listed high in the formula indicating significant concentration.
- Function: Attracts water to the skin and improves barrier function
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Will not clog pores
- Research: Proven more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant in some studies
52 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Coco-Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Chloride, PCA, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, CI 77891/Titanium Dioxide, Aspartic Acid, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Sorbitan Isostearate, Carbomer, Glycol Distearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Oleate, Glycine, Trideceth-6, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Threonine, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Arginine, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Serine, Sodium Benzoate, Valine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Proline, Isoleucine, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Alanine, Phenylalanine, Coconut Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Chlorphenesin, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Citric Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening. Can be used as a standalone cleanser or as the second step in double cleansing after an oil cleanser for heavy makeup removal.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Skin
Splash lukewarm water on your face to dampen the skin. Avoid very hot water as it can strip natural oils.
Dispense & Lather
Pump a small amount (about a nickel-sized dollop) into your hands. Rub hands together to transform the cream into a foam.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face and eye area in gentle, circular motions for 30-60 seconds. The foam effectively lifts away makeup and impurities.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with the rest of your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal to dry skin
- You want a cleanser that removes makeup effectively
- You prefer foaming cleansers but find them too drying
- You're using retinol or tretinoin treatments
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to fragrances
- You want to strengthen your skin barrier
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You wear contact lenses
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very oily skin that needs deep cleansing
- You prefer non-foaming milk or gel cleansers
- You're sensitive to fatty alcohols
- You need a heavy-duty waterproof makeup remover
- You prefer a completely "squeaky clean" feeling
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. The hydrating formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid cleanses without stripping moisture. Leaves skin soft, not tight.
Perfect for maintaining balanced skin. Provides gentle cleansing while supporting the skin barrier without over-moisturizing.
Works well for combination skin, especially in colder months. May feel slightly rich for very oily T-zones in summer.
May not feel cleansing enough for very oily skin. Consider CeraVe Foaming Cleanser instead for better oil control.
Fragrance-free, gentle formula with skin-identical pH of 5.0. Allergy-tested and safe for reactive skin types.
Non-comedogenic formula is safe for regular acne. Not suitable for fungal acne due to certain emollient ingredients.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSClean & Comfortable Skin
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed without tightness. Makeup and SPF removed, skin feels soft and refreshed.
95% noticed clean feelingImproved Hydration
Skin appears more hydrated and less dry throughout the day. The tight, dry feeling after cleansing disappears completely.
82% reported better hydrationStronger Skin Barrier
Noticeable improvement in skin barrier function. Less sensitivity, reduced redness, and better tolerance to other skincare products.
76% experienced barrier improvementOverall Skin Health
Skin texture improvement, fewer dry patches, and a healthier-looking complexion. Particularly beneficial when using alongside actives like retinol.
70% reported healthier skinRatings by platform
51K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or dry after cleansing
- Unique cream-to-foam texture feels luxurious
- Effectively removes daily makeup and sunscreen
- Fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin
- Contains beneficial ceramides and hyaluronic acid
- Affordable price point for drugstore brand
- Large bottle sizes offer great value
- Perfect for use with retinol treatments
Criticized
- Some users report a slight film or residue
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- May not feel cleansing enough for very oily skin
- Struggles with heavy waterproof makeup
- Pump can be stiff and hard to dispense initially
- Some find it too moisturizing for summer use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar cream-to-foam concept, also fragrance-free and gentle. Contains niacinamide but lacks ceramides. Slightly more affordable.
Even more minimal formula, perfect for ultra-sensitive skin. Fungal acne safe option. Less hydrating but extremely gentle.
Contains niacinamide and prebiotic thermal water. Doesn't foam, milkier texture. Also contains ceramides. Good for very sensitive skin.
Focuses on hyaluronic acid hydration. Gel formula rather than cream-to-foam. More suitable for combination skin types.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for exact duration.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Pump bottle made from 100% recycled plastic (excluding pump). Refill pouches available for sustainability.
Available in 3oz travel size that meets TSA requirements. Standard sizes not carry-on compliant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, high-concentration salicylic acid, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. The trace amount of salicylic acid is used for pH adjustment and is well below concerning levels. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast, including cetearyl alcohol, glycol distearate, sorbitan isostearate, glyceryl oleate, and various esters. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or the Malezia Hyaluronic Acid Cleanser.
Yes! This cleanser is an excellent choice to use alongside active ingredients. Its gentle, non-stripping formula with a pH of 5.0 helps support the skin barrier while using potentially irritating treatments like retinol or tretinoin. The ceramides and hyaluronic acid help counteract dryness often caused by these actives. Simply cleanse, wait for skin to dry, then apply your actives.
This cleanser is best suited for normal to dry skin and sensitive skin types. It's particularly excellent for those who love the foam sensation but find typical foaming cleansers too drying. While it can work for combination skin, those with very oily skin may prefer CeraVe's Foaming Facial Cleanser for better oil control.
You'll notice immediate benefits: skin feels clean, soft, and comfortable right after the first use without tightness. Within 1-2 weeks, most users report improved overall hydration. After 4-6 weeks of consistent use, you may notice stronger skin barrier function, reduced sensitivity, and better tolerance to other products in your routine.
This cleanser is the first step in your routine (or second if you're double cleansing with an oil cleanser first for heavy makeup). Use morning and evening before applying toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It can also be used around the eye area for gentle makeup removal.
No, this cleanser is non-comedogenic and has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's formulated not to clog pores and is allergy-tested. However, everyone's skin is different, so if you're prone to congestion from fatty alcohols or certain emollients, patch test first. For regular acne (not fungal), it's generally well-tolerated.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Once opened, use within 12 months for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The pump packaging helps minimize contamination compared to jar products. Check the PAO symbol on your specific bottle for exact guidance.
Verdict: CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser is an excellent everyday cleanser for normal to dry and sensitive skin types. The unique cream-to-foam texture provides a satisfying cleansing experience without the drying effects of typical foaming cleansers. The inclusion of three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and amino acids makes it particularly beneficial for barrier support. While it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers and may feel too hydrating for very oily skin, it excels at gentle makeup removal and pairs beautifully with active treatments like retinol. At its affordable price point with multiple size options, it offers exceptional value for a dermatologist-developed cleanser.
Browse related
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 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|