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Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser

Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser

Product Description

Product overview

Made in USA CLINICAL

A gentle, oil-to-foam daily cleanser developed with dermatologists that transforms from a lightweight oil into a soft lathering foam. Formulated with 3 essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalane to cleanse without stripping moisture—leaving skin feeling hydrated, comfortable, and never tight.

Fragrance-Free Non-Comedogenic Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Vegan Reef Safe NEA Accepted Oil-Free Base
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
8-19 oz
Price
$15-20
pH Level
~5.5
Skin Type
Dry/Sensitive
Use Time
AM/PM
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

3 Essential Ceramides

Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP to help restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Oil-to-Foam Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Rinses Clean
Finish
Hydrated, Non-Greasy

3 Essential Ceramides

Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP to help restore and maintain the skin's natural protective barrier.

Hyaluronic Acid

Sodium Hyaluronate attracts and retains moisture, helping skin stay plump and hydrated after cleansing.

Squalane Oil

Plant-derived squalane replenishes natural skin lipids without clogging pores or leaving greasy residue.

Oil-to-Foam Technology

Transforms from a lightweight oil into a soft, gentle foam that cleanses without stripping or drying skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, and hydroquinone. Ceramides are naturally found in skin and considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Polysorbate 20, and other PEG compounds that may feed malassezia yeast.

National Eczema Association Accepted

Recognized by the NEA as suitable for eczema-prone skin. Gentle enough for sensitive, atopic-prone, and baby skin (3+ months).

Non-Comedogenic Formula

Low comedogenic rating of 1/5. Won't clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin types seeking gentle cleansing.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP)Proven

Three essential ceramides that make up approximately 50% of the lipids in your skin barrier. They help lock in moisture and protect against environmental aggressors.

  • Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3): Helps restore barrier function and improve hydration
  • Ceramide AP (Ceramide 6-II): Supports natural skin renewal and moisturization
  • Ceramide EOP (Ceramide 1): Creates a protective layer to prevent moisture loss
Studies show ceramides help strengthen weakened skin barriers, beneficial for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and aging skin.

Sodium HyaluronateProven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular size, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin. Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water.

  • Molecular Weight: Smaller than HA, allowing better skin penetration
  • Function: Humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin
  • Benefit: Helps maintain skin's moisture balance and plump appearance

Squalane ~1-2%Proven

A stable, hydrogenated form of squalene (naturally produced by our skin). Non-comedogenic emollient that mimics skin's natural oils.

  • Source: Typically derived from sugarcane (plant-based) for stability
  • Comedogenic Rating: 0-1 — won't clog pores
  • Function: Locks in moisture, softens skin, and provides antioxidant protection

GlycerinProven

One of the most effective humectants available. Naturally present in skin and proven more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid at attracting moisture in some studies.

  • Source: Plant-derived (typically soybean or palm)
  • Function: Draws moisture into deeper skin layers
  • Additional: Has antimicrobial and antiviral properties

33 ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Coco-Betaine, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Polysorbate 20, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Squalane, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Citric Acid, Capryloyl Glycine, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Benzoic Acid, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Harsh Alcohols, Silicones, Common Allergens, Oils, Dyes
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Oil Cleanser
2
Water Cleanser
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Use as your first cleanser (oil step) or as a gentle standalone cleanser for light makeup days. Best results when followed by a water-based second cleanser for heavy makeup removal.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Wet Your Skin

Start with lukewarm water to prep your face and body. Can be applied to damp or dry skin depending on desired lather intensity.

2

Dispense Product

Pump a pea-sized to dime-sized amount into your palm. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.

3

Massage Gently

Apply to skin in gentle circular motions. Watch as the oil transforms into a soft, lightweight foam as you massage.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with your favorite CeraVe moisturizer.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have dry to very dry skin that feels tight after cleansing
  • You want a gentle cleanser that won't strip your skin barrier
  • You have sensitive, eczema-prone, or atopic skin
  • You prefer double cleansing and need a hydrating first step
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
  • You want a multi-use product for face, body, and hands
  • You love CeraVe's ceramide-based formulas

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this is NOT fungal acne safe
  • You need heavy makeup removal in one step
  • You prefer a rich, luxurious lather
  • You have oily skin and want oil-control properties
  • You're sensitive to PEG compounds
  • You want a strong scent or fragrance in your cleanser
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

Specifically formulated for dry to very dry skin. Ceramides and squalane help maintain hydration without stripping.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Fragrance-free, gentle formula. NEA accepted for eczema-prone skin. Suitable for baby skin 3+ months.

Combination Skin
Good

Works well for dry areas but may feel too hydrating for oily zones. Better suited for winter or drier months.

Oily Skin
Moderate

May not provide enough oil control. Consider CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for oily skin types instead.

Acne-Prone
Good

Non-comedogenic formula (rating 1/5). However, NOT safe for fungal acne due to PEG compounds.

08

Results timeline

1-2 MONTHS
Immediately

Comfortable, Clean Feeling

Skin feels clean without the tight, stripped sensation common with foaming cleansers. No greasy residue left behind.

95% noticed
Week 1-2

Improved Skin Comfort

Reduced dryness and irritation after cleansing. Skin barrier feels less compromised, especially for those transitioning from harsher cleansers.

78% noticed
Week 3-4

Enhanced Skin Hydration

Noticeable improvement in overall skin hydration levels. Less need for heavy moisturizers. Skin texture appears smoother.

65% noticed
1-2 Months

Strengthened Barrier Function

Ceramides work to reinforce skin barrier over time. Reduced sensitivity and improved resilience against environmental stressors.

58% noticed
09

Ratings by platform

10K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.5
Rating
8,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Slight waxy or crayon-like scent despite being fragrance-free
Ulta
4.4
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not effective for removing heavy or waterproof makeup alone
Walmart
4.3
Rating
950+
Reviews
Main complaint: Consistency is runny and doesn't lather as much as expected
SkinSort
4.4
Rating
17
Reviews
Main complaint: Not fungal acne safe due to multiple PEG compounds in formula
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Non-stripping, doesn't leave skin tight or dry
  • Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
  • Contains beneficial ceramides and hyaluronic acid
  • NEA accepted for eczema-prone skin
  • Excellent value — large bottle lasts months
  • Works well as first step in double cleansing
  • Multi-use for face, body, and hands
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe

Criticized

  • Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
  • Slight waxy/crayon scent bothers some users
  • Won't remove heavy makeup effectively alone
  • Thin, runny consistency may feel different than expected
  • Not as hydrating as some users hoped
  • May be too moisturizing for oily skin types
  • Light foam — not a rich, satisfying lather
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Cleanser
$15.99
Similar Price

Same gentle, fragrance-free approach with ceramides and niacinamide. Better suited for normal to oily skin. More traditional foam texture.

70% Match
Squalane Cleanser
$8.00
Budget Pick

Balm-to-oil texture with squalane focus. No ceramides but excellent for gentle cleansing. Cruelty-free alternative. More minimalist formula.

75% Match
Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser
$8.00
Budget Pick

Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid at a lower price point. Vegan and cruelty-free. Similar hydrating approach but different texture.

72% Match
Resist Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser
$21.00

Similar foaming oil concept with additional antioxidants. Slightly higher price but excellent for anti-aging routines. Fragrance-free.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Atoderm Cleansing Oil
Key Ingredients Vitamin PP + Plant Oils
Fungal Acne Safe No
Texture Rich Oil
Best For Very Dry/Atopic Skin
Size 6.7 oz / 200ml
Hydrating Cream-To-Foam Cleanser
Key Ingredients 3 Ceramides + HA + Amino Acids
Fungal Acne Safe No
Texture Cream-to-Foam
Best For Normal-Dry Skin
Size 12 oz / 355ml
Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Key Ingredients Ceramide-3 + Niacinamide
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Texture Traditional Foam
Best For All Skin Types
Size 6.76 oz / 200ml
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat

Packaging

Pump bottle dispenser — hygienic and easy to control product amount

Travel Friendly

8 oz size is under 100ml limit; larger sizes require checked luggage or decanting

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes, this cleanser is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The ceramides in this formula are naturally found in human skin and pose no risk. However, always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including: PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Polysorbate 20, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, and PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate. If you have fungal acne, consider La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser instead.

Yes! This is a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that works well with active ingredients. Because it's non-stripping and hydrating, it actually helps prepare skin for actives without causing additional irritation. Use it before applying retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants. Its ceramides help support skin barrier function during active treatments.

This cleanser is specifically formulated for dry to very dry skin. It's also excellent for sensitive, eczema-prone, and atopic skin (NEA accepted). It works well for combination skin in winter or dry climates. However, those with oily skin may find it too moisturizing and should consider CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser instead.

You'll notice immediate comfort after cleansing — no tight or stripped feeling. Within 1-2 weeks, you should see reduced dryness and irritation. After 3-4 weeks, overall hydration improves noticeably. For full skin barrier benefits from the ceramides, consistent use for 1-2 months is recommended.

This cleanser works best as the first step in a double cleanse routine (oil cleanser step) or as a standalone gentle cleanser for light makeup days. Use it on damp or dry skin, massage until it transforms into foam, then rinse. Follow with a water-based cleanser if wearing heavy makeup, then continue with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).

No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is labeled non-comedogenic by CeraVe. Key ingredients like squalane (rating 0-1) and ceramides are non-pore-clogging. It's suitable for acne-prone skin types looking for gentle cleansing. However, if you have fungal acne specifically, this product is not recommended due to PEG compounds.

This cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat for best results. The pump bottle helps maintain hygiene and extends product freshness. A 12 oz bottle typically lasts 3-6 months with twice-daily use on the face.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.4 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser is an excellent choice for those with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin seeking a gentle cleanser that won't strip moisture. The combination of 3 essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalane delivers real barrier-supporting benefits at a drugstore price point. Its oil-to-foam technology offers a unique sensorial experience without leaving greasy residue. However, it's NOT suitable for fungal acne sufferers, and those expecting heavy makeup removal in one step may be disappointed. Best used as part of a double cleanse routine or for light cleansing days. Overall, a solid workhorse cleanser that delivers on its hydrating promises for the right skin types.

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Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Ceramide NP Ceramide AP Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Sodium Hyaluronate Citric Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
54% 18% 27%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 33 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
3 Unknown
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate
Solvent, Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing
1 B
Coco-Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
1 B
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS