CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser Review: A Dry Skin Savior or Overhyped?

If you’ve ever tried skincare products that promise the world but leave your face feeling like sandpaper, you’re not alone—I’ve been there too many times.

Enter the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, a product that I reluctantly picked up during a desperate search for a cleanser that could handle my sensitive dry skin without wreaking havoc.

After months of use, I can confidently say that this one has earned a permanent spot in my skincare routine.

I’ll explain exactly how this hydrating cleanser helped me, so you’ll have all the information to guide you.

Why I Chose CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

I have combination skin, which means my T-zone can get oily while my cheeks are as dry as the Sahara.

To make matters worse, my skin is sensitive and prone to redness. Most cleansers I’ve tried either left me flaky and tight or didn’t clean enough to manage the excess oil in my oily areas.

I picked up the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser after hearing about its hyaluronic acid and essential ceramides (including ceramide NP, ceramide AP, and ceramide EOP) that help restore the skin’s natural barrier.

Honestly, I didn’t expect much. I thought, “It’s probably just another hyped product.” But within a week, I noticed something surprising—my skin wasn’t freaking out. In fact, it looked calmer and felt softer.

First Impressions and Application

The product package is simple and straightforward, which is very on-brand for CeraVe products. The pump dispenser makes it easy to control how much you use, which is helpful for daily use.

That being said, if I’m not careful in pressing the pump, it tends to shoot straight across the bathroom occasionally. I make sure to always press lightly and position my hand so the product goes straight into it.

The first time I used this cleanser, I wasn’t blown away. The texture is creamy and smooth—closer to a cream cleanser than a foaming one.

I pumped a small amount onto my fingers, applied it to wet skin, and gently massaged it in. I didn’t feel the bubbly lather I was used to from other cleansers, and I initially thought it wouldn’t clean my face properly.

But when I rinsed it off with lukewarm water, my skin felt…normal. Not tight, not overly hydrated—just balanced.

It was the first time I didn’t feel the urgent need to slather on moisturizer immediately after cleansing.

Breaking Down the Ingredients

What sets this cleanser apart is its impressive ingredient list, which is designed to support the skin’s natural barrier. Here’s a quick breakdown of some key ingredients:

1. Hyaluronic Acid: Helps retain the skin’s natural moisture, keeping it hydrated and plump.
2. Essential Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP): Strengthen the skin’s protective barrier and prevent water loss.
3. Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, and Cetyl Alcohol: These are fatty alcohols that moisturize rather than dry out the skin.
4. Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate and Behentrimonium Methosulfate: Gentle surfactants that cleanse without irritating.
5. Disodium EDTA: Stabilizes the formula and enhances its effectiveness.
6. Xanthan Gum and Glyceryl Stearate: Improve the texture and provide a smooth, creamy feel.
7. Dipotassium Phosphate: Balances the pH, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

How It Fits into My Routine

Here’s how I use CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser:

1. Morning Routine: It’s my go-to gentle morning cleanser. After splashing my face with water, I apply a small amount, massage it in, and rinse. My skin feels clean and fresh but not stripped.
2. Night Routine: At night, I use it as a second cleanser after removing makeup with a cotton pad and micellar water. It gets rid of any leftover residue while still keeping my skin’s protective barrier intact.
3. Double Duty: On busy days, I’ve even used this as a quick body wash for my chest and shoulders when I felt my skin getting dry.

The Results: Changes I’ve Seen

I used CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser together with Cerave Moisturizer Cream. These are the changes I noticed.

Week 1

Within the first week, my skin started feeling softer. The rough patches on my cheeks were less noticeable, and my oily T-zone wasn’t as shiny by midday.

I noticed that my skin felt hydrated, likely thanks to the hyaluronic acid in the formula.

Week 4

A month in, I could tell my skin’s barrier was in much better shape.

I used to get random breakouts around my nose and chin, especially when I skipped moisturizer, but those became less frequent.

My skin looked calmer overall—less red and more even-toned.

Month 3

After three months of consistent use, my skin feels like it’s finally balanced.

The dry patches I used to deal with during colder months haven’t shown up yet, and the oily areas are under control without feeling stripped.

I’ve also noticed that my skin looks plumper and healthier—probably thanks to the combination of hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, and the essential ceramides working together.

Comparing It to Other CeraVe Cleansers

I’ve tried a few other CeraVe products, so here’s how this one stacks up:

• CeraVe Foaming Cleanser: This is better for oily or acne-prone skin. It lathers more and tackles excess oil but doesn’t feel as hydrating.
• CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser: This one is a hybrid—it’s hydrating like the hydrating facial cleanser but has a slight lather. I’d recommend it for those with combination skin who want the best of both worlds.
• CeraVe Hydrating Cream: Perfect for sealing in the hydration after using the cleanser. It’s like the cherry on top of a well-rounded routine.

Who Is CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser Best For

Based on my skin type and results, I’d recommend this to people with:

• Sensitive Skin: It’s free from irritants like fragrances and harsh sulfates.
• Normal to Dry Skin: The hydrating formula helps retain the skin’s natural moisture.
• Combination Skin: It balances oily and dry areas without overdoing it.
• First Time Skincare Users: If you’re new to cleansing and worried about harsh products, this is a safe bet.

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser: Final Verdict

After months of consistent use, I can confidently say that the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is one of the best skincare investments I’ve made.

It’s a great product for anyone looking for a gentle, effective, and affordable cleanser that respects your skin’s natural barrier.

So, if you’re still searching for the elusive perfect cleanser, give this one a shot. It’s helped me achieve the kind of clear skin and balance I thought only expensive products could provide—and it might do the same for you.

Marina Maletic

Hi, I’m Marina, the founder of Pure Glam Guide! My love for beauty started when I was little, sneaking into my mom’s makeup stash and trying on every lipstick I could find. That passion has only grown—now, I test skincare, experiment with makeup, and explore nail and hair trends to share honest reviews and tips. Whether it’s the best new foundation or a game-changing moisturizer, I’m here to help you navigate the beauty world with real advice and tried-and-true favorites!