Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser has received much praise in the skin care world, we’ve reviewed the product and included some pointers to ensure optimal results

What makes a ‘good’ cleanser?

Cleansing is perhaps the most essential part of any skin care routine. Facial cleansing ensures any excessive oils and dirt are washed away, preventing clogged pores and breakouts.

The type of cleanser is just as important as the cleansing process. Harsh cleansers with detergents can strip the skin of its natural oils. This leads to excessive dryness and inflammation. The skin can also begin to produce excessive amounts of sebum, a natural waxy secretion which helps to protect and moisturise the skin. Excessive production of this oily matter however can further clog pores and lead to breakouts.

A good cleanser should therefore be:

1. Non-drying, the cleanser shouldn’t strip the skin of all it’s natural oils
2. pH-friendly, as to not disturb the natural pH of the skin
3. Fragrance-free, as often these fragrances are synthetic and can be irritating/allergenic

The Product

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser fulfils all the criterion above, it is oil-free, soap-free, and fragrance-free, as well as being non-comedogenic meaning it won’t clog your pores. This product can be used on the face and body. It is especially good for those with sensitive/dry skin as it won’t cause further irritation or dryness.

My Skin Type

I’d say I have combination skin, a little oily around the T-Zone area but dry/sensitive everywhere else, especially around the mouth and cheeks. While this product is aimed at those with dry/sensitive skin, it generally works for all skin types. If your skin is particularly oily however, try Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser. I like to switch between the two products between the winter/summer months, as I find my skin gets oilier in the summer and drier in the winter.

Directions for use

Cleansers should generally be used twice a day, once first thing in the morning and prior to sleeping. You should always cleanse prior to application of any moisturiser/serums.

When using a facial cleanser, ensure you are thorough to effectively remove dirt and debris. Pay particular attention to any problem areas as these often need more work. Try and use cool/lukewarm water as hot water is more effective at stripping oils, therefore causing dryness.

After cleansing, ensure you follow up with moisturiser to restore any lost moisture due to cleansing, keeping your skin soft and hydrated. If you have any serums apply these before moisturising.

The Results

As this is simply a cleanser, the results won’t necessarily be groundbreaking. However, it forms the base of any skincare routine and is essential to improve efficacy of products you apply after cleansing.

Day 1

In the past I’ve used products which contain detergents, which controlled the oiliness in my T-Zone but aggravated the dryness in the surrounding areas. Using this product for the first time left my face looking and feeling clean, without the dryness I typically associate with cleansing. This meant I used less moisturiser than I usually would. One thing to note is that this product doesn’t foam/lather up like typical soaps, as it is soap/detergent free.

Day 7

Using this product in combination with exfoliating serums has yielded good results, my skin is clear and there is reduced dryness around my cheek and mouth areas. No significant changes here, but I wouldn’t have expected there to be.

Day 30

Consistency is critical to ensure your receive the full benefits of any product you use. Too many times I hear that a certain product isn’t immediately helping, but most of these items take time to really make a difference.

30 days in I feel my skin is significantly more hydrated, even when I don’t moisturise. Using harsher soaps these past few years had really taken a toll on my complexion, and I feel this has been slightly reversed.

The Verdict

It does what it says on the tin. Cleanses your skin without overly drying, everything you could ask from a skin cleanser. This is our favourite cleanser here at Obviously Skincare, and we recommend you give it a go. Link to Amazon.