What is Cetaphil? Uses, warnings & side effects

Medically reviewed by Karen BergerPharm.D.
Licensed Pharmacist
Updated Dec 18, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020
Fact Checked

Cetaphil is a brand-name family of skincare products, including moisturizers (to hydrate the skin barrier), cleansers, makeup removers, and other products. Active ingredients in many Cetaphil products include glycerin, allantoin, and propylene glycol (PEG), all common ingredients in skincare products. Cetaphil does not contain drying or irritating alcohols. The alcohols in Cetaphil, such as cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, are larger molecules. They trap water and help moisturize the skin. 

Cetaphil was invented in 1947 by a pharmacist. The first product was called Cetaphil Cleansing Lotion. Today, it’s called Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and uses the same formula. Galderma performs research and testing focused on improving the resilience of your skin. Cetaphil products are available in more than 70 countries throughout the world and are recommended by many healthcare professionals as part of a skin care regimen for their patients.

Cetaphil overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Cetaphil

Generic Names:

  • Varies

Uses:

  • Skin redness, eczema, sensitive skin, dry skin, acne, aging, and other skin conditions

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Skincare

Forms:

  • Various cleansers, creams, lotions

How it’s taken:

  • Topically

What is Cetaphil used for?

Cetaphil is a skincare brand made by Galderma Labs. There are various products with different uses, including:

  • Facial cleansers that remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities

  • Skin and body cleansers

  • Moisturizing lotions and creams for the face, eyes, and body

  • Facial serums

  • Sunscreen

  • Baby products

  • And others

Key takeaways

  • Cetaphil offers many different products that can address different needs, from general skincare to specific needs such as acne and eczema. 

  • If you have a local reaction, such as skin irritation, stop using the product. Consult your doctor for medical advice. If you have an allergic reaction, which is rare, get emergency medical help.

What form(s) does Cetaphil come in?

Cetaphil is available in many forms to suit the needs of many people, including various cleansers, creams, lotions, and other products that are appropriate for general use and also address various concerns of patients such as eczema, sensitive skin, dryness, oil control, acne treatments, redness, and aging. Each product has a different formula and ingredients, based on the specific uses.

How to take Cetaphil

  • Use Cetaphil according to package directions.

  • Consult a healthcare provider such as a dermatologist if you have questions or concerns regarding skincare.

What to do if you miss a dose of Cetaphil

Cetaphil contraindications - Who shouldn't take Cetaphil?

  • Cetaphil products contain different ingredients based on the individual product. Check the ingredients, and do not use any Cetaphil product that contains an ingredient that you are allergic to. Consult a healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns.

Cetaphil warnings

Cetaphil interactions & what to avoid when taking Cetaphil

Cetaphil side effects - How does Cetaphil make you feel?

Some people may experience local reactions where the product is applied. If you are concerned, you can try applying it to a very small area to ensure your skin does not react, before applying it to a larger area. Local reactions may include redness, itching, burning, or irritation. If you experience any of these reactions, stop using the product. You may want to consult a physician or pharmacist to get a recommendation for a product that is better suited to your needs. 

Allergic reactions are rare. If you have symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, get emergency medical help.

Sources:

Medically reviewed by Karen BergerPharm.D.
Licensed Pharmacist

After receiving her doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Karen Berger, Pharm.D., has worked in both chain and independent community pharmacies. She currently works at an independent pharmacy in New Jersey. Dr. Berger enjoys helping patients understand medical conditions and medications—both in person as a pharmacist, and online as a medical writer and reviewer.

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