Can I use CeraVe Foaming Cleanser twice a day?

Which foaming cleanser do you have?

Check for the full name Foaming Facial Cleanser, because 'foaming' is doing a lot of administrative work across CeraVe's cleanser range. The US Balancing Air Foam Facial Cleanser also has morning and evening directions, but the US Acne Foaming Cleanser with 4% benzoyl peroxide should start at once daily. The steps below follow the Canadian regular Foaming Facial Cleanser directions.123

How to use it morning and night

1. 1At night, if you wear makeup or sunscreen, CeraVe advises using a makeup remover or micellar water before the Foaming Facial Cleanser.
2. 2Wet your face with lukewarm water. Hot water can irritate skin.
3. 3Use one pump and gently massage onto wet skin with your fingertips in circular motions. About 20 seconds is enough; a brush or washcloth is unnecessary.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and gently pat dry with a soft towel.
5. 5Follow with your serums or treatments, then moisturizer. In the morning, finish with broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

What should twice daily washing do?

The regular cleanser removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup rather than exfoliating, despite the foam's convincing impression of extra activity. Its ceramides help support the skin barrier, the protective outer layer that keeps moisture in, and hyaluronic acid helps maintain moisture balance. Twice daily cleansing can reduce oiliness and help prevent clogged pores. Treat the regular Foaming Facial Cleanser as a cleansing step, not as the benzoyl peroxide acne wash.1356

What if your skin feels dry or tight?

Choose based on how your skin feels after washing, not just whether it gets shiny later. CeraVe generally points oily and combination skin toward the Foaming Facial Cleanser, and dry or sensitive skin toward the Hydrating Cleanser. Some people with dry skin can use the foaming version with a rich moisturizer. Moisturizer still belongs after cleansing for oily skin, because removing oil is not a request to remove moisture.16

Cold weather, wind, and indoor heating can increase dryness, itching, flaking, and sensitivity, so a cleanser that felt comfortable in summer can become a less useful choice in winter. Apply moisturizer to slightly damp skin to help trap moisture. If discomfort persists or you need help choosing a suitable routine, see a dermatologist.46

Should you wash more often?

General face washing guidance is to limit washing to twice a day, plus after heavy sweating. Wash as soon as possible after sweating, especially under a hat or helmet, because perspiration irritates skin. Keep each wash gentle: scrubbing does not make your face cleaner and can cause irritation. More force is not a substitute for a suitable cleanser.45

If you mean the Acne Foaming Cleanser

For the US Acne Foaming Cleanser containing 4% benzoyl peroxide, start once daily and gradually increase to twice daily if needed. Apply a dime size amount to damp skin across the affected area, gently massage, and rinse well. Avoid the eyes, lips, and mouth. If bothersome dryness or peeling develops, reduce use to once daily or every other day. Do not use it on very sensitive skin or if you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide.3

Using another topical acne medication alongside this wash increases the likelihood of dryness and irritation. If irritation occurs, use only one topical acne medication at a time. Stop the wash and ask a doctor if irritation becomes severe. Avoid unnecessary sun exposure, apply sunscreen before going outside, and keep the wash away from hair and dyed fabrics because it can bleach them.3