CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser vs Aveeno Calm + Restore Cleanser

What can you compare before buying?

This comparison concerns the US CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, not Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser or Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser. Check the full name before buying: the Foaming Oil version contains squalane and changes from oil to foam, while the Cream to Foam version changes from cream to foam.2

Which one should you pick?

CeraVe is the straightforward choice if those listed ingredients are what you want. For Aveeno, check the bottle before choosing it specifically for oats, fragrance avoidance or a particular texture. "Calm + Restore" is a product name, not an ingredient list with better typography. Neither name tells you which cleanser your skin will tolerate better.1

For dry or sensitive skin, prioritize a gentle cleanser and fragrance free skincare. Check the current package rather than relying on an old ingredient list, because CeraVe updates its formulas. If the Aveeno bottle lists colloidal oatmeal, that ingredient has moisture holding and soothing properties. Oatmeal applied to skin can also cause allergic contact dermatitis, an allergic skin reaction, so an oat ingredient is not a reason to overlook a known oat allergy.134

How should you wash with either cleanser?

Use these general face washing steps alongside the directions on your cleanser's bottle.

1. 1Wet your face with lukewarm water.
2. 2Apply cleanser with your fingertips. Avoid washcloths, sponges and scrubbing, which can irritate skin.
3. 3Rinse with lukewarm water and gently pat dry with a soft towel.
4. 4If your skin is dry, apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp.

Limit face washing to twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, plus after heavy sweating. More washing is not a substitute for choosing a gentle cleanser. Dry skin still needs moisturizer after cleansing, even when the cleanser's name has already done some moisturizing on paper. A cream or ointment adds more moisture than a lotion.35

When does dryness need more than a different cleanser?

Tell a dermatologist if skincare causes burning, stinging or irritation. If dryness continues despite gentle washing and regular moisturizing, arrange an appointment rather than repeatedly switching cleansers. Persistent dryness can have an underlying medical cause that needs treatment.3