CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser vs La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser

What are the actual differences?

Which should you choose?

Choose CeraVe if you specifically want the listed combination of three ceramides, glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, or want a formula without listed niacinamide. CeraVe includes Hydrating Facial Cleanser in its sensitive skin range, where ceramides help retain moisture and maintain the skin's protective barrier. Check your bottle's ingredient list before buying, because formulas change.12

Compare prices for the same bottle size rather than comparing the shelf prices alone. Expensive cleansers can contain ingredients similar to inexpensive ones, so the price tag is not a dermatology qualification.3

How should you use your cleanser?

These are general face washing steps, not product specific directions. A cleanser removes oily dirt that water alone cannot shift, which is why the tap is not a complete skincare routine.4

1. 1Wet your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can increase dryness.
2. 2Gently massage cleanser over your face, jaw and neck with your fingertips. Avoid scrubbing brushes and harsh rubbing.
3. 3Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water until cleanser residue is gone.
4. 4Pat gently with a clean towel rather than rubbing.
5. 5Apply moisturizer after washing. For dry skin, apply it while the skin is still damp.

General cleansing guidance covers washing on waking, after exercise and at bedtime. More washing is not automatically better: excessive cleansing removes surface oils and can increase water loss, dryness and irritation. For dry skin, use enough cleanser to remove dirt and oil without aiming for a thick lather.35

What if cleansing burns or leaves you dry?

Sensitive skin can also be oily or dry, so sensitivity alone does not identify which cleanser will suit you. Cleansers can cause irritation or an allergic reaction to an ingredient. Tell a dermatologist if skincare causes burning, stinging or irritation, or if dryness continues despite gentle washing and moisturizing. Persistent dryness needs more than another cleanser purchase.135