Does Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream contain fragrance?

What about versions sold in other countries?

In France, Cetaphil Crème Hydratante carries the wording "Sans parfum ajouté," meaning without added perfume. Its ingredients are not identical to the US list: the French list includes BHT and tocopherol, while the US list does not. Both list benzyl alcohol. Do not assume that the ingredient list for one country describes the tub sold in another.12

How do I check my own tub?

Read the label on the cream you are buying, because "Cetaphil" is a brand name, not a fragrance policy. Cetaphil offers both fragrance free options and other products, so the wording on the individual product matters.3

1. 1Confirm that the product is Moisturizing Cream rather than a lotion or another moisturizer.
2. 2Look for an explicit fragrance free statement on the packaging.
3. 3Read the ingredients for "fragrance" or "parfum." Fragrance ingredients can also be listed individually by name.
4. 4If you have a known ingredient allergy, check the whole list rather than stopping at the fragrance free claim.

Why can a fragrance free cream still smell?

Fragrance free cosmetics should contain no added fragrance ingredients, but other ingredients can have a noticeable smell. A fragrance free cream can therefore have a scent without having a perfume department. Smell alone is not a reliable way to decide whether fragrance was added. "Unscented" means something different: a product without an obvious smell can contain masking fragrance to hide the smell of other ingredients. In the US, these terms do not have specific FDA definitions in regulations, but cosmetic labels must still be truthful and not misleading. For avoiding added fragrance, look for fragrance free rather than relying on "unscented."4

Is it a sensible choice for sensitive skin?

Fragrance free products are a useful choice if some fragrances trigger redness, itching or inflammation. Cetaphil positions Moisturizing Cream for dry to very dry, sensitive skin. Fragrance is only one consideration: a known allergy to another ingredient still matters. For dryness, moisturizers help replenish and seal in moisture, supporting the skin's protective barrier. Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream can be used on both the face and body.35

Does the alcohol in the ingredients change the answer?

The US cream lists cetyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol and phenoxyethanol alongside its fragrance free claim. Do not treat every ingredient with "alcohol" in its name as the same substance. Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that helps seal in moisture. It differs from drying alcohols such as ethanol, denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol, which can disrupt the skin barrier. Phenoxyethanol is commonly used as a preservative. Fragrance free and alcohol free are separate claims.13

How should I use the cream?

Cetaphil tells you to gently massage the US cream into skin until absorbed, use it daily or as often as needed, and apply it directly after a morning shower or evening bath to lock in hydration. The cream has a rich texture and contains glycerin, niacinamide and panthenol. Cetaphil reports hydration lasting up to 48 hours and significant moisture barrier improvement after three days of regular use.1