Cetaphil vs ISDIN
Cetaphil and ISDIN are well-regarded skincare brands offering gentle daily support that maintains a healthy and balanced complexion. Cetaphil is an American brand founded in 1947, widely loved for cleansers, moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and more that suit combination skin and oily acne-prone skin best. Meanwhile, the Spanish brand ISDIN, founded in 1975, is favored for elegant moisturizers, advanced sunscreens, restorative serums, and targeted eye products that suit dry skin and sensitive skin best. The brands differ primarily in their formulation focus and ideal skin types, with both utilizing thoughtfully balanced ingredients to provide essential care.
Cetaphil is an American skincare brand founded in 1947 and owned by Galderma Group AG.
en.wikipedia.orgcetaphil.co.uk
ISDIN is a Spanish skincare brand founded in 1975 and owned by Puig.
puig.combeautymatter.comuploads.puig.com
This page compares some of the most popular Cetaphil and ISDIN products; for every product of both brands, with a fit score for your own skin, use the Lovi app.
Popular Cetaphil vs ISDIN products
People Say
Gentle for sensitive skin Mostly MentionedOften Mentioned
- “The only thing my reactive skin tolerates. — Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser”
- “No breakouts since switching to this. — Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser”
- “cleans without stripping — Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser”
- “Sensitive/reactive skin tolerates — ISDIN Hyaluronic Moisture”
Lightweight and non-greasy Often MentionedMostly Mentioned
- “absorbs instantly — ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica”
- “ultra-light fluid product, which makes it super easy to apply — ISDIN Fusion Water”
- “Lightweight formula absorbs fast — ISDIN Hyaluronic Concentrate”
- “absorbs instantly — Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion”
Hydrating and non-stripping Mostly MentionedMostly Mentioned
- “cleared up flaky skin — Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream”
- “healed my dry patches — Cetaphil Moisturising Cream”
- “Improved moisture and texture — ISDIN Hyaluronic Moisture”
- “My skin felt sooo hydrated and looks so plump and dewey. — ISDIN Fusion Water”
Skin smoothing and texture improvements Sometimes NotedRarely Noted
- “Skin felt softer after one use — Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser”
- “Micro-fine granules don't irritate — Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub”
- “skin was much smoother — ISDIN Retinal Intense Serum”
Versatile use and daily cleansing Often MentionedNot noted
- “great for face and body — Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream”
- “recommended by my derm — Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser”
- “removes excess oil — Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser”
Brightening and complexion benefits Rarely NotedSometimes Noted
- “My hyperpigmentation has lightened and skin looks more even, even shines more. — ISDIN Flavo-C Serum”
- “skin looks immediately luminous — ISDIN K-Ox Eyes”
- “skin looks more radiant — Cetaphil Vitamin C Serum”
Packaging and price complaints Rarely NotedMostly Mentioned
- “hate dipping fingers in — Cetaphil Moisturising Cream”
- “wish it had a pump — Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream”
- “expensive for drugstore — Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream”
- “very expensive — ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica”
Strong scent or fragrance concerns Sometimes NotedOften Mentioned
- “Overpowering masking fragrance — Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar”
- “Scent is overwhelmingly artificial. — Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser”
- “smell is overpowering — ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica”
Formula changes and irritation Sometimes NotedRarely Noted
- “I think the serum is too strong for my face as it has burned and left very rough and a peeling face. — ISDIN Flavo-C Serum”
- “slight peeling — ISDIN Retinal Intense Serum”
- “New version burns my face. — Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser”
Cetaphil vs ISDIN routines for dry skin
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Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$20.19
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Hydrating Toner
Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
Morning
CA$27.99
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Moisturizer
Tata Harper Repairative Moisturizer
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$162.00
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SPF
Fusion Water
Morning
CA$69.99
-
Pre-Cleanser
MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream
Evening · Once a week
CA$17.99
-
Serum or Treatment
Flavo-C Serum
Evening · Once a week
CA$65.00
-
Nourishing Mask
MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask
Once a week
CA$29.99
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Cleanser
Gentle Skin Cleanser
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$17.97
-
Hydrating Toner
Healthy Radiance Brightness Refresh Toner
Morning
CA$23.37
-
Moisturizer
Rich Hydrating Night Cream
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$17.96
-
SPF
Daily Facial Moisturizer
Morning
CA$17.97
-
Pre-Cleanser
MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream
Evening · Once a week
CA$17.99
-
Serum or Treatment
Gentle Exfoliating SA Lotion
Evening · Once a week
CA$22.79
-
Nourishing Mask
MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask
Once a week
CA$29.99
Buy ISDIN routine · CA$393.15 · 94% fit
Buy Cetaphil routine · CA$148.04 · 80% fitSee multi-brand routine · 99% fit
Cetaphil vs ISDIN routines for oily skin
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Cleanser
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$20.96
-
Hydrating Toner
Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
Morning · Once a week
CA$37.60
-
Moisturizer
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion (with Birch Sap)
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$29.98
-
SPF
Fusion Water
Morning
CA$69.99
-
Pre-Cleanser
Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil
Evening · Once a week
CA$23.99
-
Cleansing Toner
Pixi Glow Tonic
Evening
CA$28.90
-
Serum or Treatment
Flavo-C Serum
Evening · Once a week
CA$65.00
-
Enzyme Powder
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Once a week
CA$29.50
-
Cleansing Mask
Tatcha The Clarifying Clay Mask
Once a week
CA$95.00
-
Cleanser
Daily Facial Cleanser
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$17.98
-
Hydrating Toner
Healthy Radiance Brightness Refresh Toner
Morning · Once a week
CA$23.37
-
Moisturizer
Ceramide Serum
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$24.53
-
SPF
Oil Control
Morning
CA$16.77
-
Pre-Cleanser
Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil
Evening · Once a week
CA$23.99
-
Cleansing Toner
Pixi Glow Tonic
Evening
CA$28.90
-
Serum or Treatment
Gentle Exfoliating SA Lotion
Evening · Once a week
CA$22.79
-
Enzyme Powder
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Once a week
CA$29.50
-
Cleansing Mask
Tatcha The Clarifying Clay Mask
Once a week
CA$95.00
Buy ISDIN routine · CA$400.92 · 91% fit
Buy Cetaphil routine · CA$282.83 · 84% fitSee multi-brand routine · 96% fit
Cetaphil vs ISDIN routines for combination skin
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Cleanser
Fresh Soy Face Cleanser
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$44.95
-
Hydrating Toner
Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
Morning · Once a week
CA$37.60
-
Moisturizer
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion (with Birch Sap)
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$29.98
-
SPF
Fusion Water
Morning
CA$69.99
-
Pre-Cleanser
Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil
Evening · Once a week
CA$23.99
-
Cleansing Toner
Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0
Evening
CA$31.99
-
Serum or Treatment
Flavo-C Serum
Evening · Once a week
CA$65.00
-
Enzyme Powder
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Once a week
CA$29.50
-
Cleansing Mask
Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay
Once a week
CA$50.00
-
Cleanser
Daily Facial Cleanser
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$17.98
-
Hydrating Toner
Healthy Radiance Brightness Refresh Toner
Morning · Once a week
CA$23.37
-
Moisturizer
Ceramide Serum
Morning · Evening · Once a week
CA$24.53
-
SPF
Oil Control
Morning
CA$16.77
-
Pre-Cleanser
Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil
Evening · Once a week
CA$23.99
-
Cleansing Toner
Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0
Evening
CA$31.99
-
Serum or Treatment
Gentle Exfoliating SA Lotion
Evening · Once a week
CA$22.79
-
Enzyme Powder
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Once a week
CA$29.50
-
Cleansing Mask
Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay
Once a week
CA$50.00
Buy ISDIN routine · CA$383.00 · 92% fit
Buy Cetaphil routine · CA$240.92 · 85% fitSee multi-brand routine · 96% fit
Questions and answers
Cetaphil or ISDIN: which is better?
Both Cetaphil and ISDIN are great choices, with Lovi rating their routines as Superior across nearly all skin types. Cetaphil excels with gentle, non-stripping cleansers and skin-smoothing benefits, while ISDIN stands out for its ultralight sunscreens and brightening effects.
What is the difference between Cetaphil and ISDIN?
Cetaphil is an American brand founded in 1947 that focuses mainly on gentle cleansers and moisturizers with fragrance-free options, whereas ISDIN is a Spanish brand founded in 1975 that is best known for ultralight sunscreens and lightweight moisturizers. Reviewers note that Cetaphil performs better for gentle care on sensitive skin, while ISDIN stands out for lightweight and non-greasy textures.
Cetaphil or ISDIN for dry skin?
Both brands are a strong choice for dry skin, with Lovi giving Cetaphil a High fit level and ISDIN a Superior fit level for dry skin routines. The products on this page help provide hydration, while Niacinamide may help reduce pigmentation and Hyaluronic acid helps improve skin quality and signs of aging.
The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002Dermatologic Therapy, 2022
Cetaphil or ISDIN: which moisturizer is better?
Both Cetaphil and ISDIN offer effective moisturizers, with Lovi fit levels varying widely across specific skin types from Superior to Warning. Cetaphil features key ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide in products such as its Rich Hydrating Night Cream, while ISDIN includes options like Hyaluronic Concentrate that help with hydration.
Which is more affordable, Cetaphil or ISDIN?
Cetaphil is generally more affordable, whereas ISDIN is often noted by reviewers for having a high price point.
Between Cetaphil and ISDIN, which brand offers a wider range of fragrance-free products?
Cetaphil offers a wider range of fragrance-free products on this page, with 26 out of 27 products listing no fragrance, compared to ISDIN where only 3 of the 8 products are fragrance-free.
How do the founding years and countries of origin compare between Cetaphil and ISDIN?
Cetaphil was founded in the United States in 1947, whereas ISDIN was founded in Spain in 1975. Both brands are currently owned by larger parent companies, specifically Galderma Group AG for Cetaphil and Puig for ISDIN.
Which brand performs better for brightening and complexion benefits according to review themes?
According to review themes, ISDIN does better for brightening and complexion benefits.
Cetaphil or ISDIN for oily skin?
For oily skin, both Cetaphil and ISDIN achieve a Superior routine fit level. Reviewers note that the products on this page for Cetaphil provide versatile daily cleansing and gentle care, while ISDIN is recognized for its ultralight sunscreens.
Cetaphil or ISDIN: which sunscreen is better?
Both brands offer strong sunscreen options on this page, with ISDIN particularly noted for ultralight sunscreens and Lovi giving high to superior fit ratings across skin types for both lineups. Cetaphil also provides mostly fragrance-free choices, whereas ISDIN is often reviewed for a higher price point.
Cetaphil or ISDIN for sensitive skin?
Both brands are a strong choice for sensitive skin, with Lovi giving Cetaphil and ISDIN a High and Superior routine fit respectively. Reviewers note that Cetaphil provides gentle, non-stripping cleansers, while ISDIN offers ultralight sunscreens and lightweight moisturizers.
Cetaphil or ISDIN for acne-prone skin?
Both brands offer solid options for acne-prone skin, with Lovi fit levels reaching High across several products in both ranges. ISDIN is often praised by reviewers for its lightweight moisturizers, while Cetaphil is recognized for its gentle, non-stripping cleansers.
Research behind their key ingredients
Effects of menthol and cold on histamine-induced itch and skin reactions in man
Effects of ascorbic acid on gingival melanin pigmentation in vitro and in vivo
Ascorbic Acid Treatments as Effective and Safe Anti-Aging Therapies for Sensitive Skin
Another Reason for Using Caffeine in Dermocosmetics: Sunscreen Adjuvant
A comparative study of gluconolactone versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne
Colloidal Oatmeal <em>(Avena Sativa)</em> Improves Skin Barrier Through Multi-Therapy Activity
The impacts of sodium lauroyl sarcosinate in facial cleanser on facial skin microbiome and lipidome
Supramolecular collagen nanoparticles for anti-wrinkle, skin whitening, and moisturizing effects
Comparison of methods for assessing photoprotection against ultraviolet A in vivo
Safety of a preservative system containing 1,2-hexanediol and caprylyl glycol
Modulating effects of oatmeal extracts in the sodium lauryl sulfate skin irritancy model
Nanocomplex of quaternized cyclodextrin grafted chitosan and hyaluronic acid for a skin delivery
The clinical efficacy of a new emulsion for acne and conspicuous facial pore amelioration
Retrospective Review of Dermal Safety Studies of Organic Sunscreens
Targeting Circadian Rhythm for the Regulation of Skin Collagen Metabolism
Behind this comparison
Lovi compares products by their fit scores, calculated from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules our dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update.
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Co-founder, Medical Director
Cosmetic chemist, cosmetologist, aesthetic products developer
-

Co-founder, CEO and CTO
PhD in computer science, 3x US patent holder, ex-Google, ex-Yandex
-

Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc
Medical Board
Aesthetic medicine practitioner, MSc in Longevity and Anti-Aging Medicine
-

Medical Board
Specialist dermatologist, MBBS, MD, IFAAD
-

Medical Board
Cosmetic chemist, SCS, IFSCC member
-

Medical Board, Medical Advisor
Dermatology MD
-

Elina Nazarenko, MD
Medical Board
Dermatology and diagnostic consultant
-

Victoria Derkova, MS
Medical Board
Cosmetic chemist, cosmetic development technologist
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