# CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [CeraVe](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/cerave)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best cleansers for dry sensitive skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your dry and sensitive skin as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide superior hydration and barrier support, while ceramides and cholesterol actively repair and strengthen your skin barrier.
- The formulation effectively cleanses without stripping, addressing your dry or flaky skin concerns by maintaining moisture levels and enhancing overall skin comfort.
- This product is safe for your skin, featuring a gentle formula with no harsh ingredients and incorporating soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Cholesterol

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Emulsions containing ceramides 1 and 3 improved skin hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in sodium lauryl sulfate-irritated skin of fifteen healthy Asian women compared to a control emulsion. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Botulinum toxin-A encapsulated in phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol nanoliposomes delivered transdermally achieved a diffusion depth of 380 μm and showed a nonsignificant advantage in relieving post-acne scarring compared to hyaluronic acid hydrogel treatment in 12 facial patients. ([Journal of Materials Science. Materials in Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39073502/))
- Topical application of cholesterol sulfate increases stratum corneum thickness and inhibits protease-induced cell dissociation by competitively inhibiting serine proteases in mice and human stratum corneum. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1998](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9699715/))
- Topical lovastatin treatment impairs the recovery of cutaneous permeability barrier function and stratum corneum cholesterol levels after acetone disruption in mice, an effect normalized by simultaneous treatment with mevalonate or cholesterol. ([The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 1990](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2243142/))

## What reviewers say

Many users report it helps with flakiness and soothes irritation, even alongside acne treatments. Some users dislike the lotion-like texture, finding it leaves a film or is insufficient for removing heavy makeup.

- Liked: Non-stripping hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Extremely gentle (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Poor makeup removal (often mentioned)
- Liked: Beneficial ingredients (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Creamy texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: "Unclean" feeling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Burning sensation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleanser AM and PM every day to keep your face fresh. Start slowly once a day if your dry skin feels sensitive at first.
- Apply your cleanser first thing in your routine before any toner or moisturizer. Follow the usual steps for your AM or PM daily routine.
- Gently massage the cleanser onto your face using soft circular motions. Avoid harsh rubbing to protect your dry skin.
- Apply the cleanser to slightly damp skin to help it clean gently without stripping moisture. This method is very safe for sensitive and dry skin types.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and avoid the delicate eye area. Always do a patch test before using the product for the first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser one of the best fits for dry sensitive skin?

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is one of the best fits for your dry sensitive skin because its glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide superior hydration and barrier support while ceramides and cholesterol actively repair and strengthen your skin barrier. The gentle formula cleanses effectively without stripping your skin, maintaining moisture levels and enhancing overall comfort.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate make this cleanser a great fit because they provide deep hydration and support the skin barrier, while ceramides and cholesterol actively repair and strengthen it. These ingredients help cleanse your skin without stripping away essential moisture, keeping dry and sensitive skin comfortable and smooth.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

### What do Ceramides do for dry sensitive skin?

Ceramides help hydrate dry sensitive skin and strengthen its outer barrier to reduce water loss and calm irritation. Using a product with ceramides often improves skin comfort and makes the skin feel much softer.
Sources: [International Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18717861/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser fits into both your morning and evening routine as the first step on bare skin. Using a gentle daily cleanser helps wash away impurities while maintaining moisture levels and keeping dry, sensitive skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can I use this cleanser with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cleanser with retinol by washing your face with it before applying your retinol treatment to help keep your skin calm and hydrated. Using gentle cleansers with ceramides and hydrating ingredients supports your skin barrier and may reduce dryness and irritation from retinol.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/), [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser twice a day in your morning and evening routines. Using a mild cleanser daily helps improve dryness and keeps your skin comfortable without stripping away needed moisture.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for dry sensitive skin, as it features a gentle formula with soothing ingredients that cleanses without stripping moisture. Breakouts are a low complaint among reviewers.

### Can I use this cleanser around the eyes or on my body?

Yes, you can use this gentle cleanser around your eyes and on your body because its mild formula effectively cleanses without stripping moisture, making it safe for delicate areas and drier skin types.

### Is this cleanser fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $16.97 at Amazon
- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $19.99 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE IN Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/torriden/dive-in-cleansing-foam/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $17.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $28.05 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $16.97 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RL88DD2?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Peg-40 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Glyceryl Stearate, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Cetyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 20, Ethylhexylglycerin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its 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. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/hydrating-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin