Foaming Facial
Cleansers

Facial cleansers are an important first step in any skincare regimen for healthy-looking skin. These skincare essentials create the foundation upon which the rest of your routine lies. CeraVe’s face cleansers are developed with dermatologists to gently and effectively remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil from your skin. Our range of cleansing formulas can also help target specific skin concerns (such as acne or rough and bumpy skin) and deliver additional complexion-enhancing benefits. 

Facial cleansers come in many forms, such as cleansing balms and soap-free cleanser bars, that create different levels of lather. Foaming cleansers typically begin as a gel or cream consistency and transform into a rich, foaming lather when combined with water. Foaming formulas are considered highly effective at cleansing the skin of excess oil and dirt, and providing deep-cleansing benefits. This makes them especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types. 

Foaming cleansers are known for their ability to deeply cleanse and provide a refreshed skin feel. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, for example, is formulated to help remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup from your skin’s surface. Our fragrance-free foaming cleanser formulas provide gentle, yet effective cleansing benefits—without stripping your skin of important moisture. They rinse off easily and leave your skin feeling smooth, soft, and comfortable.

CeraVe foaming facial cleansers can be used by most skin types as part of a comprehensive skincare regimen. However, foaming cleansers tend to be most suitable for those with oily and acne-prone skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).¹ Remember: Choosing a facial cleanser is largely a matter of personal preference, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. For help finding the right cleanser for you, check out our tips on how to choose a face wash for your skin type.

CeraVe’s foaming face cleansers are generally recommended for those with oily and acne-prone skin. If you prefer a foaming cleanser formula but have sensitive or dry skin, we recommend trying a gentle, hydrating formula like CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser. This mild cleanser transforms into a delicate foam that gently removes dirt, oil, and makeup. It makes a great option for those with dry skin who want to enjoy the hydrating benefits of a cream cleanser and the refreshing feel of a foaming cleanser. 

Our foaming facial cleansers for acne-prone skin include a range of options to support clear, healthy-looking skin. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, for example, is formulated to thoroughly dissolve dirt and excess oil, while clearing acne with 4% benzoyl peroxide. Those with acne-prone skin can also try CeraVe Acne Foaming Cleanser with 10% benzoyl peroxide, which offers the maximum strength of benzoyl peroxide available in over-the-counter acne treatments for face and body.

For a foaming cleanser option that is formulated to clear acne, reduce blackheads, and improve the appearance of pores, we recommend CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser with 2% salicylic acid. This gel-to-foam cleanser works by gently exfoliating and penetrating clogged pores to control acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads.

We recommend choosing a foaming cleanser that’s designed for your specific skin type and skin concerns. When choosing the best foaming facial cleanser for your needs, it’s also important to look for a formula that will deeply cleanse, without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture barrier. CeraVe foaming cleansers are formulated to help maintain your skin’s protective barrier and lock in moisture. 

Our fragrance-free foaming cleansers feature beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe’s non-drying foaming facial cleansers thoroughly cleanse, remove dirt and excess oil, and refresh your skin—creating the perfect start to your skincare regimen.

Cleanser is the first step in your daily skincare routine. To use CeraVe’s foaming facial cleansers, wet your skin with lukewarm water and massage the cleanser onto your skin in a gentle circular motion. Rinse well, pat dry, and continue on with the rest of your daytime or nighttime CeraVe routine. For inspiration, explore our Skincare Routines page and find a CeraVe routine that fits your skin type and skincare goals.

1. “Dermatologists’ Top Tips for Relieving Dry Skin.” American Academy of Dermatology Association, 2022.