Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser - 236ml
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a soap-free, low-lather daily cleanser made for sensitive and dry skin. It gently lifts away dirt, make-up and impurities without stripping the skin or disrupting its natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling soft, clean and comfortable — never tight.
- Soap-free, low-lather formula that cleanses without stripping or over-drying.
- Gentle enough for sensitive, dry and eczema-prone skin — and for daily use.
- Use two ways: rinse off with water, or wipe away with a tissue — no water needed.
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores; suitable for face and body.
- Helps maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving it soft and comfortable.
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External use only
Patch-test if skin is sensitive
Discontinue if irritation occurs
Product overview
About Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a soap-free, low-lather daily cleanser and a long-standing favourite for sensitive skin. This 236ml bottle cleanses the face and body gently, lifting away dirt, grime, make-up and everyday impurities without stripping the skin or upsetting its natural moisture barrier. Where traditional soaps can leave skin feeling tight and uncomfortable, this gentle cleanser is formulated to leave it feeling soft, clean and comfortable instead. Its mild, non-foaming texture is a reassuring choice for anyone whose skin reacts easily, and it's gentle enough for daily use, morning and night.
What makes it so gentle
The secret is as much what it leaves out as what it puts in. It's soap-free and low-foaming, so it cleanses effectively without the harsh surfactants that can disrupt the skin's surface and leave it feeling stripped. A blend of mild cleansing agents and hydrating, conditioning ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol and niacinamide helps to soften and comfort the skin as you cleanse, so it feels cared for rather than parched. Because the formula works with the skin rather than against it, it helps support and maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier — the layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. The result is a thorough yet comfortable cleanse that suits even reactive skin. Always refer to the pack for the full INCI ingredient list.
Two ways to use — with or without water
A feature that sets Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser apart is that it can be used two ways to suit your skin and your circumstances. The first is the classic method: massage a small amount over damp skin, then rinse away with lukewarm water and pat dry. The second is especially handy for very sensitive skin, for travelling, or for times when water simply isn't convenient — massage the cleanser into the skin and then gently wipe it away with a soft tissue or cotton wool, no water required. Both methods leave skin feeling clean and refreshed, giving a flexible cleanse whether you're at the sink, travelling, or caring for skin that prefers the lightest possible touch.
Who it's for
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is suitable for all skin types, and it's a particularly popular choice for sensitive, dry and combination skin. Its gentle, non-stripping formula also makes it a considered option for eczema-prone and easily-irritated skin, where harsher cleansers can feel uncomfortable — though if you have a diagnosed skin condition it's always best to check your routine with a pharmacist or GP. Because it's non-comedogenic, it won't clog pores, so it can also suit oily or blemish-prone skin that wants a mild everyday cleanse rather than a stripping wash. It's gentle enough for the whole family to use on both the face and body, making it a practical one-bottle choice for the whole household.
How to use
For everyday cleansing, use Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser morning and evening. To cleanse with water, wet the face or body with lukewarm water, massage the cleanser gently over the skin using your fingertips, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft towel. To cleanse without water, apply and massage in gently, then wipe away the excess with a soft tissue or cotton wool. Take care to avoid the delicate eye area and don't get the product directly in the eyes. Follow with your usual moisturiser while skin is still slightly damp to help lock in hydration. For heavier or waterproof make-up, you may prefer a dedicated remover first, then cleanse as normal.
Ingredients, fragrance & suitability
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is formulated to be kind to skin that reacts easily, with a mild, soap-free cleansing base supported by hydrating and conditioning ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol and niacinamide. As with any new skincare product — and particularly if your skin is sensitive or reactive — it's sensible to patch-test on a small area first and wait 24 hours before regular use. Formulations can be updated from time to time, so always read the ingredient list and any fragrance information on the pack before use, especially if you have known sensitivities or allergies. If you're unsure whether a product suits you, a pharmacist can offer expert guidance.
Product details
- Active ingredients Soap-free, low-lather cleansing base, Glycerin, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
- Vendor Cetaphil
- SKU 3660859
Important information
For external use only. Avoid the eye area and do not get the product directly in the eyes; if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. If irritation, redness or a reaction occurs, stop using the product. This cosmetic cleanser is not a medicine and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any skin condition — if you have a persistent or worsening skin concern, speak to a pharmacist or GP. Keep out of the reach of children. Store as directed on the pack, away from direct heat and sunlight. Always read the label and any information supplied with the product before use.
Frequently asked questions
How do you use Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser?
You can use it in two ways. To cleanse with water, wet your skin, massage a small amount over the face or body with your fingertips, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Alternatively — ideal for very sensitive skin or when travelling — massage it in and gently wipe it away with a soft tissue or cotton wool, with no water needed. Use it morning and night for everyday cleansing, and avoid getting it directly in the eyes.
Is Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser suitable for sensitive and dry skin?
Yes. It's a soap-free, low-lather cleanser designed specifically to be gentle on sensitive, dry and easily-irritated skin. Because it cleanses without stripping the skin or disrupting its natural moisture barrier, it helps skin feel soft and comfortable rather than tight after washing. It's also considered suitable for eczema-prone skin, though it isn't a treatment for any skin condition — if you have a diagnosed condition, check your routine with a pharmacist or GP.
Is Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser soap-free?
Yes, it's completely soap-free and low-foaming. Traditional soaps can be harsh and leave skin feeling tight and dry, whereas this cleanser uses a milder cleansing system to lift away dirt, oil and impurities gently. That's a big part of why it's such a popular everyday choice for sensitive and dry skin.
Can Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser remove make-up?
It will help remove light, everyday make-up as part of your normal cleanse, lifting away dirt, oil and impurities at the same time. For heavier, long-wear or waterproof make-up you may want to use a dedicated make-up remover first, then follow with the cleanser. Take care to avoid the eye area and don't get the product directly in your eyes.
Is Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser suitable for oily or blemish-prone skin?
Yes — although it's especially loved by those with dry and sensitive skin, it's suitable for all skin types, including oily and blemish-prone skin. It's non-comedogenic, which means it's formulated not to clog pores. It gives a gentle daily cleanse, but it isn't a treatment for acne or blemishes; for persistent breakouts, a pharmacist can point you towards suitable options.
Does Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser contain salicylic acid?
No. The Gentle Skin Cleanser is a mild, soap-free cleanser and does not contain salicylic acid. It's easy to confuse with Cetaphil's separate Gentle Exfoliating (SA) Cleanser, which does contain salicylic acid, so check the product name and pack carefully if that's what you're after. Always read the label to confirm the ingredients.
How often can I use Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser?
It's gentle enough for daily use, so most people cleanse twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening. Because it's non-stripping, it's unlikely to leave skin feeling tight even with regular use. If your skin ever feels dry or reactive, simply cleanse a little less often and follow with a moisturiser.
Can Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser remove sunscreen?
It will help lift away everyday sunscreen along with dirt and impurities during your evening cleanse. For water-resistant or heavy SPF, you may prefer to use a dedicated remover, or a double-cleanse approach, to make sure skin is thoroughly clean. As always, keep the product away from the eye area.
Shipping information
We deliver across mainland UK by Royal Mail Tracked, usually within 3–5 working days.
Delivery is £2.99, or free on orders over £40. You'll get tracking by email once your order is on its way.
For full details, see our Delivery Policy.