I came across this very affordable brand, CeraVe, online quite a while back. It was one of those USA “drugstore” brands that I pine for halfway across the world, because everyone raves about it especially for sensitive skin, but I can’t get hold of it for so many reasons. But when I found it out was available here in Malaysia, I was off to the pharmacies like Speedy Gonzales! You couldn’t see me for the dust I left behind!
Unhappily, we appear to only have a tiny little selection available here in Malaysia, but hey, at least we get it! UPDATE: Cerave is as of 2017, no longer available in Malaysia. I’ve set out below where else you can buy it. I picked up the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, targeted at dry to normal skin. Oh hey, that’s me!
CeraVe (I have no idea how to pronounce it, so I call it ‘sera-vee’ in my head – let me know if you know!) is one of those dermatological brands, that remind me of Cetaphil. In fact, at the local pharmacy, it’s located near Cetaphil, Seba-med etc in the most obscure shelf you can find by the bath products, on the lowest shelf. You’d have to stoop down and really PEER at the shelves to be sure you can see anything, and then you’d be rewarded by the sight of 3 items. LOL! I kid you not! There were just 3 items from this brand on the shelf of the pharmacy I went to (Caring) and 2 items from each product. It’s like sifting sand for gold dust.
At normal times, I’m sure that you, like me, wouldn’t give this one a second look. It isn’t pretty, it’s obscure, and it’s really quite cheap, that you start questioning if it’s any good at all. Well, it is. So, aren’t you glad I found you a very affordable and good cleanser? Now, say thank you nicely :P
The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (bright green label) is formulated for those with normal to dry skin. If you are reading this and thinking “Darn! I have oily skin! Boo!” There is also a CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser (light green label) that is just as highly rated so you might be more interested in that one instead.
What makes the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser so awesome for dry skin is this – it doesn’t strip the skin while cleansing, and it feels gentle while it cleanses. The ingredients are supposed to be very beneficial, and mimics the skin barrier so it doesn’t strip the oils from your skin. This makes it also very good for those with sensitive skin, whose skin may get red and irritated by the slightest rubbing or harsh ingredients. I don’t have sensitive skin so I can’t tell you if it’ll be good for that, but it does feel gentle on my skin.
This is how the product looks when you pump it out of the bottle. It is opaque and it isn’t creamy the way cream cleansers are. It has a slight translucency around the edges, and it reminds me of starch after it’s been cooked.
It also does not foam up, and it doesn’t quite feel like a cream cleanser either. It applies on skin rather like a lotion, as opposed to a cleansing product. However, it washes off easily with just water, leaving a bit of a residue behind on skin. Your skin will not feel squeaky clean (it should NEVER feel squeaky clean, please!) but it doesn’t feel uncomfortable either. It just feels clean and hydrated, the way skin should feel.
I use the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser as my evening second cleanse, leaving it in my shower. I could also use it in the morning if I wanted, but despite the claims of it being gentle, I do find that if I double up on use, it actually does seem to strip my skin a little.
So, I only keep it for use once a day, and pick it for the evening because I already have other cream cleansers I use in the morning. I won’t use this as a makeup remover, or as a first cleanse, because it quite frankly, is shite at the job :P Use a proper makeup remover or a cleansing balm or oil as your first cleanse, then use this as your second cleanse.
Personally, I’m happy with it. It’s very affordable, and it works. You really cannot ask for more! Oh, one more thing. Don’t ask me to compare with the famed Cetaphil cleanser. If you can believe it, I’ve never used Cetaphil :P
IN A NUTSHELL
The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is targeted at those with normal to dry skin. If you have oily skin you do not want this, you want the Foaming Facial Cleanser. The texture feels like a lotion, but it rinses off easily, without foaming up. It doesn’t leave my skin feeling dry unless I use it twice a day, in which case it does after a few days. I use this as a second cleanse. You could use it in the morning if you prefer. I just prefer using something else. It’s useless at removing makeup so use a proper cleansing balm or cleansing oil for that purpose. This isn’t meant for that. All in all, a very affordable and effective product.
PROS: Affordable, Gentle, Leaves skin feeling comfortable and not dry after washing, Rinses off easily, Not fragrances, Easy to dispense product, Pump on bottle locks so it is very portable
CONS: Does not remove makeup, Feels a little drying on my skin if I use twice a day, Hard to find locally unless you buy it online
WHO WILL LIKE THIS: Anyone who has dry skin, Anyone who understands how cream cleansers work, Anyone familiar with non-foaming cleansers
PRICE: RM27.90 or thereabouts for 237ml | US$12.99 for 335ml
WHERE TO BUY:
Caring pharmacy (I got mine here) or some of the smaller, independent pharmacies. I did not see it in Watson’s or Guardian.Buy it online at iHerb (use the code MPW213 for a discount) It isn’t much more expensive online and if you buy other items marked “Shipping Saver” you save a significant amount on shipping.
If you’re interested, here is the ingredient list for the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.
Have you tried this cleanser or any products by CeraVe?
I bought a night cream off iHerb because it was highly rated, and very affordable, so that’s my next foray into the brand. I do think this cleanser is very good especially if the air is making your skin dry, or if you have dry skin. You will naturally apply your serums and creams over this, but it helps to not walk out of the shower with a rictus grin on your face, because your skin feels so tight and dehydrated :P I like this one and my wallet does too!
Paris B
Hey you,
I think this might be a dupe for Avene gentle cleanser for combination skin the one with peachy color cream,non foaming and same texture to cerave.
I have oily combination skin and I love the avene one as my morning cleanser,I might give this one a try next time as this one is way cheaper.
Haven’t tried the Avene cleanser, but hey, this one’s affordable enough to have a go and see if you like it! I think they sell a smaller bottle as well if you don’t want to commit to this size :D There is another foaming cleanser as well by Cerave that many people love!
I use Cera-vee hand cream whenever eczema on my palm acts up. It works WONDERS! My cracked skin will be healed overnight. Kid you not! :)
Wow! I didn’t see the hand cream locally, but I’ll keep it in mind when I place an online order on iherb! I don’t have eczema, but my hands sometimes do get dry from dishwashing (bah!) and it’ll be nice to have an instant soother on hand. Pun intended :P
I’ve tried the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser – very much overrated. It’s okay, just nothing to get excited about, IMHO. Btw, Caroline Hirons and Beautypedia gave pretty bad reviews as well.
Interesting fact: the brand is produced by Galderma, which produces fillers (Restylane). This may be the reason why many dermatologists recommend it…
Have you tried the Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel? Fantastic.
I did read about the bad reviews on Cetaphil cleansers! Maybe that’s why I wasn’t too keen to have a go haha! That said, I know of many people who find it helpful for their skin so perhaps it’s a case of mileage will vary. And you could be right about the mother brand and how it relates to why dematologists recommend it. When I was in hospital, and had these weird hard, dry skin on my hands, the doctor prescribed me cetaphil moisturising cream. I can’t say it’s bad because it did seem to alleviate the tightness in my hands, and on my skin although I was very wary about bringing it near my face – it just was a little too thick for my liking! I haven’t tried Oskia, but it’s one of those I have on my radar. Not sure if I’ll try the gel since I’m not into cleansing gels, but if they have a cream cleanser I’d probably have a go!
I’ve used both Cetaphil (since a year ago) and Cerave (recently). I can say that while I used to vouch for Cetaphil all the time, but Cerave is becoming my new HG face cleanser. I also bought this on a whimp because of the raving reviews online, and I am very happy with my purchase! I think this will be one of my best drugstore finds in 2016! :)
Thanks for sharing Grace! :) Happy to know that this Cerave one gets your preference over Cetaphil (much cheaper too!) LOL :D
I bought this at Caring after I saw Angie of Hot and Flashy use it for her day time (?) routine. I must say, after years of spending too much on products, this was a welcome change; good ingredients in solid and economical packaging. I am interested in the serum because the list of ingredient looks like they would do something, but wish me luck hunting them down. So far I’ve checked out Caring BV and Caring Avenue K. Nothing at Watsons nor Guardian. I’ve also checked out Boots next door, NADA. So online it is, I suppose.
I hear you Ishi! It’s always such a pleasure finding a good, and affordable skincare product. For me, I always experience that little burst of joy and excitement when I stumble on one, because it’s really quite rare isn’t it? I hadn’t come across the serum although I hear the moisturisers are pretty decent too. Good luck finding the serum and hopefully it lives up to expectations! :D
PARIS, I had a helluva breakout using Laneige Sleeping pack (twice!) and I can vouch you that this is my lifesaver! Bought together with the moisturizer and never regret any of it. I’ve tried Sothys (good as well but harsh on my thin wallet), Physiogel (so much similar to Sothys – even the scent!) and my oh my…. CERA VE winsssssss all the time!
Yay! Thanks for sharing and happy you like this too! I’m sorry to hear though that your skin didn’t like the Laneige Sleeping Pack :( But I guess it’s one of those things – can’t suit everyone! But I’m glad this helped :D
It is also selling in AA pharmacy in Bangsar, quite a few ringgit cheaper as well, i went there earlier this year.
http://www.dishwithvivien.com/2016/11/aa-pharmacy-lucky-garden-bangsar/
I was told that too! It looks like it’s only available in the smaller pharmacies
I recently picked this up too and although I have somewhat oily skin, it tends to be more on the dehydrated side. And I have sensitive skin. Anyhoo the cleanser is not bad for its price. I think Cerave is much better than Cetaphil for me as I find the latter to be rather clogging.
It’s funny how I have been told by many how wonderful cetaphil cleansers are especially for their sensitive skin and then I’m now being told that it isn’t really that great LOL It’s interesting how viewpoints change over time.
Hey PB! I have tried the Cerave Moisturizing Lotion but my aged skin quickly got bored of it and demanded I get something more moisturizing. I found the Moisturizing Cream which delivers enough moisture to keep everyone happy! I stumbled upon these at M+ Pharmacy and Natural Remedies at the lower ground of the old Bangsar Village. This pharmacy is a treasure trove of great items you don’t see elsewhere. This is where I get my Bioderma too and the natural remedies part of this pharmacy is pretty interesting.
Hi Jackie, I know the pharmacy in BV that you mean! I wandered in there one day to take a peep and yes, you do get a lot of “cult” pharmacy products in there. I still have to try that night moisturiser that I bought, so I better break it out and have a go! I do find that for sufficient moisture, I do have to layer on lotions and serums, instead of just depending on a cream. It feels more comfortable that way too :)
I have heard many good things about this cleanser and was tempted to pick it up when I saw this at Caring. But it reminds me of Cetaphil and that’s when I stopped. I didnt like Cetaphil very much. Despite having combo-dry psycho skin, Cetaphil gave me bumps. So wasn’t too impressed. I’ve found cleanser-peace with a homegrown organic castille soap but I am always keen to try out other affordable skincare stuff. Maybe I’ll get me a bottle…hmmmm
Texturally, I think it’s different from Cetaphil. but don’t quote me! :D I’m actually fascinated that so many people now tell me that Cetaphil doesnt really work for them. At one time, everyone was going on and on about it, I felt left out for not ever trying it before! :D There is a small bottle of this cleanser on the shelves. Smaller I mean. Maybe you can try that first :)
Cethapil worst product ever . It makes my eczema worst . Cant belive they are still selling it . I am looking for the cerave moisturiser now . Cannot agree with the cleanser. I giving QV Cleanser a go after looking at the formula . Cannot agree with QV moisturiser cant mix with Vitamin C as it can cause issue . They have a really complicated relationship with Niaciminide (cant mix together). Currently using The Ordinary and Finishing all my old stock .
Hi! came across your post regarding Cerave cleanser. Great post btw, very helpful!!!!! Regarding the Caring pharmacy you went to, is it possible for you to tell where is it? I’ve been to several Caring but I cant seem to locaye Cerave products. Thank you!
I think it was at Caring Publika or perhaps at Mid Valley. It’s hard to find at the range is very small and hidden. Look in the lower shelves near the “sensitive skin” products like Cetaphil, Seba-med etc.
Hello…may you try to find out if this product is halal to use or not? I am very careful when using overseas product since im not sure about the ingredients. but, i found that this product is great for eczema, so i really want to try it. thank you in advance. :)
Hi I’m afraid I won’t know. Try contacting the manufacturer or brand directly to find out – they should be able to tell you.
Dear,
Have you found out if this product is Halal or not? I have sent a question regarding this to their company through their website but there is still no response. If you already know, would you like to inform me to my email, [email protected]
I will really appreciate it if you can,
Thanks
Hi!
Do you know where to find this cleanser apart from Caring Pharmacy? I’ve been using this cleanser for 10 months or so and when I go back to Caring to rebuy it, sadly they said that Caring has discontinued their distribution of Cerave.
I was very, very sad because I finally found the cleanser that happily suits my skin and doesn’t strip it off and also very cheap.
I’ve tried looking for it online but the prices are way too expensive compared to Caring.
Or do you have any suggestion for other cleansers that are similar to Cerave in terms of ingredients and price?
Hi Afifa, Oh I wasn’t aware that Caring Pharmacy no longer sells it. It was a good product. I don’t know if you can try some of the smaller pharmacies, depending on where you live. But if not, you can buy Cerave off iHerb as well. Here’s the link to this cleanser https://iherb.co/22MphofN and if you use the code MPW213 you get 5% off :) If I’m not mistaken, they have the bigger bottle, and it’s actually more affordable than buying here. Have a look :)
Hi, may I know the exact Caring pharmacy that you went to? I looked everywhere in my area but still can’t find it :(
Hi it appears that Cerave is no longer available in Malaysia, last I checked. You can however, get it from Iherb (https://my.iherb.com/c/cerave?rcode=MPW213) where the code MPW213 will get you between 5-10% discount :) I buy mine from there now.
Hi i am currently using Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser i think it doesn’t work on my skin anymore because i been using only Cetaphil from 2017 until now, i am surveying on Cerave but i don’t see any of the products for combination + sensitive skin. I really want to try it at least even for a trial set
Hi from what I understand, Cerave is itself formulated for sensitive skin and they have products for normal-dry and normal-oily skin. But I don’t think I’ve seen trial sets in the brand.
hi may i know do ordering products from iherbs easy with the customs and everything?
Hi, I’ve never had a problem with customs when ordering from iHerb, as long as you keep your total value under RM500. However, some others have experienced issues with the pharmaceutical department, if ordering too many beauty products or supplements. I usually mix it up with some grocery items or pet items, and I have never had a problem :)
Personally, I’ve never had a problem but others have faced issues whether with customs or the pharmaceutical board. I think it depends on your luck really.