CeraVe vs. Cetaphil: Which Drugstore Brand Is Right for You?

It’s an age-old truth that expensive doesn’t always mean better, especially when it comes to skin care. Drugstore hero brands CeraVe and Cetaphil are great examples of this. Both are beloved by dermatologists and beauty connoisseurs alike for their affordable, science-backed formulas that are even suitable for sensitive skin types.

At face value, they appear to be quite similar—they even have comparable packaging and price points, too. Which begs the question: How do they differ? And is one actually superior?

To bring you answers, I consulted two board-certified dermatologists: Dr. Adeline Kikam, founder of Skinclusive Dermatology in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and New York City-based Dr. Kiran Mian. Keep reading for their intel on how to choose the best brand for you.

CeraVe Overview

Compared to Cetaphil, CeraVe is rather new to the scene. It launched in 2005 and set out to treat skin concerns like acne, eczema, and psoriasis that can compromise the skin barrier.

Every CeraVe product is developed with dermatologists and features three key ceramides, or naturally-occurring lipids that form a protective layer on the skin and help maintain its barrier function. Depending on your needs, you can also find anything from nourishing hyaluronic acid to brightening vitamin C and exfoliating salicylic acid-infused options. “CeraVe has various products to suit different skin types,” says Dr. Mian. “For example, their Moisturizing Cream is suitable for dry skin, while their ultra-lightweight lotion is a great lighter option for oily skin,” she adds.

Cetaphil Overview

Uniquely, Cetaphil has been tending to sensitive skin since 1947. “The brand focuses on creating effective skincare with minimal ingredients, especially non-irritating ones, so that their products are suitable for everyone,” says Dr. Mian. “Key ingredients include glycerin, panthenol, and other soothing factors,” she adds.

Similar to CeraVe, Cetaphil offers a wide range of formulas to help round out your routine, including cleansers, serums, eye creams, sunscreens, and body products.

How do CeraVe and Cetaphil differ?

While both brands offer gentle formulas, they do have some major differences. “CeraVe is deeply focused on ceramide technology for barrier repair, making it a great choice for dry, acne-prone, and eczema-prone skin,” explains Dr. Kikam. “Cetaphil, on the other hand, is known for its simpler, dermatologist-tested formulations that target skin sensitivity, redness, and irritation.”

“For dry skin, CeraVe’s Moisturizing Cream delivers long-lasting hydration with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, while Cetaphil’s Moisturizing Cream offers a lighter, glycerin-based alternative for sensitive skin,” she adds. For anyone with extremely reactive skin, she recommends Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser due to its “ultra-mild formulation.”

Another variation (albeit slight) between the two brands: CeraVe products tend to cost a little bit more than Cetaphil alternatives—though nearly every item from each label still clocks in under $20.

Can I use CeraVe and Cetaphil together?

Yes! If you’re still torn, the good news is “their formulations complement each other, so you can mix and match based on your skin’s needs,” says Dr. Kikam. For those with oily, acne-prone skin, she recommends using Cetaphil’s Gentle Clear Clarifying Acne Cream Cleanser followed by CeraVe’s PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. Meanwhile, she suggests those with sensitive and inflammation-prone skin opt for Cetaphil’s Redness Relieving Foaming Face Wash and CeraVe’s Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion.

Looking for even more inspiration? Keep scrolling to shop more of our experts’ top picks, below.