My Honest Review of CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar (2025)

When it comes to skincare, finding the right cleanser is crucial, especially for those of us with normal to oily skin. With so many options on the market, I was curious to try the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar, a product designed to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. After using it consistently, I’ve put together my honest review, covering everything from its packaging to its effectiveness. If you’re considering adding this cleanser to your routine, read on for all the details!

Packaging

At first glance, the packaging of the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar is pretty straightforward. It comes in a simple cardboard box, which is great from an environmental perspective since it’s recyclable and minimizes plastic waste. The design follows CeraVe’s signature style—clean, minimalistic, and informative. The box is easy to open and close, and the bar itself is white, smooth, and firm. While the packaging isn’t particularly unique or eye-catching, it’s practical and does the job well. Plus, all the essential information, including ingredients and directions, is clearly printed on the box.

Ingredients

One of the reasons I was drawn to this cleanser is its dermatologist-approved formula. It contains a mix of natural and synthetic ingredients, with some standout additions:

• Ceramides – Help to restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier.
• Hyaluronic Acid – Known for its ability to retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated.
• Niacinamide – Helps calm redness and inflammation, making it a good option for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.
• Kaolin Clay – A natural ingredient that absorbs excess oil without over-drying the skin.

The bar is soap-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. It’s also hypoallergenic and pH-balanced, which is reassuring for those with sensitive skin. However, I noticed that some users report irritation when mixing this product with certain skincare treatments. If you use strong actives like retinol or acids, a patch test might be a good idea.

Scent

While the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar is fragrance-free, I picked up on a faint, clean scent that likely comes from its natural ingredients. Interestingly, it contains Methyldihydrojasmonate, which some people with sensitive noses might detect as a light fragrance. Personally, I didn’t find it bothersome, and I appreciate that it doesn’t have any overpowering artificial scents.

Effectiveness

Now, the most important part—does it actually work? In my experience, the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar does an excellent job of removing dirt, oil, and makeup. It produces a rich, creamy lather that spreads easily across the skin and rinses off without leaving residue. My face always feels clean and refreshed, never tight or overly dry.

While it’s not specifically marketed for acne, I did notice a reduction in oiliness and breakouts over time, likely due to the niacinamide and kaolin clay. However, if you wear heavy or waterproof makeup, you might need a separate makeup remover, as this cleanser alone isn’t always enough to remove stubborn eye makeup.

Another thing worth mentioning is that if you have very dry or sensitive skin, you might experience slight tightness after washing. While it didn’t happen to me personally, I’ve seen some reviewers mention this issue. If you’re on the drier side, following up with a good moisturizer might be necessary.

Size and Lifespan

The CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar comes in a 4.5-ounce (127.5g) size, which is quite generous. There’s also a 3-pack option, which can be a great value for money. One thing I appreciate about this bar is its hard texture, making it more durable than some other cleansing bars.

With daily use, I found it lasted for several weeks without breaking or crumbling. However, if left in standing water, it can become soft and mushy over time. To make it last longer, I recommend storing it in a draining soap dish.

Brand Reputation

CeraVe is a well-known and respected skincare brand, founded in 2005 by dermatologists. It specializes in ceramide-based formulas that support skin health. The CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar has received positive reviews from customers and is frequently recommended by dermatologists.

The brand is owned by L’Oréal, and while it is committed to effective, affordable skincare, some consumers wish for more transparency regarding manufacturing and sourcing practices. On the plus side, CeraVe does not test on animals, which is a big win for many skincare lovers.

Price and Value

With a price range of $7 to $10 per bar, the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar is reasonably priced for the quality and ingredients it offers. Given that it lasts for weeks and contains dermatologist-approved ingredients, it’s a cost-effective choice.

CeraVe products are often on sale at drugstores and online retailers, making it easy to grab a good deal. While it doesn’t come in a travel size, the option to purchase a multi-pack adds some value. Overall, I’d say this bar offers great affordability without compromising on quality.

Availability

One of the biggest perks of using CeraVe is that it’s widely available. You can find the Foaming Cleanser Bar in most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. Some users outside the U.S. have mentioned difficulty finding it in physical stores, but online purchasing remains an accessible option.

Overall Rating

After using the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser Bar for a while, I can confidently say it’s a solid skincare option for normal to oily skin types. It delivers on cleansing, oil control, and skin barrier support without irritation. While it’s not perfect—it could be a bit more hydrating and better at removing makeup—it’s a reliable, affordable choice.

Final Score: 8.5/10

Would I repurchase it? Yes! If you’re looking for a soap-free, gentle cleanser that effectively cleanses without clogging pores, this is definitely worth considering.