Product review
CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
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If you want the barrier benefits of a squalane cleanser but prefer a foam, this is the accessible answer. CeraVe pairs squalane with its trademark three ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a foaming oil, so it lathers lightly yet rinses hydrating rather than squeaky.
At 8 oz for a drugstore price, cost per use is negligible, and the ceramide base makes it a sensible everyday cleanser for dry and sensitive skin. Squalane isn't the headline here — it's one of several supporting actives — but it's genuinely in the formula, doing its emollient job.
Two caveats: it contains fragrance, and squalane plays a smaller role than in a dedicated squalane balm. If you want a fragrance-free, squalane-first cleanse, The Ordinary's balm is the better match.
The specs
A foaming oil with squalane, three ceramides and hyaluronic acid — cleanses while supporting the barrier.
Formulated as non-comedogenic; the ceramide base suits dry and sensitive skin.
What we like
- Squalane plus three essential ceramides
- Foams yet stays hydrating, not squeaky
- Large 8 oz bottle, very low cost per use
Keep in mind
- Squalane is one of several actives, not the headline
- Contains fragrance
Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a fragrance-free formula or a squalane-first (rather than ceramide-first) cleanser.
Frequently asked questions
Does CeraVe Foaming Oil Cleanser contain squalane?
Yes — it combines squalane with three ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a foaming oil base, which is why it cleanses without stripping.
Is CeraVe Foaming Oil Cleanser good for dry skin?
It's formulated for dry skin: the ceramides and squalane help it foam gently while supporting the moisture barrier. Note it does contain fragrance.