Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

A fragrance-free, vitamin-enriched moisturizer featuring Niacinamide, Panthenol, and Avocado Oil designed to hydrate and restore the skin barrier.

Performance Rating: 4.3

This formula contains a solid blend of proven ingredients. Glycerin acts as a reliable humectant, while Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Panthenol (Vitamin B5) provide excellent barrier support and soothing properties. The inclusion of Avocado Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil offers nourishing fatty acids, and Dimethicone creates a protective seal. However, the presence of Isopropyl Palmitate prevents a higher score; it is an emollient known to be potentially comedogenic (pore-clogging), making this product less suitable for acne-prone skin despite its moisturizing capabilities.

Safety Rating: 4.5

The formulation is notably fragrance-free, which drastically reduces the risk of contact dermatitis and irritation. The preservatives used, Sodium Benzoate and Benzyl Alcohol, are generally well-tolerated, though Benzyl Alcohol can occasionally irritate broken or hyper-sensitive skin. There are no harsh surfactants or controversial ingredients like parabens listed.

Final Rating: 4.4

This is a well-rounded, effective moisturizer ideal for normal to dry skin types. It excels in providing hydration and barrier repair through ingredients like Niacinamide and Vitamin E. While it is a safe and soothing option, the inclusion of Isopropyl Palmitate means those with oily or acne-prone skin should patch test or approach with caution to avoid congestion.

Verdict

This formulation represents a classic, dermatologically-focused approach to daily hydration, prioritizing barrier repair and skin soothing over flashy trends. At its core, the product utilizes a reliable base of Glycerin and Water to provide immediate moisture, while Dimethicone acts as a breathable occlusive to lock that hydration in without feeling heavy or sticky. This makes it an excellent choice for those who dislike the greasy after-feel of heavier creams but still require substantial moisture. The standout feature of this ingredient list is the inclusion of a robust vitamin complex. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a multitasker that helps regulate oil, improve skin texture, and strengthen the barrier, making it a superstar for maintaining overall skin health. Complementing this is Panthenol (Vitamin B5), known for its deep penetrating ability to soothe inflammation and heal the skin, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), which provides essential antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. In terms of emollients, the addition of Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil adds a layer of nourishment. These oils are rich in fatty acids that help soften rough patches and improve skin elasticity. However, there is a significant caveat for certain skin types. The formula contains Isopropyl Palmitate high up on the list. While this ingredient acts as a thickening agent and gives the lotion a luxurious slip, it is known to be moderately comedogenic. This means it has a higher potential to clog pores, which could trigger breakouts in those prone to congestion or acne. Consequently, while the product is likely safe and beneficial for dry or sensitive types, it might be risky for oily or acne-prone individuals. Overall, this is a solid, no-nonsense moisturizer. Its lack of fragrance and inclusion of soothing agents make it a safe harbor for sensitive skin, while the vitamin blend offers tangible benefits beyond simple hydration.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvents / 溶剂

🧪 Water / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The most common base for skincare products.

📁 Moisturizers & Actives / 保湿剂与活性成分

🧪 Glycerin / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Attracts moisture to the skin.

🧪 Panthenol / 泛醇

Purpose: Soothing agent, Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Also known as Pro-Vitamin B5.

🧪 Niacinamide / 烟酰胺

Purpose: Skin-restoring, Brightening

Concerns: May cause flushing in very sensitive skin at high concentrations.

Notes: Also known as Vitamin B3; improves pore appearance.

🧪 Tocopheryl Acetate / 生育酚乙酸酯

Purpose: Antioxidant

Concerns: None

Notes: A form of Vitamin E.

🧪 Pantolactone / 泛解内酯

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Derivative often used alongside Panthenol.

📁 Emollients & Oils / 柔润剂与植物油

🧪 Isopropyl Palmitate / 棕榈酸异丙酯

Purpose: Emollient, Texture enhancer

Concerns: Comedogenic (may clog pores for acne-prone skin).

Notes: Makes skin feel smooth but can be heavy.

🧪 Cetearyl Alcohol / 鲸蜡硬脂醇

Purpose: Emollient, Texture enhancer

Concerns: None

Notes: A fatty alcohol, non-drying and good for softening skin.

🧪 Dimethicone / 聚二甲基硅氧烷

Purpose: Emollient, Occlusive

Concerns: None

Notes: A silicone that forms a protective barrier and gives a silky slip.

🧪 Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil / 鳄梨油

Purpose: Emollient, Plant oil

Concerns: None

Notes: Rich in fatty acids and vitamins.

🧪 Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil / 向日葵籽油

Purpose: Emollient, Plant oil

Concerns: None

Notes: Great for repairing the skin barrier.

📁 Emulsifiers / 乳化剂

🧪 Ceteareth-20 / 鲸蜡硬脂醇聚醚-20

Purpose: Emulsifier

Concerns: Do not use on damaged skin due to potential absorption issues (though generally safe in cosmetics).

Notes: Helps combine oil and water phases.

🧪 Glyceryl Stearate / 甘油硬脂酸酯

Purpose: Emulsifier

Concerns: None

Notes: Derived from palm kernel, vegetable or soy oil and is also naturally found in the human body.

📁 Preservatives & pH Adjusters / 防腐剂与pH调节剂

🧪 Sodium Benzoate / 苯甲酸钠

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: None

Notes: Food-grade preservative.

🧪 Benzyl Alcohol / 苯甲醇

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: Potential allergen for sensitive skin.

Notes: Also serves as a solvent.

🧪 Citric Acid / 柠檬酸

Purpose: pH Adjuster, Exfoliant

Concerns: Can be irritating in high concentrations (low concentration here).

Notes: Used to balance the pH of the formula.