Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

Sensitive skin types require the gentlest ingredients as well as those that help to hydrate and soothe red, irritated skin. Experts point to Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream as an excellent option for those with dry or sensitive skin. It is fragrance-free and contains gentle but moisturizing ingredients like petrolatum, glycerin, dimethicone, glyceryl stearate and cetyl alcohol. It also contains antioxidants in the form of vitamin E, but skin care expert Paula Begoun says there isn't enough of it to make a real difference. Still, she says that Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream is an excellent option for dry to very dry skin that is sensitive. Users at MakeupAlley.com and Drugstore.com agree. Many say that the moisturizer is soothing to eczematous skin as well as skin that is dry and irritated from various medications. The cream is suitable for use on the face and body, but it doesn't contain sunscreen. It's also very thick and heavy, and may not perform well on oily or acne-prone skin. If you have oily skin, you may prefer a lightweight moisturizer like Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (*Est. $25 for 4.2 oz.), which is loaded with antioxidants and is also fragrance-free.

Begoun's online database of beauty reviews provides the most thorough review of Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream. Begoun relies on years of experience as well as medical journals and scientific studies to analyze this and thousands of other beauty products. The Journal of Dermatologic Treatment is also useful with its synopsis of a study that tested Cetaphil's efficacy on rosacea patients. User reviews at MakeupAlley.com and Drugstore.com echo the findings of professionals.