Cetaphil
Cetaphil was created in 1947 by pharmacist for Galderma, a global dermatology company. The brand's Gentle Skin Cleanser was originally developed as a prescription cleanser for sensitive skin conditions and has since become one of the most recommended skincare products by dermatologists worldwide. Cetaphil is now owned by Galderma, which was previously a joint venture between L'Oréal and Nestlé before being sold to an investor consortium in 2019. While positioned as gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, Cetaphil products contain ingredients like propylparaben, methylparaben, sodium lauryl sulfate, and petroleum-derived compounds that some consumers and advocacy groups consider problematic. The brand's clinical positioning and dermatologist endorsements often shield it from ingredient scrutiny.
Products Analyzed
Flagged Ingredients Found
Who Owns Cetaphil?
PE / VC BackedParent Company
Galderma
Parent Industry
Dermatology
Galderma was acquired in 2019 by a consortium led by EQT Partners and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. Galderma went public on the SIX Swiss Exchange in 2024. Previously, Galderma was a joint venture between L'Oreal and Nestle.
Corporate ownership does not automatically mean a product is unsafe. It means ingredient and sourcing decisions are influenced by a parent company whose primary business is dermatology. Consumers deserve to know who profits from their purchases.
Products by Cetaphil
Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion
Cetaphil
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Organic Lip Balm
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil
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Organic Lip Balm
Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
Cetaphil
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Organic Lip Balm
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Cetaphil
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Organic Lip Balm
Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Night Cream
Cetaphil
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Organic Lip Balm
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Flagged Ingredients in Cetaphil Products
We found 7 different ingredients of concern across Cetaphil's product line. Each one links to a full safety analysis with details on health risks, regulatory status, and which other brands use the same ingredient.
Parabens
A class of synthetic preservatives used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics and personal care products. Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, raising concerns about endocrine disruption and links to breast cancer.
Petroleum / Petrolatum
A semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum refining. Widely used as a moisture barrier in lip balms, lotions, and ointments. When inadequately refined, it can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are linked to cancer.
Synthetic Fragrance
An umbrella term that can hide hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. Under US law, companies are not required to list individual fragrance components, which may include phthalates, musks, allergens, and sensitizers.
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG Compounds)
A family of petroleum-derived compounds used as emulsifiers, thickeners, solvents, and penetration enhancers. PEGs themselves are relatively low-toxicity, but they are frequently contaminated with ethylene oxide (a known carcinogen) and 1,4-dioxane.
Propylene Glycol
A synthetic liquid used as a humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer in cosmetics. While considered safe at low concentrations, it is a skin irritant at higher levels and enhances absorption of other ingredients — including harmful ones.
Dimethicone
A silicone-based polymer widely used in cosmetics and skincare for its smoothing, water-repellent properties. Not toxic in itself, but creates a synthetic barrier that can trap impurities, clog pores, and is not biodegradable.
Phenoxyethanol
A glycol ether used as a preservative in cosmetics, often marketed as a 'safer' alternative to parabens. At regulated concentrations (up to 1%), it is generally well tolerated, but higher concentrations can cause irritation and are toxic to infants.
