Is Cetaphil Cruelty Free? The Truth About Ingredients, Process and More

13 min readSep 19, 2023

What is Cetaphil?

1. Overview of Cetaphil

Cetaphil is a skincare brand, commonly renowned for its gentle formula ideal for your sensitive or acne-prone skin. Established by a pharmacist in 1947, it’s now owned by Galderma Laboratories.

Filled with mild, non-irritating ingredients like Cocoa or Shea butter, Cetaphil products are seen as alternatives to harsh soaps. Cetaphil’s focus on your skin health, together with their close collaboration with dermatologists, sets them apart. Their range is diverse.

But the big question is: is cetaphil cruelty free?

So we’re going to explore that exact question in this article.

But before we go too far, please note that some links below may be affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) from qualifying purchases.

2. Pros of Cetaphil

Curious about switching up your skincare routine? Cetaphil might just be the perfect solution for you. Here’s why:

Cetaphil products, backed by over 70 years of dermatological research, are scientifically created to support and improve your skin health.
Anyone can use it, from those who have sensitive skin to those coping with acne, rosacea, or eczema.
The range is diverse, catering to babies, adults, and those seeking specialist dermatologically tested items.
Cetaphil’s gentle formulas respect your skin’s pH balance and boost the natural barrier protecting your skin.
The best part? It’s all about quality, with most products being fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and made from premium ingredients.

😍You can see the full line up of Cetaphil products at pricing lower than what’s shown in store by clicking here.😍

3. Cons of Cetaphil

You care about your skin and what goes onto it, right? Knowing the drawbacks of skincare brands like Cetaphil could be critical to your health and conscious lifestyle.

Firstly, Cetaphil isn’t noted for being environmentally friendly, or “green.”
Secondly, it has paraben-laden formulas which can disrupt hormones and may tie to health concerns like breast cancer.
It’s not viewed as “clean” — it’s formulas contain synthetic, non-natural ingredients.
Though some Cetaphil products might be vegan, the brand isn’t cruelty-free, discouraging for animal lovers.
Finally, though it has a reputation for sensitive skin care, some controversy swirls around undisclosed ingredients.

Be mindful, your skin deserves well-researched, healthy products.

Understanding the concept of Cruelty-Free products

1. What Is a Cruelty-Free Product?

A cruelty-free product is one that hasn’t been tested on animals during any stage of its development. You, as a consumer, should know that when you buy a cruelty-free product, it means no animal was harmed during:

Ingredient testing
Formulation testing
Final product testing

Also, the product isn’t sold in countries with laws making animal testing mandatory. Keep in mind, a product can be cruelty-free and not necessarily vegan. For example, a cruelty-free lip balm might still contain beeswax, an animal byproduct.

2. What Are the Different Types of Cruelty-Free Products?

Understanding the different types of cruelty-free products is crucial for ethical shopping. You’re contributing to a more humane industry when you make informed purchases.

**Vegan**: These products contain no animal ingredients. You’re avoiding animal exploitation for your cosmetics with vegan choices.
**Cruelty-free**: Cruelty-free items aren’t tested on animals. Let your cosmetics purchases voice out against unethical animal testing.
**Cruelty-free and vegan**: Buying these products ensures you’re not supporting any form of animal use or harm.
**Certified Cruelty-free**: Always opt for brands certified by respected organizations like PETA or Leaping Bunny. This is your guarantee of genuine cruelty-free items, signaling no compromise from raw materials to your shelves.

3. Are Cetaphil Products Cruelty-Free?

Cetaphil products aren’t considered completely cruelty-free. While Cetaphil asserts a no-animal testing policy, they do permit third-party testing where law requires.
Not all Cetaphil products are purely vegan. You need to inspect the ingredient lists of products personally to ensure they align with a vegan lifestyle.
Although the company declares it maintains ethical standards, Cetaphil isn’t listed as cruelty-free by recognized organizations like PETA, Leaping Bunny, and Choose Cruelty-Free.
The brand is sold in markets such as China, where animal testing is mandated.
The brand’s parent company, Galderma, has a flexible animal testing policy, permitting testing when legally enforced.
While Cetaphil themselves don’t conduct animal testing, the statement seems to exclude testing done by others.

4. How Are Cetaphil Products Manufactured?

Firstly, your beloved Cetaphil products are primarily made in Canada, saving on shipping costs for the locals. Then, they get sent off to different parts of the world, including the US — just keep in mind that shipping charges might impact the total cost.

Here’s what rounds up the manufacturing process:

First, they keenly source the ingredients. Most of them can be derived from non-animal sources, going hand-in-hand with their preference towards avoiding animal testing.
Next, the selected ingredients are blended to create the specific product formula. Each formula is designed to respect your skin’s natural protective barrier and pH balance for optimal results.
Lastly, the final product is rigorously tested on everything but animals, before being packaged and shipped off to you!

Remember, all of this is based on extensive scientific research and consultation with dermatologists. That’s what makes Cetaphil products so skin-friendly!

5. Do Cetaphil Products Contain Animal-Derived Ingredients?

Animal-derived ingredients are substances sourced from animals, directly or indirectly. As per our research, not all Cetaphil products can boast of a ‘no animal-derived ingredients’ claim. Indeed, a look at the ingredients of Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar and Deep Hydration Refreshing Eye Serum turns up things like:

Sodium Tallowate: a fatty acid found in tallow or animal fat
Beeswax: a wax produced by honey bees

It’s just about always prudent to read the labels thoroughly if you adhere to a vegan lifestyle.

6. Are Cetaphil Products Tested on Animals?

Animal testing in the cosmetics industry involves testing new products or ingredients on animals to establish their safety for human use. Now, let’s look at Cetaphil:

Cetaphil itself does not directly conduct any animal testing.
Yet, the brand acknowledges that some local health authorities might carry out animal testing on their products before approving them for sale, such as in China.
Cetaphil products are sold globally, including nations where animal testing may be required by law.
The brand doesn’t provide clear evidence whether their suppliers test the ingredients on animals.
Therefore, despite stating they don’t test their products on animals, their presence in markets that mandate animal testing puts a question mark on their “cruelty-free” status.

7. Is Cetaphil Vegan-Friendly?

Cetaphil isn’t a 100% vegan skincare brand, despite offering a selection of vegan products. This means that some ingredients in their products are derived from animals, generally tallow, and they aren’t completely vegan-friendly. Yet, you’ll find:

A list of ingredients on Cetaphil’s packaging and website to help inform your choices
Some products labeled as ‘vegan’ or ‘suitable for vegans,’ indicating no animal-derived ingredients
Cetaphil’s non-cruelty stance with a no-animal testing policy

However, remember that some of the Cetaphil products can contain substances like lanolin or beeswax, which aren’t considered vegan.

8. Are Cetaphil Products Safe for Sensitive Skin?

Cetaphil is renowned for its gentle, skin-friendly formulations, designed with your skin’s health in mind. It offers a variety of products, all dermatologically tested to ensure they’re safe for even the most sensitive skin. Here’s why Cetaphil might just be your holy grail for skincare:

Cetaphil products are scientifically designed with the primary focus on skin health, making it not a superficial fix but a long-term care solution.
Whether you have a normal skin type or a specific skin condition like acne, rosacea, or eczema, Cetaphil has got you covered with its range of products.
Many of Cetaphil’s formulations are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
They use high quality ingredients that respect the skin’s natural acid-alkaline balance and protect its barrier.

9. How to Find Cruelty-Free Alternatives to Cetaphil Products?

Switching to cruelty-free alternatives to Cetaphil is both compassionate and skin-friendly. You get ethical beauty care without skimping on product quality.

Consider these features:

Cruelty-free and vegan brands like Acure, Pacifica, and Derma E
Commitment to using high-quality, natural ingredients
Compatibility with various skin types and skincare needs
Sustainably sourced and eco-friendly packaging

Top pick alternatives to Cetaphil include:

Acure: Pros — 100% vegan, practical packaging, appropriate for all skin types. Cons — Might be a bit pricey, less accessible
Pacifica: Pros — Large product range, environmentally conscious packaging. Cons — Some may find fragrances overpowering
Derma E: Pros — Uses bioavailable ingredients for maximum efficacy. Cons — Some products may come across as pricey

Remember to make your selection based on both budget and skincare needs.

The Ingredients used in Cetaphil products

1. Mineral Oil

Mineral Oil is a clear, odorless liquid commonly used in skincare products. It is known for its occlusive properties, sealing in moisture and preventing skin dehydration. However, its use has raised some eyebrows. Some Cetaphil products contain Mineral Oil. Here’s what you need to know:

It helps lock moisture, contributing to the products’ hydrating attributes.
When applied, it creates an invisible layer on your skin, keeping dirt and bacteria out.

Yet, there are drawbacks too using in Cetaphil.

While it’s non-comedogenic, if not properly removed, it can lead to clogged pores.
It’s not earth-friendly as it’s derived from petroleum. In 2022, however, Cetaphil removed Mineral Oil from some products aiming to become ‘clean’.

2. Petrolatum

Petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly, is a common ingredient found in Cetaphil products. It’s derived from petroleum and is frequently used in the skincare industry due to its beneficial properties.

Here’s why Cetaphil uses Petrolatum:

It acts as a skin conditioning agent, helping to soothe and hydrate the skin.
The ingredient forms a barrier on the skin’s surface to lock in moisture and protect against environmental irritants.
Petrolatum is renowned for its long-lasting effects, making products with this ingredient beneficial for dry skin conditions.

3. Parabens

Parabens — they’re the often-talked-about preservatives used in many beauty products, including some from Cetaphil. Here’s why:

They extend shelf life. Parabens keep off bacteria, preventing your product from spoiling too soon.
They’re an affordable solution. Parabens are cost-effective ingredients that many companies exploit.
They uphold product consistency. These preservatives help to maintain the intended texture, look, and feel.

But, don’t forget — Cetaphil started reformulating its products in 2022 to create ‘clean’ alternatives without parabens and other toxic ingredients. Always check the label to ensure you’re making a paraben-free choice!

4. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a cleaning agent or “surfactant” used in many products.
In Cetaphil’s range, you’ll find it missing; they’ve kicked out SLS for its potential irritants.
For instance, Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar uses alternatives like gentle herbal extracts.
SLS is often substituted to maintain product safety and effectiveness.

5. Phthalates

Phthalates are chemicals often used in cosmetics for their ability to soften and increase the flexibility of plastic and vinyl. Now, you might wonder — do Cetaphil products contain Phthalates? The data here is limited. However, what we know is that Cetaphil commits to using high-quality ingredients, with many of their formulations being fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Their products are designed to have a pH level respectful of the skin’s acid-alkaline balance, reinforcing the skin’s natural protective barrier. But, always remember to check the ingredients list on product packaging for the most accurate information.

6. Propylene Glycol

Propylene Glycol (P.G) is a synthetic compound used in a bunch of skincare products. You might spot this ingredient in certain Cetaphil items, but why? P.G helps retain skin’s moisture and enhance the absorption of other ingredients. Pretty handy, huh? But before you get too excited, it’s worth knowing that some folks with sensitive skin might react to it. Though most people can tolerate it, some might experience dryness or slight irritation. As ever, the key is to know your skin’s preferences and listen to its needs.

7. Dyes

The dyes used in Cetaphil products are ingredients that add color to their items, enhancing their visual appeal. Despite their purpose, these dyes come with pros and cons worth considering:

Pros:

Enhance visual appeal: Dyes make Cetaphil products visually striking and more appealing to consumers.
Distinguish between products: The use of different colors helps distinguish between various Cetaphil products.

Cons:

Synthetic origin: Some of these dyes can be synthetically derived, which may not align with preferences for natural ingredients.
Potential skin irritation: Certain individuals may experience skin irritation or sensitivity to these dyes.
Lack of contribution to product efficacy: These dyes don’t contribute to the product’s skin care benefits. They’re purely aesthetic.

8. Fragrances

Cetaphil products often use fragrances to enhance user experience. It’s crucial to understand some pros and cons these fragrances bring along.

Pros:

They amplify product appeal, giving your skincare ritual a comfortable ambiance.
Some fragrances used can be natural or synthetically derived, providing a large variety.

Cons:

Fragrances in Cetaphil may induce irritation or sensitivity in some users.
There’s a potential for allergenic reactions.
Lack of transparency regarding the sustainability and fair-trade source of some ingredients like Palm Oil Derivatives.

Always be sure to check ingredient lists and choose what works best for your skin.

9. Emulsifiers

Emulsifiers are ingredients that assist in creating a mix between water and oil, thus preventing the separation of product ingredients. An example is Stearic Acid, which may be plant, animal, or synthetically derived.

In Cetaphil products, emulsifiers are used to:

Enhance product stability: Emulsifiers ensure the ingredients remain blended over time, offering a consistent product performance.
Improve texture: They contribute to the creamy, smooth feel of the products that makes them easy to apply.

However, while beneficial, it’s worth noting:

Source: Some emulsifiers in Cetaphil products like Stearic Acid and Cetyl Alcohol, can be derived from animals or synthetics. This might make the brand unsuitable for those following a vegan lifestyle.
Potential toxicity: Some emulsifiers, like P.E.G derivatives, may have potential health concerns if they’re synthetically derived.

Always research the ingredients in your skincare regime to ensure they align with your values and health preferences.

10. Preservatives

Preservatives in skincare are crucial for prolonging the life of your products. Cetaphil, a renowned brand, has formulated its products with a distinctive approach. Instead of parabens, common preservatives found in numerous cosmetics:

Cetaphil opts for a combination of herbal extracts and scientifically formulated ingredients.
These elements not only ward off bacteria growth but do so without posing possible irritation.
Moreover, the brand assures its products are free from artificial colors, fragrances, and harsh chemicals like SLS and SLES.

Hence, while you indulge in using Cetaphil’s products, they’re managing to maintain their freshness sans common skin-irritating additives.

The Process of Cetaphil product manufacturing

Step 1: Plant-based raw materials are obtained

Start by sourcing plant-based materials like shea butter and palm oil. Make sure to choose suppliers who practice sustainable farming or harvesting techniques.
Extract the ‘raw’ ingredients. For palm oil, that means pressing the fruit. For shea butter, it involves crushing and boiling the nuts.
Purify the extracts to remove any impurities. This usually includes filtration and distillation.
Introduce these refined materials into your manufacturing process. Typically, this is done in the formulation stage for products like Cetaphil.

Expert tip: Ask for supply chain transparency from your suppliers. It verifies the sustainability and ethical sourcing of your raw materials. Quality can differ greatly depending on the source, so this step is key.

Step 2: Processor extracts and processes the raw materials

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Step 3: Create a finished product

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Step 4: Package the product

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Step 5: Transport the product

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Step 6: Store the produc

After Cetaphil products are manufactured, it’s crucial to store them correctly to maintain their efficacy:

Always store the products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to preserve the active ingredients.
Keep the lids tightly closed when not in use to prevent exposure to air which can affect the product’s consistency and potency.
Although Cetaphil products have an excellent shelf life, avoid bulk buying too much at once to ensure you’re always using the products at their best.
In case of liquid products like cleansers or lotions, if possible, store them upright to avoid leakage.

Remember, proper storage extends the life and effectiveness of your skincare products.

Step 7: Use the product

Begin by wetting your face with lukewarm water.
Apply a small amount of Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser onto your hands.
Gently massage the cleanser all over your face, avoiding the eye area.
Rinse thoroughly with water and pat your face dry.
Expert tip: Although Cetaphil effectively removes excess oil and dirt, it’s gentle enough for daily use, both morning and night.
Always follow up your cleanse with a moisturizer to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
For those with sensitive skin, consistency is the key. Keep a regular cleansing routine to maintain skin health.

Cetaphil’s stance on animal testing

Animal testing refers to the use of animals in conducting experiments, primarily in the production of cosmetics. But what’s up with Cetaphil, a popular skincare brand, when it comes to this practice?

Cetaphil maintains it doesn’t conduct animal testing on its product or ingredients.
They’ve partnered with the Institute for Invitro Sciences (IIVS) for animal testing alternatives.
It’s important to note Cetaphil operates under parent company, Galderma, which endorses a no animal testing policy, save for locations necessitating it by law.
Despite these, Cetaphil products are sold in mainland China, where legal policies enforce animal testing for imported cosmetics.
Consequently, PETA lists Cetaphil as a brand involved in animal testing, hence not totally cruelty-free.