Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Face Lotion, 8 oz Pump — Lightweight Daily Moisturizer with Salicylic & Mandelic Acids, 48‑Hour Hyd

Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Face Lotion is a lightweight daily moisturizer that gently renews skin using a blend of salicylic, mandelic acids and gluconolactone while delivering 48-hour hydration.

This lotion is formulated to support sensitive skin that needs regular exfoliation without the harsh feel of scrubs. It combines chemical exfoliants with barrier-supporting hydrators — niacinamide, panthenol and glycerin — to smooth texture and maintain moisture. The fast-absorbing formula is fragrance- and paraben-free, non-comedogenic, and developed for frequent use on delicate complexions.

How does this lotion exfoliate gently every day?

The formula uses a complementary trio of exfoliating acids: salicylic acid (a lipophilic BHA), mandelic acid (a mild AHA), and gluconolactone (a polyhydroxy acid). Together they help loosen surface dead skin cells and clear excess oil without the abrasion of physical scrubs. This approach supports daily cell turnover while reducing the risk of irritation in sensitive skin.

• Salicylic Acid: penetrates pores to address excess oil and surface buildup.
• Mandelic Acid: milder AHA for even exfoliation and tone improvement.
• Gluconolactone: gentler polyhydroxy acid that hydrates as it exfoliates.
• Designed for daily, non-abrasive use to preserve the skin barrier.

Will it keep my skin hydrated and balanced?

Yes — the lotion pairs exfoliants with humectants and barrier-supporting actives to lock in moisture while renewing the skin surface. Niacinamide and panthenol help soothe and strengthen, while glycerin draws and holds hydration for extended comfort. The formula delivers up to 48 hours of moisturization when used as directed.

• Niacinamide: supports barrier resilience and evens skin tone.
• Panthenol (Vitamin B5): calms and helps skin retain moisture.
• Glycerin: primary humectant for lasting hydration.
• Lightweight lotion texture absorbs quickly under makeup or sunscreen.

Is this suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

The lotion was developed and clinically tested for sensitive skin, formulated without fragrance and parabens and labeled non-comedogenic. Its acid concentrations and the inclusion of soothing hydrators aim to exfoliate without provoking typical sensitivity signs like tightness or irritation. For acne-prone skin, salicylic acid can help reduce pore congestion when used consistently.

• Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free to minimize irritation risk.
• Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores when applied appropriately.
• Balances exfoliation and calming ingredients to reduce sensitivity markers.
• Recommended for daily use after patch-testing on highly reactive skin.

How do I fit this into my daily skincare routine?

Use the lotion once or twice daily based on your skin’s tolerance — apply after cleansing and before sunscreen in the morning, and after cleansing at night. A pea-to-nickel sized amount is typically enough for the face; follow with any treatment serums as needed. Always layer sunscreen during daytime use when using chemical exfoliants.

• Morning: cleanse, apply lotion, then broad-spectrum sunscreen.
• Evening: cleanse, apply lotion, follow with heavier creams if needed.
• Start with every-other-day use if new to daily acids.
• Patch test if you have extreme sensitivity or are using other actives.

Who is this for: Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Lotion is aimed at people with sensitive, combination, oily, or normal skin who want a gentle daily exfoliant that also hydrates and supports the skin barrier. It’s a practical option for anyone seeking smoother texture and more even tone without physical scrubbing — especially those who prefer fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed formulas.

Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Isopropyl Palmitate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cluconolactone, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Dimethicone, Mandelic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexyglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Pantolactone, Citric Acid