Okay, so, cleansers, right? I've been putting three popular options through their paces: the classic Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, the hydrating CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, and the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum. Now, I know one is a serum, but Vitamin C can be a great addition to your cleansing routine, so I wanted to see how it stacked up! It's all about getting that glow, isn't it?
First up, the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser [affiliate]. This is a drugstore staple for a reason. It's incredibly gentle, fragrance-free, and does a good job of removing light makeup and everyday grime. It's a no-frills, reliable cleanser that won't irritate sensitive skin. You really can't go wrong.
Next, we have the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser [affiliate]. This one's all about hydration. It's packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple after cleansing. Perfect for combating that tight, dry feeling, especially during the harsh UK winters. I swear, this stuff is a lifesaver!
Finally, the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum [affiliate]. This isn't just a cleanser, but I wanted to see how its brightening properties compared when used in my morning routine. It aims to boost radiance and even out skin tone, and contains Vitamin C. Worth a go, right?
Direct Comparison:
* Texture & Application: The Cetaphil has a very thin, lotion-like texture. It doesn't foam at all, which some people love, and others miss. I'm kinda on the fence about the no-foam thing. The CeraVe is also a lotion-like consistency, but slightly thicker and creamier. It also doesn't foam. The Garnier serum is a thin, almost watery serum that absorbs quickly. I used the Cetaphil in the morning, the CeraVe at night for two weeks, and the Garnier in the mornings before applying moisturiser. Here's what worked for me!
Results & Effectiveness: The Cetaphil is great for a basic cleanse, but it struggled to remove heavier makeup, particularly waterproof mascara. I found I needed to double cleanse sometimes. The CeraVe did a slightly better job at removing makeup, and my skin felt noticeably more hydrated after each use. After two weeks of using the Garnier serum, I did* notice a slight brightening effect and my skin felt smoother. However, I had to be careful not to use too much, as it could sometimes feel a little sticky. Trust me on this!
* Value for Money: All three are pretty affordable. Cetaphil is the cheapest at around £8, CeraVe is about £9.10, and the Garnier Serum is £9.32. All available in Boots, Superdrug, and on Amazon UK. Bargain!
* Who Each Is Best For: Cetaphil is ideal for those with very sensitive skin who want a super gentle cleanser. CeraVe is perfect for normal to dry skin that needs a boost of hydration. The Garnier Serum is best for those looking to brighten their skin and even out skin tone, but be cautious if you have very sensitive skin. You might wanna do a patch test first.
Verdict:
It really depends on your skin type and concerns. For super sensitive skin, Cetaphil is the clear winner. If hydration is your priority, CeraVe is the way to go. However, if you are looking for a product that can brighten your skin, the Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum is a great option, as long as you don't have overly sensitive skin. For me personally, I will stick with CeraVe for my evening cleanse during the colder months as my skin tends to get drier. It's just what works!
Quick Comparison Table:
| Feature | Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser | CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser | Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum |
| ---------------------- | ----------------------------- | ------------------------- | ----------------------------------- |
| Price | £8 | £9.10 | £9.32 |
| Best for | Sensitive skin | Normal to dry skin | Dull, uneven skin tone |
| Key Ingredients/Features | Water, Glycerin, Parabens | Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid | Vitamin C, Niacinamide |
| Pros | Gentle, Affordable, Fragrance-free | Hydrating, Affordable, Non-comedogenic | Brightening, Affordable, Lightweight |
| Cons | Contains Parabens, May not remove heavy makeup | May not remove heavy makeup, Pump issues | May cause irritation, Variable results |
| Rating (out of 5) | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.0 |