So I'll start by saying it's a great product for sensitive skin. I've used loads of benzoyl peroxide products, at various percentages such as Clean and Clear Continuous Control 10% AND 5%, Benzac, benzagel, etc (always unscented, so that's not factored into the comparison).
While I don't personally feel that I have sensitive skin, as I was able to tolerate 10% benzoyl, I do notice some levels of irritation with other products that can't be seen on this. Things like overly dry skin, red skin, flakiness or chapped lips, eye irritation, sensitivity after use, etc. None of that with CereVe. The bonus is while it is a weaker formulation, I am able to use it more frequently than other products. It seems to last longer too.
The cons:
Despite it "foaming" slightly, which I thought would helps with spreading evenly, it tends to pool with some areas seemingly having a very thin, practically nvisible amount; and other areas where it's clearly there. The thing is... I'm not sure how much this affects efficacy in context, however I felt a bit... Uneasy with the areas that are acne-prone on my face potentially not receiving benefit.
It's also a very watery-product. Which isn't necessarily "bad" but just be careful about it dripping down near your eye; or on the floor if you're applying this to your body. Kinda comparable to benzagel I suppose?
I like to leave benzoyl peroxide on my skin for 10-20 min before showering, so something THICK like clean and clear is excellent for that. But you so end up using a lot more product, as this for sure is easier to spread as a thin film.
For context, I also use tretinoin 0.5%, azelaic acid 15%, salicylic acid 2%, and the occasional chemical peel with 40% mandelic + 15% salicylic. I didn't have any extra irritation added from the product, but know that you shouldn't apply tretinoin after benzoyl. Use then on separate days.
| Manufacturer | CeraVe |
|---|---|
| Item model number | 3606000611481 |
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 8.9 x 19.1 cm; 0.47 g |
| ASIN | B0CT6BCNMS |
