Cetaphil lotion is a great skin care product that helps to hydrate dry and flaky skin. Cetaphil is generally considered safe to use, but what should you do if it begins to cause a burning sensation on your skin?
Cetaphil lotion may cause irritation or burn because you may be sensitive to some of the lotions ingredients such as preservatives, Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acid, or Alcohol.
In this article, we are going to discuss why Cetaphil lotion burns. So keep reading! We have all you need to know about why Cetaphil lotion may burn when applied.
What Is Cetaphil Lotion
Cetaphil lotion is a skincare product used as a lotion to treat various skin irritations, as well as itchy, rough, and scaly skin. It contains emollients that will help moisturize and soften the skin, in turn stopping flaking and the itchy sensation.
Cetaphil lotions contain a high water content that helps to hydrate dry and flaky skin and are often thick and creamy moisturizers that leave no residue. The emollients within the lotion help to lock in moisture, resulting in skin that looks both hydrated and refreshed.
The product should not give you a burning sensation when you use it; if it does, you should stop using the product immediately and console your doctor.
Why Does Cetaphil Lotion Burn?
If you apply Cetaphil lotion to your skin and begin to experience a severe burning sensation, you are likely sensitive to some of the moisturizer’s ingredients.
As our skin is slightly acidic by nature, if you begin to experience a burning or stinging sensation after applying a moisturizing product such as Cetaphil, it has knocked your skin’s PH level off balance. If this is the case, washing off the moisturizer immediately is ideal.
Cetaphil is supposed to soothe irritated and burning skin, not intensify these feelings. Therefore if your skin reacts in an uncomfortable way when using Cetaphil lotion, your skin may be sensitive to some of the ingredients contained within the cream.
Why Does Cetaphil Irritate My Skin?
The irritation or burning sensation from using Cetaphil lotion may come from many reasons. The skin on our body comprises natural lipids, proteins, and dead cells and is the first barrier of defense in our bodies. Yet, as we age, it begins to weaken, so any strong moisturizer eventually begins to burn through this defense.
There is a list of ingredients that can irritate and burn your skin if it is sensitive. The following ingredients are known to cause burning sensations in some people:
- Parabens
- Preservatives
- Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acid
- Alcohol
- Surfactant and Emulsifiers
- Fragrances
Suppose your skin is not doing its job as a protective layer properly. In this case, chemicals, viruses, bacteria, and allergens may begin to disrupt the living parts of the skin and cause uncomfortable side effects.

The list of ingredients mentioned above is not generally considered harmful. Still, if your skin becomes sensitive to one or more of the ingredients, it will end up causing a feeling of irritation and possibly even a burning sensation.
What To Do If Cetaphil Lotion Burns?
If you begin to notice a burning sensation after applying Cetaphil lotion, a few things can help you get through the uncomfortable feeling. Here are some tips to help you get over the pain and burning sensations.
Aloe Vera: This plant is known as a perfect combatant to second-degree burns, as it can inhibit the growth of bacteria. If you begin to notice a severe skin irritation or a burning sensation, aloe vera can help relieve the stress on your skin.
Cool Water: If you begin to feel a mild reaction or burning sensation with the application of Cetaphil lotion, you can simply use cool water to wash off the moisturizer. After a quick rinse, you can use a mild soap to remove any excess cream on the affected area.
Cool Compressions: If you begin to experience a burning sensation and you don’t have aloe vera in your house, then using a wet and clean cloth may help relieve some of the burning. Run the cloth under the cold tap until it is damp and place it over the affected area for between 5 and 15 minutes, and repeat until the pain and swelling cease.
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