The main differences between a foaming cleanser and a hydrating creamy cleanser are their formulation and how they work to clean the skin.
Foaming cleansers, such as Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser typically contain surfactants, which create a lather when mixed with water. This lather helps to lift dirt, excess oil, makeup, and impurities from the skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed. Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser is a soap-free foaming cleanser, which contains glycerin as well as vitamins B5 and tocopherol (vitamin E), so that your skin won’t feel tight or dry.
Hydrating creamy cleansers such as Cetaphil Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser are formulated with moisturizing ingredients that help to hydrate and nourish the skin. They typically do not produce a lot of lather, while gently dissolving dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin without stripping away its natural oils. In addition, Cetaphil Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser is formulated with soothing prebiotic aloe, glycerin, and vitamins B3 (niacinamide) and B5 (panthenol) to help maintain the skin barrier and skin pH levels.
Choosing between a foaming cleanser and a hydrating or creamy cleanser will depend on your skin type and concerns. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a foaming cleanser may work best for you, while those with dry or sensitive skin may prefer a hydrating creamy cleanser.