You know what my dermatologist says anytime I have a skin flare-up? She tells me that I need to go back to the basics, and usually, that means products from CeraVe or Cetaphil. If you have super sensitive skin or are dealing with any sort of skin irritation – hi eczema and rosacea – you've also probably been given this same directive. These high-street skincare brands have amassed a cult-like following for their simple and affordable formulas that are gentle enough for even the most reactive skin types. But how do you possibly choose one? Can you use both? Is one better than the other?

To settle this debate, I consulted dermatologists and conducted my own little experiment to come up with a definitive answer. I completely swapped out my skincare routine, exclusively using CeraVe for one week and Cetaphil for the next (then switching things up and using both on half of my face for *funsies*). I tried a cleanser, vitamin C serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen from each line to compare the formulas, textures, and packaging, as well as how each product made my skin look and feel. Let me tell ya, my skin needed a refresh and going back to the basics has me looking extra radiant.

Soooooo... does that mean we have a clear winner? Keep reading to find out which brand is the best option for your skin...