Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser
Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, low-pH bubble cleanser formulated with 17 amino acids that deeply cleanses while protecting the skin barrier. UFD-200nm nano-sized foam penetrates pores to remove impurities without stripping moisture, leaving skin hydrated and comfortable.
UFD Nano-Size Foam Technology
200nm ultra-fine bubbles penetrate deep into pores to effectively remove impurities, makeup residue, and excess sebum.
Texture & feel
SENSORYUFD Nano-Size Foam Technology
200nm ultra-fine bubbles penetrate deep into pores to effectively remove impurities, makeup residue, and excess sebum.
17 Amino Acid Complex
Matches your skin's natural balance, providing nourishment and forming a protective water barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Barrier Strengthening
Ceramide NP and Hyaluronic Acid work together to reinforce the skin barrier and maintain optimal hydration levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Botanicals
Perilla Seed Extract and Bisabolol calm redness and soothe irritation, ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains esters (Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate) and Hydrogenated Lecithin. As a rinse-off product, risk is lower but not 100% FA-safe.
Rated 1/5 for pore-clogging potential. Gentle amino acid surfactants won't cause breakouts for most skin types.
Orange Peel Oil provides a light citrus scent. Contains Limonene as a naturally occurring component. Patch test if fragrance-sensitive.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids 13,260 ppmStar Ingredient
The primary cleansing agent derived from coconut and apple amino acids. Extremely mild surfactant that cleanses without disrupting the skin barrier or stripping natural oils.
- Function: Gentle amino acid-based surfactant with outstanding foamability
- Benefit: Reduces harshness compared to traditional surfactants like SLS
- pH: Helps maintain the skin's natural acidic pH level
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
A powerful humectant that attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Helps maintain hydration during and after cleansing.
- Source: Low molecular weight HA for better penetration
- Benefit: Prevents the tight, dry feeling after cleansing
- Research: Proven to improve skin hydration and elasticity
Ceramide NPProven
A lipid naturally found in the skin's barrier. Helps repair and maintain the protective layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out.
- Function: Strengthens skin barrier and prevents transepidermal water loss
- Research: Deficiency linked to eczema, psoriasis, and acneic skin
- Benefit: Supports skin healing and resilience
Perilla Ocymoides Seed ExtractPromising
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, this botanical extract calms inflammation and reduces redness. Particularly beneficial for acne-prone and reactive skin.
- Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, soothing
- Benefit: Alleviates redness, itchiness, and inflammation
Bambusa Vulgaris WaterSupporting
Bamboo water provides minerals and amino acids that help with skin regeneration and maintaining firmness.
- Function: Hydration and skin regeneration support
- Benefit: Helps keep skin firm and revitalized
BisabololProven
Active component derived from chamomile, known for its exceptional skin-soothing and anti-irritant properties.
- Source: Chamomile plant extract
- Benefit: Calms irritation, fights dryness, soothes sensitive skin
- Research: Proven anti-inflammatory effects
45 ingredients
Water, Coco-Glucoside, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Perilla Ocymoides Seed Extract, Glycine, Bambusa Vulgaris Water, Serine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Leucine, Alanine, Lysine, Arginine, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Valine, Threonine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cysteine, Methionine, Bisabolol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Ceramide NP, Limonene
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (PM) or as a standalone cleanser (AM). Can be used daily, morning and evening.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Start with damp skin. Wet your hands and face with lukewarm water.
Dispense Product
Pump 1-2 pumps of cleanser onto clean hands. The foam dispenses directly from the pump.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face and massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and continue with your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Your skin feels tight and dry after cleansing
- You're looking for a gentle daily cleanser
- You have acne-prone skin that needs gentle care
- You prefer vegan and cruelty-free products
- You want a low-pH cleanser that respects your skin barrier
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a cleanser to remove heavy waterproof makeup (use oil cleanser first)
- You have severe fungal acne and need 100% FA-safe products
- You're extremely sensitive to any fragrance (contains orange peel oil)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free formulas
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess sebum without over-stripping. Low pH helps control oil production naturally.
Amino acids and ceramides prevent moisture loss. No tight feeling after cleansing.
Balances both oily and dry areas effectively. Gentle enough for daily use on all zones.
EWG green grade, hypoallergenic formula. Bisabolol and perilla extract calm irritation. Patch test if fragrance-sensitive.
Non-comedogenic and gentle on inflamed skin. Low pH supports healthy skin microbiome. Contains some esters that may not suit fungal acne.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, hydrated, and comfortable immediately after first use. No tightness or dryness.
95% noticedImproved Hydration
Skin barrier begins to strengthen. Less redness and irritation for sensitive skin types.
80% noticedBalanced Skin
More balanced oil production. Skin texture appears smoother and healthier.
70% noticedLong-term Benefits
Consistently clearer, calmer skin. Reduced sensitivity and better product absorption in subsequent steps.
65% noticedRatings by platform
930+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle - no tightness or dryness
- Rich, luxurious foam texture
- Effective at removing daily impurities
- Great for sensitive and acne-prone skin
- Vegan and cruelty-free certified
- EWG green grade ingredients
- Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid
- Pleasant, mild citrus scent
- Affordable for K-beauty quality
Criticized
- Not effective for heavy makeup removal (needs double cleanse)
- Contains natural fragrance (orange peel oil)
- Not 100% fungal acne safe
- 140ml bottle may run out quickly
- Pump can occasionally malfunction
- May feel too gentle for those who like a deeper clean
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar low-pH, gentle formula with BHA (Betaine Salicylate) for mild exfoliation. Tea tree oil instead of amino acid focus. Great for oily/acne-prone skin.
Minimalist formula, fragrance-free, dermatologist recommended. Fewer actives but excellent for extremely sensitive skin. National Eczema Association approved.
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid like Dr. Althea. Non-foaming cream texture. Better for dry skin but may leave residue for oily types.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Pump bottle dispenser for hygienic use and easy foam dispensing
Yes, 140ml is over 100ml TSA limit - transfer to travel container or check bag
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are gentle amino acid-based surfactants and hydrating agents that pose no known risk during pregnancy or nursing.
Use with caution. While most ingredients are FA-safe, it contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate (an ester), Hydrogenated Lecithin, and Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate which may feed malassezia. However, as a rinse-off product that isn't left on skin, the risk is significantly reduced. If you're highly sensitive to fungal acne triggers, you may want to choose a 100% FA-safe cleanser like Vanicream.
Yes, this cleanser is compatible with all actives. Its low pH and gentle formula won't interfere with retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants. In fact, the amino acids and ceramides help support your skin barrier while using potentially irritating actives. Just ensure you wait for your skin to dry before applying potent actives after cleansing.
This cleanser is excellent for all skin types, but particularly shines for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin. The amino acid surfactants are among the gentlest available, making it ideal for reactive skin. Oily skin types will also benefit from its thorough yet non-stripping cleanse. Those with very oily skin who prefer a stronger cleanse may find it too mild.
You'll notice immediate comfort from day one - skin feels clean without tightness. Within 1-2 weeks, sensitive skin typically shows reduced redness and irritation. By 3-4 weeks, you should notice more balanced oil production and improved skin texture. Long-term use (2+ months) supports overall skin barrier health and better absorption of other products.
Use this as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine at night (after oil cleanser to remove makeup/sunscreen), or as a standalone cleanser in the morning. Apply to damp skin, massage for 30-60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water before continuing with toner, serum, and moisturizer.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The amino acid surfactants and glycerin-based formula are non-pore-clogging. As a rinse-off product, even trace amounts of any potentially comedogenic ingredients are washed away. It's suitable for acne-prone skin and won't contribute to breakouts.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With twice-daily use (2 pumps each time), the 140ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months. The pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene and product integrity throughout use.
Verdict: The Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser is an excellent choice for those seeking a truly gentle, skin-barrier-respecting cleanser. Its unique combination of 17 amino acids, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid makes it stand out in the crowded K-beauty cleanser market. While it contains a light natural fragrance and isn't 100% fungal acne safe, these are minor considerations for most users. The EWG green grade, vegan certification, and dermatologist-friendly formula make it a reliable daily cleanser for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin types. At its price point, it offers exceptional value with premium K-beauty quality.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids
Skin Conditioning
|
|






