Amino Gel for the Second Step of Facial Cleansing
Amino Gel for the Second Step of Facial Cleansing
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, hydrating gel cleanser designed as the second step in your double cleansing routine. Enriched with polyglutamic acid, betaine, and soothing botanicals, this fragrance-free formula cleanses without stripping moisture, leaving skin soft, balanced, and prepped for your skincare routine.
Hydrating Cleanse
Polyglutamic acid holds up to 5,000x its weight in water, providing intense hydration while cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYHydrating Cleanse
Polyglutamic acid holds up to 5,000x its weight in water, providing intense hydration while cleansing.
Barrier Support
Betaine acts as an osmolyte to protect and strengthen your skin's natural moisture barrier.
Soothing Formula
Allantoin and licorice extract calm irritation and reduce redness for comfortable cleansing.
Gentle Surfactant
Plant-derived decyl glucoside cleanses effectively without stripping or causing tightness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, high-concentration acids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are approved for use during pregnancy.
Free from oils, fatty acids, and esters that feed malassezia. Decyl glucoside and glycerin are verified FA-safe ingredients.
Contains no pore-clogging ingredients. Rating 0/5 on comedogenic scale. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free and colorant-free formula. Gentle plant-derived surfactant suitable for reactive skin types.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA products. Contains trace lactic acid for pH adjustment only, not for exfoliation.
ISO 22716 certified manufacturing. Compliant with strict EU cosmetics regulations. 30+ years of pharmaceutical expertise.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPolyglutamic Acid (Sodium Polyglutamate)Proven
A powerful humectant derived from fermented soybeans that holds up to 5,000x its weight in water—4x more effective than hyaluronic acid. Forms a moisture-locking film on skin while boosting natural moisturizing factors.
- Clinical Study: 13.5% increase in skin hydration after 2 hours vs 7.5% for glycerol (2019 study)
- Mechanism: Inhibits hyaluronidase enzyme, preserving skin's natural hyaluronic acid
- Benefit: Stimulates production of NMFs including PCA, lactic acid, and urocanic acid
BetaineProven
A naturally occurring amino acid derivative from sugar beets. Functions as an osmolyte, helping cells maintain proper water balance and protecting proteins from stress. Makes cleansers milder and more gentle.
- Function: Natural osmoprotectant that attracts water away from protein surfaces
- Benefit: Increases formula mildness and improves skin feel
- Safety: Excellent tolerance, non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin
AllantoinProven
A well-established soothing ingredient that calms irritation, promotes skin healing, and supports regeneration. Found naturally in comfrey root but typically produced synthetically for cosmetics.
- Action: Anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties
- Benefit: Promotes cell regeneration and wound healing
- Tolerance: Non-sensitizing, suitable for all skin types including babies
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root ExtractProven
A Mediterranean botanical with powerful anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. Helps calm redness and even skin tone while providing antioxidant protection.
- Key Compound: Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase, helping to brighten skin
- Benefit: Reduces redness and inflammation, beneficial for sensitive and acne-prone skin
- History: Used for centuries in traditional medicine for healing
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuicePromising
Classic soothing and hydrating botanical known for its cooling, calming properties. Provides additional moisture and helps reduce irritation during cleansing.
- Properties: Moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, wound healing support
- Compounds: Contains polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals
- Use: Widely used in after-sun and sensitive skin products
Decyl GlucosideProven
A mild, plant-derived surfactant made from coconut oil and glucose. One of the gentlest cleansing agents available, suitable for sensitive skin and baby products.
- Origin: 100% natural, biodegradable, from coconut and corn
- Safety: EWG rating of 2 (low concern), non-toxic, non-carcinogenic
- Performance: Excellent foaming with minimal irritation potential
18 ingredients
Aqua, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Betaine, Lactic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Sodium Polyglutamate, Sodium Levulinate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in double cleansing (after oil cleanser) in the PM, or as a standalone gentle cleanser in the AM. Pairs perfectly with Olival Microemulsion.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
After removing makeup/SPF with an oil cleanser (if doing double cleanse), wet your face with lukewarm water.
Dispense & Foam
Pump 2-3 pumps of gel onto wet palms. The gel creates a minimal, gentle lather when worked between hands.
Massage Gently
Apply to damp face using gentle 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 toner, serum, and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You practice the double cleansing method
- Your skin feels tight or dry after cleansing
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (malassezia)
- You want a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser
- You prefer European pharmacy-style skincare
- You need a barrier-friendly morning cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer a rich, foamy lather (this is low-foam)
- You want a cleanser with exfoliating acids
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (use oil first)
- You prefer scented products
- You want a 2-in-1 cleanser and exfoliant
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel texture cleanses effectively without adding heaviness. Non-comedogenic formula won't trigger breakouts.
Hydrating polyglutamic acid and betaine prevent that tight, stripped feeling. Leaves skin comfortable and soft.
Balances cleansing and hydration perfectly across different face zones. Ideal for this tricky skin type.
Fragrance-free with soothing allantoin and licorice. Mild decyl glucoside surfactant minimizes irritation.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), fungal acne safe. No pore-clogging ingredients. Great for acne routines.
Gentle cleansing preserves moisture barrier. PGA supports hydration. Pair with anti-aging treatments.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Clean, Hydrated Feel
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed yet soft and comfortable. No tightness, dryness, or residue. Ready for the next skincare steps.
95% noticedImproved Skin Comfort
Reduced post-cleansing tightness and irritation. Skin barrier feels more balanced. Better tolerance to other products.
85% noticedEnhanced Hydration
Cumulative hydrating effects become noticeable. Skin appears plumper and smoother. Reduced dehydration lines.
78% noticedHealthy Skin Maintenance
Consistent gentle cleansing supports long-term skin barrier health. Better absorption of subsequent skincare products.
82% noticedRatings by platform
430+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle, no tightness after use
- Perfect for sensitive and barrier-damaged skin
- Fragrance-free and colorant-free
- Pregnancy and fungal acne safe
- Works beautifully in double cleansing routine
- Clean, simple ingredient list
- Pump dispenser is hygienic
- Good value for European quality
Criticized
- Low foam may feel "not cleansing enough" to some
- Limited availability outside Europe
- Only one size option (150ml)
- Not a one-step makeup remover
- Plain, clinical packaging
- Brand less well-known internationally
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar hydrating, non-foaming approach. Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid instead of PGA. More widely available but has more complex formula.
French pharmacy alternative with thermal water and ceramide-3. Equally gentle but contains niacinamide. Slightly richer texture.
K-beauty option with tea tree and BHA. pH-balanced like Olival but more focused on pore control. Slightly more foaming texture.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEOlival Amino Gel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is ideal.
Hygienic pump dispenser in opaque bottle. Protects formula integrity.
Yes, 150ml is above carry-on limit but pump prevents spills. Decant for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, absolutely. The Olival Amino Gel contains no retinoids, no high-concentration acids (the lactic acid is only for pH adjustment), no hydroquinone, and no chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are approved for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula is also fragrance-free, making it ideal for those with heightened sensitivity during pregnancy.
Yes, this cleanser is fungal acne safe. It contains no oils, fatty acids (C11-C24), polysorbates, or esters that feed malassezia yeast. The main surfactant (decyl glucoside) and humectants (glycerin, betaine, polyglutamic acid) are all verified FA-safe. The trace lactic acid is also safe as it's a short-chain acid that doesn't feed the fungus.
Yes, you can safely use this cleanser with all these actives. It's a gentle, rinse-off cleanser that won't interfere with your treatment products. The trace lactic acid in the formula is only for pH adjustment (not exfoliation) and rinses off completely. This cleanser actually helps prepare your skin barrier to better tolerate potent actives.
This cleanser is excellent for all skin types, but especially shines for: dry skin (hydrating formula prevents tightness), sensitive skin (fragrance-free, gentle surfactant), acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, FA-safe), and combination skin (balances cleansing and hydration). It's also ideal for anyone with a compromised moisture barrier or those on retinoids.
You'll notice the immediate benefits right away—clean, soft, hydrated skin without tightness. Within 1-2 weeks, you should notice improved skin comfort and better tolerance to other products. After 3-4 weeks of consistent use, cumulative hydrating effects become more apparent with plumper, smoother-looking skin.
This is designed as the second step in double cleansing—use after an oil cleanser or cleansing balm in your PM routine. It can also be used as a standalone gentle cleanser in the morning when you don't need heavy-duty cleansing. Follow with toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
No, this cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It contains no pore-clogging ingredients. The formula is specifically designed to be non-comedogenic and is safe for acne-prone skin. The gentle surfactant effectively cleanses without leaving residue that could contribute to breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene and product integrity. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With twice-daily use, the 150ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months, well within the recommended timeframe.
Verdict: Olival Amino Gel is an excellent, underrated European gem for those seeking a truly gentle second-step cleanser. The standout polyglutamic acid formula provides superior hydration compared to typical gel cleansers, while the clean, fragrance-free formulation makes it safe for pregnancy, fungal acne, and sensitive skin. The only drawbacks are limited international availability and the minimalist approach that may not appeal to those who prefer foamy, sensorial cleansers. For anyone prioritizing skin barrier health and gentle, effective cleansing, this Croatian pharmacy-quality cleanser delivers exceptional value.
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Xanthan Gum
Binding Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning, Surfactant -Emulsifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding, Gel Forming, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|





