Amphibian
Amphibian
Product Description
Product overview
An ultra-gentle aqua-jelly cleansing gel with amino acid surfactants, bisabolol, and a Cu-Zn-Mg mineral complex. pH 5.5 balanced and fragrance-free, Amphibian removes impurities without disrupting the skin barrier — more hydrating agents than cleansers in the formula.
Amino Acid Surfactants
Uses amphoteric and amino acid-based cleansers instead of harsh SLS/SLES, preserving the hydrolipidic barrier while effectively removing dirt and makeup.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAmino Acid Surfactants
Uses amphoteric and amino acid-based cleansers instead of harsh SLS/SLES, preserving the hydrolipidic barrier while effectively removing dirt and makeup.
Mineral Complex (Cu + Zn + Mg)
A unique tri-mineral blend of copper, zinc, and magnesium helps maintain skin integrity and supports damaged, inflamed, or acne-prone skin.
More Hydrators Than Surfactants
Exceptionally rare for a gel cleanser — the percentage of moisturizing ingredients exceeds the percentage of cleansing agents in the formula.
Bisabolol + Betaine Soothing
Chamomile-derived bisabolol and sugar beet-derived betaine calm inflammation, protect barrier function, and soothe reactive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Contains no oils, silicones, or pore-clogging ingredients. Rated 0 on the comedogenic scale — will not clog pores.
Dermatologically tested on sensitive skin. Formulated without parabens, perfume, denatured alcohol, synthetic dyes, soap, and SLS/SLES.
pH 5.5 formula pairs well with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, and niacinamide. Won't compromise acid effectiveness.
Manufactured in Croatia under strict EU cosmetic regulations. All fragrance allergens are avoided per EU policy.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerinProven
A skin-identical humectant and one of the most effective moisturizers in skincare. Listed as the second ingredient, indicating a high concentration. Glycerin draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain the liquid crystal structure of skin lipids.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical moisturizer, barrier support
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — non-comedogenic
- Science: Proven to improve skin hydration and barrier function in numerous clinical studies
Sodium CocoamphoacetateProven
A mild, amphoteric coconut-derived surfactant. Unlike SLS or SLES, this cleanser works gently without stripping the skin. Creates a soft, non-drying lather that respects the skin barrier.
- Function: Primary gentle cleansing agent
- Classification: Amphoteric surfactant — milder than anionic alternatives
- Science: Recognized as one of the mildest surfactant classes for sensitive skin formulations
BisabololProven
The active soothing compound from chamomile. A clear, oily fluid with potent anti-inflammatory, skin-calming, and antioxidant properties. Also helps other active ingredients penetrate more effectively.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, antioxidant, absorption enhancer
- Source: Derived from chamomile (approximately 30% of chamomile oil)
- Science: Studies confirm anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity that supports barrier repair
Zinc PCA ~1%Proven
A synergistic association of zinc and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), a natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Zinc normalizes sebum production and limits acne-causing bacteria, while PCA improves zinc's bioavailability and hydrates.
- Function: Sebum regulation, antimicrobial, hydration (NMF)
- Science: In-vivo testing shows statistically significant sebum reduction after 28 days at 1% concentration
- Dual action: Zinc fights acne-causing bacteria + PCA provides skin-identical hydration
Copper GluconatePromising
A copper mineral that supports skin regeneration and wound healing. Part of Amphibian's unique Cu-Zn-Mg mineral complex, traditionally used for inflamed, damaged, and acne-prone skin.
- Function: Skin regeneration, structural integrity support
- Science: Copper peptides and copper salts are well-documented for promoting collagen synthesis and tissue repair
BetaineProven
A sugar beet-derived amino acid derivative and natural osmolyte. Betaine controls cell-water balance, protects proteins from denaturation, and provides gentle moisturization. Helps soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Function: Osmoprotectant, humectant, skin barrier support
- Source: Derived from sugar beet
- Science: Proven osmolyte that controls cell hydration and protects skin proteins
16 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Pentylene Glycol, Lauryl Glucoside, Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Bisabolol, Zinc PCA, Copper Gluconate, Magnesium Sulfate, Xanthan Gum, Acacia Senegal Gum, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse alone as a morning cleanser or as the second step in a double-cleansing routine after an oil-based makeup remover (like Skintegra Atomic). Rinse well, then proceed with exfoliants, serums, and moisturizers.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face. Avoid hot water, which can strip natural oils and compromise the skin barrier.
Dispense & Lather
Pump a small amount onto damp hands and rub until the aqua-jelly texture transforms into a soft, gentle foam. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Apply to your face using circular, upward motions for about 30 seconds. The slippery texture glides effortlessly to lift impurities without friction.
Rinse & Continue
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry. Immediately continue with your toner, serums, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or inflammation-prone skin
- Your current cleanser leaves skin feeling tight or dry
- You want a gel cleanser that won't strip your skin barrier
- You have acne-prone or rosacea-affected skin
- You practice double cleansing and need a gentle second step
- You want a minimalist, fragrance-free formula
- You need a fungal acne-safe cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You need heavy-duty waterproof makeup removal (use an oil cleanser first)
- You prefer a rich, creamy, or milk-textured cleanser
- You want exfoliating acids in your cleanser (try Skintegra Clarion 2% BHA instead)
- You enjoy a strong lather or foam experience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESZinc PCA regulates sebum production. Gel texture feels fresh without adding oil. Effectively removes excess sebum without over-stripping.
More hydrating agents than surfactants prevent that tight, stripped feeling. Follow with a rich moisturizer for best results.
Balances cleansing power and hydration perfectly across oily and dry zones. pH 5.5 supports the skin's natural balance.
Dermatologically tested on sensitive skin. Bisabolol and betaine soothe inflammation. Free from all major irritants and allergens.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe. Zinc PCA combats acne-causing bacteria while Cu-Zn-Mg complex supports damaged skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Comfort
No tightness, dryness, or irritation after cleansing. Skin feels clean, smooth, and hydrated — the aqua-jelly texture is immediately noticeable.
95% noticed immediatelyReduced Redness & Irritation
Bisabolol and betaine begin soothing chronic redness and reactivity. Skin barrier function starts to improve as harsh surfactant damage reverses.
80% noticed improvementSebum Balance & Clearer Skin
Zinc PCA delivers measurable sebum reduction after 28 days of use. Fewer breakouts and improved pore clarity as the mineral complex supports skin integrity.
70% noticed clearer skinStrengthened Barrier & Overall Improvement
Consistent use leads to a visibly healthier, more resilient skin barrier. Less sensitivity, fewer breakouts, and improved tolerance to active ingredients in your routine.
85% reported overall improvementRatings by platform
188+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally gentle — no tightness or dryness after use
- More hydrating agents than surfactants in the formula
- pH 5.5 respects the skin's natural acid mantle
- Unique Cu-Zn-Mg mineral complex for inflamed/acne skin
- Only 16 clean, purposeful ingredients
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, vegan, cruelty-free
- Works beautifully in double-cleansing routines
- Hygienic pump bottle — product stays contamination-free
- A small amount goes a long way — very economical
Criticized
- Limited international availability outside EU
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Gel texture may not remove heavy waterproof makeup alone
- The natural bluish color can be unexpected at first
- Mild lather — users expecting thick foam may find it too light
- No exfoliating properties (need a separate exfoliant)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Larger 473ml bottle at a lower price. Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier support. However, lacks the Cu-Zn-Mg mineral complex and bisabolol. Cream-to-foam texture vs. Amphibian's aqua-jelly. Contains fatty alcohols (not fungal acne safe).
A close match in gentleness and philosophy. Also fragrance-free with mild surfactants. But simpler formula without the mineral complex, bisabolol, or betaine soothing actives. Comparable pH level and sensitivity focus.
Budget-friendly alternative with ceramide-3 and niacinamide. Milky, cream texture vs. gel. Larger 400ml size. Missing the unique mineral complex and Zinc PCA for sebum control. Contains prebiotic thermal water instead.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Hygienic pump bottle (200ml) — prevents contamination and product waste. Recyclable packaging.
200ml exceeds carry-on limit. Travel-size 50ml version available for flights and TSA/EU liquid restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Skintegra Amphibian contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All 16 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes. Amphibian is fungal acne safe. It contains no ferments, fatty acids (C11-C24), esters, polysorbates, oils, or other ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. The formula uses only amphoteric and amino acid surfactants with mineral actives, making it one of the safest cleansers for fungal acne-prone skin.
Absolutely. Amphibian's pH 5.5 formula is ideal as a cleanser before applying active ingredients. Its gentle surfactants won't compromise your skin barrier before acids or retinol, and unlike alkaline cleansers, it won't raise your skin's pH, allowing acid-based products to work optimally. It pairs perfectly with Skintegra's own active product line.
Amphibian is formulated for all skin types but is especially well-suited for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Normal to oily skin types tend to prefer its gel texture. However, the brand confirms it is gentle enough for dry skin as well. The Zinc PCA is particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, while bisabolol and betaine make it excellent for sensitive and reactive skin.
You'll feel an immediate difference — no tightness or dryness after first use. Within 1–2 weeks, you should notice reduced redness and irritation as bisabolol and betaine soothe the skin. After 4 weeks of consistent use, Zinc PCA delivers measurable sebum reduction. Full barrier-strengthening benefits become apparent after 6–8 weeks of daily use.
Amphibian is your water-based cleanser step. Use it as a standalone morning cleanser, or as the second step in an evening double-cleansing routine (after an oil-based cleanser like Skintegra Atomic to remove sunscreen and makeup). After rinsing, immediately continue with toner, exfoliants, serums, and moisturizer.
No. Amphibian has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It contains no oils, silicones, fatty alcohols, or any ingredients known to clog pores. Every ingredient in its 16-ingredient formula is non-comedogenic. It is safe for acne-prone skin and will not contribute to breakouts or clogged pores.
Amphibian has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The hygienic pump bottle helps keep the product uncontaminated throughout its shelf life. Since a small amount of product is sufficient per use, the 200ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, well within the 12-month window.
Verdict: Skintegra Amphibian is an outstanding gentle gel cleanser that punches well above its weight class. Its unique formulation — where hydrating agents actually outnumber surfactants — sets it apart from virtually every gel cleanser on the market. The Cu-Zn-Mg mineral complex, bisabolol, and betaine deliver genuine therapeutic benefits for inflamed, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. With only 16 carefully chosen ingredients, pH 5.5 balance, and full fungal acne safety, it's a near-perfect cleanser for anyone prioritizing skin barrier health. The only thing holding it back is limited international availability and the fact that heavy makeup wearers will need a dedicated first-step remover.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|