Aquaporin Booster 05% Cleanser
Aquaporin Booster 05% Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH 5.5 hydrating cleanser powered by Aquaporin Booster technology (Glyceryl Glucoside from BASF Germany) combined with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5, and Betaine to cleanse without stripping moisture. Formulated with ultra-mild surfactants for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin that feels tight after washing.
Aquaporin Channel Stimulation
Glyceryl Glucoside activates aquaporin water channels in the epidermis, boosting moisture transport between skin cells for deep hydration from within.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAquaporin Channel Stimulation
Glyceryl Glucoside activates aquaporin water channels in the epidermis, boosting moisture transport between skin cells for deep hydration from within.
Ultra-Mild Surfactants
Uses surfactants with very low Zein Score — a scientific measurement of harshness — ensuring thorough cleansing without stripping your skin barrier.
Multi-Humectant Complex
Combines Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Diglycerin, Betaine, and Vitamin B5 to lock in moisture even during cleansing, leaving skin plump and supple.
Skin Soothing Botanicals
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein softens skin while Oat Extract and Allantoin calm inflammation and irritation for a comfortable post-wash feel.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Glyceryl Oleate (oleic acid ester), PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, and PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate — all known triggers for malassezia yeast.
Most ingredients score 0 on the comedogenic scale. As a rinse-off product, pore-clogging risk is minimal. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulphate-free. Formulated at skin-identical pH 5.5 with ultra-mild surfactants tested for low irritation potential.
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein is present. If you have a wheat or gluten sensitivity, patch test before use or consult your dermatologist.
Includes PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate and PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate as emulsifiers. Generally considered safe in rinse-off products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlyceryl Glucoside 0.5%Proven
The star ingredient — a sugar-based molecule sourced from BASF (Germany) that stimulates aquaporin water channels in the epidermis, enhancing the skin's natural ability to transport and retain moisture between cells.
- Mechanism: Upregulates Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) expression in keratinocytes, improving intercellular water flow
- Synergy: Works in combination with Glycerin for proven aquaporin stimulation
- Benefit: Addresses age-related decline in aquaporin channel expression for sustained hydration
Glycerin HighProven
A powerful, skin-identical humectant listed as the second ingredient — indicating a high concentration. Attracts water to the skin's surface and keeps the lipid barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — completely non-comedogenic
- Irritancy: 0 — non-irritating at all concentrations
- Research: Effective from 3% with enhanced benefits for dry skin at 20–40% concentration
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer ActiveProven
A cross-linked form of Hyaluronic Acid with up to 5x the water-binding capacity of regular HA. Provides sustained, long-lasting hydration that persists even after rinsing.
- Advantage: Cross-linked structure resists being washed away, delivering lasting moisture
- Molecular Weight: Larger molecular network creates a hydrating film on skin surface
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) ActiveProven
Pro-vitamin B5 that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. A versatile humectant with proven anti-inflammatory and barrier-strengthening properties.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 | Irritancy: 0
- Benefit: Helps skin produce lipids essential for a strong, healthy barrier
- Soothing: Reduces irritation caused by surfactants and environmental stressors
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein ActivePromising
A protein complex of amino acids and peptides with moisture-balancing and film-forming properties. Counteracts potential irritation from cleansing agents for a softer, smoother post-wash feel.
- Function: Creates a protective film that locks in moisture during cleansing
- Synergy: Works with humectants to prevent post-wash tightness and dryness
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract + Allantoin ActiveProven
A soothing duo that calms irritation and inflammation. Oat extract is a well-documented skin protectant, while Allantoin promotes cell regeneration and wound healing.
- Oat Extract: Contains beta-glucan and avenanthramides with anti-inflammatory activity
- Allantoin: Promotes skin renewal and helps repair the moisture barrier
25 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Glyceryl Glucoside, Diglycerin, Methylpropanediol, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Pentylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Panthenol, Betaine, Sodium PCA, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Allantoin, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Lactic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 of your routine, AM & PM. Can also serve as a second cleanser in a double-cleansing method. If wearing heavy silicone-based makeup or sunscreen, consider an oil cleanser first.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face and neck to dampen the skin before applying the cleanser.
Lather in Hands
Pour an appropriate amount into wet palms and rub together to create a light, gentle lather.
Massage Gently
Apply to face and neck using circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on T-zone and areas prone to buildup.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with toner or serum.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels tight, dry, or stripped after cleansing
- You have dry, dehydrated, or mature skin that needs moisture replenishment
- You want a fragrance-free, sulphate-free cleanser for sensitive skin
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe daily cleanser
- You prefer science-backed, affordable skincare with transparent formulations
- You want a cleanser that can handle light makeup and sunscreen removal
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — contains FA triggers
- You prefer a rich, foamy lather — this produces light, minimal foam
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (double cleanse recommended)
- You have a wheat or gluten allergy (contains Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein)
- You have very oily skin and want a mattifying, deep-cleansing wash
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cleanser was built for dry skin. The aquaporin boosters and multi-humectant formula replenish moisture while cleansing, leaving zero tightness.
Addresses water loss at the cellular level by stimulating aquaporin channels. Cross-linked HA delivers sustained hydration even after rinsing.
Fragrance-free, pH 5.5, ultra-mild surfactants, plus soothing Oat Extract and Allantoin. Ideal for reactive, easily irritated skin.
Cleanses effectively without over-drying cheeks. May not feel deep-cleaning enough for very oily T-zones during hot weather.
May not feel cleansing enough for very oily skin. Light foam and hydrating formula are designed more for dryness than oil control.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and gentle formula. However, not fungal acne safe. Good for acne-prone skin that's also dehydrated.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels soft, hydrated, and comfortable immediately after first use. No post-wash tightness or dryness. A noticeable difference from regular foaming cleansers.
97% noticed instant hydrationReduced Tightness & Dryness
Post-cleansing tightness and flaking significantly reduce. Skin starts to feel more balanced and supple throughout the day, even before applying moisturizer.
85% reported less drynessImproved Hydration Levels
Aquaporin stimulation starts delivering visible results — skin appears plumper, smoother, and more radiant. Dehydration lines begin to soften.
78% saw improved textureStrengthened Moisture Barrier
Consistent use helps rebuild and maintain a healthier moisture barrier. Skin retains hydration better throughout the day and is less reactive to environmental stressors.
70% reported stronger barrierRatings by platform
13K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — no tightness, dryness, or stripping after wash
- Science-backed aquaporin booster technology with BASF-sourced ingredients
- Fragrance-free, sulphate-free, and pH-balanced at 5.5
- Multi-humectant formula leaves skin feeling plump and hydrated
- Excellent value for money — premium ingredients at an affordable price point
- Works well for sensitive and easily irritated skin types
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Transparent ingredient sourcing and concentrations
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe — contains Glyceryl Oleate and PEG esters
- Light foam may not feel "clean enough" for oily skin users
- Small 100ml size runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Watery gel texture can be messy to dispense from tube
- Not effective for heavy or waterproof makeup removal alone
- Contains wheat protein — not suitable for wheat/gluten allergies
- Limited availability outside of India and Amazon
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Ceramide-based hydrating cleanser with similar non-stripping philosophy. Larger 16oz size available. Lacks aquaporin technology but has ceramides for barrier repair. Thicker, creamier texture.
Ultra-gentle cleanser free from virtually all common irritants. Simpler formula without aquaporin boosters or HA. Better for extreme sensitivity but less hydrating post-wash.
French pharmacy hydrating cleanser with ceramides, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water. No aquaporin technology. More widely available but pricier per ml.
Same brand, different approach. Higher concentration of Oat Extract (6%) for soothing. Lacks Glyceryl Glucoside aquaporin technology but is also extremely gentle and hydrating.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (18 months total shelf life from date of manufacturing)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep away from naked flame or direct heat sources.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap
Yes — 100ml meets TSA carry-on liquid limits
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All active ingredients — Glyceryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, and Allantoin — are considered safe for use during pregnancy. As always, consult your OB-GYN if you have specific concerns.
No. This cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Glyceryl Oleate (an oleic acid ester), PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, and PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate — all of which are known to feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like the Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser instead.
Yes. This is a gentle, pH-balanced rinse-off cleanser that works well as the cleansing step before any active treatment. Its hydrating formula actually helps prepare skin for potentially irritating actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs by maintaining moisture levels. Using a hydrating cleanser like this one can help reduce irritation from strong actives.
This cleanser is specifically formulated for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin types. It excels at addressing post-wash tightness and dryness. It also works well for combination skin and mature skin. For very oily or acne-prone skin that needs deep cleansing, you may find it too gentle — consider the Minimalist Salicylic Acid + LHA 2% Cleanser instead.
You will feel an immediate difference in skin comfort from the first use — skin feels soft and hydrated without any tightness. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, you should notice significantly less post-wash dryness. Visible improvements in skin plumpness, radiance, and overall hydration typically appear around 3–4 weeks as the aquaporin stimulation takes effect.
This cleanser is Step 1 in your routine, used on wet skin both morning and evening. If you wear heavy or waterproof makeup/sunscreen, use an oil-based first cleanser and follow with this as your second cleanser. After rinsing, continue with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The vast majority of its ingredients score 0 on the comedogenic scale. As a rinse-off product that stays on skin for less than a minute, the risk of pore clogging is minimal. It is generally considered safe for acne-prone skin, though it is not fungal acne safe.
The cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months and a total shelf life of 18 months from the date of manufacturing. The 100ml tube typically lasts 6–8 weeks when used twice daily (AM and PM). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat for best results.
Verdict: The Minimalist Aquaporin Booster 0.5% Cleanser is an impressively formulated hydrating cleanser that punches well above its price point. The BASF-sourced Glyceryl Glucoside brings genuine innovation to an affordable product, and the multi-humectant complex delivers on its promise of "no-tightness" cleansing. It is an excellent choice for dry, dehydrated, sensitive, and mature skin types — and a strong pick for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals looking for a safe daily cleanser. The main drawbacks are its lack of fungal acne safety, small bottle size, and light foam that may disappoint oily skin types. Overall, a standout in the affordable hydrating cleanser category with science-backed ingredients and transparent formulation.
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 3 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 |
Glyceryl Glucoside
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Diglycerin
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|