Aquarius BHA + Blue Tansy Clarity Cleanser
Aquarius BHA + Blue Tansy Clarity Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gel-to-foam cleanser and treatment in one with natural BHA from willow bark and soothing blue tansy oil that deeply cleans pores and gently exfoliates acne-prone skin without stripping or drying. Formulated specifically for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin types.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Willow bark BHA penetrates pores to dissolve excess sebum and clear congestion without over-stripping the skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
Willow bark BHA penetrates pores to dissolve excess sebum and clear congestion without over-stripping the skin.
Blue Tansy Soothing
Rich in azulene, blue tansy oil calms redness and inflammation while balancing oil production naturally.
Oil Control
Zinc PCA helps regulate sebum production and provides antibacterial benefits to prevent future breakouts.
Gentle Exfoliation
Natural BHA from willow bark provides gentle yet effective exfoliation that is milder than synthetic salicylic acid.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains willow bark extract (natural salicylates). While topical application is generally considered safer than synthetic salicylic acid, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or nursing.
This formula does not contain fatty acids, esters, or ferments that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne.
Low comedogenic rating of 1/5. Formulated without pore-clogging oils or heavy ingredients that could cause breakouts.
While gentler than synthetic BHA, patch test first if you have very sensitive or reactive skin. The menthyl lactate provides a mild cooling sensation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWillow Bark Extract (Salix Nigra)Proven
A natural source of salicin, which provides BHA-like benefits. This gentle alternative to synthetic salicylic acid helps unclog pores, reduce excess oil, and promote gentle exfoliation without harsh irritation.
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, controls sebum production
- Advantage: Gentler than synthetic salicylic acid, less irritating for sensitive skin
- Note: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help calm acne
Blue Tansy Oil (Tanacetum Annuum)Proven
A Mediterranean flower oil rich in chamazulene, which gives the product its distinctive blue color. Known for powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help calm redness and balance oily skin.
- Key Compound: Chamazulene - naturally occurring blue compound with anti-inflammatory action
- Benefits: Soothes redness, balances oil production, calms irritated skin
- Research: Studied for antioxidant and potential antifungal properties
Zinc PCAPromising
A combination of zinc with pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), an important component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor. Helps regulate sebum, reduce shine, and provides antimicrobial benefits against acne-causing bacteria.
- Sebum Control: Clinical studies show statistically significant reduction in sebum after 28 days
- Antimicrobial: Strong activity against P. acnes bacteria
- Hydration: PCA component helps maintain skin moisture while controlling oil
Pineapple Fruit ExtractPromising
Contains natural enzymes including bromelain that provide gentle enzymatic exfoliation. Helps brighten skin tone and improve texture while supporting the BHA's pore-clearing action.
- Enzymes: Natural bromelain helps dissolve dead skin cells
- Brightening: Helps even skin tone and improve radiance
30 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Lauryl Glucoside, Coco-Glucoside, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract, Tanacetum Annuum Flower Oil, Zinc PCA, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Menthyl Lactate, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lactobacillus Ferment, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Betaine, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your primary cleanser morning and night. Can be used alone or as the second step in a double-cleanse routine after an oil cleanser. Pairs well with Herbivore Lapis Blue Tansy Face Oil.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense Product
Pump 1-2 times into wet palms. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Create Lather
Add water and work between palms to create a gentle, light foam.
Massage onto Skin
Apply to wet face and massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on oily areas and pores.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with your regular skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with clogged pores and blackheads
- You want a gentle exfoliating cleanser for daily use
- You prefer clean, natural beauty products
- You have acne-prone skin but find synthetic BHA too harsh
- You want to control shine without over-drying
- You have fungal acne and need a safe cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You need a heavy-duty makeup remover
- You prefer fragrance-free products (has natural herbaceous scent)
- You are pregnant/breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You are allergic to aspirin or salicylates
- You prefer a cream or milk cleanser texture
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. BHA and Zinc PCA effectively control sebum without over-stripping. Leaves skin clean and balanced, not tight.
Perfect for balancing oily T-zone while being gentle enough for drier cheeks. Non-stripping formula maintains moisture balance.
Formulated specifically for blemish-prone skin. BHA clears pores while blue tansy soothes inflammation and redness from breakouts.
Gentler than synthetic BHA formulas. Blue tansy provides calming benefits. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
May be too clarifying for very dry skin. Consider using only in PM or alternating with a hydrating cleanser like Pink Cloud.
Results timeline
WEEK 6-8Clean, Fresh Feel
Skin feels deeply cleansed and refreshed without tightness. Visible reduction in surface oil and shine.
95% noticedReduced Oiliness
Noticeable improvement in oil control throughout the day. Pores begin to appear clearer and less congested.
78% noticedClearer Complexion
Visible reduction in blackheads and minor breakouts. Skin texture becomes smoother and more refined.
72% noticedBalanced, Healthy Skin
Long-term improvement in pore appearance and overall clarity. Skin maintains balanced oil production with consistent use.
65% noticedRatings by platform
900+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective for daily use
- Doesn't strip or over-dry skin
- Beautiful blue color and herbaceous scent
- Clean, natural ingredients (99% natural)
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Noticeable improvement in pore congestion
- Sustainable glass packaging
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Criticized
- Expensive for the size ($26/100ml)
- Heavy glass bottle not travel-friendly
- Pump dispenser difficult to use
- Strong herbaceous scent not for everyone
- May not be strong enough for severe acne
- Contains willow bark - pregnancy caution
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains salicylic acid plus ceramides and niacinamide. More gentle formula with barrier-supporting ingredients. Larger size, fragrance-free, but uses synthetic BHA instead of natural willow bark.
Straightforward 2% salicylic acid formula with zinc for oil control. No soothing botanicals like blue tansy. More potent exfoliation but may be more drying for some.
Contains 0.5% salicylic acid. Science-backed formula designed for acne. Lacks the natural botanical approach and soothing blue tansy but well-researched and effective.
Clean beauty alternative with tea tree instead of blue tansy. Similar natural approach and sustainability focus. Squalane base instead of BHA focus.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Blue tansy oil can degrade with heat and light exposure.
Glass bottle with pump dispenser. Glass jar and cap are recyclable after rinsing. Pump should be disposed of properly.
Yes, 100ml is TSA-compliant. However, the heavy glass bottle may not be ideal for travel. Consider decanting into a smaller container.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains willow bark extract, a natural source of salicylates (similar to salicylic acid). While topical willow bark is generally considered safer than synthetic salicylic acid because salicylates cannot be converted to salicylic acid on the skin's surface, some healthcare providers recommend caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We recommend consulting your doctor or dermatologist before using this product if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.
Yes! This cleanser is fungal acne safe according to ingredient analysis databases like SkinSort. The formula does not contain fatty acids, oils, esters, or ferments that feed malassezia yeast. It's a safe option for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne).
Yes, since this is a rinse-off cleanser, it can generally be used alongside other actives. The willow bark BHA is gentle and washes off, minimizing risk of over-exfoliation. However, if using multiple strong actives (retinol, vitamin C, or leave-on AHA/BHA), start slowly and monitor your skin for signs of irritation. You may want to use this cleanser in the PM and vitamin C in the AM, or alternate days with retinol.
This cleanser is formulated specifically for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling sebum, unclogging pores, and balancing oily skin without over-stripping. Those with very dry skin may find it too clarifying for daily use and might prefer using it only in the PM or alternating with a hydrating cleanser like Herbivore's Pink Cloud.
You'll feel cleaner, refreshed skin immediately after use. Reduced oiliness is typically noticed within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. More significant improvements in pore clarity, blackheads, and overall skin texture are usually visible after 3-4 weeks. For best results with acne, allow 6-8 weeks of consistent daily use as skin cell turnover takes time.
Use Aquarius as your primary cleanser at the first step of your routine, both morning and night. If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing by using an oil cleanser first, then following with Aquarius as your second cleanse. After cleansing, continue with your toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF (in the morning).
No, this cleanser has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's formulated specifically to unclog pores, not cause congestion. The formula is free from heavy oils and pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the BHA from willow bark actively works to clear existing pore congestion and prevent future clogged pores.
The cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the integrity of the blue tansy oil and other botanical ingredients. If you notice any change in color, scent, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: Herbivore Aquarius BHA + Blue Tansy Clarity Cleanser is an excellent choice for those seeking a clean, natural approach to acne and oil control. The gentle willow bark BHA provides effective exfoliation without the harshness of synthetic salicylic acid, while blue tansy soothes and calms troubled skin. It's particularly standout for being fungal acne safe – a rarity in BHA cleansers. The premium price point and smaller size may be drawbacks for budget-conscious shoppers, but the luxurious formula, sustainable packaging, and visible results justify the investment for clean beauty enthusiasts with oily or acne-prone skin.
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):
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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
Cleansing, Surfactant
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|