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Biore Skin Caring Mild Smooth Facial Foam

Biore Skin Caring Mild Smooth Facial Foam

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Japan J-BEAUTY

This foaming cleanser combines sorbitol humectant with a surfactant system (myristic and lauric acids) to remove oil and impurities while maintaining skin hydration. The lightweight foam formula rinses cleanly without residue, making it suitable for daily cleansing. Best for those who prefer a traditional lather and want a straightforward, fragrance-included option.

Sulfate-FreeSilicone-FreePregnancy Safe
Pregnancy
Safe
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
3/ 5
Type
Cleanser
Key Active
Glycerin
Use
AM & PM
Brand
Biore
PAO
12 months
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Gentle lather that rinses completely

Sorbitol humectant prevents over-drying during cleansing, while the fatty-acid-derived surfactant system (myristic, lauric, and palmitic acids) lifts oil and makeup effectively. The formula is designed to foam on contact and rinse without tightness or residue buildup.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Creamy foam
Absorption
Rinses clean
Finish
Matte, residue-free
Scent
Mild, floral-leaning

Sorbitol hydration retention

Sorbitol acts as a humectant within the foam base, drawing moisture into the skin during cleansing to offset the potential drying effect of surfactants. This helps maintain the skin barrier during daily use.

Lightweight foam texture

The cross-linked acrylate polymer (Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer) stabilizes the foam matrix, creating an airy, easy-to-spread lather that feels light on skin and disperses evenly across the face.

Oil-soluble surfactant blend

Myristic, lauric, and palmitic acids form the core cleansing system, breaking down sebum and oil-based impurities while the Laureth derivatives enhance emulsification for a complete rinse.

Preservative system stability

Phenoxyethanol and parabens (methyl- and propylparaben) work together with Ethylhexylglycerin to maintain formula integrity and prevent microbial growth, ensuring the product remains safe throughout its shelf life.

Clear finish with titanium dioxide

Ci 77891 (titanium dioxide) provides minimal opacity and can support a brightening visual effect, though the amount is cosmetic rather than UV-protective in this cleanser format.

Fragrance inclusion

The formula includes synthetic fragrance (Parfum), adding a pleasant scent profile. This is noted for users who prefer fragranced cleansers or should be avoided by those seeking unscented options.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy-safe formulation

This cleanser is considered safe to use during pregnancy, though patch-testing is always recommended for any new product.

Not fungal-acne safe

Myristic acid and lauric acid are known triggers for Malassezia-prone skin. Those with fungal acne should avoid this cleanser or test carefully on a small area first.

Contains parabens

Methylparaben and propylparaben are included as preservatives. Some users with paraben sensitivity may experience irritation; patch-test before full-face use if you have a known sensitivity.

Fragrance may trigger sensitivity

The synthetic fragrance (Parfum) can be an irritant for those with fragrance-sensitive or compromised barrier skin. Rinse thoroughly if any stinging occurs.

Silicone-free formulation

This cleanser contains no silicones, making it suitable for those avoiding silicone-based products or using silicone-free routines.

Requires gentle post-cleanse hydration

While sorbitol provides some hydration during cleansing, the surfactant-heavy formula still strips lipids. Follow with a hydrating toner or essence to restore moisture balance immediately after use.

No active treatment ingredients

This is a pure cleansing formula with no exfoliating, brightening, or anti-aging actives. It is safe to layer with any treatment serums or active ingredients in your routine.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INCI

Sorbitol Supporting

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that functions as a humectant, drawing water into the skin and retaining moisture within the stratum corneum. In a cleansing base, it counteracts the dehydrating effect of surfactants, helping maintain a softer feel post-wash. It also provides a slightly sweet taste if accidentally ingested, though this is not a safety concern in cosmetic amounts.

  • Mechanism: Humectant that increases water-binding capacity in the outer skin layers
  • Benefit: Reduces tightness or dryness typically associated with foaming cleansers
  • Function: Helps stabilize the foam structure and improves sensory feel

Myristic Acid Supporting

A saturated fatty acid that acts as a surfactant precursor, breaking down oil and sebum-based impurities. Myristic acid is a key component of this cleanser's cleansing power but is known to be comedogenic and a documented Malassezia trigger in some studies. Its inclusion makes the cleanser effective for oily skin but risky for acne-prone or fungal-acne-sensitive individuals.

  • Mechanism: Saturated fatty acid surfactant that disrupts lipid membranes of oil and bacteria
  • Concern: Documented as comedogenic and fungal-acne trigger in susceptible individuals
  • Benefit: Highly effective at removing sebum and makeup from oily skin
Avoid if you have fungal acne or known fatty-acid sensitivity.

Lauric Acid Supporting

Another saturated fatty acid in the surfactant blend, lauric acid enhances the cleanser's degreasing ability. Like myristic acid, it is a known Malassezia trigger and comedogenic agent. Its presence explains why this formula is most suitable for oil-heavy skin types rather than sensitive or acne-prone skin.

  • Mechanism: Fatty acid surfactant that emulsifies oils and lipid-based impurities
  • Concern: Documented Malassezia trigger; comedogenic in some skin types
  • Benefit: Powerful oil-dissolving action, ideal for heavily oiled skin
Not recommended for fungal-acne or acne-prone skin.

Ethylhexylglycerin Supporting

A broad-spectrum preservative booster that works alongside phenoxyethanol and parabens to prevent microbial growth. It is less irritating than formaldehyde-releasers and is considered a mild humectant. The ingredient helps extend the shelf life of the product while maintaining tolerability.

  • Function: Broad-spectrum preservative booster with antimicrobial activity
  • Benefit: Extends product stability without formaldehyde releasers
  • Secondary: Mild humectant that adds slight hydrating benefit

Palmitic Acid Supporting

The third saturated fatty acid in the cleanser blend, palmitic acid contributes to the overall surfactant system. Like myristic and lauric acids, it carries a risk of comedogenicity and is a documented Malassezia trigger. Its combination with the other fatty acids creates a potent cleansing action suited for very oily skin.

  • Mechanism: Saturated fatty acid surfactant for oil solubilization
  • Concern: Comedogenic and fungal-acne trigger in susceptible individuals
  • Benefit: Robust oil-removal capability for heavily sebaceous skin
Avoid if you have fungal acne or acne-prone skin.

Potassium Hydroxide Supporting

An alkaline agent (base) that neutralizes the fatty acids and converts them into their potassium soap form, which is water-soluble and forms the active cleanser. Without this neutralization, the fatty acids would not function as surfactants. It is fully neutralized in the final formula and poses no irritation risk in the finished product.

  • Function: Base that neutralizes fatty acids into water-soluble soap form
  • Mechanism: Enables transformation of fatty acids into functional surfactants
  • Note: Fully neutralized in finished formula; no irritation risk

Phenoxyethanol Supporting

A preservative and humectant that prevents bacterial and fungal contamination while also drawing moisture into the skin. Phenoxyethanol is widely used in cosmetics and considered safe at the typical 0.5–1% concentration, though some users with sensitive skin may react. It helps extend the product's shelf life without relying solely on parabens.

  • Function: Broad-spectrum preservative with antimicrobial and antifungal action
  • Secondary: Mild humectant that adds slight moisturizing benefit
  • Safety: Well-tolerated at typical cosmetic concentrations (0.5–1%)

21 ingredients

Water (Aqua), Sorbitol, Myristic Acid, Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Potassium Hydroxide, Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid, Lauric Acid, Acrylates/​C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Palmitic Acid, Fragrance (Parfum), Polyquaternium-39, Disodium EDTA, PEG-4, BHT, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, PEG-45M, Propylparaben, Ci 77891.

FREE FROM: Sulfates (SLS / SLES) · Silicones · Talc · Mineral Oil · Phthalates · Bisphenols (BPA) · PFAS · Retinoids · Hydroquinone · Formaldehyde Releasers · Heavy Metal Pigments · Gluten
04

Where it fits in your routine

STEP 01
1
▸ This Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Essence
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

This foaming cleanser works best as a morning and evening cleanse, applied to wet skin and rinsed thoroughly with lukewarm water. Allow 30–60 seconds of gentle massage to allow the lather to break down oil and impurities before rinsing. Follow immediately with a hydrating toner or essence to restore moisture, as the fatty acid surfactant system, while effective, can temporarily increase transepidermal water loss.

05

How to use

4 STEPS
1

Wet face

Splash your face with lukewarm water — never hot.

2

Apply & lather

Dispense a small amount, work into a lather between palms, massage onto skin in circles for 30–60 seconds.

3

Rinse thoroughly

Rinse with lukewarm water until skin no longer feels filmy.

4

Pat dry

Gently pat — don't rub — with a clean towel before the next step.

06

Who is it for?

FIT CHECK

Perfect for you if

  • You have oily or combination skin and want an effective oil-removing cleanser.
  • You prefer a traditional foaming formula and enjoy the sensory experience of lather.
  • You want a straightforward, fragrance-included cleanser without active treatment ingredients.
  • You are not prone to fungal acne or fatty-acid sensitivity.
  • You have a daily cleansing routine that includes a hydrating follow-up step.
  • You are comfortable with paraben preservatives and synthetic fragrance.
  • You want a cleanser that rinses completely without residue buildup.

Consider alternatives if

  • You have fungal acne or suspect Malassezia sensitivity.
  • You are looking for a cleanser with brightening, exfoliating, or anti-aging actives.
  • You prefer unscented or fragrance-free skincare products.
  • You have a known sensitivity to parabens or synthetic fragrance.
  • You have dry, sensitive, or compromised-barrier skin and need a gentle formula.
  • You are seeking a silicone-inclusive or mineral-oil-based cleanser.
07

Skin type compatibility

6 TYPES
Dry Skin
Poor

The fatty acid surfactant blend and potassium hydroxide can over-strip already compromised skin, increasing dryness and barrier damage. Sorbitol provides some hydration, but not enough to offset the degreasing action. This cleanser is not recommended for dry skin types.

Oily Skin
Excellent

The potent myristic, lauric, and palmitic acid surfactant system is highly effective at dissolving sebum and leaving skin matte. The foaming texture provides satisfying cleansing feedback, and the light finish suits oil-prone skin well. This is the ideal skin type for this cleanser.

Combination Skin
Good

Works well for the oily zones (T-zone) but may over-dry the cheeks if not followed immediately by hydration. The key is applying toner or essence to dry areas right after cleansing to rebalance moisture. Manageable for combination skin with a disciplined follow-up routine.

Sensitive Skin
Poor

The synthetic fragrance, parabens, and multiple fatty acid surfactants create a higher irritation risk for sensitized skin. The alkaline pH and degreasing action can trigger reactivity. Not recommended unless you have tested and tolerated similar formulas.

Acne-prone Skin
Moderate

While the deep cleansing action may help remove sebum and bacteria, myristic and lauric acids are known comedogenic triggers. Fungal-acne sufferers should avoid entirely. Non-fungal acne may benefit from the cleansing, but only with careful barrier-repair follow-up and monitoring for irritation.

Mature Skin
Moderate

The surfactant system may be too stripping for mature skin, which typically has reduced sebum production and compromised barrier function. However, if mature skin is also oily, the cleansing power could be beneficial. Best paired with intensive post-cleanse hydration and a barrier-supporting routine.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Week 1-2

Initial cleansing efficiency

Users typically notice that the foaming action is satisfying and removes makeup and oil cleanly on the first application. The texture feels light and rinses completely without tightness.

Users frequently noticed effective makeup removal on first use
Week 3-4

Barrier adjustment phase

If using without adequate hydration follow-up, some users may notice mild tightness or slight flaking as the skin adjusts to the surfactant strength. Those pairing it with a hydrating toner report no dryness and sustained cleansing benefit.

Users frequently reported no dryness when using a hydrating toner immediately after
Week 5-8

Consistent texture improvement

With consistent use and proper hydration, the skin typically feels smoother and less congested. Oily skin types report a longer matte finish throughout the day compared to milder cleansers.

Users frequently noticed reduced oiliness by midday with continued use
Week 8+

Sustained cleanse maintenance

The cleanser becomes a dependable part of the routine. Long-term users report that their skin maintains a clearer, more refined texture, though the fatty acid blend means consistent barrier-repair hydration remains essential.

79% confirmed preference for this cleanser's cleansing power over gentler alternatives
09

Ratings by platform

3.2K+ REVIEWS
YesStyle
4.4
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 150ml size depletes quickly with daily use; users wish larger bottles were available.
iHerb
4.6
Rating
850+
Reviews
Main complaint: Mild fragrance may linger on hands after use; some wish it were unscented.
Olive Young
4.3
Rating
600+
Reviews
Main complaint: Requires immediate follow-up with hydrating toner, which adds extra steps; not ideal for minimal routines.
Amazon
4.2
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Shipping from overseas sellers can delay arrival; domestic availability is inconsistent.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Effective foaming action removes oil and makeup thoroughly.
  • Sorbitol provides some hydration during the cleansing step.
  • Rinses completely without residue buildup or film.
  • Lightweight texture feels pleasant to apply and spreads easily.
  • Silicone-free formula suits those avoiding silicones.
  • Long-lasting due to preservative system; no artificial colorants.
  • Affordable price point relative to luxury foaming cleansers.
  • Suitable for daily morning and evening use.
  • Works particularly well for very oily or congested skin types.

Criticized

  • Not recommended for fungal-acne-prone skin; contains documented triggers (myristic, lauric, palmitic acids).
  • Can over-dry sensitive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin without immediate hydration follow-up.
  • Synthetic fragrance may trigger sensitivity in fragrance-reactive individuals.
  • Paraben preservatives; not ideal for those with paraben sensitivity.
  • Requires consistent post-cleanse hydration to avoid tightness; not a standalone cleanser.
  • Moderate package size; may not last as long as larger cleansing balms.
  • Contains no active ingredients (no exfoliating, brightening, or anti-aging benefit).
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
70% Match
CeraVe — Foaming Facial Cleanser
$8–10
Budget Pick

Also a foaming cleanser with fatty acid surfactants, but includes ceramides and hyaluronic acid for better barrier support. Less drying than Biore for sensitive skin, though slightly less degreasing for very oily skin.

65% Match
COSRX — Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser
$10–12
Budget Pick

A low-pH gel cleanser with gentler surfactants and a similar cleansing action. Lacks the foaming texture but offers better tolerance for acne-prone skin and doesn't carry the same fungal-acne risk.

72% Match
Cetaphil — Foaming Facial Cleanser
$7–9
Budget Pick

Lightweight foaming formula with surfactants designed to be gentler on sensitive skin. Cleanses effectively but is less stripping than Biore; better for combination or mildly oily skin rather than sebum-heavy types.

68% Match
Innisfree — Bija Trouble Facial Foaming Cleanser
$9–11
Budget Pick

A K-beauty foaming option with plant-derived surfactants and centella extract. Similar foaming action but includes soothing botanicals, making it gentler than Biore while still removing oil; better for acne-prone skin if not fungal-acne sensitive.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
CeraVe — Foaming Facial Cleanser
Key Actives Ceramides, hyaluronic acid
Texture Light foam
Size 236ml
Best For Sensitive/combination skin
Barrier Support Strong (ceramides)
Neutrogena — Ultra Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Key Actives Mild surfactants only
Texture Gentle foam
Size 177ml
Best For Sensitive skin
Cleansing Power Mild
COSRX — Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser
Key Actives Gentle low-pH surfactants
Texture Gel (no foam)
Size 150ml
Best For Acne-prone/sensitive
Fungal-Acne Safe Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.

Packaging

Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.

Travel Friendly

Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.

14

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes, this cleanser is considered pregnancy-safe. However, patch-test on a small area first if you have not used it before, and discontinue if any irritation occurs. Always confirm with your healthcare provider if you are unsure about any skincare product during pregnancy.

No, this cleanser is not recommended for fungal-acne-prone skin. Myristic acid, lauric acid, and palmitic acid are all documented Malassezia triggers and can worsen fungal acne. If you suspect fungal acne, choose a cleanser with gentler, low-pH surfactants (e.g., COSRX Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser) and consult a dermatologist.

Most users get 4–6 weeks of daily morning and evening use from a 150ml bottle, depending on how much foam they apply per wash. A walnut-sized amount typically generates enough lather to cleanse the entire face. Consider buying in bulk or exploring larger sizes if this is your routine staple.

Yes, always follow with a hydrating toner, essence, or hydrating cleanser to restore moisture immediately after use. The fatty acid surfactant blend is degreasing, and without hydration follow-up, your skin may feel tight or begin flaking within a few days. This is especially important for combination and sensitive skin types.

Yes, but wait 1–2 minutes after rinsing before applying other actives. The cleansing process temporarily raises skin pH due to the potassium hydroxide, and applying potent actives immediately can reduce their efficacy or cause irritation. Allow the skin to return to neutral pH, then apply serums and moisturizer.

No, this is a chemical cleanser (soap-based) with no physical exfoliants. The Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a polymer that stabilizes foam, not an abrasive. It is safe for daily use and does not remove skin via mechanical friction.

Biore (owned by Kao Corporation) sells in mainland China, where animal testing may be required by law. If cruelty-free certification is important to you, check the brand's current policy or choose an independently certified cruelty-free alternative.

The exact pH is not disclosed by the brand, but the presence of potassium hydroxide (a base) suggests the cleanser has a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, typical of soap-based foaming cleansers. This is higher than the skin's natural pH (4.5–5.5), so hydrating follow-up is essential to restore the acid mantle and prevent barrier disruption.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.0 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Biore Skin Caring Mild Smooth Facial Foam is a straightforward foaming cleanser designed for oily and sebum-prone skin. The combination of myristic, lauric, and palmitic acid surfactants creates potent oil-dissolving action, supported by a stabilizing foam matrix and humectant sorbitol to offset drying. The formula rinses completely, feels light, and is fragrance-inclusive for users who enjoy scented cleansers. However, the fatty acid blend carries a documented risk for fungal-acne sufferers and requires immediate post-cleanse hydration to prevent barrier disruption. The 150ml size depletes relatively quickly with daily use, and the presence of synthetic fragrance and parabens may not suit fragrance-sensitive or paraben-averse users. This cleanser is best suited for those with oily or combination skin who have tolerated similar fatty-acid-based formulas, can commit to a hydrating follow-up step, and are not prone to fungal acne.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
% % % %