Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser
Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle 3-in-1 bouncy gel cleanser, makeup remover, and deep clarifying mask packed with antioxidant-rich blueberries, hyaluronic acid, and gentle AHAs. This hydrating cleanser delivers all the antioxidant-rich benefits of blueberries while refining pores and leaving skin clear, radiant, and glowy without feeling stripped.
Antioxidant-Rich Blueberry
Contains real blueberry pieces and extract to fight free radicals and prevent premature aging while naturally hydrating and calming inflammation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntioxidant-Rich Blueberry
Contains real blueberry pieces and extract to fight free radicals and prevent premature aging while naturally hydrating and calming inflammation.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate holds up to 1000x its weight in water, deeply moisturizing skin so it feels bouncy and supple after cleansing.
Gentle AHA Exfoliation
Glycolic and lactic acids gently exfoliate dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin over time without harsh stripping.
3-in-1 Versatility
Use as a daily cleanser, makeup remover, or leave on for 5 minutes as a clarifying mask for enhanced results.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains glycolic acid and licorice root. Glycolic acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy in low concentrations like cleansers, but consult your doctor. No retinoids, BHAs, or hydroquinone.
No fatty acids, esters, or ferments that feed malassezia yeast. Contains bilberry extract which may help combat fungal acne.
Comedogenic rating of 0/5. No pore-clogging oils or heavy ingredients. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Features a light blueberry scent from fragrance/parfum. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
Contains AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid) which can increase sun sensitivity. Always use SPF during the day when using this cleanser.
Free from parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, alcohol, and synthetic dyes. Vegan and cruelty-free.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBlueberry Extract & FruitHero Ingredient
Real blueberry pieces and extract provide potent antioxidant protection. Rich in vitamins C and E, anthocyanins, and polyphenols that fight free radicals and environmental stressors.
- Benefit: Helps prevent premature aging and oxidative damage
- Benefit: Naturally hydrates and calms inflammation
- Benefit: May help minimize discoloration over time
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, this powerful humectant can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, providing deep hydration without heaviness.
- Function: Attracts and binds water to skin for intense hydration
- Benefit: Plumps skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines
- Benefit: Helps prevent the tight, stripped feeling after cleansing
Glycolic Acid + Lactic AcidAHAs
A gentle blend of alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate the skin's surface by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells.
- Glycolic Acid: Smallest AHA molecule, penetrates effectively for brightening
- Lactic Acid: Larger molecule, gentler exfoliation plus hydrating properties
- Note: At cleanser pH (~5.5), exfoliation is mild but cumulative over time
Licorice Root Extract BrighteningProven
A research-backed brightening agent that helps even skin tone and calm irritation. Contains glabridin which inhibits tyrosinase.
- Benefit: Helps fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory and soothing properties
- Studies: Shown to be effective for brightening without irritation
Caulerpa Lentillifera (Seaweed) ExtractPromising
Also known as sea grapes, this seaweed extract provides excellent emollient and moisturizing properties while being gentle on sensitive skin.
- Benefit: Rich in minerals and vitamins for skin nourishment
- Benefit: Helps maintain skin's moisture barrier
Beta-GlucanSoothing
A powerful skin-soothing ingredient derived from oats or yeast that helps calm irritation and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties
- Benefit: Helps sensitive skin tolerate active ingredients
22 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Decyl Glucoside, Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract, Beta-Glucan, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Physalis Peruviana Fruit Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Morus Nigra Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Fragrance/Parfum.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step after an oil cleanser for double cleansing, or as a standalone morning cleanser. Can also be used alone to remove light makeup.
How to use
HOW TO USEAs a Daily Cleanser
Dispense one pump into wet palms and rub hands to create a lather. Massage gently onto wet skin for one minute, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
As a Makeup Remover
Use two pumps to create a lather in wet palms. Gently massage into wet face and neck in small circular motions for a full minute to eliminate all traces of makeup. Rinse thoroughly.
As a 5-Minute Mask
Apply a generous layer to clean, dry skin. After 5 minutes, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and a splash of cold water for a refreshing finish. Great to do in the shower!
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily to combination skin
- You want gentle exfoliation without irritation
- You're new to AHAs and want to ease into acids
- You want a multi-use product (cleanser + mask)
- You enjoy sensorial, fruit-scented products
- You want a cleanser that doesn't strip skin
- You have concerns about pores and dullness
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're sensitive to glycolic or lactic acid
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal
- You want a foaming cleanser with rich lather
- You're on a tight budget (there are cheaper alternatives)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel formula cleanses without adding shine. AHAs help control excess sebum and refine pores over time.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrating yet clarifying formula suits the T-zone and cheeks equally.
Maintains skin's natural balance while providing gentle exfoliation and antioxidant benefits for a healthy glow.
Hyaluronic acid provides hydration, but some users with dry skin report tightness. Follow with a rich moisturizer immediately after.
Generally gentle formula with soothing ingredients. Contains fragrance and AHAs - patch test recommended for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe. AHAs help prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Won the Byrdie Award for Best Cleanser.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSClean, Bouncy Skin Feel
Skin feels clean and refreshed without that tight, stripped feeling. Notice a soft, bouncy texture immediately after rinsing.
95% noticedImproved Skin Texture
Gentle AHA exfoliation begins to smooth rough patches and uneven texture. Skin starts to look more radiant and less dull.
78% noticedRefined Pores & Brightness
With consistent use, pores appear more refined. Cumulative antioxidant benefits contribute to a brighter, more even complexion.
65% noticedOverall Skin Clarity
Long-term users report clearer skin with fewer breakouts and a healthy, glowing appearance. Best results when combined with SPF.
55% noticedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective cleansing
- Doesn't strip skin or leave it tight
- Pleasant blueberry scent
- 3-in-1 versatility (cleanser, remover, mask)
- Beautiful, Instagram-worthy packaging
- Contains visible blueberry pieces
- Skin feels bouncy and soft after use
- Good for introducing AHAs to routine
- Fungal acne and pregnancy-friendly formula
Criticized
- Pricey for a cleanser ($34/160ml)
- Can cause dryness for some users
- Thick gel hard to dispense from pump
- Doesn't foam/lather as much as expected
- Contains fragrance (not for sensitive noses)
- May not remove heavy/waterproof makeup alone
- AHAs at cleanser pH have limited exfoliation
- Some users report slight irritation around eyes/mouth
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar hydrating gel texture with hyaluronic acid. No AHAs or antioxidant berries, but cleanses gently without stripping. Best dupe for the hydrating, non-drying feel.
Ceramide-rich formula that hydrates while cleansing. More milky than gel texture, no AHAs. Better for very dry skin, lacks the berry antioxidants and exfoliation.
Gentle, dermatologist-recommended formula. Contains niacinamide instead of AHAs. Better for sensitive skin, lacks the fruity sensorial experience and antioxidant blend.
Contains BHA instead of AHAs for exfoliation. Great for acne-prone skin. More targeted for breakouts, less luxurious texture and no hydrating hyaluronic acid.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESummer Fridays Super Amino Gel Cleanser
Storage & shelf life
18 MONTHS18 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Blueberry sediment may settle at the bottom - this is normal.
Transparent pump bottle (PET plastic, 100% recyclable). Pump may be separated for recycling.
Mini size (30ml) available and TSA-approved. Full size (160ml) exceeds carry-on liquid limits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe cleanser is free from retinoids, BHAs, and hydroquinone - the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it contains glycolic acid and licorice root extract which some practitioners advise caution with. Glow Recipe lists it as pregnancy-safe on their blog. The AHA concentration in a wash-off product is generally considered low-risk, but always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Yes! This cleanser is fungal acne safe. It doesn't contain fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. It even contains bilberry fruit extract which may help combat fungal acne. It's one of the few Glow Recipe cleansers that is fungal acne safe.
Since this cleanser contains gentle AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid), be cautious when layering with other exfoliating products. It's generally fine to use with vitamin C and retinol since you rinse it off, but if you have sensitive skin, you may want to alternate days. Avoid using strong AHA/BHA serums or peels on the same day to prevent over-exfoliation.
This cleanser works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. It's also excellent for acne-prone skin due to its non-comedogenic, fungal acne-safe formula. Those with dry skin may experience some tightness and should follow with a hydrating moisturizer immediately. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to the AHAs and fragrance.
You'll notice the immediate clean, bouncy feel right away. For texture improvements and brightening, expect to see gradual results over 2-4 weeks as the gentle AHAs work cumulatively. Pore refinement and overall clarity typically take 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Remember that cleanser effects are more subtle than leave-on treatments.
Use it as the second step in a double-cleansing routine (after an oil cleanser) at night, or as your only cleanser in the morning. It can also be used alone to remove light makeup. Apply to wet skin, massage for 1 minute, then rinse. Follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and SPF (AM). For the mask method, apply to clean, dry skin for 5 minutes.
No, this cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 and is non-comedogenic. It doesn't contain pore-clogging oils or heavy ingredients. The AHAs actually help prevent clogged pores by gently exfoliating dead skin cells. It's safe for acne-prone skin and won't contribute to breakouts.
The cleanser has an 18-month (18M) period after opening (PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You may notice the blueberry sediment settling at the bottom over time - this is normal and doesn't affect the product's efficacy. The transparent bottle makes it easy to see how much product remains.
Verdict: The Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser is a well-formulated, sensorial cleanser that delivers on its promise of gentle cleansing without stripping skin. It's particularly excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types who want to introduce AHAs into their routine in a gentle way. The fungal acne-safe formula is a standout feature. While the $34 price point is steep for a cleanser, the 3-in-1 versatility, Instagram-worthy packaging, and effective ingredient list justify the investment for many users. Those with dry skin or fragrance sensitivities may want to consider alternatives. Best paired with SPF for optimal results.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract
|
|
|
| 1 |
Beta-Glucan
Skin Conditioning, Bulking Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|








