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Boréade CL Cleansing Cream

Boréade CL Cleansing Cream

Product Description

A high-tolerance, soap-free cleansing cream formulated with 96% natural origin ingredients. Gently purifies oily, acne-prone skin without drying, even when weakened by dermatological treatments like retinoids, isotretinoin, or benzoyl peroxide.

🇫🇷 French Pharmacy · Made in France
✔ 96% Natural Origin ✔ Non-Comedogenic ✔ Soap-Free ✔ Dermatologist Tested ✔ 98% Biodegradable ✔ Not Tested on Animals
Pregnancy Safe
Yes ✔
Fungal Acne Safe
No ✗
Comedogenic Rating
1/5
📦
Size
200ml
🧴
Type
Cream Cleanser
🎯
Target
Acne-Prone
🧪
pH Level
5.5
🌿
Natural
96%

✨ Texture & Feel

💧
Consistency
Rich Cream
👃
Scent
Light Fresh
⏱️
Absorption
Rinse-Off
🎯
Finish
Clean Matte
🧹

S.M.A. Complex

Proprietary Sebum-regulating, Mattifying, and Astringent complex with 5-alpha avocuta, zinc gluconate, and capryloyl glycine.

💧

Creamy Foam

Transforms into a gentle, creamy foam that rinses easily without leaving residue or tightness.

🌾

Quinoa Peptides

Hydrolyzed quinoa seed helps repair and soothe the skin barrier, especially when compromised by treatments.

👁️

Eye-Safe Formula

Gentle enough that it won't sting the eyes, making daily use comfortable and stress-free.

🛡️ Safety & Compatibility

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

No retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone. Contains only mild, pregnancy-safe ingredients like zinc gluconate and glycerin.

⚠️
Not Fungal Acne Safe

Contains soybean oil, phospholipids, and cetearyl alcohol which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have pityrosporum folliculitis.

Non-Comedogenic

Clinically tested to not clog pores. Rating 1/5 on the comedogenic scale.

Treatment Compatible

Specifically formulated for skin undergoing acne treatments (retinoids, isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, cyclines, zinc).

🔬 Ingredient Breakdown

🥑 Butyl Avocadate (5-Alpha Avocuta) Proven

A patented avocado derivative that inhibits 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme responsible for excess sebum production. Helps neutralize shine without drying.

  • Function: Sebum regulator and mattifying agent
  • Clinical Data: Part of ACM's S.M.A. Complex shown to reduce seborrhea by 86%
Targets the root cause of oily skin rather than just absorbing surface oil.

⚗️ Zinc Gluconate Proven

A gentle form of zinc with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps cleanse pores, regulate sebum, and calm irritation.

  • Function: Purifying, antibacterial, sebum control
  • Safety: Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe when used topically

🧬 Capryloyl Glycine Proven

An amino acid derivative with antimicrobial properties. Controls bacterial growth, regulates sebum production, and helps prevent acne formation.

  • Function: Antibacterial, sebum-regulating, purifying
  • Clinical Benefit: Helps reduce appearance of blemishes and breakouts

💧 Glycerin Humectant Proven

A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the air to hydrate skin. Prevents the drying effect often associated with cleansers for oily skin.

  • Function: Moisturizing, barrier protection
  • Benefit: Keeps skin comfortable and balanced after cleansing

🌼 Bisabolol Proven

A chamomile-derived active with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Calms redness and irritation while promoting skin healing.

  • Function: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, healing
  • Source: Derived from chamomile or synthesized

28 ingredients

Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Coco-Glucoside, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Capryloyl Glycine, Glyceryl Caprylate, Phospholipids, Parfum (Fragrance), Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Bisabolol, Butyl Avocadate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Gluconate, Citric Acid, Glycolipids, Potassium Sorbate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Sodium Chloride, Hydrolyzed Chenopodium Quinoa Seed, Maltodextrin, Propyl Gallate.

FREE FROM: Soap, Parabens, Alcohol, SLS/SLES, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Retinoids, Salicylic Acid

🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine

1
This Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Treatment
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Use morning and evening as the first step in your skincare routine. Can be paired with acne treatments like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide.

📝 How to Use

1

Dampen Face

Wet your face with lukewarm water to prepare the skin for cleansing.

2

Apply Product

Dispense 1-2 pumps and emulsify between damp hands to create a creamy foam.

3

Massage Gently

Apply to face using gentle circular motions, avoiding the eye area. Massage for 30-60 seconds.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse with clean lukewarm water and gently pat dry with a soft towel. Follow with your skincare routine.

👤 Who Is It For?

✅ Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
  • Your skin is sensitized by acne treatments (retinoids, isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide)
  • You want a gentle cleanser that won't strip or dry out skin
  • You're looking for a pregnancy-safe cleanser
  • You prefer French pharmacy skincare brands
  • You need something that controls sebum without over-drying

❌ Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
  • You're looking for a very deep cleanse or exfoliation
  • You prefer completely fragrance-free products
  • You have very dry skin that needs oil-based cleansing
  • You want an active-ingredient cleanser (salicylic acid, etc.)

🎯 Skin Type Compatibility

Oily Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Ideal match. S.M.A. Complex regulates sebum production and mattifies without stripping. 86% reduction in seborrhea in clinical trials.

Combination Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Balances oily T-zone without overdrying cheeks. Glycerin maintains hydration where needed.

Acne-Prone Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Non-comedogenic formula with antibacterial zinc and capryloyl glycine. 100% dermatologist approved for acne-prone skin.

Sensitive Skin ★★★★☆ Good

High-tolerance formula with soothing bisabolol. Contains fragrance, so patch test if very reactive.

Dry Skin ★★★☆☆ Moderate

Gentle enough but formulated for oily skin. May not provide enough hydration; consider a cream cleanser instead.

📈 Results Timeline

Immediately

Instant Comfort & Cleanliness

Skin feels clean, soft, soothed, and comfortable. No tightness or dryness. Creamy foam rinses easily.

100% noticed immediate comfort
Week 1-2

Reduced Oiliness

Visible reduction in shine and excess sebum. Skin appears more balanced and less greasy throughout the day.

86% noticed reduced sebum
Week 2-4

Clearer Complexion

Fewer new blemishes forming. Existing breakouts healing faster. Pores appear cleaner and less congested.

90% reported skin not dried out
Month 1-2

Sustained Results

Consistently clearer, more balanced skin. Works synergistically with acne treatments without compromising barrier.

97% found suitable for sensitized skin

⭐ Ratings by Platform

🛒 Amazon
★★★★ 4.3
Rating
150+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Product currently unavailable; some find shipping from European pharmacies needed
💊 French Pharmacies
★★★★★ 4.7
Rating
500+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Contains fragrance which some sensitive users prefer to avoid
🏠 Brand Website
★★★★★ 4.8
Rating
100%
Derm Approval
⚠️ Main complaint: Limited availability outside pharmacy channels
🌍 Care to Beauty
★★★★ 4.5
Rating
200+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Some users wish for a larger pump bottle option

⚖️ Pros & Cons

✅ Praised

  • Extremely gentle - won't dry out or irritate skin
  • Perfect for use alongside acne treatments
  • 96% natural origin, 98% biodegradable
  • Clinically proven 86% sebum reduction
  • Non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
  • Creamy foam that doesn't sting eyes
  • French pharmacy quality at reasonable price

❌ Criticized

  • Not fungal acne safe (contains soybean oil)
  • Contains fragrance (may irritate very sensitive skin)
  • Limited availability - mainly pharmacy channels
  • Doesn't contain active exfoliants (no AHA/BHA)
  • May not be strong enough for heavy makeup removal
  • Bottle design could be improved (some prefer pump)

💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)

85% Match
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Gel Cleanser
$18.99 Similar Price

Also French pharmacy, contains zinc PCA for oil control. Gel texture vs cream, slightly more stripping. More widely available but less gentle on treatment-sensitized skin.

80% Match
Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel
$16.00 Budget Pick

Another French pharmacy option with zinc gluconate. Gel texture, contains silybum marianum. Slightly more drying, stronger fragrance. Good for oily skin that isn't sensitized.

70% Match
Bioderma Sébium Gel Moussant
$14.90 Budget Pick

French pharmacy cleanser for oily skin. Patented Fluidactiv complex. More foaming action, may be slightly more stripping. Fragrance-free option available.

🔄 Comparison with Competitors

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel

$18.99
Key Active Zinc PCA, Thermal Spring Water
Texture Foaming gel
Best For Daily oily skin cleansing
Natural Origin Not specified
Fungal Acne Safe No

Avène Cleanance Gel

$16.00
Key Active Zinc Gluconate, Monolaurin, Silymarin
Texture Foaming gel
Best For Oily, blemish-prone skin
Natural Origin Biodegradable formula
Fungal Acne Safe No (contains polysorbate)

Bioderma Sébium Gel

$14.90
Key Active Fluidactiv Complex, Zinc Gluconate
Texture Foaming gel
Best For Combination to oily skin
Natural Origin Not specified
Fungal Acne Safe Varies by formulation

📦 Storage & Shelf Life

📅
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

🏠
Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep away from moisture.

📦
Packaging

200ml plastic bottle with flip-top cap. Some versions have pump dispenser.

✈️
Travel Friendly

No, 200ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Decant for travel or purchase travel size if available.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Boréade CL Cleansing Cream is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The key ingredients (zinc gluconate, glycerin, bisabolol) are all pregnancy-safe when used topically. However, it does contain fragrance, so consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Phospholipids (often derived from soybean), and Cetearyl Alcohol which some research shows can promote Malassezia growth. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Cleanser or specific fungal-acne-safe products.

Yes! Boréade CL is specifically designed to be used alongside dermatological acne treatments including retinoids, isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, and antibiotics. Its gentle, non-stripping formula supports skin that may be sensitized by these treatments. It does not contain any actives that would conflict with your treatment products.

Boréade CL is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's particularly excellent for those whose skin has been sensitized by acne treatments. While it can work for normal skin, it may not provide enough hydration for dry skin types. The formula is designed to regulate sebum without over-drying.

You'll notice immediate comfort and cleanliness after first use. Within 1-2 weeks, most users report reduced oiliness and shine. Clinical studies showed 86% reduction in seborrhea after consistent use. For clearer skin and fewer breakouts, expect to see improvements within 2-6 months of daily use.

Boréade CL should be the first step in both your morning and evening skincare routines. Apply to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner, treatment products (serums, retinoids), moisturizer, and SPF (morning only). It's gentle enough for twice-daily use.

No, Boréade CL is tested and certified non-comedogenic by ACM Laboratoire. This means it has been clinically tested to not promote the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and will not clog pores. The comedogenic rating is approximately 1/5, which is considered very low risk.

Boréade CL has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months, as indicated by the "12M" symbol on the packaging. Before opening, ACM products have a proven stability of over 30 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity.

★★★★☆
4.5 out of 5

Verdict: ACM Boréade CL Cleansing Cream is an excellent choice for those with oily, acne-prone skin who need a gentle yet effective cleanser, especially when using prescription acne treatments. The French pharmacy formulation with 96% natural ingredients, clinically-proven S.M.A. Complex, and exceptional tolerance makes it stand out. Points deducted only for not being fungal acne safe and containing fragrance. If you're looking for a cleanser that respects sensitized skin while controlling sebum and preventing blemishes, this is a dermatologist-backed winner.

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.

Awesome, I Understand!

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

Awesome, I Understand!

Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Citric Acid Tocopherol
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Citric Acid Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Citric Acid Glycerin Tocopherol
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!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
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
62% 6% 31%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 29 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Bisabolol
Masking, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
1 B
Butyl Avocadate
Skin Conditioning
1 B
Capryloyl Glycine
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS