Ceramides Cleanser
Ceramides Cleanser
Product Description
A pH-balanced, moisturizing cleanser formulated with a powerful blend of 3 ceramides (EOP, AP, NP), niacinamide, and 15% glycerin to gently cleanse while supporting your skin barrier for a hydrated, balanced complexion without tightness or irritation.
โจ Texture & Feel
Triple Ceramide Complex
Contains ceramides EOP, AP, and NP to restore and strengthen the skin barrier while cleansing.
15% Glycerin Formula
High concentration of glycerin draws moisture into the skin, preventing that tight, dry feeling after washing.
Niacinamide Boost
Vitamin B3 helps calm inflammation, reduce redness, and support skin barrier repair.
Gentle Surfactants
Uses mild cleansing agents like Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate that cleanse without stripping natural oils.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains methylparaben and ethylparaben. While FDA considers them safe, some studies suggest potential endocrine concerns. Consult your healthcare provider.
Formula is free from ferments, fatty acids, and esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those with pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rated 0/5 on comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. Fragrance-free and color-free formula minimizes irritation risk.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ง Glycerin 15% Proven
A powerful humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin. At 15% concentration, it provides exceptional hydration without a greasy feel.
- Research: Studies show glycerin at 10-20% significantly improves skin hydration and barrier function
- Benefit: Prevents post-cleansing dryness and tightness
๐งฌ Ceramides (EOP, AP, NP) Proven
Three essential ceramides that mimic the natural lipids in your skin barrier. Ceramide AP (6), Ceramide NP (3), and Ceramide EOP (1) work together to strengthen the skin barrier.
- Research: Topical ceramides have been shown to improve barrier function in atopic dermatitis and dry skin
- Benefit: Helps repair and maintain the skin's moisture barrier
โจ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Proven
A multifunctional ingredient that strengthens skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and helps fade discoloration.
- Research: Niacinamide increases ceramide synthesis by up to 34% at concentrations of 2-5%
- Benefit: Calms redness, improves barrier function, and brightens skin tone
๐ฑ Phytosphingosine Promising
A sphingoid base naturally found in skin that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Research: Studies show effectiveness against acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes)
- Benefit: Supports skin's natural defense system and helps with acne-prone skin
๐ฌ Cholesterol Proven
An essential lipid that makes up about 25% of your skin's outer layer. Works synergistically with ceramides to maintain barrier function.
- Research: Optimal barrier repair requires a 3:1:1 ratio of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids
- Benefit: Stabilizes and strengthens the skin barrier
21 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Lauryl Betaine, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Niacinamide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use morning and night as your first step. Can also be used as a body wash. Use lukewarm to cool water to protect skin barrier.
๐ How to Use
Wet Your Skin
Moisten face and/or body with lukewarm to cool water. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils.
Apply & Lather
Dispense a small amount into your palms and work into a gentle lather. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Apply to skin using gentle, circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with clean, cool water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a soft towel.
Follow Up
Apply QV Ceramides Moisturising Lotion or Cream for enhanced barrier support and hydration.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin
- Your skin feels tight and dry after cleansing
- You want to repair a compromised skin barrier
- You need a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser
- You have fungal acne (malassezia)
- You want a face AND body cleanser in one
- You prefer pharmacy-grade, dermatologist-tested products
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You want to avoid all parabens (contains methylparaben, ethylparaben)
- You need a very foamy, lathering cleanser
- You want a cleanser that removes heavy makeup
- You prefer oil-based or balm cleansers
- You want exfoliating ingredients like AHA/BHA
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
15% glycerin and ceramides provide deep hydration. Leaves skin soft and moisturized, never tight or stripped.
Fragrance-free, dermatologist tested, and formulated with gentle surfactants. Ideal for reactive skin.
Cleanses effectively without over-stripping. May prefer a foaming formula, but works well for balanced cleansing.
Balances hydration without adding excess oil. Great for both dry and oily zones of the face.
Non-comedogenic (0/5) and fungal acne safe. Phytosphingosine has antimicrobial properties against P. acnes.
๐ Results Timeline
Clean, Comfortable Skin
Skin feels clean and refreshed without the tight, stripped sensation common with other cleansers.
95% noticedReduced Dryness & Irritation
Less flakiness, reduced redness, and improved overall skin comfort. Barrier begins to repair.
85% noticedStronger Skin Barrier
Improved skin texture, reduced sensitivity, and better moisture retention throughout the day.
78% noticedBalanced, Glowing Complexion
Skin appears healthier, more resilient, and better equipped to handle environmental stressors.
70% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Doesn't strip or dry out skin after cleansing
- Contains 3 ceramides plus supporting lipids
- 15% glycerin for intense hydration
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Fragrance and color free
- Works as face AND body cleanser
- Excellent value in larger sizes
- Dermatologist recommended
- Suitable for eczema-prone skin
โ Criticized
- Contains parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben)
- Doesn't foam/lather much
- May not remove heavy makeup effectively
- Limited international availability
- Pump dispenser not available on all sizes
- Some prefer a thicker, creamier texture
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 3 ceramides, plus hyaluronic acid. Paraben-free formula. More widely available internationally. Slightly different texture.
Contains ceramide NP, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water. Paraben-free. French pharmacy quality. Slightly more liquid texture.
Ultra-gentle, fragrance-free, paraben-free. No ceramides but extremely minimal, non-irritating formula. Great for very sensitive skin.
Features calming oat extract instead of ceramides. Paraben-free. Good for sensitive skin but different approach to barrier support.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
QV Ceramides Cleanser
$12.99CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
$15.99La Roche-Posay Toleriane
$15.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store below 30ยฐC in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Squeeze tube (350g) or pump bottle (1kg). Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination
350g size exceeds carry-on limits. Decant into smaller container for travel
โ Frequently Asked Questions
This product contains methylparaben and ethylparaben as preservatives. While regulatory bodies including the FDA consider short-chain parabens (methyl and ethyl) safe at cosmetic concentrations, some research suggests potential endocrine-disrupting effects. If you prefer to avoid parabens during pregnancy or breastfeeding, consider paraben-free alternatives like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Yes! QV Ceramides Cleanser is confirmed fungal acne safe. The formula is free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The surfactants used (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate) are gentle and don't promote yeast growth. This makes it an excellent choice for those with pityrosporum folliculitis.
Absolutely! QV Ceramides Cleanser is an excellent choice to pair with active treatments. Its gentle, hydrating formula with ceramides and glycerin helps counteract potential dryness and irritation from retinoids and exfoliating acids. Cleanse first, then wait for skin to dry before applying actives. The ceramides will help maintain barrier function while you use powerful treatments.
QV Ceramides Cleanser is formulated for all skin types but excels for dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, and acne-prone skin. The high glycerin content (15%) and triple ceramide complex provide exceptional hydration and barrier support. Those with oily skin may prefer it but might want a slightly more foaming formula. It's dermatologist recommended for conditions like eczema and rosacea.
You'll notice immediate comfort - no tightness or dryness after cleansing. Within 1-2 weeks, expect reduced flakiness and irritation. By 4-6 weeks of consistent use (morning and night), you should see improved barrier function and skin texture. Full benefits including resilient, balanced skin typically appear after 8+ weeks of consistent use.
QV Ceramides Cleanser is your first step in both AM and PM routines. In the morning, cleanse then follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. At night, if wearing makeup or sunscreen, you may want to double cleanse with an oil cleanser first, then follow with QV Ceramides Cleanser. It can also be used as a body wash in the shower.
No, QV Ceramides Cleanser is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. It contains no pore-clogging ingredients and is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. The product is tested and approved as non-comedogenic. Users with acne, including fungal acne, report excellent results without breakouts or increased congestion.
QV Ceramides Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal effectiveness. Store below 30ยฐC away from direct sunlight and heat. The preservative system (methylparaben and ethylparaben) keeps the product stable and safe from microbial contamination throughout this period.
Verdict: QV Ceramides Cleanser is an exceptional, dermatologist-backed cleanser that delivers on its promise of gentle yet effective cleansing while supporting the skin barrier. The combination of three ceramides, 15% glycerin, niacinamide, and phytosphingosine makes it ideal for sensitive, dry, eczema-prone, and acne-prone skin. The fungal acne-safe formula is a significant advantage. The only drawbacks are the presence of parabens (which some prefer to avoid) and limited international availability. For those seeking a hydrating, barrier-strengthening cleanser at an excellent value, this Australian pharmacy staple is highly recommended.
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 ยซpromisesยป 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|

