Cicapair Foaming Cleanser
Cicapair Foaming Cleanser
Product Description
A gentle, pH-friendly cream-to-foam cleanser powered by Centella Asiatica (Cica) Complex with four key centelloids. Formulated with 23% glycerin, it lifts away dirt, makeup, and impurities without stripping or drying the skin barrier. Designed for sensitive, redness-prone, and irritated skin types.
โจ Texture & Feel
Centella Asiatica Cica Complex
Contains all four centelloids (Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid) plus Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract to soothe and calm irritated, redness-prone skin.
23% Glycerin for Deep Hydration
High concentration of moisturizing glycerin ensures skin feels hydrated and comfortable after cleansing, not tight or stripped.
Sulfate-Free Gentle Surfactants
Uses Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Coco-Betaine instead of harsh sulfates, creating a rich, dense foam that cleanses effectively without compromising the skin barrier.
PHA (Gluconolactone) Exfoliation
Contains Gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation to improve texture without causing irritation, even on sensitive skin.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your physician.
Contains Streptococcus Thermophilus Ferment (a ferment) and Glyceryl Stearate (fatty acid ester) which may feed malassezia. However, as a rinse-off product, risk is lower than leave-on products. Patch test recommended.
No heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. Glyceryl Stearate and Stearyl Alcohol have low comedogenic ratings (1-2). As a wash-off product, pore-clogging risk is minimal.
Dermatologist tested, free from synthetic fragrance, sulfates, parabens, and drying alcohol. pH-balanced formula maintains the acid mantle.
Gentle, low-pH formula works well as a cleanser alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA treatments in your routine without over-stripping.
If you have a soy allergy, be aware this formula contains Glycine Soja (Soybean) Peptide. While the risk is minimal for topical application on intact skin, those with severe allergies should consult a dermatologist first.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ฟ Centella Asiatica Complex Full Spectrum Proven
The star ingredient of the Cicapair line. This cleanser includes the complete Centella Asiatica Complex: Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract plus all four isolated centelloids โ Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassic Acid โ for comprehensive soothing and skin barrier support.
- Wound Healing: Centella asiatica has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat wounds, burns, and inflammatory skin conditions.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Asiaticoside and madecassoside are shown to inhibit inflammatory mediators, reducing redness and irritation.
- Collagen Synthesis: Asiatic acid and madecassic acid stimulate type I collagen synthesis, supporting barrier repair and skin recovery.
๐ง Glycerin 23% Proven
A powerful humectant present at a generous 23% concentration. Glycerin draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration during and after cleansing, preventing that tight, stripped feeling common with foam cleansers.
- Hydration: One of the most well-studied humectants in skincare, proven to attract and retain water in the skin.
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Safety Profile: Rated as non-comedogenic (0) and non-irritating. Safe for all skin types including sensitive.
๐งช Gluconolactone (PHA) Low % Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that offers gentle chemical exfoliation. Unlike AHAs and BHAs, PHAs have larger molecular structures, resulting in slower skin penetration and less irritation โ ideal for sensitive skin.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells to improve skin texture and brightness without causing stinging or peeling.
- Antioxidant Properties: Gluconolactone also functions as an antioxidant, providing protection against environmental stressors.
- Humectant Bonus: Unlike most exfoliants, PHAs also draw moisture into the skin due to their multiple hydroxyl groups.
๐งฌ Glycine Soja (Soybean) Peptide Low % Promising
A soybean-derived peptide that provides anti-aging and brightening benefits. Peptides are small chains of amino acids that signal skin cells to perform specific functions like collagen production and repair.
- Anti-Aging: Soy peptides have been shown to support skin firmness and elasticity through collagen stimulation.
- Brightening: May help inhibit melanin transfer, contributing to a more even skin tone over time.
๐ซง Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate High % Proven
The primary surfactant in this formula. Derived from coconut oil, this ultra-gentle cleansing agent creates a rich, creamy foam while being one of the mildest surfactants available. Studies show it has minimal impact on the skin barrier compared to sulfates.
- Mildness: Dermatology research describes SCI as having "defined a new dimension in mildness" among cleansing agents.
- Biodegradable: Derived from coconut, it is biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
- Foam Quality: Produces a dense, satisfying foam without the harsh stripping of SLS/SLES.
33 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Betaine, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Caprylyl Glycol, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Streptococcus Thermophilus Ferment, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Peptide, Butylene Glycol, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Sodium Chloride, Coco-Glucoside, Citric Acid, Dextrin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Maltodextrin, Disodium EDTA, Gluconolactone, Madecassoside, Blue 1 (CI 42090), Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (AM & PM). In the morning, it can be used as your only cleanser. At night, follow an oil cleanser or cleansing balm to remove sunscreen and makeup first.
๐ How to Use
Dampen Your Face
Wet your face with lukewarm water. If wearing makeup or sunscreen, use an oil cleanser or cleansing balm first as a first cleanse.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto damp hands. Gently rub between palms to create a rich, creamy foam. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face using gentle, circular motions for 30โ60 seconds. Avoid the delicate eye area. Use rolling motions to reduce friction on sensitive skin.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, redness-prone, or easily irritated skin
- You want a gentle cleanser that doesn't leave skin feeling tight or dry
- You're looking for a sulfate-free foam cleanser with soothing ingredients
- You use active ingredients (retinol, AHA/BHA) and need a non-stripping cleanser
- You have eczema, rosacea, or a compromised skin barrier
- You prefer a cream-to-foam texture with rich, satisfying lather
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) โ ferment and fatty ester ingredients may be triggers
- You need a heavy-duty cleanser for removing waterproof or stage makeup
- You prefer gel or oil-based cleanser textures over foaming formulas
- You have a severe soy allergy (contains Soybean Peptide)
- You want a larger product size for better value โ 100ml may run out quickly
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Specifically designed for sensitive skin. Sulfate-free, fragrance-free, dermatologist tested. The Cica Complex actively soothes irritation and redness.
23% glycerin delivers exceptional hydration during cleansing. Users consistently report no tightness or dryness after rinsing.
Effectively cleanses oily zones without over-drying drier areas. Balanced formula works well across different face zones.
Cleanses well but the hydrating formula may feel insufficiently cleansing for very oily skin. Best used as a second cleanser after an oil cleanser.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and non-irritating formula. PHA provides gentle exfoliation. Caution if fungal acne is a concern due to ferment ingredient.
๐ Results Timeline
Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, hydrated, and soft immediately after first use. No tightness, dryness, or irritation. Clinically shown to cleanse without stripping skin after just one use.
95% noticed clean, hydrated skinReduced Irritation & Redness
Consistent use of the Cica Complex begins to calm visible redness and reduce daily skin irritation. Skin feels more comfortable and less reactive to environmental triggers.
78% noticed calmer skinImproved Texture & Barrier Strength
PHA exfoliation gently refines skin texture. The skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient. Skin appears smoother, brighter, and more even-toned.
70% noticed smoother textureLong-Term Barrier Health
Ongoing daily use maintains a healthy, balanced skin barrier. Skin is less reactive overall, better prepared for active treatments, and consistently clear and comfortable.
85% would repurchaseโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Extremely gentle โ doesn't irritate even eczema-prone or rosacea skin
- Leaves skin feeling clean but hydrated, never tight or stripped
- Rich, satisfying cream-to-foam lather from sulfate-free surfactants
- No synthetic fragrance โ suitable for fragrance-sensitive users
- Effectively removes sunscreen and light makeup as a second cleanser
- A little goes a long way โ pea-sized amount is sufficient
- Visibly calms redness over time with consistent use
- Dermatologist recommended for sensitive skin types
โ Criticized
- 100ml tube is small and may not last long for twice-daily use
- Price per ml is higher than many drugstore and K-beauty alternatives
- Mild ferment/herbal scent may be off-putting for scent-sensitive users
- Not strong enough alone to remove heavy or waterproof makeup
- Contains ferment ingredient that may trigger fungal acne in some users
- Some users reported recent reformulations changed texture
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same Centella Asiatica complex with similar gentle surfactants (SCI base). Larger size (150ml) at half the price. Slightly different texture โ lighter, more airy foam. Contains eucalyptus oil (not fragrance-free).
Centella-focused foaming cleanser with 10,000ppm Centella extract. Comes in a larger 125ml pump bottle. Lighter foam texture, contains some different surfactants. No PHA or soybean peptide.
Gel-to-foam formula with 5D Cica Complex and ceramides for extra barrier support. Larger 200ml size. Different texture (gel vs cream-to-foam). More hydrating, less foamy.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Foaming Cleanser
$25.00COSRX Pure Fit Cica Cleanser
$12.00Torriden Balanceful Cica Cleansing Gel
$14.00La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
$16.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses to prevent the product from drying out.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic design minimizes air exposure and contamination.
Yes โ 100ml is under the 3.4oz TSA carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in a toiletry bag.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. This cleanser does not contain any ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding โ no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or high-dose essential oils. The formula uses only gentle, pregnancy-compatible surfactants, glycerin, and the Centella Asiatica complex, which is considered safe for topical use. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The formula contains Streptococcus Thermophilus Ferment (a ferment that may feed malassezia yeast) and Glyceryl Stearate (a fatty acid ester). However, because this is a rinse-off product that stays on skin for under 60 seconds, the risk of triggering fungal acne is significantly lower than with leave-on products. If you are highly prone to fungal acne, consider the Torriden Balanceful Cica Cleansing Gel as a malassezia-safe alternative.
Absolutely. This cleanser is an ideal companion for active ingredients. Its gentle, sulfate-free formula and pH-balanced formulation won't strip or sensitize the skin before applying potent actives. In fact, dermatologists often recommend gentle, non-irritating cleansers like this one when using retinol or chemical exfoliants to minimize the risk of over-irritation. Simply cleanse, pat dry, then apply your actives followed by moisturizer.
This cleanser is best suited for sensitive, dry, combination, and normal skin types. It excels for anyone with redness-prone, irritated, or eczema-prone skin thanks to the Centella Asiatica complex. It also works well for those using active ingredients who need a gentle cleanser that won't compromise the skin barrier. Those with very oily skin may prefer a slightly more thorough cleanser or should use this as a second cleanser after an oil cleanse.
Immediate results include clean, hydrated, comfortable skin from the very first use. Within 1โ2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, many users notice calmer, less reactive skin and reduced visible redness. By week 3โ4, the PHA exfoliation helps smooth skin texture and brighten the complexion. Long-term use (2+ months) builds a stronger, more resilient skin barrier.
This is a water-based foaming cleanser and goes in the cleansing step of your routine. In the morning, use it as your sole cleanser. In the evening, use it as your second cleanser after an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm (double-cleanse method). After cleansing, follow with toner, essence/serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It does not contain heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. The potentially comedogenic ingredients (Glyceryl Stearate rated 1โ2, Stearyl Alcohol rated 2) are present in a rinse-off formula, meaning they spend minimal time on the skin. For the vast majority of users, this product will not clog pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 100ml tube typically lasts 2โ3 months with twice-daily use, as a pea-sized amount is sufficient per wash. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. If the texture, scent, or color changes noticeably, discontinue use even if within the 12-month window.
Verdict: The Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Foaming Cleanser is one of the best gentle foam cleansers available for sensitive and redness-prone skin. Its full-spectrum Cica Complex, generous 23% glycerin content, and sulfate-free surfactant system deliver an impressively soothing cleanse that leaves skin hydrated rather than stripped. The inclusion of PHA and soybean peptide adds value beyond simple cleansing. The main drawbacks are its small 100ml size for the premium price point and the presence of a ferment ingredient that makes it not fully fungal-acne-safe. If budget is a concern, the COSRX Pure Fit Cica Cleanser offers similar performance at a fraction of the cost โ but for those who want the complete Cicapair experience with proven Dr. Jart+ formulation quality, this cleanser is an excellent choice.
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 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Foam Boosting, Masking, Opacifying, Refatting, Viscosity Controlling
|
|

