Clarifying Cleansing Powder
Clarifying Cleansing Powder
Product Description
JUNO & Co Clarifying Cleansing Powder is a water-activated, powder-to-foam exfoliating face wash built on just 10 ingredients. Antioxidant-rich rice lees (sake kasu) extract, papaya-derived papain enzymes and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid work together to gently dissolve dead skin cells and daily buildup while keeping skin hydrated β making it an ideal, fragrance-free second-cleanse step for oily, combination and acne-prone skin.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Enzyme Exfoliation
Papain (papaya enzyme) digests keratin in dead skin cells for a smoother surface β no harsh grit or scrubbing.
Hydrating Cleanse
Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid plus diglycerin keep skin comfortable and supple instead of tight and stripped.
Rice Lees (Sake Kasu)
Upcycled, antioxidant-rich rice ferment helps soften skin and support a healthy moisture barrier.
Powder-to-Foam
A water-free powder activates into a soft, creamy lather β staying fresh in the bottle and travel-friendly.
Minimalist 10-Ingredient Formula
No fragrance, no sulfate detergents, no fillers β just 10 simple, purposeful ingredients.
Sustainably Made
Upcycled rice byproduct, microplastic-free formula, recyclable PET/PP packaging and an FSC paper carton.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone. As a gentle rinse-off enzyme cleanser it is generally considered low-risk β always confirm with your doctor.
No problematic oils, esters, fatty acids or polysorbates. The rinse-off format and ingredient list make it suitable for malassezia-prone skin.
Very low pore-clogging potential (rating ~1/5). A good choice for blemish- and breakout-prone skin.
Papaya enzyme can rarely cause irritation, especially for those with a papaya or latex allergy. Patch test before first use.
This is a cleanser that rinses off before treatment steps, so it pairs well with most serums. Avoid stacking with another exfoliant in the same wash.
Fragrance-free with mild amino-acid and isethionate surfactants instead of harsh sulfates β gentle enough for regular use.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π½ Zea Mays (Corn) Starch #1 INCI Promising
A corn-derived, floury powder that forms the base of the formula. It improves slip and skin feel, absorbs excess oil for a soft, non-greasy finish, and helps the powder spread evenly.
- Function: Absorbent and bulking agent that gives the powder its smooth, mattifying glide.
- Source: Renewable, plant-derived corn starch.
π₯₯ Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate #2 INCI Proven
A coconut-derived cleansing agent (SCI) that creates a rich, creamy foam while being notably gentle on the skin barrier β the same mild surfactant used in "syndet" (soap-free) cleansing bars.
- Source: Dr. Leslie Baumann's Cosmetic Dermatology notes SCI set a new standard for mildness in cleansing bars.
- Benefit: Readily biodegradable and far less stripping than SLS/SLES sulfates.
π± Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate #3 INCI Proven
A mild, amino-acid-based surfactant with great foaming properties. It is gentle enough to be used on sensitive and even baby skin, complementing SCI for a soft, low-irritation lather.
- Function: Secondary cleansing agent that boosts foam without harshness.
- Benefit: Helps maintain a comfortable skin pH and feel after rinsing.
πΆ Oryza Sativa (Rice) Lees Extract #5 INCI Promising
The star ingredient β upcycled rice lees (sake kasu) extract derived from rice bran left over from sake production. It is rich in antioxidants that hydrate, soften and help strengthen the skin's barrier.
- Source: Upcycled byproduct of Japanese sake brewing, reducing waste.
- Benefit: Antioxidant support associated with brighter, more even-looking skin.
π Papain #8 INCI Proven
A proteolytic enzyme from papaya that breaks down keratin β the protein holding dead skin cells together β for gentle chemical exfoliation that reveals smoother, brighter skin instantly.
- Mechanism: Digests surface dead-cell buildup without abrasive scrubbing.
- Benefit: Often gentler than physical scrubs, suitable for sensitive skin types.
π Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid #9 INCI Proven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that acts as a humectant, drawing in moisture so skin feels hydrated and comfortable rather than tight after cleansing.
- Function: Offsets the drying tendency of cleansing for a non-stripped finish.
- Benefit: A key reason this exfoliating wash leaves skin supple, not raw.
π Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder #10 INCI Promising
Finely milled rice powder sourced from Japanese sake production that provides a very mild physical polish, working alongside papain to revitalize and smooth the skin's surface.
- Function: Gentle, finely-milled physical exfoliant that does not scratch skin.
- Benefit: Adds soft tactile polishing to the enzyme exfoliation.
10 ingredients
Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Diglycerin, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Lees Extract, Cellulose Gum, Maltodextrin, Papain, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder.
Exact percentages are not disclosed by the brand; the "#" marks above indicate each highlighted active's position on the INCI list, which is ordered by descending concentration.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your second cleanse after an oil cleanser or balm, AM and PM or as needed. Because it gently exfoliates, always finish your morning routine with SPF.
π How to Use
Shake & Dispense
Shake the bottle, then dispense about half a teaspoon of powder into wet hands.
Foam Up
Add a little water and rub your palms together until a light, creamy foam forms.
Massage
Gently massage the foam over damp skin for 30β60 seconds, avoiding the eye area.
Rinse
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry. Re-secure the cap to keep the powder dry.
Follow Up
Continue with toner, serum and moisturizer β and SPF in the morning.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want gentle daily enzyme exfoliation without harsh grit
- You prefer minimalist, fragrance-free formulas
- You double-cleanse and want a non-stripping second step
- You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin
- You want a travel-friendly, water-free cleanser
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin needing a creamy, non-foaming cleanser
- You have a known papaya or latex allergy
- You want a one-step makeup remover (use a balm/oil first)
- You dislike the feel of foaming cleansers
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Absorbs excess oil and foams away buildup without leaving residue or a greasy film.
Balances oily and drier zones with gentle, customizable daily exfoliation.
Fungal-acne safe and non-comedogenic; ideal as a clarifying second cleanse.
Fragrance-free and mild, but the papain enzyme means a patch test is wise for reactive skin.
Hyaluronic acid helps, but some find it drying with daily use β limit to a few times a week and follow with a rich moisturizer.
π Results Timeline
Instantly Smoother & Brighter
Enzyme exfoliation lifts dead-cell buildup right away, leaving skin soft, clarified and clean without a tight feeling.
~80% noticedRefined Texture
With regular use, rough patches soften and makeup applies more evenly over a smoother surface.
~65% noticedMore Even, Clearer Tone
Consistent gentle exfoliation paired with antioxidant rice lees supports a more radiant, even-looking complexion.
~50% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Gentle yet effective enzyme + mild physical exfoliation
- Hydrating β cleanses without stripping or tightness
- Minimalist 10-ingredient, fragrance-free formula
- Affordable ($18) and long-lasting β a little goes far
- Fungal-acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Sustainable, upcycled rice ingredient and recyclable packaging
β Criticized
- Can be drying for very dry skin with frequent use
- Powder format can be messy to dispense
- Papain may not suit papaya/latex-allergic users
- Faint natural scent some users dislike
- 50g size feels small to some buyers
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Very similar water-activated powder sharing sodium cocoyl isethionate, rice lees extract, papain and maltodextrin. Adds bromelain (pineapple) enzyme and vitamin C; slightly larger 60g size.
Another wallet-friendly powder-to-foam exfoliating cleanser. Comparable format and gentle daily exfoliation, with less emphasis on the rice-ferment/hyaluronic hydration angle.
A rice-based brightening cleanser at a very low price, but it is a traditional creamy foam rather than an activated powder and offers no enzyme exfoliation.
π Comparison with Competitors
JUNO & Co Clarifying Cleansing Powder (Featured)
$18.00Tatcha The Rice Polish
$68.00Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
$52.00Good Molecules Pineapple Exfoliating Powder
$16.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
Approximately 12 months after opening
Store at room temperature, keep the powder dry, secure the cap after use and avoid direct sunlight
Recyclable PET bottle with a PP cap (a refillable JADE-material bottle is also available), in an FSC paper carton
Yes β a water-free 50g powder, so it's TSA-friendly and spill-resistant
β Frequently Asked Questions
It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. As a gentle rinse-off enzyme cleanser with hyaluronic acid and rice lees, it is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, confirm with your healthcare provider regarding your individual situation.
Yes. The 10-ingredient formula has no problematic oils, esters, fatty acids or polysorbates that feed malassezia, and it is a rinse-off product. It is widely rated as fungal-acne safe, making it a good clarifying option for malassezia-prone skin.
Yes. Because this is a cleanser that rinses off, it generally layers well with retinol, vitamin C and other actives applied afterward. Just avoid combining it with another strong exfoliant in the same wash, and ease into frequency if your skin is also using potent acids or retinoids.
It is best for oily, combination and acne-prone skin thanks to its oil-absorbing, gently exfoliating powder format. Normal skin does well with it too. Very dry or highly reactive skin can still use it, but less frequently and always followed by a richer moisturizer.
Most people notice smoother, brighter skin immediately after the first use from enzyme exfoliation. Texture refinement typically becomes more obvious over 1β2 weeks of regular use, with more even-looking tone developing over about 4 weeks.
Use it as your second cleanse β after removing makeup and sunscreen with an oil cleanser or balm. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer and (in the morning) SPF. It can be used AM and PM or as needed.
No. With an estimated comedogenic rating of about 1/5 and no pore-clogging oils, it is considered non-comedogenic and is well suited to blemish- and breakout-prone skin.
Plan to use it within about 12 months of opening. Because it is a water-free powder it stays fresh well, but keep it dry and re-secure the cap after each use to maintain quality.
Verdict: A standout, genuinely affordable enzyme cleanser. The 10-ingredient, fragrance-free powder-to-foam formula delivers gentle daily exfoliation and hydration through papain, upcycled rice lees and hyaluronic acid β without the sting of strong acids or the premium price tag of rivals like Tatcha and Dermalogica. It shines for oily, combination and acne-prone skin; those with very dry skin should use it a few times a week and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Zea Mays Starch
Absorbent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Diglycerin
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Oryza Sativa Lees Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|