Clean Magic Face Wash
Clean Magic Face Wash
Product Description
Florence by Mills Clean Magic Face Wash is a dewy, creamy gel cleanser from Millie Bobby Brown's clean-beauty brand that melts away makeup, dirt, and excess oil without stripping or leaving skin tight. A gentle blend of AHAs (glycolic, lactic, mandelic, and malic acids) offers light exfoliation, while vitamin B12, panthenol, aloe, and a botanical oil-balancing complex of seaweed, ivy, lemon, and sage leave skin soft, refreshed, and balanced. It doubles as a quick makeup remover on dry skin.
โจ Texture & Feel
Dual-Purpose
Works as a daily cleanser on wet skin and as a makeup remover on dry skin โ wipe off with a tissue or cotton pad.
Oil-Balancing Blend
A botanical mix of seaweed, ivy, lemon, and sage helps keep excess oil in check so pores stay clear.
Gentle AHA Exfoliation
A low-level blend of glycolic, lactic, mandelic, and malic acids gently smooths and brightens over time.
Non-Stripping
Glycerin, panthenol, and aloe cleanse without that tight, squeaky feeling โ skin is left soft and refreshed.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Generally considered safe: it contains only low-level rinse-off AHAs and no retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Always confirm with your OB/GYN.
Not malassezia-safe. It contains cetyl alcohol, glycol stearate, glyceryl stearate, and caprylic/capric triglyceride, which can feed the yeast โ though rinse-off contact lowers the risk.
Contains naturally derived fragrance components and EU allergens (e.g. hydroxycitronellal, ylang ylang, lavender). Fragrance-sensitive users should patch test first.
As a rinse-off with minimal AHAs, it pairs fine before vitamin C, retinol, or niacinamide. Space out from strong leave-on acids to avoid over-exfoliation.
The AHA blend plus fragrance may aggravate very reactive, rosacea-, or eczema-prone skin. A barrier-focused fragrance-free cleanser may suit better.
Sulfate-free and uses mild cleansers (sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, cocamidopropyl betaine) for a low-strip, non-foaming wash.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ AHA Complex (Glycolic, Lactic, Mandelic, Malic) Low % Proven
Four alpha-hydroxy acids work together to loosen the bonds between dead surface cells, helping smooth texture and brighten tone. In a rinse-off cleanser the concentration is low and contact time short, so exfoliation is mild and beginner-friendly.
- Glycolic Acid: Smallest AHA molecule; well-researched for smoothing, brightening, and stimulating collagen.
- Lactic Acid: Gentler, larger molecule that also acts as a humectant to support hydration.
- Malic Acid: Larger, milder AHA often used to support exfoliation and balance pH.
๐งซ Mandelic Acid AHA Proven
An AHA derived from bitter almonds with a larger molecular size, so it penetrates slowly and evenly โ making it one of the gentlest acids for sensitive or beginner skin. It also has antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
- Research: Studies show mandelic acid (especially with salicylic acid) can reduce breakouts and post-acne marks with fewer side effects than stronger acids.
- Note: It is light-sensitive, which is why opaque packaging helps keep it stable.
๐งช Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) Soothing Promising
The manufactured form of vitamin B12, included here for its skin-soothing, antioxidant, and barrier-supporting properties. Topical B12 has been studied for calming irritation and atopic-dermatitis-prone skin.
- Function: Skin conditioning and antioxidant support that helps offset the mild exfoliation in the formula.
๐ง Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Humectant Proven
A well-loved humectant and skin conditioner that binds water to keep skin hydrated, reduces irritation, and supports wound healing and barrier repair โ a smart counterbalance in an exfoliating cleanser.
- Penetration: Converts to pantothenic acid in skin and is known for absorbing into deeper layers.
- Tolerance: Non-irritating and compatible with almost every other ingredient.
๐ก๏ธ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) 0.1โ1% Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution before they can cause oxidative damage. It also helps stabilize other oxidation-prone ingredients in the formula.
- Synergy: When paired with vitamin C, the photoprotective effect of both roughly doubles.
- Typical use: 0.1โ1% in most leave-on products.
๐ฟ Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract Astringent Promising
Rich in salicin, flavonoids, and polyphenols, willow bark is soothing and antioxidant. It's often marketed as a "natural BHA," but skin can't readily convert salicin to true salicylic acid, so think of it as a calming antioxidant rather than a chemical exfoliant.
- Study: An 8-week trial of a 2% willow bark cream reported improved skin microcirculation and elasticity.
- Caution: Avoid if you have a known aspirin/salicylate allergy.
๐ Oil-Balancing Botanical Blend Seaweed ยท Ivy ยท Lemon ยท Sage Promising
The signature "magic" mix the brand highlights for keeping oil in check. Fucus Vesiculosus (seaweed) is rich in antioxidants and minerals, sage is antibacterial and antioxidant, lemon peel adds vitamin C and brightening, and ivy is traditionally used as a toning botanical.
- Sage: High in ursolic acid, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound.
- Lemon peel: Contains vitamin C with antibacterial and antioxidant activity.
๐ชด Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice + Glycerin Hydrators Proven
Two of the most reliable soothing hydrators in skincare. Aloe is anti-inflammatory and moisturizing, while glycerin is a powerhouse humectant that pulls water into the skin's surface โ together they keep this cleanser from feeling drying.
- Glycerin: Naturally present in skin; works across all skin types and plays well with nearly everything.
- Aloe: Contains vitamins A, C, and E plus moisture-binding sugars.
47 ingredients
Water, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glycol Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Malic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Gallic Acid, Panthenol, Cyanocobalamin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ethylhexylglycerin, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Elettaria Cardamomum Seed Extract, Santalum Album Wood Extract, Rose Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Extract, Saponaria Officinalis Leaf/Root Extract, Salvia Officinalis Leaf Extract, Nasturtium Officinale Extract, Hedera Helix Leaf Extract, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Citrus Limon Peel Extract, Arctium Majus Root Extract, Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract, Tocopherol, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Jasminum Officinale Flower/Leaf Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Cucumis Melo Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract, Cananga Odorata Flower Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Hydroxycitronellal.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your first cleanse step morning and night, or as a quick makeup remover on dry skin. Because it contains gentle AHAs, always finish your morning routine with SPF.
๐ How to Use
As a Cleanser
Massage a small amount onto wet skin in gentle circular motions, working over the whole face.
Rinse Well
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry. The formula is creamy and non-foaming by design.
As a Makeup Remover
Apply to dry skin, massage to dissolve makeup, then wipe away with a tissue or cotton pad. For heavy or waterproof makeup, follow with a second cleanse.
Follow Up
Continue with toner, treatments, and moisturizer. In the morning, always apply sunscreen as your last step.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, non-stripping daily cleanser
- You like a 2-in-1 cleanser and light makeup remover
- You'd like mild AHA exfoliation without a dedicated acid
- You have normal, combination, or dry skin
- You prefer vegan, sulfate-free, reef-safe formulas
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You're prone to fungal acne (malassezia)
- You're sensitive to fragrance or fragrance allergens
- You wear heavy or waterproof makeup daily
- You have active rosacea or eczema flares
- You strongly prefer a high-foaming lather
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Creamy, non-stripping texture with glycerin, aloe, and panthenol leaves dry skin soft rather than tight.
The oil-balancing botanical blend and gentle hydration suit mixed zones without over-drying.
Seaweed, ivy, lemon, and sage help manage oil, though the creamy, non-foaming feel may take some getting used to.
Low comedogenic rating and gentle AHAs help, but it isn't fungal-acne safe, so malassezia-prone skin should be cautious.
Contains AHAs plus fragrance and EU allergens โ patch test first, and approach with care if your skin is very reactive.
๐ Results Timeline
Clean, Soft, Not Tight
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed and comfortable straight away, without the squeaky, stripped sensation harsher washes can leave.
90% noticedSmoother Texture
With consistent use, the gentle AHA blend helps skin feel smoother and makeup comes away more easily.
70% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Regular mild exfoliation supports a more radiant, even-looking complexion over the following weeks.
55% noticedMaintained Balance
Ongoing use helps keep oil balanced and clarity maintained as part of a consistent routine.
45% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Gentle and non-stripping โ doesn't leave skin tight
- Creamy, pleasant to use with a soft natural scent
- Doubles as a cleanser and a makeup remover
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated
- Vegan, cruelty-free, sulfate- and silicone-free
- Affordable, often around $13
โ Criticized
- Doesn't foam or lather (a preference issue)
- Can struggle with heavy or waterproof makeup
- Contains fragrance and EU allergens
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Small 100ml size for daily use
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
A creamy, ceramide-rich cleanser with a similar soft, non-stripping feel โ plus it's fragrance-free and friendlier for fungal-acne-prone skin. Trade-off: no AHA exfoliation, and it's barrier-focused rather than brightening.
A gentle daily gel cleanser with antioxidants and aloe at a similar price point. Trade-off: lighter gel texture instead of creamy, and no AHA blend, so less exfoliating.
An excellent low-cost melt-away cleanser and makeup remover with a balm-to-milk feel. Trade-off: it's purely a cleanser โ no acids, antioxidants, or oil-balancing botanicals.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Clean Magic Face Wash (Featured)
$13.00CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
~$15.00BYOMA Creamy Jelly Cleanser
~$12.99Bubble Fresh Start Gel Cleanser
$11.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed. The light-sensitive mandelic acid stays more stable in the opaque tube.
Squeeze tube
Yes โ the 100ml size meets carry-on limits, and a smaller travel size is also available.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
It's generally considered safe. The formula contains only low concentrations of AHAs in a rinse-off product, and it has no retinoids, no high-dose salicylic acid, and no hydroquinone โ the ingredients most often flagged during pregnancy. As always, confirm with your OB/GYN or midwife, since individual circumstances vary.
No. It contains cetyl alcohol, glycol stearate, glyceryl stearate, and caprylic/capric triglyceride, which the malassezia yeast can potentially feed on. Because it's a rinse-off cleanser the contact time is short, so the real-world risk is lower than a leave-on product โ but if you're actively managing fungal acne, a fully malassezia-safe cleanser is the safer choice.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser with only minimal AHAs, it generally layers well before vitamin C, retinol, or niacinamide. If you also use strong leave-on acid treatments, space them out and listen to your skin to avoid over-exfoliation, and always wear SPF during the day.
It's best for normal, combination, and dry skin thanks to its creamy, non-stripping feel, and it works well for oily skin too via its oil-balancing botanicals. It's less ideal for fungal-acne-prone, fragrance-sensitive, or actively rosacea/eczema-prone skin.
Skin should feel clean, soft, and comfortable immediately. With consistent use, many people notice smoother texture within 1โ2 weeks and a brighter, more even tone around 4โ6 weeks as the gentle AHA blend works over time.
It's your first step โ the cleanse โ used morning and night. You can also use it on dry skin as a makeup remover before your main cleanse. After cleansing, follow with toner, treatments, and moisturizer, and finish with sunscreen in the morning.
It's low risk, with an estimated comedogenic rating around 1 out of 5. The most pore-relevant ingredient is cetyl alcohol (roughly a 2), but as a rinse-off product it has minimal contact time. Most people, including acne-prone users, tolerate it well โ patch test if you have concerns.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed to help preserve the actives.
Verdict: A genuinely gentle, multitasking daily cleanser that punches above its roughly $13 price. The creamy, non-foaming texture and botanical oil-balancing blend leave skin soft and never tight, while the low-level AHA complex offers mild brightening over time. It's at its best as a first cleanse or light makeup remover โ heavy or waterproof makeup may need a follow-up double cleanse. The main caveats are that it contains fragrance and EU allergens and isn't fungal-acne safe, so fragrance-sensitive and malassezia-prone users may prefer CeraVe SA or BYOMA. For everyone else after a soft, clean-beauty everyday wash, it's an easy, affordable win.
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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Anticaking Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Suspending Agent - Nonsurfactant, Viscosity Increasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycol Stearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Opacifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|

