Cleanance Hydra Soothing Cream
Cleanance Hydra Soothing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, nourishing cream by Avène specifically formulated to restore comfort and hydration to skin dried out and irritated by acne treatments such as isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, and topical retinoids. Powered by Glycoleol, Dextran Sulfate, and Avène Thermal Spring Water to soothe, replenish, and protect the compromised skin barrier.
Barrier Repair
Glycoleol (essential fatty acid complex) stimulates natural lipid production and restores the hydrolipidic film damaged by acne treatments.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair
Glycoleol (essential fatty acid complex) stimulates natural lipid production and restores the hydrolipidic film damaged by acne treatments.
Intense Soothing
Sodium Dextran Sulfate calms irritation and visibly reduces redness caused by harsh acne medications like isotretinoin.
Thermal Spring Water
Avène Thermal Spring Water, backed by over 150 clinical studies, provides long-lasting soothing and softening benefits for sensitive skin.
Clinically Proven Results
In a clinical study of 44 patients on acne treatments, visible reduction in swelling, flaking, and dryness was achieved in just 7 days.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Avène confirms this product can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Palmitate, Glyceryl Linoleate, and Soybean Oil — fatty acid esters and oils that can feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have fungal acne.
Labeled non-comedogenic by the brand. Safflower seed oil is high in linoleic acid (comedogenic rating 0), and key emollients score low. Some users with very oily skin may find it slightly rich.
Specifically formulated as adjunctive care for use alongside isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, and adapalene. Does not contain AHA or BHA actives.
While formulated for sensitive skin, this product does contain parfum. Some reviewers note a noticeable floral scent. Patch test if you are highly fragrance-sensitive.
Can be layered over retinol, tretinoin, or vitamin C serums as a soothing barrier cream. Ideal for buffering irritating actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvène Thermal Spring WaterProven
The star base of all Avène products. This naturally sourced spring water from southern France is rich in silicates and trace elements, clinically shown to soothe, soften, and calm irritated skin.
- Clinical Evidence: Backed by over 150 published studies demonstrating anti-irritant and soothing properties
- Mineral Profile: Low mineral content with a balanced Ca/Mg ratio and silicates for anti-inflammatory action
Glycoleol (Essential Fatty Acid Complex)Proven
A nourishing blend of Safflower Seed Oil, Glyceryl Linoleate, Glyceryl Linolenate, and Soybean Oil that acts as a lipid precursor. This complex stimulates natural lipid production to combat dryness and restore the skin barrier.
- Safflower Seed Oil: 70% linoleic acid — a high-linoleic oil that supports barrier repair without clogging pores
- Glyceryl Linoleate & Linolenate: Essential fatty acid derivatives that replenish the hydrolipidic film
- Mechanism: Provides time-released hydration by boosting the skin's own lipid synthesis
Sodium Dextran SulfateProven
The key soothing active in this formula. This polysaccharide helps calm skin that has been agitated and inflamed by harsh acne medications, reducing visible redness and irritation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce visible swelling and redness on treatment-compromised skin
- Barrier support: Reinforces the skin's natural moisture barrier while moisturizing
Glycerin ~5%Proven
A skin-identical humectant naturally present in the skin. Draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain the lipid barrier in a healthy liquid-crystal state. Found to be more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant in a 2016 study.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — completely non-pore-clogging
- Research: Effective at concentrations as low as 3%, with greater benefits at higher percentages for dry skin
DimethiconeProven
A widely used silicone that creates a protective, breathable barrier on the skin surface. Gives a silky-smooth finish, fills in fine lines, and locks in hydration without clogging pores.
- Occlusive: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) to keep moisture locked in
- Non-comedogenic: Safe for acne-prone skin at typical cosmetic concentrations
Bisabolol / Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Promising
Bisabolol is a chamomile-derived anti-inflammatory that calms redness. Tocopherol and Tocopheryl Acetate provide antioxidant protection, shielding damaged skin from environmental stress while promoting healing.
- Bisabolol: Naturally derived soothing agent with anti-irritant properties
- Vitamin E: Proven antioxidant that supports skin repair and reduces oxidative damage
24 ingredients
Avene Thermal Spring Water (Avene Aqua), Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, PEG-12, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Linoleate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Benzoic Acid, Fragrance (Parfum), Glyceryl Linolenate, Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Palmitate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Sodium Dextran Sulfate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Xanthan Gum.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and PM as your moisturizer step. Apply after acne treatments (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide) to buffer irritation. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser (such as Avène Cleanance HYDRA Cleansing Cream) and pat skin dry.
Apply Treatments
If using prescription acne medications (isotretinoin users skip this step — oral medication), apply topical retinoid or benzoyl peroxide and let absorb.
Apply Cleanance HYDRA
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto fingertips and gently massage onto the face, concentrating on dry areas (cheeks, forehead, chin).
Sunscreen (AM Only)
In the morning, wait 1–2 minutes for cream to absorb, then apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen on top.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin is dried out and irritated from isotretinoin (Accutane)
- You use topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or adapalene
- You need a moisturizer that won't interfere with acne treatment
- You have sensitive, reactive skin prone to redness
- You want a dermatologist-recommended French pharmacy product
- Your skin barrier feels compromised, tight, or flaky
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — contains triggering esters and oils
- You are very sensitive to fragrance — this product contains parfum
- You have very oily skin and prefer a gel or water-based texture
- You want a larger size for body use — only 40ml
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free moisturizer
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis product was specifically designed for dry, treatment-compromised skin. Rich lipid-replenishing formula provides intense nourishment and lasting comfort.
Hypoallergenic and tested on sensitive skin. Avène Thermal Spring Water provides immediate soothing. Note: contains parfum, so patch test if extremely reactive.
Works well on dry areas (cheeks, forehead). May feel slightly rich on the T-zone if you are not on drying acne medications. Apply sparingly on oilier zones.
May feel too rich for naturally oily skin not on drying treatments. However, if your oily skin is dehydrated by medication, it provides excellent relief.
Non-comedogenic and specifically designed to accompany acne treatment. Not suitable for fungal acne due to oleic esters, but great for standard acne on drying meds.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels less tight and dry after the first few applications. Soothing sensation from Avène Thermal Spring Water is noticeable right away.
85% noticed immediate reliefReduced Flaking & Dryness
Clinically shown to reduce visible swelling, flaking, and dryness within 7 days. Skin begins to feel suppler and less reactive to acne treatments.
78% reported reduced flakingBarrier Restoration
The hydrolipidic film is progressively rebuilt. Redness diminishes noticeably. Skin tolerance to acne medications improves, making treatment adherence easier.
72% saw visible redness reductionLong-Term Skin Health
With consistent use alongside acne treatment, skin remains comfortable and hydrated. Many users report being able to complete their full course of medication without interruption due to dryness.
90% completed acne treatment courseRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent at restoring moisture during isotretinoin and retinoid treatments
- Clinically proven to reduce dryness, flaking, and redness in 7 days
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formula
- Dermatologist recommended for acne treatment support
- Spreads easily and absorbs relatively quickly despite rich texture
- Free from parabens, harsh alcohols, and mineral oil
- Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (parfum) — some find the floral scent too strong
- Small tube (40ml) at a premium price ($28)
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acid esters and oils
- Can feel slightly greasy on naturally oily skin
- Scent does not fully dissipate for fragrance-sensitive users
- Some formulation variations between regions (EU vs US version)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A fragrance-free, paraben-free, dye-free moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin. Lacks the Avène Thermal Spring Water and Dextran Sulfate actives, but provides excellent barrier repair at nearly half the price. Also comes in a much larger size (16 oz).
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier repair. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. A thicker texture than Cleanance HYDRA but lacks the targeted soothing actives for acne-treatment skin. Much better value per ml.
The closest direct competitor — also a French pharmacy cream designed for skin dried by acne treatments. Contains niacinamide, ceramides, and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water. Fragrance-free formula is a key advantage for sensitive users.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep below 25°C / 77°F for optimal stability.
Squeeze tube with screw cap — hygienic and easy to control dispensing. Minimizes air exposure to preserve formula integrity.
Yes — 40ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in any travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. According to Avène, this product is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients of concern during pregnancy. All active ingredients (Glycoleol, Dextran Sulfate, Thermal Spring Water) are considered safe. However, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
No. This product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Palmitate, Glyceryl Linoleate, Glyceryl Linolenate, Soybean Oil, and Safflower Seed Oil. If you have diagnosed or suspected fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis), look for alternatives such as a simple gel moisturizer without fatty acid esters or plant oils.
Absolutely — that is exactly what this product is designed for. It is formulated as adjunctive care to be used alongside drying acne treatments including topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene), benzoyl peroxide, and oral isotretinoin. You can also use it over vitamin C serums. It does not contain any AHA or BHA, so there is no risk of over-exfoliation. Apply your active treatment first, let it absorb, then layer this cream on top for soothing and hydration.
This cream is best suited for dry to normal skin that has been compromised by acne treatments. It excels on sensitive, treatment-irritated skin experiencing tightness, flaking, and redness. Combination skin types on drying medications will also benefit. Those with naturally very oily skin (without drying treatments) may find it too rich. It is ideal for anyone on isotretinoin, tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, or adapalene who needs extra moisture and comfort.
Most users notice immediate comfort and reduced tightness from the first application. In Avène's clinical study of 44 patients on acne treatments, visible reduction in swelling, flaking, and dryness was demonstrated within 7 days of twice-daily use. Full barrier restoration and significant redness reduction typically occur over 2–4 weeks of consistent use.
Apply this cream as your moisturizer step, both morning and evening. The order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Active Treatment (retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, etc.) → Cleanance HYDRA Soothing Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). If you are on oral isotretinoin, simply use it after cleansing as your moisturizer since there is no topical treatment to apply first.
No — this product is labeled non-comedogenic by Avène and has a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The main oil (Safflower Seed Oil) is high in linoleic acid with a comedogenic rating of 0. Other emollients like Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Dimethicone are also well-tolerated by acne-prone skin. Multiple reviewers confirm it does not cause breakouts even during active acne treatment.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 40ml tube typically lasts approximately 60 days (about 2 months) with twice-daily use on the face, as stated by Avène. Store it in a cool, dry place below 25°C / 77°F and always replace the cap after use to maintain formula stability.
Verdict: Avène Cleanance HYDRA Soothing Cream is a highly effective, clinically proven moisturizer purpose-built for skin suffering from the drying side effects of acne treatments. It delivers on its promise of restoring comfort, reducing flaking, and calming redness — often within the first week. The rich-yet-absorbable texture and Glycoleol complex make it a standout for isotretinoin and retinoid users. However, the inclusion of fragrance, the small 40ml tube at a premium price, and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe prevent it from being a perfect 5. If you are on a drying acne regimen and need serious barrier repair, this French pharmacy classic remains one of the best options available — just be aware of the scent if you are highly fragrance-sensitive.
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 skin’s 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 «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.
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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sucrose Stearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Myreth-3 Myristate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant
|
|