Cleanser 1
Cleanser 1
Product Description
DR's Secret Cleanser 1 is a premium gel-to-foam facial wash from Singapore, formulated with Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), aloe vera, jojoba oil and soothing botanicals. It whips into a rich, cushiony lather that lifts away makeup, oil and impurities without leaving skin tight β while gently brightening and refreshing the complexion with every wash.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Vitamin C Boost
Ascorbic acid adds a brightening, antioxidant edge that helps the complexion look more even over time.
Cushiony Foam
Whips into a dense, pillowy lather that traps dirt and oil while feeling comforting on the skin.
Botanical Soothing
Aloe vera, chamomile and jojoba oil work to calm, condition and refresh as you cleanse.
No Tight Feeling
Reviewers consistently note skin feels soft and clean afterwards β not squeaky, stripped or dry.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, BHA/salicylic acid or hydroquinone. As a rinse-off Vitamin C cleanser it is generally considered safe β always confirm with your doctor.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and jojoba seed oil, which may feed malassezia. Not ideal if you are actively managing fungal acne.
Parfum is listed in the INCI. Most users tolerate it well, but very reactive or fragrance-sensitive skin should patch test first.
Rated approximately 1/5 comedogenic. Jojoba is non-comedogenic and a cleanser rinses off, so clogging risk is minimal.
An effective coconut-derived foaming agent that cleanses well, but it is a stronger surfactant β very dry skin may prefer a milder wash.
Cleanser contact time is short, so the Vitamin C here complements rather than replaces a dedicated leave-on Vitamin C serum.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) <1% Proven
The signature active of Cleanser 1. Ascorbic acid is the purest form of Vitamin C β a potent antioxidant that brightens, supports collagen and helps fade the look of dark spots.
- Brightening: Helps interrupt excess melanin production, improving dullness and uneven tone.
- Antioxidant: Neutralises free radicals from UV and pollution that contribute to premature aging.
- Collagen: A required cofactor for collagen synthesis, supporting firmness and texture.
𫧠Cocamidopropyl Betaine Surfactant Proven
A mild, coconut-derived surfactant that lifts away dirt and oil while building a creamy, stable foam. It is one of the gentler cleansing agents in modern skincare.
- Gentle cleansing: Effective at removing impurities with less stripping than harsh sulfates.
- Allergen myth: A 2012 study found pure cocamidopropyl betaine did not trigger the reactions once attributed to it β impurities were the culprit.
π§ Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1% Proven
A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that hydrates and soothes. It penetrates well and converts to pantothenic acid in the skin.
- Hydration: Binds and holds water like a mini hyaluronic acid, helping offset any cleansing dryness.
- Soothing & repair: Supports barrier comfort and is widely used to aid wound and skin healing.
π Glycerin Humectant Proven
A naturally occurring humectant that draws moisture into the skin. It is one of the most studied and reliable hydrators in cosmetics.
- Effective humectant: A 2016 study found glycerin outperformed AHAs and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- Barrier support: Helps keep skin hydrated and the moisture barrier comfortable after washing.
π± Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Extract Promising
Aloe vera juice adds soothing, anti-inflammatory and lightly moisturising properties, helping balance out the surfactants in the wash.
- Soothing: Long used to calm irritation and redness; rich in vitamins A, C and E.
- Antioxidant support: Contains polysaccharides and minerals that help bind moisture to skin.
πͺ΅ Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Jojoba) Trace Promising
Jojoba oil closely mimics the skin's own sebum, adding a conditioning, non-comedogenic touch that keeps the cleanser from feeling stripping.
- Sebum-like: Structurally similar to human sebum, making it well tolerated even by oily skin.
- Conditioning: Delivers fatty acids and Vitamin E for softness and antioxidant protection.
πΌ Chamomilla Recutita Extract (Chamomile) Extract Promising
Chamomile flower extract is rich in antioxidants and soothing compounds like bisabolol, helping reduce the look of redness and irritation.
- Calming: Anti-inflammatory actives help comfort sensitive, reactive skin.
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralise free radicals that contribute to dullness and aging.
π₯₯ Cocamide DEA Surfactant Proven
A coconut-derived agent that creates rich foam and thickens the formula. It cleanses effectively and gives Cleanser 1 its signature dense lather.
- Foaming & cleansing: Removes dirt and oil while stabilising the formula's texture.
- Stronger surfactant: Considered safe at regulated levels, though gentler than older sulfate-heavy washes.
𧴠TEA-Lauryl Sulfate Cleansing base Proven
A primary cleansing surfactant that provides the foaming and dirt-lifting power of the wash, buffered by the formula's gentler co-surfactants and conditioners.
- Deep cleansing: Effectively removes makeup, sunscreen and excess oil.
- Balanced formula: Paired with betaine, glycerin and panthenol to soften its effect on the skin.
22 ingredients
Water, Tea-Lauryl Sulfate, Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer, Cocamide DEA, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Methyl Gluceth-20, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Maltodextrin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Chamomilla Recutita Extract, Hedera Helix Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, CI 16035.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Cleanser 1 is always your first step, morning and night. Follow with toner, treatments or serums, moisturizer β and SPF during the day.
π How to Use
Build the Foam
With clean hands, dispense a small amount, add a little water and lather in big circular motions until you have a rich, stable foam. A foaming net can help at first.
Massage Gently
Massage the foam over a damp face for 20β30 seconds, letting the lather act as a net to lift dirt and impurities. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water β skin should feel clean and soft, never tight.
Follow Up
Pat dry and continue with the rest of your routine while skin is still slightly damp.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want a gentle daily wash that never leaves skin tight
- You have normal, combination or oily skin
- You'd like a subtle Vitamin C brightening boost
- You enjoy a cushiony, foaming cleansing ritual
- You prefer minimal, fuss-free packaging
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (some find it cleansing-forward)
- You're actively treating fungal acne (malassezia)
- You want a 100% fragrance-free formula
- You're shopping on a tight budget
- You dislike colorant dyes in skincare
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Foams away excess oil and makeup thoroughly without an over-stripped, squeaky finish.
Balances oilier zones while staying comfortable on drier areas β a frequent favourite for combo skin.
Hydrating boosters help, but the foaming surfactants can feel cleansing-forward for very dry skin β follow with a rich moisturizer.
Aloe and chamomile keep it gentle and reviewers report no stinging β but it does contain fragrance, so patch test if reactive.
Low comedogenic rating and helps clear blackheads, though it is not fungal-acne safe.
π Results Timeline
Clean, Comfortable Skin
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed, soft and refreshed straight after the first wash β without any tightness.
~90% noticedSmoother Texture
Regular use leaves skin feeling smoother, with early reports of a subtle brightness and fewer blackheads.
~65% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Cumulative Vitamin C cleansing, alongside the rest of a routine, supports a more radiant, even-looking complexion.
~55% noticedRefined, Glowing Look
With a full routine, users report reduced dullness, more refined-looking pores and an overall healthier glow.
~45% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Cleanses thoroughly without leaving skin tight
- Rich, cushiony foam feels comforting and luxurious
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin β no stinging
- Subtle brightening from the Vitamin C content
- Light, pleasant botanical scent
- A little goes a long way β concentrated formula
β Criticized
- Premium price for a 118 ml tube
- Requires a foaming technique to use well
- Contains fragrance and a colorant dye (CI 16035)
- Can feel drying for very dry/dehydrated skin
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Sold mainly via direct sales β limited retail access
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Stabilized Vitamin C plus niacinamide and ceramides in a gel-to-foam wash. Fragrance-free and far cheaper, but the foam is less cushiony and the experience less luxurious.
Pharmacy-grade Vitamin C gel cleanser focused on brightening and gentle daily use. Larger size and lower price, with a thinner lather than DR's Secret.
A gel-to-foam wash that cleanses without stripping, with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. No Vitamin C and no botanicals, but a very similar non-tight finish at a fraction of the cost.
π Comparison with Competitors
DR's Secret Cleanser 1 (Featured)
~$65Tatcha The Deep Cleanse
~$42CeraVe Brightening Vitamin C
~$16La Roche-Posay Vitamin C
~$27π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed to protect the Vitamin C.
Squeeze tube
Yes β 118 ml fits within most carry-on liquid limits
β Frequently Asked Questions
It is generally considered safe. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA) or hydroquinone, and it's a rinse-off cleanser with a low-concentration Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is widely regarded as pregnancy-friendly. It does contain fragrance, so if you are sensitive you may prefer to patch test. As always, confirm with your doctor or OB-GYN before changing your routine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No. The formula contains Polysorbate 20 and Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, both of which can potentially feed malassezia yeast. While it rinses off, those actively managing fungal acne may want to choose a stricter malassezia-safe cleanser.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser it is compatible with virtually all leave-on actives. Use it first to cleanse, then apply your retinol, Vitamin C serum, AHA or BHA afterwards. The small amount of Vitamin C in the cleanser is supportive and won't conflict with a stronger leave-on Vitamin C. If you use strong actives, just monitor for any dryness and adjust frequency.
It performs best on oily and combination skin, and is rated well for sensitive and acne-prone skin thanks to its soothing botanicals. Very dry or dehydrated skin may find the foaming surfactants a little cleansing-forward and should follow with a richer moisturizer.
Most users feel the clean, non-tight, soft finish from the very first wash. Smoother texture and a subtle brightness tend to appear over 1β2 weeks, while a more even, radiant tone builds over roughly 4β8 weeks of consistent use within a full routine.
It is your very first step, both morning and night. Cleanse with Cleanser 1, then follow with toner, treatments or serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen during the day.
It has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. The jojoba oil it contains is non-comedogenic, and because a cleanser is rinsed off rather than left on the skin, the pore-clogging risk is minimal for most people.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is approximately 12 months. To protect the Vitamin C and keep the formula fresh, store it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed between uses.
Verdict: DR's Secret Cleanser 1 lives up to its reputation as a gentle, gel-to-foam wash that cleanses thoroughly without leaving skin tight, with a subtle Vitamin C brightening edge and a cushiony, comforting lather. The trade-offs are a premium price, added fragrance and colorant, and a slight learning curve to foam it correctly. It's an easy recommendation for normal, combination and oily skin that wants a comforting daily cleanse β while very dry or fungal-acne-prone skin may be better served elsewhere.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
Tea-Lauryl Sulfate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming
|
|
|
| 2 |
Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer
Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cocamide DEA
Emulsifying, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|