Cleansing Foam
Cleansing Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A mild, refreshing foaming cleanser that transforms from liquid to creamy foam upon dispensing. Enriched with apple fruit water, panthenol, bisabolol, and aloe vera, it gently binds dirt and impurities while leaving skin soft, hydrated, and never stripped or tight. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive.
Apple Fruit Water Complex
Contains Pyrus Malus Fruit Water with antioxidant bioflavonoids and broccoli extract for a detoxifying cleanse that protects skin from environmental stressors.
Texture & feel
SENSORYApple Fruit Water Complex
Contains Pyrus Malus Fruit Water with antioxidant bioflavonoids and broccoli extract for a detoxifying cleanse that protects skin from environmental stressors.
Amino Acid Surfactants
Uses ultra-gentle Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate and Coco-Glucoside instead of harsh sulfates, maintaining the skin barrier while effectively removing impurities.
Triple Moisture System
Glycerin, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), and Aloe Vera work together to ensure skin stays hydrated and never feels tight or stripped after cleansing.
Soothing Bisabolol
Derived from chamomile, bisabolol calms and soothes the skin during cleansing, reducing redness and irritation for a comfortable wash experience.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from ferments, problematic fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. The formula does not feed Malassezia yeast and is safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No known pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight, rinse-off formula makes comedogenic risk extremely low.
The formula includes synthetic fragrance. While well-tolerated by most, those with extreme fragrance sensitivity should patch test first.
pH-balanced and gentle enough to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA treatments without causing additional irritation.
A chelating agent used to stabilize the formula. Safe in rinse-off products at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCoco-Glucoside ~8-12%Proven
A plant-derived (coconut and glucose) surfactant that creates moderate to rich, stable foam. One of the mildest cleansing agents available, fully biodegradable and suitable even for baby skin.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and fruit sugars
- Function: Primary gentle surfactant with excellent skin compatibility
- Benefit: Effectively removes dirt and oil without disrupting the skin barrier
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate ~3-6%Proven
An amino acid-based surfactant with excellent foaming properties. Derived from glutamic acid (a naturally occurring amino acid), it cleanses gently enough to be used on sensitive and baby skin.
- Source: Fermentation-derived amino acid surfactant
- Function: Secondary foaming agent with very low irritation potential
- Benefit: Maintains skin's natural pH while providing effective cleansing
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture to the skin. In a cleanser, it counteracts the drying effects of surfactants, keeping the skin lipid barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state.
- Research: Effective moisturizer from as low as 3%, with additional barrier benefits at higher concentrations
- Function: Humectant and skin-barrier protector
- Comedogenicity: 0 / Irritancy: 0
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5-1%Proven
Converts to Vitamin B5 in the skin and provides deep moisturization, promotes wound healing, and reduces inflammation. Widely used in dermatology for its skin-soothing properties.
- Research: Clinically demonstrated to improve skin hydration, barrier function, and reduce transepidermal water loss
- Function: Anti-inflammatory moisturizer and skin protectant
Pyrus Malus Fruit Water ~1-3%Promising
Apple fruit water rich in natural antioxidants. Provides gentle toning and refreshing properties while contributing to the product's anti-oxidative complex.
- Source: Extracted from apple fruit
- Function: Antioxidant toner and natural solvent
Bisabolol ~0.1-0.5%Proven
A soothing compound naturally found in chamomile essential oil. Known for its powerful anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-calming properties.
- Research: Studies confirm anti-inflammatory activity comparable to some pharmaceutical agents
- Function: Calms redness and irritation during and after cleansing
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract ~0.1-0.5%Proven
A hydrating and soothing botanical extract that helps reduce inflammation and provides a protective moisture layer to the skin during cleansing.
- Research: Well-documented humectant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Function: Soothes skin and locks in moisture
20 ingredients
Aqua, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Glycerin, Propanediol, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Pyrus Malus Fruit Water, Phenoxyethanol, Panthenol, Parfum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Sulfite, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Bisabolol, Bioflavonoids, Brassica Oleracea Italica Extract, Pantolactone, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in the morning or Step 2 (after oil cleanser) in the evening for double cleansing. Apply to dry skin, then add water to lather.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake & Dispense
Shake the bottle gently before use. Press the pump to dispense the creamy foam directly into the palm of your hand.
Apply to Dry Skin
Apply the foam onto dry skin on the face, neck, and décolleté. This is important for maximum cleansing effectiveness.
Massage with Water
Moisten fingertips with cool water and work the foam into a lather using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with plenty of cool water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your toner or serum.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, non-stripping daily cleanser
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to harsh surfactants
- You prefer a professional, spa-quality cleansing experience
- You need a pregnancy-safe and fungal acne-safe cleanser
- You want a sulfate-free foam cleanser that still lathers well
- You use active ingredients (retinol, AHAs) and need a gentle wash
Consider alternatives if:
- You are on a strict budget (drugstore options offer similar results)
- You need a cleanser to remove heavy/waterproof makeup alone
- You are extremely sensitive to any fragrance (this contains parfum)
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free formula
- You want active exfoliating ingredients in your cleanser (AHA/BHA)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess oil without over-stripping. Gentle enough for twice-daily use, though very oily skin may want a deeper-cleaning option.
Glycerin, panthenol, and aloe vera prevent the tight, stripped feeling. Leaves dry skin feeling comfortable and hydrated after cleansing.
Balances well across different face zones. Cleanses the T-zone effectively while not drying out cheeks or jawline.
Amino acid surfactants and bisabolol are extremely gentle. Contains fragrance however, so patch test if you have fragrance sensitivities.
Non-comedogenic (rating 1/5) and fungal acne safe. No active anti-acne ingredients, but won't aggravate or contribute to breakouts.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Clean Feeling
Skin feels soft, clean, and refreshed after the very first use. No tightness or dryness, even on sensitive skin.
95% noticedImproved Skin Comfort
Skin starts to feel more balanced and less reactive. The barrier-friendly formula helps calm any irritation from previous harsh cleansers.
80% noticedClearer, Softer Complexion
Complexion appears more radiant and even-toned. Gentle daily cleansing with antioxidant apple water and bioflavonoids shows cumulative skin-improving effects.
70% noticedLong-Term Skin Health
Sustained use alongside your skincare routine leads to a healthier, more resilient skin barrier. Fewer breakouts and less sensitivity reported.
65% noticedRatings by platform
380+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally gentle, never leaves skin tight or dry
- Professional spa-quality formula with premium German engineering
- Suitable for all skin types including very sensitive skin
- Clean, simple 20-ingredient formula with no harsh surfactants
- Convenient pump dispenser creates perfect foam instantly
- Enriched with soothing botanicals (aloe, bisabolol, panthenol)
- Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and mineral oil
- Long-term users report decade-plus loyalty to this product
Criticized
- Higher price point compared to drugstore alternatives (~$40)
- Contains synthetic fragrance (Parfum), not fragrance-free
- Fragrance scent can seem chemical rather than perfumed
- May not remove heavy or waterproof makeup on its own
- Foam pump can lead to faster product consumption
- No active anti-acne or exfoliating ingredients
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also uses gentle surfactants with added ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Fragrance-free but lacks the botanical antioxidants and panthenol found in BABOR. More clinical feel, less luxurious texture.
Fragrance-free gentle foaming cleanser with niacinamide and ceramide. Slightly simpler formula without the botanical extracts but excellent for very sensitive skin. Less moisturizing feel.
Ultra-minimal, fragrance-free formula ideal for the most sensitive skin. No botanical extracts or antioxidants, but extremely gentle and non-irritating. Gel-to-foam texture differs from BABOR's creamy foam.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap closed between uses to preserve the pump mechanism.
Foam pump dispenser bottle (200 ml) — propellant-free, liquid converts to foam upon pumping
No — 200 ml exceeds the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. BABOR Cleansing Foam does not contain any ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters in the formula. All 20 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and nursing. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes. The formula is free from ferments, problematic fatty acids (like oleic acid and lauric acid), esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The surfactants used (Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate) are glucoside-based and considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin. This makes it a suitable cleansing option if you struggle with fungal acne.
Absolutely. BABOR Cleansing Foam is a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser without active exfoliants, making it an ideal pairing with active treatments. It won't interfere with or reduce the efficacy of retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. In fact, using a gentle cleanser like this is highly recommended when your routine includes potent actives, as it avoids unnecessary irritation.
BABOR Cleansing Foam is formulated for all skin types, but it particularly excels for dry, combination, and sensitive skin. The amino acid-based surfactants are among the mildest available, and the addition of glycerin, panthenol, and aloe vera ensures the skin stays hydrated. Oily skin types can also use it effectively, though those with very oily skin may prefer a deeper-cleaning option.
You will notice softer, more comfortable skin immediately after your first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, your skin should feel more balanced and less reactive, especially if switching from a harsher cleanser. After 3-4 weeks, expect a visibly clearer and more radiant complexion as the gentle formula and antioxidant botanicals provide cumulative benefits.
In the morning, use it as your first step (Step 1) to cleanse overnight buildup. In the evening, use it as Step 2 after an oil-based cleanser for double cleansing. Apply to dry skin first, then add water to lather before rinsing. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
No. BABOR Cleansing Foam has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. None of its 20 ingredients are known comedogens. Additionally, as a rinse-off product, any potential comedogenic risk is further reduced since the ingredients are not left on the skin long-term.
BABOR Cleansing Foam has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 200 ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (one pump per use). If you use it only once daily or alternate with an oil cleanser, it can last up to 4-5 months. Store upright in a cool, dry place for best results.
Verdict: BABOR Cleansing Foam is a premium, beautifully formulated German cleanser that delivers on its promise of gentle yet effective cleansing. The amino acid surfactant base, combined with panthenol, bisabolol, and apple fruit water, makes it one of the kindest foaming cleansers on the market. It earns high marks for being pregnancy-safe, fungal acne-safe, and compatible with all skin types. The main drawback is the price — at $40 for 200 ml, it's significantly more expensive than drugstore alternatives like CeraVe and La Roche-Posay that offer similar gentle cleansing. The inclusion of fragrance also prevents a perfect score. If budget allows and you value a luxurious, spa-quality daily cleanse with clean formulation standards, BABOR Cleansing Foam is an excellent choice.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|