Cleansing Foam Face Wash For Sensitive Skin
Cleansing Foam Face Wash For Sensitive Skin
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, oil-free foaming cleanser formulated with 98% natural-origin ingredients to effectively cleanse sensitive, redness-prone skin without stripping moisture. Enriched with allantoin, panthenol, and eyebright extract for a calm, comfortable cleanse.
Gentle on Redness-Prone Skin
Formulated with eyebright extract to soothe dilated capillaries and reduce visible redness during cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle on Redness-Prone Skin
Formulated with eyebright extract to soothe dilated capillaries and reduce visible redness during cleansing.
Hydrating While Cleansing
Glycerin, sorbitol, and natural moisturizing factors (NMF) prevent the tight, dry feeling after washing.
Safe for Contact Lens Wearers
Ophthalmologically tested formula is gentle enough to use around sensitive eyes without irritation.
Pharmacy-Grade Quality
Developed by Polish pharmacists with over 35 years of expertise in dermatological formulations.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Only contains gentle lactic acid at non-irritating levels.
No ferments, problematic fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates. Uses gentle surfactants that don't feed malassezia yeast.
Oil-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores or contribute to breakouts.
Includes parfum (fragrance) which may irritate extremely sensitive or reactive skin. Patch test recommended.
Uses decyl glucoside and sodium cocoamphoacetate - gentle, coconut-derived cleansing agents suitable for sensitive skin.
Safe to use in routines with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Gentle pH-balanced formula won't interfere with actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAllantoin ~0.5%Proven
A powerful soothing and healing compound naturally found in comfrey root. Calms irritation, promotes skin cell regeneration, and creates a protective barrier on sensitive skin.
- Cleveland Clinic: Allantoin is a humectant that increases water content in skin while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Research: Studies show allantoin accelerates wound healing by 25% and significantly reduces skin irritation.
Panthenol (Provitamin B5) ~1%Proven
A moisture-binding powerhouse that penetrates deep into skin layers, attracting and retaining hydration while strengthening the skin barrier.
- Mechanism: Converts to vitamin B5 in skin, enhancing barrier function and reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and long-lasting hydration with comedogenic rating of 0.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~0.5%Proven
A multi-tasking vitamin that brightens, reduces redness, and helps build keratin for firmer skin while regulating sebum production.
- Research: Even at low concentrations, niacinamide helps repair the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
- Compatibility: Can be safely combined with all other skincare ingredients including vitamin C and retinoids.
Euphrasia Officinalis (Eyebright) ExtractTraditional
A botanical extract traditionally used for eye and skin irritation. Provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits specifically targeting redness and dilated capillaries.
- Traditional Use: Used for centuries in European herbal medicine for eye and skin conditions.
- Modern Application: Helps calm visible redness and supports sensitive, couperose-prone skin.
Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) ComplexProven
A blend of sodium lactate, sodium PCA, glycine, fructose, urea, and inositol that mimics skin's natural hydrating components.
- Sodium PCA: The most powerful humectant naturally present in skin - attracts and holds moisture.
- Urea: Provides hydration and gentle keratolytic action for smooth, soft skin.
- Lactic Acid: Mild AHA for gentle exfoliation and moisture retention without irritation.
21 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Sorbitol, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Panthenol, Allantoin, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Niacinamide, Inositol, Lactic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Euphrasia Officinalis Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum (Fragrance), Citric Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as a second cleanser in double cleansing routine, or as a standalone morning cleanser. Perfect for both AM and PM use.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Avoid hot water which can aggravate sensitive skin and redness.
Dispense Foam
Pump 2-3 pumps of foam directly into your palms. The foam comes out ready to use - no need to lather.
Gently Massage
Apply to face using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Can be used around the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all foam is removed. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel - don't rub.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive or easily irritated skin
- You experience redness or dilated capillaries
- You want a gentle cleanser that doesn't strip moisture
- You wear contact lenses and need eye-safe products
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You're on a budget but want quality ingredients
- You have mature skin prone to dryness
- You struggle with fungal acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin needing deep pore cleansing
- You prefer fragrance-free products only
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal
- You want an exfoliating cleanser with high AHA/BHA
- You're extremely sensitive to any fragrance
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for sensitive skin. Allantoin and panthenol soothe while mild surfactants cleanse without irritation.
NMF complex and glycerin provide hydration during cleansing. Leaves skin soft, never tight or stripped.
Effectively cleanses without over-drying or leaving residue. Balances well across different face zones.
May feel too gentle for very oily skin. Consider pairing with an oil cleanser for thorough double cleansing.
Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe. Won't aggravate breakouts, though not a targeted acne treatment.
Gentle enough for aging skin without stripping natural oils. Supports barrier function during anti-aging routines.
Results timeline
2-3 MONTHSClean, Comfortable Skin
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed yet soft and hydrated. No tightness or dryness. Visible redness may appear calmer.
95% report immediate comfortImproved Skin Texture
Consistent use reveals smoother, more balanced skin. Gentle exfoliation from lactic acid begins showing results.
78% notice softer skinReduced Sensitivity
Skin barrier strengthens with regular use. Less reactive to environmental triggers and other skincare products.
65% report less sensitivityVisible Redness Reduction
Long-term use with eyebright extract and anti-inflammatory ingredients helps manage visible redness and capillaries.
52% see redness improvementRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally gentle on sensitive and irritated skin
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
- Convenient foam pump dispenser
- Safe for contact lens wearers
- Impressive 98% natural-origin ingredients
- Excellent value for the quality
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Works well for double cleansing
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (parfum)
- May be too gentle for very oily skin
- Not effective for heavy makeup removal
- Only available in 150ml size
- Can be hard to find outside Europe
- Fragrance may irritate extremely reactive skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Fragrance-free alternative with similar gentle surfactants. Lacks the soothing botanicals but ideal for extremely reactive skin that can't tolerate any fragrance.
Another gentle, fragrance-free option with similar cleansing approach. Contains vitamin B5 like Ziaja but lacks the NMF complex and eyebright extract.
Classic dermatologist-recommended gentle cleanser. Different formula approach but similar gentleness. Not a foam formula - cream/lotion texture instead.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEZiaja Cleansing Foam
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap closed between uses to preserve foam pump.
Foam pump dispenser - dispenses ready-to-use foam for hygienic, mess-free application
Yes - 150ml is over the 100ml TSA limit but suitable for checked luggage. Consider decanting for carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, high-percentage salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The only AHA present is lactic acid at very low, non-irritating levels that don't pose any risk. All key ingredients (allantoin, panthenol, glycerin, niacinamide) have excellent safety profiles for expecting and nursing mothers.
Yes, this formula is fungal acne safe. It contains no fermented ingredients, problematic fatty acids (C12-C24), esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. The surfactants used (decyl glucoside, disodium cocoyl glutamate, sodium cocoamphoacetate) are all considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin. This makes it an excellent cleanser choice if you struggle with pityrosporum folliculitis.
Absolutely! This gentle cleanser is an excellent companion to active ingredients. Its mild, pH-balanced formula won't interfere with the efficacy of your retinol, vitamin C serums, or chemical exfoliants. In fact, the soothing allantoin and panthenol can help buffer potential irritation from these actives. Use it as your cleansing step before applying any treatments.
This cleanser excels for sensitive, dry, mature, and redness-prone skin types. It's specifically formulated for those with dilated capillaries and easily irritated skin. While suitable for combination skin, those with very oily skin may find it too gentle and prefer a more oil-controlling cleanser. It's also excellent for anyone undergoing treatments that compromise skin barrier (like retinoids or post-procedure care).
You'll notice immediate comfort - skin feels clean yet soft and hydrated after the first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you should see smoother, more balanced skin texture. After 4-6 weeks, many users report reduced sensitivity and reactivity. For visible improvement in redness and capillary appearance, expect 2-3 months of regular use alongside a consistent skincare routine.
Use this as Step 2 in a double cleansing routine (after oil cleanser) or as your standalone morning cleanser. The order is: Oil Cleanser (PM) → This Foam Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). It's effective both morning and evening. In the morning, you can use it alone without double cleansing unless your skin produces excess oil overnight.
No, this cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0 - it will not clog pores. It's completely oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. The formula is non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. In fact, the gentle lactic acid can help keep pores clear while the overall formula supports healthy skin without contributing to congestion or breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. This means you should use the product within 12 months of first opening it for optimal freshness and efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The foam pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene by preventing contamination from fingers. With typical twice-daily use, the 150ml bottle usually lasts 2-3 months.
Verdict: Ziaja Cleansing Foam Face Wash for Sensitive Skin delivers exceptional value as a gentle, effective cleanser for reactive and redness-prone skin. The impressive 98% natural-origin formula combines proven soothing ingredients like allantoin and panthenol with a comprehensive NMF complex that prevents the dreaded post-cleanse tightness. While the inclusion of fragrance may deter those with extreme sensitivities, for most sensitive skin types this Polish pharmacy gem offers pharmacy-grade quality at a fraction of premium brand prices. An excellent choice for building a calming, barrier-supportive skincare routine.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|