Cleansing Milk With DMS
Cleansing Milk With DMS
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, emulsifier-free cleansing milk powered by Derma Membrane Structure (DMS) technology that mimics your skin's own lipid barrier. Cleanses and nourishes in one step, removing makeup and impurities without stripping or disrupting your skin's natural defenses. Ideal for sensitive, dry, compromised, and post-treatment skin.
DMS Technology
Derma Membrane Structure mimics the skin's natural lipid bilayer using phosphatidylcholine, ceramides, squalane, and triglycerides for bio-identical cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDMS Technology
Derma Membrane Structure mimics the skin's natural lipid bilayer using phosphatidylcholine, ceramides, squalane, and triglycerides for bio-identical cleansing.
Barrier-First Cleansing
Free from emulsifiers and surfactants that can dissolve skin lipids. Cleanses without disrupting the stratum corneum or stripping natural oils.
Minimal Ingredient Formula
Just 12 carefully selected ingredients with zero fillers. No preservatives, fragrances, colorants, mineral oils, silicones, or amines.
Care + Cleanse in One
Composition mirrors dermaviduals DMS Base Creams, delivering nourishing skincare benefits while removing makeup and daily impurities.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Shea Butter (fatty acids that may feed Malassezia yeast) and Squalane (safe if sugarcane-derived, but source is unconfirmed). Patch test recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Most ingredients rate 0 on the comedogenicity scale. Shea Butter is present at a low concentration (estimated 0.6–1.4%), minimizing pore-clogging risk.
Free from common allergens (EU 26), fragrances, preservatives, and emulsifiers. Suitable for eczema, rosacea, dermatitis, and post-procedure skin.
Pairs well with retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs in other steps. As a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, it supports active-heavy routines without added irritation.
Dermaviduals is a corneotherapy brand often prescribed by trained skin therapists. Available through authorized clinics and selected retailers.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine ~2–4%Proven
The backbone of DMS technology. A hydrogenated form of lecithin that forms lamellar structures identical to the skin's own lipid bilayer. Acts as a gentle emulsifier alternative and skin-barrier repair agent.
- Function: Creates liposomal delivery structures, stabilizes the formulation without conventional emulsifiers
- Research: Phosphatidylcholine is a naturally occurring phospholipid that makes up cell membranes and supports barrier repair
- Benefit: Enables cleansing without disrupting the stratum corneum's lipid matrix
Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A naturally occurring ceramide found in the upper layers of the skin. Makes up approximately 50% of the lipid matrix between skin cells and plays a critical role in barrier integrity and moisture retention.
- Research: Ceramides are essential for maintaining the brick-and-mortar structure of the stratum corneum
- Benefit: Replenishes barrier lipids depleted by cleansing, UV exposure, and environmental stress
- Synergy: Works best alongside phosphatidylcholine and squalane (all present in this formula)
Squalane ~0.5–1.5%Proven
A saturated, stable hydrocarbon that mirrors the skin's own sebum. Lightweight, non-greasy, and compatible with virtually all skin types including acne-prone and sensitive skin.
- Function: Emollient that softens and smooths while reinforcing the skin's lipid barrier
- Stability: Saturated form (squalane, not squalene) resists oxidation for longer shelf life
- Compatibility: Non-comedogenic (rating 0), well-tolerated by reactive skin
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii) ~0.6–1.4%Proven
Rich in stearic acid, oleic acid, and vitamins A and E. A deeply nourishing emollient that softens, protects, and provides antioxidant benefits to the skin during cleansing.
- Benefit: Creates a protective film to prevent moisture loss while cleansing
- Research: Rich in triterpenes and tocopherols with demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
A skin-identical humectant naturally present in the skin. Draws moisture from the environment into the upper skin layers and helps maintain the liquid crystal state of intercellular lipids.
- Research: Studies show glycerin is more effective as a humectant than hyaluronic acid and AHAs
- Comedogenicity: 0 — completely non-comedogenic and non-irritating
- Synergy: Enhances ceramide function and supports overall barrier hydration
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride ~7–11%Proven
A lightweight emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. Provides the primary cleansing action by dissolving makeup and impurities without a greasy residue.
- Function: Gentle conditioning agent that lifts dirt and makeup from the skin surface
- Texture: Clear, odorless, and non-greasy with excellent skin tolerance across all skin types
12 ingredients
Aqua, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Methylpropanediol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ceramide NP, Squalane, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first and only cleansing step, morning and evening. No pre-cleanse or double cleanse needed for most makeup. Can also replace micellar water as a no-rinse cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Skin
Dispense 1–2 pumps of Cleansing Milk onto dry fingertips. There is no need to wet the face first.
Massage in Circular Motions
Gently massage across the face, including eye area, in soft circular motions for 30–60 seconds. The milk will dissolve makeup and impurities.
Remove Gently
Wipe away with a damp microfibre cloth or dermaviduals cleansing mitt. Alternatively, rinse with lukewarm water. No secondary cleanser needed.
Continue Routine
Follow with your toner, serum, or DMS Base Cream. Skin should feel comfortable and nourished — never tight or stripped.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- Your skin barrier is compromised or damaged (post-peel, post-laser, over-exfoliated)
- You suffer from rosacea, eczema, or dermatitis
- You want a cleanser that nourishes while it cleanses
- You prefer a minimal, clean ingredient list
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You have dry, dehydrated, or mature skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer a foaming or lathering cleanser
- You need heavy-duty waterproof makeup removal
- You have very oily skin and want a deep-cleansing feel
- You are looking for a budget-friendly drugstore option
- You have confirmed fungal acne and need a strictly FA-safe formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich, nourishing formula with shea butter, squalane, and ceramides leaves dry skin feeling comfortable and hydrated after cleansing.
Zero fragrances, preservatives, or surfactants. Designed specifically for reactive, intolerant, and post-procedure skin.
Effectively cleanses without over-stripping. Oilier T-zone areas may benefit from a second gentle pass with the cloth.
May feel too rich for very oily skin. Works well as a morning cleanser or when skin is sensitized, but may not feel deeply cleansing enough for PM use.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and barrier-supportive formula. Great alongside acne treatments. Caution for fungal acne due to shea butter content.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort
Skin feels softer, more comfortable, and less tight after cleansing compared to foaming cleansers. No stinging or dryness.
90% noticed immediatelyReduced Dryness & Flakiness
Barrier begins to recover as emulsifier exposure is eliminated. Dry patches and flakiness diminish. Skin retains moisture better throughout the day.
75% noticed improvementCalmer, More Resilient Skin
Redness and reactivity decrease as the lipid barrier strengthens. Skin looks healthier and more balanced. Products applied after cleansing absorb more effectively.
65% noticed improvementBarrier Restoration
Consistent use supports meaningful barrier repair. Skin tolerates actives better, shows less transepidermal water loss, and has improved overall texture and tone.
80% noticed long-term benefitRatings by platform
300+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — does not sting, burn, or irritate even the most reactive skin
- Skin feels soft and nourished after cleansing, never tight or stripped
- Effective at removing makeup including eye makeup
- Minimal, clean ingredient list with only 12 ingredients
- No fragrances, preservatives, or emulsifiers
- Suitable for eczema, rosacea, and post-treatment skin
- Backed by German corneotherapy science
- Can be used without water
Criticized
- Premium price point (~$50–80 for 150ml)
- No foaming or lathering action — may not feel "clean" to some users
- Pump mechanism can be difficult to use initially
- Not widely available — often requires purchasing through authorized clinics
- May not fully remove heavy waterproof makeup in one step
- Too rich for very oily skin types
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains three ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Uses mild surfactants (not emulsifier-free like dermaviduals). More widely available and affordable, but includes PEGs and polysorbates absent from the DMS formula.
French pharmacy no-rinse milk cleanser with thermal spring water. Contains fragrance and soybean oil unlike the dermaviduals. Hydrating but lacks the DMS skin-identical lipid structure and ceramides.
Gentle milky cleanser for intolerant skin with thermal spring water. Fragrance-free and soap-free. Closer philosophy but uses glyceryl stearate as emulsifier — not fully emulsifier-free like DMS technology.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed. Keep pump sealed when not in use.
Airless pump bottle (150ml and 500ml) or tube (30ml). Designed to minimize contamination and preserve the preservative-free formula.
Yes — the 30ml size is carry-on compliant (under 100ml). The 150ml version exceeds carry-on limits but fits checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The minimal, skin-identical formula is considered safe for use throughout pregnancy and nursing. Multiple esthetician sites list it as pregnancy-safe.
Use with caution. The formula contains Shea Butter, which has fatty acids (oleic acid, stearic acid) that may feed Malassezia yeast. It also contains Squalane, which is generally safe but depends on the source — olive-derived squalane can contain impurities that trigger fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, patch test first or consider a strictly FA-safe cleanser.
Absolutely. Because this cleanser is surfactant-free and non-stripping, it is an excellent companion for active-heavy routines. It minimizes additional irritation from the cleansing step, allowing your retinol, vitamin C, or exfoliating acids to work without a compromised barrier. Apply actives in separate steps after cleansing.
It is best suited for dry, sensitive, compromised, and post-treatment skin types. It also works well for combination, mature, menopausal, rosacea-prone, and eczema-prone skin. Those with very oily skin may find it too gentle or rich, especially for evening cleansing after heavy makeup.
Most users notice immediate comfort — skin feels softer and less tight from the very first use. Visible barrier improvement (less redness, flakiness, reactivity) typically appears within 2–4 weeks. Full barrier restoration from consistent use can take 6–12 weeks, depending on the degree of existing damage.
It is the very first step — your cleanser. Use morning and evening on dry skin, then remove with water or a damp cloth. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). No pre-cleanser or micellar water needed beforehand for most makeup types.
The overall comedogenic rating is 1/5 — very low risk. Most ingredients score 0. Shea Butter has a higher individual comedogenic rating but is present at a very low concentration (estimated 0.6–1.4%) and is rinsed off during cleansing, further reducing any pore-clogging risk. Most acne-prone users tolerate it well.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Because the formula is preservative-free, the airless pump packaging is designed to minimize bacterial contamination. Keep the pump sealed when not in use and avoid introducing water into the bottle.
Verdict: The dermaviduals Cleansing Milk with DMS is a premium, science-backed cleanser that truly delivers on its barrier-repair promise. Its emulsifier-free, skin-identical DMS formula sets it apart from every other milk cleanser on the market. With just 12 carefully chosen ingredients, it cleanses and nourishes without stripping, making it a standout for sensitive, dry, and compromised skin. The price is higher than drugstore alternatives, and it may feel too gentle for oily skin types, but for anyone prioritizing barrier health and corneotherapy principles, this is one of the best cleansers available. A half-star deducted for limited availability and premium pricing.
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 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|