Clear Face Care Gel
Clear Face Care Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, pH 5.5 balanced water-based gel moisturizer formulated with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, panthenol, and allantoin to hydrate acne-prone and oily skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Dermatologically tested with a minimal 12-ingredient formula.
Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Sodium hyaluronate binds up to 1000x its weight in water, providing deep hydration without heaviness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYHyaluronic Acid Complex
Sodium hyaluronate binds up to 1000x its weight in water, providing deep hydration without heaviness.
Aloe Vera Rich Formula
High concentration of aloe barbadensis soothes irritation, reduces redness, and promotes healing.
pH 5.5 Acid Mantle Protection
Matches skin's natural pH to strengthen the protective barrier and inhibit acne-causing bacteria.
Panthenol + Allantoin Duo
Pro-vitamin B5 and allantoin work together to calm inflammation and support skin healing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. All ingredients (aloe vera, glycerin, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, allantoin) are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.
Free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. Widely recommended in fungal acne communities.
Water-based gel with no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Rating: 0/5 on comedogenic scale.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dermatologically tested. Minimal 12-ingredient formula reduces irritation risk.
Works well with tretinoin, adapalene, and other retinoids. Many users report it helps buffer irritation from prescription acne treatments.
Safe to use with vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide, and benzoyl peroxide. No conflicting ingredients.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice High %Proven
The second ingredient after water, providing the gel's base. Known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Contains vitamins, minerals, and polysaccharides that calm irritated skin.
- Function: Soothing, hydrating, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Studies show aloe vera accelerates wound healing and reduces inflammation markers
- Benefits: Calms acne inflammation, soothes redness, provides lightweight hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate ~1%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, with smaller molecular weight for better skin penetration. Acts as a humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin.
- Function: Humectant, hydration booster
- Research: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water
- Benefits: Plumps skin, reduces fine lines appearance, improves skin elasticity
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~2%Proven
Converts to vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the skin. Deeply penetrating humectant that also supports the skin barrier and accelerates healing.
- Function: Moisturizing, healing, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Clinical studies show improved wound healing and reduced inflammation
- Benefits: Soothes acne lesions, reduces redness, supports barrier repair
Allantoin ~0.5%Proven
A compound naturally found in comfrey plant. Known for its ability to soothe, protect, and promote skin healing. Helps smooth rough, scaly skin common with acne.
- Function: Soothing, keratolytic, cell proliferation stimulant
- Research: Promotes cell regeneration and wound healing
- Benefits: Smooths texture, calms irritation, helps fade acne marks
Glycerin + Propylene Glycol + Sorbitol Combined ~5-10%Proven
A trio of humectants that work together to attract and retain moisture in the skin without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Function: Humectants, moisture retention
- Research: Well-established moisturizing agents with decades of safe use
- Benefits: Provide hydration without clogging pores, improve skin texture
12 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Sodium Carbomer, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM & PM after cleansing. Can be used alone as a moisturizer for oily skin, or layer under a heavier cream for dry skin. Works well as a buffer before retinoids.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with thoroughly cleansed skin. For best results, use Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam or a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser.
Apply Toner/Treatment (Optional)
If using any active treatments like AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C serum, apply them first and let absorb.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
A small drop is sufficient for the entire face. The gel spreads easily and a little goes a long way.
Distribute Evenly
Gently spread across forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Pat gently until fully absorbed. Can also apply to neck.
Layer or Follow with SPF
For dry skin, follow with a heavier moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen. For oily skin, this gel alone may be sufficient.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin
- Every moisturizer seems to break you out
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe moisturizer
- You use tretinoin/retinoids and need a gentle buffer
- You prefer minimal, no-fuss formulas
- You want lightweight hydration for hot/humid climates
- You have combination skin that gets oily in the T-zone
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin (may not be moisturizing enough alone)
- You need heavy-duty anti-aging benefits
- You prefer rich, creamy textures
- You're looking for active acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
- You want a mattifying finish (this has a slight natural sheen)
- You dislike any tackiness (may feel slightly tacky initially)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Lightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Water-based formula won't clog pores.
Ideal for balancing oily T-zone without neglecting dry areas. May need extra moisturizer on cheeks in winter.
Cult favorite for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and supports the skin's healing process.
Fragrance-free with minimal ingredients. Most sensitive skin tolerates it well, but patch test first for aloe sensitivity.
Provides light hydration but likely insufficient on its own. Best used under a richer moisturizer or mixed with facial oil.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Instant Hydration & Soothing
Skin feels refreshed, cooled, and hydrated. Redness from active breakouts appears calmer. Gel absorbs quickly leaving skin comfortable.
95% noticed immediate comfortReduced Breakouts & Calmer Skin
Users typically notice fewer new breakouts forming. Existing acne appears less inflamed. Skin feels more balanced and less reactive.
78% reported calmer skinImproved Skin Texture
Skin barrier feels stronger. Texture appears smoother. Many report this is when they confirm the product works without causing issues.
82% saw texture improvementLong-Term Skin Health
Consistent users report maintained clear skin, better product tolerance, and improved overall skin resilience. Acne healing appears faster.
85% continued using as stapleRatings by platform
13K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Minimal 12-ingredient formula perfect for elimination diets
- Fungal acne safe - cult favorite in FA communities
- Works beautifully with tretinoin and other retinoids
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- No fragrance, parabens, silicones, or oils
- pH 5.5 supports skin barrier
- Lightweight texture perfect for oily/combo skin
- German pharmacy quality and dermatologist-tested
- Soothing for irritated, inflamed acne
Criticized
- Small 50ml size makes it feel expensive per ounce
- Not moisturizing enough for dry skin types
- May feel slightly tacky before fully absorbing
- Can pill under certain makeup or products
- No active acne-fighting ingredients
- Not widely available in all countries
- Different formulations in different regions (check ingredients)
- Some rosacea-prone users reported irritation
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Closest ingredient match. Similar aloe-based, minimal formula without fatty acids or oils. Also fungal acne safe.
80% aloe vera with 5 types of hyaluronic acid. Larger 150ml size offers better value. Slightly more hydrating. Community favorite.
Aloe-based with added propolis for antibacterial benefits. 100ml size. Contains bee-derived ingredients (not vegan). Slightly richer.
Most affordable option at 4.9oz. Widely available at drugstores. Less sophisticated formula but decent for basic hydration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the symbol on packaging for confirmation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; refrigeration optional but not required.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination. Opaque tube protects ingredients from light.
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in carry-on toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes! This gel contains no pregnancy-restricted ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients (water, aloe vera, glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, allantoin) are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The minimal formula makes it an excellent choice for expecting mothers who want to minimize ingredient exposure while maintaining skin hydration.
Yes! This is one of the most recommended moisturizers in fungal acne communities. It contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The formula has been verified as fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient-checking resources including SkinCarisma, SkinSort, and Folliculitis Scout. Many users with stubborn fungal acne report this as their holy grail moisturizer.
Absolutely! This gel is highly compatible with active ingredients. Many tretinoin and adapalene users specifically choose this gel because it helps buffer irritation without clogging pores. You can apply actives first, wait for absorption, then apply the gel. Some users mix the gel with their retinoid to dilute it. It also works well with vitamin C serums, niacinamide, AHAs, BHAs, and benzoyl peroxide. No conflicting ingredients.
This gel is BEST for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The lightweight, water-based formula provides hydration without heaviness or greasiness. It's also excellent for those with fungal acne, sensitive skin (fragrance-free), and anyone using prescription acne treatments. For dry skin, it may not be moisturizing enough on its own - consider layering with a richer cream or mixing with facial oil.
You'll feel immediate hydration and soothing upon first use. Within 1-2 weeks, most users notice calmer skin with fewer new breakouts. By weeks 3-4, you should see improved skin texture and confirmed compatibility. This product works best as a supportive moisturizer rather than an active treatment - it helps your skin heal and stay balanced rather than directly fighting acne with actives.
Apply after cleansing and any water-based treatments (toners, essences, serums). The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Treatment Serums → This Gel → Heavier Moisturizer (if needed) → Sunscreen (AM). For oily skin, this gel can be your only moisturizer. For dry skin, layer a cream on top. When using retinoids, you can apply this gel before OR after your retinoid depending on your sensitivity level.
No! This gel has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it's non-comedogenic and extremely unlikely to clog pores. The water-based formula contains no oils, waxes, or heavy emollients that typically cause congestion. It's specifically designed for acne-prone skin and has been dermatologically tested. The minimal 12-ingredient formula reduces the chance of any ingredient causing breakouts.
The gel has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. The tube packaging helps prevent contamination and oxidation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 50ml size typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use on face only, so you'll likely finish it well before the 12-month expiration.
Verdict: Sebamed Clear Face Care Gel is a cult-favorite moisturizer for oily, acne-prone, and fungal acne-affected skin. Its minimal 12-ingredient formula, pH 5.5 balance, and complete absence of common acne triggers make it an exceptional choice for those who react to everything else. While the small size and price-per-ounce may feel expensive, and dry skin types will need additional moisture, this German pharmacy staple delivers on its promise of gentle, effective hydration.Best for: Oily/combo skin, fungal acne sufferers, pregnant individuals, and retinoid users seeking a reliable, no-frills moisturizer.
Browse related
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 5 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 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|