Clearderma Moisturizer
Clearderma Moisturizer
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free daily moisturizer from Face Reality Skincare — professionally formulated for acne-prone, oily, and combination skin. Delivers fast-absorbing hydration with niacinamide, lilac stem cells, green tea, and cranberry extract to soothe irritation, balance sebum, and support skin clarity without clogging pores or adding shine.
Regulates Sebum
Lilac stem cells and niacinamide work together to balance oil production and keep pores clear.
Texture & feel
SENSORYRegulates Sebum
Lilac stem cells and niacinamide work together to balance oil production and keep pores clear.
Antioxidant Defense
Green tea, cranberry, and totarol shield skin from free radicals that can trigger breakouts.
Oil-Free Hydration
Delivers lightweight moisture without clogging pores — ideal for combination and acne-prone skin.
Soothes Irritation
Allantoin, bisabolol, and chamomile calm inflammation and redness from active acne treatments.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Niacinamide and botanical extracts are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, polysorbates, and safflower oil — potential triggers for Malassezia-related breakouts.
Professionally formulated for acne-prone skin. Free of known pore-clogging ingredients and tested by acne specialists.
Do not apply directly over Face Reality Acne Med — wait at least 1 minute, or better: use at a different step to avoid blocking BPO penetration.
Compatible with retinoids, mandelic acid, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA — use as a buffering moisturizer to reduce irritation.
Present in small amounts as a formulation aid. Not a drying concentration, but those with highly reactive skin may want to patch test.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2-4%Proven
A powerhouse multitasker that regulates oil production, reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, strengthens the skin barrier, and calms inflammation — making it a cornerstone ingredient for acne-prone skin.
- Oil control: Clinical studies show niacinamide reduces sebum excretion rate with consistent use.
- Barrier support: Increases ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis in the stratum corneum.
- Post-acne marks: Inhibits melanosome transfer, helping fade red and brown marks left behind by breakouts.
Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Leaf Cell Culture Extract ActivePromising
A signature Face Reality ingredient. Plant stem cell extract that acts as a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor — meaning it helps regulate the hormonal pathway driving excess sebum, one of the core causes of adult acne.
- Sebum regulation: Studies suggest verbascoside-rich lilac extract modulates sebocyte activity.
- Antimicrobial: Demonstrates antifungal and antibacterial action against acne-causing microorganisms.
- Anti-inflammatory: Soothes existing breakouts and reduces post-inflammatory redness.
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract ActiveProven
One of the most well-studied botanicals in acne care. Rich in EGCG polyphenols that deliver strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits — plus sebum-regulating effects similar to niacinamide.
- Peer-reviewed research: Topical green tea has been shown to significantly reduce acne lesion counts in clinical trials.
- 5-alpha reductase inhibition: Helps reduce androgen-driven oil production at the follicle level.
- Free radical protection: Neutralizes oxidative stress from UV exposure and pollution.
Totarol ActivePromising
A naturally derived diterpenoid from the Totara tree, known for potent antibacterial activity against acne-causing bacteria. Doubles as a powerful antioxidant and natural preservative booster.
- Antibacterial: Research shows activity against C. acnes (formerly P. acnes) at low concentrations.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms active breakouts.
- Antioxidant: Helps protect skin lipids from oxidation that can trigger inflammatory acne.
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract ActivePromising
A potent source of proanthocyanidins and vitamin C, providing antioxidant, antibacterial, and skin-nourishing benefits. Supports a clear, balanced complexion when paired with other actives.
- Antibacterial properties: Cranberry polyphenols help inhibit bacterial adhesion — a mechanism researched in both skincare and other fields.
- Rich in antioxidants: Supplies vitamin C and flavonoids to defend against environmental damage.
Allantoin + Bisabolol ActiveProven
A proven soothing duo. Allantoin promotes gentle cell turnover and wound healing, while bisabolol (from chamomile) delivers powerful anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory action — perfect for skin recovering from actives.
- Allantoin: Keratolytic and skin-softening properties support barrier repair and reduce flaking.
- Bisabolol: Clinically documented to reduce redness and sensitivity associated with acne treatments.
34 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Tapioca Starch, Cetearyl Olivate, Niacinamide, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Alcohol Denat., Sorbitan Olivate, Stearic Acid, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 60, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Maltodextrin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Fructooligosaccharides, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Leaf Cell Culture Extract, Totarol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after treatment serums to lock in moisture. Layers well under SPF and makeup. Use AM and PM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean, freshly toned skin. Gently pat dry — skin can be slightly damp for better absorption.
Apply Treatment First
If using acne treatments (mandelic serum, retinol, Acne Med), apply them first and allow to absorb for 1 minute.
Dispense a Dime to Nickel-Sized Amount
A small amount goes a long way. Warm between fingertips before applying.
Massage Onto Face & Neck
Apply using gentle upward motions across the entire face and neck, avoiding the immediate eye area.
Finish with SPF (Morning)
In the AM, always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect skin from UV damage.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You're acclimating to benzoyl peroxide or retinoids
- You want oil-free hydration that won't clog pores
- You need a fragrance-free, gentle daily moisturizer
- You're a teen or young adult struggling with breakouts
- You want a pregnancy-safe acne moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or mature skin needing rich hydration
- You're specifically managing fungal acne (Malassezia)
- You want a ceramide-heavy barrier-repair cream
- You have known sensitivity to denatured alcohol
- You prefer fragrance or a cushioning "rich" feel
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight, and sebum-regulating. Won't add shine or congestion to an already oily T-zone.
Balances well — hydrates dry cheeks while keeping the T-zone matte and clear.
Specifically formulated for active acne. Non-comedogenic and soothes irritation from drying treatments.
Fragrance- and dye-free with calming allantoin and bisabolol. Patch test due to low-dose alcohol denat.
Works well as a daily lightweight moisturizer, especially in warmer months or humid climates.
May be too lightweight for very dry skin. Consider layering with a heavier cream at night or choose a richer alternative.
Results timeline
3 MONTHSInstant Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels immediately softer and soothed. Texture absorbs quickly with a comfortable, non-greasy finish.
92% noticedReduced Irritation & Redness
Post-acne inflammation calms. Flaking from retinol or BPO treatments visibly decreases.
78% noticedBalanced Oil Production
Niacinamide and lilac stem cells kick in — T-zone shine is reduced, pores appear smaller, and skin looks more even.
71% noticedClearer, Calmer Complexion
Used within a full Face Reality acne protocol, users commonly report clearer skin and fading of post-inflammatory marks.
65% noticedRatings by platform
970+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Truly acne-safe and non-comedogenic
- Lightweight texture absorbs within seconds
- No greasy residue — matte, natural finish
- Calms redness from retinoids and benzoyl peroxide
- Fragrance-free and dye-free
- Professional-grade, dermatologist-trusted formula
- Works under SPF and makeup with no pilling
- Pregnancy-safe active profile
Criticized
- Small 2 oz / 59 ml size
- Price point is mid-to-premium
- Not ideal for very dry or mature skin
- Contains alcohol denat. (low dose, but a dealbreaker for some)
- Not fungal-acne safe due to esters and polysorbates
- Cannot be layered directly over Face Reality Acne Med
- Formula may shift in color over time (natural lilac extract)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic formula with 4% niacinamide plus ceramides. Lacks botanical actives like lilac stem cells and green tea, but delivers stronger barrier support at a fraction of the price.
Oil-free, non-comedogenic, and targeted at acne-prone skin with niacinamide and antioxidants. Very close positioning; slightly different botanical lineup and no lilac stem cells.
French-pharmacy option with Sebulyse technology for oil control and mattifying. More focused on shine control, less on soothing active-irritated skin.
Ultra-lightweight gel texture suitable for oily skin. Focuses on hyaluronic acid hydration without acne-specific actives — good hydrating complement but not a full replacement.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEFace Reality Clearderma
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the jar icon on the packaging for confirmation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed between uses.
Tube with flip-cap — hygienic and easy to dispense. 2 oz / 59 ml size.
Yes — under 100 ml and TSA-compliant for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — Clearderma Moisturizer is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The active ingredients — niacinamide, lilac stem cells, green tea, allantoin, and bisabolol — are all pregnancy-friendly. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
No — Clearderma is not fungal-acne safe. The formula contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, safflower oil, and polysorbates, all of which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you're actively managing fungal acne (characterized by uniform, itchy bumps across the forehead, chest, or back), look for strictly fatty-acid-free alternatives.
Absolutely. Clearderma pairs excellently with virtually all active ingredients — it's specifically designed to buffer and soothe skin that's being treated with retinoids, mandelic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or vitamin C. The only exception: do not layer it directly over Face Reality Acne Med (benzoyl peroxide), as this can reduce BPO penetration. Apply acne treatments first, let them dry, then follow with Clearderma — or use them at different times of day.
Clearderma is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's also a great fit for normal skin, especially during summer or in humid climates. Sensitive skin users typically tolerate it well thanks to the fragrance-free and dye-free formula. It may be too lightweight for very dry or mature skin — in that case, consider Face Reality's Cran-Peptide Cream or layering Clearderma under a richer night cream.
You'll feel immediate hydration and comfort from the first application. Noticeable reduction in irritation and redness typically occurs within 1-2 weeks. Oil regulation and pore-refining effects from niacinamide and lilac stem cells usually become visible at 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Face Reality reports that within a full acne protocol, most users see meaningful skin clarity improvements in 3-6 weeks.
Clearderma is a Step 5 moisturizer — apply it after cleansing, toning, any treatment serums (mandelic, retinol, etc.), and before sunscreen in the morning. Use it twice daily, AM and PM. For extra-dehydrated skin, you can layer a hydrating gel or essence underneath it. In the AM, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
No — Clearderma is non-comedogenic and has an estimated comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's been specifically formulated for acne-prone skin by Face Reality, a professional acne-focused brand. The formula is oil-free (aside from very small amounts of safflower seed oil), free of known pore-cloggers like coconut oil or isopropyl myristate, and acne specialists routinely use it on active breakouts without aggravating them.
Clearderma has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and always replace the cap securely after use. Note: due to the natural lilac stem cell extract, the product may shift slightly in color over its lifespan — this is normal and does not indicate spoilage. Discontinue use if you notice changes in smell or separation of the formula.
Verdict: Face Reality Clearderma is one of the most thoughtfully formulated moisturizers for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin on the market. It strikes a rare balance — oil-free and genuinely non-comedogenic, yet still hydrating enough to soothe skin recovering from retinoids, BPO, and chemical exfoliants. The active blend of niacinamide, lilac stem cells, green tea, totarol, and cranberry delivers real antioxidant and sebum-regulating benefits, while allantoin and bisabolol keep irritation at bay. Drawbacks: the 2 oz size feels small for the price, and the inclusion of alcohol denat. plus fatty esters means it's not suitable for fungal acne or highly alcohol-sensitive skin. Overall, an outstanding daily moisturizer for acne-prone skin that plays well with a full treatment routine.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|





