Cloudberry Cleansing Foaming Gel
Cloudberry Cleansing Foaming Gel
Product Description
Celenes by Sweden Cloudberry Cleansing Foaming Gel is a gentle, sulfate-free daily face wash powered by Nordic cloudberry extract. It lifts away dirt, oil and pollution without stripping the skin, while a blend of vitamin E, green tea, zinc and Aquaxyl humectants keeps the skin barrier calm and comfortable. Vegan, fragrance-free and fungal-acne friendly, it suits sensitive, dry and combination skin alike.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Nordic Cloudberry Antioxidants
Arctic cloudberry (Rubus Chamaemorus) is naturally rich in vitamin C, malic acid and beta-carotene to help shield skin from environmental stress.
Gentle Surfactant System
Mild, sulfate-free cleansers (isethionate, coco-glucoside, amphoacetate) remove oil and grime without disrupting the moisture barrier.
Aquaxyl Hydration Trio
Anhydroxylitol, xylitol and xylitylglucoside work together to hold water in the skin and reduce that post-wash tight feeling.
Zinc & Green Tea Support
Zinc gluconate helps control oil and calm blemishes, while green tea extract adds antioxidant, soothing benefits for stressed skin.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters. The only acid is a trace of citric acid used purely for pH balance.
Rated fungal-acne safe by ingredient checkers. It is a rinse-off product, so the brief contact time further lowers any risk.
As a first-step cleanser it pairs well with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHA/BHA and any serum or moisturizer that follows.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, sulfate-free and free of the most common allergens, with calming chamomile and cucumber extracts.
One oleic-acid-derived emollient (glyceryl oleate) sits low on the list. Strict fungal-acne sufferers may prefer to patch test first.
Capryloyl glycine and botanical extracts are well tolerated by most, but very reactive skin should always patch test a new cleanser.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Cloudberry Extract Hero Botanical Proven
Rubus Chamaemorus (Arctic cloudberry) fruit extract is the signature ingredient. This rare Nordic berry is packed with antioxidants that defend skin against free-radical damage during cleansing.
- Source: Cloudberries are naturally rich in vitamin C, citric acid, malic acid and beta-carotene.
- Benefit: Antioxidant support helps protect against environmental stress and dullness.
β‘ Zinc Gluconate ~0.5-1% Proven
A skin-conditioning zinc salt with antibacterial and wound-healing properties, particularly useful for oily and blemish-prone skin.
- Source: Zinc gluconate is the zinc salt of the PHA gluconic acid, a gentle cousin of AHAs.
- Benefit: Especially effective at calming inflammatory acne and helping regulate oil.
π‘οΈ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) ~0.1-1% Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution, and helps stabilize the rest of the formula.
- Source: Studies show topical vitamin E boosts the skin's own UV-defense enzymes.
- Benefit: Regular use can improve the skin's water-binding capacity over 2-4 weeks.
π΅ Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Antioxidant Proven
One of the most researched plant extracts in skincare, rich in catechins like EGCG that protect skin and reduce visible redness.
- Source: A 2009 study found a 2% green tea preparation effective for mild-to-moderate acne.
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory and mildly antimicrobial, ideal in a daily cleanser.
π§ Glycerin + Aquaxyl Complex Humectants Proven
Glycerin plus the anhydroxylitol / xylitol / xylitylglucoside trio (Aquaxyl) pull and hold water in the skin so it does not feel tight after washing.
- Source: Xylitol has been shown to reduce transepidermal water loss and reinforce the barrier.
- Benefit: Aquaxyl is marketed for a 3-D hydration and anti-dehydration shield effect.
πΌ Chamomile & Cucumber Soothing Promising
Chamomilla Recutita flower extract and cucumber seed extract add calming, antioxidant botanicals that help offset any cleansing-related irritation.
- Source: Chamomile is rich in soothing compounds such as bisabolol with anti-inflammatory activity.
- Benefit: Cucumber seed extract supplies extra vitamin E for a softening, soothing finish.
25 ingredients
Water, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Glycerin, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Steareth-10, Propanediol, Phenethyl Alcohol, Undecyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Hexylene Glycol, Capryloyl Glycine, Xylitylglucoside, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Rubus Chamaemorus Fruit Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Seed Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your first step, morning and night. In the evening it works beautifully as the second cleanse after an oil cleanser or micellar water to remove sunscreen and makeup.
π How to Use
Dampen Skin
Wet your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can leave skin feeling tight.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense a 5-cent-sized amount into your palm and warm it slightly between your hands.
Massage Gently
Work over the face in light circular motions for 20-30 seconds, avoiding the eye area.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry. Follow with toner, serum and moisturizer.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, dry or combination skin that reacts to harsh foaming washes
- You want a fragrance-free, sulfate-free daily cleanser
- You like antioxidant botanicals (cloudberry, green tea, chamomile)
- You need a fungal-acne and pregnancy-friendly option
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free and reef-safe formulas
β Consider alternatives if:
- You love a rich, dense, squeaky-clean foam (this one is low-lather)
- You want active exfoliation in your cleanser (no meaningful AHA/BHA here)
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal in one step
- You are highly strict about every oleic-acid derivative for fungal acne
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Zinc helps control oil, though the low-foam texture may feel less "deep clean" than a classic gel wash.
Humectants and re-fatting emollients leave skin soft rather than tight after rinsing.
Balances cleansing and comfort, removing shine on the T-zone without drying drier cheeks.
Fragrance-free and free of common allergens, with calming chamomile and cucumber.
Low comedogenic risk and zinc support; the single oleic-derived emollient is the only minor caveat.
π Results Timeline
Comfortable Clean
Skin feels clean and refreshed immediately, without the tight, squeaky after-feel of stronger foaming washes.
Most users notice from first useCalmer, Softer Skin
The barrier-friendly surfactants and humectants help skin feel softer and less reactive day to day.
Reported within 1-2 weeksMore Balanced Complexion
With consistent use, oily areas feel more balanced and overall tone looks fresher thanks to antioxidant support.
Best results with daily useβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Gentle, non-stripping cleanse that leaves skin refreshed, not tight
- Fragrance-free, sulfate-free and free of common allergens
- Thoughtful extras: cloudberry, green tea, zinc, vitamin E, chamomile
- Vegan, cruelty-free and reef-safe
- Good value for a generous 250ml bottle
β Criticized
- Low foam β disappointing for fans of a rich lather
- Not a strong single-step makeup remover
- One oleic-derived emollient may concern strict fungal-acne users
- Niche brand with limited reviews and patchy availability
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
A non-foaming, fragrance-free cream cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Even gentler and more hydrating, but lacks the cloudberry and antioxidant botanicals.
A soothing foaming gel built for sensitive, reactive skin. Comparable gentle cleansing experience, though without the Nordic berry and zinc story.
A fragrance-free foaming cleanser for sensitive skin with niacinamide. Slightly more foam and a bigger clinical pedigree, but fewer botanical antioxidants.
π Comparison with Competitors
Celenes Cloudberry Foaming Gel (Featured)
~$17CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
~$16Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant
~$15La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming
~$17π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the pump closed.
250ml plastic bottle with a pump dispenser for controlled, hygienic use.
Full 250ml size exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit; decant for hand luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters that are usually flagged during pregnancy. The only acid present is a trace amount of citric acid used to balance pH. As always, check with your doctor about your full routine if you have any concerns.
It is rated fungal-acne safe by ingredient checkers, and as a rinse-off cleanser the short contact time lowers risk further. The one thing to note is glyceryl oleate, an oleic-acid-derived emollient sitting low on the list. Most people tolerate it fine in a wash-off product, but very strict fungal-acne sufferers may wish to patch test.
Yes. As a gentle first-step cleanser it pairs with all of these. Simply wash with it first, then apply your actives (vitamin C in the morning, retinol or AHA/BHA at night) onto clean, dry skin. It does not contain its own strong actives that would conflict.
It performs best on sensitive, dry and combination skin thanks to its barrier-friendly, fragrance-free formula and humectant blend. Oily and acne-prone skin can also use it, though those who love an intense squeaky-clean foam may prefer a stronger gel wash.
The comfortable, non-stripping clean is noticeable from the first wash. Softer, calmer skin tends to show within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, and antioxidant and oil-balancing benefits build over about four weeks of daily use.
It is your first step, used morning and night. In the evening it also works well as the second cleanse after an oil cleanser or micellar water to fully remove sunscreen and makeup. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer and (in the morning) sunscreen.
Low risk. We rate it about 1 out of 5. Although it contains a couple of ingredients with higher comedogenic scores in leave-on use, this is a rinse-off cleanser, so they have minimal contact time and are washed away rather than sitting in pores.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the pump closed between uses to maintain freshness.
Verdict: Celenes by Sweden's Cloudberry Cleansing Foaming Gel is a gentle, barrier-respecting daily cleanser that punches above its price. The Nordic cloudberry, green tea, zinc and vitamin E lineup adds real antioxidant value on top of a clean, fragrance-free, vegan and fungal-acne-friendly base, making it a strong pick for sensitive, dry and combination skin. The main trade-offs are its soft, low-foam texture (a letdown if you crave a rich lather), its modest makeup-removing power, and limited availability as a niche brand. If you want a kind, no-drama cleanser with a Scandinavian twist, it's an easy recommendation.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
Cleansing, Surfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|