Dermalogy Real Fresh Foam
Dermalogy Real Fresh Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, hydrating foam cleanser infused with real fermented green tea leaves and 99 naturally-derived ingredients. Dispensed as a rich, creamy foam straight from the pump, it lifts away impurities, makeup, and excess sebum without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier — leaving your complexion soothed, refreshed, and balanced.
Real Green Tea Infusion
Contains 62% green tea leaf water as the first ingredient, plus actual green tea leaves sealed at the bottom of the bottle for continuous infusion of catechins and polyphenols.
Texture & feel
SENSORYReal Green Tea Infusion
Contains 62% green tea leaf water as the first ingredient, plus actual green tea leaves sealed at the bottom of the bottle for continuous infusion of catechins and polyphenols.
Pre-Foamed Pump Design
Dispenses as a luxurious, pillowy foam directly from the pump — no need to manually lather. Reduces friction on the skin during cleansing for a gentler experience.
99 Natural-Origin Ingredients
A rich botanical formula including niacinamide, allantoin, sodium hyaluronate, panthenol, and a wide array of fruit and plant extracts for multi-benefit cleansing.
7 Clinical Tests Completed
Clinically verified for effective skin improvement. Passed hypoallergenic and non-irritation tests — the first foam cleanser to receive an official "unstimulated" certification.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, and chemical UV absorbers. No known teratogenic ingredients. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains lauric acid, myristic acid, and olive oil PEG-7 esters — fatty acids and esters that can feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne.
As a wash-off product, comedogenic risk is minimal. Formula does not contain heavy pore-clogging oils or waxes. Most users report no breakout issues.
Uses amino acid-based potassium cocoyl glycinate and cocamidopropyl betaine instead of harsh SLS/SLES. Gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin.
Listed near the end of the ingredient list suggesting a low concentration, but those with fragrance sensitivities or highly reactive skin should patch test first.
The pH has been measured around 8, which is higher than the ideal skin pH of 4.5–5.5. This may cause mild tightness on very dry or sensitive skin. Follow with a low-pH toner to rebalance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGreen Tea Water (Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water) 62%Proven
The star ingredient and first on the INCI list. Green tea water is rich in catechins (especially EGCG), a powerful class of polyphenolic antioxidants that protect skin from free radical damage, soothe inflammation, and help control excess sebum production.
- Antioxidant: EGCG neutralizes UV-induced free radicals and reduces oxidative stress on skin cells.
- Anti-inflammatory: Catechins modulate inflammatory pathways, helping to calm redness and irritation.
- Sebum control: Green tea polyphenols have been shown to reduce sebum secretion rates in clinical studies.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) <1%Proven
A multi-tasking powerhouse ingredient with extensive clinical evidence. Even at lower concentrations in a cleanser, niacinamide can help brighten skin tone and support the moisture barrier during the cleansing step.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, gradually reducing hyperpigmentation.
- Barrier support: Stimulates ceramide and fatty acid synthesis in the skin's lipid barrier.
- Anti-aging: Proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles at concentrations of 4–5% in leave-on products.
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid — a skin-identical molecule that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It has a smaller molecular size than HA, allowing for better skin penetration.
- Hydration: Forms a moisture-binding film on the skin even in a wash-off formula, reducing post-cleanse tightness.
- Barrier function: Helps maintain the skin's natural hydration levels during cleansing.
Allantoin <1%Proven
A well-established soothing and skin-conditioning agent naturally found in comfrey root. Renowned for its ability to calm irritation and promote skin renewal.
- Soothing: Reduces redness and irritation, making the cleanser gentler on compromised skin.
- Cell renewal: Promotes keratinocyte proliferation and helps smooth rough, flaky skin texture.
Potassium Cocoyl GlycinatePromising
An amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut oil and glycine. Considered one of the mildest cleansing agents available — it foams beautifully while being extremely gentle on the skin barrier.
- Mild cleansing: Rated as "extremely mild" with outstanding foamability. Produces creamy, dense foam.
- Synergy: Helps reduce the harshness of other surfactants in the formula, improving overall skin feel.
99 ingredients
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Methylglucamine, Lauric Acid, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Dipropylene Glycol, Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, C12-14 Pareth-12, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Aristotelia Chilensis Fruit Extract, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Fruit Extract, Chrysanthemum Sibiricum Extract, Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Donkey Milk, Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Extract, Hibiscus Esculentus Fruit Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, Malt Extract, Passiflora Edulis Fruit Extract, Averrhoa Carambola Fruit Extract, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Forsythia Suspensa Fruit Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Acorus Calamus Root Extract, Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Angelica Gigas Root Extract, Red Ginseng Extract, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Schizandra Chinensis Fruit Extract, Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract, Crataegus Pinnatifida Fruit Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Saururus Chinensis Leaf/Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Niacinamide, Citric Acid, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Acetyl Glucosamine, Trehalose, Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract, Plankton Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Water, Gypsophila Paniculata Root Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Gentiana Lutea Root Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Water, Fragrance
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step of a double-cleanse (after an oil or balm cleanser), or as a standalone morning cleanser. Due to the higher pH, follow with a low-pH toner or essence for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Ensure hands are also wet before dispensing the product.
Pump the Foam
Press the pump 2–3 times to dispense a generous amount of creamy foam onto your palm. No need to manually lather — the foam comes out ready to use.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face and massage in gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds, focusing on the T-zone, nose, and chin areas.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow immediately with toner and the rest of your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want a gentle second-step cleanser for double cleansing
- You love green tea skincare and botanical-rich formulas
- You prefer foam cleansers that come pre-foamed from the pump
- You want a cleanser free of sulfates, parabens, and mineral oil
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains lauric acid and fatty esters)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (some users report tightness)
- You need a strictly fragrance-free product
- You prefer a low-pH cleanser (this one is around pH 8)
- You want a cleanser that deeply removes heavy makeup on its own
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGreen tea catechins help control sebum. The rich foam cleanses oily areas thoroughly without over-stripping. Ideal as a second-step cleanser for oily skin types.
Balances well between cleansing the oily T-zone and hydrating drier cheek areas. The hydrating ingredients help prevent post-wash tightness on dry patches.
Some dry skin users report tightness after use due to the higher pH. If you use it, follow immediately with hydrating toner and a rich moisturizer. Best for warmer months.
Clinically tested as hypoallergenic and non-irritating. However, contains fragrance, so patch test first. Many sensitive skin users report soothing results.
Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm acne. Low comedogenic risk as a wash-off product. Not suitable if acne is fungal in origin (malassezia).
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Clean & Fresh Feel
Skin feels noticeably clean and refreshed after the first use. The rich foam is satisfying to use and rinses away cleanly. Mild green tea scent is soothing during cleansing.
95% noticedReduced Oiliness & Calmer Skin
Oily and combination skin users notice better oil control throughout the day. Existing blemishes begin to calm down. Skin feels less congested, especially when used as part of a double-cleanse routine.
75% noticedImproved Skin Texture & Clarity
Pores appear less visible with consistent use. Skin texture smooths out as the gentle cleansing formula prevents buildup. Some users report brighter, more even-toned complexion.
60% noticedLong-Term Skin Balance
Consistent use helps maintain balanced, clear skin. The antioxidant benefits of green tea contribute to a healthier-looking complexion over time. Best results when paired with a complete K-beauty routine.
50% noticedRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Luxurious, pillowy foam dispensed directly from the pump — no manual lathering needed
- Real green tea leaves visible at the bottom of the bottle for continuous infusion
- Gentle enough for daily use; clinically tested as hypoallergenic and non-irritating
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free — clean formula with 99 natural-origin ingredients
- Effectively removes light makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and excess sebum
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated, not stripped or squeaky
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Higher pH (~8) may cause tightness for dry or compromised skin barriers
- Not fungal acne safe due to lauric acid and fatty esters
- Contains fragrance (low on INCI list but present)
- Too gentle for removing heavy or waterproof makeup — needs an oil cleanser first
- Some users with oily skin find it too mild for deep cleansing
- 160g bottle may not last long if you use 3+ pumps per wash
- Green tea leaves at the bottom are purely aesthetic — limited additional benefit
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso green tea-based from a Korean brand. Tube format instead of pump foam. Similar gentle cleansing but lacks the extensive 99-ingredient botanical blend and pre-foamed pump.
Tea tree oil-based gel cleanser with a much lower pH (around 5). Better for acne-prone skin and has BHA for mild exfoliation. Lacks the rich foam and green tea antioxidant profile.
Another gentle Korean foam cleanser with amino acid surfactants. More hydrating for dry skin but lacks the green tea antioxidant focus. Lower pH and fragrance-free formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDENeogen Real Fresh Foam Green Tea
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep upright to preserve the green tea leaves at the bottom of the bottle.
Clear plastic bottle with foam pump dispenser. Real green tea leaves sealed in a mesh compartment at the bottom of the bottle.
At 160g (5.6 fl oz), it exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into a smaller container for travel, or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleanser does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is sulfate-free and uses gentle amino acid-based surfactants. However, it does contain a small amount of fragrance, so if you're extremely cautious, consult your dermatologist.
No. This cleanser contains lauric acid (C12 fatty acid), myristic acid (C14 fatty acid), and olive oil PEG-7 esters — all of which can feed the malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative like the COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser instead.
Yes. As a wash-off cleanser, it won't interfere with active ingredients in your leave-on products. You can safely use it before applying retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA/BHA treatments. Just make sure to wait until your skin is fully dry before applying acids or retinol. If you're using strong actives, the gentle formula is actually a good pairing since it won't further stress your skin barrier.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The green tea catechins help control sebum and soothe inflammation. It works well for normal skin too. However, those with very dry or dehydrated skin may find it slightly drying due to the higher pH (~8). Sensitive skin users generally tolerate it well thanks to the amino acid surfactants, but should patch test due to the fragrance content.
You'll notice cleaner, softer, and more refreshed skin from the very first use. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, most users notice improved oil control and calmer blemishes. For visible improvements in skin texture and brightness, expect to use it daily for 3–4 weeks. A cleanser is a foundational step — dramatic results come from your full routine working together.
Use it as the second step of a double-cleanse routine — after an oil cleanser or cleansing balm to remove makeup and sunscreen. In the morning, it can be used as a standalone cleanser on bare skin. Follow with toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Due to its higher pH, following up with a low-pH toner is recommended to help rebalance your skin.
The comedogenic rating is 1/5 (very low). As a wash-off product that stays on your skin for less than a minute, the risk of pore clogging is minimal. The formula does not contain heavy comedogenic oils or waxes. Most users, including those who are acne-prone, report no breakout issues from this cleanser.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 160g bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use (2–3 pumps per session). Store in a cool, dry place and keep the bottle upright to preserve the green tea leaf infusion at the bottom. If the product changes color, smell, or consistency, discontinue use even if it's within the 12-month window.
Verdict: The Neogen Dermalogy Real Fresh Foam Green Tea is a solid K-beauty foam cleanser that delivers a genuinely enjoyable cleansing experience. The 62% green tea water base, amino acid surfactants, and botanical-rich formula make it a thoughtful product for oily and combination skin. The pre-foamed pump design is a standout feature that makes it easy and pleasant to use daily. However, the higher pH (~8) and the presence of fragrance keep it from being a universal recommendation. It's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers, and very dry skin types should proceed with caution. For the right skin type, it's a beautifully formulated, gentle cleanser that leaves skin feeling fresh and balanced — especially as the second step of a double-cleanse 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Vaccinium Angustifolium Fruit Extract
Skin Protecting, Soothing
|
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Methylglucamine
Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauric Acid
Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|




