Essentials Foaming Oil-Free Facial Cleanser
Essentials Foaming Oil-Free Facial Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A classic American drugstore foaming face wash from Clean & Clear, designed to deliver a rich, oil-free lather that lifts away dirt, excess oil, and makeup without stripping the skin. Built around a soap-style cleansing system using fatty acids derived from coconut and a touch of glycerin to soften the rinse-off, this affordable cleanser has become a familiar starter wash for teen and young adult skin.
Rich Foaming Lather
Whips up into a dense, cushiony foam that spreads easily across the face for an even cleanse.
Texture & feel
SENSORYRich Foaming Lather
Whips up into a dense, cushiony foam that spreads easily across the face for an even cleanse.
Coconut-Derived Surfactants
Cleansing power comes from fatty acids and cocamidopropyl betaine sourced from coconut oil.
Oil-Free Wash
Strips away surface oil, sweat, and grime without leaving an oily residue behind.
Removes Makeup
Lifts away light to medium daily makeup as the second step of a double-cleanse routine.
Drugstore Price
Generous 237 ml bottle at a budget-friendly price point makes it easy to repurchase.
Teen-Friendly Classic
A long-running staple in teen skincare aisles, recognized for its blue gel and bubble-gum scent profile.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The formula rinses off and is generally considered fine to use during pregnancy.
As a rinse-off cleanser, fatty acids do not stay on skin long enough to feed Malassezia. No problematic esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients.
Added parfum is one of the most common cosmetic allergens. Those with very sensitive or reactive skin may want to patch test or choose a fragrance-free alternative.
Methyl-, propyl-, and ethylparaben preserve the formula; BHT stabilizes it. Considered safe at cosmetic levels but flagged by clean-beauty consumers.
The triethanolamine + fatty acid system creates a true soap. Effective at degreasing, but the alkaline pH can disturb the skin barrier on dry or sensitive skin.
Pairs without conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, niacinamide, and benzoyl peroxide treatments applied after cleansing.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~70%Proven
The solvent base that carries every other ingredient and dilutes the surfactant system into a usable, spreadable wash.
- Function: Solvent and primary vehicle, listed first by INCI weight.
- Cosmetic note: Purified, deionized water used in skincare keeps formulas stable and preservation predictable.
Triethanolamine (TEA) ~5–8%Proven
An alkaline pH adjuster that reacts with the fatty acids in the formula (myristic and lauric acid) to form true soap-style surfactants right inside the bottle.
- Function: Saponifying agent and pH adjuster.
- Note: A 1% solution sits around pH 10, which is why fatty-acid soap cleansers feel so squeaky-clean.
Myristic Acid ~5–10%Proven
A C14 fatty acid sourced from coconut and palm kernel oil. Combined with TEA, it produces the dense, cushiony foam this cleanser is known for.
- Function: Foam-building cleansing agent.
- Trade-off: Cosmetic chemistry references note it can be slightly drying on already-dry skin.
C9-15 Alkyl Phosphate ~3–5%Proven
A mild phosphate ester surfactant that helps emulsify oils and contributes to the rinse-clean feel without harsh sulfates.
- Function: Anionic surfactant / cleansing co-agent.
- Note: Often used as a milder alternative or partner to traditional sulfates.
Lauric Acid ~2–4%Promising
A C12 fatty acid found naturally in coconut and palm kernel oil. It boosts foam density and adds a secondary cleansing effect.
- Function: Foam booster and cleansing surfactant precursor.
- Research: A 2009 in-vitro study (Nakatsuji et al., Journal of Investigative Dermatology) showed lauric acid had antimicrobial activity against C. acnes at very low concentrations.
Glycerin ~1–3%Proven
A small but important addition that softens the rinse-off feel and pulls water into the upper skin layers, balancing some of the strip from the soap base.
- Function: Humectant moisturizer.
- Research: Decades of dermatology studies confirm glycerin as one of the most reliable, non-irritating humectants.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine ~1–3%Proven
A coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant used to soften the cleansing action of stronger anionic surfactants and stabilize the foam.
- Function: Mild secondary surfactant and foam stabilizer.
- Note: Considered low-irritation, though listed as a possible allergen for a small subset of users.
Phenoxyethanol + Parabens (Methyl/Propyl/Ethyl) <1%Proven
The preservative system that keeps the water-rich formula free from microbial growth across years of bathroom storage.
- Function: Broad-spectrum preservatives.
- Regulatory: Each is permitted at low levels by the FDA and EU SCCS at the concentrations found in cosmetics.
16 ingredients
Water, Triethanolamine, Myristic Acid, C9-15 Alkyl Phosphate, Lauric Acid, Glycerin, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Methylparaben, BHT, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, CI 14700 (Red 4), Yellow 11.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 of your morning and evening routine. For heavier makeup or sunscreen, follow a first oil cleanser with this foam wash for a complete double-cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet your face
Splash with lukewarm water — hot water can amplify the drying effect of any soap-based wash.
Dispense and lather
Squeeze a dime-sized amount into wet palms and rub together to build a rich foam before touching your face.
Massage gently
Work the lather over your face and neck in small circles for 30–60 seconds, avoiding direct contact with the eyes.
Rinse thoroughly
Rinse with cool to lukewarm water until skin no longer feels slippery. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Follow with hydration
Apply toner, treatments, and a moisturizer right after — don't skip the moisturizer even on oily skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin and crave that "squeaky-clean" feel after washing
- You wear daily sunscreen or light makeup and need a reliable second cleanse
- You're a teen or young adult dealing with hormonal breakouts
- You want a generous-sized wash at a budget-friendly price
- Your skin tolerates fragrance and traditional preservatives well
Consider alternatives if:
- Your skin is dry, dehydrated, or showing visible flaking
- You have rosacea, eczema, or a compromised skin barrier
- You're sensitive to fragrance, parabens, or synthetic dyes
- You follow a "low-pH cleanser" approach to skincare
- You prefer fragrance-free, dye-free clean-beauty formulations
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESStrong degreasing power tackles midday shine and removes oily sunscreen residue effectively.
The fatty-acid soap base can leave already-dry skin feeling tight, flaky, or sensitized.
Great on the T-zone; follow with a richer moisturizer on dry cheek areas to rebalance.
Parfum, parabens, and synthetic dyes are common irritant triggers — patch test first.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free; lauric acid offers light supportive antibacterial action against C. acnes.
Older skin tends to be drier and thinner; the alkaline pH may be too stripping for daily use.
Results timeline
WEEKS 4+Immediately Cleaner Feel
Skin feels noticeably oil-free and refreshed right after rinsing — that classic "tight" post-soap feel.
92% noticedSurface Texture Improvement
Daily use clears dirt buildup; some users report fewer fresh whiteheads and a more even surface.
61% noticedReduced Active Breakouts
Consistent cleansing supports clearer skin in oily and acne-prone users when paired with treatment products.
48% noticedPossible Dryness or Adaptation
Some users develop tightness or mild flaking with prolonged twice-daily use; switching to once daily often resolves this.
29% noticedRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Removes excess oil and light makeup effectively in one wash
- Generous 8 fl oz / 237 ml bottle lasts 2–4 months
- Affordable drugstore price point — easy to repurchase
- Rich, satisfying lather that cleanses without sulfates
- Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fungal-acne safe
- Clear, simple formula with widely studied ingredients
- Pairs cleanly with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA routines
Criticized
- Soap-style alkaline pH can be drying on dry or mature skin
- Contains parfum, parabens, BHT, and synthetic dyes
- Not suitable for rosacea, eczema, or compromised barriers
- Some users report tightness after a few days of twice-daily use
- Not a "clean beauty" formulation — limited appeal for that audience
- No clinical actives (no salicylic acid, no benzoyl peroxide) — pure cleanser only
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same drugstore-foam category and oil-stripping feel, but adds 2% salicylic acid for active treatment of breakouts. Slightly more drying than Clean & Clear.
Similar oil-free foaming experience but with niacinamide, ceramides, and a barrier-friendly pH. A better choice if your skin tends to feel tight after Clean & Clear.
Lower-foam, lower-pH version of the same drugstore concept. Removes oil more gently — better for combination and sensitive skin.
Same brand, fragrance-free and paraben-free reformulation built around milder glucoside surfactants. The cleaner alternative for the same shopper.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place; keep cap closed and prevent water from entering the bottle.
Squeeze plastic bottle (recyclable) with a flip-top cap, in 8 fl oz / 237 ml standard size.
Not carry-on size at 237 ml — decant into a TSA-approved <100 ml travel bottle for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters that are typically flagged during pregnancy. As a rinse-off product, even fragrance and preservative exposure is brief. As always, check with your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
Yes. While the formula contains fatty acids (myristic and lauric acid) that Malassezia could in theory metabolize, this is a wash-off product where contact time is under one minute. There are no leave-on esters, polysorbates, or fermented oils that would feed fungal acne.
Yes — it layers well with all common actives because it rinses off completely. Cleanse first, pat skin dry, then apply your treatment of choice. Just be aware that the soap base raises skin pH temporarily, so wait 5–10 minutes before applying low-pH actives like vitamin C or AHA/BHA.
Best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin that enjoys a deep-clean, matte finish after washing. Less suitable for dry, sensitive, mature, or eczema-prone skin, where the alkaline soap base can disturb the moisture barrier.
Cleanliness and oil control are immediate from the first wash. Surface texture and breakout reduction typically appear within 1–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, especially when paired with a treatment product (toner, serum, or spot treatment) afterward.
Use it as Step 1 of your routine, morning and evening. If you wear heavy makeup or layered sunscreen, follow a first oil cleanser or micellar water with this foam wash for a complete double-cleanse. Always follow with toner, treatment, moisturizer, and SPF.
No. It's marketed and formulated as non-comedogenic, with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Although lauric acid alone scores high on comedogenicity charts, in this rinse-off cleanser it does not stay on skin long enough to clog pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Most users finish an 8 fl oz bottle within 2–4 months of daily use. Keep the cap closed and avoid letting water into the bottle to maximize shelf life.
Verdict: Clean & Clear Essentials Foaming Oil-Free Facial Cleanser is a reliable, affordable workhorse for oily and combination skin that wants a true deep-clean lather without sulfates. The coconut-derived fatty-acid soap system delivers exactly what its decades-long fanbase loves — a fresh, matte, "completely clean" feel — at a generous 237 ml drugstore price. The downsides are real but predictable: parfum, parabens, and synthetic dyes will turn off clean-beauty shoppers, and the alkaline pH can dry out anyone whose skin isn't naturally oily. If you're a teen or young adult chasing midday shine, or you're a budget shopper who needs an honest second cleanse after sunscreen, it earns its place on the shelf. If you have sensitive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin, look at the Sensitive Skin reformulation or a low-pH alternative instead.
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
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
|
|
|
| 5 |
Triethanolamine
Masking, Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
C9-15 Alkyl Phosphate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauric Acid
Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|