Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam
Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A plush, velvety-soft foaming cleanser designed for sensitive and very dry to dry combination skin. This non-irritating formula uses gentle sulfate-free surfactants derived from coconut, enriched with sucrose, sodium hyaluronate, and caffeine to cleanse without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier. Dermatologist-guided, allergy tested, and 100% fragrance free.
Ultra-Gentle Sulfate-Free Surfactants
Uses Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate and Lauramidopropyl Betaine — coconut-derived, mild cleansing agents that produce a rich foam without the harshness of SLS or SLES.
Texture & feel
SENSORYUltra-Gentle Sulfate-Free Surfactants
Uses Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate and Lauramidopropyl Betaine — coconut-derived, mild cleansing agents that produce a rich foam without the harshness of SLS or SLES.
Hydrating While Cleansing
Glycerin, sucrose, butylene glycol, and sodium hyaluronate work together to maintain skin hydration during the cleansing process, preventing that tight, stripped feeling.
Botanical Soothing Complex
Gentiana Lutea (Gentian) Root Extract and Algae Extract provide antioxidant protection and help calm sensitive, irritated skin during cleansing.
Caffeine-Infused Formula
Contains caffeine, a potent antioxidant that helps reduce puffiness and provides a de-stressing boost for tired-looking skin even in a rinse-off product.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA) at a very low, non-therapeutic concentration as the 10th ingredient. While topical salicylic acid at low levels in wash-off products is generally considered low risk, consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, which may be a potential trigger for malassezia. However, as a wash-off product with short skin contact time, risk is minimal. Also contains Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate (coconut-derived) which some sources flag. Most users with fungal acne report no issues with rinse-off cleansers.
Clinique has performed over 6 million allergy evaluations on their products. This cleanser is 100% fragrance free and formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions on sensitive skin.
Free from SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) and SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate). Uses gentle, coconut-derived surfactants that cleanse effectively without stripping the skin barrier.
No parabens, phthalates, or other commonly flagged preservatives. Uses phenoxyethanol as its primary preservative — widely considered safe and gentle at concentrations up to 1%.
Oil-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. No heavy oils or waxes that could clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA products. As a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, it pairs well with active-heavy routines without compromising the skin barrier.
Fragrance-free and gentle enough for most eczema and rosacea-prone skin. Patch test recommended for extremely reactive skin. Some users with very dry skin report occasional tightness.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5-10%Proven
A naturally occurring humectant that is also found in your skin. Glycerin draws moisture from the environment into the skin's outer layer and helps maintain the skin's protective barrier function.
- Function: Humectant and skin-identical moisturizer that prevents the cleanser from drying out skin
- Research: Extensively studied; shown to improve skin hydration, barrier recovery, and reduce transepidermal water loss
- Position: Listed 2nd — present at a meaningful concentration for hydration during cleansing
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate ~3-8%Proven
A coconut-derived, mild surfactant known for producing a rich, creamy lather while being significantly gentler than traditional sulfates. Biodegradable and effective across a wide pH range.
- Function: Primary cleansing agent — lifts dirt and oil with a soft, non-stripping foam
- Research: Classified as a mild anionic surfactant; studies show less irritation potential than SLS
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and taurine (an amino acid)
Sucrose ~1-3%Promising
Natural sugar (table sugar) used here as a humectant that helps maintain skin hydration during cleansing. Sucrose is hydrophilic, meaning it attracts and holds water molecules on the skin surface.
- Function: Humectant and skin-conditioning agent; helps the foam feel plush and cushiony
- Highlight: Clinique specifically features sucrose as a key formulation ingredient for this product
- Benefit: Can also act as a very mild exfoliant, helping to smooth skin texture gently
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid — a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Even in a wash-off product, it provides a hydrating boost that leaves skin feeling plumped.
- Function: Deep hydration humectant that prevents cleansing-induced dryness
- Research: Proven to improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines
- Note: Smaller molecular weight than hyaluronic acid, allowing better skin penetration
Salicylic Acid (BHA) <0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid used here at a very low, non-therapeutic concentration — primarily for its skin-conditioning and mild exfoliating properties rather than as an acne treatment.
- Function: Mild exfoliant and skin conditioner at this low concentration
- Research: At 0.5-2% it is an effective acne treatment; here it likely functions as a pH adjuster and gentle skin smoother
- Position: Listed 10th — concentration is well below active treatment levels
Caffeine <1%Promising
A natural antioxidant with vasoconstrictive properties. In skincare, caffeine helps reduce puffiness, calm redness, and protect skin cells from UV-induced damage even in short-contact formulas.
- Function: Antioxidant and de-puffing agent
- Research: Studies show caffeine can penetrate the skin barrier and provide antioxidant protection
- Benefit: Helps energize dull, tired-looking skin during morning cleansing
20 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Butylene Glycol, Sucrose, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Gentiana Lutea (Gentian) Root Extract, Algae Extract, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Coco PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caffeine, Caprylyl Glycol, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Citric Acid, Capryloyl Glycine, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in Clinique's 3-Step System. Follow with Clarifying Lotion 1.0 (for sensitive skin) and Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream. For double cleansing, use an oil-based remover first, then this foam as your second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Hands
Start with clean, damp hands. Use tepid (lukewarm) water — avoid hot water which can strip and irritate sensitive skin.
Pump & Lather
Press the pump dispenser 1-2 times to release foam into your palms. Gently lather between your hands to create a soft, cushiony foam.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your makeup-free face using gentle, circular motions. Avoid the eye area. Massage for 30-60 seconds to allow the mild surfactants to lift dirt and impurities.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with tepid water until all residue is removed. Pat skin dry with a clean, soft towel — do not rub. Follow immediately with the rest of your routine while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, very dry, or dry combination skin
- You want a fragrance-free, allergy-tested cleanser
- Other foaming cleansers leave your face feeling tight or stripped
- You need a gentle cleanser that pairs well with active treatments (retinol, AHA, BHA)
- You prefer a convenient pump dispenser that controls product usage
- You are recovering from skin procedures (peels, laser treatments)
- You want a trusted dermatologist-guided brand with decades of clinical testing
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a cleanser that removes heavy or waterproof makeup (use an oil cleanser first)
- You have very oily skin and prefer a deeper, more purifying cleanse
- You are looking for the most affordable option — this is a mid-to-premium priced cleanser
- You need a strictly fungal acne (malassezia) safe formula — contains potential triggers
- You want a large volume product — 125ml may run out quickly with twice-daily use
- You prefer cream or micellar water texture over foam
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for dry skin. Glycerin, sucrose, and hyaluronate prevent moisture loss during cleansing. Leaves skin feeling soft, not tight.
Allergy tested, 100% fragrance free, and non-irritating. Built for sensitive skin from the ground up. One of the gentlest foaming options available.
Works well for the dry-combination variant. Those with very oily T-zones may prefer a slightly deeper-cleansing option for their oilier areas.
May not provide enough oil control for very oily skin types. Formula is designed to be hydrating rather than mattifying. Consider a foaming gel instead.
Oil-free and low comedogenic rating (1/5). Contains trace salicylic acid. Good choice for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive and needs gentle cleansing.
Gentle enough for thinning, mature skin. Hydrating formula with hyaluronate and caffeine supports aging skin without stripping essential moisture.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft, and comfortable after the very first use. No tightness or dryness compared to harsher cleansers. The velvety foam provides a noticeably gentle cleansing experience.
90% noticedReduced Irritation & Tightness
Those transitioning from stripping cleansers notice decreased redness, tightness, and irritation. Skin begins to feel more balanced and less reactive to other products in the routine.
75% noticedImproved Skin Barrier
Consistent gentle cleansing allows the skin barrier to recover. Skin retains moisture better throughout the day, and other active products (serums, moisturizers) absorb more effectively.
65% noticedCalmer, Healthier Complexion
Long-term use contributes to an overall calmer, less reactive complexion. Sensitive skin users report fewer flare-ups, and dry skin users notice improved overall hydration levels.
60% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — does not irritate even the most sensitive skin
- 100% fragrance free and allergy tested by a dermatologist-guided brand
- Plush, velvety foam texture feels luxurious and pleasant to use
- Leaves skin feeling clean, soft, and comfortable — never tight or dry
- Convenient pump dispenser controls product usage and minimizes waste
- Pairs beautifully with active-heavy routines (retinol, acids) without over-stripping
- Great for post-procedure skin (chemical peels, laser treatments)
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula
Criticized
- Small bottle (125ml) for the price — runs out faster than expected
- Some users detect a mild chemical/clean scent despite being fragrance-free
- May not provide enough cleansing power for heavy makeup removal
- A few users with very dry skin still experienced some tightness
- Not effective enough for very oily skin types
- Higher price per ml compared to drugstore alternatives like CeraVe or Vanicream
- Rare reports of breakouts — individual results vary with any cleanser
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUltra-minimal ingredient list, free of dyes, fragrance, and common irritants. Non-foaming gel texture instead of foam. Endorsed by the National Eczema Association. Less luxurious texture but equally gentle and better value per ml.
Cream-to-lather texture (non-foaming). Contains 3 essential ceramides plus hyaluronic acid for superior barrier repair. Larger 16oz bottle available. Does not foam like the Clinique but offers more barrier-support ingredients.
Non-foaming, cream-gel texture with prebiotic thermal water, niacinamide, and ceramide-3. More barrier-repair focused. Better makeup removal but lacks the plush foam experience. Contains no salicylic acid.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. No refrigeration needed.
Pump dispenser bottle — hygienic, easy to use, and helps control product dosage. No dipping fingers into the product.
Yes — 125ml / 4.2 fl oz is over the 100ml/3.4oz carry-on limit. Consider decanting into a travel container, or purchase from duty-free.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally flagged during pregnancy. However, the concentration here is very low (listed as the 10th ingredient, estimated at less than 0.5%), and it is a wash-off product with minimal skin contact time. Many dermatologists consider low-concentration salicylic acid in rinse-off products to be low risk, but to be safe, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using this product during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you prefer a fully salicylic acid-free cleanser, consider CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser as alternatives.
This cleanser contains PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, which some fungal acne resources flag as a potential malassezia trigger. Additionally, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is coconut-derived, which can also be a concern for some. However, since this is a wash-off product with very short skin contact time, the risk is significantly lower than with leave-on products. Most people with fungal acne tolerate rinse-off cleansers well. If you have severe fungal acne and want to be extra cautious, Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a more widely recommended fungal acne-safe option.
Yes, absolutely. This cleanser is an excellent companion for active-heavy routines. Because it is so gentle and non-stripping, it will not over-sensitize your skin before applying potent actives like retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acid (AHA), or salicylic acid (BHA). In fact, using a gentle cleanser like this is often recommended by dermatologists when incorporating powerful active ingredients to avoid compromising the skin barrier. The trace amount of salicylic acid in this cleanser is not high enough to cause any negative interactions.
This cleanser is specifically formulated for very dry to dry combination and sensitive skin types. It excels for people who find most foaming cleansers too harsh or stripping. It is also excellent for mature skin, post-procedure skin (after chemical peels or laser treatments), and those with rosacea or eczema who need an ultra-gentle cleansing option. For oily skin types, it may not provide sufficient oil control — consider Clinique's All About Clean Liquid Facial Soap for oily skin types instead.
You will notice the gentle, comfortable cleansing experience from your very first use — skin should feel clean and soft without tightness. Over the first 1-2 weeks, you may notice reduced redness and irritation, especially if you are transitioning from a harsher cleanser. Within 3-4 weeks of consistent use, your skin barrier should feel stronger and more resilient. Remember: a cleanser's main job is to cleanse gently without causing harm. The biggest visible improvements come from the serums and treatments that follow.
This cleanser goes at the very beginning of your routine — Step 1 (or Step 2 if you double-cleanse with an oil-based remover first). Use it twice daily, morning and night. After cleansing, follow with your toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). In Clinique's 3-Step System, it replaces the traditional Liquid Facial Soap as Step 1, followed by Clarifying Lotion 1.0 (Step 2) and Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream (Step 3).
No, this cleanser has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is oil-free, contains no heavy waxes or butters, and uses gentle, non-pore-clogging surfactants. It is unlikely to clog pores or cause acne for the vast majority of users. However, as with any skincare product, individual reactions can vary — a small number of users have reported breakouts, which may be due to individual sensitivities rather than comedogenic ingredients. Patch testing is always recommended when trying any new product.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. This means the product should be used within 12 months of first opening. The 125ml / 4.2 fl oz bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks with twice-daily use (1-2 pumps per wash), so you will likely use it up well before the expiration period. The pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene by preventing contamination from fingers. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight for best preservation.
Verdict: Clinique Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam is a well-formulated, trustworthy cleanser that delivers exactly what it promises — a gentle, non-irritating cleanse for sensitive and dry skin types. Its sulfate-free, fragrance-free formula with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and sucrose makes it an excellent choice for anyone whose skin reacts poorly to harsher cleansers. The plush pump-foam texture feels more luxurious than most drugstore alternatives.The main drawback is value — at $28 for 125ml, it is significantly more expensive per ounce than equally effective competitors like CeraVe ($1/oz) and Vanicream ($1.19/oz). If you value the foam texture, trusted brand heritage, and allergy-tested formulation, it is worth the premium. If budget matters most, the drugstore alternatives provide comparable gentle cleansing at a fraction of the cost.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|





