Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, soap-free foaming cleanser enriched with Safflower Oil, Pro-Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) and Vitamin E (Tocopherol). Developed by Australian dermatological experts at Ego Pharmaceuticals, this pH-balanced formula removes makeup and impurities while leaving skin feeling fresh, soft and moisturised — without stripping natural oils.
Triple Gentle Surfactants
Uses three mild, plant-derived cleansing agents (Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Decyl Glucoside) for effective yet non-stripping cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Gentle Surfactants
Uses three mild, plant-derived cleansing agents (Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Decyl Glucoside) for effective yet non-stripping cleansing.
Safflower Oil Enriched
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil provides lightweight emollient benefits, helping maintain skin moisture during cleansing.
Pro-Vitamin B5 (Panthenol)
Helps improve skin hydration, reduce water loss and maintain softness and elasticity. Soothes and calms irritated skin.
Vitamin E Antioxidant Protection
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) acts as a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps repair, protect and smooth sensitive skin while you cleanse.
Glycerin Hydration Base
Glycerin is featured high in the formula as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and preventing the drying effects of cleansing.
Removes Makeup Gently
The foaming formula effectively lifts away light to moderate makeup and daily impurities without harsh rubbing or tugging on delicate facial skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from ferments, problematic fatty acids, esters and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No comedogenic ingredients detected. Dermatologist tested and confirmed non-comedogenic — will not clog pores.
Tested for safety around the eye area. Suitable for removing eye makeup, though avoid direct contact with eyes.
A formaldehyde-releasing preservative. Generally safe at low concentrations (0.1–0.35%), but may cause sensitivity in individuals with formaldehyde allergies. Patch test if concerned.
Does not contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Uses gentle, plant-derived surfactants instead.
Gentle enough for use alongside prescription retinoids like isotretinoin (Accutane) or tretinoin, when skin is sensitised and needs a mild cleanser.
Fragrance-free, soap-free and pH-balanced formula minimises irritation. Suitable for use on eczema-prone and rosacea-affected skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerinProven
A powerful humectant placed second in the ingredient list, indicating a high concentration. Glycerin draws water to the skin's surface and helps maintain hydration levels even during the cleansing process, preventing that tight, dry feeling.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Research: Extensively studied; proven to improve skin barrier function and hydration at concentrations above 2%
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — will not clog pores
Disodium CocoamphodiacetateProven
A mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. Its molecular structure contains both positive and negative charges, making it exceptionally gentle. Commonly recommended for baby products and sensitive skin cleansers.
- Function: Primary cleansing agent, foam booster
- Origin: Coconut-derived
- Irritation: Very low — suitable for baby and sensitive formulations
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1–1.5%Proven
Also known as Pro-Vitamin B5, Panthenol converts to Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the skin. It improves hydration, reduces transepidermal water loss and supports skin barrier repair. Widely used in wound-healing and sensitive-skin formulations.
- Function: Skin conditioning, anti-inflammatory, moisturising
- Research: Clinically shown to improve skin hydration, reduce redness and accelerate wound healing
- Irritation: 0 — extremely well tolerated
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil ~0.1–0.45%Proven
A lightweight, linoleic acid-rich plant oil that softens skin and may help calm inflammation. It acts as an emollient in this formula, helping counteract the drying effects of cleansing agents.
- Function: Emollient, antioxidant, skin conditioning
- Comedogenic Rating: 0–2 — generally non-comedogenic
- Key Fatty Acid: High in linoleic acid (omega-6), beneficial for acne-prone skin
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect skin cells from free radical damage. In cleansers, it provides conditioning benefits and helps repair and smooth sensitive skin during the cleansing process.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin conditioning
- Research: Well-established antioxidant properties; supports skin barrier health
- Synergy: Works alongside Safflower Oil and Panthenol for enhanced moisturising benefits
Decyl Glucoside ~2.1–3.1%Proven
A vegetable-origin cleansing agent derived from coconut/palm kernel oil and glucose. Known for its excellent foaming ability and skin mildness. Readily biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
- Function: Surfactant, foam booster
- Origin: Plant-derived (coconut/palm kernel oil + glucose)
- Irritation: Low, though may cause sensitivity in rare cases
13 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Decyl Glucoside, PVP, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Citric Acid, Sodium Methylparaben, PEG-14M, Diazolidinyl Urea, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night as the first step in your routine. If wearing heavy makeup, consider an oil cleanser or micellar water as a first cleanse, followed by this foaming cleanser as a second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Moisten your face and neck with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can strip the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Dispense Foam
Press the pump to dispense a walnut-sized amount of foam onto your hands. One to two pumps is usually sufficient for the full face and neck.
Massage Gently
Using upward and outward circular motions, gently massage the foam onto your face and neck for 30–60 seconds. No need to rub aggressively.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with clean water. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel — do not rub. Follow with your toner, serum and moisturiser.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, sensitive or easily irritated skin
- You want a soap-free, fragrance-free daily cleanser
- You are using Accutane, tretinoin or prescription retinoids
- You need a pregnancy and breastfeeding-safe cleanser
- You have eczema, rosacea or a compromised skin barrier
- You want an affordable, no-frills pharmacy cleanser
- You prefer a foaming texture that rinses clean
Consider alternatives if:
- You need deep cleansing for very oily or acne-prone skin (consider a BHA cleanser)
- You wear heavy, waterproof makeup daily (use an oil cleanser first)
- You prefer a rich, creamy non-foaming cleanser texture
- You are sensitive to formaldehyde releasers (contains Diazolidinyl Urea)
- You want active ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide or salicylic acid in your cleanser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for dry skin. Glycerin, Panthenol and Safflower Oil help maintain hydration during cleansing. Leaves skin soft, not tight.
Fragrance-free, soap-free, pH-balanced formula. Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. Ideal for reactive, rosacea-prone and post-procedure skin.
Cleanses effectively without stripping. Some users with oily T-zones find it slightly too gentle — may not fully control excess oil throughout the day.
May feel too gentle for very oily skin. Does not contain oil-controlling actives like niacinamide or salicylic acid. Better suited as a morning cleanser for oily types.
Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe. Great as a gentle cleanser while on acne medication (Accutane, benzoyl peroxide). Does not treat acne directly.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft and hydrated after first wash. No tightness or dryness. Fine foam texture is pleasant to use and rinses off easily.
95% noticedReduced Irritation
Redness and sensitivity begin to calm if previously using a harsh cleanser. Skin barrier starts to recover. Less post-wash dryness and flaking.
80% noticedBalanced & Healthier Skin
Skin feels consistently more comfortable and balanced. Improved hydration levels and softer texture. Makes a noticeable difference for those transitioning from stripping cleansers.
70% noticedLong-Term Barrier Support
Skin barrier is stronger and more resilient. Fewer reactive episodes. Complexion appears healthier and more even. Other skincare products absorb and perform better on a healthy barrier.
65% noticedRatings by platform
101+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — does not strip or dry out skin
- Convenient pump dispenses ready-to-use foam
- Fragrance-free and soap-free — ideal for reactive skin
- Works well alongside prescription retinoids and acne treatments
- Affordable pharmacy price point for the quality
- Short, minimal ingredient list reduces irritation risk
- Ophthalmologist tested — safe around eyes
- Leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable, not tight
Criticized
- Small 150ml bottle — may not last long with twice-daily use
- May not feel "clean enough" for very oily skin
- Struggles with heavy, waterproof makeup removal
- Contains Diazolidinyl Urea (formaldehyde releaser) — concern for some
- Limited availability outside Australia and the Middle East
- No active ingredients (no ceramides, niacinamide, or acids)
- Pump mechanism can sometimes malfunction
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilarly gentle and fragrance-free formula with panthenol and niacinamide. Non-foaming lotion texture instead of foam. Widely available globally. Does not contain Vitamin E or Safflower Oil.
Ultra-minimal formula free from dyes, fragrance, parabens and formaldehyde releasers. Gel-to-foam texture. Preferred by eczema associations. Lacks the moisturising oils and vitamins of QV.
Budget foaming cleanser with similar gentle surfactants and no fragrance. Contains Vitamin B5 and E. Slightly more ingredients but similarly gentle. Widely available at drugstores.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
Foaming pump bottle — dispenses ready-to-use foam directly. Hygienic, easy to control amount used.
Yes — 150mL is over the 100mL carry-on limit. Decant into a smaller travel container for flights, or check in luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. QV Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. All 13 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is one of the most commonly recommended cleansers by dermatologists for expectant and nursing mothers who need a gentle, fragrance-free option.
Yes. The formula is free from ferments, problematic fatty acids (like oleic acid), esters, polysorbates and other ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast. Independent ingredient analysis tools confirm this cleanser as fungal acne safe. Safe to use if you are prone to pityrosporum folliculitis.
Absolutely. As a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser without active exfoliating acids, QV Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser pairs well with all actives including retinol, tretinoin, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid). It is specifically recommended by dermatologists for patients on Accutane or prescription retinoids because it will not further sensitise the skin.
This cleanser is best suited for normal, dry and sensitive skin types. It is particularly excellent for those with reactive, eczema-prone, rosacea-affected or post-procedure skin. Combination skin types can use it as a morning cleanser. Very oily skin types may find it too gentle for thorough oil removal and may prefer a cleanser with niacinamide or salicylic acid.
Immediate comfort is noticeable from the first use — skin feels soft, clean and hydrated without tightness. Within 1–2 weeks, you should see reduced redness and irritation if switching from a harsher cleanser. After 3–4 weeks of consistent use, skin barrier health improves noticeably, with fewer reactive episodes and better overall skin texture. As a cleanser, it supports your routine rather than delivering dramatic transformative results on its own.
It goes as the first step in your routine (or the second cleanse if you double-cleanse with an oil/balm first). Use morning and night before toner, serum, moisturiser and sunscreen. For the morning, one cleanse is sufficient. In the evening, consider using a micellar water or oil cleanser first to remove heavy makeup, then follow with QV as your second cleanse.
No. QV Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. Independent analysis has detected zero comedogenic ingredients in the formula. It is officially labelled as non-comedogenic by the manufacturer and has been dermatologist tested. It is safe for acne-prone skin and will not contribute to breakouts or clogged pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 150mL pump bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use (1–2 pumps per wash).
Verdict: QV Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser is an excellent, no-nonsense daily cleanser for anyone with dry, sensitive or compromised skin. Its minimal 13-ingredient formula — free from soap, fragrance, SLS and common irritants — makes it one of the safest choices for pregnant women, Accutane users and those with eczema or rosacea. The foaming pump is convenient and hygienic, and the glycerin-rich formula leaves skin feeling soft rather than stripped. It loses a point for the small bottle size, lack of advanced actives (no ceramides or niacinamide), and the inclusion of a formaldehyde-releasing preservative. But for pure, gentle cleansing backed by 70+ years of Australian pharmaceutical expertise, the QV Foaming Cleanser is hard to beat at its price point.
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 |
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate
Cleansing, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|






