Facial Wash
Facial Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective daily facial wash by Biore — Japan's iconic pore-care brand — formulated with a moisturizing surfactant blend that deeply cleanses skin without stripping its natural moisture barrier. Featuring conditioning agents like Glycerin, Sorbitol, and Polyquaternium-7, this creamy wash rinses clean to leave skin soft, balanced, and refreshed after every use.
Gentle Surfactant System
Uses Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid, and Lauryl Hydroxysultaine — mild surfactants far gentler than SLS — to cleanse without damaging the skin barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle Surfactant System
Uses Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid, and Lauryl Hydroxysultaine — mild surfactants far gentler than SLS — to cleanse without damaging the skin barrier.
Dual Moisturizing Action
Sorbitol and Glycerin work as humectants to draw and retain moisture, ensuring skin stays hydrated even after thorough cleansing.
Skin-Conditioning Polymers
Polyquaternium-7 and Polyquaternium-39 coat the skin in a protective film, improving softness and texture after every wash.
pH-Optimized Formula
Potassium Hydroxide is used to precisely balance the formula's pH, keeping it close to skin's natural pH for a non-irritating cleanse.
Preserved with Ethylhexylglycerin
Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin provide broad-spectrum preservation without the concerns associated with traditional parabens.
Trusted J-Beauty Heritage
Biore is developed by Kao Corporation, one of Japan's most respected cosmetic science companies with over a century of skincare research behind its formulations.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreen actives. The formula relies on gentle surfactants and standard preservatives considered safe during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor for personal guidance.
Contains Palmitic Acid (C16), Myristic Acid (C14), and Lauric Acid (C12) — fatty acids in the C11–C24 range that can theoretically feed Malassezia yeast in lab settings. Real-world risk is lower since this is a rinse-off cleanser, but those with active fungal acne should use with caution.
Glyceryl Stearate (rating 1) and Myristic Acid (rating 3) are the highest-risk ingredients, but as this is a wash-off product the practical comedogenic risk is significantly reduced for most users.
Contains Parfum, Citronellol, and Geraniol (EU allergens disclosed). If you have known fragrance sensitivity or reactive skin, patch test on your neck before full facial use.
Free from Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). Surfactants used are milder carboxylate and sultaine types, making this suitable for daily use without disrupting the skin barrier.
This cleanser contains no active exfoliants, so it is fully compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs used elsewhere in your routine. It can be used as the cleansing step before any actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~65–70%Base
The primary solvent and carrier for all other ingredients. Water forms the foundation of this cream wash, enabling the surfactants and moisturizing agents to dissolve evenly and reach the skin effectively.
- Function: Solvent, carrier
- Safety: Universally safe; universally present in rinse-off formulas
Sorbitol ~2–5%Proven
A sugar alcohol humectant derived from glucose reduction. Sorbitol draws moisture from the environment into the skin, helping maintain hydration during cleansing. It also acts as a gentle prebiotic, supporting the skin's natural microbiome balance.
- Source: Derived from plant starches (typically corn or potato)
- Function: Humectant, thickener, skin-conditioning agent
- Safety: CIR-approved as safe; non-irritating, non-sensitizing
Glycerin ~2–4%Proven
One of the most well-researched humectants in skincare. Naturally found in the skin, glycerin attracts water to the epidermis and has been demonstrated to outperform AHAs and hyaluronic acid in some comparative humectant studies (2016 clinical research).
- Low molecular weight: Penetrates into deeper epidermal layers
- Clinical backing: Shown superior humectant efficacy vs. AHAs in controlled studies
- Safety: FDA GRAS; universally safe, non-comedogenic (rating 0)
Myristic Acid ~1–3%Proven
A C14 saturated fatty acid used primarily as an emulsifier and soap-forming agent. When combined with Potassium Hydroxide, Myristic Acid forms a potassium myristate salt that creates the characteristic rich, creamy foam texture of this wash.
- Function: Emulsifier, cleansing co-agent, foam builder
- Comedogenic index: 3 (moderate — mitigated by rinse-off use)
Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid & Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid ~1–3%Proven
Mild anionic surfactants from the carboxylate family. Significantly gentler than SLS/SLES, these surfactants clean skin efficiently without the irritation or barrier disruption associated with harsher sulfate cleansers. They are particularly effective at oil removal while remaining compatible with sensitive skin.
- Function: Primary mild cleansing surfactants
- Safety: EWG Score 1–2 (low concern); well-tolerated in clinical studies
- Comparison: Substantially gentler than SLS (EWG Score 3–6)
Lauryl Hydroxysultaine ~1–2%Proven
An amphoteric surfactant that both cleanses and conditions simultaneously. It boosts foam quality, improves mildness, and reduces the irritation potential of the anionic surfactants in the formula. Commonly used in baby care formulas due to its outstanding tolerance profile.
- Function: Amphoteric co-surfactant, foam enhancer, mildness booster
- Safety: Excellent tolerance; suitable for sensitive skin types
Polyquaternium-7 & Polyquaternium-39 ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Conditioning cationic polymers that deposit onto skin during cleansing, leaving a soft, smooth feel after rinsing. Polyquaternium-7 is particularly noted for its anti-static and film-forming properties that improve skin texture without heaviness.
- Function: Skin conditioning, anti-static, film-former
- Benefit: Maintains a soft, non-squeaky-clean feel post-wash
Ethylhexylglycerin ~0.3–1%Proven
A multifunctional ingredient acting as both a skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster. It enhances the efficacy of phenoxyethanol, allowing for lower overall preservative concentrations while maintaining product safety.
- Function: Preservative booster, humectant, conditioning agent
- Safety: Widely considered a paraben-free preservation solution
Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate ~0.5–1.5%Promising
An emulsifier pair that helps blend the water and oil-phase ingredients into a stable, uniform cream texture. Glyceryl Stearate also has minor moisturizing properties, contributing to the product's conditioning feel.
- Function: Emulsifiers, texture stabilizers
- Comedogenic (Glyceryl Stearate): Rating 1 (very low)
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A rheology modifier that thickens the formula and gives it a smooth, stable cream consistency. It also helps the surfactants and other actives distribute evenly across the skin during application.
- Function: Thickener, stabilizer, emulsion stabilizer
- Safety: Non-toxic at concentrations used in cosmetics (CIR approved)
26 ingredients
Water, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Potassium Hydroxide, Laureth-6 Carboxylic Acid, Lauric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Polyquaternium-7, Palmitic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-100 Stearate, Disodium EDTA, PEG-6, Polyquaternium-39, Dipentaerythrityl Tri-Polyhydroxystearate, Sodium Benzoate, Aluminum Hydroxide, PEG-65M, BHT, Citronellol, Geraniol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second cleanse (after an oil-based remover) in double-cleansing routines, or alone as your single daily cleanser morning and evening.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water to open pores and prepare the skin for cleansing. Avoid hot water, which can strip the skin's natural oils.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a small amount (about a 20-cent coin size) onto your palm and work it into a lather with a little water. The cream will transform into a gentle foamy consistency.
Gentle Circular Massage
Apply to your face using soft, upward circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone, nose, and chin where oil and impurities accumulate most.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue is left behind — especially around the hairline and jaw. The formula rinses away cleanly without leaving a film.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat dry with a soft towel — do not rub. Immediately follow with your toner or essence to lock in moisture while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin
- You want a gentle daily cleanser that won't over-strip
- You're building a J-beauty–inspired skincare routine
- You prefer a rinse-clean cream formula with light foam
- You're pregnant and need a safe, fuss-free cleanser
- You want a sulfate-free, paraben-free formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have extreme fragrance sensitivity or known Citronellol/Geraniol allergy
- You wear heavy waterproof makeup (pair with a pre-cleanse oil first)
- You need medicated or salicylic acid cleansing for acne treatment
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess sebum and pore buildup without leaving any residue. Leaves oily skin feeling clean and balanced — not squeaky-tight.
Balances oily T-zone while being gentle enough for drier cheek areas. The conditioning polymers ensure no patchiness or dryness after washing.
An ideal everyday cleanser for normal skin — thorough yet gentle, with moisturizing agents that maintain the skin's natural equilibrium.
Sorbitol and Glycerin help prevent excessive dryness, but those with very dry or dehydrated skin may need to follow up with a richer moisturizer immediately after washing.
Mild surfactants make this gentler than most drugstore cleansers. However, the Parfum, Citronellol, and Geraniol content means patch testing is recommended for reactive skin types.
Non-stripping, low comedogenic risk in rinse-off format. Does not contain active anti-acne ingredients like salicylic acid, so pair with targeted acne treatments if needed.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Cleansing & Softness
Skin feels clean, soft, and balanced — noticeably different from harsh sulfate cleansers. No tight or stripped sensation post-wash. Light residual moisture remains on the skin surface.
100% experience thisImproved Skin Texture
With daily use, skin begins to appear more even and supple. Excess oil production normalises for combination/oily skin types due to the non-stripping nature of the formula — less reactive sebum overproduction.
~78% notice thisClearer, More Balanced Complexion
Pores appear visibly less congested as the gentle but effective surfactant blend consistently clears sebum and debris without irritating the follicular environment. Skin tone becomes more uniform.
~65% notice thisSustained Barrier Health
Long-term users report a strengthened skin barrier, fewer flare-ups of sensitivity, and overall resilience. Skin adapts positively to consistent gentle cleansing, showing improved moisture retention over time.
~55% notice thisRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle, non-stripping cleanse — no tight feeling post-wash
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free formula
- Rich creamy lather that feels luxurious yet rinses completely clean
- Glycerin and Sorbitol maintain skin hydration during cleansing
- Conditioning polymers leave skin noticeably smooth after use
- Trusted J-beauty brand with decades of pore-care expertise
- Pregnancy-safe formulation
- Works well as part of a double-cleansing routine
Criticized
- Contains Parfum, Citronellol, and Geraniol — not fully fragrance-free
- Palmitic and Myristic Acids may be problematic for active fungal acne
- Tube packaging makes dispensing awkward near the end
- No active acne-fighting ingredients (salicylic acid, niacinamide, etc.)
- Very dry skin may need extra moisturizer support
- Myristic Acid has a comedogenic index of 3 (though risk is low as rinse-off)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares 12 key ingredients with Biore Facial Wash, including the mild surfactant base and humectant system. Both are paraben-free and sulfate-free. The charcoal provides extra oil-absorbing action for oily skin but adds more detergency than Biore's gentler formula.
Shares 12 common ingredients and a comparable gentle rinse-off surfactant system. Cruelty-free like Biore and similarly free from harsh alcohols, parabens, and silicones. The K-beauty variant offers a slightly more moisturizing finish for normal-to-dry skin.
The most-liked community alternative to Biore Facial Wash. A dermatologist-recommended French pharmacy cleanser with 66% ingredient function match. LRP includes zinc pidolate for sebum control, but is fragrance-free — ideal for sensitive skin that reacts to Biore's Parfum content.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging indicating the PAO period.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to prevent contamination.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic and easy to control the amount dispensed. No pump mechanism — squeeze gently for desired amount.
Yes — at 130g (4.6 oz), it exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into a small travel tube or check baggage when flying. Widely available internationally.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Biore Facial Wash is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula does not contain retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters — the main ingredients dermatologists advise against during pregnancy. The surfactants, humectants, and preservatives used are standard cosmetic-grade ingredients at safe concentrations. Always check with your OB or midwife if you have specific concerns, particularly regarding the fragrance components (Parfum, Citronellol, Geraniol).
Use with caution if you have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Palmitic Acid (C16), Myristic Acid (C14), and Lauric Acid (C12) — fatty acids in the carbon chain range that Malassezia yeast can feed on in lab conditions. That said, because this is a rinse-off cleanser, the actual contact time with skin is very brief, and many formulators argue the practical risk from rinse-off products is significantly lower than from leave-on products. If your fungal acne is active and severe, opt for a fatty-acid-free cleanser until your condition resolves.
Absolutely yes. Biore Facial Wash contains no active exfoliants, retinoids, or pH-sensitive ingredients that would interact with your actives. Use it as the cleansing step at the beginning of your routine — morning or evening — and then apply your vitamin C serum, AHAs, BHAs, or retinol products afterward on clean skin. The mild pH-balanced formula actually creates an ideal canvas for actives to penetrate effectively without barrier disruption.
Biore Facial Wash is best suited for normal, combination, and oily skin types. The surfactant system effectively removes excess sebum and daily pollution without over-stripping, making it ideal for those who want a thorough but respectful cleanse. It also works well for dry skin when followed by a good moisturizer, and for sensitive skin (with a patch test first, due to the fragrance). Those with fungal acne or extreme fragrance sensitivity should consider alternatives.
Most users notice an immediate improvement in post-cleanse skin feel from the very first use — skin feels soft rather than tight or stripped. After one to two weeks of consistent daily use, many users report more balanced oil production, less congestion, and smoother texture. More significant changes in complexion evenness and pore appearance typically become visible after three to four weeks. As a cleanser (rather than a treatment product), its primary job is to prep your skin effectively — long-term results depend on your full routine.
Biore Facial Wash is a face cleanser and always goes as step one or two in your routine. In a double-cleansing routine (the Japanese skincare method), it follows an oil-based pre-cleanser or micellar water. In a single-cleanse routine, it is the first step before toner, essence, serums, moisturizer, and SPF. Use it both morning and evening. Apply to wet skin, lather, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly before continuing with the rest of your routine.
The Biore Facial Wash has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5, driven primarily by Myristic Acid (rating 3) and Glyceryl Stearate (rating 1). However, comedogenic ratings are most relevant to leave-on products. Because this is a rinse-off cleanser — applied briefly and washed away — the practical risk of pore-clogging is substantially reduced compared to a moisturizer or serum containing the same ingredients. Most users with acne-prone skin tolerate it well. If you are particularly prone to clogged pores, patch test on your chin or forehead for one week before full facial use.
Biore Facial Wash has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months — meaning it remains at peak efficacy and safety for up to 12 months after you first open it. The combination of Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, and BHT provides robust preservation to prevent microbial growth and oxidation. Store the tube with the cap tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or steam (bathroom shelves away from the shower are ideal) to maximize shelf life.
Verdict: The Biore Facial Wash is a well-formulated, value-driven J-beauty cleanser that punches above its price point. Its intelligent use of mild carboxylate surfactants and Lauryl Hydroxysultaine — paired with Glycerin, Sorbitol, and conditioning polymers — delivers a thorough cleanse that respects the skin barrier. It is an excellent daily cleanser for normal, combination, and oily skin types who want a gentle but effective wash without the harsh stripping of sulfate-based formulas. The main limitations are the presence of fragrance components (Parfum, Citronellol, Geraniol) making it unsuitable for very fragrance-sensitive individuals, and some theoretical fungal acne concern from its fatty acid content. For the vast majority of users, however, this remains a reliable, affordable staple cleanser that earns its place in any J-beauty or everyday skincare 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Hydroxysultaine
Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|






