Foaming Facial Cleanser
Foaming Facial Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
Sukin's Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gentle, non-drying gel cleanser for normal to oily skin. Powered by a botanical blend of Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Green Tea, and Witch Hazel, it purifies and balances the complexion without stripping natural oils — all at an everyday price point. 98.8% naturally derived, vegan, and proudly Australian made.
Botanical Soothing Blend
Chamomile, Aloe Vera, Green Tea, and Witch Hazel work together to calm inflammation, reduce redness, and tone pores after each cleanse.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBotanical Soothing Blend
Chamomile, Aloe Vera, Green Tea, and Witch Hazel work together to calm inflammation, reduce redness, and tone pores after each cleanse.
Non-Stripping Gentle Cleanse
Sulphate-free surfactants (Cocamidopropyl Betaine + Decyl Glucoside) lift dirt and excess oil without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Light Nourishing Oils
Rosehip, Macadamia, and Evening Primrose oils deliver antioxidants and essential fatty acids, leaving skin soft rather than tight after washing.
Eco-Conscious Formula
Vegan, cruelty-free, carbon neutral, and packaged in recyclable materials. Greywater safe — kind to your skin and the planet.
Exceptional Value
One of the most affordable naturally-derived facial cleansers on the market. A little goes a long way — the pump dispenses just the right amount each use.
Award-Winning Formula
Winner of "Best Foaming Cleanser" at the UK Beauty Shortlist Awards 2017, and a long-time bestseller across Australia, the UK, and internationally.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and unsafe chemical sunscreens. All botanical extracts and surfactants are considered safe during pregnancy at typical rinse-off concentrations. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil and Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil, which contain fatty acid profiles (oleic acid, linoleic acid) that may feed Malassezia in susceptible individuals. As a rinse-off cleanser, the risk is low but not zero. Patch test if you have active fungal acne.
The primary oils — Macadamia (rating 1-2), Rosehip (rating 1), and Evening Primrose (rating 2-3) — are all low to moderately low on the comedogenic scale. As a rinse-off cleanser, residue is minimal and pore-clogging risk is very low.
Sulphate-free and paraben-free. No SLS or SLES. The surfactant system is among the gentlest available. Chamomile and Aloe Vera actively soothe reactive skin. Patch test recommended for highly reactive or eczema-prone skin.
Contains naturally-derived fragrance from Citrus Tangerina Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Vanillin, and Vanilla Planifolia Extract. Limonene* and Linalool* are naturally occurring allergens declared on the label. Those with known citrus or lavender sensitivities should patch test first.
As a rinse-off cleanser, Sukin Foaming Cleanser is compatible with all active ingredient routines. It does not contain acids or actives that would interact with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs used in subsequent steps.
Preserved with Phenoxyethanol and Benzyl Alcohol, widely used gentle preservative systems. Considered safe at typical cosmetic concentrations (below 1%). Generally well-tolerated, including by sensitive skin types.
Non-comedogenic formula with no pore-clogging mineral oils, waxes, or silicones. Witch Hazel provides mild astringent and anti-bacterial action to help manage breakout-prone skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice High ConcentrationProven
The second ingredient after water, Aloe Vera juice forms a major active base of this formula. It delivers immediate soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties to the skin during the cleansing process.
- Function: Humectant, soothing agent, anti-inflammatory
- Key actives: Acemannan polysaccharides, vitamins C & E, enzymes
- Research: Clinical studies show Aloe Vera reduces skin inflammation and supports barrier repair after cleansing
- Skin types: All skin types, especially sensitive, dry, and sunburned skin
Cocamidopropyl Betaine ModerateProven
A coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant that provides gentle foaming and cleansing while reducing irritation from other cleansing agents. Highly biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Function: Primary mild surfactant, foam booster, viscosity builder
- Origin: Coconut oil derivatives — biodegradable and grey-water safe
- Research: 2012 study confirmed high-purity CAPB does not cause allergic reactions; previously suspected irritants were impurities, not CAPB itself
Decyl Glucoside ModerateProven
A glucose-based surfactant derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and corn glucose. One of the gentlest cleansing agents available, it is hypoallergenic and commonly used in baby and sensitive skin products.
- Function: Co-surfactant, foaming agent, emulsion stabiliser
- Origin: Vegetable-derived (coconut/palm kernel + glucose)
- Benefit: Excellent skin tolerability; readily biodegradable and considered eco-safe
Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract FunctionalProven
Chamomile extract provides potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and calming properties. It helps reduce post-cleansing redness and irritation, particularly beneficial for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Key actives: Bisabolol, apigenin, chamazulene (anti-inflammatory)
- Research: Bisabolol is clinically demonstrated to reduce inflammation and accelerate skin healing
- Traditional use: Centuries of use as a calming botanical for skin irritation
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract FunctionalProven
Green Tea extract is one of the most extensively researched skincare ingredients. Rich in polyphenols (EGCG), it provides powerful antioxidant protection against environmental damage and UV-induced oxidative stress.
- Key actives: EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), tannins, vitamins
- Research: EGCG shown to reduce inflammation, protect against UVB-induced DNA damage, and possess anti-bacterial properties
- Additional benefit: Mild astringent action helps tighten and minimise appearance of pores
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract FunctionalProven
Witch Hazel is a well-established natural astringent and antioxidant. In this formula it helps remove excess sebum, tighten pores, and provide mild antimicrobial benefits without causing dryness.
- Key actives: Tannins (hamamelitannin), gallic acid, proanthocyanidins
- Function: Astringent, antioxidant, mild antimicrobial
- Benefit: Helps control oiliness and reduce appearance of pores post-cleanse
Glycerin FunctionalProven
A humectant superstar that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. Glycerin prevents the tight, dry feeling often associated with cleansers, helping maintain skin hydration throughout the cleansing process.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioner
- Research: One of the most-studied cosmetic ingredients; consistently shown to improve skin hydration and barrier function
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — completely non-comedogenic
Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil LowPromising
Macadamia oil is rich in palmitoleic acid (omega-7) and oleic acid. It closely mimics the skin's natural sebum composition, making it one of the most skin-compatible plant oils available.
- Key fatty acids: Oleic (55-65%), Palmitoleic (15-25%)
- Comedogenic rating: 1-2 — very low
- Benefit: Provides emolliency without heaviness; supports lipid barrier in the cleansing process
Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rosehip) LowProven
Cold-pressed Rosehip oil is celebrated for its high trans-retinoic acid precursors and essential fatty acids. It provides antioxidant protection and supports skin renewal and radiance.
- Key actives: Linoleic acid (40-50%), alpha-linolenic acid (30-35%), vitamin A precursors
- Comedogenic rating: 1 — very low
- Research: Clinical studies show Rosehip oil improves skin texture, reduces hyperpigmentation, and supports wound healing
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil LowProven
Evening Primrose Oil is exceptionally rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that supports the skin's barrier function and reduces inflammation. Particularly beneficial for dry or irritated skin.
- Key actives: GLA (8-10%), linoleic acid (70-74%)
- Comedogenic rating: 2-3 — low to moderate (as a rinse-off, risk is negligible)
- Research: GLA supplementation and topical application shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity
21 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana Extract, Glycerin, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Oenothera Biennis Oil, Citrus Tangerina Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Vanillin, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene*, Linalool*
*Naturally occurring in essential oils.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleanse in the morning and as a second cleanse (after an oil or micellar cleanser) in the evening. Follow immediately with toner to maximise hydration before active steps.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Hands & Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can strip the skin's natural oils and trigger excess oil production.
Dispense Product
Pump a small amount (approximately 1 pump / half a teaspoon) onto moist palms. A little goes a long way — avoid over-applying.
Lather & Massage
Rub hands together to activate the foam, then gently massage onto the face and neck in small circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on oily zones (T-zone, around the nose) and areas with makeup or SPF.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains (especially around the hairline and jaw). Alternatively, remove with a damp cotton wool pad or warm face cloth for a more thorough cleanse.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Apply toner while skin is still slightly damp for best absorption of subsequent products. Use once or twice daily.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin
- You prefer natural and plant-based skincare
- You want an affordable, everyday cleanser
- You're looking for a gentle, non-stripping formula
- You want vegan and cruelty-free products
- You're pregnant and want a safe cleanser
- You have mild to moderate breakout-prone skin
- You love a light citrus-vanilla scent
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (may need a cream cleanser)
- You wear heavy, full-coverage makeup (double cleanse needed)
- You have severe fungal acne and are highly oil-sensitive
- You have citrus or lavender essential oil allergies
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free formula
- You need a medicated or acid-based cleanse for severe acne
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWitch Hazel and Green Tea help control sebum while the sulphate-free surfactants lift excess oil without triggering a rebound oil response. Works brilliantly as a daily AM and PM cleanser.
Balances oily zones while being gentle enough for drier cheek areas. One of the ideal formulas for combination types who need to manage the T-zone without drying the rest of the face.
A reliable everyday cleanser for those with balanced skin. Cleans effectively without disrupting skin homeostasis. Suitable for morning and evening use year-round.
Sulphate-free and free from harsh actives. The botanical soothing blend (Chamomile, Aloe Vera) actively calms reactive skin. However, the natural fragrance components (Limonene, Linalool) may occasionally irritate the most sensitive individuals — patch test first.
Non-comedogenic and free from pore-clogging ingredients. Witch Hazel provides mild antibacterial and astringent benefits. Not a medicated acne wash, but works well as a gentle daily cleanser alongside dedicated acne treatments.
The formula is non-stripping, and Aloe Vera + Glycerin provide some hydration, but very dry skin types may find this cleanser slightly insufficient on its own. Pair with a rich moisturiser immediately after, or consider a cream cleanser alternative.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Freshness & Clean Feeling
Skin feels clean, balanced, and soft — not tight or stripped. The light citrus-vanilla scent creates a pleasant cleansing ritual. Makeup and daily grime are effectively removed.
100% notice fresh, non-stripped feelBalanced Oil Production & Reduced Tightness
Skin adjusts to the gentle sulphate-free formula. Those switching from harsh cleansers notice a reduction in over-dryness and reactive oiliness. Combination skin begins to feel more balanced throughout the day.
~75% notice improved balanceCalmer, Clearer Complexion
The anti-inflammatory botanicals (Chamomile, Green Tea, Witch Hazel) begin to show cumulative effects. Redness is reduced, pores appear less congested, and skin texture improves with consistent use.
~65% notice improved clarityConsistently Healthy-Looking Skin
Long-term users report consistently balanced, soft, and clean-looking skin. The formula supports the skin barrier over time, making skin less reactive and more resilient to environmental stressors.
~80% report long-term satisfactionRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value for money — competes with cleansers 3–5× the price
- Genuinely gentle and non-stripping for oily/combination skin
- Leaves skin clean and balanced, not tight or squeaky
- Pleasant citrus-vanilla scent that users find uplifting
- A little goes a long way — 125ml lasts 2–3 months
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and carbon neutral credentials
- 98.8% naturally derived with recognisable botanical ingredients
- Works well alongside active ingredient routines (retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA)
Criticised
- Not a standalone heavy makeup remover — double cleansing required with full-coverage makeup or SPF
- Natural fragrance (Limonene, Linalool) may irritate highly fragrance-sensitive individuals
- May be slightly insufficient for very dry or dehydrated skin types
- Not a medicated acne treatment — severe acne may need additional targeted products
- Oily users with fungal acne concerns should approach with caution due to lipid content
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESFragrance-free, gentle surfactant system with pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E. Lacks the botanical complexity of Sukin (no rosehip, chamomile, or green tea) but is an excellent option for highly fragrance-sensitive skin at a lower price point.
Dermatologist-recommended, extremely gentle formula suitable for sensitive and dry skin. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Less botanical richness than Sukin, but better suited for very sensitive or eczema-prone skin that may react to natural fragrance components.
Hyaluronic acid-boosted formula provides excellent hydration during cleansing. Better for dry to normal skin than oily skin. Less aligned with natural/eco values than Sukin, but a strong performer for those prioritising deep hydration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on packaging for confirmation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving in humid environments (e.g. steamy bathrooms) for extended periods to preserve the botanical extracts.
Pump-action bottle in recyclable plastic packaging. The pump dispenser ensures hygienic, controlled dispensing and minimises product waste. Packaging is 100% recyclable.
Yes — the 50ml size is under 100ml and TSA/airline carry-on compliant. The 125ml full-size is suitable for checked luggage or longer trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or harmful chemical sunscreens — the key ingredients flagged as unsafe in pregnancy. The surfactants (Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside) are gentle and widely used in pregnancy-safe cleansers, and the botanical extracts (Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Green Tea, Witch Hazel) are at cosmetic concentrations in a rinse-off formula. As always, consult your healthcare provider or midwife with specific concerns, particularly if you have any known sensitivities.
Use with caution if you have active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). The formula contains Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rosehip), and Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil — all of which contain fatty acid profiles (oleic acid, linoleic acid) that can feed Malassezia yeast in susceptible individuals. However, because this is a rinse-off cleanser, the contact time is very short and any oil residue is washed away — meaning the practical risk for fungal acne is significantly lower than with leave-on products. Many people with fungal acne use it without issue. If you have severe or active fungal acne, we recommend a strict antifungal wash routine and consult a dermatologist. When in doubt, patch test first.
Absolutely — yes. The Sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser is fully compatible with active ingredient routines. As a rinse-off step, it is used and removed before any active products are applied, so there is no interaction risk. It does not contain any acids, enzymes, or actives that would react with or deactivate retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid), or BHAs (like salicylic acid). Its gentle surfactants actually make it an ideal prep step before applying actives, as it cleanses without over-sensitising the skin barrier. After rinsing, you can proceed directly to your toner, vitamin C serum, retinol, or acid treatments as usual.
Sukin markets this cleanser for normal to oily skin, and that is indeed where it excels. The Witch Hazel and Green Tea provide mild astringency and sebum control, while the non-stripping surfactants prevent the rebound oiliness associated with harsh cleansers. It is also excellent for combination skin, as it effectively tackles the T-zone without stripping drier cheek areas. Sensitive skin types can generally tolerate it well — the soothing botanicals help calm reactivity — but should patch test first due to natural fragrance components (Limonene, Linalool). Very dry or dehydrated skin types may find it slightly insufficient and may prefer a cream or oil cleanser alternative. It is not specifically formulated for acne treatment, though it supports a clear complexion as part of a broader routine.
You will notice immediate results from the very first use — clean, balanced skin that does not feel tight or stripped after washing. Within the first 1–2 weeks of consistent use, many users notice improved oil balance, particularly those transitioning from sulphate-based cleansers. The anti-inflammatory botanicals (Chamomile, Green Tea, Witch Hazel) show cumulative effects over 3–4 weeks, with skin appearing calmer, pores looking less congested, and overall texture improving. By week 6–8, long-term users report consistently healthier-looking, more resilient skin. As a cleanser, its role is to maintain and support your skin — visible results are enhanced when combined with targeted treatments (serums, moisturisers, SPF) in the same routine.
This cleanser is the first step in your skincare routine — both morning and evening. In the morning, use it as your sole cleanser to remove overnight buildup and prepare skin for serums, moisturiser, and SPF. In the evening, if you wear makeup or SPF, use it as a second cleanse after an oil cleanser or micellar water to ensure a thorough cleanse. After rinsing, apply toner (ideally while skin is still slightly damp), followed by your treatments (serums, retinol, vitamin C), eye cream, moisturiser, and — in the morning — sunscreen as the final step.
No — the Sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. While it contains plant oils (Macadamia, Rosehip, Evening Primrose), all are low on the comedogenic scale individually. More importantly, this is a rinse-off formula — the oils are washed away during cleansing and do not remain on the skin in any meaningful quantity. The surfactants are free from comedogenic ingredients like mineral oil, silicones, or heavy waxes. For the vast majority of users, including those with acne-prone or oily skin, this cleanser will not clog pores. Those with known comedogenic sensitivities should patch test as a precaution.
The Sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months, indicated by the open jar symbol on the packaging. The 125ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use (approximately 1 pump per use), making it one of the most economical cleansers available per wash. For best results, store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving in very hot, humid bathrooms for extended periods as this can degrade the natural botanical extracts more quickly. If the product changes colour, texture, or scent significantly before the 12-month mark, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser is one of the best-value naturally derived cleansers on the market. It delivers a genuinely effective, non-stripping cleanse powered by a thoughtful botanical blend — Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Green Tea, Witch Hazel, Rosehip, and Evening Primrose Oil — at a price point that makes premium natural skincare accessible. It excels for normal, combination, and oily skin types, and comfortably holds its own against cleansers two to three times the price. As an Australian-made, vegan, cruelty-free, and carbon-neutral product, it also ticks every eco-conscious box. The only caveats are for those with very dry skin (a cream cleanser may be better suited), severe fungal acne, or strong fragrance sensitivities. For everyone else — this is a standout everyday cleanser.
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 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
|








