Foaming Gel Cleanser
Foaming Gel Cleanser
Product Description
Marcelle Foaming Gel Cleanser is a gentle, fragrance-free daily wash that lifts away dirt, makeup, and excess sebum without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier. Powered by stabilized Vitamin C, niacinamide, and Vitamin E, it leaves skin feeling clean, soft, and looking more radiant β soap-free, sulfate-free, and kind to even sensitive skin.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Soap-Free, Sulfate-Free Lather
Mild amino-acid and sugar-derived surfactants (sodium lauroyl sarcosinate and lauryl glucoside) cleanse effectively without harsh sulfates or soap.
Brightening Vitamin Trio
Stabilized Vitamin C, niacinamide (B3), and Vitamin E support a more even, radiant-looking complexion as you cleanse.
Sensitive-Skin Friendly
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and tested on sensitive skin β formulated to respect the moisture barrier.
Big-Bottle Value
A generous 500 mL bottle at $19.95 works out to roughly $4 per 100 mL β excellent value for a daily-use cleanser.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Niacinamide, the Vitamin C ester, panthenol, and glycerin are widely considered pregnancy-friendly. Confirm with your doctor.
Free of esters, fatty acids, and polysorbates that feed malassezia β verified fungal-acne safe, and it rinses off the skin.
As a rinse-off cleanser it plays well with any routine β follow with retinol, AHA/BHA, or Vitamin C serums afterward without conflict.
The reformulated foaming version felt less gentle for a few long-time users (mild redness or stinging). Patch test if your skin is very reactive.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Niacinamide Undisclosed % Proven
A multitasking form of Vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, helps regulate oil, and supports a more even tone over time.
- Research: Topical niacinamide is well studied for improving barrier function and reducing the look of hyperpigmentation.
- Tolerance: Gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
π 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) Undisclosed % Promising
A stable, water-friendly Vitamin C derivative that brightens and acts as an antioxidant, helping to fade the look of dark spots.
- How it works: Converts to active Vitamin C deeper in the skin and is more stable than pure ascorbic acid.
- Optimal pH: Performs best in a mildly acidic 4β5.5 range.
π§ Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Undisclosed % Proven
A humectant that hydrates and soothes while supporting the skin barrier, helping offset any tightness from cleansing.
- Function: Binds water to keep skin hydrated and is recognized for aiding skin comfort and repair.
- Profile: Found naturally in skin and hair; broadly non-irritating.
πΏ Glycerin 0/0 comedogenic Proven
A powerhouse humectant that draws water into the skin's outer layer, keeping it soft and hydrated across all skin types.
- Evidence: Well documented to support hydration, elasticity, and barrier comfort.
- Compatibility: Non-irritating and plays well with virtually every other ingredient.
π‘οΈ Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) Undisclosed % Promising
An antioxidant that helps protect skin from free-radical damage and works synergistically with Vitamin C.
- Research: Studies show Vitamin E combined with Vitamin C can help reduce signs of UV-related skin damage.
𫧠Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate + Lauryl Glucoside Cleansing base Proven
The gentle surfactant duo that does the cleansing β sourced from coconut and sugar, they lift oil, dirt, and makeup without sulfates.
- Function: Sulfate-free, soap-free surfactants that produce a soft foam and rinse clean.
15 ingredients
Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Lauryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Citric Acid, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Xanthan Gum, Tetrasodium EDTA, T-Butyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the first step of your routine, morning and/or evening. Follow with toner, treatment serums, moisturizer, and (in the AM) sunscreen.
π How to Use
Apply
Dispense a small amount onto damp skin and gently massage into a light lather.
Rinse
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, avoiding the eye area.
Dry & Continue
Pat dry, then follow with your Marcelle toner and moisturizer.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin
- You want a gentle, fragrance-free daily cleanser
- You prefer sulfate-free, vegan, cruelty-free formulas
- You like a soft foaming texture that rinses clean
- You're building a budget-friendly routine
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (a cream cleanser may suit better)
- You want high-strength leave-on actives (this is a rinse-off)
- Your skin is highly reactive and disliked the reformulated foaming version
- You prefer a scented cleansing experience
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Foaming format clears excess sebum; the brand's test found 81% noticed reduced oiliness and impurities.
This is the brand's target skin type β balances oil zones while staying comfortable elsewhere.
Glycerin and panthenol soften the wash, but very dry skin may prefer a cream cleanser.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, though a few users found the foaming reformulation less gentle. Patch test.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fungal-acne safe, with niacinamide to help calm breakout-prone skin.
π Results Timeline
Clean, soft, balanced skin
Dirt, makeup, and excess oil are lifted away without tightness or a stripped feeling.
81% noticed reduced excess sebum*Comfortable daily cleanse
Skin feels consistently balanced with less midday shine when used morning and night.
72% felt gently & effectively cleansed*Smoother, brighter look
Continued use of the Vitamin C and niacinamide supports a more even, radiant complexion.
Based on brand consumer test*Maintained barrier comfort
A gentle, consistent cleansing routine keeps skin soft, clear, and comfortable over time.
*Marcelle consumer test of 32 participants after 4 weeks. Individual results vary.
β Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Gentle, sulfate- and soap-free cleansing
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Removes makeup, oil, and impurities effectively
- Excellent value (500 mL for about $20)
- Vegan, cruelty-free, fungal-acne safe, made in Canada
β Criticized
- Reformulated foaming version felt less gentle for some sensitive users
- Active concentrations are undisclosed and limited by rinse-off contact
- Mixed opinions on the very faint scent of the base
- May feel slightly tight on very dry skin
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Very close concept: 3% niacinamide plus hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C, fragrance-free and vegan. Essence-like gel rather than foaming, and the 210 mL bottle is pricier per ounce.
Adds ceramides and niacinamide and costs less per ounce, but has no Vitamin C and uses different surfactants. Leans toward oily/acne skin with a slightly less cushioned feel.
A very gentle, fragrance-free foaming option for sensitive skin at a lower price, but it lacks the brightening Vitamin C and niacinamide actives found here.
Prices are approximate and vary by retailer and region.
π Comparison with Competitors
Marcelle Foaming Gel Cleanser (Featured)
$19.95Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing GelΓ©e 3%
~$19.99CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
~$15.99La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser
~$16.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
Approximately 12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed.
500 mL pump bottle
The 500 mL bottle exceeds the 100 mL carry-on liquid limit β decant into a travel container for flights.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it's generally considered safe. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Its actives β niacinamide, a stable Vitamin C ester, panthenol, and glycerin β are widely regarded as pregnancy-friendly. As always, confirm with your healthcare provider.
Yes. It's verified malassezia-safe β it contains no esters, fatty acids, or polysorbates that feed the yeast linked to fungal acne, and as a rinse-off cleanser it has minimal contact time.
Yes. Because it rinses off, it won't interfere with your treatment products. Cleanse first, then apply your retinol, Vitamin C, AHA, or BHA serums afterward.
It's formulated for normal to combination skin and works especially well for oily and acne-prone skin. It's also gentle enough for many sensitive-skin users, though very dry skin may prefer a cream cleanser.
Skin feels clean and soft immediately. In the brand's 4-week consumer test, 81% noticed reduced excess sebum and impurities and 72% felt their skin was gently and effectively cleansed.
It's the first step, used in the morning and/or evening on damp skin. Follow with toner, treatment serums, moisturizer, and (in the morning) sunscreen.
No. It's oil-free and non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5, so it's not expected to clog pores.
About 12 months after opening (PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place with the cap closed to keep the formula fresh.
Verdict: Marcelle's Foaming Gel Cleanser is a standout value β a gentle, fragrance-free, sulfate-free foaming wash that cleans effectively while respecting the moisture barrier. The stabilized Vitamin C, niacinamide, and Vitamin E are welcome supporting actives (though limited by rinse-off contact and undisclosed levels), and the 500 mL bottle is excellent value at $19.95. A small number of sensitive users found the reformulated foaming version less gentle than before, so patch test if you're very reactive. For normal-to-combination and oily skin wanting a no-frills, ethical, budget-friendly daily cleanser, it's an easy recommendation.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|