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Fresh Foaming Cleanser

Fresh Foaming Cleanser

Product Description

Product overview

Made in USA DRUGSTORE

A gentle, all-in-one foaming facial cleanser and makeup remover that creates a rich lather to wash away dirt, oil, and even waterproof makeup without over-drying skin. Dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and ophthalmologist-tested for sensitive eyes.

Dermatologist Tested Non-Comedogenic Ophthalmologist Tested Hypoallergenic Oil-Free Soap-Free Alcohol-Free Removes Waterproof Makeup
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
6.7 - 9.6 fl oz
Type
Foaming Gel
Skin Type
Normal to Oily
Use
AM & PM
Price
$8 - $12
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

All-in-One Formula

Combines makeup remover and facial cleanser in one step, removing even waterproof mascara and eyeliner without separate products.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Clear Gel
Scent
Light Fresh
Absorption
Rinses Clean
Finish
Clean, Fresh

All-in-One Formula

Combines makeup remover and facial cleanser in one step, removing even waterproof mascara and eyeliner without separate products.

Eye-Safe Formula

Ophthalmologist-tested and safe for sensitive eyes, won't sting or irritate the delicate eye area during makeup removal.

Glycerin-Enriched

Contains glycerin as the second ingredient to help maintain skin hydration while cleansing, preventing that tight, stripped feeling.

Rich Foaming Lather

Creates a satisfying foam that thoroughly cleanses pores and removes impurities without leaving residue behind.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains DMDM Hydantoin, a formaldehyde-releasing preservative. While generally considered safe in rinse-off products, some prefer to avoid during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Contains Glycol Stearate, a fatty acid ester that can potentially feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those prone to fungal acne.

Non-Comedogenic

Formulated to rinse completely clean without leaving pore-clogging residue. Suitable for acne-prone skin (non-fungal).

Contains Fragrance

Contains added fragrance which may be a concern for those with fragrance sensitivities. Not fragrance-free.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Glycerin #2Proven

A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, helping to maintain hydration levels even in a cleansing product. Prevents the tight, dry feeling often associated with foaming cleansers.

  • Function: Humectant and skin-conditioning agent
  • Research: Studies show glycerin is more effective than hyaluronic acid at retaining moisture in the skin
Excellent moisturizing ingredient that helps balance the cleansing action

Lauryl Glucoside & Decyl Glucoside #3-4Proven

Gentle, vegetable-derived surfactants made from coconut or palm kernel oil and glucose. Known for being mild to the skin while providing effective cleansing and moderate foam.

  • Function: Gentle cleansing agents (surfactants)
  • Source: 100% vegetable origin, biodegradable
  • Benefit: Milder than traditional sulfates

Cocamidopropyl Betaine #5Proven

A widely-used, mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. Excellent at stabilizing foam and balancing the formula to prevent over-cleansing while effectively removing dirt and makeup.

  • Function: Foam booster and mild cleanser
  • Research: 2012 study showed pure, high-grade versions do not cause allergic reactions

Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate #8Promising

A mild, amino acid-based surfactant derived from sarcosine and coconut fatty acids. Known for improving the mildness of cleansing formulas while boosting foam.

  • Function: Mild surfactant and foam booster
  • Benefit: Gentler than traditional sulfates

DMDM Hydantoin #13Controversial

A preservative that works by slowly releasing small amounts of formaldehyde to prevent microbial growth. While FDA-approved and effective, it remains controversial among some consumers.

  • Function: Preservative with antimicrobial and antifungal properties
  • Regulation: EU allows up to 0.6% in cosmetics
  • CIR Review: Concluded "safe as used in cosmetics" in 1988 and 2008
Formaldehyde-releasing preservative. Some prefer to avoid during pregnancy or if sensitive to formaldehyde.

15 ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Lauryl Glucoside, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycereth-7, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Glycol Stearate, Cocamide MEA, Fragrance, DMDM Hydantoin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid

FREE FROM: Parabens, Soap, Oil, Alcohol, Dyes, Phthalates
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
This Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Eye Cream
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Use as your first and only cleansing step. For heavy makeup, consider double cleansing with an oil cleanser first.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Wet Your Face

Splash lukewarm water on your face and hands to prepare the skin for cleansing.

2

Pump & Lather

Pump 1-2 pumps of cleanser into your hands and work into a foamy lather.

3

Massage Gently

Apply the lather to your face using gentle, circular motions. Massage around eyes several times to remove all eye makeup.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse completely with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft, clean towel.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You wear makeup daily (including waterproof)
  • You have normal to oily skin
  • You want an all-in-one cleansing solution
  • You prefer drugstore-priced products
  • You have sensitive eyes that react to other cleansers
  • You want a rinse-off cleanser (not micellar)

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne or are prone to it
  • You are pregnant and avoiding formaldehyde releasers
  • You have very dry or dehydrated skin
  • You are sensitive to fragrances
  • You prefer completely natural ingredients
  • You want a fragrance-free formula
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Effectively removes excess oil and leaves skin feeling clean without residue. Ideal for oily and combination skin types.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances oily T-zone while glycerin helps maintain hydration in drier areas. Great all-around choice.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Perfect daily cleanser that maintains skin's natural balance. Works well for those with few skin concerns.

Dry Skin
Moderate

May feel slightly drying for very dry skin types. Follow with a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Hypoallergenic formula, but contains fragrance. Patch test first if highly reactive to scented products.

Acne-Prone
Good

Non-comedogenic formula that won't clog pores. Note: Not suitable for fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis).

08

Results timeline

1 MONTH+
Immediately

Makeup-Free, Fresh Skin

Skin feels clean and refreshed. All traces of makeup, including waterproof mascara, are effectively removed.

95% noticed immediate cleansing
1-2 Weeks

Clearer, Less Congested Pores

With consistent use, pores appear less congested as daily buildup is effectively removed. Skin texture feels smoother.

80% noticed improved texture
1 Month+

Balanced, Healthy-Looking Skin

Continued use maintains clean, balanced skin. Many long-term users report using this product for years without switching.

85% continued long-term use
09

Ratings by platform

16K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.6
Rating
15,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some batches may differ in texture; older loyal customers upset about potential reformulations
Target
4.4
Rating
928+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can be slightly drying for some users; occasionally hard to find in stores
Walgreens/CVS
4.5
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Doesn't foam as much as expected; fragrance may be too strong for some
iHerb
4.3
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Bottle is large but may not foam as expected; scent similar to dish soap for some
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Effectively removes all makeup including waterproof mascara
  • Gentle on eyes - no stinging or irritation
  • Non-comedogenic, won't clog pores
  • Affordable drugstore price point
  • Rinses completely clean with no residue
  • Beloved by loyal users for 10-25+ years
  • All-in-one formula saves time
  • Large bottle size offers good value

Criticized

  • Contains DMDM Hydantoin (formaldehyde releaser)
  • Not fragrance-free
  • Can be slightly drying for dry skin types
  • Not fungal acne safe
  • Doesn't foam as much as some expect
  • Occasionally difficult to find in stores
  • Pump mechanism occasionally fails
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Foaming Facial Cleanser
$14.99
Similar Price

Contains ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for added skin barrier support. Fragrance-free and fungal acne safe. Better for those avoiding formaldehyde releasers.

80% Match
Daily Facial Cleanser
$10.99
Budget Pick

Similar gentle cleansing action with niacinamide and vitamin B5. Contains fragrance but different preservative system. Not as effective at removing heavy makeup.

75% Match
Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Cleanser
$15.99

Formulated for sensitive skin with thermal spring water. Fragrance-free option available. May not remove waterproof makeup as effectively as Neutrogena.

70% Match
Gentle Facial Cleanser
$8.99
Budget Pick

Free of common chemical irritants, ideal for extremely sensitive skin. Very gentle formula but less effective at removing heavy or waterproof makeup.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Foaming Facial Cleanser
Key Benefit Ceramides + Niacinamide
Size 12 fl oz
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Eye-Safe Not specifically
Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Key Benefit Thermal Spring Water
Size 6.76 fl oz
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Check formula
Eye-Safe Not specifically
Ultra Gentle Cleanser
Key Benefit Extra gentle formula
Size 12 fl oz
Fragrance-Free Yes (Foaming version)
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Eye-Safe Not specifically
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Packaging

Pump bottle with leak-proof clip. Remove clip by sliding sideways, then twist pump to open.

Travel Friendly

6.7 fl oz size not TSA-approved for carry-on. Decant into smaller container or pack in checked luggage.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

This cleanser contains DMDM Hydantoin, a formaldehyde-releasing preservative that some experts recommend avoiding during pregnancy out of an abundance of caution. While the FDA considers it safe in rinse-off products at approved concentrations, and it's been reviewed as "safe as used" by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board, pregnant individuals who prefer to avoid formaldehyde releasers may want to choose alternatives like CeraVe or Cetaphil cleansers. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Glycol Stearate, a fatty acid ester that can potentially feed malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you're prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Foaming Cleanser (fragrance-free version), which are fungal acne safe.

Yes! This is a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that works well with active ingredients. Since it rinses completely clean without leaving residue, it won't interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of your retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. Just ensure you're not over-cleansing (once or twice daily is sufficient) to maintain your skin barrier when using actives.

This cleanser is best suited for normal to oily skin types. It's excellent for combination skin, effectively cleansing oily areas while glycerin helps maintain some hydration. Those with very dry or dehydrated skin may find it slightly drying and should follow with hydrating products. It's hypoallergenic but contains fragrance, so those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.

As a cleanser, results are immediate—your skin will feel clean and makeup-free right after use. With consistent daily use over 1-2 weeks, you may notice clearer, less congested pores as daily buildup is effectively removed. Long-term users (many report using this for 10-25+ years) appreciate how it maintains balanced, healthy-looking skin over time.

This cleanser should be the first step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. It's an all-in-one formula that removes makeup and cleanses in one step. If you wear very heavy makeup or sunscreen, you may want to double cleanse by using an oil-based cleanser first, followed by this foaming cleanser. After cleansing, follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and SPF (morning only).

No, this cleanser is non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. It's specifically formulated to rinse completely clean without leaving pore-clogging residue behind. It's suitable for acne-prone skin (bacterial acne) but is NOT recommended for fungal acne due to the Glycol Stearate content.

This cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and effectiveness. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. The pump bottle design helps protect the formula from contamination during use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser is a reliable, affordable drugstore classic that has earned its loyal following over decades. It excels at removing makeup—even stubborn waterproof formulas—while remaining gentle enough for sensitive eyes. The glycerin-enriched formula prevents excessive drying, and the non-comedogenic formula works well for normal to oily skin types. However, it's not the perfect choice for everyone: the presence of DMDM Hydantoin makes it questionable for pregnancy, Glycol Stearate makes it unsuitable for fungal acne, and the added fragrance won't suit those with sensitivities. For those without these concerns, it remains an excellent value that delivers exactly what it promises—clean, fresh, makeup-free skin.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

Awesome, I Understand!

Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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 «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.

muscle 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

Awesome, I Understand!

Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Citric Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
60% 6% 33%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 15 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 B
Lauryl Glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing
1 B
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
4 B
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
1 Unknown
Glycereth-7
Solvent, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS