Fresh'n Up Gel Cleanser
Fresh'n Up Gel Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, fragrance-free gel cleanser enriched with Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Calendula Extract that removes makeup, excess oil, and impurities without stripping your skin. Dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
Deep Cleansing Without Stripping
Coco-Glucoside, a gentle plant-derived surfactant, lifts away makeup, dirt, and excess oil without disrupting your skin's natural moisture barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Cleansing Without Stripping
Coco-Glucoside, a gentle plant-derived surfactant, lifts away makeup, dirt, and excess oil without disrupting your skin's natural moisture barrier.
Botanical Soothing Complex
A trio of Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Calendula Extract work together to calm irritation, reduce redness, and leave skin feeling comfortable after cleansing.
Hydrating Cleanse
Glycerin draws moisture into the skin while cleansing, preventing that tight, dry feeling often caused by harsher cleansers.
Minimalist & Clean Formula
Only 14 ingredients — free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and added fragrance. Designed for even the most reactive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Grape Seed Oil which has fatty acids that may feed malassezia. However, as a rinse-off product, the contact time is minimal and risk is low for most users.
No comedogenic ingredients detected. Dermatologically tested and confirmed non-comedogenic by the brand. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and formulated with soothing botanicals. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Alcohol appears lower on the ingredient list (position 12 of 14), suggesting a very low concentration used as a solvent, not as a primary ingredient. Unlikely to cause dryness at this level.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, and niacinamide. As a rinse-off cleanser, it does not interfere with active serums or treatments applied afterward.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5-10%Proven
One of the most effective and well-researched humectant moisturizers in skincare. Glycerin attracts water to the upper layers of the skin, maintaining hydration during the cleansing process and preventing moisture loss.
- Function: Humectant — draws moisture to the skin and helps maintain the skin's lipid barrier in a healthy state.
- Research: Effective from as low as 3%, with increased benefits at higher concentrations for dry skin.
- Comedogenicity: 0 — will not clog pores.
Coco-Glucoside ~5-7%Proven
A mild, plant-derived surfactant (cleansing agent) sourced from coconut and glucose. Creates a moderate, stable foam and effectively removes makeup, oil, and impurities without harsh stripping.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and fruit sugar (glucose). Biodegradable and Ecocert approved.
- Function: Primary cleansing agent — allows water and oil to mix so impurities can be rinsed away.
- Gentleness: Classified as one of the mildest surfactants available, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder <1%Proven
Concentrated aloe vera in powdered form, renowned for its moisturizing and soothing properties. Helps calm skin irritation and delivers hydration while cleansing.
- Function: Moisturizer and skin soother — penetrates the skin to supply moisture to underlying tissues.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and hydrating properties supported by extensive research.
- Form: Powdered form allows for higher stability and longer shelf life than liquid aloe juice.
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract <1%Promising
Extracted from marigold flowers, calendula is a powerful anti-inflammatory botanical traditionally used to reduce redness, irritation, and promote skin healing.
- Function: Skin conditioning agent with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Research: Studies show topical calendula application has antioxidant activity and supports skin barrier repair.
- Comedogenicity: 0 — safe for acne-prone skin.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil ~0.15-0.7%Proven
A lightweight emollient oil rich in antioxidant polyphenols, linoleic acid (55-77%), and vitamin E. Helps protect the skin barrier while providing antioxidant benefits.
- Function: Emollient and antioxidant — smooths skin and protects against free radical damage.
- Composition: High in linoleic acid (good for acne-prone skin) with lower oleic acid content (12-27%).
- Absorption: Very lightweight oil that absorbs quickly without heavy residue.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract <1%Proven
German chamomile extract, one of the most widely used medicinal herbs. Contains chamazulene and bisabolol, both of which demonstrate notable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
- Function: Soothing and anti-inflammatory — reduces redness and calms irritated skin.
- Active Compounds: Chamazulene, bisabolol, matricine, apigenin, and luteolin provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Comedogenicity: 0 — safe for all skin types.
14 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Coco-Glucoside, Cellulose Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your AM and PM routine. If double cleansing in the evening, use an oil-based cleanser or balm first, followed by this gel cleanser as your second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Apply a small amount (about a pea-sized drop) of the gel cleanser into the palms of your hands.
Massage Gently
Work the gel into a light lather between your palms, then gently massage over your face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on areas with makeup or excess oil.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with your toner or next skincare step while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive or easily irritated skin that reacts to harsh cleansers
- You want a simple, no-fuss daily cleanser with a short, clean ingredient list
- You need a fragrance-free option due to skin sensitivities or allergies
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe and breastfeeding-safe cleanser
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainably packaged skincare
- You want a gentle cleanser that removes light-to-moderate makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You wear heavy or waterproof makeup (this cleanser may not fully remove it alone)
- You want a deep-foaming, high-lather cleansing experience
- You need a cleanser with active exfoliating ingredients (AHA/BHA)
- You have severe fungal acne and want a strictly FA-safe formula
- You prefer a cleanser with a pleasant scent or luxurious texture
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess oil without over-stripping. Lightweight gel won't add greasiness. Very oily skin may prefer a slightly stronger foaming cleanser.
Glycerin provides hydration during cleansing, preventing tightness. Gentle enough for dry skin, though a cream cleanser may be even more nourishing.
Ideal balance of cleansing power and hydration. Clears oily areas without drying out drier zones. An excellent everyday option for combination skin.
Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and packed with soothing botanicals. Formulated specifically with sensitive skin in mind. A top choice for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic with zero pore-clogging ingredients. No active acne-fighting ingredients, but an excellent gentle cleanser base for acne treatment routines.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Clean & Refreshed Feel
Skin feels clean, hydrated, and comfortable after the first use. No tightness or dryness. Makeup and surface impurities are visibly removed.
95% noticed immediatelyReduced Redness & Irritation
The calming botanical complex begins to show visible results. Skin appears less red and irritated, especially for those switching from harsher cleansers.
88% noticed improvementClearer, More Even Complexion
Consistent daily use leads to a noticeably clearer complexion. Pores appear cleaner and skin texture feels smoother and more balanced overall.
98% noticed a clearer complexion*Healthier Skin Barrier
Long-term use with the gentle, non-stripping formula supports a healthier skin barrier. Less reactivity, fewer breakouts from irritation, and more balanced oil production.
96% would replace their usual cleanser*Ratings by platform
480+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — doesn't strip, dry out, or irritate sensitive skin
- Short, clean ingredient list with only 14 ingredients
- Fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free
- Leaves skin feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed after cleansing
- Great value for money at an affordable price point
- Effectively reduces redness and soothes irritation over time
- 100% recyclable packaging — environmentally conscious choice
Criticized
- Has a slight chemical/soapy scent that some users find off-putting
- 150ml size runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Not strong enough to remove heavy or waterproof makeup alone
- Gel can pool in the cap if stored upside down
- No active acne-fighting or exfoliating ingredients
- Limited availability in some US retailers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar gentle, fragrance-free gel cleanser with a short ingredient list. Also targets sensitive skin. Slightly more basic formula without calendula or chamomile botanicals.
Another fragrance-free, gentle cleanser formulated for sensitive skin. Contains more ingredients but similarly non-irritating. Widely available at drugstores across the US.
A gentle foaming cleanser with niacinamide and ceramides for sensitive skin. Slightly more advanced formula with skin barrier support, but at a higher price point per ml.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not store upside down to prevent gel from pooling in the cap.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap · 100% recyclable packaging
Yes, 150ml is over the 100ml carry-on limit. Transfer to a smaller container for air travel, or purchase the 10ml sample size for trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters — all ingredients commonly flagged during pregnancy. The formula uses only gentle botanical extracts and basic cleansing agents that are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The formula contains Grape Seed Oil, which has fatty acids (particularly oleic acid at 12-27%) that can potentially feed malassezia yeast. However, since this is a rinse-off product with very brief skin contact time and the oil is present in very low concentrations (estimated 0.15-0.7%), the risk is minimal for most people. If you have severe fungal acne, you may want to choose a strictly FA-safe cleanser instead.
Yes, absolutely. As a gentle, rinse-off cleanser with no active exfoliating ingredients at significant concentrations, it pairs perfectly with all actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, and niacinamide. In fact, its gentle formula makes it an ideal cleanser for routines that include potent actives, as it won't add extra irritation. Simply cleanse first, pat dry, then apply your active treatments.
This cleanser is formulated for all skin types but excels particularly for sensitive and combination skin. It's dermatologically tested and suitable for reactive, easily irritated skin. Oily skin types will appreciate its ability to remove excess sebum without over-stripping, while dry skin types benefit from the glycerin-based hydration. It's also a solid choice for acne-prone skin thanks to its non-comedogenic formula.
You'll notice clean, refreshed skin immediately after the first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, many users report reduced redness and irritation. In a brand-conducted consumer study of 50 women aged 18-35, 98% reported a clearer complexion after 30 days of daily use, and 92% felt it effectively removed impurities. For best results, use twice daily — morning and evening.
It's your Step 1 — the very first product in both your morning and evening skincare routines. Cleanse first, then follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). If you double cleanse in the evening, use an oil-based cleanser or balm first to break down makeup and sunscreen, then follow with this gel cleanser as your second cleanse.
No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5 — meaning no pore-clogging ingredients were detected in the formula. It is officially labeled as non-comedogenic by Bondi Sands and has been dermatologically tested to confirm it won't clog pores. It's safe for acne-prone skin and can be used daily without concern about breakouts from the cleanser itself.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. With twice-daily use, the 150ml bottle typically lasts around 6-8 weeks depending on how much product you dispense per use. Store it upright in a cool, dry place to maintain product integrity. If the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably, discard and replace even if within the PAO window.
Verdict: The Bondi Sands Fresh'n Up Gel Cleanser is an excellent everyday cleanser for anyone who values simplicity, gentleness, and clean ingredients. With only 14 ingredients, it delivers effective cleansing without the irritation, dryness, or pore-clogging risks of more complex formulas. The soothing botanical trio of Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Calendula makes it especially well-suited for sensitive and reactive skin. While it won't remove heavy makeup on its own and the bottle size could be larger, it's a reliable, affordable, and ethically made cleanser that earns its place as a solid daily staple. Ideal as a gentle first or second cleanse in any skincare routine.
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 skin’s 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 «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.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cellulose Gum
Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Binding Agent, Binding, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|