Gel De Limpeza GL-01
Gel De Limpeza GL-01
Product Description
Product overview
A foaming gel cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid, 5% Glycerin, and 13% surfactant blend designed to deeply cleanse pores, control excess oil, and improve skin radiance without stripping moisture. Often called "the Brazilian The Ordinary" cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin.
Deep Pore Cleansing
13% surfactant blend with 4 cleansing agents lifts away sebum, makeup, and environmental pollutants effectively.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
13% surfactant blend with 4 cleansing agents lifts away sebum, makeup, and environmental pollutants effectively.
BHA Exfoliation
2% Salicylic Acid penetrates oil inside pores to dissolve dead cells, blackheads, and excess sebum at the source.
Hydrating Cleanse
5% Glycerin keeps skin hydrated and soft during cleansing, preventing the tight and stripped feeling common with BHA cleansers.
Oil Control & Radiance
Clinically proven to improve oiliness, softness, and skin radiance with consistent daily use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA). While wash-off products with up to 2% SA are generally considered lower risk than leave-on formulations, many dermatologists recommend caution during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Glyceryl Oleate (oleic acid ester) and PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, which may feed Malassezia yeast. Consider a fungal acne-safe alternative if this is a concern.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. As a rinse-off product, ingredients have minimal pore-clogging potential since they are washed away immediately.
Principia does not test on animals. The brand is certified cruelty-free and registered with ANVISA (Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency).
Small amount of menthol provides a cooling sensation but may cause irritation for those with very sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema. Patch test recommended.
Formula includes Sodium Laureth Sulfate, a milder sulfate surfactant. Not SLS. Still effective for thorough cleansing but may not suit those avoiding all sulfates.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores. It exfoliates the stratum corneum, dissolves dead skin cells, controls oiliness, and inhibits acne and blackhead formation. Also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- FDA-recognized: 0.5–2% SA is approved as an OTC topical acne treatment in the US.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble BHA penetrates sebum-filled pores, unlike water-soluble AHAs that only work on the skin surface.
- Anti-inflammatory: Structurally related to aspirin, SA can calm inflamed and irritated acne lesions.
Glycerin 5%Proven
A powerful humectant and skin-identical ingredient naturally found in the skin. At 5%, it draws moisture into the skin and maintains hydration during the cleansing process, preventing the tight, stripped feeling common with BHA cleansers.
- Study (2016): Glycerin was found to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Barrier support: Helps keep skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state, protecting against irritation.
- Effective range: Benefits start from as low as 3%, with increased benefits for dry skin at higher concentrations.
Surfactant Blend (4 agents) 13%Proven
A balanced mix of Sodium Laureth Sulfate (anionic), Decyl Glucoside (non-ionic), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (amphoteric), and Coco-Glucoside (non-ionic). This combination delivers effective cleansing while being milder than single-surfactant formulas.
- SLES: Milder than SLS, creates rich foam for thorough cleansing of sebum and makeup.
- Decyl Glucoside: Plant-derived (coconut/glucose), biodegradable, gentle enough for baby shampoos.
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine: Foam stabilizer derived from coconut oil, also hydrating to the skin.
- Coco-Glucoside: Vegetable-origin cleanser producing moderate to high stable foam, biodegradable.
Menthol <1%Functional
A natural compound derived from peppermint oil that provides a cooling sensation on the skin. Also has mild antimicrobial properties that complement the salicylic acid.
- Cooling effect: Creates a refreshing feel during cleansing by sensitizing cold receptors in the skin.
- Antimicrobial: Provides additional antibacterial action supporting acne control.
15 ingredients
Aqua, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PPG-2 Hydroxyethyl Cocamide, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Menthol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the very first step in your routine, morning and evening. If double cleansing, use an oil-based cleanser first, then follow with this gel cleanser as your second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face thoroughly with lukewarm water. The gel works best on damp skin to create a proper lather.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense a small pump of gel onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Massage & Lather
Gently massage over your face in circular motions for 30–60 seconds until a rich foam develops. Focus on oily zones (T-zone, nose, chin).
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Avoid contact with eyes. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your next skincare step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with excess sebum production
- You struggle with acne, blackheads, or clogged pores
- You want a cleanser that actively treats while cleansing
- You prefer fragrance-free, no-frills formulations
- You want a generous 350g size that lasts months
- You appreciate transparent ingredient concentrations
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (may feel stripping)
- You have rosacea or extremely sensitive, reactive skin
- You need a fungal acne (malassezia) safe cleanser
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You prefer sulfate-free cleansing formulas
- You have a known sensitivity to menthol
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The 2% SA and surfactant blend effectively control excess sebum without over-stripping. Leaves skin matte and fresh.
Great for combo skin. 5% Glycerin keeps dry areas comfortable while BHA targets the oily T-zone. Use once daily if cheeks feel tight.
Designed for this skin type. Salicylic acid unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, and has antibacterial action against acne-causing bacteria.
Works well as a daily cleanser. Good preventative option for occasional breakouts. Use once daily to avoid unnecessary dryness.
May feel drying with twice-daily use despite the 5% glycerin. Best used only in the evening, followed by a rich moisturizer.
Contains menthol and SLES which may irritate reactive skin. Patch test first. Consider the Principia GL-02 (sensitive skin version) instead.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8–12Cleaner, Less Oily Skin
Noticeable reduction in daily oiliness and a cleaner, more matte complexion. Skin may feel slightly tighter as it adjusts to the salicylic acid.
70% noticed improvementPore Clearing & Mild Purging
BHA begins to unclog pores. Some users may experience mild purging (small breakouts) as trapped debris is pushed to the surface. Blackheads start to diminish.
55% noticed fewer blackheadsVisible Acne Reduction
Active breakouts decrease. Skin texture becomes smoother and more refined. Oil production is more balanced throughout the day.
65% noticed fewer breakoutsRadiant, Balanced Complexion
Full benefits realized with consistent use. Improved skin radiance, minimized pore appearance, controlled oiliness, and significantly fewer blemishes.
80% reported improved radianceRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective oil control with visible results from week one
- Generous 350g size lasts 4–6 months with daily use
- Transparent labeling with exact active percentages disclosed
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free formula
- Excellent value for money — often called "Brazil's The Ordinary"
- Rich, satisfying foam from the 4-surfactant blend
- 5% Glycerin prevents the excessive dryness typical of SA cleansers
- ANVISA-registered (Brazilian health authority approved)
Criticized
- Can feel drying with twice-daily use, especially for non-oily skin types
- Contains SLES sulfate — not suitable for sulfate-free routines
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Menthol may irritate sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- Limited international availability outside of Brazil-focused retailers
- Basic plastic pump packaging — functional but not luxurious
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also contains 2% Salicylic Acid and menthol in a gel cleanser. Adds Zinc Gluconate for extra oil control and Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA). Smaller 200ml size but widely available globally. French pharmacy brand with strong dermatologist backing.
Uses Salicylic Acid with Ceramides, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid for added barrier repair. Sulfate-free formula is gentler but less thorough at oil removal. 237ml size. Widely available at drugstores everywhere.
Contains 2% Salicylic Acid with Zinc to regulate sebum. Simpler formula without glycerin for hydration. Smaller 150ml tube. More affordable per unit but less product overall. Sulfate-free and fragrance-free.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEPrincipia GL-01
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life is 36 months (3 years) from date of manufacture.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use on children.
Large plastic bottle with pump dispenser. Simple, functional design with clear ingredient labeling and active percentages on the front.
No — 350g exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller travel bottle or purchase a travel-size version if available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The GL-01 contains 2% Salicylic Acid (a BHA). While low-concentration salicylic acid in wash-off products is generally considered lower risk than leave-on treatments, many dermatologists and health organizations recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Salicylic acid is related to aspirin, which is contraindicated in pregnancy. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using this product while pregnant or nursing. Consider the Principia GL-02 (without salicylic acid) as a safer alternative during this time.
No, this cleanser is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Glyceryl Oleate (an oleic acid ester) and PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, both of which can potentially feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider a fungal acne-safe cleanser such as the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or a simple micellar water instead.
Yes, according to Principia, there are practically no restrictions for combined use with other actives. However, since the GL-01 already contains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), layering additional BHA or AHA products immediately after cleansing may increase irritation risk, especially for beginners. If using retinol, apply the cleanser first, let your skin dry, then apply retinol. For Vitamin C serums, cleanse, pat dry, then apply your serum. If you use an AHA/BHA toner (like Principia AL-7), alternate days or use the toner in the evening and the cleanser in the morning to avoid over-exfoliation.
The GL-01 is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 2% salicylic acid and 13% surfactant blend are specifically formulated to target excess oil, clogged pores, and breakouts. Normal skin types can also benefit from once-daily use. For dry or sensitive skin, this cleanser may feel too stripping — consider the Principia GL-02 (formulated for sensitive skin with 10% glycerin and no salicylic acid) as a gentler alternative.
Most users notice reduced oiliness within the first week of consistent use. Pore clearing and blackhead reduction typically become visible in weeks 2–3, though some users may experience mild purging during this phase. Significant acne reduction is commonly reported by weeks 4–6. Full benefits including improved radiance, smoother texture, and balanced oil production are typically achieved with 8–12 weeks of consistent daily use.
The GL-01 goes as the very first step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. Apply to damp skin, massage until lather forms, then rinse. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). If you double cleanse, use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water first to remove makeup and sunscreen, then follow with the GL-01 as your second cleanse. 40% of SkinSort community users use it both morning and evening.
The GL-01 has a very low comedogenic risk, rated 1 out of 5. As a rinse-off cleanser, ingredients make only brief contact with your skin and are washed away completely. The salicylic acid actually works to unclog pores rather than block them. Glycerin has a comedogenic rating of 0. The formula contains no oils, silicones, or heavy occlusives. This cleanser is very unlikely to clog pores for the vast majority of users.
The GL-01 has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Unopened, it has a 3-year shelf life from the date of manufacture, as stated by Principia. The preservative system (Phenoxyethanol + Caprylyl Glycol, known as Optiphen) keeps the formula stable and free from microbial contamination. Store in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing the pump to standing water in the shower to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: The Principia Gel de Limpeza GL-01 is an excellent value-driven BHA cleanser that delivers real results for oily and acne-prone skin. With transparent labeling (2% Salicylic Acid, 5% Glycerin, 13% surfactants), a generous 350g size, and a clean formula free from parabens, fragrance, and silicones, it punches well above its price point. The 5% glycerin is a smart addition that sets it apart from competitors by preventing the stripped, tight feeling common with SA cleansers. Drawbacks include the presence of SLES (not sulfate-free), menthol that may irritate sensitive skin, and it is not fungal acne safe. Best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin — if that describes you, this Brazilian dermacosmetics gem is well worth trying.
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
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Gluconate
Skin Conditioning, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|