Gentle Antioxidant Cleanser
Gentle Antioxidant Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, daily facial cleanser powered by the exclusive V8 Peptide Complex® and award-winning antioxidants. Fortified with anti-pollutant boosters that trap and remove dirt and excess sebum, leaving skin super hydrated, refreshed, and protected from environmental stressors. Suitable for all skin types including reactive, rosacea, post-peel, laser, and post-surgery skin.
V8 Peptide Complex®
Exclusive multi-functional peptide blend that targets the five major causes of skin aging: collagen breakdown, inflammation, glycation, photo-damage, and oxidation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYV8 Peptide Complex®
Exclusive multi-functional peptide blend that targets the five major causes of skin aging: collagen breakdown, inflammation, glycation, photo-damage, and oxidation.
Anti-Pollution Shield
Fortified with anti-pollutant boosters including Venuceane™ and Lipochroman-6 to trap and neutralize environmental aggressors while cleansing.
Barrier-Respecting Formula
Mild amino acid and betaine surfactants cleanse effectively without stripping. Shea butter and glycerin maintain the skin barrier intact.
Post-Procedure Safe
Gentle enough for use after chemical peels, laser treatments, and surgery. Recommended by professional skin experts and dermal therapists.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Oil (cinnamon essential oil) in a low concentration. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 80, Thermus Thermophilus Ferment, Isohexadecane, and Shea Butter which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 comedogenic. Key surfactants and glycerin score 0, while Shea Butter scores 0–2. Very low risk of clogging pores for most users.
Uses mild amino acid-based and amphoteric surfactants (Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate). Suitable for reactive and rosacea-prone skin.
Free from parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, synthetic fragrances, colours, and microbeads. Vegan and cruelty-free.
Contains Alcohol Denat in a lower concentration (listed after active peptides). Unlikely to cause drying in a rinse-off cleanser but worth noting for ultra-sensitive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSV8 Peptide Complex® (Acetyl Octapeptide-3 / SNAP-8) 0.005%Proven
O Cosmedics' world-exclusive multi-functional peptide blend. The key peptide SNAP-8 is a next-generation version of Argireline that targets muscle contraction to help reduce expression lines, especially around the forehead and eyes.
- Mechanism: Modulates the SNARE complex to inhibit neurotransmitter release, reducing muscle contraction similar to botulinum toxin.
- Clinical Data: Manufacturer studies show a 34.98% wrinkle reduction with 10% SNAP-8 solution (0.005% pure peptide) applied twice daily for 28 days.
- Note: In a cleanser, contact time is limited, so peptide benefits are supplementary rather than primary.
Lipochroman-6 (Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol) 0.01–0.05%Proven
A synthetic super-antioxidant structurally related to Vitamin E. Known as the "master antioxidant" because it neutralizes both Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS), offering dual-pathway protection.
- Potency: Outperforms BHT, trolox, and tocopherol (Vitamin E) in TBA-assay antioxidant testing.
- Effective Dose: Functional at just 0.01–0.05%, indicating extremely high potency.
- Benefit: Protects skin cells from oxidative and nitrosative stress caused by UV radiation and pollution.
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid, a natural skin moisturizing factor. Binds up to 1,000 times its weight in water to deliver deep hydration, leaving skin plumped and refreshed after cleansing.
- Function: Humectant that draws moisture into the skin and prevents transepidermal water loss.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating of 0, irritation potential of 0. Suitable for all skin types.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar with clinically proven anti-aging, brightening, anti-acne, and barrier-repair benefits. In this cleanser, it helps regulate sebum, even skin tone, and support the skin's immune function.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
- Barrier: Increases ceramide synthesis to strengthen the skin barrier.
- Anti-Acne: Regulates sebum production and reduces inflammation at 4–5% concentration in leave-on products.
Venuceane™ (Thermus Thermophilus Ferment)Promising
A biotechnology ingredient derived from deep-sea bacteria found in hydrothermal vents. Provides protective action against glycation (sugar-induced skin aging) and UV radiation damage.
- Anti-Glycation: Helps prevent the cross-linking of collagen fibers caused by sugar molecules, maintaining skin elasticity.
- UV Defense: Strengthens cellular resistance to ultraviolet-induced damage.
ZeoliteProven
A naturally occurring mineral with a microporous structure that acts like a molecular sieve. Binds to dirt, excess sebum, and environmental toxins for a deep and effective cleanse without harsh stripping.
- Mechanism: Ion-exchange and adsorption properties trap impurities at a molecular level.
- Benefit: Provides thorough cleansing while being gentle enough for compromised skin.
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii)Proven
A rich botanical butter harvested from African Karité trees. Provides long-lasting moisture, skin regeneration, and antioxidant protection with naturally occurring vitamins A, E, and F.
- Emollient: Creates a protective moisture barrier while soothing and conditioning the skin.
- Antioxidants: Contains quercetin and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) for additional free-radical defence.
24 ingredients
Aqua, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycerin, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol, Thermus Thermophilus Ferment, Niacinamide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Oil, Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg) Kernel Oil, Alcohol Denat, Zeolite, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Polysorbate 80
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanse in a double-cleansing routine (after O Cosmedics Nourishing Cleansing Balm). Can also be used as a standalone morning cleanser. Follow with Micellar Treatment Gel for the perfect cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Your Skin
Splash your face with warm water to open pores and prepare the skin for cleansing.
Apply & Lather
Dispense a small amount onto fingertips and massage into a gentle lather on face, eyes, and décolletage using circular motions.
Rinse Thoroughly
Remove with the O Skin Shammy or a soft face cloth, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Pat dry gently.
Double Cleanse (PM)
For evening routines, pre-cleanse with O Cosmedics Nourishing Cleansing Balm first, then follow with this cleanser. A second cleanse is recommended if wearing makeup.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle daily cleanser that doesn't strip your skin barrier
- You have reactive, rosacea-prone, or sensitive skin
- You've recently had a chemical peel, laser treatment, or surgery
- You want anti-aging and antioxidant benefits built into your cleanser
- You need a cleanser safe for eyes and as a makeup remover
- You prefer professional-grade cosmedical skincare
- Teenagers with changing hormonal skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — contains FA triggers
- You want a deep exfoliating cleanser with AHA/BHA actives
- You need a completely fragrance-free formula (contains natural essential oils)
- You have known sensitivities to cinnamon or nutmeg essential oils
- You're on a strict budget — A$65 is premium pricing for a cleanser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESZeolite and niacinamide help manage excess sebum. Mild surfactants cleanse without over-stripping. Some may prefer a stronger cleanser for very oily skin.
Shea butter, glycerin, and sodium hyaluronate maintain hydration during cleansing. Leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized, never tight or stripped.
Balances well across different face zones. Cleanses oily areas while keeping dry patches comfortable and hydrated.
Specifically formulated for reactive skin. Amino acid surfactants and aloe vera soothe while cleansing. Safe after peels and laser. Patch test recommended if sensitive to essential oils.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Niacinamide helps with breakouts and inflammation. Not suitable for fungal acne. For congested skin, pair with O Cosmedics Corrective Cleanser & Peel.
V8 Peptide Complex (SNAP-8) and Lipochroman-6 provide active anti-aging benefits. Venuceane protects against glycation. Excellent prep step for anti-aging serums.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated immediately after first use. No tightness or dryness. Gentle vanilla-coconut scent leaves skin feeling fresh.
95% noticedImproved Skin Texture
Skin begins to feel smoother and more balanced. Redness and irritation from previous harsh cleansers starts to calm. Pores appear cleaner.
80% noticedVisible Radiance
Niacinamide and antioxidant benefits become visible. Skin appears brighter, more even-toned, and healthier. Barrier feels stronger and less reactive.
70% noticedCumulative Anti-Aging Benefits
With consistent twice-daily use as part of a full routine, the antioxidant and peptide ingredients contribute to firmer-looking, more youthful skin. Best results when paired with O Cosmedics serums and hydrators.
60% noticedRatings by platform
52+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — no stripping, tightness, or irritation even on the most sensitive skin
- Leaves skin feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed after every wash
- Safe for post-peel, post-laser, and post-surgery skin recovery
- Pleasant, subtle vanilla-coconut scent that isn’t overpowering
- Multi-functional with anti-aging peptides and powerful antioxidants
- Works as an effective eye makeup remover
- Clean, vegan, cruelty-free formula with no parabens or sulfates
- Suitable for the whole family, including teenagers
Criticized
- Premium price point (A$65 / ~$44 USD) for a cleanser
- Not widely available in general retail — requires authorized stockists
- 130ml tube may run out quickly with twice-daily use
- Not fungal acne safe due to ferments, polysorbate 80, and esters
- Contains Alcohol Denat (though in low concentration)
- Contains essential oils (cinnamon, nutmeg) which may irritate ultra-sensitive individuals
- Limited international availability outside Australia and New Zealand
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESGentle, hydrating formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Lacks the antioxidant peptide complex and anti-pollution boosters, but delivers comparable mildness and hydration at a fraction of the price.
French pharmacy cleanser with niacinamide, ceramides, and prebiotic thermal water. Similarly mild and barrier-friendly but without the V8 Peptide Complex or Lipochroman-6 antioxidant technology.
Mild, affordable daily cleanser suitable for sensitive skin. Much simpler formula without peptides, antioxidants, or anti-aging ingredients. Good basic cleanser but lacks the cosmedical active benefits.
Another professional-grade gentle cleanser with rosemary extract and AHA. Similar premium positioning and mildness but uses different active technology. Slightly more exfoliating than the O Cosmedics version.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to preserve the antioxidant actives.
Squeeze tube (130ml). Hygienic dispensing with minimal air exposure to protect active ingredients.
No — 130ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller container for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone, which are the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Oil (cinnamon essential oil) and Myristica Fragrans Kernel Oil (nutmeg essential oil) in low concentrations. While these are unlikely to pose a risk in a rinse-off product, it is best to consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this cleanser is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients flagged as potential Malassezia triggers: Polysorbate 80 (an emulsifier that can feed yeast), Thermus Thermophilus Ferment (a fermented ingredient), Isohexadecane (an ester), and Butyrospermum Parkii / Shea Butter (a fatty acid-rich ingredient). If you have diagnosed fungal acne, consider alternatives like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane which are FA-safe.
Yes. Because this is a gentle, non-exfoliating, rinse-off cleanser, it pairs well with all active treatments including retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs. In fact, its barrier-respecting formula makes it an ideal prep step before applying potent actives, as it cleanses without disrupting the skin barrier or increasing sensitivity. O Cosmedics recommends using it as the foundation of any active skincare routine.
This cleanser is formulated for all skin types, and that is genuinely one of its strengths. It is particularly excellent for sensitive, reactive, and rosacea-prone skin due to its mild amino acid surfactants. It also works beautifully for dry, combination, and mature skin. Oily skin types can use it effectively, though those with very oily or congested skin may prefer to pair it with the O Cosmedics Corrective Cleanser & Peel for a deeper cleanse.
You will notice immediate comfort — skin feels soft, clean, and hydrated from the very first use. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, skin texture improves and any irritation from previous harsh cleansers calms down. By week 4, antioxidant and niacinamide benefits become visible with brighter, more even-toned skin. The anti-aging peptide and antioxidant benefits are cumulative and best realized over 2–3 months of consistent use as part of a complete O Cosmedics routine.
It goes in Step 1 (or Step 2 if double cleansing). In the morning, use it as your first and only cleanser. In the evening, O Cosmedics recommends pre-cleansing with the Nourishing Cleansing Balm first to remove makeup and sunscreen, then following with this cleanser as your second cleanse. After cleansing, follow with Micellar Treatment Gel, then your serums, eye care, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
This cleanser has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The primary surfactants (Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate) and key humectants (Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate) all score 0 for comedogenicity. Shea Butter can score 0–2, but in a rinse-off cleanser, the contact time is too brief to clog pores. It is safe for acne-prone skin (except fungal acne).
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 130ml tube will typically last 6–8 weeks with twice-daily use (using a small, pea-sized amount each time). Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to preserve the potency of the antioxidant actives, particularly Lipochroman-6 and the V8 Peptide Complex.
Verdict: The O Cosmedics Gentle Antioxidant Cleanser is a standout professional-grade cleanser that delivers far more than just cleansing. With its exclusive V8 Peptide Complex, Lipochroman-6 master antioxidant, and barrier-respecting amino acid surfactants, it transforms a basic skincare step into an active anti-aging and skin-protecting treatment. It excels for sensitive, reactive, post-procedure, and mature skin types. The premium price (A$65 for 130ml) is justified by the cosmedical-grade actives, but budget-conscious buyers should know that excellent gentle cleansers exist at lower price points. The only real drawbacks are its lack of fungal acne safety and limited international availability. For those who can access it, this is one of the best gentle cleansers on the Australian professional skincare market.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate
Emulsifying
|
|






