Gentle Black Facial Cleanser
Gentle Black Facial Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A low pH (5.5–6.5) cream-to-foam cleanser infused with the Black Complex — truffle, blackberry, black cumin, and soybean extracts — that gently removes impurities, fine dust, and excess sebum while leaving skin hydrated, soft, and never tight. Vegan and fragrance-free, ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Black Complex Technology
Proprietary blend of truffle, blackberry, black cumin, and soybean extracts for deep nourishment and antioxidant protection during cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBlack Complex Technology
Proprietary blend of truffle, blackberry, black cumin, and soybean extracts for deep nourishment and antioxidant protection during cleansing.
Amino Acid Surfactants
Uses gentle Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate and Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate instead of harsh sulfates — cleanses effectively without stripping the skin barrier.
Hydrating Cleanse
Infused with Ceramide NP, Hyaluronic Acid, and Beta-Glucan so your skin feels moisturized and soft after washing — never tight or dry.
Skin Barrier Support
Low pH formula (5.5–6.5) respects the skin's natural acid mantle. Clinically tested for sensitive skin irritation and fine dust removal.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from ferments, fatty acids (C11–C24), esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No pore-clogging oils or heavy occlusives. The formula uses lightweight humectants and water-soluble surfactants that rinse cleanly away.
Passed Primary Skin Irritation Test, Sensitive Skin Irritation Test, Particulate Matter Cleansing Effect Test, and Eye Irritation Test.
No synthetic fragrances, perfumes, or essential oils. Ideal for those with fragrance sensitivities or contact dermatitis.
Low cancer concern, low developmental/reproductive toxicity concern. Moderate score for allergies & immunotoxicity (common for surfactant-based products).
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Cocoyl Glycinate ~8–12%Proven
A mild, amino acid-derived surfactant sourced from coconut oil and the amino acid glycine. One of the gentlest foaming agents available, producing a rich yet non-stripping lather.
- Mechanism: Cleanses by forming micelles that trap oil and dirt, then rinse away with water without disrupting the lipid barrier.
- Evidence: Amino acid surfactants show significantly less irritation potential compared to SLS/SLES in dermatological patch tests.
Tuber Melanosporum (Truffle) Extract <1%Promising
Black truffle extract, part of the proprietary Black Complex. Rich in amino acids, minerals, and fatty acids that help nourish and deeply hydrate skin.
- Benefit: Contains natural antioxidants and polysaccharides that help protect skin from environmental stressors.
- Hydration: Helps improve skin's ability to retain moisture by reinforcing the natural moisture barrier.
Ceramide NP <1%Proven
A skin-identical lipid that is a key component of the stratum corneum. Helps repair and maintain the skin barrier even during the cleansing process.
- Evidence: Ceramides are well-documented for restoring barrier function in compromised skin, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Synergy: Works alongside Hydrogenated Lecithin in the formula to deliver ceramides more effectively into the outer skin layers.
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid <1%Proven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates more deeply than standard HA. Provides lasting hydration even in a rinse-off product.
- Size: Hydrolyzed HA has smaller molecules (typically under 50 kDa) allowing better skin penetration during the brief cleansing window.
- Function: Attracts and binds water to the upper skin layers, leaving skin plumper and more hydrated post-cleanse.
Centella Asiatica Extract <1%Proven
A well-studied botanical known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Widely used in K-beauty for calming irritated or acne-prone skin.
- Active compounds: Contains asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid — all shown to promote collagen synthesis and reduce inflammation.
- Clinical use: Extensively studied for wound healing, scar reduction, and soothing red, sensitized skin.
Beta-Glucan <1%Proven
A polysaccharide derived from oats or yeast that provides deep hydration and calms inflammation. Comparable to hyaluronic acid in moisture-binding capacity.
- Studies: Shown to stimulate collagen production and speed wound healing. Also acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals.
- Sensitivity: Particularly beneficial for sensitive and irritated skin due to strong anti-inflammatory properties.
31 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Lauryl Betaine, Hydroxyacetophenone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Chloride, Decylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Nigella Sativa Seed Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Fructooligosaccharides, Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Beta-Glucan, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Tuber Melanosporum Extract, Tocopherol, Ceramide NP, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Aspartic Acid, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in a double-cleanse routine (PM) or as your only cleanser in the morning. Pairs perfectly with the Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil as a first step.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and compromise the skin barrier.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a small amount (pea-to-dime size) onto wet palms. Rub hands together in circular motions to build a dense, creamy foam.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face and massage in gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone and areas with excess oil.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all foam is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow immediately with toner.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to harsh surfactants or fragrances
- You want a low pH cleanser that won't disrupt your acid mantle
- You struggle with fungal acne and need a Malassezia-safe cleanser
- You prefer a creamy, hydrating foam that doesn't leave skin tight
- You follow a double-cleansing routine and need a gentle second step
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe, effective cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a cleanser that removes heavy waterproof makeup on its own
- You prefer a gel or micellar water texture over cream-foam
- You want active exfoliating ingredients (BHA/AHA) in your cleanser
- You have very dry skin and need a non-foaming, oil-based cleanser exclusively
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess sebum and fine dust without over-drying. Low pH helps regulate oil production over time.
Hydrating ingredients like Ceramide NP and HA prevent that tight, stripped feeling. Follow with a rich moisturizer for best results.
Balances oily T-zone and drier cheeks beautifully. Cleanses without disturbing the delicate balance between zones.
Fragrance-free, amino acid surfactants, and soothing Centella Asiatica make this ideal for reactive skin. Clinically tested for sensitive skin.
Non-comedogenic (1/5), fungal acne safe, and sulfate-free. Cleanses pores without aggravating breakouts or inflammation.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated right after the first wash. No tightness, no residue. The dense foam feels noticeably gentle.
95% noticedReduced Dryness & Tightness
Skin barrier begins to recover if you switched from a harsher cleanser. Less post-wash dryness and flakiness. Morning skin feels more balanced.
80% noticedClearer, Calmer Complexion
Fewer breakouts from irritation. Skin appears less red and more even-toned. Pores appear cleaner and less congested with consistent use.
70% noticedHealthier Skin Barrier
Skin's natural barrier is strengthened from consistent low-pH cleansing. Other skincare products absorb more effectively. Overall skin texture improves.
65% noticedRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — does not strip, sting, or leave skin tight
- Fragrance-free and vegan with a clean ingredient list
- Rich, dense foam from a small amount — tube lasts 3–4 months
- Low pH preserves the skin's natural acid mantle
- Contains Ceramide NP and Hyaluronic Acid for post-cleanse hydration
- Fungal acne safe — hard to find in a cleanser this moisturizing
- Passed multiple clinical irritation and cleansing efficacy tests
Criticized
- May feel slightly drying for very dry skin types in cold, dry climates
- Will not remove heavy waterproof makeup alone — needs oil cleanser first
- Tube packaging can be wasteful (hard to squeeze out the last portion)
- Active concentrations (peptides, extracts) are low — limited treatment benefits
- Only available in one size (140ml)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also low pH and gentle, but uses a gel texture with BHA (Betaine Salicylate) and Tea Tree Oil. Slightly more exfoliating, not fragrance-free, and contains Saccharomyces Ferment (not fungal acne safe).
Extremely gentle, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-recommended. Simpler formula without K-beauty botanical extracts or ceramides. Gel texture instead of cream-foam. No antioxidant-rich Black Complex.
Contains 3 essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Non-foaming cream texture, not pH-balanced like Klairs. Larger size (16 oz) for the price. Contains parabens. Not fungal acne safe due to fatty alcohols and polysorbates.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed to prevent the product from drying out.
Opaque squeeze tube (140ml) — protects light-sensitive ingredients like Tocopherol from degradation.
Yes — 140ml is over the 100ml carry-on limit, but the 20ml travel size is available and TSA-approved.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All 31 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, we always recommend consulting with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing new products during pregnancy.
Yes. The formula is free from ferments, polysorbates, fatty acids (C11–C24), and esters that feed Malassezia yeast. It is widely recognized in the skincare community as fungal acne safe and is listed as such on SkinSort and other ingredient-checking databases.
Absolutely. As a gentle, low-pH cleanser without active exfoliants, it pairs safely with all actives including retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs. In fact, its low pH helps prepare the skin for better absorption of pH-dependent actives like vitamin C and AHA/BHA treatments applied afterward.
This cleanser works well across all skin types but truly excels for sensitive, combination, and acne-prone skin. It's formulated with amino acid surfactants gentle enough for reactive skin, while still being effective at removing oil and impurities. Those with very dry skin may want to pair it with a hydrating toner immediately after cleansing.
You'll notice the gentle, non-stripping cleanse from the very first use. Within 1–2 weeks, skin usually feels less tight and irritated post-cleanse. By weeks 3–4, many users report fewer irritation-related breakouts and a calmer, more balanced complexion. Significant barrier repair benefits emerge after 2+ months of consistent use.
Use it as the second step in a double-cleanse routine (after an oil cleanser in the evening) or as your sole cleanser in the morning. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It pairs especially well with the Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner as a next step.
No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, which is very low. It contains no heavy oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients. The amino acid-based surfactants and water-soluble humectants rinse cleanly away, leaving no pore-clogging residue behind.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Since only a small amount is needed per use (pea-to-dime size), many users report the 140ml tube lasting 3–4 months with twice-daily use. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly closed between uses for optimal freshness.
Verdict: The Dear, Klairs Gentle Black Facial Cleanser is one of the best low-pH, fragrance-free cleansers in the K-beauty market. Its amino acid surfactant base, hydrating ceramide and hyaluronic acid complex, and unique Black Complex botanicals make it a standout for sensitive, acne-prone, and fungal acne-prone skin types. While it won't replace an oil cleanser for heavy makeup removal, as a daily face wash or second-step cleanser, it delivers exceptional gentleness, a luxurious foam feel, and a genuinely hydrated post-wash finish. A reliable, everyday workhorse that respects your skin barrier.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|