Gentle Cleanser
Gentle Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A mild, soap-free gel cleanser that purifies, calms, and hydrates all skin types — especially sensitive and hyper-reactive skin. Infused with antioxidant-rich Green Tea, Goji Berry, soothing Aloe Vera, and moisture-binding Cucumber Oil, it removes makeup and impurities without stripping or irritating.
Antioxidant Protection
Green Tea and Goji Berry extracts neutralise free radicals and fortify the skin barrier against environmental stressors.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntioxidant Protection
Green Tea and Goji Berry extracts neutralise free radicals and fortify the skin barrier against environmental stressors.
Hydrating Cleanse
Glycerin and Cucumber Oil replenish moisture during cleansing so skin never feels stripped, tight, or dry after rinsing.
Calming Botanicals
Aloe Vera and Olive Leaf Extract soothe redness and sensitivity, making this ideal for post-procedure or irritated skin.
Gentle Brightening
A low dose of Lactic Acid (pH-adjusting level) and Vitamin E promote a smoother, more radiant complexion over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The trace amount of lactic acid is at pH-adjusting levels only and is considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Oil, which includes oleic and linoleic fatty acids that can feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for active fungal acne.
No comedogenic ingredients detected. Cucumber Oil is present in a small amount in a rinse-off formula, posing minimal pore-clogging risk.
Gentle enough to use before and after professional skin treatments including microdermabrasion, peels, and laser procedures.
Contains ALS (not SLS) as a mild surfactant. While gentler than SLS, it may still cause irritation in some highly reactive individuals. Patch test recommended.
Free from common allergens, parabens, silicones, harsh alcohols, and artificial fragrances. Suitable for eczema-prone skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5-10%Proven
One of the most effective humectants in skincare. Naturally present in skin, glycerin draws moisture into the upper layers and strengthens the skin barrier. Studies show it outperforms hyaluronic acid as a humectant.
- Function: Humectant and skin barrier support
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid for skin hydration
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract <1%Proven
A powerful antioxidant extract rich in polyphenols (especially EGCG) that neutralises free radicals and protects against environmental damage. Also has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm redness.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing
- Research: EGCG in green tea has demonstrated photoprotective and anti-ageing benefits in multiple clinical studies
Lycium Barbarum (Goji Berry) Extract <1%Promising
An antioxidant-rich superfruit extract packed with vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids. Works synergistically with Green Tea to fortify skin against oxidative stress and environmental aggressors.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin-fortifying
- Research: Goji Berry polysaccharides show protective effects against UV-induced skin damage in preliminary studies
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Oil <1%Proven
Rich in fatty acids and phytosterols, cucumber oil replenishes moisture, soothes irritation, and softens skin. Provides a calming, cooling sensation during cleansing.
- Function: Emollient, soothing, moisture-binding
- Research: Contains linoleic acid and vitamin E, both beneficial for skin barrier repair
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) ~0.5-1%Proven
A provitamin that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. Deeply hydrates, promotes wound healing, reduces redness, and strengthens the skin barrier by stimulating fibroblast proliferation.
- Function: Hydration, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Clinical studies confirm panthenol promotes fibroblast proliferation and accelerates wound healing
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice <1%Proven
A time-tested soothing agent containing acemannan polysaccharides, vitamins, and amino acids. Calms irritation, provides lightweight hydration, and supports skin healing.
- Function: Soothing, hydrating, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Well-established wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties across numerous clinical trials
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A potent fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin cell membranes from free radical damage. Also helps stabilise other ingredients in the formula and supports the lipid skin barrier.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin barrier support, formula stabiliser
- Research: Well-documented photoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties in dermatological literature
Lactic Acid 1.3-2%Proven
A gentle AHA used here primarily as a pH adjuster. At this low concentration in a rinse-off product, it provides mild surface-level smoothing without significant exfoliation or irritation.
- Function: pH adjustment, mild exfoliation
- Research: At low concentrations, lactic acid adjusts product pH while providing gentle hydrating and smoothing benefits
20 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Lactic Acid, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Phenoxyethanol, Olea Europaea Leaf Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Camellia Sinensis Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Cucumis Sativus Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step of a double cleanse morning and night. Follow with a second, more active cleanser if desired (e.g., Skinstitut Glycolic Cleanser 12% for oily skin). Can also be used as a standalone single cleanser for sensitive skin.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Splash lukewarm water across your face and neck. Avoid hot water, which can strip the skin's natural oils.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze a small pea-sized amount onto wet hands and work into a light lather. A little goes a long way with this product.
Massage in Circular Motions
Gently massage all over the face including the eye area for 30 seconds. The formula is gentle enough for the delicate eye zone.
Rinse and Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and lightly pat dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with your serum or moisturiser.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You want a gentle first-step cleanser for double cleansing
- You need a cleanser safe for pre/post professional treatments
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You want a soap-free, fragrance-free formula
- You prefer vegan and cruelty-free skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (contains cucumber oil with fatty acids)
- You need a heavy-duty cleanser for thick, waterproof makeup
- You want a cleanser with active exfoliating acids at treatment strength
- You prefer a completely oil-free formula
- You need a budget-friendly option under $15
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for hyper-sensitive skin. Soap-free, fragrance-free, and gentle enough for post-procedure use. The gold standard for reactive skin types.
Glycerin and cucumber oil replenish moisture during cleansing. Will not strip natural oils. Follow with a rich moisturiser for best results.
Perfect daily cleanser that maintains skin balance without over-cleansing. Great for both morning and evening routines.
Works well as a first cleanse. Oilier zones may benefit from following up with a more active second cleanser like a glycolic or salicylic acid wash.
May not be deep-cleansing enough as a sole cleanser for very oily skin. Best used as a first step in a double-cleansing routine, followed by a foaming or gel cleanser.
Non-comedogenic (1/5) and won't clog pores. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to cucumber oil content. For bacterial acne, it's a safe, non-irritating base cleanser.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft, and calm immediately after the first use. No tightness, stinging, or dryness. Light lather rinses cleanly without residue.
95% noticedReduced Irritation & Redness
Sensitive and reactive skin begins to calm down. Redness and irritation from previous harsh cleansers start to subside. Skin barrier begins to stabilise.
80% noticedImproved Skin Clarity
Antioxidants from Green Tea and Goji Berry begin to show cumulative benefits. Skin appears brighter, more even-toned, and healthier overall.
70% noticedBalanced, Resilient Skin
Long-term use strengthens the skin barrier. Skin is more resilient, less reactive to environmental stressors, and maintains a healthy moisture balance consistently.
65% noticedRatings by platform
101+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — safe for hyper-sensitive and post-procedure skin
- Removes makeup (including eye makeup) without stinging or burning
- A pea-sized amount goes a long way; one tube lasts 3-6 months
- Soap-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free
- Skin feels clean and soft without tightness or dryness
- Australian-made cosmeceutical quality at an accessible price point
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Convenient tube packaging — no mess, travel-friendly
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe due to cucumber oil content
- Some users with rosacea reported irritation (likely from ALS surfactant)
- May not be deep-cleansing enough for very oily skin as a sole cleanser
- Higher price point compared to drugstore alternatives like CeraVe or Cetaphil
- Some reviewers noted the reformulated version differs from the original
- Limited global availability — primarily stocked in Australian retailers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for superior barrier repair. Creamier, non-foaming texture. Larger size (473ml) at a fraction of the price. Lacks the antioxidant botanical extracts found in Skinstitut.
A classic dermatologist-recommended gentle cleanser. Simpler formula without antioxidant botanicals. Milkier texture that can leave a slight film. Extremely well-tolerated by sensitive skin. Available worldwide.
Ultra-minimal formula free from virtually all potential irritants. Fungal acne safe (unlike Skinstitut). No botanical extracts or antioxidants. The safest option for extremely reactive, allergy-prone skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Bathroom storage is fine, but avoid excessive heat and humidity.
Squeezable tube with flip-top cap — hygienic dispensing, minimal product waste, easy to control portion size.
Yes — 200ml tube is under carry-on limits in most countries. Compact, leak-proof design fits easily in travel bags and shower caddies.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Skinstitut Gentle Cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The lactic acid present (1.3-2%) is at a pH-adjusting concentration in a rinse-off product and is not considered a risk. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This cleanser contains Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Oil, which includes oleic and linoleic fatty acids that can feed malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider fungal acne-safe alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser instead.
Yes. This is a gentle, rinse-off cleanser that won't interfere with active ingredients applied afterward. It's an excellent base cleanser to pair with retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA/BHA treatments because it won't add extra irritation or compromise your skin barrier before applying actives. Introduce active products gradually.
It's formulated for all skin types but is especially ideal for sensitive, dry, normal, and compromised skin. It excels as a post-procedure cleanser and for anyone whose skin is easily irritated. For oily or combination skin, it works best as a first cleanse in a double-cleansing routine, followed by a more active cleanser.
You'll notice immediate comfort — skin feels clean, soft, and calm from the first use. Reduced irritation and redness typically become noticeable within 1-2 weeks. Cumulative antioxidant and barrier-strengthening benefits develop over 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Remember, a cleanser's primary role is gentle cleansing — the biggest improvements come from serums and treatments applied afterward.
It goes first — as the very first step of your skincare routine, both morning and evening. Use it as the initial cleanse to remove makeup, sunscreen, and surface impurities. You can then follow with a second, more active cleanser if desired (double cleansing), or proceed directly to toner, serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen (AM).
No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low risk). Independent analysis detected no comedogenic ingredients. Cucumber oil is present in a trace amount in a rinse-off formula, so it has minimal opportunity to clog pores. It's suitable for acne-prone skin (though not for fungal acne specifically).
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, because only a pea-sized amount is needed per use, many users report a single 200ml tube lasting 3-6 months with twice-daily use. Store in a cool, dry place and ensure the cap is securely closed after each use for optimal shelf life.
Verdict: Skinstitut Gentle Cleanser is a well-formulated, Australian-made cosmeceutical cleanser that delivers on its core promise: gentle, effective cleansing without irritation. It shines for sensitive, dry, and post-procedure skin thanks to its antioxidant-rich botanical blend of Green Tea, Goji Berry, and Aloe Vera. The soap-free, vegan formula is pregnancy safe and non-comedogenic. However, it's not fungal acne safe, carries a premium price versus drugstore competitors, and may not be deep-cleansing enough for very oily skin on its own. If you have sensitive or reactive skin and want a reliable, soothing daily cleanser backed by cosmeceutical-grade formulation, this is an excellent choice.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 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 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Xanthan Gum
Binding Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning, Surfactant -Emulsifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding, Gel Forming, Viscosity Controlling
|
|