Gentle Renewing Cleansing Mousse
Gentle Renewing Cleansing Mousse
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, SLS-free foaming cleansing mousse enriched with Tamarind pulp extract (natural AHAs), Alpine herbs, and Organic Saponaria that gently removes makeup, impurities, and pollution while mildly exfoliating for smoother, more radiant skin. Suitable for all skin types.
Natural AHA Exfoliation
Tamarind pulp extract provides gentle alpha-hydroxy acids that dissolve dead skin cells without harsh scrubbing, revealing brighter and smoother skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYNatural AHA Exfoliation
Tamarind pulp extract provides gentle alpha-hydroxy acids that dissolve dead skin cells without harsh scrubbing, revealing brighter and smoother skin.
Alpine Gentle Complex
Organic Golden Gentian and Lemon Balm from Clarins' own Alpine farm soothe and soften skin during cleansing for ultimate comfort.
Plant-Powered Lather
Organic Saponaria extract creates a naturally rich foam without soap or SLS, making the formula gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin.
Anti-Pollution & Barrier Protection
Moringa seed extract helps eliminate pollution particles while vegetal squalene protects the skin's hydrolipidic film from hard water damage.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Contains only gentle, naturally-derived AHAs (tartaric acid, citric acid) in a rinse-off formula at very low concentrations. Generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains Sorbitan Caprylate (an ester) and Polysorbate-adjacent emulsifiers that may theoretically feed Malassezia yeast. However, as a rinse-off cleanser with brief skin contact, the risk is minimal for most people.
Non-comedogenic formula confirmed by the brand. Free of heavy oils, silicones, and pore-clogging waxes. As a rinse-off product, comedogenic potential is further reduced.
Includes Parfum/Fragrance with herbal-citrus notes of tangerine, neroli, and ylang ylang. Those with fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin should patch test first.
Uses mild, amino acid-based and glucoside surfactants (Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate) instead of harsh SLS/SLES. Suitable for sensitive and compromised skin barriers.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. As a rinse-off cleanser, it will not interfere with leave-on treatments applied afterward.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTamarindus Indica (Tamarind) Extract ~1-2%Proven
A natural source of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) including tartaric acid that gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing brighter, smoother skin beneath.
- Function: Gentle chemical exfoliation via natural AHAs
- Research: Studies show tamarind extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties alongside exfoliating benefits
- Clinical: 98% of women reported clean skin after 14 days of use (Clarins test, 109 women)
Gentiana Lutea (Golden Gentian) Extract <1%Promising
Part of Clarins' proprietary Gentle Complex, harvested from their Alpine farm Le Domaine Clarins. Known for stimulating and soothing properties that help calm skin during cleansing.
- Function: Soothing, stimulating, anti-inflammatory
- Source: Organically farmed at Le Domaine Clarins in the French Alps
- Benefit: Helps maintain skin comfort and reduce redness during cleansing
Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Extract <1%Promising
The second half of the Gentle Complex, organic Lemon Balm extract provides calming and softening benefits. Traditionally used for its soothing and antimicrobial properties.
- Function: Calming, softening, antimicrobial
- Source: Sustainably farmed at Le Domaine Clarins
- Benefit: Soothes and softens skin for a comfortable post-cleanse feel
Glycerin ~5-8%Proven
A powerhouse humectant naturally found in the skin. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin's upper layers, preventing the tight and dry feeling often caused by foaming cleansers.
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — completely non-comedogenic
- Research: Well-established as one of the most effective and safe moisturizing ingredients in skincare
- Benefit: Counteracts any drying effect of the surfactants, leaving skin comfortable
Saponaria Officinalis (Soapwort) Extract <1%Promising
A naturally lathering plant ingredient that enables the mousse to foam luxuriously without soap or SLS. This botanical surfactant has mild antimicrobial properties and is gentle on sensitive skin.
- Function: Natural foaming agent, cleansing, antimicrobial
- Innovation: Allows the formula to be both soap-free and SLS-free while maintaining rich foam
Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract <1%Promising
An anti-pollution active that helps capture and remove environmental pollutants, fine dust, and heavy metals from the skin's surface during cleansing.
- Function: Anti-pollution, purifying
- Research: Studies show moringa extract can bind to heavy metals and pollutants, aiding their removal from skin
33 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Citric Acid, Sorbitan Caprylate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Phenoxyisopropanol, Tartaric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Parfum/Fragrance, Xanthan Gum, Xylitylglucoside, Propanediol, Anhydroxylitol, Tamarindus Indica Extract, Disodium EDTA, Xylitol, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Glycolate, Glucose, Sorbic Acid, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Saponaria Officinalis Leaf Extract, Gentiana Lutea Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Maltodextrin, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening. For heavy makeup, double cleanse with an oil cleanser first, then follow with this mousse. Clarins recommends following with their Toning Lotion for your skin type.
How to use
HOW TO USEWarm Between Palms
Dispense one pump of mousse and warm the product between your palms. The clear liquid transforms into a delicate foam upon contact with water.
Lather with Water
Add a small amount of water and work into a rich, airy lather. Use the natural weight of your hands to distribute evenly over face and neck.
Gently Press & Lift
Gently press onto skin from the center of the face, working outward, to lift off impurities, makeup, and pollution. Avoid harsh rubbing.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Splash with cool water in the morning or warm water in the evening. Pat dry gently with a clean towel. Follow with toner and the rest of your routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle yet effective daily cleanser for all skin types
- Your skin looks dull and needs mild exfoliation to restore radiance
- You prefer SLS-free, soap-free formulas that do not strip the skin
- You are looking for a luxurious cleansing experience with plant-based ingredients
- You have mature skin and want gentle AHA benefits in your cleanser
- You live in an area with hard water and need barrier protection
Consider alternatives if:
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (use an oil cleanser first)
- You are on a tight budget — this is a premium-priced cleanser
- You are highly sensitive to fragrance (contains Parfum)
- You need a targeted acne-fighting cleanser with BHA/salicylic acid
- You prefer fragrance-free formulas exclusively
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Cleanses thoroughly without disrupting the skin's natural balance. Mild AHA exfoliation keeps complexion bright and smooth.
Glycerin and squalene help prevent dryness. Some users with very dry skin report slight tightness — follow immediately with a hydrating toner and moisturizer.
Effectively removes excess oil and unclogs pores with gentle AHA exfoliation. Lightweight mousse texture does not leave any greasy residue.
Balances well across different face zones. Cleanses oily T-zone without stripping drier cheeks. A popular choice among combination skin users.
Mild surfactant system and soothing Alpine herbs are well-tolerated by most. Contains fragrance, so patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic with gentle AHA exfoliation to keep pores clear. For active acne, pair with a dedicated BHA treatment in your routine.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Clean & Fresh Feel
Skin feels clean, soft, and comfortable right after the first use. Noticeable removal of makeup and surface impurities without tightness.
99% reported comfortable skin (Clarins test)Smoother Texture & Radiance
Gentle AHA exfoliation begins to show results. Skin texture feels smoother to the touch, and dull complexion starts to look more radiant and refreshed.
98% reported clean skin after 14 daysVisible Pore Refinement
Continued use helps reduce the appearance of clogged pores and rough patches. Skin tone appears more even and the complexion looks healthier overall.
94% reported refreshed skinLong-Term Clarity & Glow
Consistent daily use delivers a lasting improvement in skin clarity, smoothness, and radiance. Many users report this becomes their go-to daily cleanser for the long term.
92% reported purified skinRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — does not strip or dry out skin
- Luxurious mousse texture that lathers beautifully
- Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed
- Effective makeup removal without harsh rubbing
- Pleasant herbal-citrus scent users find relaxing
- SLS-free and soap-free — suitable for sensitive skin
- Convenient pump dispenser with easy foam application
- Visible improvement in skin radiance over time
Criticized
- Premium price (~$40 for 150ml) compared to drugstore options
- 150ml bottle runs out relatively quickly with twice-daily use
- Contains fragrance — not ideal for fragrance-sensitive individuals
- Not strong enough for waterproof or very heavy makeup alone
- Some users with very dry skin report mild tightness
- AHA exfoliation is very mild — may not satisfy those wanting strong exfoliation
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESMuch larger size (473ml) at a fraction of the price. Uses ceramides and niacinamide instead of AHAs. No exfoliating benefit but excellent barrier support. Contains fragrance-free formula.
Similar gentle foaming approach with ceramides and niacinamide. Fragrance-free option available. Lacks AHA exfoliation and Alpine botanical complex but excellent for sensitive skin.
Very affordable natural option with aloe vera and chamomile. Simpler formula without the AHA exfoliation or Alpine botanicals. Good basic gentle cleanser at a fraction of the cost.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep upright to maintain pump function. No refrigeration needed.
Pump bottle dispenser — hygienic, easy to use, and recyclable. Dispenses product as a clear liquid that foams upon contact with water.
Yes — 150ml is over the 100ml carry-on limit, but Clarins offers a travel-size version. The pump bottle is leak-resistant and easy to pack.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The AHAs present (tartaric acid, citric acid from tamarind) are in very low concentrations in a rinse-off formula, posing minimal risk. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The formula contains Sorbitan Caprylate (an ester) and Maltodextrin which could theoretically feed Malassezia yeast. However, since this is a rinse-off product with very brief skin contact time, the practical risk is low for most people. If you have active fungal acne, consider a cleanser with a verified malassezia-safe ingredient list.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, it does not leave active ingredients on the skin that could interact negatively with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. It is safe to use before applying any of these treatments. The mild AHAs in the formula are washed away and will not cause over-exfoliation when paired with leave-on actives.
This cleanser is formulated for all skin types and performs especially well on normal, oily, and combination skin. It is also suitable for sensitive and mature skin thanks to its gentle surfactant system and soothing Alpine herbs. Those with very dry skin may want to follow with a rich moisturizer. Clarins also makes skin-type-specific cleansers if you prefer a more targeted option.
You will feel immediately cleaner and softer skin from the first use. Visible improvements in skin radiance and texture typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent daily use. Pore refinement and long-term glow develop over 3-4 weeks. In Clarins' clinical test, 98% of women reported noticeably clean skin after 14 days of use.
Use it as your cleanser — the first or second step in your routine. In the morning, apply directly to damp skin. In the evening, if wearing heavy makeup, use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water first, then follow with this mousse as your second cleanse. After rinsing, continue with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
No. This cleanser is non-comedogenic (rated 1/5) and is confirmed by the brand as dermatologist tested. It is free of heavy oils, silicones, and pore-clogging waxes. As a rinse-off product, even ingredients with minimal comedogenic potential are washed away before they can settle into pores. It actually helps unclog pores through gentle AHA exfoliation.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 150ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (one pump per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize shelf life. The pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene by preventing contamination.
Verdict: The Clarins Gentle Renewing Cleansing Mousse is a premium, well-formulated daily cleanser that delivers on its promise of gentle yet effective cleansing with a touch of natural AHA exfoliation. Its SLS-free, soap-free formula with soothing Alpine botanicals makes it a standout for those who want luxury in their cleansing step. The main drawback is the price — at ~$40 for 150ml, it is significantly more expensive than drugstore alternatives that also cleanse gently. However, the unique tamarind AHA exfoliation, anti-pollution moringa extract, and beautiful mousse texture justify the premium for those who can afford it. Highly recommended for all skin types seeking a gentle, radiance-boosting daily cleanser.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Sorbitan Caprylate
Emulsifying
|
|





