Skip to content

Gleanser Non-Drying Glycerin Cleanser For Face And Body

Gleanser Non-Drying Glycerin Cleanser For Face And Body

Product Description

A dermatologist-developed, non-stripping glycerin cleanser with 50% glycerin concentration that effectively removes makeup, oil, and impurities while delivering clinically proven 24-hour hydration. Formulated with inulin, arginine, oat extract, and aloe to soothe, comfort, and maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier and pH. Suitable for face and body.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Derm-Developed Β· Made in United States
βœ” Dermatologist Developed βœ” 50% Glycerin βœ” Fragrance-Free βœ” Sulfate-Free βœ” Vegan & Cruelty-Free βœ” Eczema Seal of Acceptance βœ” Rosacea Seal of Acceptance βœ” Clinically Tested βœ” Hypoallergenic βœ” Allergy-Tested
Pregnancy Safe
Yes βœ”
Fungal Acne Safe
Caution ⚠️
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
πŸ’§
Type
Gel Cleanser
πŸ“
Size
13.5 fl oz / 400ml
πŸ’°
Price
$18.00
βš—οΈ
pH
pH-Balanced
🧴
Key Active
50% Glycerin

✨ Texture & Feel

πŸ’§
Consistency
Thick gel
πŸ‘ƒ
Scent
Fragrance-free
⏱️
Absorption
Rinse-off
🎯
Finish
Hydrated, supple
πŸ’§

50% Glycerin Concentration

The highest glycerin concentration in a cleanser, acting as both the primary ingredient and a powerful humectant that prevents surfactants from penetrating the skin barrier.

πŸ›‘οΈ

Barrier-Protective Formula

Glycerin blocks surfactant micelles from reaching deeper skin layers through aqueous pores, reducing irritation and dryness during cleansing.

🌿

Soothing Botanicals

Oat extract (Avena Sativa), aloe vera, and arginine calm and comfort the skin while cleansing. Ideal for rosacea and eczema-prone skin.

⏰

24-Hour Hydration

Clinically proven to deliver immediate moisturization that lasts up to 24 hours after a single use, thanks to aquaporin-stimulating actives and inulin prebiotics.

🧬

Prebiotic Inulin

A chicory-derived polysaccharide with prebiotic and antioxidant properties that supports the skin's natural microbiome and hydration balance.

πŸ§ͺ

Clinically Proven for Rosacea

After 1 week of twice-daily use, clinical studies showed a 26% reduction in redness, 27% reduction in flushing severity, and 38% reduction in facial acne.

πŸ›‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility

βœ…
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

⚠️
Fungal Acne (Malassezia) β€” Caution

Contains lecithin, which may be derived from soybean oil. Soy-based lecithin can potentially feed malassezia yeast. Contact the brand to confirm the lecithin source if you are fungal acne prone.

βœ…
Eczema Safe β€” NEA Approved

Received the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Formulated without common irritants and suitable for eczema-prone skin.

βœ…
Rosacea Safe β€” NRS Approved

Received the National Rosacea Society Seal of Acceptance. Clinically proven to reduce redness and flushing severity after just one week of use.

βœ…
Non-Comedogenic

Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Glycerin has a comedogenicity rating of 0 and the formula contains no known pore-clogging oils or esters.

βœ…
Sensitive Skin Friendly

Hypoallergenic, allergy-tested, fragrance-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free. Uses only gentle amphoteric surfactants.

πŸ”¬ Ingredient Breakdown

πŸ’§ Glycerin 50% Proven

The star ingredient and first on the INCI list. A well-studied humectant naturally found in the skin that improves hydration, enhances elasticity, and repairs the epidermal barrier. At 50% concentration, it also prevents surfactant micelles from penetrating the skin barrier.

  • Function: Humectant, skin-identical ingredient, barrier protector
  • Research: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
  • Comedogenicity: 0 β€” will not clog pores
βœ…
At this high concentration, glycerin acts as a shield preventing surfactants from stripping skin lipids, resulting in a non-drying cleanse.

🌾 Inulin Supporting Promising

A chicory-derived polysaccharide with prebiotic and antioxidant properties. Supports the skin's natural microbiome balance and enhances moisture retention.

  • Function: Prebiotic, antioxidant, moisture-enhancing
  • Research: Studies show inulin helps control the skin's natural microbiota when applied topically
  • Source: Typically extracted from chicory root

🧬 Dihydroxypropyl Arginine HCl Supporting Proven

A unique cationic molecule combining glycerin and the NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor) amino acid arginine. Adheres to skin due to its positive charge, delivering long-lasting hydration and reducing dryness caused by surfactants.

  • Function: Long-lasting hydration, surfactant-dryness reducer
  • Technology: Aquaporin-stimulating active that boosts skin suppleness
  • Note: Part of the NMF β€” naturally found in healthy skin

🌿 Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Supporting Proven

A natural humectant derived from aloe vera leaves that soothes, calms, and comforts the skin. Known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.

  • Function: Soothing, calming, moisturizing
  • Benefits: Helps balance skin moisture levels and enhances elasticity

🌾 Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour Supporting Proven

Finely milled oat flour with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Widely used in products for sensitive, eczema-prone, and irritated skin.

  • Function: Anti-inflammatory, skin soother, barrier support
  • Heritage: Oat-based ingredients have FDA recognition for skin-protective benefits

πŸ”¬ Glyceryl Glucoside Supporting Promising

A moisture-binding compound that stimulates aquaporins β€” the skin's natural water channels β€” to boost hydration from within. Enhances skin suppleness and long-term moisture retention.

  • Function: Aquaporin stimulator, deep hydration
  • Research: Shown to activate aquaporin-3 channels in the epidermis for improved water transport

20 ingredients

Glycerin, Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Chloride, Inulin, Dihydroxypropyl Arginine HCl, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Avena Sativa Kernel Flour, Glyceryl Glucoside, Polyquaternium-10, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide

FREE FROM: Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Fragrances, Parabens, Silicones, Harsh Alcohols, Common Allergens, Oils, Dyes, Soap, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Retinoids, Essential Oils

πŸ”„ Where It Fits in Your Routine

1
Oil Cleanser
2
Gleanser
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Use as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (AM & PM), or as a standalone cleanser in the morning. Pair with Prequel Pre-Gleanse Oil Cleanser for the most thorough and gentle cleanse.

πŸ“ How to Use

1

Wet Your Skin

Splash lukewarm water on your face and body. The cleanser works best when applied to wet skin.

2

Apply a Generous Amount

Dispense 1–2 pumps onto your palms. A little goes a long way due to the thick gel consistency. The formula creates a fine, creamy lather.

3

Massage Gently

Work the cleanser across your face and body using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. The glycerin-rich formula will feel slippery and hydrating.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse with lukewarm water. Due to the high glycerin content, you may need extra rinsing or a damp cloth. Best results in the shower with steam.

5

Follow with Your Routine

Apply toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Use morning and night for best results. Suitable for both face and body.

πŸ‘€ Who Is It For?

βœ… Perfect for you if:

  • You have dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin that gets stripped by most cleansers
  • You suffer from rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis and need a clinically gentle formula
  • You want a face AND body cleanser in one product
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a pregnancy-safe cleanser
  • You want a fragrance-free, sulfate-free, minimalist ingredient list
  • You use strong actives (retinol, AHAs/BHAs) and need a non-stripping cleanser
  • You prefer a dermatologist-developed product with clinical backing

❌ Consider alternatives if:

  • You prefer a squeaky-clean, fully matte finish after cleansing
  • You have very oily skin and want strong oil control from your cleanser
  • You dislike the slippery, glycerin-rich texture that can feel hard to rinse off
  • You are strictly fungal acne prone (lecithin source is uncertain)
  • You want exfoliating ingredients built into your cleanser (consider Gleanser + SA instead)

🎯 Skin Type Compatibility

Dry Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

The hero product for dry skin. 50% glycerin delivers deep, lasting hydration without stripping. Skin feels supple and comfortable after every wash.

Sensitive Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Hypoallergenic, allergy-tested, fragrance-free. Holds both NEA and NRS seals. Amphoteric surfactants are among the gentlest available.

Combination Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Hydrates dry areas effectively without heavy residue. Oily zones may need a light foaming follow-up or double cleanse for full satisfaction.

Oily Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†β˜† Moderate

Cleanses effectively but the rich glycerin texture may feel too heavy or slippery for very oily skin types. Consider Gleanser + SA for better oil control.

Acne-Prone Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Non-comedogenic (0/5) with no pore-clogging oils. Clinical studies showed 38% reduction in facial acne. However, the lecithin may concern fungal acne sufferers.

πŸ“ˆ Results Timeline

Immediately

Instant Hydration & Comfort

Skin feels hydrated, soft, and supple right after the first wash. No tight, stripped feeling. Clinically proven immediate moisturization.

95% noticed immediate comfort
1 Week

Visible Redness Reduction

Clinical studies showed a 26% reduction in redness and 27% reduction in flushing severity after twice-daily use for one week. Skin barrier begins to recover.

80% noticed calmer skin
2–4 Weeks

Improved Barrier Function

Skin barrier strengthens with consistent use. Less reactive to other products. Overall skin texture appears smoother and more resilient. Complexion looks healthier.

75% noticed improved texture
1–3 Months

Long-Term Skin Health

Full benefits of barrier repair realized. Skin retains moisture better, tolerates active ingredients more easily, and shows reduced sensitivity overall.

85% would repurchase

⭐ Ratings by Platform

🎯 Target
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.4
Rating
1,470+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Slimy/slippery texture that can be hard to rinse off at the sink
πŸ›’ Amazon
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.5
Rating
800+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Glycerin texture takes getting used to, especially for oily skin types
🏠 Brand Website
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.7
Rating
500+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Frequently sells out β€” can be hard to keep in stock
πŸ“ Thingtesting
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.6
Rating
50+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Some find the texture too slippery; works best in the shower rather than at the sink

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons

βœ… Praised

  • Truly non-stripping β€” skin feels hydrated, never tight after cleansing
  • Incredible value: $18 for 13.5 oz lasts 6+ months with daily use
  • Works for face AND body β€” great for the whole family
  • Dermatologist-developed with clinical data to back claims
  • NEA and NRS Seals of Acceptance for eczema and rosacea
  • Clean, short ingredient list with no common irritants
  • Creates a fine, creamy lather despite being sulfate-free
  • 24-hour clinically proven hydration from a wash-off product

❌ Criticized

  • Slippery, glycerin-heavy texture can be difficult to rinse off fully at the sink
  • May feel too heavy or slimy for very oily skin types
  • Frequently sells out β€” inventory issues frustrate loyal customers
  • Pump bottle cap can break if dropped (several reports)
  • Lecithin source (soy vs. other) is unclear for fungal acne concerns
  • Some users find it does not feel like a deep clean compared to foaming cleansers

πŸ’° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)

80% Match
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
$8.86 Budget Pick

Similarly gentle, fragrance-free formula beloved by dermatologists and NEA-approved. Less hydrating than Gleanser (no glycerin-first formula) but an excellent gentle cleanser at half the price. 8 fl oz.

70% Match
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
$14.64 Budget Pick

Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier repair. Creamy, non-foaming texture. Larger 16 oz size. Lacks the 50% glycerin concentration and clinical rosacea data. Some users report a residue film.

65% Match
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
$16.99 Similar Price

Formulated with prebiotic thermal water, ceramides, and niacinamide for sensitive skin. Lighter texture than Gleanser. Does not have the high glycerin concentration or the rosacea clinical studies. 13.5 fl oz.

πŸ”„ Comparison with Competitors

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

$14.64
Key Ingredient Ceramides + Hyaluronic Acid
Size 16 fl oz / 473ml
Price per oz $0.92/oz
Fragrance-Free Yes
Eczema Seal NEA Approved
Rosacea Seal No
Body Use Face only
Texture Creamy lotion, non-foaming

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating

$16.99
Key Ingredient Thermal Water + Niacinamide
Size 13.5 fl oz / 400ml
Price per oz $1.26/oz
Fragrance-Free Yes
Eczema Seal No
Rosacea Seal No
Body Use Face only
Texture Creamy gel, light rinse

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

$8.86
Key Ingredient Gentle surfactants only
Size 8 fl oz / 237ml
Price per oz $1.11/oz
Fragrance-Free Yes
Eczema Seal NEA Approved
Rosacea Seal No
Body Use Face only
Texture Gel, light foam

πŸ“¦ Storage & Shelf Life

πŸ“…
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

🏠
Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the pump cap closed between uses.

πŸ“¦
Packaging

Pump bottle (13.5 fl oz). Durable plastic with dispensing pump for easy one-handed use.

✈️
Travel Friendly

Full size (13.5 oz) exceeds TSA limit. Travel size (3.4 fl oz / 100ml) available separately and is TSA-approved.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Prequel Gleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its 20-ingredient formula is composed of gentle surfactants, humectants, and soothing botanicals that are all considered safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.

Caution is advised. Most ingredients in the Gleanser are fungal acne safe, but the formula contains lecithin, which may be derived from soybean oil. Soy-based lecithin can potentially feed malassezia yeast. We recommend contacting Prequel directly to confirm the source of their lecithin before using this product if you are prone to fungal acne.

Absolutely. In fact, Gleanser is an ideal companion for strong actives because it will not strip or further irritate your skin. The 50% glycerin formula protects the skin barrier while cleansing, making it perfect to use before applying retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA/BHA exfoliants. If you want a cleanser with built-in exfoliation, Prequel also offers Gleanser + SA with 1% salicylic acid.

Gleanser is designed for all skin types but truly excels for dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, and rosacea-prone skin. It works well for combination skin and acne-prone skin (comedogenic rating 0/5). Very oily skin types may find the rich glycerin texture too heavy β€” in that case, consider the Gleanser + SA variant for better oil control.

You will feel the difference immediately β€” skin feels hydrated and comfortable after the very first wash with clinically proven instant moisturization lasting up to 24 hours. Within one week of twice-daily use, clinical studies showed visible reductions in redness (26%) and flushing (27%). Full barrier-repair benefits typically develop over 2–4 weeks of consistent use.

Gleanser is your second step in a double-cleanse routine (after an oil cleanser like Prequel Pre-Gleanse) or your first step if you are not double-cleansing. Use it before toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It is suitable for both morning and evening use on both face and body.

No. Prequel Gleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. Glycerin itself has a comedogenicity rating of 0, and the formula contains no oils, silicones, or known pore-clogging esters. Clinical studies even showed a 38% reduction in facial acne after one week of use, indicating it actively supports clearer skin.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The generous 13.5 fl oz (400ml) bottle typically lasts 6+ months with twice-daily face use, making it an excellent value at $18. Many reviewers report their bottle lasting over 6 months because only 1–2 pumps are needed per use.

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.5 out of 5

Verdict: Prequel Gleanser is a standout cleanser that delivers on its promise of non-drying, barrier-protective cleansing. The 50% glycerin formula is genuinely innovative β€” it is one of the only cleansers that leaves skin feeling more hydrated after washing than before. Backed by clinical data for rosacea, approved by both the National Eczema and National Rosacea associations, and developed by a board-certified dermatologist, this is a serious product at a very accessible price point. The only drawbacks are the slippery texture (best used in the shower) and the uncertain fungal acne safety due to lecithin. For dry, sensitive, or reactive skin types, this is among the best gentle cleansers on the market.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

Awesome, I Understand!

Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.

muscle 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

Awesome, I Understand!

Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Citric Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
55% 15% 30%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 20 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
4 B
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
1 A
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
1 Unknown
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS