Glycolipid Cream Cleanser
Glycolipid Cream Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, non-foaming cream cleanser that effectively removes makeup, foundation, and mascara using plant-derived glycolipid biosurfactants while respecting the skin barrier and maintaining optimal hydration. Formulated to be non-stripping and pH-balanced for all skin types.
Plant-Derived Glycolipids
Biosurfactants produced through biotechnology using plant-based sugars for gentle yet effective cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPlant-Derived Glycolipids
Biosurfactants produced through biotechnology using plant-based sugars for gentle yet effective cleansing.
Barrier-Respecting Formula
Non-stripping formula that maintains skin hydration and respects the skin's natural pH balance.
Makeup Removal
Effectively removes foundation, mascara, and eyeliner without harsh rubbing or tugging.
Eye-Safe Formula
Ophthalmologically tested, non-irritating to eyes, and safe for contact lens wearers.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. Gentle phytic acid is considered safe for topical use.
Contains Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, and fatty alcohols that may feed malassezia yeast. Those with fungal acne should avoid.
Clinically tested to not clog pores. Low comedogenic rating of 2/5 based on ingredient analysis.
Free from fragrance, essential oils, and harsh surfactants. Clinically tested as non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
Ophthalmologically tested and suitable for contact lens wearers and individuals with sensitive eyes.
Safe to use before applying retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and other active treatments in your routine.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolipidsKey Ingredient
Plant-derived biosurfactants that are among the most commonly used gentle cleansing agents in the cosmetic industry. Produced through biotechnology using plant-based sugars as feedstock, they cleanse effectively while respecting the skin barrier.
- Function: Gentle surfactant and emollient that lifts impurities without stripping
- Benefit: In-vitro studies show glycolipids are a gentler alternative to conventional surfactants
- Additional: May help reduce sebum and oiliness over time
Polyglyceryl-6 DicaprateEmulsifier
A gentle emulsifier derived from vegetable sources that assists in makeup removal alongside glycolipids. Helps oil and water mix together for effective cleansing.
- Function: Emulsifier and mild cleansing agent
- Safety: CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) rated as safe for cosmetic use
- Benefit: Enhances makeup-dissolving capabilities
Pentylene Glycol HumectantHydrating
A plant-derived humectant naturally found in sugar beets. Provides moisturizing benefits while also serving as a mild preservative booster.
- Function: Humectant that draws moisture to the skin
- Source: Derived from corn or sugarcane
- Benefit: Adds smooth, soft feel to the formula
Phytic AcidAntioxidant
A naturally occurring antioxidant found in grains and seeds. Provides mild exfoliating benefits and helps chelate heavy metals from the skin surface.
- Function: Antioxidant and gentle exfoliant
- Benefit: Helps brighten and even skin tone over time
- Safety: Considered pregnancy-safe at cosmetic concentrations
16 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Behenyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glycolipids, Pentylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-6 Dicaprate, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Diutan Gum, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Phytate, Phytic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanse in the evening after an oil/balm cleanser, or as your only cleanser in the morning. Works best on dry skin for makeup removal.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Skin
Dispense a small amount into dry hands. Apply to dry face for best makeup removal, or wet face for a lighter cleanse.
Massage Gently
Using circular motions, massage the cream cleanser over your entire face, including eye area. Take your time to dissolve makeup and impurities.
Add Water to Emulsify
Wet your hands and continue massaging. The formula will turn slightly milky as it emulsifies with water.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with your regular skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that doesn't strip the skin
- You have sensitive, dry, or easily irritated skin
- You're looking for a fragrance-free option
- You want to remove light to medium makeup without harsh rubbing
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe options
- You prefer cream cleansers over foaming formulas
- You want an affordable, effective daily cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - this formula contains fatty acid esters
- You prefer foaming cleansers with a deep-clean feeling
- You wear heavy waterproof makeup (consider double cleansing)
- You have very oily skin and want a more mattifying cleanse
- You need a cleanser with active acne-fighting ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCleanses effectively without over-stripping. May prefer a foaming cleanser for deeper clean. Works well as morning cleanser.
Perfect choice! Non-stripping formula leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated, not tight or dry.
Balances well across different face zones. Gentle enough for dry areas, effective for oily zones.
Fragrance-free, tested as non-irritating. Even passed rosacea skin tests. Ideal for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic and gentle. Good for use with acne treatments. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSClean, Soft Skin
Skin feels refreshed, clean, and hydrated immediately after use. No tight or stripped feeling that often comes with cleansers.
94% felt smooth and cleanBalanced Hydration
Skin barrier feels more comfortable. Less dryness and irritation compared to harsher cleansers. Makeup removal becomes easier.
88% satisfied with cleansing performanceImproved Skin Condition
Consistent use supports a healthier skin barrier. Skin may appear more balanced and less reactive to other products in routine.
Users report calmer, more comfortable skinRatings by platform
8K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle and non-stripping
- Removes light to medium makeup effectively
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Excellent value for money ($12.50 for 150ml)
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- No stinging or irritation around eyes
Criticized
- Struggles with heavy waterproof makeup
- Non-foaming texture not for everyone
- May feel too slippery for some users
- Not suitable for fungal acne (malassezia)
- May not feel "clean enough" for oily skin
- Requires more effort to remove stubborn eye makeup
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for added barrier repair. Similar gentle, non-foaming texture. Available in larger sizes for better value.
Even simpler formula with fewer ingredients. National Eczema Association approved. No ceramides but extremely gentle for ultra-sensitive skin.
Contains prebiotic thermal water and niacinamide. Slightly more expensive but includes additional skin-soothing benefits. Great for redness-prone skin.
Balm-to-oil texture instead of cream. Better for removing heavy makeup. Contains squalane for extra hydration. Slightly higher price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Plastic squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Recyclable packaging.
Yes - 150ml exceeds TSA liquid limit (100ml). Consider decanting for carry-on travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically advised to avoid during pregnancy. The phytic acid in the formula is a very mild AHA that is considered safe at cosmetic concentrations. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new products during pregnancy.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Behenyl Alcohol, and Stearyl Alcohol. If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser instead.
Yes, absolutely! This is a gentle, rinse-off cleanser that won't interfere with your active treatments. It's actually an ideal cleanser to use alongside potent actives because it won't strip or compromise your skin barrier. Use it to cleanse, then follow with your toner and active serums as directed. The gentle formula prepares skin well for treatments without over-sensitizing it.
This cleanser is suitable for all skin types but is particularly excellent for dry, sensitive, and combination skin. People with very oily skin may prefer a foaming cleanser for a deeper clean. It's especially recommended for those with easily irritated or reactive skin, anyone using strong actives like retinoids, and those who find most cleansers too stripping.
You'll notice immediate benefits - skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated right after the first use without any tightness. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you should notice your skin barrier feels more comfortable and balanced. After 4+ weeks, users typically report their skin feels calmer, less reactive, and better able to tolerate other products in their routine.
This cleanser is used as the first step of your routine. In the morning, it can be your only cleanser. In the evening, use it as your second cleanse after an oil or balm cleanser if you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen. Apply to dry skin for best makeup removal, massage in, add water to emulsify, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
This cleanser is clinically tested as non-comedogenic and has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5. The formula has been tested to not clog pores. However, individual reactions can vary, so if you're particularly prone to breakouts, do a patch test first. Note that this is a rinse-off product, so ingredients don't stay on skin long enough to significantly impact pore clogging.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. This means you should use the product within 12 months after first opening it. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2-4 months with twice-daily use, so you should easily finish it within the PAO period. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: The Ordinary Glycolipid Cream Cleanser is an excellent, budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a gentle, non-stripping cleanser that respects the skin barrier. At just $12.50 for 150ml, it offers exceptional value while delivering clinical-grade results. The plant-derived glycolipid formula effectively removes light to medium makeup, leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated, and is safe for pregnancy. Its only significant limitations are that it's not suitable for fungal acne (malassezia) and may struggle with heavy waterproof makeup. For the latter, consider double cleansing with The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser first. Overall, this is a standout cleanser that proves effective skincare doesn't have to be expensive.
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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Behenyl Alcohol
Emollient, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycolipids
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|







