Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser
Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, gel-based foaming facial cleanser by e.l.f. cosmetics that melts away excess oil, makeup and daily impurities without stripping the skin. Infused with hyaluronic acid, three replenishing ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) and anti-aging peptides for a clean, soft, hydrated finish — at a budget-friendly drugstore price.
Hydrating While Cleansing
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin help lock in moisture so skin doesn't feel stripped or squeaky after rinsing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYHydrating While Cleansing
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin help lock in moisture so skin doesn't feel stripped or squeaky after rinsing.
Barrier-Supporting Ceramides
Three ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) plus cholesterol and phytosphingosine replicate the skin's natural lipid matrix.
Peptide-Infused Formula
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Tetrapeptide-7 (the Matrixyl 3000 duo) support firmness and skin smoothness.
Gentle, Mild Surfactants
Decyl Glucoside and Cocamidopropyl Betaine clean without harsh sulfates — plant-derived and biodegradable.
Unbeatable Price Point
Around $10 for a ceramide + peptide + HA cleanser — on par with formulas costing 3–5× more.
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
Certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA. 100% vegan and never tested on animals, worldwide.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters. Considered safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains palmitoyl peptides, Polysorbate 20 and Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, which may feed Malassezia yeast. Rinse-off nature reduces risk, but not ideal for active fungal acne.
A wash-off gel formula with no heavy oils or butters. Very unlikely to clog pores.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHAs and BHAs — the mild surfactant system won't destabilize actives applied afterward.
Scented with "parfum." People with highly fragrance-sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first or choose a fragrance-free alternative.
No SLS, SLES, parabens, phthalates, triclosan, hydroquinone or nonylphenol ethoxylates. Gentle enough for daily AM + PM use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid — lighter, more stable, and better able to penetrate the upper layers of the skin than pure HA. Binds water to keep skin feeling hydrated even after rinsing.
- Clinical data: A single HA molecule can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Function here: Leaves a light hydrating film so skin doesn't feel tight post-cleanse.
- Tolerance: Non-irritating and universally well-tolerated across skin types.
Ceramide NP + AP + EOP TraceProven
Three of the most studied ceramides found naturally in the skin barrier. They help seal moisture in and keep irritants out — critical for dry, sensitive, eczema-prone and mature skin.
- Research: Ceramides make up roughly 50% of the skin's natural intercellular lipid mortar.
- Synergy: Formula also contains Cholesterol and Phytosphingosine — the classic 3:1:1 barrier-repair lipid ratio.
- Benefit: Helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after cleansing.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Tetrapeptide-7 <0.01%Promising
Together, this peptide duo makes up the well-known Matrixyl 3000 complex — signaling peptides often used in anti-aging serums to support collagen and soothe skin.
- Matrixyl 3000: In-vitro studies show increased collagen I, III and IV synthesis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Tetrapeptide-7 may help reduce interleukin-mediated inflammation.
- In a cleanser: Contact time is short, so treat this as a nice bonus, not a primary anti-aging treatment.
Decyl Glucoside + Cocamidopropyl Betaine ~5–10%Proven
A gentle, plant-derived surfactant duo. Decyl Glucoside is made by reacting glucose with coconut or palm-derived fatty alcohols, while Cocamidopropyl Betaine is an amphoteric co-surfactant that boosts foam and softens cleansing.
- pH-friendly: Both surfactants work near the skin's natural pH, unlike harsher SLS/SLES systems.
- Biodegradable: Considered eco-friendlier than traditional sulfates.
- Baby-grade: Decyl Glucoside is common in baby shampoos for its mildness.
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
One of skincare's most proven humectants. Pulls water into the upper skin layers, supports the barrier, and has mild antimicrobial properties.
- Efficacy: Decades of clinical data supporting its hydrating and barrier-soothing effects.
- Tolerance: Non-comedogenic, non-sensitizing, safe across every skin type.
29 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol, Propanediol, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Tromethamine, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Polysorbate 20.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first (or second) cleanse AM and PM. For heavy makeup or SPF, double cleanse with an oil or balm cleanser first.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash with lukewarm water — avoid hot water, which can disrupt your barrier and leave skin feeling tight.
Dispense a Dime-Sized Amount
Pump or squeeze roughly a dime-sized amount (about 1–2 pumps) into damp palms.
Lather & Massage
Rub between your hands to build a light lather, then massage onto the face in upward circular motions for 30–60 seconds.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and gently pat skin dry — don't rub. Follow with toner, treatments and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, combination or dry skin
- Your skin feels tight or squeaky after your current cleanser
- You want a gentle, daily gel wash that still removes light makeup and SPF
- You're building a barrier-focused routine on a tight budget
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a simple, safe cleanser
- You use retinol, AHAs, BHAs or vitamin C and need a non-stripping partner
Consider alternatives if:
- You actively struggle with fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have a strict fragrance-free requirement
- You wear heavy, long-wear or waterproof makeup (needs a double cleanse)
- You have very oily skin and prefer a deep-clean foaming or BHA wash
- You want an exfoliating cleanser with acids or scrubs
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRinses clean without residue. May not feel deep-cleansing enough on very oily skin — consider double cleansing at night.
HA + ceramides + glycerin leave skin soft and hydrated — no tight, squeaky feeling after rinsing.
A balanced mild formula that cleans the T-zone without stripping drier cheeks.
Sulfate- and paraben-free with gentle surfactants. Patch test first if you react to "parfum" fragrance.
Low comedogenic risk and barrier-supporting. Not ideal for fungal acne (contains palmitoyl peptides + Polysorbate 20).
Peptides, ceramides and HA support an aging barrier — a great step-one product for mature routines.
Results timeline
1–3 MONTHSInstantly Soft, Comfortable Skin
Skin feels clean but not tight. No stripping or squeaky feeling. Light makeup, SPF and daily grime rinse away.
94% noticedLess Tightness & Dryness
Post-cleanse dryness subsides. Skin is more receptive to serums and moisturizers layered on top.
78% noticedStronger Barrier Feel
With daily use, users report less reactivity and better tolerance of actives like retinol, AHAs and vitamin C.
65% noticedCalmer, More Even Skin
A consistent gentle cleansing routine is one of the most underrated ways to reduce redness, flaking and sensitivity.
52% noticedRatings by platform
15K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Outstanding price-to-formula ratio (ceramides + peptides + HA under $12)
- Gentle enough for daily AM + PM use
- Leaves skin soft, clean and never tight
- Sulfate-, paraben- and phthalate-free
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and Fair Trade Certified
- Layers well under toners, serums and actives
- Great for beginners and minimalist routines
Criticized
- Contains "parfum" — not fragrance-free
- Not fungal-acne safe (peptides + Polysorbate 20)
- Small 110 ml / 3.71 fl oz bottle
- Light lather may feel underwhelming to foam lovers
- Won't remove heavy or waterproof makeup on its own
- Peptide concentration is very low (rinse-off product)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Fragrance-free with ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) and HA. Creamier, non-foaming texture. Better for very dry or sensitive skin; no peptides.
Comparable drugstore price, gentle, soothing, barrier-friendly. Different texture (melts into milk), no ceramide complex.
Classic ultra-gentle cleanser, barely foams, fragrance-free. No peptides or ceramides — focuses purely on mild surfactants + glycerin.
Balm-to-milk texture (not gel foam). Very gentle, great for dry skin and makeup removal, but no HA, ceramides or peptides.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on packaging). Unopened shelf life is typically 24–30 months.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Tightly close cap after use.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap — hygienic, easy to travel with, and protects the formula from light exposure.
Yes — 110 ml is just over the standard TSA 100 ml liquid rule, so for carry-on use a decanted travel bottle.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical UV filters or other ingredients flagged as high-risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It's a gentle, rinse-off cleanser with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides and mild glucoside surfactants. As always, check with your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
No. The formula contains Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (both palmitic-acid based), Polysorbate 20 and Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate — ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast. Because this is a wash-off product, the risk is lower than with a leave-on serum or cream, but if you actively struggle with fungal acne, a stricter FA-safe cleanser is a better choice.
Yes — this is actually a great cleanser to pair with strong actives. The mild, sulfate-free surfactant system won't destabilize your pH-sensitive serums, and the added hydration helps offset the dryness that retinol, AHAs and BHAs can cause. Apply your actives after cleansing and toning, on damp skin.
It shines on normal, combination, dry and mature skin — anyone whose current cleanser leaves them feeling tight. It's also suitable for most sensitive skin, though those reactive to fragrance should patch test. Very oily skin may prefer a deeper-cleansing gel or BHA wash, or use this in the morning and a stronger cleanser at night.
Most users feel a difference after the very first use — skin feels softer and less tight than with a stripping foam. Barrier-level improvements (less dryness, less reactivity) typically show within 1–4 weeks of consistent daily use, especially when paired with a good moisturizer.
This is Step 1 of your routine, both morning and night. On nights when you've worn makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse first with an oil or balm cleanser (e.g. the Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Balm), then follow with this gel wash. After rinsing, continue with toner, serums, moisturizer and SPF (AM).
No, it's not comedogenic. We rate it 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The formula is oil-free, wash-off, and doesn't contain heavy butters or known pore-clogging ingredients. It's a safe daily choice for acne-prone skin — just keep in mind it isn't fungal-acne safe.
Once opened, the product is best used within 12 months (see the 12M PAO symbol on the tube). Stored unopened in a cool, dry place, it has a typical shelf life of 24–30 months from manufacture. If the texture, color or scent changes noticeably, stop using it.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser is one of the best value gel cleansers on the market. For around $10, you get a thoughtfully formulated gel wash with hyaluronic acid, three skin-identical ceramides (NP, AP, EOP), cholesterol, phytosphingosine, and a Matrixyl 3000 peptide duo — a combination you'd normally expect in cleansers 3–5× the price. It's gentle, sulfate-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and layers beautifully with actives like retinol and vitamin C. The two caveats: it contains "parfum" fragrance, and the palmitoyl peptides + Polysorbate 20 make it unsuitable for fungal-acne-prone skin. For everyone else — especially dry, combination, mature or barrier-compromised skin types — it's an easy daily staple that punches far above its price tag.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|