Houttuynia Cordata + Tea Tree Cleansing Foam
Houttuynia Cordata + Tea Tree Cleansing Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, creamy cleansing foam powered by 40.7% Houttuynia Cordata and 6.85% Tea Tree Extract to deeply purify pores, calm troubled skin, and soothe irritation — all without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier. Dermatologist-tested and formulated with all EWG Green Grade ingredients.
40.7% Houttuynia Cordata Extract
Korean heartleaf extract rich in quercitrin that calms inflammation, fights acne-causing bacteria, and soothes redness on troubled skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY40.7% Houttuynia Cordata Extract
Korean heartleaf extract rich in quercitrin that calms inflammation, fights acne-causing bacteria, and soothes redness on troubled skin.
6.85% Tea Tree Extract
Australian tea tree oil delivers antibacterial and antifungal action, deeply cleansing clogged pores and helping to reduce breakouts.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid holds up to 1,000x its weight in water, keeping skin hydrated even after cleansing.
Dense Creamy Foam
Rich, whipped-cream-textured lather thoroughly removes dirt, sebum, and impurities from pore blind spots without irritation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains beeswax and glyceryl stearate SE which may feed Malassezia yeast. However, as a rinse-off product with brief skin contact, the risk is lower than leave-on products.
Rated 1 out of 5 for pore-clogging potential. Fatty acids are saponified by potassium hydroxide into soap and rinsed away, minimizing comedogenic concerns.
Passed skin irritation testing. Formulated with all EWG Green Grade ingredients and deemed hypoallergenic. Suitable for sensitive skin.
Fragrance (parfum) is listed as the last ingredient. Those with fragrance sensitivities or very reactive skin should patch test before full use.
As a saponified fatty acid cleanser, the pH is higher (~8–9) than the skin's natural pH of 5.5. Follow with a low-pH toner to rebalance if needed.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHouttuynia Cordata Extract 40.7%Proven
Also known as heartleaf or fish mint, this Korean medicinal herb is packed with polyphenolic flavonoids (quercetin, quercitrin, hyperoside, rutin) that deliver powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant benefits to the skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Suppresses TNF-α and COX-2 inflammatory markers, shown effective for calming atopic dermatitis and acne (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2006)
- Antibacterial: Inhibits Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, the primary bacteria responsible for acne breakouts
- UV Protection: Quercitrin protects against UVB-induced oxidative stress and cell damage in keratinocytes (Toxicology & Applied Pharmacology, 2013)
- Antioxidant: Scavenges free radicals and reduces ROS, helping prevent premature skin aging
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract 6.85%Proven
Australian tea tree extract is one of the most well-studied natural antibacterials in skincare. It provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial action against bacteria, fungi, and viruses that cause skin troubles.
- Acne efficacy: Clinical studies show tea tree oil at 5% is as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne, with fewer side effects (Medical Journal of Australia, 1990)
- Sebum control: Helps regulate excess oil production by cleansing deep within pores
- Antifungal: Effective against Candida and other fungal organisms on the skin
Sodium Hyaluronate traceProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular size that penetrates the skin more easily. Provides humectant hydration to prevent post-cleansing tightness and dryness.
- Hydration: Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, attracting and binding moisture to the skin
- Barrier support: Helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier even during cleansing
Glycerin supportingProven
A time-tested humectant that draws water into the skin. Works synergistically with sodium hyaluronate to keep skin from feeling tight or stripped after cleansing.
- Moisturizing: One of the most effective and well-studied humectants available in skincare
- Barrier repair: Supports the skin's natural lipid barrier and improves overall skin texture
20 ingredients
Houttuynia Cordata Extract (40.7%), Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Glycerin, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract (6.85%), Stearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, Water, Beeswax, Dipropylene Glycol, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Glyceryl Stearate SE, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Fragrance
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser (water-based step) in a double-cleanse routine, or as your sole cleanser in the morning. Follow with a low-pH toner for optimal results.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. If using as a second cleanser (PM), complete your oil-based cleanser step first.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a pea-to-nickel-sized amount onto your palms. Rub hands together to build a rich, dense foam. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face in gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone, nose, and areas prone to congestion. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your toner and remaining skincare steps.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with frequent breakouts
- You struggle with clogged pores, blackheads, or excess sebum
- You want a soothing cleanser that calms redness and irritation
- You prefer a rich, dense foam texture that feels thorough yet gentle
- You want clean beauty with EWG Green Grade ingredients
- You need a second cleanser for your double-cleansing routine
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (can feel stripping for some)
- You are strict about fungal acne-safe ingredients (contains beeswax)
- You are sensitive to fragrance (contains parfum as the last ingredient)
- You prefer a low-pH (5.5) cleanser to match your skin's natural acidity
- You need a first cleanser to remove heavy makeup or sunscreen
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Tea tree and houttuynia cordata deeply cleanse excess sebum and unclog pores. Leaves skin fresh without greasiness.
Great for balancing the T-zone while the hyaluronic acid prevents dry cheeks from feeling stripped. Top pick for this skin type.
Antibacterial tea tree and anti-inflammatory heartleaf directly target acne causes. Users report fewer breakouts within weeks.
Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic. Houttuynia cordata soothes irritation, but the fragrance and higher pH may bother very reactive skin. Patch test first.
The soap-based formula can feel slightly drying for dry skin types. Users recommend following immediately with a hydrating toner and moisturizer.
Works well as a daily cleanser. The herbal formula offers a thorough cleanse with a refreshing feel. No concerns for normal skin types.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediately Cleaner Skin Feel
Skin feels refreshed and thoroughly cleansed after each use. Pores appear visibly cleaner. The dense foam gives a satisfying deep-clean sensation without tightness.
90% noticed clean, refreshed feelingReduced Redness & Calmer Skin
Houttuynia cordata's anti-inflammatory effects begin to show. Redness and irritation from existing breakouts start to calm down. Skin appears less congested overall.
70% noticed reduced rednessFewer Breakouts & Smaller Pores
Tea tree's antibacterial action helps prevent new breakouts. Users report visibly smaller-looking pores, especially in the T-zone area. Skin tone starts to look more even.
65% noticed fewer new breakoutsClearer, Healthier Complexion
With consistent daily use, skin looks significantly clearer and healthier. Post-acne marks may begin to fade as the skin's overall condition improves with the antioxidant-rich formula.
60% reported clearer overall complexionRatings by platform
790+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High concentration of active botanicals (40.7% + 6.85%)
- Rich, dense, whipped-cream foam that feels luxurious
- Effectively reduces breakouts and calms redness
- Affordable K-beauty price point with generous 150ml size
- All EWG Green Grade ingredients — clean beauty standard
- Eco-friendly recycled paper packaging with soy ink
- A little product goes a long way — very economical
- Leaves skin feeling squeaky clean and refreshed
Criticized
- Can feel drying for dry or dehydrated skin types
- Contains fragrance (parfum) — not ideal for fragrance-sensitive users
- Higher pH (soap-based) — not low-pH friendly
- Herbal/tea tree scent can be strong for some noses
- Not fully fungal acne safe due to beeswax and esters
- 150ml tube may feel small for those who use it twice daily
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also features houttuynia cordata (heartleaf) as the star ingredient with a foam texture. However, uses a different surfactant base and includes BHA for extra exfoliation. Slightly more hydrating formula overall.
Contains houttuynia cordata at a lower 24% concentration versus Mary&May's 40.7%. More budget-friendly but less potent. Lacks the tea tree extract synergy and hyaluronic acid moisture boost.
Focuses on tea tree as its primary active for acne-prone skin. More affordable but lacks the high-concentration houttuynia cordata extract and the anti-inflammatory synergy of Mary&May's dual-botanical formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to preserve freshness.
Squeeze tube with flip cap in eco-friendly recycled paper box printed with soybean oil ink
150ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Transfer to a smaller container for air travel, or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleansing foam does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All ingredients are rated EWG Green Grade. However, as with any skincare product, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The formula contains beeswax and glyceryl stearate SE, which are esters that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. However, since this is a rinse-off product with very brief skin contact time, the risk is significantly lower than leave-on products. Many users with fungal acne use it without issues, but if you are strictly avoiding all potential triggers, consider an alternative.
Yes. Since this is a rinse-off cleanser, it does not interact with active ingredients you apply afterward. You can safely use retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, or niacinamide serums in your routine after cleansing. The soothing houttuynia cordata may actually help buffer potential irritation from strong actives.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The tea tree and houttuynia cordata work together to control sebum and calm breakouts. It also works well for sensitive skin thanks to its soothing properties, though those with very dry skin may find it slightly stripping. If you have dry skin, use it only as your evening cleanser and follow with a hydrating toner immediately.
Most users notice cleaner-feeling skin and less oiliness from the very first use. Visible reduction in redness and breakout frequency typically appears within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. For more significant improvements in pore appearance and overall skin clarity, expect 4–6 weeks of daily use. Results vary depending on your skin condition and the rest of your routine.
Use it as step 2 in your double-cleansing routine (after your oil-based cleanser in the evening) or as your sole cleanser in the morning. Apply it to wet skin, massage into a lather, and rinse off before applying toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It works for both morning and evening routines.
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. While some individual ingredients like myristic acid and palmitic acid are fatty acids, they are saponified (turned into soap) by potassium hydroxide in the formulation and rinsed off completely. As a wash-off product, the risk of clogging pores is minimal. It is actually designed to deeply cleanse and unclog pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, as only a small amount is needed per wash to create a rich lather. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed after use for best freshness.
Verdict: The Mary&May Houttuynia Cordata + Tea Tree Cleansing Foam is an excellent, high-value K-beauty cleanser for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The standout 40.7% houttuynia cordata concentration backed by genuine scientific research — combined with 6.85% tea tree extract — delivers real soothing and antibacterial benefits that go beyond marketing claims. The rich, whipped-cream foam feels luxurious and effective. Minor downsides include the higher pH (soap-based formula), added fragrance, and potential for dryness on non-oily skin types. For the price point and ingredient quality, this is one of the best acne-focused cleansers in the K-beauty space. Pair it with a low-pH toner for best results.
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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Palmitic Acid
Fragrance, Opacifying, Sufactant, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Melaleuca Cajaputi Extract
Tonic
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|