Keracynl Foaming Gel
Keracynl Foaming Gel
Product Description
Product overview
Ducray Keracynl Foaming Gel by Ducray is a soap-free, biodegradable cleansing gel formulated for oily and acne-prone skin on the face and body. Powered by patented Myrtacine® New Generation (myrtle leaf extract) and a gentle zinc-based surfactant system with 84% naturally-derived ingredients, it deeply cleanses pores, helps reduce blemishes after 7 days, and respects the skin barrier — suitable for teens (from age 9) and adults.
Patented Myrtacine® New Generation
Myrtle leaf extract that helps fight C. acnes bacteria by limiting biofilm formation, reducing pimples while soothing the skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatented Myrtacine® New Generation
Myrtle leaf extract that helps fight C. acnes bacteria by limiting biofilm formation, reducing pimples while soothing the skin.
Visible Results in 7 Days
Clinical study (54 subjects, twice daily) showed reduction in imperfections after 1 week. 100% reported skin felt purified.
Skin Barrier Friendly
Soap-free, sulfate-free formulation with zinc coceth sulfate and amphoteric surfactants gently cleanses without stripping.
Family-Friendly Cleanser
Tested for use with topical and oral acne treatments. Suitable for pre-teens from 9 years old, teens, and adults.
Face & Body Multi-Use
Single product addresses acne and oily skin on face, chest, shoulders, and back — ideal for full-body breakouts.
Biodegradable Formula
Tested per OECD 301B standard. Pierre Fabre is certified at the highest "Exemplary" level of AFNOR Committed to CSR.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. As a rinse-off cleanser with mild ingredients, it's considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains polysorbate 20, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, and glyceryl laurate (monolaurin) — esters and fatty acid derivatives that can feed Malassezia yeast. As a wash-off product the risk is reduced, but those with confirmed fungal acne should patch test.
Brand-tested as non-comedogenic. Ingredients are water-soluble, rinse-off, and free of pore-clogging oils, making it suitable for acne-prone and congested skin.
Tolerance-tested in combination with topical and oral acne medications (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, isotretinoin) — gentle enough not to compound dryness or irritation.
The formula includes parfum and CI 42090 (Blue 1) for sensory experience and color. Those with very sensitive skin or fragrance allergies should patch test first.
Contains no animal-derived ingredients or derivatives. Manufactured by Pierre Fabre Laboratories at AFNOR Exemplary CSR level in France.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMyrtus Communis Leaf Extract (Myrtacine®) ~0.1%Proven
Patented myrtle leaf extract from Pierre Fabre, the hero active in the Keracynl line. Targets Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) bacteria by disrupting its biofilm structure — the protective matrix that lets bacteria thrive deep in pores.
- Mechanism: Anti-biofilm activity confirmed by Pierre Fabre via confocal microscopy analysis.
- Clinical: 100% of users reported skin felt purified after 7 days (54-subject tolerability and efficacy study).
- Bonus: Soothing properties help calm inflammation around active blemishes.
Zinc Coceth Sulfate ~10–15%Proven
The primary surfactant in the formula — a zinc-bound, coconut-derived cleansing agent that's gentler than sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) while delivering rich foam. It deposits trace amounts of zinc on the skin after rinsing, which may help regulate sebum and reduce bacterial activity.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and glucose — readily biodegradable.
- Skin benefit: Zinc has astringent and antibacterial properties documented in dermatology literature for acne support.
- Tolerance: Considered well-tolerated by sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Glycerin ~3%Proven
A humectant that draws water into the skin to keep it hydrated during cleansing. Critical in an acne cleanser because it offsets the drying effect of surfactants and helps preserve the skin barrier — which is often compromised by harsh anti-acne products.
- Function: Pulls moisture from the air and deeper skin layers to the surface stratum corneum.
- Barrier: Helps protect from irritation and supports recovery during active acne treatment.
Lauryl Betaine + Decyl Glucoside Co-surfactantsProven
Two ultra-mild secondary surfactants. Lauryl betaine (an amphoteric surfactant) reduces the harshness of stronger detergents, while decyl glucoside (a sugar-based surfactant from coconut/palm and corn) is one of the gentlest cleansing agents in cosmetics — frequently used in baby and sensitive-skin products.
- Lauryl betaine: Adds creamy lather while neutralizing irritation potential of anionic surfactants.
- Decyl glucoside: Plant-derived, biodegradable, and considered very mild — pH-friendly.
Glyceryl Laurate (Monolaurin) ActivePromising
A glycerin-derived monoester from lauric acid (sourced from coconut). Marketed in this formula for sebum-regulating and mattifying benefits, helping reduce shine on oily skin. Also has documented antimicrobial activity.
- Sebum control: Brand claims monolaurin helps regulate sebum and mattify the complexion.
- Antimicrobial: Lauric acid derivatives show activity against gram-positive bacteria including C. acnes.
Citric Acid pH adjusterProven
Used here in a small quantity to balance the formula's pH to a skin-compatible level (~5.5). Not present at exfoliating concentrations — its role is to keep the cleanser gentle and barrier-friendly, not to deliver AHA effects.
- Function: pH adjuster — keeps the formula in skin's natural acidic range.
- Why it matters: A balanced pH supports the acid mantle, reducing post-cleanse tightness and irritation.
20 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Zinc Coceth Sulfate, Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol, Glycerin, Lauryl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, Polysorbate 20, Trideceth-9, CI 42090 (Blue 1), Citric Acid, Parfum (Fragrance), Glyceryl Laurate, Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract (Myrtacine®), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as thefirst step morning and evening on damp skin. Pairs well with BHA/salicylic acid toners, niacinamide serums, and oil-free moisturizers.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face & Hands
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Hot water can over-dry and trigger oil rebound — keep it tepid.
Dispense a Small Amount
A pea-sized to coin-sized amount (about 1–2 ml) is enough for the face. Use more for body areas like back or shoulders.
Lather & Massage
Work the gel into a creamy foam in your hands, then gently massage across the face for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone and any oily or congested areas. Avoid the eye contour.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until the foam is fully removed. Avoid contact with eyes — rinse immediately if it happens.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat (don't rub) with a clean towel. Apply your acne treatment, moisturizer, and SPF on damp skin for best absorption.
Frequency
Use morning and evening. If your skin feels tight, switch to evenings only and use a gentle hydrating cleanser in the AM.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You break out on the face, chest, shoulders, or back
- You're a teenager or pre-teen (from age 9) dealing with hormonal acne
- You're using prescription acne treatments (retinoids, BPO, antibiotics) and need a compatible cleanser
- You want a French pharmacy formula tested by dermatologists
- You prefer a gentle, soap-free, sulfate-free wash with foaming texture
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe acne-friendly cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, mature, or eczema-prone skin (try a cream cleanser)
- You have confirmed fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
- You're highly fragrance-sensitive or allergic to dyes
- You prefer fully unscented, hypoallergenic minimalist formulas
- You need a cleanser with active exfoliating BHA (this contains no salicylic acid)
- Your skin reacts to PEGs or ethoxylated surfactants
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRemoves excess sebum without stripping. Zinc coceth sulfate and monolaurin help regulate oil production over time.
Hero use case. Myrtacine® targets C. acnes biofilm; non-comedogenic; clinically tested with topical and oral acne medications.
Cleanses oily T-zone effectively while glycerin protects drier cheek areas from over-drying.
Soap-free and biodegradable, but contains parfum and Blue 1 dye — patch test if you're highly fragrance-reactive.
Designed for oily skin — may feel too cleansing if you have truly dry or dehydrated skin. Use only at night and follow with rich moisturizer.
Contains polysorbate 20, glyceryl laurate and PEG-castor oil — not Malassezia-safe. Choose a fungal-acne specific cleanser instead.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSClean, Comfortable Skin
Skin feels deeply cleansed, refreshed, and not tight. The mild fragrance fades quickly after rinsing. 100% of clinical-trial users said skin felt comforted right after use.
100% noticed (54-subject study)Reduced Imperfections & Purified Skin
Brand clinical study reports a visible reduction in blemishes after one week of twice-daily use. Skin feels purified; oiliness is more controlled.
100% reported skin purifiedSignificant Acne Lesion Reduction
Clinical evaluations have reported up to a 38% reduction in acne lesions over 28 days when used twice daily. Pores appear less congested; texture is smoother.
~38% lesion reductionLong-Term Maintenance
Continued use helps keep breakouts under control alongside topical/oral acne treatments. Skin barrier remains intact thanks to the gentle cleansing system.
Strongest long-term resultsRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Soap-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, biodegradable formula
- Patented Myrtacine® antibacterial — unique vs. salicylic acid cleansers
- Tolerance-tested with prescription acne medications
- Suitable for face AND body — great for back/chest acne
- Pediatric-friendly (from age 9), pregnancy-safe
- Made in France by dermatologist-trusted Pierre Fabre Labs
- Concentrated formula — a little goes a long way (400ml lasts months)
- 84% naturally-derived ingredients
Criticized
- Contains parfum (fragrance) and CI 42090 Blue 1 dye
- Not fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe due to polysorbate 20 & glyceryl laurate
- Can be drying for sensitive or dry skin types
- No active exfoliant (no BHA) — won't unclog pores chemically
- Higher price point than CeraVe or Cetaphil
- Limited US retail availability — often imported
- Active concentration of Myrtacine® not publicly disclosed
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe closest French-pharmacy dupe. Soap-free foaming gel for oily/acne-prone skin with zinc PCA and thermal spring water. Uses different actives but targets identical concerns. Slightly more available in the US.
Drugstore staple with niacinamide, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. Fragrance-free and gentler on sensitive skin, but lacks the targeted anti-acne actives. A great everyday clean for oily skin without breakout-fighting power.
Another French pharmacy soap-free gel for oily/acne-prone skin. Contains Avène thermal spring water and monolaurin. Very comparable feel and target audience; similar price point.
German pharmacy alternative for blemish-prone skin with licochalcone A. Soap-free, lower price point. Less specifically antibacterial than Myrtacine® but well-tolerated and effective for mild acne.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on packaging)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid extreme temperatures. Keep tightly closed.
Plastic squeeze tube (200ml) or pump bottle (400ml family size). Hygienic and travel-practical.
200ml format exceeds carry-on liquid limits (100ml). Decant to a smaller bottle for flights, or check the bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the actives typically flagged during pregnancy. As a rinse-off cleanser based on gentle surfactants, glycerin, and myrtle leaf extract, it's considered safe to use throughout pregnancy and while breastfeeding. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist about your full routine.
No, it's not fully fungal-acne safe. The formula contains polysorbate 20, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, and glyceryl laurate (monolaurin) — esters and fatty-acid derivatives that can theoretically feed Malassezia yeast. Because it's a wash-off product the practical risk is reduced, but if you have confirmed fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis, choose a cleanser specifically formulated to be FA-safe.
Yes — and it's specifically tolerance-tested in combination with topical and oral acne treatments. Cleanse first, then apply your active. With retinoids or BHA, watch for over-drying: if your skin feels tight, use Keracynl only at night and a gentle hydrating cleanser in the morning. Vitamin C layers fine after cleansing on damp skin.
It's optimized for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin on the face and body. It's also suitable for adolescent skin (from age 9). It can work for normal skin during periodic breakouts but is not the best choice for very dry, mature, or eczema-prone skin — those types benefit from cream or balm cleansers.
Brand clinical data (54-subject study, twice daily) shows skin feels purified immediately, with visible reduction in imperfections after 7 days. Significant lesion reduction (~38%) has been observed at 28 days when used twice daily, on its own or with anti-acne treatments. Long-term clarity benefits build over 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
It's the first step. Use morning and evening on damp skin: lather, massage 30–60 seconds, rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner (optional), targeted treatment (BHA, niacinamide, retinoid), serum, moisturizer, and SPF in the morning. For full-body acne, use it in the shower on chest, back, and shoulders.
No. It's brand-tested as non-comedogenic (rated 0/5). The formula contains no comedogenic oils or waxes, and as a rinse-off product it doesn't leave a residue that could clog pores. It's specifically designed for acne-prone skin and clinically tested alongside acne medications.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — look for the open-jar symbol with "12M" on the packaging. Stored in a cool, dry place and tightly closed, the formula remains effective for that full year. With twice-daily face use, a 200ml tube typically lasts 4–6 months; the 400ml family size lasts 8–12 months.
Verdict: Ducray Keracynl Foaming Gel earns its reputation as a French pharmacy staple for acne-prone skin. The patented Myrtacine® biofilm-disrupting active sets it apart from generic salicylic acid cleansers, and the soap-free, sulfate-free, biodegradable formula respects the skin barrier — crucial when layering acne medications. It's compatible with prescription treatments, safe during pregnancy, suitable from age 9, and works on both face and body. The downsides — added fragrance, Blue 1 dye, and a formulation that isn't fully fungal-acne safe — are worth noting for sensitive users. But for teens, adults, and anyone fighting hormonal or persistent breakouts, it's a reliably gentle yet effective daily cleanser that punches above its drugstore price.
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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc Coceth Sulfate
Cleansing, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Betaine
Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent
|
|







