Liquid Cleanser Oil Control
Liquid Cleanser Oil Control
Product Description
Product overview
A mild, soap-free liquid cleanser formulated with gentle surfactants and Sulfated Olive Oil to remove excess oil, sebum, and impurities without stripping or drying the skin. pH-balanced and SLS-free, designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin conditions.
Soap-Free Deep Cleansing
Uses gentle synthetic surfactants like Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate instead of harsh soaps, effectively removing oil and impurities without disrupting the skin barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSoap-Free Deep Cleansing
Uses gentle synthetic surfactants like Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate instead of harsh soaps, effectively removing oil and impurities without disrupting the skin barrier.
Sulfated Olive Oil Technology
Contains Sulfated Olive Oil, a specialized degreasing agent that purifies the skin and dissolves excess sebum more effectively than standard surfactants.
pH-Balanced Formula
Maintains skin's natural pH (~5.5), preventing the overproduction of oil that occurs when the acid mantle is disrupted by alkaline cleansers.
Non-Drying Hydration
Glycerin and gentle emollients keep skin hydrated post-cleanse, ensuring your face feels clean, soft, and moisturized — never tight or stripped.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Imidazolidinyl Urea (a formaldehyde-releasing preservative) and Parfum. While the rinse-off format minimizes absorption, consult your doctor before use during pregnancy.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Glycol Distearate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sorbitan Oleate, and Myristic Acid — ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The formula is designed not to clog or block pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Free from Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and traditional soaps. Uses milder amino acid-based surfactants that are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, and chemical exfoliants. As a gentle rinse-off cleanser, it won't interfere with your active treatments.
Contains Parfum (fragrance). Those with extremely sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first, although the scent is mild and rinsed off quickly.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Lauroyl SarcosinateProven
A mild, biodegradable amino acid-based surfactant derived from sarcosine (a natural amino acid) and lauric acid. It effectively removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it far gentler than SLS.
- CIR Expert Panel: Deemed safe in rinse-off products up to 15% concentration and in leave-on products up to 5%.
- International Journal of Toxicology: Found to be non-toxic, non-mutagenic, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0–1 — very low risk of clogging pores.
Sulfated Olive OilProven
A specialized cleansing agent created by treating olive oil with sulfuric acid. It acts as a powerful degreasing surfactant that dissolves and removes excess sebum from oily skin while providing some emollient properties from its olive oil base.
- Function: Surfactant and cleansing agent specifically designed for oil control.
- Mechanism: Breaks down and emulsifies sebum on the skin surface for easy rinsing.
Glycerin ~2-5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. It prevents the tight, dry feeling often associated with acne cleansers, keeping skin balanced and hydrated after washing.
- British Journal of Dermatology: Proven to improve skin hydration and restore the barrier function.
- Safety: Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and safe for all skin types including sensitive skin.
Cocamidopropyl BetaineProven
A mild, coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant that serves as a secondary cleanser and foam booster. It thickens the formula, enhances lather, and helps gather dirt and impurities for removal.
- 2012 Study: High-grade, pure Cocamidopropyl Betaine was found not to induce allergic reactions. Previous sensitization concerns were traced to impurities, not the ingredient itself.
- Function: Co-surfactant, foam booster, and viscosity enhancer.
Disodium Laureth SulfosuccinateProven
An extremely mild, non-irritating surfactant with excellent foam properties. Often recommended for gentle cleansers suitable for sensitive or baby skin. Provides effective cleansing without the harshness of sulfates.
- Manufacturer Data: Described as very mild and non-irritating with great foam characteristics.
- Use Case: Commonly found in baby shampoos and sensitive skin formulas due to its gentleness.
16 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Myristic Acid, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Glycerin, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sulfated Olive Oil, Glycol Distearate, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Parfum (Fragrance), Sorbitan Oleate, Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in both your AM and PM routines. Shake well before use. Can also be used as a single cleanser or as the second step in a double-cleanse method after an oil cleanser at night.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake the Bottle
Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the formula is properly mixed and the active surfactants are evenly distributed.
Wet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can strip skin oils excessively and cause irritation.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a small amount onto your palm, lather gently, and massage into wet skin using circular motions for 30–60 seconds, focusing on oily areas like the T-zone.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Ensure no residue remains, especially around the hairline and jawline. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
- You're looking for a gentle, soap-free cleanser that controls oil
- You want an affordable daily cleanser for acne-prone skin
- You need an SLS-free formula that won't irritate
- You prefer a short, simple ingredient list without complex actives
- You live in a hot, humid climate and need effective oil removal
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — this product is not FA-safe
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin — may feel slightly stripping
- You are sensitive to fragrance — contains Parfum
- You are pregnant and want to avoid formaldehyde releasers
- You need active acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
- You want a completely fragrance-free cleanser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is the primary target skin type. Sulfated Olive Oil and multiple surfactants effectively remove excess sebum, leaving skin clean and matte without overdrying.
Great for combination skin — effectively degreases the T-zone while Glycerin prevents the drier cheek areas from feeling tight or stripped.
Non-comedogenic, pH-balanced formula that cleanses pores without aggravating existing breakouts. No active acne treatments, but excellent as a supporting cleanser.
Gentle amino acid-based surfactants are well-tolerated. However, contains Parfum and Imidazolidinyl Urea which may concern very reactive skin types. Patch test recommended.
Designed for oil control, so it may leave dry skin feeling slightly stripped. If you have dry skin, the Acne-Aid Gentle Cleanser (green cap) is a better choice.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Oil Control
Skin feels noticeably cleaner and less oily after each wash. The matte finish lasts for several hours. Mild adjustment period is normal as your skin adapts to the new cleanser.
85% noticed cleaner feeling immediatelyReduced Shine & Fewer New Breakouts
Consistent use begins to regulate sebum production. Users report skin feeling less greasy throughout the day and a noticeable reduction in new pimple formation.
70% noticed less oiliness by week 2Clearer, Smoother Complexion
With regular twice-daily use, skin appears smoother and more refined. Existing blemishes begin to fade as pores stay cleaner. Overall skin texture improves.
60% reported smoother skin by week 4Sustained Clarity & Oil Balance
Long-term users report sustained improvement in oil control and fewer acne flare-ups. Best results come when combined with a complete skincare routine including moisturizer and sunscreen.
55% reported fewer breakouts overallRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely effective at removing excess oil and sebum
- Soap-free and SLS-free — gentle on the skin barrier
- pH-balanced formula maintains healthy skin acid mantle
- Non-comedogenic and won't clog pores
- Very affordable, especially in Southeast Asian markets
- Short, simple ingredient list with only 16 ingredients
- Good lather even with a small amount of product
- Leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized, not tight
Criticized
- Only 100ml bottle — runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) — not ideal for very sensitive skin
- Contains Imidazolidinyl Urea (formaldehyde releaser)
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- No active acne-fighting ingredients (no BHA, BPO, etc.)
- Can feel slightly drying without follow-up moisturizer
- Difficult to purchase outside Southeast Asia
- Requires shaking before each use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similarly mild, soap-free, and pH-balanced. Uses a different surfactant blend (SLS in low concentration). More widely available worldwide. Fragrance-free version available. Less effective at oil control but gentler overall.
Free from fragrance, parabens, formaldehyde releasers, and dyes. Better for sensitive and reactive skin. Less targeted oil control but a cleaner, simpler formula. Fungal acne safe.
Japanese pharmacy cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration. Fragrance-free and gentle. Comes in a convenient foaming pump. Less oil control focus but better for combination-dry skin types.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Keep the cap tightly closed. Avoid direct sunlight.
White plastic squeeze bottle with flip-top cap (red cap for Oil Control variant)
Yes — 100ml bottle is TSA/airline carry-on compliant
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula contains Imidazolidinyl Urea, a formaldehyde-releasing preservative, and Parfum (fragrance). While systemic absorption is minimal in a rinse-off cleanser, most dermatologists recommend avoiding formaldehyde releasers during pregnancy as a precaution. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone are present. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Glycol Distearate (a fatty acid ester), PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate (an ester), Sorbitan Oleate (an ester), and Myristic Acid (a fatty acid). If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, which are Malassezia-safe.
Yes! Acne-Aid Liquid Cleanser Oil Control is a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser without any active ingredients that would conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. It is an excellent supporting cleanser to use alongside these actives. Simply cleanse first with Acne-Aid, then apply your active treatments on dry skin as directed.
This cleanser is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. It excels at removing excess sebum and oil. It also works well for combination skin, especially in hot and humid climates. Those with dry or very sensitive skin may find it slightly stripping — the Acne-Aid Gentle Cleanser (green cap) is a better option for those skin types.
Most users notice an immediate improvement in how clean and matte their skin feels after the first use. Oil control benefits become more consistent within 1–2 weeks of twice-daily use. For visible improvement in acne and overall skin clarity, expect 3–4 weeks of consistent use. Remember, this is a cleanser — not an acne treatment — so it works best as part of a complete skincare routine.
Acne-Aid Liquid Cleanser Oil Control should be the first step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. In the PM, you can use it as a standalone cleanser or as the second step after an oil-based cleanser (double cleanse method). Follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
No. Acne-Aid Liquid Cleanser Oil Control is rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale and is officially labeled as non-comedogenic. The primary surfactant, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, has a comedogenic rating of 0. As a rinse-off product, ingredients have minimal time to penetrate pores, further reducing any clogging risk.
Acne-Aid Liquid Cleanser Oil Control has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 100ml bottle typically lasts 4–6 weeks with twice-daily use, so you will likely finish it well before the PAO expires. Store below 30°C and keep the cap tightly closed between uses.
Verdict: Acne-Aid Liquid Cleanser Oil Control is a solid, no-frills cleanser that does exactly what it promises — effectively remove excess oil without harsh stripping. Its soap-free, SLS-free, pH-balanced formula with only 16 ingredients makes it a trustworthy daily cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin, especially popular across Southeast Asia. The Sulfated Olive Oil provides genuine oil-control benefits rarely seen in this price range. However, the inclusion of fragrance and a formaldehyde-releasing preservative prevent it from scoring higher, and it is not suitable for fungal acne sufferers. For the price and performance, it remains an excellent value — just pair it with a good moisturizer and sunscreen 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 1 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 2 |
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Cleansing, Foaming, Hydrotrope, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|