Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser
Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, non-stripping gel cleanser powered by antioxidant-rich matcha, hemp seed oil, and 15% glycerin. Clinically proven to increase skin moisture capacity for 48 hours after a single use. Deeply cleanses while preserving your skin barrier — no tightness, no dryness, just clean and hydrated skin.
Antioxidant-Rich Matcha
Matcha green tea (Camellia Sinensis) is the first ingredient, delivering potent catechins (EGCG) that fight free radical damage and calm redness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntioxidant-Rich Matcha
Matcha green tea (Camellia Sinensis) is the first ingredient, delivering potent catechins (EGCG) that fight free radical damage and calm redness.
Upcycled Hemp Seed Oil
Cold-pressed hemp seed oil rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids seals in moisture and strengthens the skin barrier.
15% Glycerin Hydration
A high concentration of the gold-standard humectant draws water into the skin, clinically proven to boost moisture capacity for 48 hours.
Barrier-Friendly Surfactants
Coconut-derived cleansing agents (Coco-Betaine, Coco-Glucoside) gently lift impurities without stripping natural lipids or disrupting the acid mantle.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains hemp seed oil (Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil) and sweet almond oil, which are fatty acid-rich oils that can feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you have active fungal acne.
Most ingredients score 0 on the comedogenicity scale. Hemp seed oil and caprylic/capric triglyceride are low-risk. The wash-off nature further reduces pore-clogging potential.
Free from fragrances, essential oils, sulfates, parabens, and drying alcohols. Gentle coconut-derived surfactants and a skin-balanced pH of 5.0–6.0.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA treatments. As a gentle, low-pH cleanser it prepares skin without irritation before actives.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract is present. While topical gluten is generally considered safe, those with severe celiac or gluten sensitivity may want to consult a dermatologist.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMatcha / Camellia Sinensis ~40%Proven
Present as both leaf water (1st ingredient) and leaf powder, matcha delivers a potent dose of EGCG catechins — among the most researched natural antioxidants in skincare. Protects against UV-induced free radical damage and soothes inflammation.
- Antioxidant power: EGCG in green tea has been shown to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in skin cells.
- Anti-inflammatory: Catechins help calm redness and irritation, beneficial for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
- Antimicrobial: Green tea polyphenols demonstrate antibacterial properties that may help with acne-prone skin.
Glycerin 15%Proven
A gold-standard humectant at a generous 15% concentration. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin, improves barrier function, and helps maintain the skin's natural lipid structure in a healthy liquid crystal state.
- Proven humectant: Effective from as low as 3%, with even more benefits for dry skin at concentrations up to 20–40%.
- Barrier support: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy state and protects against irritation.
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — does not clog pores.
Hemp Seed Oil (Cannabis Sativa) N/APromising
Cold-pressed upcycled hemp seed oil rich in linoleic acid (Omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (Omega-3). Nourishes the skin barrier, locks in moisture, and provides anti-inflammatory benefits without a heavy, greasy feel.
- Rich in EFAs: Contains a balanced ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids that support skin barrier repair.
- Anti-inflammatory: Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content helps calm irritated and inflamed skin.
- Non-psychoactive: Contains negligible THC — this is a cosmetic seed oil, not a cannabis extract.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) N/AProven
Pro-vitamin B5 penetrates deeper into skin layers where it converts to pantothenic acid. A multi-tasking humectant that moisturizes, soothes inflammation, and promotes healthy lipid production for a stronger barrier.
- Barrier repair: Studies show panthenol stimulates lipid synthesis, strengthening the skin barrier over time.
- Anti-irritant: Can reduce irritation caused by other ingredients such as surfactants and preservatives.
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — safe for all skin types.
Sodium PCA N/AProven
A naturally occurring component of the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). This skin-identical humectant helps your skin hold onto water and stay optimally hydrated from within.
- Skin-identical: Found naturally in the stratum corneum as part of the NMF complex.
- Hygroscopic: Attracts and retains atmospheric moisture to keep skin plump and comfortable.
Oat Kernel Extract (Avena Sativa) N/AProven
Finely processed oat extract loaded with soothing beta-glucan and avenanthramides. Recognized by the FDA as an active skin protectant, it calms irritation, reduces redness, and strengthens the barrier — especially beneficial for eczema-prone and reactive skin.
- FDA-recognized: Colloidal oatmeal is an approved OTC skin protectant ingredient under the FDA monograph.
- Soothes inflammation: Avenanthramides in oats have potent anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties.
24 ingredients
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Water (Aqua/Eau), Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Coco-Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Methyl Gluceth-10, Xanthan Gum, Cellulose Gum, Benzyl Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Sodium Polyacrylate, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Chloride, Panthenol, Sodium PCA, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as a second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (PM) or as a standalone morning cleanser. Pair with KraveBeauty Makeup Re-Wined oil cleanser for removing makeup and SPF first.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face and neck. Avoid hot or cold water, which can irritate and shock the skin barrier.
Apply a Dime-Sized Amount
Squeeze a small amount (about the size of a coin) onto your fingertips. The bouncy gel texture will create a silky, light lather when activated with water.
Massage Gently
Using soft circular motions, massage the cleanser over your entire face and neck for 30–60 seconds. Be gentle — never scrub or pull at the skin.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Pat (don't rub) dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with toner or serum while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin that feels tight after cleansing
- You want a gentle second cleanser for a double-cleanse routine
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas
- You're on retinol or other actives and need a non-stripping cleanser
- You want a pregnancy-safe cleanser with antioxidant benefits
- You value sustainable, eco-conscious packaging
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia) — contains triggering oils
- You prefer a rich, foamy lather (this creates only a light, silky lather)
- You need a single cleanser to remove heavy/waterproof makeup
- You have very oily skin and want a deeper, more astringent cleanse
- You have a severe gluten/oat allergy (contains oat extract)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe 15% glycerin, hemp seed oil, and panthenol trio ensures no moisture is stripped. Skin feels soft, plump, and comfortable after every wash.
Fragrance-free, essential oil-free, gentle surfactants, and soothing oat and matcha extracts make this ideal for reactive and easily irritated skin.
Effectively cleanses without over-drying the cheeks or under-cleaning the T-zone. Balanced enough for mixed skin zones.
Cleanses gently but may not feel deep-cleaning enough for very oily skin. Some oily skin users may prefer a foaming cleanser for a more thorough cleanse.
Non-comedogenic (1/5) and supports a healthy barrier. However, not fungal-acne safe. Great for bacterial acne when paired with targeted treatments.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated right after the first wash. No tightness or dryness. Clinically proven to boost moisture capacity for up to 48 hours after a single use.
95% noticed softer skinReduced Tightness & Irritation
Daily use noticeably reduces post-wash tightness. Dry patches begin to improve and overall skin texture feels smoother and more balanced.
85% noticed less tightnessStronger Barrier & Calmer Skin
Skin barrier function improves with continued gentle cleansing. Redness and sensitivity may decrease. Skin appears healthier and more resilient against environmental stressors.
75% noticed calmer skinLong-Term Barrier Health
Consistent use supports a healthy, balanced skin ecosystem. Many users report fewer breakouts, less reactivity, and an overall improvement in skin comfort and tone.
70% reported fewer breakoutsRatings by platform
9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — never leaves skin tight or dry
- Satisfying bouncy jelly texture that glides on smoothly
- Fragrance-free with a faint natural matcha scent
- 15% glycerin for proven, lasting hydration
- Clean, short ingredient list with no harmful additives
- Sustainable PCR packaging and upcycled ingredients
- Works beautifully under retinol and active ingredient routines
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Small 120ml tube doesn't last long with twice-daily use
- Low lather may not feel "clean enough" for foam lovers
- Cannot remove waterproof makeup alone — needs oil cleanser first
- Not fungal acne safe (contains hemp seed oil)
- Color/texture can vary between batches
- May feel insufficient for very oily skin types
- Price per ml is higher than drugstore alternatives
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar gentle, non-stripping hydrating cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid instead of matcha and hemp seed oil. Larger 16oz size available. Lotion-like texture instead of bouncy gel. Lacks antioxidant focus but excellent barrier support.
Another gentle, non-foaming hydrating cleanser with ceramides and niacinamide. Uses prebiotic thermal spring water instead of matcha. Cream-like texture. Slightly more suited for dry/sensitive skin than combination types.
Ultra-minimal, free-from-everything gel cleanser. No fragrance, dyes, parabens, or formaldehyde. Lacks the matcha antioxidants and hemp seed oil, but fungal acne safe. Ideal for the most sensitive and reactive skin types.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEKraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Cleanser
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed to prevent the gel from drying out.
85% post-consumer recycled (PCR) squeeze tube with 100% PCR PP cap. Recyclable box made from FSC-certified paper with soy-based inks.
Yes — 120ml is over 100ml TSA/airport limit. A mini 30ml travel size is available separately.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. It is also fragrance-free and essential oil-free, making it a gentle choice for hormonally sensitive skin.
No. This cleanser contains Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, which are fatty acid-containing ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser instead.
Yes. This is an ideal cleanser to pair with active ingredients. Its gentle, non-stripping formula and skin-balanced pH (5.0–6.0) won't compromise your skin barrier before applying potent treatments. Many users on tretinoin and retinol routines use this cleanser specifically because it doesn't amplify irritation or dryness from their actives.
It is best suited for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types. Combination skin types will also benefit. Very oily skin types may find it too gentle and prefer a foaming cleanser. The brand states it is made for all skin types but especially dry and sensitive skin.
You will feel an immediate difference from the first wash — skin will feel clean, soft, and hydrated with no tightness. Clinically, the product boosts skin moisture capacity for up to 48 hours after a single use. Over 1–2 weeks of consistent use, expect reduced dryness and irritation. After 4+ weeks, skin barrier health should noticeably improve.
Use it as the second step in a double-cleanse routine (after an oil cleanser like KraveBeauty Makeup Re-Wined) in the evening. In the morning, use it as your standalone cleanser. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 — very low risk. Most of its ingredients (glycerin, panthenol, sodium PCA, matcha) score 0 on the comedogenicity scale. As a wash-off product, even the small amounts of oils present have minimal time to interact with pores. It is non-comedogenic for the vast majority of users.
The cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With twice-daily use, the 120ml tube typically lasts 6–8 weeks. The color and texture may naturally vary slightly between batches due to the use of naturally-derived matcha — this is normal and does not affect the product's effectiveness.
Verdict: The KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser lives up to its cult-favorite reputation. With 15% glycerin, antioxidant-rich matcha as the first ingredient, and barrier-nourishing hemp seed oil, it delivers a genuinely hydrating cleanse that respects your skin barrier — rare in the cleanser category. It's pregnancy-safe, fragrance-free, and pairs beautifully with active ingredient routines. The only notable downsides: it's not fungal acne safe due to its oils, the 120ml tube feels small for the price compared to drugstore competitors, and very oily skin types may want something more deep-cleansing. For dry, sensitive, and normal skin types seeking a gentle, effective daily cleanser with real antioxidant benefits, this is one of the best options available.
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
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.