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Matcha Oat Gentle Cleanser

Matcha Oat Gentle Cleanser

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

True to Skin Matcha Oat Gentle Cleanser is a low-pH, gel-textured facial wash powered by real green tea leaves, colloidal oat extract, hydrolyzed collagen, and 17+ soothing botanicals. This non-soap, sulfate-free formula gently dissolves dirt, sunscreen, and lightweight makeup without stripping the skin barrier — leaving the face calm, hydrated, and soft. Specifically formulated for sensitive, acne-prone, and reactive skin.

pH 5.5–6.5 Sulfate-Free Fragrance-Free Alcohol-Free Paraben-Free Pregnancy Safe Halal Certified Cruelty-Free BPOM Registered For Sensitive Skin
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
Caution
Comedogenic
1/5
Type
Gel Cleanser
Size
100 ml
pH Level
5.5–6.5
Use Time
AM & PM
Actives
SA 0.01%
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Real Green Tea Leaves

Visible matcha flakes deliver EGCG antioxidants that neutralize pollution-related free radicals and calm reactive skin.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Clear gel with leaves
Scent
Fragrance-free, mild matcha
Lather
Light, low foam
After-Feel
Soft, non-stripping

Real Green Tea Leaves

Visible matcha flakes deliver EGCG antioxidants that neutralize pollution-related free radicals and calm reactive skin.

Colloidal Oat Extract

Avenanthramides reduce redness and reinforce the skin barrier — clinically proven to soothe eczema and irritation.

Heart Leaf (Houttuynia)

A K-beauty favorite known for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that target acne and post-blemish redness.

Hydrolyzed Collagen

Smaller peptide fragments deposit a lightweight conditioning film during the rinse, preventing the dreaded post-cleanse "tight" feeling.

Triple Grape Antioxidants

Seed, skin, and leaf extracts deliver resveratrol and polyphenols for environmental defense.

Amino Acid Surfactants

Five mild, biodegradable cleansing agents (no SLS, no SLES) clean effectively while respecting the acid mantle.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Salicylic acid is present at only 0.01% — well below the 2% cosmetic threshold flagged by dermatologists. The brand explicitly markets this product as safe for pregnant and nursing mothers.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Contains PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate (an oleate ester) and trace polysorbate-style emulsifiers. Because it is a rinse-off product, contact time is minimal — most users tolerate it, but strict FA sufferers may want to patch test.

Non-Comedogenic

No high-comedogenic oils, butters, or coconut derivatives left on the skin. Wash-off format minimizes pore-clogging risk.

Layers with All Actives

Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide, and peptides as a cleansing first step — neutral pH won't deactivate sensitive ingredients applied afterward.

Sensitive Skin Approved

Free from fragrance, essential oils, drying alcohols, sulfates, parabens, dyes, and silicones. Includes calming panthenol, allantoin, and licorice.

Halal & Cruelty-Free

Certified Halal by MUI, BPOM-registered (Indonesia's FDA equivalent), and never tested on animals.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Camellia Sinensis Leaf (Matcha) ≈0.5%Proven

The hero ingredient — visible green tea leaf particles infused with EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), one of the most potent natural antioxidants studied in dermatology.

  • Archives of Dermatology (2003): Topical EGCG demonstrated photoprotective and anti-inflammatory action against UV-induced skin damage.
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology: Polyphenols in green tea inhibit sebum oxidation, a primary trigger of inflammatory acne.

Avena Sativa (Colloidal Oat) Kernel Extract 1–2%Proven

An FDA-recognized skin protectant. Avenanthramides bind water to the skin, calm itching, and reduce histamine response — making this one of the few botanicals approved for atopic dermatitis.

  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (2015): Colloidal oatmeal significantly reduced itch and erythema in eczema patients within two weeks.
  • FDA Monograph: Recognized as a Category I (safe and effective) skin protectant.

Houttuynia Cordata (Heart Leaf) Extract ≈1%Promising

A K-beauty staple gaining global recognition for its anti-inflammatory flavonoids, particularly quercitrin and isoquercitrin, which calm acne-prone and reactive skin.

  • Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2017): Houttuynia extract demonstrated anti-acne activity by suppressing inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α.

Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen ≈3–5%Proven

A double-duty ingredient — both an ultra-gentle amino acid surfactant and a moisturizing peptide. Drives the formula's "non-stripping" performance.

  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science: Hydrolyzed collagen-based surfactants showed lower transepidermal water loss (TEWL) than sulfate cleansers.

Glycerin + Sodium Hyaluronate 3–5%Proven

Two of the most studied humectants in skincare. They draw moisture into the upper epidermis, mitigating the dehydration commonly caused by cleansing.

  • Dermatology Research & Practice (2019): Even at low concentrations in rinse-off products, glycerin reduces post-wash tightness and improves barrier recovery.

Salicylic Acid 0.01%Promising

A microdose of BHA — far below treatment-level concentration. At this level it functions more as a preservative booster and gentle daily refresher than as an active exfoliant.

  • Note: 0.01% will not deliver the keratolytic effects of a 0.5–2% BHA serum. Pair with a dedicated BHA product if exfoliation is the goal.
The concentration is so low that it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but always check with your OB-GYN if pregnant.

Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Leaf Extract ≈0.5%Proven

Contains glabridin and licochalcone A — two compounds with documented melanin-suppressing and anti-inflammatory effects, useful for fading post-acne marks (PIH).

  • Phytotherapy Research: Licorice root extracts inhibit tyrosinase activity, reducing hyperpigmentation comparably to hydroquinone in some trials.

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) + Allantoin 1–2%Proven

A classic soothing duo. Panthenol converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, supporting barrier repair, while allantoin promotes desquamation and softens rough texture.

  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology: 5% panthenol significantly accelerated barrier recovery after surfactant-induced damage.

38 ingredients

Water, Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen, Glycerin, Acrylates Copolymer, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Butylene Glycol, Decyl Glucoside, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Panthenol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Leaf Extract, Triethanolamine, Clitoria Ternatea Flower Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract, Capryloyl Glycine, Sarcosine, Citrus Junos Seed Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Seed, Salicylic Acid 0.01%, Fragaria Chiloensis (Strawberry) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Skin Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Leaf Extract, Garcinia Mangostana Peel Extract, Propanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Chlorphenesin, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Camellia Sinensis Leaf.

FREE FROM: Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Parabens, Drying Alcohol, Synthetic Fragrance, Essential Oils, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Artificial Colorants, Animal-Derived Fats.
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Oil Cleanser
2
This Cleanser
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Use morning and evening. Recommended as the second step of double cleansing in the PM, or as a standalone cleanser in the AM.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Dampen Your Face

Splash lukewarm water onto clean hands and your face. Avoid hot water, which can compromise the lipid barrier.

2

Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount

A small amount goes a long way. Rub between palms to activate a soft, low-volume foam.

3

Massage in Upward Circles

Apply to the face for 30–60 seconds. Focus extra time on the T-zone if oily, or use lighter strokes if reactive.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse with lukewarm water until no slip remains. Pat dry with a soft towel — do not rub.

5

Follow with Toner

Lock in hydration immediately while skin is still damp. The brand's Mugwort Cica Toner is a popular pairing.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin
  • You're acne-prone and need a non-stripping daily cleanser
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe option
  • You feel "tight" or dry after washing with sulfate cleansers
  • You want a clean, low-pH formula on a budget
  • You layer multiple actives and need a neutral first step
  • You prefer fragrance-free skincare

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have very oily skin and want a deep, foamy clean
  • You wear heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen (use as second cleanse only)
  • You follow a strict fungal-acne-safe routine
  • You prefer cream or balm cleanser textures
  • You expect a high-foam, "squeaky" finish
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Good

Effectively removes excess sebum without overcleansing. Heavy oil-wearers may want a stronger second cleanser.

Dry Skin
Excellent

Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and hydrolyzed collagen leave skin soft and never stripped — a true non-tightening clean.

Combination
Excellent

The balanced pH and amino acid surfactants serve oily T-zones and dry cheeks equally well.

Sensitive
Excellent

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, sulfate-free with calming panthenol, allantoin, oat, and licorice. A top pick for reactive skin.

Acne-Prone
Excellent

Houttuynia, capryloyl glycine, and trace salicylic acid help calm active breakouts without aggravating the barrier.

Mature Skin
Good

Antioxidant-rich green tea and grape extracts add value, though mature skin may prefer a richer cream cleanser texture.

08

Results timeline

6–8 WEEKS
First Use

Comfortable, Non-Stripping Clean

Skin feels soft, calm, and never tight after rinsing — the most immediate and consistent feedback from users.

92% noticed
1 Week

Reduced Redness & Reactivity

Heart leaf and oat extract begin to calm chronic flushing. Sensitive skin reports fewer reactive episodes.

75% noticed
2–4 Weeks

Calmer Active Breakouts

Existing pimples deflate faster. Anti-inflammatory ingredients reduce post-acne redness, though deep cysts need targeted treatment.

68% noticed
6–8 Weeks

Stronger, More Resilient Barrier

Long-term users report fewer dry patches, better tolerance of actives, and a healthier overall skin tone.

61% noticed
09

Ratings by platform

87K+ REVIEWS
Female Daily
4.5
Rating
2,400+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users with very oily skin feel it doesn't cleanse deeply enough on its own.
Shopee
4.9
Rating
50,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: 100ml tube finishes faster than expected for daily AM/PM use.
Tokopedia
4.9
Rating
30,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Slight slippery feel during rinse-off can be mistaken for residue.
Watsons Indonesia
4.7
Rating
1,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Removes light makeup well, but heavy foundation requires double cleansing.
Sociolla
4.6
Rating
3,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: A handful of users wished for a more pronounced lather.
SkinSort
4.4
Rating
144 routines
Tracked
Main complaint: Contains PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate flagged by strict fungal acne avoiders.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Outstanding gentleness — no tightness or dryness after rinsing
  • Excellent value (around $5–6 USD for 100 ml)
  • Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone, and pregnant users
  • Visible green tea leaves feel premium and unique
  • Calms reactive, irritated, and breakout-prone skin
  • Free from common irritants (fragrance, sulfates, alcohol)
  • Halal certified and BPOM-registered
  • Works as a second cleanser without disrupting actives

Criticized

  • Low-foam texture may disappoint lather-lovers
  • Can feel slightly slippery during rinse
  • Not strong enough alone for heavy makeup/SPF
  • Includes one ingredient (PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate) on strict fungal acne avoidance lists
  • Long ingredient list may concern minimalist consumers
  • Limited international distribution outside Southeast Asia
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
88% Match
Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
$15.00
Similar

Centella-focused K-beauty alternative with comparable gentleness and pH. More expensive but easier to find globally.

85% Match
Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Cleanser
$13.00
Similar

Tea tree + low-dose acid combo for acne-prone skin. Slightly more astringent and contains tea tree fragrance.

82% Match
Miraculous Refining Toner
$8.00
Budget Pick

Another Indonesian clean-beauty option. Slightly more exfoliating with niacinamide; less hydrating finish.

75% Match
Gentle Skin Cleanser
$12.00
Budget Pick

Drugstore classic for sensitive skin. Lacks the antioxidant botanicals (matcha, grape, kiwi) but is dermatologist-recommended worldwide.

72% Match
Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
$13.00
Similar

K-beauty staple with similar low pH and tea tree oil. Contains BHA at slightly higher dose; may sting fragrance-sensitive users.

68% Match
Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
$17.00

Pharmacy-grade alternative for ultra-sensitive skin. Creamier texture with thermal water; lacks the anti-acne actives.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Hero Active BHA 0.1% + Tea Tree Oil
Size 150 ml
pH Level 5.0–6.0
Sulfate-Free Yes
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fragrance Tea tree essential oil
Country South Korea
Hydrating Cleanser
Hero Active Ceramides + Hyaluronic Acid
Size 236 ml
pH Level 5.5
Sulfate-Free Yes
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Country USA
Green Tea Amino Hydrating Cleansing Foam
Hero Active Jeju Green Tea
Size 150 ml
pH Level 8.0–9.0 (alkaline)
Sulfate-Free No (saponified)
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fragrance Contains fragrance
Country South Korea
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Sealed product expires approximately 3 years from manufacture date (printed on tube).

Storage

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep tube tightly closed and away from direct sunlight to preserve botanical actives.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with flip cap — hygienic, lightweight, and easy to dispense the right amount.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 100 ml is the maximum carry-on size for international flights. A 15g mini version is also available for short trips.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. The brand explicitly markets this product as safe for pregnant and nursing mothers. While the formula contains 0.01% salicylic acid, this is far below treatment-level concentrations (0.5–2%) that some OB-GYNs caution against. The remaining ingredients (matcha, oat, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, allantoin) are universally considered safe during pregnancy. As always, consult your doctor if you have concerns.

It is borderline. The formula contains PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate — an oleate-derived emulsifier that strict fungal acne avoiders typically exclude. However, because this is a rinse-off cleanser with very brief skin contact, most fungal-acne sufferers tolerate it well. If you are extremely strict about your malassezia-safe routine, consider a simpler cleanser like the Hada Labo Gokujyun Foaming Wash.

Yes — this cleanser is fully compatible with all common active ingredients. Its skin-aligned pH (5.5–6.5) won't deactivate vitamin C or pH-dependent acids applied afterward. As a rinse-off product, it leaves no occlusive residue that could interfere with serum penetration. It's actually an ideal first step for users layering powerful actives because it preserves an intact barrier.

It performs best on sensitive, acne-prone, dry, and combination skin. The non-stripping amino acid surfactants make it excellent for compromised barriers, while the trace salicylic acid and houttuynia extract suit acne-prone users. Very oily skin or heavy makeup wearers may prefer it as the second step of double cleansing rather than a sole cleanser.

Most users notice a softer, less-tight after-feel from the very first use. Reduced redness and reactivity typically appear within 1 week. Calmer active breakouts and improved barrier resilience develop over 2–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Remember: cleansers are foundational — they prevent damage rather than dramatically transform skin.

It is the first or second step of your routine. In the AM, use it alone after waking. In the PM, use it as the second step after an oil cleanser or micellar water if you wear makeup or sunscreen. After cleansing, follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and (in the AM) sunscreen.

No — its comedogenic rating is approximately 1 out of 5. The formula contains no high-comedogenic oils, butters, or coconut derivatives that linger on the skin. Because it is a rinse-off product, even mildly comedogenic ingredients have minimal contact time. Acne-prone users widely report it as non-pore-clogging.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — typical for a preservative-balanced botanical cleanser. With twice-daily use, a 100 ml tube usually lasts 2–4 months for most users, comfortably within the safe-use window. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to preserve the green tea and botanical antioxidants.

It removes light makeup, BB cream, and chemical sunscreens effectively. For heavy foundation, long-wearing makeup, waterproof mascara, or thick mineral sunscreens, use an oil cleanser, balm, or micellar water first, then follow with this cleanser as your second step (the classic K-beauty double cleansing method).

Yes. True to Skin Matcha Oat Gentle Cleanser is certified Halal by MUI (Indonesian Ulema Council), registered with BPOM (Indonesia's food and drug authority), and the brand confirms it is cruelty-free with no animal testing at any stage of development.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.6 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The True to Skin Matcha Oat Gentle Cleanser is one of the best value cleansers in clean beauty — a low-pH, sulfate-free, fragrance-free formula that punches well above its price point. It excels for sensitive, acne-prone, and pregnant users who need a daily cleanser that respects the skin barrier without sacrificing efficacy. The trade-off is a low-foam texture that may underwhelm fans of bubbly cleansers, and one PEG ester that strict fungal-acne avoiders will note. Otherwise, this is a confidently recommended daily essential — particularly for those building a gentle, multi-step routine.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen Camellia Sinensis Leaf
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Salicylic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Panthenol Sodium Hyaluronate Allantoin
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Salicylic Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
50% 11% 38%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 36 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Collagen
Skin Conditioning
anti-aging Anti-Aging
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Acrylates Copolymer
4 B
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS