Med Reinigungsmilch
Med Reinigungsmilch
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, fragrance-free 2-in-1 cleansing milk formulated for ultra-sensitive and reactive skin. Enriched with Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and Glycerin, it removes dirt, makeup, and impurities while preserving the skin's natural moisture barrier. Tested and recommended by the German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB).
2-in-1 Cleansing & Care
Gently removes dirt, makeup (including waterproof), and impurities while simultaneously moisturizing and soothing the skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY2-in-1 Cleansing & Care
Gently removes dirt, makeup (including waterproof), and impurities while simultaneously moisturizing and soothing the skin.
Barrier-Protective Formula
Preserves the skin's natural protective system and supports the balance of the skin flora with gentle, non-stripping ingredients.
Ultra-Clean Formulation
Free from fragrances, parabens, colorants, microplastics, and water-soluble synthetic polymers. Developed per the Balea Clean Beauty Guide.
Allergy-Tested & Approved
Tested and recommended by the German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB e.V.) for people with hypersensitive and allergy-prone skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains 1 potential trigger: Isononyl Isononanoate (an ester that may feed Malassezia yeast). However, this is a rinse-off product with short skin contact time, reducing the risk.
Formulated primarily with non-comedogenic ingredients. Stearyl Alcohol (rated 2) and Butylene Glycol (rated 1) are present but at low concentrations unlikely to clog pores.
Contains zero fragrances, perfumes, or essential oils — ideal for sensitive, reactive, eczema-prone, and rosacea-prone skin types.
No drying alcohols. Contains only Stearyl Alcohol, a fatty (emollient) alcohol that softens skin — not the irritating kind.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. As a gentle, non-active cleanser it will not interfere with or neutralize your treatment products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~3–5%Proven
A naturally occurring humectant and skin-identical ingredient. Glycerin attracts water into the skin and helps maintain the lipid structure between skin cells for a healthier, stronger barrier.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical moisturizer
- Evidence: Effective from as low as 3%; proven to improve barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1–2%Proven
A soothing humectant that converts to Vitamin B5 in the skin. Moisturizes, calms irritation, supports wound healing, and promotes healthy lipid production for a stronger skin barrier.
- Function: Soothing, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory
- Evidence: Clinically shown to reduce irritation from other ingredients; promotes fibroblast proliferation for wound healing
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1–2%Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar. At lower concentrations in a cleanser, it supports barrier repair by boosting ceramide synthesis and provides gentle brightening and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Function: Barrier repair, brightening, anti-acne, anti-inflammatory
- Evidence: Proven to increase ceramide synthesis, improve skin hydration, and reduce hyperpigmentation at 4–5% in leave-on products
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin cells from UV-induced free radical damage. Works synergistically with Vitamin C and provides mild emollient benefits.
- Function: Antioxidant, photoprotective, emollient
- Evidence: The primary fat-soluble antioxidant naturally found in skin; significant UVB photoprotection demonstrated in studies
- Comedogenic Rating: 0–3/5 (concentration-dependent)
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride ~5–10%Proven
A light, non-greasy emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. Provides a smooth, silky skin feel and helps dissolve makeup and impurities without stripping moisture.
- Function: Emollient, solvent for makeup removal
- Evidence: Extremely well-tolerated; light texture suitable for all skin types including oily and sensitive
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5
17 ingredients
Aqua, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butylene Glycol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glycerin, Isononyl Isononanoate, Pentylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Stearyl Alcohol, Methylpropanediol, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Caprylate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in both your AM and PM routines. In the evening, can double as a first cleanse to remove makeup before a second water-based cleanser if needed.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry or Damp Skin
Dispense a coin-sized amount onto your fingertips. Apply to dry or slightly damp face, including the eye area.
Massage Gently
Using gentle circular motions, massage the cleansing milk over your entire face and neck for 30–60 seconds to dissolve makeup, dirt, and impurities.
Remove
Wipe off with a damp cotton pad or rinse with lukewarm water. Pat skin dry with a clean, soft towel. No harsh rubbing needed.
Follow Up
Continue with your toner, serum, and moisturizer. Use morning and evening for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or allergy-prone skin
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient cleanser
- You need a gentle makeup remover that doesn't strip moisture
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You have rosacea, eczema, or easily irritated skin
- You're on a budget but want effective, dermatologically tested skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin and prefer a foaming cleanser
- You need deep-pore cleansing with exfoliating acids
- You want a luxurious, spa-like cleansing experience with scent
- You have active fungal acne and need a 100% FA-safe formula
- You need a heavy-duty waterproof makeup remover (oil-based)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for ultra-sensitive skin. DAAB-approved, fragrance-free, and packed with soothing Panthenol. An ideal cleanser for reactive skin.
Creamy, non-stripping formula with Glycerin and emollients preserves moisture. Skin feels soft and hydrated after cleansing rather than tight or dry.
Gentle daily cleanser that maintains the skin's natural balance. Works perfectly as a reliable, no-fuss first step in any routine.
Effective at removing makeup and dirt without over-drying. May feel slightly rich on oily T-zone areas; follow with a gentle foaming cleanser if needed.
May not feel cleansing enough for very oily skin on its own. Best used as a first-step makeup remover in a double-cleanse routine, followed by a gel or foam cleanser.
Very low comedogenic rating (1/5) and non-irritating formula. Safe for acne-prone skin, but does not contain active acne-fighting ingredients.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated after the very first use. No tightness, stinging, or dryness. Makeup is gently dissolved without harsh rubbing.
95% noticed immediatelyReduced Irritation & Redness
Panthenol and the gentle formula begin to calm reactive skin. Redness and irritation from previous harsh cleansers subside. Skin feels less sensitized overall.
80% noticed within 2 weeksImproved Skin Barrier
With consistent use, the barrier-supportive ingredients (Glycerin, Niacinamide, Panthenol) help restore the moisture barrier. Skin retains hydration better throughout the day.
70% noticed within 4 weeksHealthier, More Resilient Skin
Long-term use results in a calmer, more balanced complexion. Skin tolerates other active products (retinol, acids) better due to a strengthened barrier.
65% noticed long-term improvementRatings by platform
286+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — no stinging, burning, or drying effect
- Only 17 clean, well-researched ingredients
- Leaves skin soft, hydrated, and comfortably clean
- Exceptional value at ~€2.95 for 200ml
- DAAB-approved for allergy-prone skin
- Vegan, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and microplastic-free
- Effectively removes everyday makeup without rubbing
- Contains proven actives: Panthenol, Niacinamide, Glycerin
Criticized
- Twist-cap design is impractical — cap can fly off
- Thick consistency makes dispensing difficult
- Not strong enough for heavy or waterproof liquid makeup
- Only available at dm drugstores — limited international access
- Contains 1 potential fungal acne trigger (Isononyl Isononanoate)
- May feel too rich or insufficiently cleansing for oily skin types
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar concept: fragrance-free, gentle, non-stripping cleanser with Glycerin, Panthenol, and Niacinamide. Contains SLS and parabens, unlike Balea Med. Available worldwide.
Hydrating, non-foaming cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid for extra barrier support. More widely available internationally. Contains Polysorbate 20 (not fungal acne safe).
French pharmacy cleansing milk for ultra-sensitive skin. Similar milky texture and gentle approach. Significantly more expensive but contains thermal spring water. Available at pharmacies worldwide.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
White squeeze bottle with twist-off cap and small dosing opening for controlled dispensing.
Yes — 200 ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits, but the product is available for decanting into smaller travel bottles.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Balea Med Reinigungsmilch Ultra Sensitive contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All 17 ingredients are considered safe for use during this time. It is also fragrance-free and dermatologically tested, making it an excellent gentle cleanser choice for expecting and nursing mothers.
Use with caution. The formula contains one potential fungal acne trigger: Isononyl Isononanoate, which is an ester that could theoretically feed Malassezia yeast. However, since this is a rinse-off product with short skin contact time, the risk is significantly lower compared to a leave-on product. Many users with fungal acne have used it without issues, but if you have active fungal acne and want to be fully safe, consider a confirmed FA-safe alternative.
Absolutely. This is a gentle, non-active cleanser with a mild pH that will not interfere with or neutralize any of your treatment products. In fact, it is an ideal cleanser to pair with strong actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs because its soothing, barrier-protective formula helps counteract the drying or irritating effects these actives can sometimes cause.
This product is best suited for sensitive, dry, normal, and allergy-prone skin types. It was specifically developed for ultra-sensitive skin and is tested and recommended by the German Allergy and Asthma Association. It also works well for combination skin, though those with very oily skin may prefer a gel or foaming cleanser for a more thorough cleanse.
You will feel the immediate benefits (soft, comfortable, clean skin without tightness) from the first use. Reduction in redness and irritation from previous harsh cleansers typically occurs within 1–2 weeks. Meaningful improvement in skin barrier health and hydration retention generally becomes noticeable after 3–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
This product is your first step — the cleanser. Use it morning and evening before toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). In the evening, you can use it as a first cleanse to remove makeup, then optionally follow with a water-based gel or foam cleanser as a second step (double cleansing method).
This product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The vast majority of its ingredients are rated 0 on the comedogenic scale. Stearyl Alcohol (rated 2) and Butylene Glycol (rated 1) are the only ingredients with any comedogenic potential, and they are present at concentrations unlikely to cause issues. As a rinse-off product, the risk of pore-clogging is even lower than leave-on formulas.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, it should be used within 12 months for optimal freshness and efficacy. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With twice-daily use, a 200 ml bottle typically lasts around 2–3 months.
Verdict: Balea Med Reinigungsmilch Ultra Sensitive is an outstanding budget-friendly cleansing milk that punches well above its ~€2.95 price point. With only 17 clean ingredients, it delivers a gentle yet effective cleanse enriched with Panthenol, Niacinamide, and Glycerin — all without fragrances, parabens, or unnecessary additives. It's pregnancy-safe, low-comedogenic, and allergy-tested by the German DAAB. The only downsides are limited availability outside dm stores, one potential fungal acne trigger, and a somewhat impractical packaging design. For sensitive, dry, or reactive skin types looking for a reliable daily cleanser at an unbeatable price, this is one of the best options on the European market.
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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Sorbitan Fatty Acid Ester
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|