Mild Cleansing Lotion
Mild Cleansing Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A luxurious, non-foaming cream cleanser formulated by Dr. Des Fernandes to gently lift impurities while preserving your skin's natural moisture barrier. Enriched with Jojoba Oil and olive-derived emollients, it leaves skin feeling soft, refreshed, and never stripped.
Preserves Moisture Barrier
Olive-derived emulsifiers and jojoba oil help maintain the skin's natural waterproofing barrier while cleansing away impurities.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPreserves Moisture Barrier
Olive-derived emulsifiers and jojoba oil help maintain the skin's natural waterproofing barrier while cleansing away impurities.
Gentle Vegetable-Derived Surfactant
Lauryl betaine, a mild plant-based surfactant, lifts dirt and makeup without irritation or stripping the skin's natural oils.
Non-Foaming Formula
No harsh foaming agents or detergents. The cream texture spreads luxuriously and rinses clean without leaving residue.
pH-Balanced Cleansing
Maintains the skin's natural acid mantle, supporting a healthy microbiome and preventing post-cleanse tightness or dryness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Parfum (Fragrance) and Benzyl Salicylate (a fragrance component). No retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens present. Consult your doctor as a precaution due to the fragrance ingredients.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 60, Cetearyl Olivate, and Sorbitan Olivate — esters and polysorbates that can feed malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Jojoba oil closely mimics skin's own sebum and is unlikely to clog pores. As a rinse-off product, residual pore-clogging risk is minimal.
Free from SLS/SLES, parabens, drying alcohols, and synthetic preservatives. Uses mild, plant-derived cleansing agents safe for daily use.
Soap-free, non-foaming formula designed specifically for sensitive, reactive, and post-procedure skin. Maintains the natural acid balance.
Safe to use alongside retinoids, vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs. Its gentle formula won't compromise or interfere with your active treatments.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSJojoba Seed OilProven
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil is a liquid wax ester that closely mimics the composition of human sebum. It acts as a gentle emollient that conditions the skin during cleansing without disrupting the moisture barrier.
- Composition: Structurally similar to skin's natural sebum (wax esters), allowing seamless integration
- Function: Provides emollient conditioning and helps dissolve oil-based impurities and makeup
- Comedogenic rating: Rated 2/5 — generally considered non-comedogenic for most skin types
SorbitolProven
A sugar alcohol humectant that draws moisture to the skin surface. In this cleanser, sorbitol helps prevent the tight, dry feeling often associated with face washing by maintaining hydration during the cleansing process.
- Type: Humectant — attracts and binds water molecules to the skin
- Benefit: Prevents moisture loss during cleansing, leaving skin feeling soft and comfortable
- Safety: Non-irritating, well-tolerated by all skin types including sensitive and eczema-prone
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A potent lipid-soluble antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. In this cleanser, it provides antioxidant protection and stabilizes the formula.
- Role: Antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and supports skin barrier repair
- Synergy: Works alongside the olive-derived emollients to nourish and condition during cleansing
- Research: Widely studied for photoprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits in skincare
Olive Oil PEG-7 EstersPromising
A mild, olive-derived emollient and emulsifier that helps dissolve makeup and impurities while conditioning the skin. It contributes to the creamy, luxurious texture of the lotion.
- Source: Derived from olive oil through a gentle esterification process
- Function: Acts as both a cleansing agent and skin conditioner
- Skin feel: Leaves a soft, non-greasy after-feel on the skin
Lauryl BetaineProven
A mild, vegetable-derived surfactant responsible for the cleanser's ability to lift impurities from the skin. Unlike harsh sulfates, lauryl betaine cleanses gently without disrupting the skin's protective barrier.
- Origin: Plant-derived amphoteric surfactant with excellent skin compatibility
- Gentleness: Significantly milder than SLS/SLES — ideal for sensitive and compromised skin
- Effect: Provides effective cleansing action while maintaining the skin's natural pH
18 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sorbitol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Pentylene Glycol, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Sodium Hydroxide, Lauryl Betaine, Polysorbate 60, Disodium EDTA, Parfum (Fragrance), Benzyl Salicylate, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Sodium Chloride.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanse after Environ Pre-Cleansing Oil, both AM and PM. Follow with your Environ toner and vitamin A moisturizer for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEPre-Cleanse (Optional)
If wearing makeup or sunscreen, first use an oil-based pre-cleanser to dissolve surface buildup and prepare the skin.
Apply to Damp Skin
Dispense 1–2 pumps of Mild Cleansing Lotion onto damp skin. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Massage Gently
Using your fingertips, massage in small circular motions for approximately 20 seconds. Do not scrub vigorously — let the lotion do the work.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Remove thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with toner and your recommended Environ vitamin A moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, normal, or sensitive skin that feels tight after washing
- You want a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that won't strip your skin
- You use Environ's vitamin A step-up system and need a compatible cleanser
- You prefer cream-textured, soap-free cleansers with a luxurious feel
- Your skin is post-procedure, reactive, or recovering from overuse of actives
- You're looking for a preservative-free, minimal-irritant cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula contains triggers like Polysorbate 60
- You prefer a foaming or gel cleanser with a deep-clean feeling
- You need a fragrance-free product — this contains Parfum and Benzyl Salicylate
- You have very oily skin and want stronger oil control from your cleanser
- You're on a tight budget — at ~$50 for 200ml, there are more affordable gentle cleansers available
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cleanser was formulated with dry skin in mind. Jojoba oil and olive-derived emollients cleanse without stripping, leaving skin soft and hydrated.
Soap-free, non-foaming, pH-balanced formula with no harsh surfactants. Ideal for reactive or post-procedure skin. Note: contains fragrance.
A perfectly balanced daily cleanser that maintains healthy skin without over-cleansing or under-cleaning. Luxurious everyday experience.
Effectively cleanses without over-drying cheeks. May not feel deep-cleansing enough for very oily T-zone areas.
Rich cream texture may feel too heavy for oily skin. Consider Environ's Low Foam Cleansing Gel instead for better oil control.
Low comedogenic risk (1/5), but not fungal acne safe. Suitable for mild acne-prone skin that is also dry or sensitive.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft, and velvety immediately after first use. No tightness, no dryness — a noticeable difference from harsh cleansers.
95% noticed softer skin after first useReduced Tightness & Irritation
Skin begins to feel less reactive and irritated. The moisture barrier starts to recover, especially if switching from a foaming or stripping cleanser.
80% reported less post-cleanse tightnessImproved Hydration & Texture
Skin appears more supple, hydrated, and radiant. The gentle formula allows other active products in your routine to work more effectively.
70% noticed improved skin textureHealthier, More Resilient Skin
Long-term use supports a stronger moisture barrier. Skin feels calmer, more balanced, and better able to tolerate active treatments like vitamin A.
85% would not switch to another cleanserRatings by platform
87+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — does not strip, dry out, or irritate even the most sensitive skin
- Leaves a luxurious, velvety soft after-feel that users consistently praise
- Preservative-free formula with mild, plant-derived cleansing agents
- pH-balanced and soap-free — maintains the skin's natural acid mantle
- Works beautifully as a second cleanse in double-cleansing routines
- Economical — only 1–2 pumps needed per use, so the 200ml bottle lasts months
- Compatible with Environ's vitamin A step-up system and other active treatments
Criticized
- Premium price (~$50 for 200ml) compared to drugstore gentle cleansers
- Contains fragrance (Parfum, Benzyl Salicylate) — not truly fragrance-free
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to Polysorbate 60 and esters
- May feel too rich or insufficient for very oily skin types
- Requires consultation for new Environ customers at many authorized stockists
- Limited availability — sold mainly through authorized Environ professionals
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Non-foaming cream cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Fragrance-free and widely available. Lacks Environ's jojoba-olive emollient system but offers excellent barrier support at a fraction of the price. 473ml size.
Gentle cream-to-gel cleanser with niacinamide, ceramide-3, and prebiotic thermal spring water. Fragrance-free and pH-balanced. Very similar concept of gentle, non-stripping cleansing but with added barrier-repair ingredients. 400ml size.
French pharmacy cleansing milk with Avène Thermal Spring Water. Similar creamy, non-foaming concept aimed at sensitive and dry skin. Slightly more basic formula without jojoba oil or vitamin E but excellent for extreme sensitivity. 200ml size.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the pump sealed when not in use. No refrigeration needed.
200ml pump dispenser bottle. Hygienic pump prevents contamination and allows precise dosing of product.
No — 200ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller travel container for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The Mild Cleansing Lotion does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the primary ingredients of concern during pregnancy. However, it does contain Parfum (Fragrance) and Benzyl Salicylate (a fragrance allergen, not to be confused with salicylic acid). While these are generally considered low-risk in a rinse-off product, we recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you wish to be completely cautious during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this cleanser is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 60 (a polysorbate known to feed malassezia yeast), Cetearyl Olivate, and Sorbitan Olivate (olive-derived esters). If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a fungal acne-safe cleanser such as Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or a simple micellar water formulated without these triggers.
Yes, absolutely. This cleanser is specifically designed to be compatible with active treatments including Environ's own vitamin A step-up system. Its gentle, pH-balanced formula will not compromise or interfere with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs applied afterward. In fact, by gently removing impurities without stripping the skin, it helps create an optimal canvas for active ingredients to penetrate more effectively.
This cleanser is best suited for normal, dry, sensitive, and mature skin types. It excels at cleaning without stripping and leaves a soft, velvety feel. Those with very oily skin may find the rich cream texture insufficient and might prefer Environ's Low Foam Cleansing Gel instead. It is recommended for any age group and for both males and females, particularly those with sun-damaged or post-procedure skin.
You will feel the difference from day one — skin feels softer, cleaner, and more comfortable immediately after use. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, you should notice reduced post-cleanse tightness and irritation. After 3–4 weeks, expect improved overall hydration and skin texture. Long-term use (2+ months) supports a healthier, more resilient moisture barrier, allowing your other products to work more effectively.
Use it as your second cleanse (Step 2) in both your morning and evening routines. After an optional pre-cleanse with an oil-based cleanser to remove sunscreen and heavy makeup, apply the Mild Cleansing Lotion to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse. Follow immediately with your Environ toner, then serum/booster, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
The Mild Cleansing Lotion has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 — very low risk of clogging pores. Jojoba oil (the primary emollient) is rated 2/5 on its own but closely mimics the skin's natural sebum, making it generally well-tolerated. As a rinse-off product that stays on the skin for only seconds, the actual pore-clogging risk is minimal. Most users, including those with mild acne, report no breakout issues.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 200ml pump bottle typically lasts 3–4 months with twice-daily use (1–2 pumps per session). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene and prevents contamination. Despite being preservative-free, the formula is stable due to its carefully selected ingredients and airless-style pump packaging.
Verdict: The Environ Mild Cleansing Lotion is a premium, beautifully formulated cream cleanser that delivers exactly what it promises — gentle, effective cleansing that never strips or compromises the skin's moisture barrier. It shines brightest for those with dry, sensitive, or post-procedure skin who are invested in the Environ vitamin A system. The preservative-free, soap-free formula is impressive, and the luxurious velvety finish is genuinely addictive. However, the premium price point (roughly 5–7x the cost per ml of drugstore alternatives like CeraVe), the presence of fragrance, and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe prevent it from earning a perfect score. If gentle, nourishing cleansing is your priority and budget is not a concern, this is one of the best cream cleansers 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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Polydecene
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|