Moisturizing Cleansing Cream
Moisturizing Cleansing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A classic American cleansing cream that deep cleans pores while providing extra moisture. Formulated with soybean and linseed oils, this cream cleanser removes dirt, oil, and makeup while delivering the signature Noxzema cooling tingle sensation for refreshed, soft skin.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Reaches deep into pores to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping skin of essential moisture.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
Reaches deep into pores to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping skin of essential moisture.
Added Moisturizers
Enhanced with soybean oil and glycerin to provide extra hydration while cleansing for softer skin.
Cooling Tingle Sensation
The signature Noxzema tingle from eucalyptus and menthol leaves skin feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Natural Plant Oils
Formulated with linseed and soybean oils rich in omega fatty acids to nourish and condition skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. Topical use in cleansers is generally considered low-risk, but consult your healthcare provider before use.
Not FA-safe. Contains soybean oil, linseed oil, and stearic acid which can feed malassezia yeast.
Clinically tested and approved for safety. Non-comedogenic formula designed not to clog pores.
Formula includes methylparaben and propylparaben as preservatives. Also contains DMDM Hydantoin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycine Soja (Soybean) Oil 3-5%Proven
A cost-effective plant oil rich in barrier-repairing linoleic acid (48-59%) and nourishing oleic acid (17-30%). Provides moisturizing and emollient benefits.
- Linoleic Acid: 48-59% - Helps repair skin barrier
- Oleic Acid: 17-30% - Provides deep nourishment
- Vitamin E: Natural antioxidant protection
Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil 3-5%Proven
One of the few natural plant oils rich in omega-3 fatty acid (linolenic acid). Known for anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
- Linolenic Acid: 35-65% - Anti-inflammatory omega-3
- Oleic Acid: 11-35% - Skin nourishing
- Linoleic Acid: 11-24% - Barrier repairing
Glycerin 2-4%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Studies show it may be more effective than hyaluronic acid at hydrating skin.
- Humectant: Draws moisture to skin
- Low Molecular Weight: Penetrates deeper layers
- Antimicrobial: Natural protective properties
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil 0.5-1%Promising
Essential oil with antibacterial properties and the signature cooling sensation. Contains eucalyptol (80-91%) as its main component.
- Eucalyptol: 80-91% - Antibacterial properties
- Cooling Effect: Creates refreshing tingle
- Aromatherapy: Invigorating scent
Menthol & Camphor <1%Functional
Cooling agents that create the signature Noxzema tingle. Camphor also has anti-inflammatory and mild analgesic properties.
- Cooling Sensation: Activates cold receptors in skin
- Refreshing Effect: Invigorating feel after cleansing
- Anti-inflammatory: May help soothe irritation
22 ingredients
Water (Aqua, Eau), Stearic Acid, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Fragrance (Parfum), Gelatin, Phenoxyethanol, Ammonium Hydroxide, Methylparaben, Camphor, Menthol, DMDM Hydantoin, Propylparaben, Calcium Hydroxide, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Bicarbonate, Calcium Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleansing step. Can be used AM and PM. For heavy makeup, consider double cleansing with an oil cleanser first.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Face
On a wet or dry face, apply a generous amount of the cleansing cream with your fingertips.
Massage Gently
Using fingertips or a wet washcloth, gently massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Avoid direct contact with eyes.
Pat Dry & Continue
Gently pat face dry and follow with your regular skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a budget-friendly deep cleanser
- You enjoy the classic cooling tingle sensation
- You have oily or combination skin
- You need effective makeup removal
- You prefer nostalgic, time-tested products
- You want added moisture while cleansing
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You are sensitive to fragrances or essential oils
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin
- You want to avoid parabens or formaldehyde-releasers
- You are pregnant/breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESDeep cleansing formula effectively removes excess oil. The cooling sensation helps control shine and refreshes oily skin.
Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Added moisturizers prevent over-drying dry areas.
Works well for daily cleansing. Provides a thorough clean without disrupting skin balance.
Added moisturizers help, but may still feel slightly drying. Follow with a rich moisturizer.
Contains fragrance, eucalyptus, and menthol which may irritate very sensitive skin. Patch test first.
Non-comedogenic and deep cleansing. However, not suitable for fungal acne specifically.
Results timeline
ONGOINGClean, Refreshed Feeling
Skin feels deeply cleansed with a cooling tingle sensation. Makeup and daily grime are removed.
95% noticedSofter, Smoother Skin
With consistent use, skin texture begins to improve. Pores appear cleaner and less congested.
80% noticedImproved Clarity
Regular use helps maintain clear skin. Oil production may feel more balanced on oily skin types.
70% noticedMaintained Results
Long-term users report consistently clean, soft skin. Many have used Noxzema for decades with good results.
85% satisfiedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Affordable drugstore price point (~$5-7)
- Nostalgic, time-tested formula since 1914
- Signature cooling tingle is refreshing
- Deep cleans without over-drying
- Removes makeup effectively
- Added moisturizers for softer skin
- Large 12oz jar is economical
- Dermatologist tested
Criticized
- Strong eucalyptus scent may be overpowering
- Formula has changed over the years
- Contains parabens and DMDM Hydantoin
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- May be too intense for very sensitive skin
- Jar packaging less hygienic than tubes
- Menthol/camphor concerning for pregnancy
- Some batches have inconsistent texture
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESNearly identical formula to classic Noxzema with camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus. Same cooling tingle at half the price.
Another classic cold cream cleanser. 50% moisturizer formula is richer but lacks the cooling tingle. Better for dry skin.
Modern formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Fragrance-free and fungal acne safe. No cooling sensation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent drying out.
Plastic jar with screw-top lid (45% less plastic than previous packaging)
12oz jar exceeds TSA limit. Purchase 2oz travel size for carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil which some experts recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While topical use in rinse-off cleansers is generally considered lower risk than leave-on products, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use. Do not apply near the breast area if breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains soybean oil, linseed oil, and stearic acid - all of which can feed malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis, consider FA-safe alternatives like La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser.
Yes, as a cleanser, Noxzema can be used with most active ingredients since it rinses off. However, the menthol and eucalyptus may cause additional sensitivity when combined with strong actives. If you experience irritation, consider using a gentler cleanser on nights when you use potent treatments, or buffer by waiting 15-20 minutes after cleansing before applying actives.
This cleanser works best for oily and combination skin types. The deep cleansing action effectively removes excess oil, while the added moisturizers prevent over-drying. Normal skin will also benefit. Those with dry or sensitive skin may find it slightly drying or irritating due to the menthol and eucalyptus - always follow with a good moisturizer.
You'll feel clean, refreshed skin immediately after the first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you should notice softer, smoother skin with less congestion. For acne improvement or significant changes in skin texture, allow 4-8 weeks of regular use. Remember, a cleanser's primary job is to clean - pair it with appropriate treatments for specific skin concerns.
Noxzema is your cleansing step - use it first in your routine, both morning and evening. Apply to wet or dry skin, massage gently, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner (optional), serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). For heavy makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser first, then Noxzema.
Noxzema is labeled as non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested. We rate it 2/5 on the comedogenic scale. While it contains soybean oil which has medium comedogenic potential, as a rinse-off cleanser the risk of clogging pores is minimal. The deep cleansing action actually helps remove pore-clogging debris. However, ensure you rinse thoroughly to prevent residue buildup.
Noxzema has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. Store with the lid tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the texture becomes watery, changes color, or develops an off smell, discard and replace. The 12oz jar typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: Noxzema Moisturizing Cleansing Cream is a classic, affordable cleanser that has stood the test of time since 1914. It excels at deep cleaning oily and combination skin while providing the signature cooling tingle that fans love. The added moisturizers make it gentler than the original formula. However, it's not for everyone - those with fungal acne, fragrance sensitivities, or concerns about parabens should look elsewhere. At under $6 for a 12oz jar, it offers exceptional value for those who tolerate the formula well. A reliable drugstore staple for no-fuss, effective cleansing.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Linum Usitatissimum Seed Oil
Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Glycine Soja Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|





