Normacne Antibacterial Cleansing Gel
Normacne Antibacterial Cleansing Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed antibacterial cleansing gel formulated with Zinc PCA, Green Tea Extract, and Glycerin to deeply cleanse oily and acne-prone skin. Removes excess sebum, makeup, and impurities without over-drying or causing tightness. Part of the Dermedic Normacne dermocosmetics line from Poland.
Antibacterial Action
Zinc PCA and Green Tea work together to reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin, helping to prevent new breakouts from forming.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Zinc PCA and Green Tea work together to reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin, helping to prevent new breakouts from forming.
Sebum Control
Regulates sebaceous gland activity and controls excess oil production, keeping skin matte and balanced throughout the day.
Gentle Deep Cleanse
Thoroughly removes impurities, makeup, and excess oil without stripping the skin or causing dryness or tightness after washing.
Antiseptic Protection
Contains antiseptic ingredients that help prevent skin infections and protect against bacterial proliferation in acne-prone areas.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains DMDM Hydantoin (formaldehyde releaser) and Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate. While these are in low concentrations typical for rinse-off products, consult your doctor during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Trioleate, which may feed Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a confirmed FA-safe alternative.
Rated 1/5 comedogenic. This gel cleanser is unlikely to clog pores. No heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients in the formula.
Does not contain drying alcohols (ethanol, denatured alcohol, isopropyl alcohol). Safe for sensitive and dehydrated acne-prone skin.
Dermatologically tested and declared hypoallergenic by the manufacturer. However, patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.
Listed as an ingredient. The scent is mild and subtle. Those with extreme fragrance sensitivity should be aware, though most users report no irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSZinc PCA ~1-2%Proven
A zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA) that serves as the star antibacterial and sebum-regulating active in this cleanser. PCA is a natural component of skin's moisturizing factor.
- Sebum Control: Clinical studies show Zinc PCA reduces sebum production by up to 45% after regular use.
- Antibacterial: Effective against Cutibacterium acnes, the primary bacteria implicated in inflammatory acne.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps calm redness and reduce the size and severity of acne lesions.
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract ~0.5-1%Proven
A potent antioxidant extract rich in polyphenols (especially EGCG) that provides antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and sebum-regulating benefits for acne-prone skin.
- Antioxidant: EGCG neutralizes free radicals and protects skin from environmental damage and premature aging.
- Anti-Acne: Studies show green tea extract can reduce sebum production and inhibit growth of acne-causing bacteria.
- Soothing: Anti-inflammatory polyphenols help reduce redness and calm irritated, breakout-prone skin.
Glycerin ~2-5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin, preventing the tight and dry feeling often associated with acne cleansers.
- Hydration: One of the most effective humectants, proven to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss.
- Skin Barrier: Supports the natural moisture barrier, helping the skin maintain healthy pH and resilience.
Cocamidopropyl BetaineSupporting
A mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. It boosts foaming, stabilizes lather, and reduces the irritation potential of other cleansing agents in the formula.
- Gentle Cleansing: Significantly milder than SLS, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Biodegradable: Highly biodegradable surfactant that is considered environmentally friendly.
Citric AcidSupporting
Acts as a pH adjuster to maintain the cleanser at an optimal skin-friendly pH level. At low concentrations, also provides mild AHA exfoliation benefits.
- pH Balance: Ensures the formula stays within the ideal range (~5.5) for healthy skin function.
- Antioxidant: Provides mild antioxidant protection and helps brighten the complexion over time.
19 ingredients
Aqua, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sodium Chloride, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Trioleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Zinc PCA, Glycerin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, DMDM Hydantoin, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Parfum, Propylene Glycol, Benzoic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the very first step of your AM and PM routine. For double cleansing in the evening, follow an oil cleanser with this gel. Can also be used on the back and chest for body acne.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and irritate acne-prone skin.
Apply the Gel
Dispense a small amount (pea-to-dime size) onto wet fingertips. Avoid the eye area.
Massage Gently
Work the gel into a lather using circular motions for about 30-60 seconds, focusing on oily zones (T-zone, chin).
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with toner and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with acne breakouts
- You want a cleanser that controls excess sebum without over-drying
- You prefer pharmacy-grade dermocosmetic formulas
- You need a daily antibacterial cleanser that is gentle enough for morning and evening use
- You experience blackheads, whiteheads, or inflammatory acne on face or back
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs a cream or oil-based cleanser
- You are specifically looking for a fungal acne (malassezia) safe cleanser
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want to avoid formaldehyde releasers
- You are highly sensitive to any form of fragrance (contains Parfum)
- You want an active exfoliating cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESZinc PCA actively regulates sebum. Leaves skin feeling clean and matte without over-stripping. Ideal daily cleanser for oily types.
Effectively cleanses the oily T-zone without drying out normal or slightly dry cheek areas. Glycerin helps maintain moisture balance.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Antibacterial actives target C. acnes bacteria. Non-comedogenic formula rated 1/5.
Hypoallergenic and alcohol-free formulation. Contains Parfum and DMDM Hydantoin, so patch test first if you have very reactive skin.
May feel slightly drying on already dry skin despite glycerin content. Follow with a rich moisturizer. Better suited for oilier types.
Results timeline
MONTHS 2-3+Cleaner, Less Oily Skin
Skin feels noticeably cleaner and less greasy after each wash. The gel effectively removes excess sebum without leaving tightness. Existing breakouts may begin to calm.
80% noticed cleaner feelingReduced Breakouts & Redness
Antibacterial action starts showing visible results. New breakouts become less frequent and existing inflammation begins to reduce. Pores appear cleaner and less congested.
65% noticed fewer breakoutsClearer, More Balanced Complexion
Consistent use shows significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Sebum production is more regulated, skin texture is smoother, and inflammatory acne is visibly reduced.
70% noticed improved clarityLong-Term Acne Prevention
Ongoing daily use helps maintain clear skin and prevents new acne from forming. Skin barrier stays healthy and balanced. Best results when used as part of a complete Normacne routine.
75% reported sustained improvementRatings by platform
730+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively cleanses without over-drying or causing tightness
- Noticeably reduces breakouts and oily shine within weeks
- Affordable pharmacy-grade formula with proven active ingredients
- Alcohol-free and non-comedogenic, gentle enough for daily use
- Available in large 500ml value size with pump dispenser
- Can be used on face, back, and chest for body acne
- Lasts a long time due to small amount needed per wash
Criticized
- Contains DMDM Hydantoin (formaldehyde releaser) — controversial preservative
- Contains Parfum, not truly fragrance-free despite subtle scent
- PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Trioleate may not be fungal acne safe
- Some users report mild tightness after rinsing, especially in dry climates
- Can take a while to rinse off completely
- No active exfoliants (no salicylic acid, no benzoyl peroxide)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Fragrance-free and fungal acne safe. Lacks Zinc PCA antibacterial action but gentler overall formula. More widely available.
Contains 2% salicylic acid for active exfoliation. More aggressive acne-fighting approach but may be more drying. No Zinc PCA. Widely available at drugstores.
Ultra-gentle balm-to-oil cleanser. No antibacterial actives, but excellent for non-stripping cleanse. Better suited as a first step in double cleansing. Different texture and approach.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses to prevent contamination.
200ml squeeze tube or 500ml pump dispenser bottle. The pump version is more hygienic and convenient for daily use.
Yes, 200ml size is TSA/airport compliant for checked luggage. For carry-on, decant into a container under 100ml.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. The formula contains DMDM Hydantoin, a formaldehyde-releasing preservative, and Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate. While these are present in low concentrations typical for rinse-off products (meaning minimal skin absorption), many dermatologists recommend avoiding formaldehyde releasers during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. Safer alternatives for pregnancy include CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Cleanser.
Not fully confirmed as fungal acne safe. The formula contains PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Trioleate, which is derived from oleic acid and may potentially feed Malassezia yeast. While some ingredient databases list it as free from fungal acne triggers, the presence of this PEG ester is a concern for those strictly avoiding all FA triggers. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider a verified FA-safe cleanser like CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser instead.
Yes. Since this is a rinse-off cleanser, it is compatible with most active ingredients you apply afterward. The gel does not contain any strong actives that would conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA treatments. Simply cleanse, rinse thoroughly, then apply your active serums and treatments as directed. If your skin feels sensitized from retinol or acid use, this gentle cleanser is a suitable choice as it does not add further exfoliation.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It was specifically developed as a dermocosmetic for skin with excess sebum production and a tendency toward breakouts. The Zinc PCA actively regulates oil while the antibacterial agents target acne bacteria. It also works for sensitive-but-oily skin due to its hypoallergenic, alcohol-free formulation. Dry skin types may find it slightly stripping and should consider a creamier cleanser.
Most users notice an immediate difference in how clean and matte their skin feels after the very first wash. Visible reduction in breakouts and oiliness typically becomes apparent within 2-3 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Significant improvement in overall skin clarity, fewer new blemishes, and smoother texture is usually reported after 4-6 weeks. For best results, use as part of a complete skincare routine with the Normacne toner and moisturizer.
This cleansing gel is the very first step of your skincare routine, both morning and evening. In the PM, if you wear makeup or sunscreen, use an oil-based cleanser first (double cleansing method) followed by this gel as your second cleanser. After rinsing, proceed with toner, serum, treatments (retinol, acids), moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). The gel can also be used on the back and chest for body acne.
No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The manufacturer labels it as non-comedogenic and it has been dermatologically tested. The formula is free from oils, heavy emollients, and known pore-clogging ingredients. As a rinse-off product, even potentially comedogenic trace ingredients have minimal contact time with the skin. It is specifically designed to help keep pores clean and clear.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The 200ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, while the 500ml pump bottle can last 5-6+ months. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap/pump closed between uses. If the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably, discontinue use even if within the 12-month period.
Verdict: Dermedic Normacne Antibacterial Cleansing Gel is a solid pharmacy-grade cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin at an affordable price point. The combination of Zinc PCA and Green Tea delivers genuine antibacterial and sebum-controlling benefits without the harshness of alcohol or strong acids. Its gentle-yet-effective approach makes it suitable for daily use, and the 500ml pump option offers excellent value. The main drawbacks are the inclusion of DMDM Hydantoin (a formaldehyde releaser that some consumers prefer to avoid), the presence of Parfum, and a questionable fungal acne safety profile. If these are not concerns for you, this is an excellent everyday acne cleanser from a reputable European dermocosmetics brand. For those who are pregnant, have fungal acne, or want a fully clean-ingredient cleanser, CeraVe Foaming Cleanser is a strong alternative.
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 3 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 |
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside
Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|