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Oil To Foam Total Cleanser

Oil To Foam Total Cleanser

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A transformative oil-to-foam cleanser that starts as a golden gel-oil infused with Sea Buckthorn Oil, then transforms into a luxurious cloud-like foam when mixed with water. This dual-action formula removes makeup, sunscreen, and debris in one step while leaving skin feeling ultra-clean, soft, and smooth.

Vegan Cruelty-Free No Artificial Fragrance No Artificial Colors Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Alcohol-Free Gluten-Free
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
250ml / 8.4 fl oz
Price
$48.00
Formula
Oil-to-Foam
Skin Type
All Types
Key Active
Sea Buckthorn Oil
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

2-in-1 Formula

Works as both makeup remover and cleanser in one step, eliminating the need for double cleansing.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Golden Gel-Oil
Scent
Natural Citrus-Lavender
Absorption
Quick Rinse
Finish
Clean & Soft

2-in-1 Formula

Works as both makeup remover and cleanser in one step, eliminating the need for double cleansing.

Sea Buckthorn Oil

Rich in antioxidant Vitamin E and omega fatty acids to nourish and protect the skin while cleansing.

Plant-Derived Prebiotic

Saccharide Isomerate attracts moisture and binds to skin for long-lasting hydration.

Transforming Texture

Starts as a golden gel-oil, then transforms into a rich cloud-like foam when water is added.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

No retinoids, salicylic acid, or other concerning ingredients. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Polysorbate 20, Sea Buckthorn Oil, and PEG-60 Almond Glycerides which may feed Malassezia yeast.

Low Comedogenic Rating (1/5)

Unlikely to clog pores. Most ingredients are non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin.

Contains Essential Oils

Contains Limonene, Linalool, and Citral from natural essential oils. Patch test if you have sensitive skin.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Sea Buckthorn Oil (Hippophae Rhamnoides)Star Ingredient

A nutrient-rich oil containing rare Omega-7 palmitoleic acid, Vitamin E, beta-carotene, and plant sterols. Provides antioxidant protection and skin-nourishing benefits.

  • Omega-7: Rare fatty acid that supports skin barrier and wound healing
  • Vitamin E: Powerful antioxidant that protects against environmental damage
  • Beta-Carotene: Gives the golden color and provides additional antioxidant benefits
Rich in vitamins and antioxidants that moisturize and protect skin during cleansing.

Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Seed ExtractAntioxidant

Green tea extract provides antioxidant protection against environmental pollutants and free radicals while supporting a stronger-looking skin barrier.

  • Polyphenols: Combat oxidative stress and environmental damage
  • Catechins: Help protect skin from UV-induced damage

Glycerin High PositionProven

A skin-identical humectant naturally found in the skin. Draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain the skin's protective barrier function.

  • Humectant: Attracts and binds water to the skin
  • Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy state

Saccharide IsomeratePrebiotic

A 100% natural, plant-derived moisturizer that mimics the natural carbohydrate fraction found in the upper skin layer. Binds to skin longer than typical moisturizers.

  • Long-lasting: Binds to skin stronger and longer than other moisturizing ingredients
  • Prebiotic: Supports the skin's microbiome balance

Gentle Surfactant SystemMild Cleansing

Combines Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine and Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate - both coconut-derived, biodegradable surfactants known for being extremely gentle on skin.

  • Amphoteric: Very mild and non-irritating cleansing action
  • Foam-boosting: Creates a luxurious lather without stripping skin

32 ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Hydroxyacetophenone, Camellia Oleifera Seed Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil, Tocopherol, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, 1,2-Hexanediol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Saccharide Isomerate, Polysorbate 20, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Citrate, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Limonene, Linalool, Citral.

FREE FROM: Artificial Fragrances, Artificial Colors, Parabens, SD Alcohol, Mineral Oil, Lanolin, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Phthalates, Formaldehyde
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Oil To Foam Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Eye Cream
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Use as your primary evening cleanser or anytime you need to remove makeup, sunscreen, or daily buildup. Can replace both your oil cleanser and water-based cleanser for a simplified routine.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Slightly Dampen Face

Start with a slightly damp face - not soaking wet. This helps the product spread easily while maintaining its oil-like properties.

2

Massage Gel-Oil Over Face & Eyes

Apply the golden gel-oil and massage gently over entire face and eye area. The oil will dissolve makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and surface dirt.

3

Add Water to Transform

Wet your hands and continue massaging. Watch as the gel-oil transforms into a rich, cloud-like foam that lifts away impurities.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse with warm water until all product is removed. Skin should feel clean, soft, and smooth - not tight or stripped.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You wear makeup or heavy sunscreen daily
  • You want to simplify your double cleansing routine
  • You prefer gentle, non-stripping cleansers
  • Your skin tends to feel dry after cleansing
  • You enjoy luxurious, transforming textures
  • You appreciate natural citrus-lavender scents

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
  • You're sensitive to essential oils or fragrance
  • You prefer very high-foaming cleansers
  • You want a fragrance-free formula
  • You're on a tight budget
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Effectively removes excess sebum and sunscreen without over-stripping. Leaves skin clean without rebound oiliness.

Dry Skin
Excellent

Sea Buckthorn Oil and prebiotic provide hydration during cleansing. No tight, dry feeling after use.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across different face zones, cleansing oily areas while not drying out drier areas.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Gentle surfactants are non-irritating, but essential oils may cause sensitivity. Patch test recommended.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Good for regular acne, but NOT suitable for fungal acne sufferers.

08

Results timeline

4 WEEKS
Immediately

Clean, Soft Skin

Instantly removes makeup, sunscreen, and daily debris. Skin feels soft, smooth, and refreshed without any tight or dry sensation.

100% noticed cleaner skin
1 Week

Improved Texture

With consistent use, skin texture begins to improve. Pores appear cleaner and skin feels more balanced.

85% noticed improvement
4 Weeks

Smoother, Softer Skin

Clinical study showed 100% of users experienced smoother, softer skin after 4 weeks of daily use.

100% noticed smoother skin*
09

Ratings by platform

455+ REVIEWS
Dermalogica.com
4.8
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not foamy enough for those who prefer high-lathering cleansers
Amazon
4.6
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Price is high compared to drugstore alternatives
Ulta Beauty
4.7
Rating
80+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some find the citrus-lavender scent too strong
LovelySkin
4.5
Rating
25+
Reviews
Main complaint: Doesn't rinse quite as cleanly as some prefer
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Excellent at removing heavy makeup and sunscreen
  • Doesn't strip or dry out skin
  • Luxurious oil-to-foam transformation
  • Pleasant natural citrus-lavender scent
  • Works as both makeup remover and cleanser
  • Skin feels soft and hydrated after use
  • Safe for use around eyes
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Criticized

  • Premium price point (~$48 for 250ml)
  • Not fungal acne safe
  • Contains essential oils (potential sensitizers)
  • Not high-foaming enough for some users
  • May not rinse completely clean for some
  • Natural scent may be too strong for some
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
$16.99
Budget Pick

Similar oil-to-foam concept with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Less luxurious texture but excellent value. Fragrance-free option for sensitive skin.

78% Match
Lipikar AP+ Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
$19.99
Budget Pick

Gentle foaming oil cleanser with niacinamide. Formulated for very dry and sensitive skin. No essential oils - better for fragrance-sensitive users.

70% Match
Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
$14.00
Budget Pick

K-beauty cleansing oil that emulsifies into milky foam. Contains soothing Centella. More affordable but different texture profile.

68% Match
Bioderma Atoderm Huile de Douche
$17.90
Budget Pick

French pharmacy oil-to-foam cleanser. Very gentle, suitable for body and face. More basic formula but excellent for sensitive skin.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
Key Ingredient Ceramides + Hyaluronic Acid
Size 236ml
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Fungal Acne Safe Check Formula
Vegan Not Certified
Precleanse Cleansing Oil
Key Ingredient Olive + Apricot Oil
Size 150ml
Fragrance Natural Essential Oils
Fungal Acne Safe No
Vegan Yes
Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Key Ingredient Ceramides + Niacinamide
Size 400ml
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Fungal Acne Safe Check Formula
Vegan Not Certified
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.

Packaging

Recyclable pump bottle made with 50% recycled plastic. FSC-certified carton.

Travel Friendly

250ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits. Transfer to smaller container for air travel.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes, this cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. However, if you have concerns about the essential oils in the formula, consult with your healthcare provider.

No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, Sea Buckthorn Oil (Hippophae Rhamnoides), and PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, which contain fatty acids that can feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, look for a cleanser specifically formulated without these ingredients.

Yes, this cleanser is compatible with all active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. As a rinse-off cleanser, it won't interfere with your treatment products. The gentle formula actually makes it a good choice for those using potentially irritating actives, as it won't add additional stress to the skin.

This cleanser is formulated for all skin types and works well for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin. It's particularly excellent for those who wear makeup or heavy sunscreen daily. The only exception is those with fungal acne or extreme sensitivity to essential oils, who should choose alternatives.

You'll notice immediately cleaner, softer skin after your first use. With consistent daily use, Dermalogica's clinical study showed that 100% of participants experienced smoother, softer skin after 4 weeks. Overall skin clarity and texture continue to improve with regular use.

Use this as your first (and potentially only) cleansing step. Apply to slightly damp skin to remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily buildup. Because it works as both a makeup remover and cleanser, you can skip the double cleanse step. Follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and SPF (morning).

No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores. The formula is designed to thoroughly cleanse without leaving pore-clogging residue. It's suitable for acne-prone skin (except fungal acne) and helps remove excess sebum that can contribute to breakouts.

The cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for best results. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 250ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use, depending on how much product you use per wash.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Dermalogica Oil To Foam Total Cleanser is a premium, professional-grade cleanser that truly delivers on its promise of thorough yet gentle cleansing. The innovative oil-to-foam transformation is satisfying to use, and the Sea Buckthorn Oil leaves skin feeling nourished rather than stripped. It excels at removing heavy makeup and sunscreen in one step, making it ideal for those who want to simplify their cleansing routine. The main drawbacks are its premium price point and the fact that it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to certain ingredients. For everyone else, this is an excellent choice that combines effective cleansing with skin-caring benefits.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Tocopherol Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Tocopherol Citric Acid
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
45% 16% 38%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 31 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
1 B
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
0 Unknown
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides
Emulsifying
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS