Oil To Foam Total Cleanser
Oil To Foam Total Cleanser
Product Description
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.
β¨ Texture & Feel
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.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, or other concerning ingredients. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains Polysorbate 20, Sea Buckthorn Oil, and PEG-60 Almond Glycerides which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Unlikely to clog pores. Most ingredients are non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin.
Contains Limonene, Linalool, and Citral from natural essential oils. Patch test if you have sensitive skin.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π 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
πΏ Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Seed Extract Antioxidant
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
π§ Glycerin High Position Proven
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
πΎ Saccharide Isomerate Prebiotic
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
𧴠Gentle Surfactant System Mild 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.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
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.
π How to Use
Slightly Dampen Face
Start with a slightly damp face - not soaking wet. This helps the product spread easily while maintaining its oil-like properties.
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.
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.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with warm water until all product is removed. Skin should feel clean, soft, and smooth - not tight or stripped.
π€ Who Is It For?
β 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
β 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
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Effectively removes excess sebum and sunscreen without over-stripping. Leaves skin clean without rebound oiliness.
Sea Buckthorn Oil and prebiotic provide hydration during cleansing. No tight, dry feeling after use.
Balances well across different face zones, cleansing oily areas while not drying out drier areas.
Gentle surfactants are non-irritating, but essential oils may cause sensitivity. Patch test recommended.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Good for regular acne, but NOT suitable for fungal acne sufferers.
π Results Timeline
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 skinImproved Texture
With consistent use, skin texture begins to improve. Pores appear cleaner and skin feels more balanced.
85% noticed improvementSmoother, Softer Skin
Clinical study showed 100% of users experienced smoother, softer skin after 4 weeks of daily use.
100% noticed smoother skin*β Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β 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
β 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
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar oil-to-foam concept with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Less luxurious texture but excellent value. Fragrance-free option for sensitive skin.
Gentle foaming oil cleanser with niacinamide. Formulated for very dry and sensitive skin. No essential oils - better for fragrance-sensitive users.
K-beauty cleansing oil that emulsifies into milky foam. Contains soothing Centella. More affordable but different texture profile.
French pharmacy oil-to-foam cleanser. Very gentle, suitable for body and face. More basic formula but excellent for sensitive skin.
π Comparison with Competitors
Dermalogica Oil To Foam Total Cleanser
$48.00CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
$16.99Dermalogica Precleanse
$52.00La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser
$17.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Recyclable pump bottle made with 50% recycled plastic. FSC-certified carton.
250ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits. Transfer to smaller container for air travel.
β Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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):
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides
Emulsifying
|
|