Perfect Whip Low pH Calming Cica
Perfect Whip Low pH Calming Cica
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, low pH foaming cleanser infused with Centella Asiatica (Cica) and Soybean Extract to soothe, calm, and cleanse sensitive skin without stripping moisture. Features Senka's signature airy whip micro-foam technology with Double Hyaluronic Acid for a soft, hydrated finish.
Calming Cica (Centella Asiatica)
Powerful skin-soothing ingredient that calms and comforts stressed, irritated, and sensitive skin while supporting barrier repair.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCalming Cica (Centella Asiatica)
Powerful skin-soothing ingredient that calms and comforts stressed, irritated, and sensitive skin while supporting barrier repair.
Double Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Hyaluronate + Acetylated Hyaluronic Acid work together to deeply hydrate and maintain skin's natural moisture levels.
Soy Extract Rich in Amino Acids
Japanese Soybean Extract provides antioxidant protection, moisturizing benefits, and helps strengthen the skin's natural barrier.
White Cocoon Silk Essence (Sericin)
Senka's signature ingredient derived from silk cocoons to nourish skin and provide a silky-smooth, supple texture after cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.
Unlike the original Perfect Whip, this Cica version contains no fatty acids (stearic, myristic, lauric acid) that feed Malassezia yeast. Uses gentle amino acid-based surfactants.
Non-comedogenic formula tested not to clog pores. Contains no heavy oils or pore-blocking ingredients.
Light fragrance included (Parfum). Patch test recommended for extremely fragrance-sensitive individuals.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica Leaf/Stem ExtractProven
Also known as Cica, Tiger Grass, or Gotu Kola. A legendary soothing ingredient used in traditional medicine for centuries. Contains active compounds madecassoside, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid that calm inflammation and support skin healing.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show Centella promotes collagen synthesis and accelerates wound healing
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness, irritation, and sensitivity in compromised skin
- Barrier Support: Helps strengthen and repair the skin's protective barrier
Double Hyaluronic AcidProven
Combines two forms of hyaluronic acid for superior hydration: Sodium Hyaluronate and Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (Super HA). Together they provide multi-level moisture that doesn't rinse away completely.
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water for deep hydration
- Acetylated HA: Modified form that better adheres to skin for longer-lasting moisture
- Result: Skin feels soft and hydrated post-cleanse, not tight or stripped
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed ExtractProven
Rich in amino acids, antioxidant phenolic acids, and isoflavones (genistein, daidzein). Provides multiple skin benefits including moisturizing, antioxidant protection, and barrier strengthening.
- Antioxidant: Contains flavonoids that protect against free radical damage
- Skin Brightening: May help inhibit melanin transfer for more even skin tone
- Anti-inflammatory: Isoflavones help calm irritated, stressed skin
Sericin (Silk Cocoon Essence) Senka SignaturePromising
Senka's signature White Cocoon Essence derived from natural silk. A protein that creates a protective film on skin while providing moisturizing and softening benefits.
- Texture: Creates the silky-smooth, soft finish Senka is famous for
- Moisturizing: Helps skin retain moisture for longer-lasting hydration
23 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Bentonite, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Potassium Cocoyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sericin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Metabisulfite, Bis-Ethoxydiglycol Cyclohexane 1,4-Dicarboxylate, Centella Asiatica Leaf/Stem Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Parfum), Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser (after oil cleanser for double cleansing) or as a standalone morning cleanser. The low pH preserves your skin's acid mantle for optimal barrier function.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Hands & Face
Splash face with lukewarm water. Wet hands thoroughly before dispensing product.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze about 2cm onto palm. Add a small amount of water and work into a rich, airy foam using back-and-forth hand motions. A foaming net creates even fluffier bubbles.
Massage Gently
Apply the whipped foam to face using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Let the micro-bubbles lift away impurities without harsh rubbing.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water (10-15 splashes). Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with toner immediately.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You want a low pH cleanser that won't disrupt your skin barrier
- You experience redness, tightness, or discomfort after cleansing
- You need a pregnancy-safe or fungal acne-safe cleanser
- You love the rich, fluffy foam texture for a luxurious cleanse
- You want a budget-friendly Japanese cleanser from a trusted brand
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need extra moisture (may still feel slightly drying)
- You're extremely sensitive to any fragrance (contains light parfum)
- You need a heavy-duty makeup remover (use oil cleanser first)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free formulas
- You want active ingredients like BHA or AHA in your cleanser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for sensitive skin. Low pH, amino acid-based surfactants, and calming Cica minimize irritation risk. Clinically tested on sensitive skin types.
Balances well across oily and dry zones. Gentle enough for sensitive areas while effectively cleansing T-zone without over-stripping.
Maintains skin balance with hydrating Double HA. Leaves skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed without any tightness.
Contains Bentonite clay for oil absorption. Works well but very oily skin may prefer a stronger cleanser. Great as a gentle morning option.
Gentler than typical foam cleansers with added HA. Some very dry skin users may still feel slight dryness; follow immediately with hydrating toner.
Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe. Won't clog pores or feed Malassezia. Cica helps calm acne-related inflammation and redness.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Soft, Smooth, Calm Skin
Skin feels instantly soothed and soft after rinsing. No tightness, stripping, or discomfort. The airy foam lifts away impurities gently.
97% noticed immediate calming effectReduced Redness & Irritation
Sensitive and reactive skin begins to show improvement. Less redness after cleansing, fewer irritation episodes, and improved comfort throughout the day.
85% reported less post-cleanse tightnessBalanced, Healthier-Looking Skin
Skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient. Complexion appears more balanced with reduced oiliness in T-zone and improved overall skin texture.
78% noticed improved skin balanceConsistent Clear Complexion
With continued use, skin maintains a calm, clear state. Fewer breakouts, less sensitivity, and a soft, supple texture becomes your new normal.
Users report consistent results with daily useRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally gentle on sensitive and reactive skin
- Low pH maintains skin barrier integrity
- Rich, luxurious airy foam texture
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
- Cica effectively calms redness and irritation
- Affordable price point for J-beauty quality
- Free from common irritants (alcohol, sulfates, parabens)
- Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe
- Japan's #1 cleanser brand reputation
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (though light and non-irritating for most)
- May feel slightly drying for very dry skin types
- Won't remove heavy/waterproof makeup alone
- 100g tube may run out quickly with daily use
- Not as deep-cleaning as the original Perfect Whip
- Green tint from chromium oxide can seem unusual
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also low pH (~5.0-6.0) with gentle surfactants. Contains tea tree oil and BHA (betaine salicylate) for mild exfoliation. Gel texture vs cream foam. Good for oily/acne-prone skin but may be less soothing than Cica formula.
Japanese brand with similar hyaluronic acid focus and gentle amino acid surfactants. Less soothing actives (no Cica), but excellent hydration. Foam texture comparable. Fragrance-free options available.
K-beauty option with even higher Centella Asiatica concentration. Self-foaming pump dispenser for convenience. May have stronger herbal scent. Good alternative if you want maximum Cica benefits.
COSRX's dedicated Cica cleanser line. Creamier, richer texture with Centella Asiatica and three types of Centella derivatives. Slightly higher price point but excellent for very sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the jar symbol on packaging for specific guidance.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep cap tightly closed after each use.
Squeezable tube with flip-top cap. Easy to dispense controlled amounts. Hygienic design minimizes contamination.
Yes, 100g/3.5oz is TSA-approved for carry-on luggage (under 100ml/3.4oz liquid limit when factoring cream density).
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients of concern. The formula uses gentle amino acid-based surfactants and soothing Centella Asiatica. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns about any skincare products during pregnancy.
Yes, unlike the original Senka Perfect Whip (which contains stearic acid, myristic acid, and lauric acid), this Low pH Cica version is formulated without these fatty acids that can feed Malassezia yeast. The ingredient list is free from fermented ingredients, problematic oils, esters, and polysorbates. It uses gentle amino acid-based surfactants like Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate and Potassium Cocoyl Glutamate instead.
Yes, absolutely! This gentle, low pH cleanser is an excellent choice when using active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. The low pH (~5.5) won't neutralize your acid-based actives, and the Cica helps calm any irritation these powerful ingredients might cause. Use this cleanser, wait for skin to dry, then apply your actives. The soothing formula makes it especially helpful on nights when you're using retinol.
This cleanser is best suited for sensitive, reactive, combination, and normal skin types. It was specifically designed for sensitive skin with its low pH, gentle surfactants, and calming Cica. It's also excellent for acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe). Oily skin can use it but may prefer something stronger. Very dry skin may find it slightly drying despite the hydrating ingredients—follow immediately with a rich toner and moisturizer.
You'll notice immediate results: skin feels soft, smooth, and calm right after the first use with no tightness. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, sensitive skin typically shows reduced redness and irritation. By week 3-4, skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient. Full benefits are experienced with continued daily use over 1-2 months, including a more balanced, consistently calm complexion.
Use this as your second step in a double-cleanse routine (after oil cleanser to remove sunscreen/makeup) or as a standalone morning cleanser. Apply to wet skin, massage with the foam for 30-60 seconds, rinse thoroughly, then immediately follow with toner. The low pH prepares your skin optimally for acids and active ingredients that follow.
No, this cleanser has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5 (very low). It's dermatologist-tested and labeled non-comedogenic. The formula contains no heavy oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients. The Bentonite clay actually helps absorb excess oil from pores. It's safe for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin types.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months from first use. The 100g tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (using about 2cm of product each time). Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain freshness and efficacy throughout the product's lifespan.
Verdict: The Senka Perfect Whip Low pH Calming Cica is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a gentle, effective cleanser that won't compromise their skin barrier. Its standout features include the skin-friendly low pH, soothing Cica and Soy extracts, pregnancy and fungal acne safety, and the luxurious airy whip foam texture Senka is famous for. While it contains a light fragrance that may not suit the most fragrance-sensitive users, it represents exceptional value from Japan's #1 cleanser brand. Ideal for sensitive, reactive, and acne-prone skin types looking for a reliable daily cleanser that cleanses without causing tightness, redness, or irritation.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Bentonite
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Suspending Agent -Nonsurfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|