pH Control Cleansing Face Wash
pH Control Cleansing Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-tested, pH-balancing gel-to-foam cleanser formulated with Gluconolactone (PHA), Niacinamide and Zinc to deeply cleanse pores, control bacteria and maintain skin hydration for up to 4 hours. Designed for acne-prone, oily and combination skin.
pH-Balancing Formula
Clinically proven to cleanse while respecting the skin's natural pH, helping maintain the acid mantle and prevent bacterial overgrowth that leads to breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYpH-Balancing Formula
Clinically proven to cleanse while respecting the skin's natural pH, helping maintain the acid mantle and prevent bacterial overgrowth that leads to breakouts.
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
Combines Gluconolactone (PHA), Mandelic Acid and Glycolic Acid for gentle multi-level exfoliation that unclogs pores without stripping the skin barrier.
Niacinamide + Zinc Complex
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Zinc Gluconate work together to regulate sebum production, reduce redness and support the skin's natural defence against bacteria.
4-Hour Hydration
Glycerin and Propanediol deliver up to 4 hours of hydration post-cleanse, so skin feels clean and comfortable rather than tight or stripped.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Glycolic Acid and Mandelic Acid (AHAs) at low concentrations. While this is a rinse-off product and concentrations are low, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Most ingredients are fungal acne safe, but contains Parfum (fragrance) which may include unknown compounds. The Glycolic Acid can actually help with fungal acne, but patch test first if you are sensitive.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Oil-free, soap-free formula does not clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Dermatologically tested on sensitive, spot-prone skin. Uses gentle amino acid-based surfactants (Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate) instead of harsh sulphates.
Contains AHAs (Glycolic & Mandelic Acid). Use caution when pairing with other exfoliating products such as retinol, Vitamin C serums or additional AHA/BHA treatments to avoid over-exfoliation.
Unlike Acnecide's medicated range, this Purifide cleanser does not contain benzoyl peroxide. It will not bleach towels, clothing or hair.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGluconolactone (PHA) ~3-4%Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates the skin surface while simultaneously hydrating. Less irritating than AHAs like glycolic acid, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Function: Gentle chemical exfoliant, humectant, and antioxidant
- Research: Studies show PHAs provide comparable exfoliation to AHAs with significantly less irritation and stinging
- Antibacterial: Helps reduce surface bacteria linked to acne breakouts
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2-3%Proven
A versatile, well-researched active that helps regulate sebum production, strengthen the skin barrier, even skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
- Sebum Control: At 2%+ concentration, shown to help balance oil production
- Barrier Support: Boosts ceramide synthesis to strengthen the skin's natural defence
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms irritation associated with acne
Zinc Gluconate ~0.1-0.5%Promising
A zinc salt with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps regulate oil production and supports the skin's healing processes.
- Antimicrobial: Zinc has demonstrated activity against acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes)
- Oil Regulation: Helps control excess sebum production in oily skin
- Soothing: Calms inflammation and supports wound healing
Mandelic Acid (AHA) <1%Proven
A larger-molecule AHA derived from almonds that penetrates skin more slowly and evenly, making it gentler than glycolic acid. Has antibacterial properties and helps with hyperpigmentation.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Larger molecular size means slower, more even penetration with less irritation
- Antibacterial: Shown to reduce P. acnes bacteria on the skin
- Brightening: Helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from past breakouts
Glycolic Acid (AHA) <1%Proven
The smallest AHA molecule that penetrates deeply to exfoliate and promote cell turnover. At this low concentration in a wash-off format, it provides gentle surface-level exfoliation.
- Cell Turnover: Promotes shedding of dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin
- Pore Refining: Helps dissolve pore-clogging sebum and debris
- Synergy: Works with Gluconolactone and Mandelic Acid for multi-level exfoliation
Glycerin ~5-8%Proven
A powerhouse humectant ranked 2nd in the INCI list. Draws moisture into the skin's upper layers and supports the skin barrier, ensuring the face feels hydrated rather than stripped after cleansing.
- Hydration: One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin moisture balance during cleansing
18 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Gluconolactone, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Niacinamide, Sodium Citrate, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Propanediol, Zinc Gluconate, Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum, Sodium Chloride.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in both your AM and PM routine. This cleanser replaces your regular face wash. Follow with a Purifide moisturiser to lock in hydration.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water to prepare the skin for cleansing.
Apply & Lather
Squeeze a small amount of gel onto wet hands and massage gently over the face in circular motions, building into a light foam.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Avoid contact with eyes.
Pat Dry & Moisturise
Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with a moisturiser and SPF during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin
- You want a gentle cleanser that won't strip your skin
- You deal with recurring breakouts, blackheads or clogged pores
- You want to maintain your skin's pH balance while cleansing
- You need a cleanser that pairs well with acne treatments (e.g. Acnecide benzoyl peroxide gel)
- You prefer a soap-free, sulphate-free formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a cream or oil-based cleanser
- You are sensitive or allergic to fragrance (contains Parfum)
- You want a medicated cleanser with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (use a double-cleanse first)
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid all AHA ingredients entirely
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRemoves excess sebum effectively without over-drying. Zinc and Niacinamide help regulate oil production throughout the day.
pH-balanced formula respects drier areas while effectively cleansing oily zones. Glycerin ensures adequate hydration.
Specifically formulated for blemish-prone skin. Triple-acid complex unclogs pores while antibacterial ingredients target breakout causes.
Dermatologically tested on sensitive skin. Gentle surfactants and PHA exfoliation are well-tolerated, though the fragrance may bother very reactive skin.
Glycerin and Propanediol provide some hydration, but dry skin types may still feel slightly tight. Best paired with a rich moisturiser immediately after.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8–12Cleaner, Fresher Feeling Skin
Skin feels noticeably cleaner and more balanced after each wash. Excess oiliness is reduced and pores appear less congested. Some users report an immediate improvement in skin texture.
80% noticed fresher complexionReduced Breakouts & Improved Texture
The PHA and AHA complex begins to show cumulative exfoliation benefits. Fewer new breakouts, smoother skin texture and reduced blackheads. Niacinamide starts visibly calming redness.
65% noticed fewer new breakoutsVisibly Clearer, More Even Skin
Consistent use leads to visibly clearer skin. Post-acne marks begin to fade thanks to gentle exfoliation. Oil production feels more balanced and skin appears healthier overall.
70% reported clearer skin overallLong-Term Maintenance & Prevention
Skin's microbiome is better balanced. Breakouts are less frequent and less severe. Pores appear refined and skin has a healthier, more even tone when used as part of a full routine.
75% maintained clearer skin with continued useRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle, doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
- Noticeable improvement in skin freshness and texture from first use
- pH-balanced formula respects the skin's acid mantle
- Effective at reducing oiliness without over-drying
- Works well alongside Acnecide benzoyl peroxide treatments
- Short, clean ingredient list (only 18 ingredients)
- Soap-free and sulphate-free formula
- Dermatologist-developed by Galderma
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) which some prefer to avoid
- 150ml size may not last long with twice-daily use
- Pump dispenser reported to clog on some bottles
- Not effective enough on its own for moderate-to-severe acne
- May feel slightly drying for very dry skin types
- Not readily available outside the UK market
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also features Gluconolactone (PHA) for gentle exfoliation. However, it's a toner rather than a cleanser, so serves a different step in the routine. Similar gentle acid approach at a comparable price point.
Budget-friendly gel cleanser with Zinc and Thyme for blemish-prone skin. Lacks the PHA/AHA acid complex and Niacinamide, but offers similar gentle cleansing for oily skin at nearly half the price.
Affordable gel cleanser with lime and salicylic acid for oily and acne-prone skin. More aggressive cleansing action and lacks the pH-balancing focus and PHA technology of the Purifide formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap / pump dispenser (150ml)
Yes — 150ml is above the 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into a travel bottle for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This cleanser contains Glycolic Acid and Mandelic Acid (AHAs) at low concentrations in a rinse-off formula. While the exposure is minimal, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding AHAs during pregnancy as a precaution. It does NOT contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. Always consult your doctor or midwife before using any new skincare product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Mostly safe with a minor caveat. The formula is largely free of common fungal acne triggers — no ferments, no fatty acids, no esters, no polysorbates. The acids (Gluconolactone, Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid) can actually be beneficial for fungal acne by exfoliating and lowering skin pH. However, it does contain Parfum (fragrance), whose exact composition is undisclosed. If you are very sensitive to fungal acne triggers, consider patch testing first.
Yes, but with care. Since this cleanser already contains Gluconolactone (PHA), Mandelic Acid and Glycolic Acid, layering additional strong exfoliants like retinol, high-concentration Vitamin C, or separate AHA/BHA treatments may cause over-exfoliation. Start slowly — use the wash in the morning and your active treatments at night. If you notice redness, stinging or peeling, reduce usage frequency. It pairs especially well with the Acnecide benzoyl peroxide gel as designed by the brand.
This cleanser is specifically formulated for oily, combination and acne-prone skin. It excels at removing excess sebum, unclogging pores and maintaining bacterial balance without stripping the skin. It is also dermatologically tested on sensitive, spot-prone skin. Those with very dry skin may find it slightly drying and should follow with a rich moisturiser. It is suitable for adults and teens aged 12+.
Many users report feeling a difference from the very first wash — skin feels cleaner, fresher and less oily. Visible improvements in breakout frequency and skin texture typically appear within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. For more significant improvements in acne scarring and overall skin clarity, allow 6–12 weeks. For best results, use as part of a complete routine with a suitable moisturiser and SPF.
This cleanser is always the first step of your skincare routine, used on wet skin morning and evening. If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, consider using a micellar water or oil cleanser first (double-cleanse method), then follow with this pH Control Face Wash. After cleansing, proceed with toner, serum, spot treatments, moisturiser, and SPF (daytime only).
No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. The formula is oil-free and soap-free, with gentle amino acid-based surfactants. In fact, the PHA and AHA acids in the formula actively help to unclog existing pore blockages. It is suitable for those prone to blackheads, whiteheads and acne.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 150ml bottle typically lasts 6–8 weeks when used twice daily (morning and evening). Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C with the cap tightly closed to maintain efficacy throughout the product's shelf life.
Verdict: The Purifide pH Control Face Wash is an impressive, well-formulated gel cleanser from the makers of Acnecide (Galderma UK). Its unique combination of Gluconolactone (PHA), Niacinamide and Zinc offers a smart, multi-pronged approach to acne-prone skin — balancing pH, controlling bacteria and gently exfoliating — all without the harshness of benzoyl peroxide or strong sulphate surfactants. The short 18-ingredient list is a plus for those who prefer simpler formulations. The main drawbacks are the inclusion of fragrance, the relatively small 150ml size for the price, and limited global availability. Overall, it's an excellent daily cleanser for oily, combination and spot-prone skin, especially when paired with the broader Acnecide treatment range.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|