Pure Cleansing Water Sensitive
Pure Cleansing Water Sensitive
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, low-pH micellar cleansing water that effectively removes makeup and impurities using Triple+ Micellar Technology with 4 plant-derived surfactants. Formulated with PHA, LHA, Pear Flower Extract, and 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid to cleanse without stripping moisture from sensitive skin.
Triple+ Micellar Technology
4 plant-derived surfactants with varying particle sizes attract and remove impurities of all sizes for thorough cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple+ Micellar Technology
4 plant-derived surfactants with varying particle sizes attract and remove impurities of all sizes for thorough cleansing.
Pear Flower Extract
Patented soothing ingredient with antioxidant and moisturizing properties to calm sensitive skin.
Hyalpol Glow Complex
5 types of hyaluronic acid for multi-level hydration and skin brightening without tightness.
Low pH Balanced
Slightly acidic formula similar to skin's natural pH helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA), a derivative of salicylic acid. While topical use at low concentrations is generally considered safe, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (an ester) and Cetearyl Olivate/Sorbitan Olivate which may potentially feed malassezia. Those with fungal acne should patch test first.
Dermatologically tested and formulated specifically for sensitive skin. Free from common irritants like fragrance, alcohol, and harsh sulfates.
Water-based formula with low comedogenic rating (1/5). Unlikely to clog pores when used as directed.
Gluconolactone (PHA) and Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA) provide gentle exfoliation. Use sunscreen daily as exfoliants may increase sun sensitivity.
EVE Vegan certified. 100% plant-derived surfactants with no animal-derived ingredients or testing.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGluconolactone (PHA)Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates while providing antioxidant protection. Larger molecular size than AHAs means less irritation and deeper hydration.
- Function: Gentle exfoliation, antioxidant, humectant
- Research: Studies show PHAs provide similar benefits to AHAs without sensory irritation, suitable for rosacea and post-procedure skin
- Benefit: Smooths texture, improves skin clarity, attracts moisture
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA)Proven
A lipophilic derivative of salicylic acid that exfoliates more gently by targeting only the surface layer of skin. Known as Lipo Hydroxy Acid.
- Function: Keratolytic exfoliant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic
- Research: Studies show LHA is comparable to benzoyl peroxide for acne treatment but less irritating than salicylic acid
- Penetration: Only 6% penetrates past stratum corneum vs 58% for salicylic acid
Pyrus Communis (Pear) Flower ExtractPromising
Ma:nyo's patented soothing ingredient derived from Western pear flowers. Provides antioxidant and moisturizing benefits.
- Function: Soothing, antioxidant, moisturizing
- Benefit: Calms irritated and sensitive skin while providing hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate CrosspolymerProven
Part of the Hyalpol Glow complex containing 5 types of hyaluronic acid for multi-level hydration.
- Function: Humectant, moisture retention
- Benefit: Binds water to skin, provides lasting hydration even after cleansing
- Technology: Crosslinked form creates a moisture reservoir on skin surface
Plant-Derived SurfactantsKey Technology
Four polyglyceryl-based surfactants (Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate) with different particle sizes.
- Function: Gentle cleansing, emulsification, solubilization
- Technology: Triple+ Micellar Technology attracts impurities of various sizes
- Source: Derived from coconut and castor oil
21 ingredients
Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Gluconolactone, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Citrate, Methylpropanediol, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Flower Extract, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Tromethamine, Benzyl Glycol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Cetearyl Olivate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Olivate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your PM routine to remove makeup and sunscreen. Can be used alone for light cleansing or followed by a foam cleanser for double cleansing. Also suitable for a quick AM cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USESaturate Cotton Pad
Pour a generous amount of cleansing water onto a cotton pad until fully saturated.
Gently Wipe Face
Gently wipe across the entire face in upward circular motions. For eye makeup, hold pad on closed eyes for a few seconds before wiping.
Repeat if Needed
Use additional cotton pads until no residue remains. Heavy makeup may require 2-3 pads.
Rinse (Optional)
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, or leave on for no-rinse cleansing. Follow with foam cleanser for double cleansing.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive or easily irritated skin
- You want gentle makeup removal without rubbing
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare products
- You follow a double cleansing routine
- You need a quick cleanse without water access
- You want mild exfoliation with PHA/LHA
- You prefer vegan and cruelty-free products
Consider alternatives if:
- You need to remove heavy waterproof makeup (oil cleanser may be better)
- You have confirmed fungal acne and need 100% FA-safe products
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid all salicylic acid derivatives
- You prefer foam or gel cleanser textures
- You want a single-step deep cleanse
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for sensitive skin. Low pH, fragrance-free, and gentle surfactants minimize irritation risk.
Hyaluronic acid complex provides hydration. Non-stripping formula leaves skin moisturized, never tight after use.
Light watery texture won't add excess oil. PHA and LHA help with pore clarity. Follow with foam cleanser for thorough cleanse.
Balanced formula works well across different face zones. Gentle enough for dry areas, effective for oily T-zone.
Non-comedogenic with gentle exfoliating acids. LHA helps with breakouts. Caution for fungal acne - patch test first.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSClean, Refreshed Skin
Makeup and impurities removed without residue. Skin feels fresh, hydrated, and never tight or stripped.
95% noticedImproved Skin Texture
Gentle PHA and LHA exfoliation starts smoothing rough patches and refining skin texture.
78% noticedClearer, Balanced Complexion
Regular use reveals more even skin tone, reduced congestion, and improved overall clarity.
65% noticedStrengthened Skin Barrier
Consistent pH-balanced cleansing helps maintain a healthy, resilient skin barrier with less sensitivity.
55% noticedRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle on sensitive skin
- No tightness or dryness after use
- Large 500ml bottle offers great value
- Fragrance-free, no irritating scent
- Low pH maintains skin barrier health
- Contains beneficial PHA and hyaluronic acid
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free certified
- Removes light to medium makeup effectively
Criticized
- May struggle with heavy waterproof makeup
- No pump dispenser included
- Not 100% fungal acne safe
- Contains salicylic acid derivative (pregnancy concern)
- Uses many cotton pads for full face
- Rinsing recommended for best results
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe original micellar water from France. Similar gentle cleansing action but lacks the PHA/LHA exfoliation and hyaluronic acid. Great for pure makeup removal without actives.
K-Beauty alternative with 87% Heartleaf extract for soothing. Contains panthenol and squalane instead of PHA/LHA. Simpler 12-ingredient formula, also low pH.
More affordable K-Beauty option with Witch Hazel and AHA. Contains ceramides and cica. Smaller 290ml size but lower price point. Good for those on a budget.
Drugstore option at a fraction of the price. Basic micellar technology without premium K-Beauty ingredients. Good for those prioritizing value over actives.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Large plastic bottle with flip-top cap. No pump included but compatible with aftermarket pumps.
No, 500ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits. Consider the 55ml travel size or decant into smaller container.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA), which is a derivative of salicylic acid. While topical salicylic acid at low concentrations is generally considered safe during pregnancy according to most dermatologists, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding all salicylic acid derivatives. The product also contains Gluconolactone (PHA), which is generally considered safe during pregnancy due to its gentle nature. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
This product is not 100% fungal acne safe. It contains Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (an ester), Cetearyl Olivate, and Sorbitan Olivate, which may potentially feed malassezia yeast. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider alternatives like Bioderma Sensibio H2O or products specifically formulated to be FA-safe. However, since this is a rinse-off product with short contact time, some users with mild fungal acne may tolerate it. Patch testing is recommended.
Yes, but with awareness. This cleansing water contains mild exfoliants (PHA and LHA), so layering strong actives on top may increase sensitivity. Since it's a cleanser that's rinsed off, the exfoliants have minimal contact time. You can safely use retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA in your routine after cleansing. However, if you experience irritation, consider using this cleanser on alternate nights from your strong actives. Always use sunscreen during the day when using any exfoliating products.
This product is excellent for sensitive, dry, combination, and normal skin types. It was specifically formulated for sensitive skin with its low pH, fragrance-free formula, and gentle plant-derived surfactants. Dry skin types will appreciate the hyaluronic acid complex that prevents post-cleanse tightness. Oily and acne-prone skin can benefit from the gentle PHA and LHA exfoliation, though it works best as part of a double-cleansing routine. Not ideal for those with confirmed fungal acne.
You'll notice clean, refreshed skin immediately after use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, the gentle PHA and LHA exfoliation should start improving skin texture. After 4-6 weeks, expect a more even skin tone and improved clarity. For full barrier-strengthening benefits from the pH-balanced formula, consistent use for 8+ weeks is recommended. Results vary based on individual skin conditions and how it's incorporated into your overall skincare routine.
Use this as the first step in your PM routine to remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities. It can be followed by a foam cleanser for double cleansing (recommended for heavy makeup) or used alone for light cleansing. In the AM, it can serve as a gentle, quick cleanse before your skincare routine. Apply to a cotton pad and wipe across the face, then either rinse with water or follow with your next products. Always apply sunscreen as the final step in your AM routine.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores when used as directed. It's a water-based formula primarily composed of gentle surfactants that rinse clean. The formula is non-comedogenic and has been dermatologically tested. However, if you have extremely acne-prone skin, ensure you rinse thoroughly after use. The small amounts of emollients (Cetyl Ethylhexanoate) have short contact time in a rinse-off product, minimizing pore-clogging risk.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly closed between uses. The large 500ml bottle typically lasts 2-4 months with twice daily use, well within the 12-month window. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, discontinue use. The formula contains preservatives (1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin) to maintain stability throughout use.
Verdict: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Water Sensitive is an excellent choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective micellar cleanser with added skincare benefits. The Triple+ Micellar Technology delivers thorough cleansing without irritation, while the PHA, LHA, and hyaluronic acid complex provide gentle exfoliation and hydration that sets it apart from basic micellar waters. The fragrance-free, vegan formula with low pH makes it ideal for sensitive skin. Minor drawbacks include the esters that may concern those with fungal acne and the LHA content for pregnancy. At $24 for 500ml, it offers good value compared to similar K-Beauty cleansing waters and outperforms many drugstore alternatives in terms of ingredient sophistication.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|







