Pure Skin Face Cleanser
Pure Skin Face Cleanser
Product Description
A fragrance-free, pH-balanced gentle cream cleanser that effectively removes makeup, dirt, and impurities while calming redness and leaving skin soft, supple, and never tight or dry. Infused with powerful botanical antioxidants including Feverfew, Licorice Root, and White Tea to protect against environmental aggressors.
β¨ Texture & Feel
pH-Balanced Formula
Maintains skin's natural acidity at pH 5.5 to reduce flare-ups and keep the skin barrier healthy.
FAB Antioxidant Booster
Proprietary blend of Licorice Root, Feverfew, and White Tea to fight environmental damage and calm irritation.
Non-Stripping Cleanse
Gentle surfactant Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate removes makeup and impurities without disrupting the moisture barrier.
Clean Beauty Standards
Free from over 1,300 potentially harmful ingredients including parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial fragrances.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Licorice Root Extract (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) which some dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains potential triggers including Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, and Glyceryl Oleate. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Dermatologist tested, allergy tested, and formulated specifically for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Rated 1/5 on comedogenic scale. Non-comedogenic formula unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Gentle enough for use alongside prescription treatments.
Suitable for eczema and rosacea-prone skin. Allantoin and botanical extracts help calm inflammation.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧴠Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Proven
A coconut-derived gentle surfactant known as "baby foam" for its mild, non-irritating cleansing properties. Creates a creamy lather without stripping the skin barrier.
- Function: Primary cleansing agent derived from coconut fatty acids
- Benefits: Gentle enough for baby products, maintains skin barrier integrity
- Studies: Shown to have minimal impact on transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
π§ Glycerin Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, helping to maintain hydration levels during and after cleansing.
- Function: Humectant and moisturizer
- Comedogenic: Rating 0 - Will not clog pores
- Studies: Clinically proven to improve skin hydration and barrier function
πΏ Allantoin Proven
A soothing compound derived from comfrey plant that calms irritation, promotes wound healing, and softens skin.
- Function: Skin protectant and soothing agent
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, promotes cell regeneration
- Studies: FDA-approved skin protectant ingredient
πΈ Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract Promising
A botanical extract with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps reduce redness and calm reactive skin.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
- Benefits: Reduces redness, soothes irritation
- Note: First Aid Beauty uses Parthenolide-free feverfew extract to minimize sensitization risk
π΅ Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (White/Green Tea) Proven
Rich in polyphenols and catechins (especially EGCG), providing powerful antioxidant protection against environmental damage.
- Function: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Benefits: UV protection, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory
- Studies: Extensively researched for skin-protective benefits
πͺ΄ Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract Proven
Contains glabridin, a potent compound that inhibits melanin production and provides anti-inflammatory benefits for brighter, calmer skin.
- Function: Brightening, anti-inflammatory, soothing
- Benefits: Reduces hyperpigmentation, calms redness
- Studies: Research suggests comparable to hydroquinone for skin lightening with fewer side effects
π΅ Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Proven
A time-tested botanical that calms, soothes, and hydrates the skin while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Function: Soothing, hydrating, anti-inflammatory
- Benefits: Calms irritation, promotes healing
- Studies: Well-documented wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties
26 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Hydrogenated Coconut Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Stearyl Alcohol, Allantoin, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium PCA, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Sodium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Maltodextrin, Tetrasodium EDTA
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (PM) or as your sole cleanser (AM). Can be used morning and night.
π How to Use
Dampen Your Face
Wet your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water which can strip the skin and exacerbate sensitivity.
Dispense Product
Squeeze a dime-sized amount (about 1-2 pumps) onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Massage Gently
Using circular motions, gently massage the cleanser onto all areas of your face for 30-60 seconds. The whipped texture will transform into a creamy lather.
Rinse Thoroughly
Remove with lukewarm water or a soft, damp washcloth. Pat dry gently and follow with the rest of your skincare routine.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You want a gentle daily cleanser that won't strip moisture
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare products
- You struggle with redness or rosacea-prone skin
- You're looking for a clean beauty, cruelty-free option
- You use prescription acne treatments and need a gentle cleanser
- You want a pH-balanced formula that respects your skin barrier
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer a foaming cleanser with stronger cleansing power
- You're pregnant and prefer to avoid licorice root extract
- You have very oily skin and want a deep-cleansing formula
- You're looking for the most budget-friendly option
- You need a cleanser to remove heavy waterproof makeup alone
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Non-stripping formula with glycerin leaves skin hydrated, never tight. Perfect for dry and dehydrated skin types.
Specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and dermatologist-approved.
Gentle yet effective cleansing maintains skin balance without over-drying or leaving residue.
Works well for combo skin, though very oily T-zones may prefer a more clarifying cleanser.
May not feel cleansing enough for very oily skin. Consider using as second cleanser or for morning use only.
Non-comedogenic and gentle. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne. Low comedogenic rating of 1/5.
π Results Timeline
Clean, Soft Skin
Skin feels clean, soft, and refreshed without any tightness or dryness. The whipped texture transforms into a gentle lather that rinses clean.
95% noticed immediatelyReduced Irritation
Visible reduction in redness and skin reactivity. The pH-balanced formula helps calm flare-ups and maintain skin barrier health.
80% noticed improvementHealthier Skin Barrier
With consistent use, skin barrier becomes stronger and more resilient. Fewer reactive episodes and improved overall skin texture.
75% reported better skin healthLong-Term Benefits
Maintained skin health with continued use. Antioxidant ingredients provide ongoing protection against environmental stressors.
Many repurchase multiple timesβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Extremely gentle - perfect for sensitive skin
- Doesn't leave skin tight or dry after cleansing
- Fragrance-free with no artificial scents
- Clean beauty formula free from 1,300+ harmful ingredients
- pH-balanced at 5.5 for optimal skin health
- Vegan and cruelty-free (PETA certified)
- Works well with prescription acne treatments
- Creamy texture transforms into gentle lather
- A little product goes a long way
β Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- May not remove heavy/waterproof makeup alone
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Some find it too gentle for oily skin
- Contains licorice root (pregnancy concern)
- Tube packaging can be hard to get last bit out
- Some users report a slight soapy scent
- Can feel drying for some combination skin types
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Ultra-gentle, fragrance-free formula with minimal ingredients. Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive skin. More affordable but lacks the antioxidant botanical blend.
Contains prebiotic thermal spring water and ceramides. Slightly more hydrating formula. French pharmacy brand with similar gentle cleansing philosophy.
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier support. Larger size for the price. Some users report it leaves a film; different texture (lotion vs. cream).
Classic gentle cleanser that's been recommended by dermatologists for decades. More basic formula without botanical antioxidants. Can be used with or without water.
π Comparison with Competitors
First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser
$24/5ozCeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
$16/16ozLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser
$17/13.5ozVanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
$10/8ozπ¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check packaging for the 12M symbol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent contamination.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing prevents product contamination.
Yes - 2oz size is TSA-approved for carry-on. 5oz and 8oz sizes should be packed in checked luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. The cleanser contains Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, which some healthcare providers recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While the concentration in a rinse-off product is low, we recommend consulting your doctor or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or nursing. If you prefer to err on the side of caution, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser during this time.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several potential malassezia triggers including Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Oleate, and possibly other fatty acid derivatives. If you have fungal acne (pityrosporum/malassezia folliculitis), consider fungal acne-safe alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser, or specialty products from Malezia.
Yes! This cleanser is specifically formulated to be gentle enough to use alongside active ingredients and prescription treatments. Its pH-balanced, non-stripping formula won't interfere with or irritate skin that's using retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, or other actives. In fact, many dermatologists recommend gentle cleansers like this one when using potent actives to avoid over-stripping the skin.
This cleanser works best for dry, normal, and sensitive skin types. It's especially excellent for anyone with reactive, rosacea-prone, or easily irritated skin. Combination skin types generally find it suitable, though those with very oily skin may prefer a more clarifying cleanser. It's also a great choice for anyone using prescription acne treatments who needs a gentle, non-irritating cleanser.
You'll notice immediate results after the first use - skin will feel clean, soft, and comfortable without tightness. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, most users notice reduced redness and fewer reactive flare-ups. After 4-6 weeks, you should experience improved overall skin barrier health. As a cleanser, it provides maintenance benefits rather than dramatic transformation - the key is consistent, gentle cleansing that supports your skin's health over time.
Use this cleanser as the first step in your morning routine and as the second step (after oil cleanser) in your evening routine. In the PM, if you wear makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse by using an oil-based cleanser first, then follow with this water-based cleanser. In the AM, it can be your sole cleanser. Follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores for most people. The formula is non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested. However, as with any skincare product, individual reactions can vary. If you're extremely acne-prone, patch test first and introduce gradually into your routine.
The cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months, meaning it should be used within one year of opening. Look for the 12M symbol on the packaging. With twice-daily use, the 5oz tube typically lasts 2-3 months, and the 8oz tube lasts 3-4 months. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap closed to maximize shelf life and prevent contamination.
Verdict: First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser is an excellent choice for those with sensitive, dry, or reactive skin seeking a gentle, effective daily cleanser. The pH-balanced formula with antioxidant botanicals delivers on its promise of clean, calm skin without stripping or irritation. While the price is higher than drugstore alternatives and it's not suitable for fungal acne, the clean beauty credentials, cruelty-free certification, and carefully formulated ingredients make it worth the investment for the right skin type. Best paired with an oil cleanser for makeup removal and highly recommended for anyone using prescription acne treatments or active ingredients in their routine.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Coconut Acid
Emollient, Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
|
|