Purify And Prep Clarifying Cleanser
Purify And Prep Clarifying Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, dermatologist-designed cream-to-foam cleanser that lifts away oil, dirt, sunscreen, and makeup without stripping the skin barrier. Formulated with mild coconut-derived surfactants and glycerin, this pH-balanced formula transforms into a soft, lightweight foam to leave skin clean, calm, and prepped for active treatments.
Gentle Cream-to-Foam Technology
Starts as a creamy balm that transforms into a soft, lightweight foam when lathered with water, providing thorough cleansing without harsh stripping.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle Cream-to-Foam Technology
Starts as a creamy balm that transforms into a soft, lightweight foam when lathered with water, providing thorough cleansing without harsh stripping.
Barrier-Respecting Formula
Coconut-derived surfactants (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate) cleanse gently while preserving the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Glycerin-Infused Hydration
Contains glycerin to attract and hold moisture, ensuring skin feels soft and hydrated after cleansing rather than dry and tight.
Designed for Active Treatments
Developed by dermatologists specifically to complement prescription-strength actives like tretinoin, niacinamide, and azelaic acid without causing irritation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All 13 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and while nursing.
Contains Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate and Glycol Distearate, both of which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you are prone to fungal acne.
Minimal pore-clogging potential. Cetearyl alcohol has a debated medium comedogenic rating, but in a rinse-off cleanser, risk is negligible.
Fragrance-free, SLS/SLES-free, paraben-free, and pH balanced. Formulated with mild surfactants that are among the gentlest available.
Specifically designed by dermatologists to pair with tretinoin, niacinamide, azelaic acid, and other powerful active ingredients without over-sensitising skin.
Contains benzyl alcohol (a mild preservative, not a drying alcohol). Generally well-tolerated, but those with known sensitivity to benzyl alcohol should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~3-5%Proven
A naturally occurring humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Studies show glycerin is more effective than hyaluronic acid and AHAs as a moisturiser. Found naturally in the skin's lipid barrier.
- Function: Humectant, moisturiser, skin-identical ingredient
- Comedogenic rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than hyaluronic acid, with benefits for barrier repair at concentrations as low as 3%
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate ~3-8%Proven
Known as "baby foam" in the cosmetics industry due to its extreme mildness. This coconut-derived surfactant provides gentle, effective cleansing without disrupting the skin barrier.
- Function: Primary cleansing surfactant
- Source: Derived from coconut oil fatty acids
- Research: Classified as one of the mildest anionic surfactants available, significantly less irritating than SLS/SLES
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate ~2-5%Proven
A mild amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut oil. Creates a smooth, creamy lather while being resistant to hard water, acid, and alkali conditions.
- Function: Secondary cleansing surfactant, foam booster
- Source: Coconut oil-derived
- Benefits: Leaves skin feeling smooth and comfortable after rinsing; works well in various water conditions
Cetearyl Alcohol ~3-5%Proven
A fatty alcohol (not a drying alcohol) that acts as an emollient and emulsifier. Helps create the cream-to-foam texture and prevents ingredient separation. FDA allows "alcohol-free" labelling for products containing fatty alcohols.
- Function: Emollient, emulsifier, texture enhancer
- Research: Studies confirm it is non-toxic and non-irritating for most skin types
- Comedogenic rating: 2 (low-moderate, but minimal concern in rinse-off products)
Coco-Glucoside ~1-3%Proven
An ultra-gentle, biodegradable surfactant made from glucose and coconut oil. Known for being one of the most skin-friendly cleansing agents, often used in baby products.
- Function: Gentle surfactant, cleansing agent
- Source: Derived from glucose (sugar) and coconut oil
- Research: Considered gentle and non-comedogenic; suitable for very sensitive skin
13 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Coco-Glucoside, Glycol Distearate, Benzyl Alcohol, Chlorphenesin, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM & PM as the first step of your routine. In the evening, follow with your prescription treatment or active serum, then moisturiser. In the morning, follow with moisturiser and SPF.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face and neck to dampen the skin before application.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a small amount (about the size of a 10p coin) onto fingertips. Gently massage onto damp skin using circular motions. The cream texture will transform into a soft foam.
Cleanse for 30–60 Seconds
Work the foam across your entire face, including the jawline, nose, and forehead. Avoid the eye area. Allow the gentle surfactants to dissolve oil, dirt, sunscreen, and makeup.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel. Follow immediately with your next skincare step while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You use prescription actives (tretinoin, azelaic acid, niacinamide) and need a gentle supporting cleanser
- Your skin gets irritated or tight from regular foaming cleansers
- You want a simple, no-fuss cleanser with minimal ingredients
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe daily cleanser
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan skincare
- You have oily or combination skin that needs a mild clarifying cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — contains ingredients that can feed yeast
- You need a deep-cleansing or exfoliating cleanser with active acids (BHA/AHA)
- You want a cleanser with added ceramides or hyaluronic acid for extra barrier repair
- You prefer a rich, thick oil or balm cleanser for heavy makeup removal
- You are looking for a large bottle — this is 80ml, which may run out quickly with twice-daily use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCream-to-foam formula effectively removes excess sebum and oil without over-stripping. Leaves a clean, comfortable finish without added shine.
Glycerin helps maintain hydration during cleansing. Won't strip natural moisture, but very dry skin may prefer the Hydrating Cleanser variant instead.
Ideal balance of clarifying oily zones while respecting drier areas. The light foam provides even cleansing across different face zones.
Fragrance-free, SLS-free, paraben-free with only 13 gentle ingredients. Dermatologist-designed to minimise irritation risk. Patch test if highly reactive.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and gentle formula supports acne-treated skin. However, not fungal acne safe and contains no active anti-acne ingredients.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Clean Feel
Skin feels clean, fresh, and comfortable immediately after first use. No tightness, dryness, or residue. Makeup and sunscreen effectively removed.
95% noticedSkin Feels Calmer & Smoother
Reduced irritation from active treatments. Skin feels softer and more balanced as the gentle formula supports the skin barrier during use alongside prescription actives.
87% noticedImproved Clarity & Less Congestion
When used alongside active treatments, skin appears clearer with fewer breakouts. Pores appear less congested as daily cleansing routine takes effect.
78% noticedHealthier, More Balanced Complexion
Skin barrier is well-supported, active ingredients from treatment serums work more effectively. Overall complexion looks more even, radiant, and healthy.
82% noticedRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — never leaves skin feeling tight or stripped
- Cream-to-foam texture feels luxurious and comfortable to use
- Only 13 ingredients — minimal risk of irritation or sensitisation
- Fragrance-free and pH balanced for even the most sensitive skin
- Dermatologist-designed specifically to support prescription treatments
- Recyclable aluminium tube packaging reduces plastic waste
- Effectively removes makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Small 80ml tube may not last long with twice-daily use
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate & Glycol Distearate)
- No active ingredients (no BHA, ceramides, or niacinamide)
- Light foam may not feel satisfying for those who prefer a deep, rich lather
- Previously only available via subscription; retail expansion is recent
- Price per ml is higher than many drugstore alternatives
- May not remove very heavy or waterproof makeup on its own
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar mild surfactant blend. Adds ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for extra barrier support. Larger 236ml bottle. Slightly more foaming than Skin + Me.
Another gentle, cream-to-foam formula for sensitive skin. Contains ceramides and niacinamide plus thermal spring water. Slightly larger 125ml tube. Also fragrance-free and paraben-free.
Classic gentle cleanser with a creamy, non-foaming formula. Does not transform to foam like Skin + Me. Very minimal ingredient list. Available in 236ml and 473ml sizes for better value.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tube cap securely closed between uses.
Recyclable aluminium squeeze tube with screw cap. Eco-conscious design reducing single-use plastic.
Yes — 80ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact metal tube is durable and leak-resistant for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients that are flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All 13 ingredients are considered safe for use by pregnant and nursing individuals. Skin + Me also offers pregnancy-safe prescription formulations through their dermatology service.
No. This cleanser contains Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate and Glycol Distearate, both of which can feed Malassezia yeast and are flagged as not fungal acne safe. Cetearyl Alcohol may also be problematic for some individuals with Malassezia folliculitis. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives specifically labelled as fungal acne safe.
Yes — this cleanser was specifically designed by dermatologists to complement prescription-strength actives such as tretinoin, niacinamide, azelaic acid, and vitamin C. It contains no actives itself, so there is no risk of over-exfoliation. However, Skin + Me recommends using a stripped-back routine (cleanser, treatment, moisturiser, SPF) when starting strong actives, and avoiding additional exfoliants in the initial weeks.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types. The cream-to-foam formula is designed to remove excess oil and impurities while being gentle enough for reactive skin. Those with very dry skin may prefer the Hydrating Cleanser variant from Skin + Me, which uses emollients instead of foam-based surfactants.
As a cleanser, you will notice immediately cleaner, more comfortable skin from the first use. When used as part of a complete routine with active treatments, most users report calmer, smoother skin within 1-2 weeks and improved clarity within 4-8 weeks. A cleanser alone does not treat skin conditions, but it creates the optimal base for your active products to work effectively.
This cleanser is the first step in both your AM and PM routines. In the morning: Cleanser → Moisturiser → SPF. In the evening: Cleanser → Treatment serum or Daily Doser → Moisturiser. Apply to damp skin, massage into a foam, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. While Cetearyl Alcohol has a debated comedogenic potential, in a rinse-off product that stays on skin for under 60 seconds, the pore-clogging risk is negligible. The formula is designed to clarify and remove impurities, not to leave residue that could block pores.
The cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 80ml tube is designed to last approximately 4-6 weeks with twice-daily use (AM and PM). Skin + Me offers the cleanser on an 8-week delivery cycle as part of their subscription service. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed.
Verdict: The Skin + Me Purify + Prep Clarifying Cleanser is an excellent, no-frills cleanser designed with one clear purpose — to gently cleanse without interfering with your active treatments. Its minimalist 13-ingredient formula, dermatologist pedigree, and cream-to-foam texture make it a standout choice for anyone using prescription-strength skincare. Where it falls short is the small 80ml size for the price, the lack of added actives like ceramides or niacinamide, and the fact it is not fungal acne safe. If you are using Skin + Me's Daily Doser or any retinoid treatment and want a reliable, gentle daily cleanser that won't compromise your results, this is a smart, well-formulated pick.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 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
|