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Purifying Facial Cleanser

Purifying Facial Cleanser

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A gentle, oil-free facial cleanser specifically formulated to target Malassezia yeast and seborrheic dermatitis. Powered by biofilm-disrupting xylitol, soothing aloe vera (200x concentrated), and malassezia-safe squalane, this minimalist wash clears fungal overgrowth without stripping the skin barrier. Leaves skin calm, hydrated, and flake-free.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe Seb Derm Targeted Fragrance-Free Vegan Cruelty-Free Paraben-Free SLS/SLES-Free Oil-Free (Except Squalane) Phthalate-Free
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
4 fl oz / 118 mL
Price
$39.95
Type
Gel Cleanser
pH Level
~5.5 (Balanced)
Target
Seb Derm / Fungal Acne
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Biofilm Disruption

Xylitol breaks down the protective biofilm shield that Malassezia yeast creates, allowing active ingredients to reach and neutralize the root cause of irritation.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Contact Time
1 Minute
Finish
Clean & Hydrated

Biofilm Disruption

Xylitol breaks down the protective biofilm shield that Malassezia yeast creates, allowing active ingredients to reach and neutralize the root cause of irritation.

Deep Pore Cleansing

Gentle surfactants (cocamidopropyl betaine and hydroxysultaine) remove excess sebum and dirt without stripping the skin barrier or causing dryness.

Natural Exfoliation

Willow bark extract and papaya fruit enzymes gently dissolve dead, flaky skin cells while balancing skin tone and texture.

Malassezia-Safe Hydration

Squalane is one of the few oils that does not feed Malassezia yeast, providing nourishment and moisture without triggering flare-ups.

Soothing Botanicals

200x concentrated aloe vera, cucumber extract, and witch hazel calm redness, cool irritation, and reduce inflammation on contact.

3-in-1 Formula

Works as a cleanser, gentle exfoliator, and hydrating treatment in one step, simplifying your routine while maximizing results.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains willow bark extract (natural salicin, a salicylic acid precursor). While this is a wash-off product with low concentration, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Specifically formulated to avoid feeding Malassezia yeast. Free from ferments, problematic fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. Squalane is the only lipid used and is confirmed malassezia-safe.

Non-Comedogenic

Comedogenic rating 1/5. All ingredients score low on the comedogenicity scale. Squalane has a rating of 0 and glycerin is also rated 0. Unlikely to clog pores.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Free from SLS, SLES, fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and other common irritants. Uses mild coconut-derived surfactants. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.

Retinol Compatible

Does not contain strong actives that would conflict with retinol. The gentle exfoliation from willow bark and papaya enzymes is mild enough to use alongside retinoids in a PM routine.

Vitamin C / AHA / BHA Compatible

Can be used alongside vitamin C serums and chemical exfoliants. Since willow bark provides a mild natural BHA effect, monitor for over-exfoliation if pairing with other BHA products.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

SqualaneProven

A lightweight, non-greasy emollient derived from plant sources. Squalane is virtually identical to the squalene our skin naturally produces. It is one of the only oils confirmed safe for Malassezia-prone skin because yeast cannot metabolize it.

  • Research: Studies confirm squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration and has a comedogenic rating of 0.
  • Benefit: Antioxidant, detoxifying, and deeply hydrating without feeding fungal overgrowth.
  • Source: Plant-derived (olive or sugarcane).
Malassezia-safe oil: Yeast cannot metabolize squalane, making it ideal for fungal acne and seb derm-prone skin.

XylitolPromising

A sugar alcohol known for its anti-biofilm properties. In skincare, xylitol disrupts the protective biofilm that Malassezia yeast creates, making the fungus more vulnerable to treatment and removal during cleansing.

  • Research: Published studies demonstrate xylitol can reduce biofilm formation by multiple microorganisms, including Candida species.
  • Benefit: Disrupts fungal biofilm, allowing other actives to penetrate and clear yeast overgrowth more effectively.
  • Bonus: Also acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin.

Salix Alba (Willow) Bark ExtractProven

A natural source of salicin, which the body converts to salicylic acid. Provides gentle chemical exfoliation that helps remove dead, flaky skin while minimizing irritation compared to synthetic salicylic acid.

  • Research: Willow bark has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and keratolytic properties in dermatological studies.
  • Benefit: Gently dissolves flaky skin buildup, reduces redness, and helps keep pores clear.
Contains natural salicin (salicylic acid precursor). Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor before use.

Carica Papaya Fruit ExtractProven

Contains the enzyme papain, a natural proteolytic enzyme that breaks down dead skin proteins. Provides enzymatic exfoliation that is gentler than mechanical scrubbing or strong chemical peels.

  • Research: Papain has been used in wound healing and dermatology for its ability to dissolve dead tissue without damaging healthy skin.
  • Benefit: Removes flaky, scaling skin associated with seborrheic dermatitis while promoting smoother texture.

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice 200x ConcentratedProven

A concentrated form of aloe vera known for its anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and moisturizing properties. Soothes irritation, cools inflamed skin, and supports barrier repair.

  • Research: Multiple clinical studies confirm aloe vera reduces inflammation, accelerates wound healing, and provides antimicrobial benefits.
  • Benefit: Calms redness and itching associated with seb derm flare-ups while hydrating without adding problematic oils.

Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) WaterProven

A botanical astringent with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Helps tighten pores and reduce excess sebum without the harshness of alcohol-based toners.

  • Research: Witch hazel contains tannins and gallic acid that constrict pores and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Benefit: Reduces oiliness and helps minimize pore appearance while calming inflamed skin.
Witch hazel can be mildly sensitizing for extremely reactive skin due to its tannin content. Patch test if you have a known sensitivity.

16 ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Xylitol, Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Chloride, Alcohol, Maltodextrin.

FREE FROM: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Parabens, Fragrances, Phthalates, Coconut Oil, Almond Oil, Mineral Oil, Silicones, Formaldehyde, Dyes, Lanolin, Fermented Ingredients, Polysorbates, Fatty Acid Esters
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
This Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use AM & PM as the first step of your routine. For best results, pair with Dermazen Calming Seborrheic Serum and Soothing Malassezia Moisturizer. Leave on skin for 1 minute before rinsing to allow biofilm-disrupting ingredients to work.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Shake & Apply

Shake the bottle well. Wet your face with lukewarm water and apply a generous amount of cleanser to your fingertips. Gently massage onto the face in circular motions.

2

Wait 1 Minute

Leave the cleanser on your skin for approximately one minute. This allows the xylitol and active botanicals to penetrate and disrupt the Malassezia biofilm.

3

Rinse & Pat Dry

Rinse thoroughly with warm water and gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with your serum and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have seborrheic dermatitis on the face (flaky, red, itchy patches)
  • You experience fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) and need a safe cleanser
  • Your skin reacts badly to conventional cleansers with oils and fragrances
  • You want a minimalist formula with fewer than 20 ingredients
  • You need a gentle cleanser that also exfoliates flaky skin
  • You're looking for a beard-friendly face wash that addresses seb derm

Consider alternatives if:

  • You need heavy-duty makeup removal (this is not an oil cleanser)
  • You prefer a rich, foaming lather (this is a lightweight gel)
  • You want the cheapest option available (premium pricing at $9.99/oz)
  • You have no fungal skin concerns and just need a basic daily cleanser
  • You're pregnant and want to avoid any salicin/salicylic acid derivatives entirely
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Balances sebum production without stripping. Witch hazel provides astringent action to minimize shine. Ideal for oily, seb derm-prone skin.

Dry Skin
Good

Squalane and glycerin provide hydration, but dry skin types may still need a heavier moisturizer afterward. Non-stripping formula is a plus.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Cleanses oily zones effectively while squalane and aloe keep drier areas comfortable. Great balance for combination skin types.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free and paraben-free with mild surfactants. Witch hazel may mildly tingle on very reactive skin. Patch test recommended.

Acne-Prone / Fungal Acne
Excellent

Purpose-built for Malassezia-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, free from yeast-feeding ingredients. The gold standard for fungal acne cleansing.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2+
Days 1–3

Immediate Soothing & Comfort

Skin feels calmer and less irritated after the first few washes. Itching and tightness begin to subside. The cleanser does not strip skin or cause the post-wash dryness common with medicated washes.

80% noticed reduced itching
Week 1

Visible Flake Reduction

Noticeable decrease in flaking and scaling, especially around the nose, eyebrows, and hairline. Skin tone begins to appear more even. Pores may look tighter thanks to witch hazel.

70% saw fewer flakes
Weeks 2–4

Clearer, Calmer Skin

Seborrheic dermatitis patches significantly reduced. Fungal acne bumps diminish as the biofilm is consistently disrupted. Redness fades and skin texture improves.

65% reported significant improvement
Month 2+

Long-Term Maintenance

With continued daily use, flare-ups become less frequent and less severe. Skin maintains a balanced, healthy appearance. Many users report this becomes a permanent staple in their routine.

85% continued repurchasing
09

Ratings by platform

405+ REVIEWS
Dermazen.com
4.8
Rating
225+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 4 oz bottle runs out quickly for daily AM/PM use
Amazon
4.3
Rating
180+
Reviews
Main complaint: High price per ounce compared to drugstore alternatives
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Specifically formulated for seb derm and fungal acne — not just "sensitive skin" marketing
  • Minimalist 16-ingredient formula with no hidden irritants
  • Unique biofilm-disrupting approach with xylitol
  • Non-stripping: skin feels hydrated after use, not tight or dry
  • Visibly reduces flaking within the first week for many users
  • Fragrance-free and vegan with clean ingredient list
  • Works well for facial hair/beard areas affected by seb derm

Criticized

  • Premium price ($39.95 for 4 oz) — significantly more expensive than drugstore options
  • Small bottle size runs out quickly with twice-daily use (lasts ~3–4 weeks)
  • Requires 1-minute wait time which can feel long in a rushed morning routine
  • Not a strong foaming lather — some users miss the "clean" sensation
  • Witch hazel may cause mild tingling on extremely sensitive skin
  • Does not remove heavy makeup effectively as a standalone cleanser
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
65% Match
Gentle Facial Cleanser
$10.99
Budget Pick

Ultra-gentle, fragrance-free, and fungal acne safe. However, it lacks xylitol (biofilm disruption), willow bark, papaya enzymes, and squalane. It's a basic gentle cleanser without seb derm-targeted actives. 8 oz bottle offers much better value per ounce.

80% Match
Hyaluronic Acid Cleanser
$16.00
Similar Pick

Also designed specifically for Malassezia-prone skin by the creator of Simple Skincare Science. Uses hyaluronic acid as thickener instead of guar gum. Lacks biofilm-disrupting xylitol and botanical extracts, but pH-balanced at 5.5 with gluconolactone (PHA). More affordable per ounce.

60% Match
Renewing SA Cleanser
$14.99
Budget Pick

Contains salicylic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Good for exfoliation and hydration at a great price. However, contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia (not fully fungal acne safe). Better suited for regular acne than seb derm.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Gentle Facial Cleanser
Size 8 fl oz (237 mL)
Price per oz $1.37/oz
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Biofilm Disruption No
Key Actives Glycerin (basic cleanser only)
Fragrance-Free Yes
Ingredient Count 12
Hyaluronic Acid Cleanser
Size 5 fl oz (150 mL)
Price per oz $3.20/oz
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Biofilm Disruption No
Key Actives Hyaluronic Acid, Gluconolactone (PHA)
Fragrance-Free Yes
Ingredient Count 9
Renewing SA Cleanser
Size 8 fl oz (237 mL)
Price per oz $1.87/oz
Fungal Acne Safe No (Contains FA triggers)
Biofilm Disruption No
Key Actives Salicylic Acid, Ceramides, Niacinamide
Fragrance-Free Yes
Ingredient Count 28
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Shake well before each use to ensure ingredients are evenly distributed.

Packaging

Squeeze bottle with flip-top cap (4 fl oz / 118 mL)

Travel Friendly

Yes — 4 fl oz is over the TSA 3.4 oz limit, but you can decant into a travel-size container. The bottle itself fits easily in a toiletry bag.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. This cleanser contains Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, which is a natural source of salicin — a compound the body can convert to salicylic acid. While the concentration is low and this is a wash-off product (minimal skin contact time), many dermatologists recommend avoiding all salicylic acid derivatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. All other ingredients are generally considered safe during pregnancy.

Yes. This cleanser was specifically designed for Malassezia-prone skin. It contains no fermented ingredients, problematic fatty acids (like oleic acid), fatty acid esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The only lipid used is squalane, which has been confirmed safe for fungal acne because yeast cannot metabolize it. Additionally, xylitol actively disrupts the Malassezia biofilm, making this cleanser one of the most targeted fungal acne-safe options available.

Yes, this cleanser is compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Because it contains willow bark extract (a mild natural BHA), be mindful when combining it with other BHA products like salicylic acid serums to avoid over-exfoliation. If you're using strong retinoids or chemical exfoliants, monitor your skin for signs of sensitivity (redness, peeling, stinging) and reduce frequency if needed. A good approach is to use the cleanser twice daily while alternating actives on different evenings.

This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — particularly those dealing with seborrheic dermatitis, fungal acne, or Malassezia-related skin conditions. It also works well for sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, paraben-free formula with gentle surfactants. Dry skin types can use it but may need a richer moisturizer afterward since the cleanser is lightweight and not intensely hydrating on its own.

Most users report reduced itching and irritation within the first 1–3 days. Visible reduction in flaking typically occurs within the first week. Significant improvement in seborrheic dermatitis symptoms and fungal acne bumps is commonly reported between weeks 2–4 of consistent twice-daily use. For long-term maintenance and prevention of flare-ups, continued daily use is recommended.

This cleanser is Step 1 in both your morning and evening routines. Apply to wet skin, massage for 30 seconds, leave on for 1 minute, then rinse with warm water. Follow with your toner, serum (such as Dermazen Calming Seborrheic Serum), moisturizer (such as Dermazen Soothing Malassezia Moisturizer), and sunscreen in the morning. If you double cleanse, use an oil-free micellar water first, then follow with this cleanser.

No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. Squalane (the primary emollient) has a comedogenic rating of 0, glycerin is rated 0, and the other ingredients are not known pore-cloggers. The witch hazel actually helps tighten and minimize pores. This cleanser is a good choice for acne-prone skin concerned about breakouts.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 4 fl oz bottle typically lasts approximately 3–4 weeks with twice-daily use (AM and PM), as a generous amount is recommended per application. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and always shake before use for best results. Benzyl alcohol serves as the preservative to maintain product integrity.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Dermazen Purifying Facial Cleanser stands out as one of the most targeted and thoughtfully formulated cleansers for seborrheic dermatitis and fungal acne. Its unique biofilm-disrupting approach with xylitol, combined with malassezia-safe squalane and gentle botanical exfoliants, addresses the root cause of flare-ups rather than just treating symptoms. The minimalist 16-ingredient formula inspires confidence for sensitive skin. The main drawback is the premium price point ($39.95 for 4 oz), which makes it significantly more expensive per ounce than drugstore alternatives. However, for those who have tried everything else without success, this specialized cleanser delivers real results and has earned a devoted following. Best suited for people with confirmed seb derm or fungal acne who prioritize targeted treatment over value pricing.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

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lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
33% 16% 50%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 12 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
4 B
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
1 Unknown
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
1 A
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Sea Cucumber Extract
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS