Rise and Defend
Rise and Defend
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, sulfate-free gel-to-water face wash powered by kombucha ferment, niacinamide, and sodium hyaluronate. Designed to remove impurities while keeping skin soft, hydrated, and glowing — perfect for a stress-free morning or evening cleanse.
Kombucha-Powered Cleansing
Fermented black tea extract rich in B vitamins and organic acids to help calm, brighten, and revitalize dull, stressed skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKombucha-Powered Cleansing
Fermented black tea extract rich in B vitamins and organic acids to help calm, brighten, and revitalize dull, stressed skin.
Niacinamide Brightening
Vitamin B3 helps even out skin tone, minimize the appearance of pores, and strengthen the skin barrier while you cleanse.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate draws moisture into the skin, leaving it plump and hydrated rather than tight and stripped after washing.
Gentle, Sulfate-Free Formula
Uses Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate as a mild, non-stripping surfactant, making it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment and Yeast Ferment Extract — both fermented ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne flare-ups.
No heavy oils, waxes, or comedogenic ingredients. Very unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin (except fungal acne).
Rated LOW HAZARD by the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database with fair data availability.
100% vegan formula with PETA-approved cruelty-free certification. No animal-derived ingredients or animal testing.
Fragrance-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, and dermatologically tested. Gentle enough for daily use on reactive skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSKombucha Ferment (Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment) ~3-5%Promising
A fermented black tea extract (kombucha) that is rich in organic acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants. Helps to calm stressed skin, improve radiance, and support the skin's natural microbiome balance.
- Benefit: Contains glucuronic acid and polyphenols from black tea fermentation that provide antioxidant protection.
- Skin Effect: Helps brighten dull complexions and reduce the appearance of fatigue.
- Research: Fermented tea extracts have been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2-3%Proven
A well-researched, multi-benefit active that brightens skin tone, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps regulate sebum production. Especially effective for evening out uneven skin tone and reducing visible pores.
- Clinical Evidence: Multiple studies confirm niacinamide improves skin barrier function, reduces hyperpigmentation, and decreases sebum production.
- Concentration: Effective at concentrations as low as 2%, though this is a rinse-off cleanser so contact time is brief.
- Compatibility: Plays well with virtually all other active ingredients including retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C.
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates the skin more effectively than standard HA. Attracts and retains moisture, keeping skin plump and hydrated even after cleansing.
- Mechanism: Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, drawing moisture from the environment into the skin.
- Benefit: Prevents the tight, dry feeling commonly experienced after face washing.
- Clinical Data: Extensively studied and proven to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and smoothness.
Allantoin <1%Proven
A gentle, well-tolerated soothing agent that calms irritation, promotes skin healing, and helps soften the skin. Commonly found in products for sensitive and reactive skin.
- Source: Naturally derived from the comfrey plant.
- Benefit: Anti-irritant and skin-protectant properties, helps encourage cell regeneration.
Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate ~3-5%Proven
A gentle, plant-derived surfactant (cleansing agent) that effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup traces without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. Much milder than traditional sulfate surfactants like SLS/SLES.
- Type: Non-ionic surfactant — one of the gentlest cleansing agent categories available.
- Benefit: Provides effective cleansing without disrupting the skin's lipid barrier or pH balance.
Yeast Ferment Extract <1%Promising
A fermented yeast extract rich in amino acids, peptides, vitamins, and minerals. Helps nourish the skin, support cell turnover, and improve overall skin vitality and luminosity.
- Benefit: Provides broad-spectrum nourishment with amino acids and trace minerals.
- Skin Effect: May help improve skin radiance and support barrier function.
17 ingredients
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment, Niacinamide, Carbomer, Arginine, Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Yeast Ferment Extract, Allantoin, Betaine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dextrin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your primary cleanser morning and evening. For heavy makeup, consider double cleansing with an oil or balm cleanser first, then follow with Rise & Defend as your second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face to prep the skin. The gel-to-water formula activates best on damp skin.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a small amount onto fingertips and gently massage over the face in circular motions for 30–60 seconds to dissolve dirt, oil, and makeup traces.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry gently with a clean towel — do not rub. Follow immediately with your toner or serum while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, non-stripping daily cleanser
- Your skin looks dull, tired, or stressed
- You prefer fragrance-free, sulfate-free formulas
- You're a skincare beginner looking for an easy first cleanser
- You want affordable, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You have combination or oily skin that needs balancing
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (contains fermented ingredients)
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (this is a gentle wash)
- You prefer a rich, foaming lather
- You have very dry skin and need a cream or oil-based cleanser
- You want a larger bottle size for better value per ml
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGel-to-water texture feels refreshing without over-stripping. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production for a balanced, matte finish.
Cleanses oily zones effectively while hyaluronic acid prevents drier areas from feeling tight or dehydrated. A perfect balancing act.
An ideal everyday cleanser that maintains skin's natural balance. Leaves a clean, dewy finish without any tightness.
Fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and dermatologically tested. Allantoin and betaine help soothe reactive skin. Patch test recommended for very sensitive types.
Hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture, but the lightweight gel texture may not provide enough hydration for very dry skin. Follow with a rich moisturizer.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and niacinamide support make it suitable for acne-prone skin. However, not safe for fungal acne due to fermented ingredients.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Cleansing & Softness
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated right after the first wash. No tightness or dryness. Noticeable dewy finish.
95% noticed immediatelyImproved Skin Texture
Skin begins to feel smoother and more balanced. Reduced morning puffiness and dullness. Skin starts looking more refreshed and revitalized overall.
70% noticed within 2 weeksBrighter, More Even Complexion
Niacinamide's brightening effects become more apparent. Skin tone appears more even, pores look less visible, and the overall complexion has a healthy glow.
60% noticed within 4 weeksSustained Skin Health
With consistent daily use, skin barrier feels strengthened and resilient. Fewer stress-related breakouts. Skin maintains a balanced, calm, and hydrated state.
50% noticed long-term improvementRatings by platform
110+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-gentle, sulfate-free formula that never strips or dries out skin
- Unique kombucha ferment delivers antioxidants during cleansing
- Fragrance-free — suitable for sensitive and reactive skin
- Affordable price point (under $14) with quality ingredients
- 100% vegan, cruelty-free, PETA-approved — ethical and transparent brand
- Short, clean ingredient list with only 17 ingredients
- Leaves skin feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed post-wash
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Small bottle size (100ml) may run out quickly with daily use
- Not fungal acne safe due to fermented ingredients
- Too gentle for removing heavy or waterproof makeup alone
- Limited availability — mainly Walmart (US) and Boots (UK)
- Gel-to-water texture may feel unfamiliar to foam cleanser fans
- Niacinamide and HA contact time is brief in a rinse-off product
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similarly gentle, fragrance-free gel cleanser with vitamin B5 and vitamin E. Larger size (150ml) at a lower price, but lacks kombucha ferment and niacinamide. Great budget alternative for sensitive skin.
Gel cleanser with hyaluronic acid that leaves skin hydrated. Larger bottle (230ml) for better value per ml. No kombucha or niacinamide, and contains fragrance, but similar hydrating cleansing concept.
Budget-friendly gel cleanser with zinc and allantoin. More focused on acne treatment with salicylic acid (not pregnancy safe). Different approach but similar gentle, transparent brand philosophy.
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 the cap tightly closed between uses to maintain product integrity.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Outer cardboard box is FSC-certified and printed with soy-based inks.
Yes — 100ml size is within TSA and airline carry-on liquid limits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Rise and Defend contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All 17 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy. However, as with any skincare product, it's always wise to consult with your OB-GYN or midwife if you have specific concerns.
No. Rise and Defend contains two fermented ingredients — Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment (kombucha) and Yeast Ferment Extract — that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast on the skin. If you are prone to fungal acne, this cleanser is not recommended. Consider a fungal acne-safe alternative like CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser instead.
Yes. Rise and Defend is a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that pairs well with virtually all active ingredients. Niacinamide is compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Since it's a rinse-off product, there is no risk of ingredient interactions. Simply cleanse with Rise and Defend first, then apply your active treatments afterwards.
Rise and Defend is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types. Its lightweight gel-to-water texture provides effective cleansing without stripping moisture. It also works well for sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, sulfate-free formula. Those with very dry skin may find it insufficient on its own and should follow with a hydrating moisturizer.
You'll notice softer, cleaner, and more hydrated skin immediately after the first use. Improved skin texture and reduced dullness typically become noticeable within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. Niacinamide's brightening and pore-refining effects become more apparent after 3–4 weeks of regular use.
Rise and Defend is your cleanser — it should be used as the first (or second, if double cleansing) step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. After cleansing, follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). For heavy makeup days, use an oil or balm cleanser first, then follow with Rise and Defend.
No. Rise and Defend has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The formula contains no heavy oils, waxes, or known pore-clogging ingredients. Niacinamide may even help minimize the appearance of enlarged pores over time. It is suitable for acne-prone skin (with the exception of fungal acne).
Rise and Defend has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. The 100ml tube typically lasts 6–8 weeks with twice-daily use, so you'll likely use it up well before the PAO expires. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed.
Verdict: Skin Proud Rise and Defend is a solid, affordable, and gentle daily cleanser that punches above its price point. The kombucha ferment, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid combination delivers a refreshing, hydrating cleanse that leaves skin feeling soft and revitalized — not tight or stripped. It's an excellent choice for skincare beginners, those with oily or combination skin, and anyone seeking a vegan, fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe option. The main drawbacks are its small 100ml size (which runs out quickly) and the fact that fermented ingredients make it unsuitable for fungal acne sufferers. If you're looking for an easy, no-fuss cleanser at a budget-friendly price from an ethical, transparent brand, Rise and Defend is well worth trying.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment
Skin Conditioning
|
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|