Rough and Bumpy Ceramides Cleanser
Rough and Bumpy Ceramides Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle exfoliating gel cleanser by The Raw. formulated with 5 essential ceramides, 0.5% salicylic acid, and lactic acid to smooth rough and bumpy skin texture while protecting your skin barrier. Enriched with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and vitamin B5 for a clean, hydrated, and healthy-looking complexion.
5 Essential Ceramides Complex
Contains Ceramide EOP, NS, NP, AS, and AP to reinforce your skin barrier while cleansing, preventing moisture loss and irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5 Essential Ceramides Complex
Contains Ceramide EOP, NS, NP, AS, and AP to reinforce your skin barrier while cleansing, preventing moisture loss and irritation.
Gentle Dual-Acid Exfoliation
Low-dose 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Lactic Acid (AHA) work together to dissolve dead skin cells, unclog pores, and smooth bumpy texture without stripping moisture.
Barrier-Protecting Hydration
Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), and Glycerin attract and lock in moisture so your skin feels soft and hydrated after every wash.
7 Botanical Antioxidant Extracts
Centella Asiatica, Green Tea, Licorice Root, Chamomile, Japanese Knotweed, Chinese Skullcap, and Rosemary provide antioxidant and soothing benefits.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA). While this is a low concentration in a rinse-off product, some healthcare providers advise caution with salicylic acid during pregnancy. The brand states it is suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate-related emulsifiers, Glyceryl Stearate (a fatty acid ester), and Hydrogenated Lecithin which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rated 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. Formula is designed to be non-pore-clogging, confirmed by the brand. Free from heavy oils and silicones that typically contribute to clogged pores.
No added fragrances, perfumes, or essential oils used as fragrance agents. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Does not contain oils, silicones, or parabens. Lightweight gel formula is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Contains Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone (MI/MCI), which are known contact allergens. While deemed safe at regulated concentrations in rinse-off products, those with sensitive or allergy-prone skin should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTS5 Ceramides Complex (EOP, NS, NP, AS, AP)Proven
A full spectrum of five essential ceramides that mimic the lipids naturally found in your skin's outer layer. Ceramides make up roughly 50% of the lipids in the stratum corneum and are critical for maintaining barrier integrity, hydration, and protection against environmental stressors.
- Ceramide EOP (Ceramide 1): Links the lipid layers together for overall barrier structure and cohesion.
- Ceramide NS (Ceramide 2): The most abundant ceramide in human skin; tightly packs lipids to reduce transepidermal water loss.
- Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3): Known for strong moisture-binding properties, particularly beneficial for dry and dehydrated skin.
- Ceramide AS (Ceramides 4/5): Supports the lamellar structure of the skin barrier for better resilience.
- Ceramide AP (Ceramide 6): Aids in natural skin cell turnover and barrier repair processes.
Salicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, dead skin cells, and debris. At 0.5%, it provides gentle yet effective exfoliation suitable for daily use without over-stripping the skin.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the intercellular "glue" holding dead skin cells together inside pores, preventing clogging.
- FDA Recognized: Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as effective over-the-counter topical acne treatments.
- Anti-inflammatory: Structurally related to aspirin, providing mild soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 1%Proven
A well-researched multitasking ingredient that helps strengthen the skin barrier by boosting ceramide synthesis, brightens uneven skin tone, and regulates sebum production. At 1%, it works synergistically with the ceramide complex without risk of irritation.
- Barrier Support: Stimulates the skin's own production of ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol for a stronger barrier.
- Sebum Control: Helps regulate oil production, reducing shine and minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to help fade dark spots and even out skin tone over time.
Hyaluronic AcidProven
A powerful humectant naturally found in the skin that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. In this cleanser, it helps counterbalance the potential drying effects of the exfoliating acids, leaving skin plump and hydrated after rinsing.
- Hydration: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the surface hydrated.
- Skin Barrier: Supports the skin's natural moisture barrier, reducing tightness and dryness post-cleanse.
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
A time-honored botanical also known as "cica" or Gotu Kola, revered for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Hydrolyzed form used in this product for enhanced skin penetration and soothing benefits.
- Active Compounds: Contains asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid that promote collagen synthesis and wound healing.
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation, making it ideal for use alongside exfoliating acids.
Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis)Proven
Rich in polyphenols (especially EGCG), green tea is one of the most well-studied botanical antioxidants in skincare. Helps neutralize free radical damage, soothe inflammation, and provide mild antibacterial benefits.
- Antioxidant: EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is a potent free radical scavenger that protects skin cells from oxidative stress.
- Sebum Regulation: Studies suggest green tea polyphenols can help reduce sebum production in oily skin.
Licorice Root Extract & Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateProven
Dual licorice-derived ingredients providing potent anti-inflammatory and brightening effects. Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract contains glabridin which inhibits tyrosinase for brightening, while Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate soothes and calms irritated skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Glycyrrhizin and its derivatives are well-documented for reducing skin redness and irritation.
- Brightening: Glabridin helps inhibit melanin production, gradually fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)Proven
A provitamin that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, enhancing hydration, accelerating skin repair, and reducing inflammation. Works as both a humectant and emollient to keep skin soft and supple after cleansing.
- Wound Healing: Promotes fibroblast proliferation and accelerates the skin's natural repair processes.
- Deep Hydration: Penetrates into deeper skin layers and binds water for long-lasting moisture.
Lactic Acid (AHA)Proven
An alpha hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin's surface while simultaneously attracting moisture. Working in tandem with salicylic acid, it addresses both surface-level roughness and deeper pore congestion.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface for smoother, brighter skin.
- Humectant Properties: Unlike most AHAs, lactic acid also functions as a moisturizer, drawing water into the skin.
Chamomile Extract (Chamomilla Recutita)Promising
Contains bisabolol and chamazulene, both known for their anti-inflammatory and skin-calming properties. Helps reduce redness and irritation that may occur from exfoliating acids.
- Soothing: Bisabolol has been shown to calm irritated and sensitive skin, reducing redness and discomfort.
- Antioxidant: Provides additional free radical protection alongside the other botanical extracts in this formula.
CholesterolProven
A naturally occurring skin lipid that makes up approximately 25% of the stratum corneum's lipid matrix. Combined with ceramides and fatty acids, it completes the trio of essential lipids needed for optimal barrier function.
- Barrier Repair: Essential for forming a proper lamellar lipid structure in the skin barrier alongside ceramides.
- Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin surface while preventing transepidermal water loss.
Japanese Knotweed Extract (Polygonum Cuspidatum)Promising
A rich natural source of resveratrol, one of the most potent antioxidants found in nature. Provides significant protection against free radical damage and environmental stressors while calming inflammation.
- Resveratrol Source: Contains high concentrations of trans-resveratrol with well-documented antioxidant and anti-aging properties.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps modulate inflammatory pathways, reducing redness and irritation in the skin.
Chinese Skullcap Extract (Scutellaria Baicalensis)Promising
Contains baicalin and baicalein, flavonoids with strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Helps protect the skin from environmental damage while providing mild antibacterial action against acne-causing bacteria.
- Antimicrobial: Exhibits activity against certain bacteria that contribute to acne and skin infections.
- UV Protection Support: Baicalin has been studied for its ability to help protect skin cells from UV-induced damage.
Rosemary Leaf Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis)Promising
A botanical powerhouse containing rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, and carnosol with antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits. Helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and supports a cleaner complexion.
- Antioxidant: Rosmarinic acid is a potent polyphenol that helps neutralize free radicals on the skin's surface.
- Preservative Support: Natural antimicrobial properties help extend product stability alongside synthetic preservatives.
Alpha-Glucan OligosaccharidePromising
A prebiotic ingredient derived from natural sugars that supports the skin's beneficial microbiome. Helps promote the growth of good bacteria on the skin while discouraging harmful microorganisms, contributing to a healthier skin ecosystem.
- Prebiotic: Selectively feeds beneficial skin bacteria (Lactobacilli) while inhibiting pathogenic microorganisms.
- Barrier Support: A balanced microbiome contributes to better barrier function and reduced inflammation.
37 ingredients
Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Propylene Glycol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Niacinamide 1%, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NS, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Hydrolyzed Centella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, 1,2-Butanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Cholesterol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glyceryl Stearate, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Salicylic Acid 0.5%, Lactic Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second step in a double-cleansing routine (PM) or as your sole cleanser (AM). Best used 1-2x daily. Pair with a gentle, non-active cleanser for alternate use if skin feels sensitive.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water generously across your face and neck. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils and compromise your skin barrier.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a coin-sized amount onto your palms. Apply to wet skin and massage in gentle, circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on rough or bumpy areas like the chin, forehead, and nose.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse well with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. Pat dry gently with a clean towel — do not rub.
Follow Up
Immediately follow with your toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp. Always apply sunscreen in the morning, as exfoliating acids can increase sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have rough, bumpy, or uneven skin texture
- You struggle with tiny bumps (closed comedones) or mild acne
- You want gentle exfoliation without drying out your skin
- You need a barrier-strengthening cleanser with ceramides
- You have oily skin with excess sebum and clogged pores
- You prefer fragrance-free, pharmacist-formulated products
- You want an affordable cleanser with premium active ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — formula contains triggers
- You have known allergies to MI/MCI preservatives
- You need a strong acne-fighting cleanser (consider the 2% SA Acne version instead)
- You have extremely dry, compromised skin that cannot tolerate any exfoliation
- You are looking for a sulfate-free cleanser (contains SLES)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBHA effectively dissolves excess sebum inside pores. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production. Watery gel texture rinses clean without residue or greasiness.
Balances oily T-zone while ceramides and hyaluronic acid protect drier cheek areas. Gentle enough for daily use across different face zones.
Non-comedogenic formula with BHA to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Ceramides repair barrier damage often caused by harsh acne treatments.
Low-dose actives and soothing botanicals make this gentler than most BHA cleansers. However, MI/MCI preservatives may trigger reactions in very sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Patch test first.
Ceramides and hyaluronic acid provide hydration, but SLES and exfoliating acids may feel slightly stripping on very dry skin. Consider the Hydrating Ceramides Cleanser version instead, or limit use to 2-3 times per week.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Smoothness & Clarity
Skin feels noticeably softer and cleaner after the very first wash. The watery gel texture rinses off completely, leaving no tight or stripped feeling. Many users report their skin feeling "licin" (smooth) from day one.
85% noticedTexture Improvement & Possible Purging
Rough patches and bumpy areas begin to smooth out as BHA and lactic acid dissolve built-up dead skin. Some users may experience mild purging (small breakouts) as clogged pores clear — this is temporary and a sign the product is working.
70% noticedVisible Reduction in Bumps & Oiliness
Tiny bumps (closed comedones) significantly reduce. Excess oil production starts to normalize. Skin barrier feels stronger thanks to the ceramide complex. Skin tone appears more even and less dull.
75% noticedClear, Healthy, Barrier-Strengthened Skin
Consistent use delivers visibly smoother, clearer skin with fewer breakouts. The full ceramide complex has reinforced the skin barrier, reducing sensitivity and moisture loss. Pores appear refined and skin looks healthier overall.
80% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Noticeably smoother skin texture within the first week of use
- 5 ceramides protect and strengthen barrier while exfoliating
- Gentle enough for daily use — doesn't strip or dry out skin
- Fragrance-free, halal certified, pharmacist formulated
- Affordable pricing for such a comprehensive ingredient list
- Watery gel texture feels lightweight and rinses off cleanly
- Effectively controls excess oil and reduces tiny bumps
- Users consistently repurchase — many on their 3rd to 5th bottle
Criticized
- Contains MI/MCI preservatives — potential allergens for sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- Contains SLES — may be too stripping for very dry skin types
- Initial purging period (1-2 weeks) can be discouraging for new users
- Limited international availability — primarily sold in Malaysia
- Only comes in 80g and 150g sizes — no larger economy option
- Salicylic acid (even at 0.5%) requires caution during pregnancy
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe closest alternative with 3 ceramides (NP, AP, EOP), salicylic acid, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Uses gentler sulfate-free surfactants. However, lacks the full 5-ceramide complex, botanical antioxidants, lactic acid, and panthenol found in The Raw formula.
A popular K-beauty BHA cleanser with salicylic acid and tea tree oil. Gentler soap-based formula but lacks ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and the extensive botanical blend. Better for minimal routines focused purely on acne.
Affordable BHA cleanser with zinc for oil control. Straightforward formula focused on acne-fighting but completely lacks ceramides, hyaluronic acid, botanical extracts, and the barrier-repair approach that makes The Raw unique.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to preserve the active ingredients.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap for hygienic dispensing and easy product control
Yes — the 80g size is compact and under 100ml, making it carry-on compliant for air travel
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which some healthcare providers advise avoiding during pregnancy. However, the brand specifically markets this product as "Suitable for mums — Pregnant, Breastfeeding & TTC." Since salicylic acid is present at a low concentration in a rinse-off product (meaning minimal skin absorption), the risk is generally considered low. That said, always consult your doctor or midwife before using any product containing salicylic acid during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as individual medical advice supersedes general guidelines.
No, this cleanser is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Glyceryl Stearate (a fatty acid ester) and Hydrogenated Lecithin, which are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast — the fungus responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe BHA cleanser instead, or consult a dermatologist for alternatives.
Since this cleanser already contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Lactic Acid (AHA), be cautious about layering additional exfoliating acids immediately after. You can safely use retinol or vitamin C serums in your routine, but apply them after fully rinsing and drying your face. If you are new to actives, introduce them one at a time to avoid over-exfoliation. On nights when you use a strong retinol, you may want to switch to a gentler, non-active cleanser to prevent irritation.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling excess oil, smoothing rough texture, and unclogging pores. It is also suitable for sensitive skin in most cases due to the low concentration of actives and soothing ingredients, though those with very reactive skin should patch test first. Dry skin types can use it 2-3 times per week rather than daily, and should follow with a rich moisturizer.
Most users report feeling smoother, softer skin from the very first wash. Visible improvements in rough texture and tiny bumps typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Some users experience mild purging (small breakouts) during this initial period as clogged pores clear — this is normal and temporary. For full results including reduced oiliness, clearer pores, and a strengthened skin barrier, allow 4-8 weeks of regular use.
Use this as your water-based cleanser — the second step in a double-cleansing routine (after an oil or balm cleanser), or as your sole cleanser in the morning. It goes at the very beginning of your routine, before toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. For best results, use it in your evening routine for deeper cleansing, and optionally pair it with a gentler non-active cleanser for morning use.
No. This cleanser is rated 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale and is officially described by the brand as non-comedogenic. In fact, the BHA and AHA in the formula actively work to unclog pores and prevent comedone formation. It is free from heavy oils, silicones, and other pore-clogging ingredients. However, individual skin responses can vary, so monitor your skin during the first few weeks of use.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly sealed. The 150g tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, or 4-5 months if used once daily. The product contains MI/MCI preservatives to maintain stability throughout the usage period.
Verdict: The Raw. Rough & Bumpy Ceramides Cleanser is an impressively formulated Malaysian cleanser that punches well above its price point. The combination of 5 ceramides, gentle dual-acid exfoliation (BHA + AHA), niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and 7 botanical extracts makes it one of the most ingredient-dense cleansers in its category. It excels at smoothing rough texture, controlling oiliness, and strengthening the skin barrier — all in a single wash step. The pharmacist-formulated approach is evident in the thoughtful balance between exfoliation and barrier protection. Deductions come from the inclusion of MI/MCI preservatives (a known allergen concern), the fact that it is not fungal acne safe, and limited international availability. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types seeking an affordable, effective, and barrier-friendly exfoliating cleanser, this is an outstanding choice.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Cleansing, Foaming, Hydrotrope, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
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