Schuimende Gezichtsreiniger
Schuimende Gezichtsreiniger
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-formulated foaming cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and 2% Glycolic Acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates, unclogs pores, and removes excess sebum — while 10% Glycerin keeps your skin hydrated and protected. Designed for acne-prone, oily, and combination skin without stripping your moisture barrier.
Dual Acid Exfoliation (AHA + BHA)
Glycolic acid exfoliates the skin surface while salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs — a powerful combination for fighting acne and blackheads.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Acid Exfoliation (AHA + BHA)
Glycolic acid exfoliates the skin surface while salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs — a powerful combination for fighting acne and blackheads.
10% Glycerin Hydration
A high concentration of glycerin keeps the skin moisturized during cleansing, preventing the tight, dry feeling common with acid-based cleansers.
Ultra-Gentle Surfactant
Uses Coco-Glucoside, a plant-derived sugar surfactant known for its extreme mildness — suitable even for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Dermatologist-Developed Formula
Created by Dutch dermatologist Drs. Marjolein Leenarts with only 7 purposeful ingredients — no unnecessary fillers, fragrances, or irritants.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper limit considered acceptable during pregnancy. As a wash-off product with short skin contact time, ACOG considers topical salicylic acid up to 2% generally safe. However, consult your OB-GYN before use.
Topical salicylic acid at 2% in a rinse-off cleanser has minimal systemic absorption. LactMed (NIH) considers it safe during breastfeeding. Avoid contact with areas your baby touches.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. All 7 ingredients are fungal-acne safe. Salicylic acid may even help manage fungal acne symptoms.
None of the ingredients have comedogenic potential. Glycerin, ethoxydiglycol, and coco-glucoside all rate 0 on the comedogenicity scale.
Free from common allergens, fragrances, essential oils, and dyes. Does not contain lanolin or wool alcohols. Gluten-free formula.
Salicylic acid is chemically related to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). If you have an aspirin allergy, perform a patch test first as cross-reactivity is possible.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (BHA) 2%Proven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs and dead skin cells. The gold standard for treating acne, blackheads, and clogged pores.
- Mechanism: Penetrates into sebaceous glands to dissolve keratin plugs and reduce sebum buildup
- FDA Status: Recognized by the U.S. FDA as an OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2% concentration
- Anti-Inflammatory: Structurally similar to aspirin, providing soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits
Glycolic Acid (AHA) 2%Proven
The smallest alpha hydroxy acid, renowned for its superior ability to exfoliate the skin surface. Works on the outermost layer to remove dead skin cells and improve texture.
- Exfoliation: Breaks down bonds between dead skin cells (keratolytic action) for smoother skin
- Complementary to BHA: Works on the skin surface while salicylic acid works within the pore — together they provide multi-level exfoliation
- Optimal pH: Most effective between pH 3–5; this product's pH of 4.2 is ideal for glycolic acid activity
Glycerin 10%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in the skin. At 10%, it provides significant hydration and supports the skin barrier — preventing the dryness often associated with acid cleansers.
- Skin-Identical: Already present in your skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF)
- Research: Effective from 3% for moisturization, with increased benefits at higher concentrations up to 20–40%
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state and protects against irritation
Coco-Glucoside CleanserGentle
A plant-derived surfactant made from glucose and coconut oil. Known as one of the mildest cleansing agents available, making it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin.
- Origin: Derived from coconut oil and fruit sugars — a non-ionic, biodegradable surfactant
- Mildness: Classified as gentle enough for baby products and eye-area formulations
- No Stripping: Cleans without disrupting the skin's natural lipid layer
Ethoxydiglycol SolventSupporting
A synthetic solvent and penetration enhancer that helps dissolve and distribute the active acids evenly across the skin. Also provides mild moisturizing properties.
- Function: Enhances the solubility and delivery of glycolic acid and salicylic acid
- Safety: Comedogenic rating: 0. Irritancy rating: 0. Well-tolerated by most skin types
7 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin (10%), Ethoxydiglycol, Coco-Glucoside, Glycolic Acid (2%), Salicylic Acid (2%), Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first step, morning and/or evening. Pair with the Drs Leenarts Salicylic Acid 2% Gel and Dagcrème SPF25 for the complete acne-fighting routine.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can dry out and irritate your skin.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a small amount onto your hands and gently massage onto your face in circular motions. Use relatively little water and more cleanser for best results.
Avoid the Eye Area
Keep the product away from your eyes. The low pH and acid content can cause stinging if it enters the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with plenty of lukewarm water. Pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel — do not rub.
Follow Up
Apply your serum or moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF sunscreen — AHA increases photosensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads, clogged pores, or breakouts
- You want a cleanser with active exfoliating ingredients
- You prefer a minimalist, short ingredient list
- You need a fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula
- You want a dermatologist-developed product
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin that needs a cream-based cleanser
- You are already using strong retinoids and multiple acid products
- You have an aspirin allergy (risk of cross-reactivity with salicylic acid)
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid salicylic acid entirely
- You want a cleanser that removes heavy or waterproof makeup
- You have a severely compromised skin barrier
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid controls oil production while glycolic acid keeps pores clear. Won't leave a greasy residue.
The 10% glycerin ensures dry areas stay hydrated while acids tackle the oily T-zone. Well-balanced formula for combo skin.
Dual AHA/BHA action targets both surface blemishes and deep pore congestion. Non-comedogenic rating of 0. Fungal acne safe.
Gentle coco-glucoside surfactant and fragrance-free formula minimize irritation. Start with once daily and build tolerance. Patch test recommended.
The 10% glycerin helps, but acids may be too drying for very dry skin. Consider the regular Drs Leenarts Gezichtsreiniger instead, or follow with a rich moisturizer.
Results timeline
MONTHS 2–3+Initial Cleansing & Skin Adjustment
Skin feels cleaner and less oily immediately after use. Mild tingling is normal as your skin adjusts to the acids. Some users may experience a minor purging phase with small breakouts.
70% noticed cleaner-feeling skinReduced Blackheads & Fewer Breakouts
Salicylic acid begins to clear clogged pores from the inside. Blackheads and whiteheads diminish noticeably. Skin texture starts to feel smoother as glycolic acid accelerates cell turnover.
65% noticed fewer blackheadsSmoother Texture & Clearer Complexion
Consistent dual-acid exfoliation reveals brighter, more even skin. Pore appearance is reduced. Breakout frequency decreases significantly for most users.
75% noticed improved skin clarityLong-Term Maintenance & Prevention
Ongoing use helps maintain clear pores and prevent new breakouts. Skin maintains a balanced, healthy appearance. Best results when combined with the full Drs Leenarts acne line.
80% reported sustained improvementRatings by platform
350+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Minimalist formula — only 7 ingredients, all with a clear purpose
- Effective dual AHA/BHA exfoliation at optimal pH (4.2)
- 10% glycerin prevents dryness and tightness after cleansing
- Developed by a real dermatologist, not a celebrity brand
- Completely fragrance-free and alcohol-free
- Fungal acne safe — clean ingredient list
- Vegan, cruelty-free, bioplastic packaging
- Available at major Dutch drugstores (Kruidvat, Etos, Trekpleister)
Criticized
- Small bottle (100ml) at €14.99–15.49 — pricey per ml
- Limited international availability — primarily a Dutch brand
- Minimal foam production disappoints some users expecting a traditional foaming wash
- Not suitable as a standalone makeup remover
- May cause initial purging in some acne-prone users
- No larger bottle size option available
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains salicylic acid with added ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Larger bottle (236ml) at a lower price per ml. Lacks glycolic acid so provides BHA-only exfoliation. Higher pH than Dr Leenarts.
Uses BHA (betaine salicylate) at a lower concentration and tea tree oil. Larger 150ml size. No AHA component and lower exfoliating strength. Good for daily gentle cleansing but less effective for active acne.
Also uses coco-glucoside as a gentle surfactant. No active acids (AHA/BHA) included, so much milder but also less effective for treating acne. Good budget gentle cleanser without the exfoliating benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place with the cap closed. Keep out of reach of young children.
Pump bottle made from bioplastic (sugarcane-derived). No outer box to reduce waste.
Yes — 100ml bottle is within airline carry-on liquid limits
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper threshold considered acceptable during pregnancy by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Because it is a wash-off product with short skin contact time, systemic absorption is minimal. However, exercise caution and consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, the NIH's LactMed database considers topical salicylic acid safe as it is unlikely to be absorbed or appear in breastmilk. Avoid applying to areas that come in contact with your baby.
Yes, this cleanser is fungal acne safe. Its minimal 7-ingredient formula contains no ferments, fatty acids (like oleic or stearic acid), esters, polysorbates, or other ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. Additionally, salicylic acid has mild antifungal properties that may help manage fungal acne symptoms. This is one of the cleanest options available for those dealing with malassezia folliculitis.
Yes, but with care. This cleanser already contains AHA (glycolic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid), so layering additional acid exfoliants immediately after may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. If using retinol at night, this cleanser can be used beforehand — but introduce gradually. Vitamin C serums are generally fine to use after this cleanser in your morning routine. If you are on prescription isotretinoin or strong retinoids, this cleanser can still be used but switch to the milder Drs Leenarts Gezichtsreiniger if dryness occurs.
This cleanser is primarily designed for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The dual AHA/BHA formula targets excess sebum, clogged pores, and blemishes. However, thanks to the gentle coco-glucoside surfactant and 10% glycerin, it can also be tolerated by sensitive skin types. Those with very dry skin may find it slightly drying and should consider the regular Drs Leenarts Gezichtsreiniger, which lacks the acid exfoliants.
Most users report cleaner-feeling skin from the first use. Visible reduction in blackheads and breakouts typically becomes noticeable within 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use. Significant improvement in overall skin texture and clarity usually takes 4–8 weeks. For best results, use once or twice daily and combine with the other products from the Drs Leenarts oily/acne-prone skin line.
This cleanser is always your first step. Use it on damp skin morning and/or evening. After rinsing, follow with your toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). For the recommended Drs Leenarts routine: Schuimende Gezichtsreiniger, then Salicylzuur 2% Gel, then Dagcrème SPF25 (oily/acne skin), and the Aanstiplotion for spot-treating active breakouts.
No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. None of its 7 ingredients have any comedogenic potential. In fact, the formula actively works to unclog pores — salicylic acid dissolves sebum inside pores while glycolic acid removes dead skin cells from the surface. This is one of the most pore-friendly cleansers available.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place with the pump cap closed. The 100ml bottle typically lasts 4–8 weeks with once or twice daily use, depending on how much product you dispense per wash. It is travel-friendly as the 100ml size complies with airline carry-on liquid restrictions.
Verdict: The Drs Leenarts Schuimende Gezichtsreiniger is a thoughtfully formulated, minimalist foaming cleanser that delivers real results for acne-prone and oily skin. The combination of 2% salicylic acid and 2% glycolic acid at an optimized pH of 4.2 provides effective dual exfoliation, while 10% glycerin prevents the dryness common with acid cleansers. With only 7 clean ingredients, it is fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and free from fragrance, alcohol, and common irritants. The main drawback is the small 100ml bottle size relative to the price. Ideal for anyone wanting a dermatologist-developed, no-nonsense cleanser that prioritizes efficacy and skin safety over marketing.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|







