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Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream

Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream

Product Description

A rich, creamy natural face cleanser formulated with soap bark to deeply remove dirt, oil and makeup while chamomile, aloe and echinacea soothe and soften skin. Features a cooling menthol finish that leaves skin refreshed and naturally healthy-looking. 98.9% natural origin, gentle enough for daily use.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ American Natural Beauty Β· Made in United States
βœ” 98.9% Natural Origin βœ” Paraben-Free βœ” Phthalate-Free βœ” Petrolatum-Free βœ” SLS-Free βœ” Dermatologist Recommended Brand βœ” Daily Use βœ” Recyclable via TerraCycle
Pregnancy Safe
Caution ⚠️
Fungal Acne Safe
No βœ—
Comedogenic Rating
3/5
πŸ“
Size
6 oz / 170g
πŸ’§
Type
Cream Cleanser
🌿
Natural
98.9%
🧴
pH
~6.0–7.0
🏷️
Price
~$10–$12

✨ Texture & Feel

πŸ’§
Consistency
Rich cream
πŸ‘ƒ
Scent
Herbal menthol
⏱️
Absorption
Rinse-off
🎯
Finish
Clean & cool
🌳

Natural Soap Bark Cleansing

Quillaja saponaria bark extract acts as a natural surfactant that gently lifts dirt, oil and makeup without harsh synthetic detergents.

🌼

Chamomile & Echinacea Soothing

Botanical extracts calm irritation and reduce redness while the skin is being cleansed, making it gentle enough for sensitive skin types.

🧊

Cooling Menthol Finish

A hint of menthol provides a refreshing, tingling sensation that cools and revitalizes skin after cleansing for a spa-like experience.

πŸ’¦

Moisturizing Formula

Glycerin, coconut oil, sunflower oil and cocoa butter help maintain skin hydration so it never feels stripped or tight after washing.

πŸ›‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility

⚠️
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains menthol and essential oil derivatives (limonene, citral). No retinoids or salicylic acid, but consult your doctor about essential oil exposure during pregnancy.

❌
Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not safe for fungal acne. Contains coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, soybean oil, canola oil, and cocoa seed butter β€” all of which can feed malassezia yeast.

⚠️
Comedogenic Rating: 3/5

Coconut oil (comedogenic rating 4) and cetearyl alcohol are present. May clog pores for acne-prone individuals despite being a rinse-off product.

βœ…
No Harsh Chemicals

Free from parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and SLS. Uses naturally-derived preservatives and gentle plant-based surfactants.

βœ…
Retinol & Acid Compatible

No active exfoliants in formula. Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs and BHAs as a gentle cleansing step.

ℹ️
Fragrance Note

Contains natural fragrance plus limonene, citral and alpha-isomethyl ionone. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.

πŸ”¬ Ingredient Breakdown

🌳 Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract Proven

Soap bark is a natural saponin-rich plant extract from the Chilean soap bark tree. It acts as a gentle, plant-based surfactant that creates a mild lather and effectively removes impurities without stripping skin of its natural moisture.

  • Function: Natural cleansing agent (surfactant) derived from saponins
  • Benefit: Deeply cleanses without harsh synthetic detergents like SLS
  • Research: Saponins have demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in dermatological studies
βœ…
One of the gentlest natural cleansing agents available, used for centuries in traditional skin care.

🌼 Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Proven

Chamomile extract is rich in the compound azulene, a powerful anti-inflammatory. It has been used for centuries to calm skin irritations, reduce redness and soothe sensitive or reactive skin types.

  • Active Compound: Azulene and bisabolol β€” both clinically recognized anti-inflammatory agents
  • Benefit: Calms irritation, reduces visible redness and soothes stressed skin
  • Research: Multiple studies confirm chamomile's ability to accelerate wound healing and reduce dermatitis symptoms
⚠️
Those with allergies to plants in the daisy (Asteraceae) family may experience contact dermatitis. Patch test if you have known plant allergies.

🌡 Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract Proven

Aloe vera is one of the most widely studied botanical ingredients in skin care. It provides soothing hydration, supports the skin barrier and helps calm irritation during and after cleansing.

  • Active Compounds: Polysaccharides, vitamins A, C, E and enzymes
  • Benefit: Soothes, hydrates and supports skin barrier repair
  • Research: Extensively studied for wound healing, anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties

🌻 Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil High Proven

Sunflower seed oil is the second listed ingredient, making it present at a high concentration. It is rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E, providing emollient and skin-barrier-supporting properties. It helps prevent moisture loss during cleansing.

  • Key Component: High in linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid)
  • Benefit: Nourishes and softens skin, prevents dryness after cleansing
  • Research: Studies show sunflower oil improves skin hydration and barrier integrity
⚠️
Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe. The fatty acids in sunflower oil can feed yeast responsible for fungal acne.

🧊 Menthol Promising

Menthol provides the signature cooling, tingling sensation of this cleanser. It stimulates cold receptors in the skin, creating a refreshing feeling that many users describe as spa-like and invigorating.

  • Function: Cooling agent that activates TRPM8 cold receptors
  • Benefit: Creates a soothing, refreshing sensation; mild analgesic effect
  • Note: Present at low concentration as one of the last listed ingredients
⚠️
Menthol can be irritating for very sensitive or compromised skin. Avoid contact with eyes. Some users report a strong tingling that may be uncomfortable.

31 ingredients

Water, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Coco-Glucoside, Silica, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Echinacea Purpurea Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Menthol, Sucrose Stearate, Xanthan Gum, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Canola Oil, Sodium Phytate, Alcohol, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Citral, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Phthalates, Petrolatum, SLS/SLES, Sulfates, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Formaldehyde, Hydroquinone, Retinoids, Triclosan, Oxybenzone, Artificial Dyes

πŸ”„ Where It Fits in Your Routine

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

Use as the first step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. Can also be used as a single-cleanse or as the second step in a double-cleanse routine after an oil cleanser.

πŸ“ How to Use

1

Wet Your Face

Splash your face with lukewarm water, or apply directly to dry skin for a deeper cleanse and more effective makeup removal.

2

Apply the Cream

Squeeze a dime-sized amount onto your fingertips or a wet washcloth. Massage gently onto your face in circular upward motions, avoiding the eye area.

3

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse with warm water first to remove all residue, then follow with a splash of cool water to close pores. Pat skin dry with a clean towel.

4

Follow Up

Continue with your toner and favorite Burt's Bees moisturizer or treatment products. Skin should feel clean, soft and refreshed β€” not tight or dry.

πŸ‘€ Who Is It For?

βœ… Perfect for you if:

  • You prefer natural, plant-based cleansers over synthetic formulas
  • You enjoy a cooling, refreshing sensation when cleansing
  • Your skin tends to feel dry or tight after using other cleansers
  • You want effective makeup removal in a gentle formula
  • You have normal, combination or slightly oily skin
  • You are looking for an affordable, everyday cream cleanser

❌ Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne β€” this formula contains multiple oils that feed malassezia
  • You are highly sensitive to menthol or essential oil derivatives
  • You need a truly fragrance-free cleanser for very reactive skin
  • You have severe cystic acne and need a medicated cleanser
  • You prefer a foaming or gel-type cleanser texture
  • You have allergies to plants in the daisy (Asteraceae) family

🎯 Skin Type Compatibility

Normal Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Ideal match. Effectively cleanses without disrupting the skin's natural balance. Leaves skin feeling fresh, soft and hydrated.

Oily Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Removes excess oil well and the menthol provides a clean feeling. The rich cream base may feel slightly heavy for very oily types.

Dry Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Standout pick for dry skin. The coconut oil, sunflower oil and glycerin ensure skin stays moisturized without that tight, stripped feeling.

Combination Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Works well across different face zones. Cleanses the T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Users report good balance overall.

Sensitive Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†β˜† Moderate

Contains menthol, fragrance and essential oil derivatives that can irritate very sensitive skin. Patch test recommended. Many sensitive users do tolerate it well.

Acne-Prone Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†β˜† Moderate

Contains coconut oil (comedogenic rating 4) and cetearyl alcohol. Works fine for some, but may aggravate breakouts in highly acne-prone individuals.

πŸ“ˆ Results Timeline

Day 1

Immediate Clean & Cooling Sensation

Skin feels deeply cleansed, soft and refreshed from the very first use. The menthol provides an immediate cooling tingle. Makeup and surface oil are effectively removed.

95% noticed immediately
Week 1–2

Reduced Dryness & Tightness

Skin begins to feel more balanced and less tight after cleansing compared to harsher cleansers. Redness may start to decrease thanks to the chamomile and aloe extracts.

80% noticed improvement
Week 3–4

Smoother, Softer Complexion

Consistent use leads to noticeably smoother, softer skin texture. Pores appear cleaner. Some users report a brighter, more even-toned complexion developing over time.

70% noticed improvement
Month 2+

Stable, Healthy-Looking Skin

Long-term users report consistently clear, well-balanced skin. Many have used this cleanser for years as their daily staple. Best results when paired with a good moisturizer.

65% long-term satisfaction

⭐ Ratings by Platform

πŸ›’ Amazon
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.6
Rating
14,000+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Recent formula change β€” some long-time users report different scent and texture than the original
πŸͺ Walmart
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.5
Rating
800+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Can feel slightly drying for some users, especially in cold weather months
πŸ’„ MakeupAlley
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.0
Rating
150+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Menthol scent is too strong for some; a few report a waxy residue left on skin
🏠 Burt's Bees Website
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.7
Rating
500+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Packaging redesign and updated formula differ from the beloved original version

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons

βœ… Praised

  • 98.9% natural origin formula with recognizable plant-based ingredients
  • Refreshing menthol cooling sensation that feels spa-like
  • Doesn't leave skin feeling dry, tight or stripped after use
  • Effectively removes makeup, dirt and excess oil
  • Very affordable price point for a quality natural cleanser
  • Dermatologist-recommended brand with long track record
  • Creamy texture is pleasant to use and a little goes a long way

❌ Criticized

  • Formula has been reformulated β€” some long-time fans dislike the change
  • Menthol scent can be overpowering and may irritate eyes or nostrils
  • Contains coconut oil and other comedogenic ingredients that may clog pores
  • Not fungal acne safe due to multiple oils and fatty esters
  • Some users report a waxy or oily film left on the skin
  • Contains fragrance and essential oil derivatives β€” not ideal for very sensitive skin
  • No active acne-fighting ingredients β€” cleanses but doesn't treat breakouts

πŸ’° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)

82% Match
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
$9.49 Budget Pick

Similar gentle cream cleanser approach but without menthol, essential oils or botanical extracts. Fragrance-free and better for very sensitive and acne-prone skin. Lacks the cooling herbal experience.

72% Match
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
$11.99 Similar Price

Cream-to-foam cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid for superior barrier repair. Fragrance-free. More science-driven but lacks the natural botanical appeal and cooling menthol sensation.

68% Match
Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser
$10.99 Similar Price

Another gentle, cream-based natural cleanser featuring oat extract for soothing. Fragrance-free formula is better for extremely sensitive skin but doesn't have the deep-clean cooling finish.

πŸ”„ Comparison with Competitors

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

~$12
Key Ingredients Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid
Size 16 oz / 473ml
Natural Origin Not specified
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Cooling Effect No

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

~$9
Key Ingredients Glycerin, Niacinamide, Panthenol
Size 16 oz / 473ml
Natural Origin Not specified
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Cooling Effect No

Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Cleanser

~$11
Key Ingredients Oat Extract, Feverfew
Size 7.8 oz / 221ml
Natural Origin Partially natural
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Varies
Cooling Effect No

πŸ“¦ Storage & Shelf Life

πŸ“…
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

🏠
Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to prevent drying out.

πŸ“¦
Packaging

Squeeze tube (recyclable via TerraCycle program). Sturdy plastic with flip-top cap.

✈️
Travel Friendly

6 oz exceeds TSA carry-on limit (3.4 oz). Available in 0.75 oz travel size. Transfer to a smaller container for flights.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Use with caution. This cleanser does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens β€” which are the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain menthol and fragrance components (limonene, citral) derived from essential oils, which some healthcare providers advise limiting during pregnancy. Since it is a rinse-off product with brief skin contact, the risk is considered low, but always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist to be safe.

No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, soybean oil, canola oil and cocoa seed butter. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser instead.

Yes. This cleanser contains no active exfoliants or acids, so it is safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid). It actually makes a good pairing with active treatments because it cleanses without adding additional irritation. Just be mindful that the menthol may add slight sensitivity if your skin is already reactive from strong actives.

This cleanser is best suited for normal and dry skin types. It excels at cleansing without stripping moisture, making it a favorite among users whose skin tends to feel tight after washing. It also works well for combination skin. Those with very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer a lighter gel or foam cleanser, and those with extremely sensitive skin should patch test due to the menthol and fragrance content.

You'll notice results immediately β€” skin feels clean, soft and refreshed after the very first use. The cooling menthol sensation is instant. Over 1–2 weeks of daily use, most users report reduced dryness and less post-wash tightness. After 3–4 weeks, expect smoother, more balanced skin. Keep in mind this is a gentle cleanser, not a treatment product, so it works best as part of a complete skincare routine.

This cleanser should be the first step in your skincare routine, both in the morning and evening. Apply it to wet or dry skin, massage gently, then rinse. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer and sunscreen (AM only). It can also be used as the second step in a double-cleanse method β€” use an oil cleanser or micellar water first to remove heavy makeup, then follow with this cream cleanser for a deeper clean.

This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of approximately 3 out of 5 due to ingredients like coconut oil (comedogenic rating 4) and cetearyl alcohol. However, because it is a rinse-off product that stays on skin only briefly, the actual pore-clogging risk is lower than with leave-on products. Many acne-prone users report no issues, while others have experienced breakouts. If you are highly prone to clogged pores, patch test on a small area first.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. The 6 oz tube typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, so most users will finish it well within the shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap closed to prevent the product from drying out or degrading.

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.2 out of 5

Verdict: Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream is a solid, affordable natural cleanser that delivers on its promise of gentle yet effective cleansing. The botanical-rich formula with soap bark, chamomile and aloe genuinely softens and soothes, while the menthol provides a uniquely refreshing experience. It's best suited for normal to dry skin types who value natural ingredients and enjoy a cooling wash. However, it's not ideal for fungal acne sufferers, those sensitive to fragrance, or users who need a medicated acne treatment. At around $10 for a 6 oz tube, it offers excellent value β€” especially from the number one dermatologist-recommended natural skincare brand.

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 Β«promisesΒ» 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

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Tocopherol
brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Tocopherol
question
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
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
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
41% 6% 51%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 31 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
1 A
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS