Soft Clean Infusion
Soft Clean Infusion
Product Description
A luxurious hydrating essence treatment lotion infused with an exclusive Amino Acid15 Complex and Waterlily Flower Extract to amplify skin's natural moisture reservoir. This cushion-textured formula instantly soothes, plumps, and delivers a renewed radiance to dry, delicate skin.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Amino Acid15 Complex
Proprietary blend of 15 amino acids including Glycine, Serine, Arginine, and Proline to boost skin's natural amino acid levels and support skin barrier function.
Waterlily Flower Extract
Nymphaea Alba extract helps amplify skin's own natural hydration within its surface over time for lasting moisture retention.
Multi-Humectant System
Combines Hyaluronic Acid, Trehalose, Sucrose, Urea, and Glycerin for deep, multi-layer hydration that lasts all day.
Skin Barrier Support
Squalane, Cholesterol, and botanical extracts work together to strengthen and protect the skin's natural moisture barrier.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (licorice derivative). Some experts recommend avoiding during pregnancy due to potential glycyrrhizin effects. Consult your healthcare provider.
NOT safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, Linoleic Acid, and various esters that can feed malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne flare-ups.
Rated 2/5 on comedogenic scale. Generally well-tolerated, though Wheat Germ Extract may be problematic for some acne-prone individuals.
No drying alcohols or parabens. Preserved with gentle alternatives like Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin.
Includes Parfum/Fragrance. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
Contains Wheat Germ Extract and Barley Extract. Those with severe gluten sensitivities should exercise caution.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Amino Acid15 Complex 15 Types Proven
A proprietary blend of 15 amino acids that serve as building blocks for skin proteins. These include Glycine, Serine, Arginine, Proline, Alanine, Lysine, Leucine, Valine, Threonine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Phenylalanine, and Tyrosine.
- Function: Supports skin's natural NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor) and protein synthesis
- Research: Amino acids are essential components of collagen and elastin production
- Benefit: Improves skin hydration, elasticity, and overall skin health
π§ Sodium Hyaluronate 1.6-1.9% Proven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid, known for its exceptional water-binding properties. Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water.
- Function: Powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in skin
- Research: Extensively studied; proven to improve skin hydration and reduce fine lines
- Penetration: Smaller molecular weight allows better absorption than standard HA
πΏ Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate 1.1-1.4% Proven
A salt derived from licorice root with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Also provides mild skin brightening benefits.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, sebum-regulating, and skin-soothing agent
- Research: Studies show effectiveness in calming irritation and reducing redness
- Bonus: May help with hyperpigmentation through tyrosinase inhibition
πΈ Nymphaea Alba (Waterlily) Flower Extract Active Level Promising
Signature botanical extract from white water lily flowers that helps boost skin's natural hydration retention over time.
- Function: Enhances skin's moisture-binding capacity
- Research: EstΓ©e Lauder proprietary research shows improved hydration over time
- Benefit: Provides cumulative hydration benefits with continued use
𫧠Squalane Emollient Level Proven
A stable, hydrogenated form of squalene that mimics skin's natural sebum. Provides excellent moisture retention without greasiness.
- Function: Occlusive emollient that prevents transepidermal water loss
- Research: Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin
- Benefit: Locks in hydration and leaves skin soft and smooth
57 ingredients
Water\Aqua\Eau, Glycereth-26, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Polysorbate 20, Sucrose, Nymphaea Alba (Water Lily) Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Trehalose, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Caffeine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Serine, Leucine, Alanine, Lysine, Arginine, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Threonine, Valine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Glycine, Squalane, Passiflora Incarnata Flower Extract, Leontopodium Alpinum Extract, Lythrum Salicaria Extract, Hordeum Vulgare Extract\Extrait D'Orge, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract, Tocopherol, Sodium PCA, Linoleic Acid, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Urea, Sodium Palmitoyl Proline, Cholesterol, Sodium Levulinate, Dipropylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Polyvinyl Acetate, Triacetin, BHT, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Chlorphenesin, Sorbic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-51, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply immediately after cleansing to damp skin for best absorption. Can be used both morning and evening.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Use your preferred cleanser and gently pat face until slightly dampβnot completely dry.
Dispense Product
Pour a generous amount (about 1-2 pumps) into the palm of your hand or onto a cotton pad.
Apply to Face
Press palms together, then pat gently onto cheeks, chin, forehead, and neck. Alternatively, swipe across face with saturated cotton pad.
Let Absorb
Allow 30-60 seconds for the essence to fully absorb before applying your next skincare step (serum, moisturizer).
Follow with Serum & Moisturizer
Layer your targeted treatments and seal with moisturizer. In the AM, always finish with sunscreen.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry to very dry skin that needs deep hydration
- You want a luxurious, spa-like treatment experience
- You prefer a cushion-textured, non-sticky essence
- You're looking for anti-aging hydration support
- Your skin needs soothing and calming benefits
- You want to prep skin for better serum absorption
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor)
- You have very oily skin that gets congested easily
- You're sensitive to fragrance
- You have a wheat/gluten allergy (topical)
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Specifically formulated for dry skin. The multi-humectant system provides deep, lasting hydration without heaviness.
Provides ideal hydration maintenance and prep step for the rest of your routine. Great year-round.
Works well on dry areas. Consider the Perfectly Clean Infusion version which is specifically designed for combination skin.
May feel too rich for very oily skin. Best used only in dry areas or during winter months when skin needs extra moisture.
Contains soothing licorice extract. However, fragrance may be an issue for very reactive skin. Patch test recommended.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5), but NOT suitable for fungal acne. Those with bacterial acne may use cautiously.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Softness
Skin feels immediately softer and more supple. The cushion texture provides an instant moisture boost and leaves a dewy glow.
100% noticed immediate softnessSmoother, More Radiant Skin
Clinical testing shows +15% smoother feel and +12% more glowing appearance after just one application.
Based on clinical testing of 36 womenSignificantly More Moisturized
After consistent use for one week, skin shows +35% improvement in moisturization levels. Dry patches diminish.
Based on clinical testing of 21 womenCumulative Hydration Benefits
Waterlily extract works over time to boost skin's natural hydration within its surface. Fine lines from dryness appear reduced.
Continued improvement with regular useβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Luxurious cushion texture that feels spa-like
- Large 400ml size offers excellent value
- Clinically proven hydration results
- Unique 15 amino acid complex
- Non-sticky, absorbs well
- Leaves skin soft, plump, and glowing
- Works as excellent prep for serums
- Elegant bottle design
β Criticized
- Contains fragrance that some find strong
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains licorice (pregnancy caution)
- Gel texture differs from traditional lotions
- May not be rich enough for very dry skin
- Premium price point
- Contains wheat/barley (gluten concern)
- Glass bottle not ideal for travel
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Japanese cult favorite with 7 types of hyaluronic acid. Similar hydrating benefits at a fraction of the price. No amino acid complex but exceptional moisture retention.
K-beauty essence with hyaluronic acid and panthenol. Lighter texture than EstΓ©e Lauder. Fungal acne safe and fragrance-free. Simpler formula.
Drugstore option with hyaluronic acid in water-gel format. More of a moisturizer than essence. Fragrance-free version available. Good for all skin types.
Drugstore hyaluronic acid serum with plumping benefits. Different texture (serum vs essence). No amino acids but effective hydration at accessible price.
π Comparison with Competitors
EstΓ©e Lauder Soft Clean Infusion
$42.00SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
$185.00La Mer The Treatment Lotion
$130.00LancΓ΄me Absolue Rose 80 Toner
$88.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed when not in use.
Frosted glass bottle with gold cap. Elegant design but not ideal for travel due to weight.
The 400ml bottle exceeds TSA limits. Consider decanting into smaller containers or purchasing travel sizes when available.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Caution is advised. This product contains Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, a licorice derivative. While topical absorption is minimal, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding licorice-based skincare during pregnancy due to potential effects of glycyrrhizin. Always consult your doctor or midwife before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20 (an emulsifier that feeds malassezia yeast), Linoleic Acid, and various esters that can trigger or worsen fungal acne. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Essence or Hada Labo Original (not Premium) versions.
Yes, this essence lotion works well with most active ingredients. It's a hydrating prep step that goes on after cleansing and before your actives. The hydrating formula can actually help buffer irritation from retinol and acids. Apply this essence, let it absorb, then apply your vitamin C (AM) or retinol/acids (PM).
This essence lotion is specifically formulated for dry skin and works excellently for normal skin as well. It's also suitable for combination skin users who focus application on dry areas. Oily skin types may find it too rich. For combination/normal skin, EstΓ©e Lauder offers the "Perfectly Clean Infusion" variant instead.
You'll notice immediate softness and hydration after the first use. Clinical testing shows +15% smoother feel and +12% more glowing skin after a single application. After one week of consistent use, studies show +35% improvement in moisturization. The Waterlily extract provides cumulative benefits over 4+ weeks of regular use.
Apply immediately after cleansing, on slightly damp skin. This is your second step (after cleanser) in both AM and PM routines. Follow with serum, eye cream, and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen. This essence preps your skin for better absorption of subsequent products.
This product has a comedogenic rating of 2/5, meaning it has low pore-clogging potential for most people. However, it contains Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract which has high comedogenic potential for some individuals. If you're very acne-prone, patch test first. Note: It is NOT suitable for fungal acne regardless of bacterial acne concerns.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. With the generous 400ml size and twice-daily use, most users finish the bottle within 4-6 months, well within the recommended timeframe. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: EstΓ©e Lauder Soft Clean Infusion is an excellent hydrating essence lotion for those with dry to normal skin seeking a luxurious, spa-like experience. The unique 15 amino acid complex combined with hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts delivers clinically proven moisturization results. The generous 400ml size offers good value for a prestige product. However, it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers, pregnant individuals should consult their doctor first, and the fragrance may not suit everyone. If these concerns don't apply to you, this cushion-textured essence is a fantastic addition to any hydration-focused routine.
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 skinβs 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 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.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 8 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 |
Glycereth-26
Solvent, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sucrose
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Soothing
|
|