Soft Launch Hydrating Cream Cleanser
Soft Launch Hydrating Cream Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
Bubble's gentlest cleanser ever — a delicate daily cream cleanser designed for dry and sensitive skin. This creamy formula lathers into a soft, hydrating foam that cleanses without leaving skin feeling stripped, tight, or dehydrated. Enriched with ceramides, allantoin, and avocado oil to soothe and nourish while supporting your skin's moisture barrier.
Barrier Support
Plant-derived ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) replenish the natural building blocks of your skin barrier for healthier, more resilient skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Support
Plant-derived ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) replenish the natural building blocks of your skin barrier for healthier, more resilient skin.
Gentle Hydration
Creamy formula lathers into a soft, hydrating foam that cleanses without stripping essential moisture from the skin.
Soothing Formula
Allantoin calms and soothes irritated skin while avocado oil nourishes with vitamins and essential fatty acids.
Clean Beauty
Free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, and fragrance. Vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist tested.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Avocado Oil (fatty acids), and Sphingomonas Ferment Extract which may feed malassezia yeast.
Non-comedogenic formula unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin (unless fungal acne is a concern).
Dermatologist tested, fragrance-free, and formulated without common irritants. Gentle enough for even the most sensitive faces.
Gentle pH-balanced formula works well with retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs without causing irritation or interfering with actives.
Mild enough to use after chemical peels, microneedling, or laser treatments once skin has begun healing (consult your dermatologist).
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPlant-Derived Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP)Proven
Three essential ceramides that mimic the natural lipids found in your skin barrier. Ceramides make up about 50% of the lipids between skin cells and are crucial for maintaining hydration and protection.
- Function: Replenish and repair the skin's moisture barrier
- Evidence: Clinically proven to improve skin hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Benefits: Strengthens barrier function, locks in moisture, protects against environmental stressors
AllantoinProven
A gentle, well-researched soothing ingredient derived from the comfrey plant (though typically produced synthetically for purity). Known for its calming and skin-conditioning properties.
- Function: Soothes irritation, softens skin, promotes healing
- Evidence: Studies show allantoin can help with wound healing and reduce skin irritation
- Benefits: Calms redness, softens rough patches, gentle enough for sensitive skin
Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima)Proven
A lightweight, nutrient-rich oil packed with vitamins A, D, E, and essential fatty acids. Deeply nourishing without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Function: Nourishes, moisturizes, and helps reduce redness
- Evidence: Rich in oleic acid and antioxidants that support skin health
- Benefits: Softens skin, provides antioxidant protection, helps with dryness
Cocamidopropyl HydroxysultaineGentle Surfactant
A mild, coconut-derived cleansing agent that creates a soft foam without stripping the skin. One of the gentlest surfactants available.
- Function: Primary cleansing agent with excellent foaming properties
- Evidence: Biodegradable and significantly milder than traditional sulfate surfactants
- Benefits: Cleanses effectively without disrupting the skin barrier or causing dryness
Cholesterol & PhytosphingosineBarrier Support
Essential lipids that work alongside ceramides to rebuild and maintain the skin's protective barrier. Found naturally in healthy skin.
- Function: Stabilize ceramides and enhance barrier repair
- Evidence: The ceramide-cholesterol-fatty acid ratio is crucial for optimal barrier function
- Benefits: Improved moisture retention, stronger skin barrier, enhanced protection
28 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Behenyl Alcohol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Pentylene Glycol, Glycolipids, Sphingomonas Ferment Extract, Allantoin, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Polylysine, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Stearyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Polyglyceryl-6 Dicaprate, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your primary cleanser or as the second step in a double cleanse routine. Pair with Bubble Water Slide serum and Slam Dunk moisturizer for the complete dry skin routine.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and cause dryness.
Dispense & Lather
Pump 1-2 pumps of Soft Launch into your palms. Gently work the cream into a soft, hydrating lather.
Massage Gently
Apply to your face using gentle, circular motions for 30-60 seconds. The creamy foam will lift away impurities without stripping moisture.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel — don't rub! Follow with the rest of your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin
- Your skin feels tight or stripped after cleansing
- You want a gentle, non-foaming cleanser
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You use retinoids or other actives that sensitize skin
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean beauty products
- You want affordable skincare that actually works
- You love Bubble's Slam Dunk moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer a deep, mattifying cleanse
- You have very oily skin and want oil control
- You need a cleanser specifically for acne treatment
- You prefer gel or foaming cleanser textures
- You want a cleanser with active ingredients (SA, BHA)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Ceramides and avocado oil deeply hydrate without stripping. Leaves skin soft and comfortable, never tight.
Fragrance-free, gentle formula with soothing allantoin. Dermatologist tested for even the most reactive skin.
Works well for combo skin, especially in dry climates or winter months. May feel too hydrating for very oily T-zones.
Maintains healthy moisture balance without over-hydrating. Perfect for daily use morning and night.
May feel too creamy for oily skin. Consider Bubble Fresh Start for a more mattifying cleanse instead.
Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to fatty acid content.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSInstant Comfort
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated immediately after rinsing. No tightness, no dryness — just plush, comfortable skin.
97% said skin didn't feel strippedImproved Hydration
Consistent use allows ceramides to start replenishing the skin barrier. Skin begins to feel more resilient and less reactive.
96% said gentle cleansing without sensitivityBarrier Restoration
Noticeable improvement in overall skin texture and moisture retention. Dry patches and flakiness diminish significantly.
92% said skin didn't feel tight or dryHealthier Skin Barrier
With continued use, skin barrier is visibly strengthened. Skin appears healthier, more supple, and better able to handle actives.
Based on user trial of 102 people over 4 daysRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — doesn't strip or dry out skin
- Affordable price point for quality ingredients
- Contains 3 types of ceramides for barrier repair
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Creamy texture feels luxurious and comforting
- Clean formula — vegan, cruelty-free, sulfate-free
- Great for use with retinoids and other actives
- Leaves skin soft, hydrated, never tight
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe — contains problematic ingredients
- May feel too rich/creamy for very oily skin
- Small bottle size (4.2 oz) for daily use
- Doesn't remove waterproof makeup effectively
- Not available in all countries/retailers
- Contains ferment extract (concern for some)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains the same 3 ceramides plus hyaluronic acid. Larger size offers better value. May leave slight film that some users dislike. No avocado oil.
Contains ceramide NP, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water. Similar gentle, hydrating formula. Slightly lighter texture. 13.5 oz size available.
Ultra-minimal formula with no ceramides but extremely gentle. Great for ultra-sensitive skin. Fungal acne safe. Preferred by dermatologists for reactive skin.
Same brand, different formula. Gel texture better for oily/combo skin. More mattifying effect. Choose Fresh Start for oily skin, Soft Launch for dry.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEBubble Soft Launch
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the 12M symbol on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed. Keep pump clean and closed when not in use.
Hygienic pump bottle design prevents contamination and makes it easy to dispense the right amount.
Yes — 4.2 fl oz (125ml) is over TSA liquid limit, but 1.7 oz travel size available. Consider transferring to travel container.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes! Bubble Soft Launch Hydrating Cream Cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. All ingredients are gentle and pregnancy-compatible. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, Soft Launch is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast: Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Avocado Oil (rich in fatty acids), and Sphingomonas Ferment Extract. If you have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), consider Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or other FA-safe alternatives instead.
Yes! Soft Launch is an excellent cleanser to pair with active ingredients. Its gentle, pH-balanced formula won't interfere with the efficacy of retinoids, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants. In fact, its hydrating properties help buffer some of the dryness and irritation that can come with using actives. Use Soft Launch before applying your actives in the PM routine.
Soft Launch is best suited for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin types. It's also excellent for normal skin and combination skin in dry climates or winter months. If you have very oily skin or prefer a mattifying cleanse, consider Bubble's Fresh Start Gel Cleanser instead. Soft Launch is the "dry skin sibling" while Fresh Start is better for oily/combo.
You'll notice immediate comfort — skin feels soft and hydrated right after the first use without any tightness. Visible improvements in skin barrier health typically appear within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. The ceramides need time to replenish and repair the skin barrier. For full barrier restoration benefits, use consistently for 6-8 weeks.
Soft Launch is a second-step cleanser (water-based cleanser). Use it after an oil cleanser if double cleansing, or on its own for your morning cleanse. Follow with toner, serum (like Bubble Water Slide), moisturizer (like Bubble Slam Dunk), and sunscreen (AM). It's the foundation of both your morning and evening routines.
No, Soft Launch is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It's formulated to cleanse without clogging pores. While it contains avocado oil, it's in a rinse-off formula that shouldn't cause congestion for most users. It's suitable for acne-prone skin (unless you specifically have fungal acne, which requires different formulas).
Soft Launch has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The 4.2 oz bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The pump packaging helps maintain hygiene and extends shelf life.
Verdict: Bubble Soft Launch Hydrating Cream Cleanser delivers on its promise as the brand's gentlest cleanser ever. The ceramide-rich formula genuinely supports skin barrier health while the creamy texture feels luxurious without the luxury price tag. Perfect for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types looking for a no-fuss, effective cleanser. The only significant drawback is that it's not fungal acne safe — if that's a concern, look elsewhere. Otherwise, this is an excellent affordable option that punches above its weight class. Pairs beautifully with the rest of Bubble's dry skin lineup for a complete, budget-friendly routine that actually works.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Behenyl Alcohol
Emollient, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate
Emulsifying
|
|