Soft Wash
Soft Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH-balanced jelly cleanser developed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss. This non-foaming formula effectively removes sunscreen and light makeup without stripping your skin barrier, featuring poloxamer (the same gentle ingredient found in contact lens solution) for an eye-safe cleansing experience.
Eye-Safe Formula
Contains poloxamer, the same gentle ingredient used in contact lens solutions. Keep your eyes open while cleansing to ensure thorough makeup removal.
Texture & feel
SENSORYEye-Safe Formula
Contains poloxamer, the same gentle ingredient used in contact lens solutions. Keep your eyes open while cleansing to ensure thorough makeup removal.
No Double Cleanse Needed
Clinically proven to remove light makeup and sunscreen in a single step. For heavy makeup, use as a second cleanse after an oil cleanser.
Barrier-Friendly
Non-foaming formula without traditional surfactants that can strip skin. Leaves skin feeling hydrated, never tight or dry.
Dermatologist-Developed
Created by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss based on years of in-office patient experience and clinical testing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or other pregnancy-concerning ingredients. Gentle formula safe for expecting and nursing mothers.
Contains Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, and Sorbitan Sesquioleate which may feed malassezia yeast.
Oil-free formula with low comedogenic rating. Suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Clinically tested and dermatologist tested. Fragrance-free and non-irritating formula suitable for reactive skin.
Ophthalmologist tested and formulated with poloxamer. Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Use as a gentle second cleanse to avoid over-stripping.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPoloxamer 184 5-8%Key Active
A gentle, synthetic cleansing agent commonly used in contact lens solutions. Creates a mild surfactant action that effectively dissolves dirt, oil, and makeup without irritating eyes or stripping skin.
- Function: Primary cleansing agent with amphiphilic structure (oil-loving center, water-loving ends)
- Safety: Used in ophthalmic products, making it safe for sensitive eye area
- Benefit: Allows eyes-open cleansing for thorough makeup removal
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. Helps maintain the skin barrier and prevents the tight, stripped feeling common with other cleansers.
- Comedogenicity: 0 - Will not clog pores
- Irritancy: 0 - Non-irritating for all skin types
- Research: Effective at 3%+ concentrations for hydration benefits
Decyl Glucoside 3.5-5.3%Gentle Surfactant
A plant-derived, gentle surfactant made from glucose and coconut/corn. Provides mild cleansing action while being one of the mildest surfactants available.
- Source: Derived from glucose and plant-based fatty alcohols
- Function: Mild cleansing and emulsification
- Note: May have slight irritation potential at higher concentrations
Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate ~2-4%Texture
A polymer that creates the signature jelly-like texture. Also acts as a stabilizer and mild thickener, giving the product its unique slip and feel.
- Function: Creates smooth, light, fresh texture
- Stability: Stable across wide pH range
- Feel: Contributes to non-stripping sensation
18 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Poloxamer 184, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprylate/Caprate, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Sebacate, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Citric Acid, Sodium Phytate, Phenoxyethanol, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Tin Oxide, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first step in your routine. For heavy makeup days, pair with an oil cleanser first. Dr. Idriss recommends cleansing only at night for most skin types.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Skin
Dispense a dime to quarter-sized amount onto dry fingertips. Apply directly to dry face without wetting first.
Massage Gently
Work the jelly cleanser across your face in gentle circular motions. Focus on areas with sunscreen or makeup buildup.
Add Water & Emulsify
Gradually add warm water while continuing to massage. The jelly will transform into a milky texture as it dissolves impurities.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with the rest of your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You wear SPF and light makeup daily
- You have sensitive skin or eyes
- Traditional cleansers leave your skin tight and dry
- You want to simplify your routine (no double cleanse needed)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You wear contact lenses
- You prefer fragrance-free products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You wear heavy, waterproof makeup daily
- You prefer foaming cleansers
- You need a budget-friendly option
- You want a deep exfoliating cleanse
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight jelly texture removes excess oil without over-stripping. Gentle enough for twice-daily use if needed.
Non-stripping formula with glycerin helps maintain hydration. Leaves skin feeling soft, never tight or uncomfortable.
Balances well across different face zones. Cleanses oily T-zone while respecting drier cheeks.
Clinically tested and dermatologist approved. Fragrance-free with eye-safe formula perfect for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to certain fatty acid derivatives.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSClean, Hydrated Skin
Skin feels clean and refreshed without any tightness or dryness. Light makeup and sunscreen effectively removed.
97% noticed cleaner skinImproved Skin Barrier
Skin barrier begins to recover from over-cleansing damage. Less redness and sensitivity reported.
90% noticed less tightnessBalanced, Healthy Complexion
Consistent use supports overall skin health. Many users report their skin produces less excess oil and feels more balanced.
85% satisfied with resultsRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle, non-stripping formula
- Eye-safe for contact lens wearers
- Removes SPF and light makeup effectively
- Fragrance-free for sensitive skin
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Developed by a board-certified dermatologist
- pH balanced at optimal ~5.0 level
- No double cleanse needed for daily wear
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe
- Higher price point ($30 for 5.2oz)
- May not remove waterproof makeup
- Non-foaming texture unfamiliar to some
- Only available at select retailers
- Small bottle size for the price
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier support. Lotion-like texture instead of jelly. More widely available and significantly cheaper per oz.
Similar jelly texture and contains poloxamer. Has rose water scent (not fragrance-free). Comparable gentle cleansing action.
Contains niacinamide and thermal water. Milky texture rather than jelly. French pharmacy brand with excellent sensitive skin reputation.
Gentle jelly-to-foam formula with glycerin and betaine. Lathers more than Soft Wash. Also ophthalmologist tested and eye-safe.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Sealed squeeze tube with twist-off cap (remove foil seal before first use)
Full size exceeds 100ml TSA limit. Mini size (50ml/1.7oz) available for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Soft Wash is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. The gentle, fragrance-free formula is designed to be as mild as possible. However, as with any skincare product, Dr. Idriss recommends consulting with your OB-GYN or primary care physician before adding new products to your routine.
No, Soft Wash is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, and Sorbitan Sesquioleate. If you struggle with fungal acne or malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or checking ingredient lists on folliculitisscout.com.
Yes! Soft Wash is compatible with all active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). Its gentle, non-stripping formula makes it an ideal cleanser to pair with actives, as it won't compound irritation. If you use an active cleanser, you can use Soft Wash as a second cleanse to keep skin hydrated.
Soft Wash is formulated for ALL skin types including dry, oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Its pH-balanced, non-stripping formula is especially beneficial for those with sensitive or reactive skin, those who find traditional cleansers too harsh, and anyone looking to support their skin barrier. The lightweight texture is particularly well-suited for oily skin types.
You'll notice immediate results after first use—skin will feel clean without tightness. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, many users report their skin barrier feels healthier with less sensitivity and dryness. After 4+ weeks, you may notice more balanced oil production and overall improved skin texture as your barrier recovers from previous over-cleansing.
Soft Wash should be used as your first step (cleanser). For light makeup and daily SPF, it can be used alone. For heavy or waterproof makeup, use an oil cleanser first, then follow with Soft Wash as your second cleanse. Dr. Idriss recommends cleansing only at night for most people—just rinse with water in the morning. If you have very oily skin, it's gentle enough to use twice daily.
No, Soft Wash is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It's oil-free and formulated without heavy pore-clogging ingredients. Independent analysis (WIMJ) found 0 comedogenic risk ingredients. However, everyone's skin is different, so patch testing is always recommended, especially for acne-prone individuals.
Soft Wash has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, it should be used within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. The sealed tube packaging helps maintain product integrity throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: Dr. Idriss Soft Wash is an excellent, dermatologist-developed cleanser that lives up to its gentle yet effective promise. The unique poloxamer-based formula offers a truly eye-safe experience while removing daily sunscreen and light makeup without stripping the skin barrier. Its pregnancy-safe, fragrance-free formulation makes it ideal for sensitive skin types and those seeking a minimalist approach. While the price point is higher than drugstore alternatives and it's not suitable for those with fungal acne, the clinical backing and thoughtful formulation justify the investment for those prioritizing skin barrier health. Best suited for daily SPF wearers who want a gentle, single-step cleanse without the tight, stripped feeling.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Poloxamer 184
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|