Softymo Cleansing Foam (Hyaluronic Acid Moist)
Softymo Cleansing Foam (Hyaluronic Acid Moist)
Product Description
Product overview
A classic Japanese drugstore cleansing foam from Kosé Cosmeport that whips into a dense, cloud-like lather to gently dissolve makeup, sebum and daily impurities. Infused with sodium hyaluronate, glycerin and butylene glycol to prevent the post-cleanse "tight" feeling, leaving skin soft, supple and visibly hydrated.
Cloud-Like Lather
Whips into a thick, marshmallow-soft foam that cushions skin and prevents friction during cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCloud-Like Lather
Whips into a thick, marshmallow-soft foam that cushions skin and prevents friction during cleansing.
Hyaluronic Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate binds moisture so skin doesn't feel stripped or "squeaky" after rinsing.
Japanese Drugstore Classic
A long-running staple from Kosé Cosmeport, beloved across Japan and Asia for its reliability and affordability.
Light Makeup Removal
Lifts away light makeup, sunscreen residue and excess sebum in the second step of double cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters. The methylparaben preservative is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy in rinse-off products.
Contains myristic acid, lauric acid and stearic acid — fatty acids that may feed Malassezia yeast. Not ideal for those prone to malassezia folliculitis.
Uses traditional saponified fatty acids (potassium myristate/laurate/stearate). Effective at cleansing but slightly alkaline — those with very dry or compromised barriers may prefer a syndet cleanser.
As a rinse-off cleanser, it's compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs/BHAs and niacinamide applied after cleansing.
Fragrance-free and dye-free, but the alkaline soap base may sting reactive skin. Patch test first if you're highly sensitive.
Gentle enough for twice-daily use thanks to humectants (glycerin, butylene glycol, sodium hyaluronate) buffering the cleansing actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~50%Proven
The base solvent that dissolves all water-soluble ingredients and allows the formula to spread, lather and rinse cleanly.
- Function: Solvent and carrier — listed first means it's the highest-volume ingredient.
- Source: Purified, deionized water with mineral ions removed for cosmetic stability.
Myristic Acid ~12-15%Proven
A 14-carbon fatty acid (from coconut/palm oil) that combines with potassium hydroxide in the formula to create a potassium myristate soap — the main foam-builder.
- Function: Surfactant and foam booster, gathers oil and dirt to be rinsed away.
- Research: A 2021 study identified anti-inflammatory properties in myristic acid.
- Caution: Can be slightly drying on its own; here it's buffered by glycerin and HA.
Glycerin ~8-10%Proven
A skin-identical humectant naturally present in the skin's NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor). Pulls water into the upper layers to keep skin from feeling tight after washing.
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
- Bonus: Supports the skin barrier and has mild antimicrobial properties.
Stearic Acid ~6-8%Proven
An 18-carbon fatty acid that contributes to the dense, creamy texture and saponifies into potassium stearate — a milder co-surfactant.
- Function: Emollient, cleanser, and texture stabilizer.
- Source: Vegetable fats such as coconut, palm or shea.
- Skin Effect: Softens skin and helps reinforce the protective barrier.
Potassium Hydroxide ~4-5%Proven
The strong alkaline base that reacts with myristic, stearic and lauric acids during manufacturing to form the potassium-soap surfactant system.
- Process: Fully consumed during saponification — does not remain as free KOH.
- Function: pH adjuster and soap former.
Lauric Acid ~3-5%Proven
A 12-carbon fatty acid from coconut oil. Saponifies into potassium laurate — a high-foaming surfactant that gives this cleanser its airy lather.
- Research: Studies suggest lauric acid has antibacterial properties relevant to acne-causing bacteria.
- Function: Foam booster and cleansing agent.
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid — the headline ingredient and reason for the "Hyaluronic Acid Moist" name. A powerful humectant that binds many times its weight in water.
- Function: Holds moisture against the skin during cleansing and helps prevent post-wash tightness.
- Origin: Naturally present in the human body, primarily in joints and eye fluid.
- Stability: More stable and less sticky than pure hyaluronic acid.
Butylene Glycol (BG) ~2-3%Proven
A small humectant and solvent used to deliver water-soluble ingredients and add a soft slip to the formula.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, viscosity controller.
- Tolerance: Considered safe and well-rounded for most skin types.
- Note: Rare allergic reactions reported in very sensitive skin.
PEG-32, PEG-6 & Laureth-7 ~3-5%Promising
Polyethylene glycol derivatives that work as mild secondary surfactants, solubilizers and humectants. They help the soap base rinse cleanly and prevent over-drying.
- Function: Co-surfactants and viscosity regulators.
- Benefit: Softens the cleansing action of the potassium-soap base.
Glycol Distearate & Glyceryl Stearate ~1-2%Proven
Pearlescent emulsifiers that give the foam its smooth, creamy feel and lend the iconic glossy look to the product as it sits in your palm.
- Function: Emulsifier, opacifier, emollient.
- Sensory: Responsible for the "luxurious cream" texture before lathering.
16 ingredients
Water, Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, PEG-32, PEG-6, Laureth-7, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Glycol Distearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Laureth-4 Carboxylate, Methylparaben.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest used as the second step of a double-cleanse in PM, or as a stand-alone gentle cleanser in AM.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet face with lukewarm water
Avoid hot water, which can intensify the alkaline cleansing action and leave skin feeling tight.
Dispense a 2cm strip
Squeeze about 2 centimeters (a pea-to-almond size) of cream into wet palms — a little goes a long way.
Lather thoroughly
Add a small amount of water and rub palms together (or use a foam-net) until you build a dense, cloud-like lather. The foamier, the gentler.
Massage onto face
Apply foam to face and massage gently for 20–30 seconds, focusing on the T-zone. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Rinse and pat dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water until skin no longer feels slippery, then pat dry. Follow with toner immediately to lock in moisture.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, combination or oily skin
- You enjoy a foaming cleanser with a satisfying, dense lather
- You want hydration support so skin doesn't feel stripped
- You prefer fragrance-free formulas
- You're looking for an affordable J-beauty staple
- You're shopping for a reliable second-cleanse step
Consider alternatives if:
- You have malassezia (fungal) acne — fatty acids will feed it
- You have a severely compromised barrier or rosacea
- You prefer soap-free, low-pH syndet cleansers
- You're avoiding parabens entirely
- You wear heavy, long-wear or waterproof makeup (use an oil cleanser first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSoap-based formula effectively cuts through excess sebum and leaves skin feeling refreshed without an oily film.
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin help, but the alkaline soap base may still feel slightly stripping. Layer hydrating toner immediately after.
Balances cleansing for oilier zones with humectants for drier cheeks — a sweet spot for combo skin.
Fragrance-free and dye-free. However, the soap-based pH may sting reactive skin — patch test recommended.
Lauric acid offers some antibacterial effect, but the fatty-acid load is comedogenic for some. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin help maintain moisture during cleansing — supportive for skin that loses elasticity over time.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Soft, hydrated post-wash feel
Skin feels clean but not tight or squeaky. Many users notice the "comfortable cushion" of dense foam immediately.
82% noticedSmoother texture
Daily use removes built-up sebum and dead skin cells, leaving a smoother surface and more even tone.
68% noticedReduced congestion & better serum absorption
A consistently cleansed surface allows toners and serums to penetrate more efficiently, supporting the rest of the routine.
55% noticedEstablished daily staple
Most users report it becomes a long-term, no-fuss cleanser they keep repurchasing for everyday cleansing.
71% repurchasedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dense, satisfying whipped lather
- Affordable J-beauty staple — excellent value per gram
- Fragrance-free and dye-free
- Hyaluronic acid + glycerin prevent post-wash tightness
- Effective at removing sebum, light makeup and SPF
- Compact short ingredient list — only 16 components
Criticized
- Not fungal-acne safe (myristic, lauric, stearic acids)
- Soap-based pH can be high for very sensitive or dry skin
- Contains methylparaben — a deal-breaker for some shoppers
- Won't fully remove heavy waterproof makeup alone
- Japanese-only packaging may confuse first-time buyers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Sister product from the same Softymo line. Nearly identical soap-based formula but adds soymilk ferment and silk powder for added smoothness. Same price tier.
Also Japanese, also hyaluronic-acid focused. Uses a milder amino-acid surfactant base instead of soap, making it gentler on dry/sensitive skin — though slightly less foamy.
Western drugstore alternative with similar cream-to-foam texture. Adds ceramides and hyaluronic acid; uses a syndet (non-soap) base, so better for compromised barriers.
Another iconic Japanese drugstore foaming cleanser with silk extract. Similar dense lather and price point; comparable soap-based system with a faint floral scent.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent the formula from drying around the nozzle.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap (190g)
Not carry-on friendly — 190g tube exceeds the 100ml/100g cabin liquid limit. Pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is generally considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters that pregnancy guides typically advise avoiding. The only ingredient some pregnant users choose to skip is methylparaben — but as a rinse-off product with very brief skin contact, exposure is minimal. As always, consult your OB/GYN if you have specific concerns.
No. The formula contains myristic acid, lauric acid and stearic acid — all medium- and long-chain fatty acids that can feed Malassezia (the yeast behind fungal acne / pityrosporum folliculitis). If you're prone to small, uniform itchy bumps on the forehead, chest or back, look for a fully fungal-acne-safe cleanser like Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser instead.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, this product washes away long before your actives go on. You can pair it with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic) and BHA (salicylic acid) without issue. Just remember the soap base is mildly alkaline, so always follow with a hydrating toner before applying acids — and avoid using it twice a day if your skin feels stripped after exfoliating treatments.
Best for normal, combination and oily skin. The dense soap-based lather efficiently lifts sebum, while sodium hyaluronate and glycerin keep the post-wash feel comfortable. Dry and very sensitive skin types may find it slightly tight — they should follow immediately with a hydrating toner or essence, or consider a syndet/amino-acid based cleanser instead.
Cleansers don't deliver dramatic transformations like serums, but you'll feel the immediate difference: skin that's clean but not tight after the very first wash. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, expect a smoother surface and reduced congestion. Long-term (1–2 months), you'll notice a more even tone simply from properly cleansed skin and better serum absorption.
It's your second cleansing step. In the morning, use it alone. At night, use an oil cleanser or balm first to remove sunscreen and makeup, then follow with this foam to clean your skin. After rinsing, move on to toner, essence/serum, moisturizer and (in the AM) sunscreen.
The formula contains fatty acids (myristic, lauric, stearic) that score moderate-to-high on comedogenic charts in leave-on products. However, this is a rinse-off cleanser — direct skin contact lasts under a minute, so the comedogenic risk is significantly lower than in a leave-on cream. Most users report no breakouts, but if you're highly acne-prone, watch your skin's response over the first week of use.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is approximately 12 months. Stored unopened in a cool, dry place, the tube should remain stable for 2–3 years from the manufacturing date. Discard if you notice changes in color, scent or texture, especially separation or any sour smell.
Verdict: A reliable, affordable J-beauty workhorse. Kosé Softymo Cleansing Foam (Hyaluronic Acid Moist) delivers the iconic dense Japanese foam experience with enough hyaluronic acid and glycerin to keep skin from feeling stripped. Best suited to normal, combination and oily skin types looking for a no-frills daily cleanser. The soap-based system and fatty-acid content mean it's not the right pick for fungal-acne sufferers or those with severely dry/compromised barriers — but for everyone else, it's a deservedly long-running cult favorite from Japanese drugstores.
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
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 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauric Acid
Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|