Soy Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser
Soy Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A bestselling, universal gel cleanser powered by amino acid-rich soy proteins, aloe vera, and cucumber extract. Gently removes makeup, SPF, and daily impurities without stripping skin's natural moisture barrier — leaving skin clean, calm, and soft after every wash.
Amino Acid-Rich Soy Proteins
Upcycled from the food industry, hydrolyzed soy proteins act like a moisture-binding mesh — locking in hydration, improving skin elasticity, and visibly tightening pores with continued use.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAmino Acid-Rich Soy Proteins
Upcycled from the food industry, hydrolyzed soy proteins act like a moisture-binding mesh — locking in hydration, improving skin elasticity, and visibly tightening pores with continued use.
pH-Balanced, Non-Stripping Formula
Clinically proven not to disrupt skin's natural pH. In a study of 122 subjects over 4 weeks, 97% felt their skin was not stripped of moisture after cleansing.
Cucumber Extract + Cornflower Water
Cucumber delivers a cooling, anti-inflammatory effect while cornflower (Centaurea Cyanus) flower water soothes redness and irritation — ideal for reactive and post-workout skin.
Triple Rose Complex
Combines Rosa Damascena extract, flower water, and flower oil for antioxidant protection, gentle antimicrobial action, and a naturally relaxing scent signature.
Ophthalmologist-Tested
Gentle enough to cleanse around the eye area and remove stubborn mascara without irritating sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers.
Low-Foam, Non-Drying Lather
Powered by coco-glucoside (a coconut-derived surfactant), this cleanser produces a soft, conditioning lather — never the tight, squeaky-clean feeling of harsh foaming washes.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All key ingredients — soy protein, aloe vera, cucumber extract, glycerin — are considered safe during pregnancy and nursing. The Rosa Damascena Flower Oil is used at trace fragrance levels only.
Contains sunflower seed oil, borago officinalis seed oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, and polyglyceryl-10 laurate — fatty acid derivatives that may theoretically feed malassezia. As a rinse-off product, exposure is brief and the practical risk is lower than leave-on products. If prone to fungal acne, patch test first.
As a rinse-off cleanser, comedogenic risk is significantly reduced. Key oils (sunflower — rating 0, borago — rating 1) rank low on the comedogenic scale. This formula is labeled non-comedogenic by Sephora and the brand.
No sulfates (SLS/SLES), synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, dyes, mineral oils, or triclosan. The formula is soap-free and won't leave behind any alkaline residue. Proven effective across all Fitzpatrick skin tones.
This gentle, pH-neutral cleanser does not interfere with or deactivate vitamin C serums, retinol, or AHA/BHA treatments applied after. It actually prepares skin optimally by maintaining pH balance.
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is so highly processed that it typically does not trigger soy food allergies. However, if you have a known topical soy sensitivity, consult your dermatologist before use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCoco-Glucoside Top 2%Proven
A coconut and glucose-derived surfactant that provides the cleanser's gentle lather. Unlike sulfate-based surfactants, coco-glucoside maintains the skin's natural lipid barrier and has a very low irritation profile — making it a gold standard in gentle cleansing formulation.
- Origin: Derived from coconut fatty alcohols and glucose (corn or wheat starch)
- Function: Primary surfactant — lifts and emulsifies makeup, oil, and impurities
- Safety: Rated 1–2 by EWG; considered non-irritating and biodegradable
- Foam profile: Moderate, stable foam — never harsh or stripping
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Mid-FormulaProven
The star active ingredient. Hydrolyzed soy protein is a vegan alternative to hydrolyzed collagen — its amino acid chains bind to skin and hair to deliver humectant, film-forming, and elasticity-boosting benefits. Fresh sources it from upcycled food-industry soy, reducing environmental waste.
- Mechanism: Low molecular weight amino acids penetrate the upper skin layers, binding water molecules
- Benefit: Clinically shown to improve skin elasticity and soften the appearance of fine lines over time
- Comparison: Functions similarly to hydrolyzed collagen without animal origin
- Sustainability: Upcycled from the food industry — a circular beauty ingredient
Glycerin + Propanediol + Butylene Glycol High ConcentrationProven
A triple-humectant system that forms the hydration backbone of this formula. These water-attracting molecules work synergistically: glycerin provides deep moisture draw, propanediol (corn-derived) offers lightweight slip and penetration enhancement, and butylene glycol boosts skin feel while also acting as a preservative booster.
- Glycerin: Ranked #1 most studied humectant in cosmetics; increases skin moisture content by up to 30%
- Propanediol: Also functions as a solvent, improving delivery of other actives
- Butylene glycol: Reduces tackiness of glycerin, improving sensory profile
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract Mid-FormulaProven
Cucumber extract is 95% water by composition, rich in vitamin C, caffeic acid, amino acids, and fatty acids. It delivers a cooling, anti-inflammatory effect on skin, reduces puffiness and transient redness, and contributes to the product's fresh, crisp natural scent.
- Key compounds: Caffeic acid (anti-inflammatory), ascorbic acid (antioxidant), cucurbitacins
- Function: Soothing, emollient, antioxidant
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — suitable for acne-prone skin
Centaurea Cyanus (Cornflower) Flower Water Mid-FormulaPromising
A steam-distilled floral water from blue cornflower petals, traditionally used in European phytotherapy to soothe eye inflammation. Rich in polysaccharides, flavonoids, and anthocyanins with demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity — a beautiful ingredient for reactive or redness-prone skin.
- Traditional use: European folk remedy for tired, irritated eyes and skin
- Compounds: Galacturonic acid, arabinose, glucose, anthocyanins, flavonoids
- Skin benefit: Calms redness, reduces irritation, supports skin recovery
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Mid-FormulaProven
One of the most clinically studied botanical ingredients in skincare. Aloe vera juice delivers polysaccharides (acemannan), vitamins C and E, zinc, and enzymes that collectively soothe irritation, support wound healing, maintain skin hydration, and calm post-UV inflammation.
- Key compound: Acemannan polysaccharide — locks moisture and accelerates skin repair
- Clinical evidence: Over 50 peer-reviewed studies confirm anti-inflammatory and healing properties
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — ideal for all skin types
Rosa Damascena Extract, Flower Water & Flower Oil Lower LevelsPromising
A triple-rose complex sourced from Damask rose petals. The extract and flower water provide antioxidant, gentle antimicrobial, and skin-toning benefits. The flower oil contributes the product's signature floral scent note at trace concentrations. Rich in geraniol, citronellol, and nerol.
- Antioxidant activity: Phenolic compounds neutralize free radicals and UV-induced oxidative stress
- Antimicrobial: Mild action against acne-causing bacteria
- Scent note: Flower oil at trace levels provides a natural, non-synthetic fragrance
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Lower LevelsProven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin cells from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution. In this formula, tocopherol also stabilizes the plant oils present and contributes to the product's emollient feel.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin-conditioning, formula stabilizer
- Benefit: Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) that accelerate skin aging
- Synergy: Works best combined with vitamin C (though this product contains neither vitamin C nor a direct vitamin C booster)
30 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Coco-Glucoside, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Propanediol, Xanthan Gum, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Rosa Damascena Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Flower Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Tocopherol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Silica, Citric Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Caramel, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse twice daily (AM + PM). At night, if wearing heavy makeup or SPF, consider a first cleanse with a cleansing balm or oil before applying this cleanser as your second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water over your entire face. Avoid hot water, which can disrupt the skin's lipid barrier and cause capillary dilation over time.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a small amount (about the size of a pea to a nickel) into wet palms. You need less product than you think — the formula spreads easily and a little goes a long way.
Massage Gently Over Face & Eyes
Work the cleanser into a soft lather using circular motions across the face, including the eye area and brow line. The ophthalmologist-tested formula is safe to use over closed eyelids to remove mascara and eye makeup.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. No tight or squeaky feeling should remain. Pat skin dry with a clean, soft towel — never rub.
Continue Routine
Follow immediately with your toner, essence, or serum while skin is still slightly damp to maximize absorption of subsequent hydrating steps.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, dry, combination, or normal skin
- You wear daily makeup or SPF and need effective but gentle removal
- You dislike the tight, stripped feeling after cleansing
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want safe options
- You are transitioning from harsh acne washes and need barrier repair
- You wear contact lenses and need an eye-area-safe formula
- You want a clean, natural-leaning routine with proven ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) and want a 100% FA-safe cleanser
- You need active-level treatment (e.g., salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide) in your cleanser
- You prefer a non-foaming micellar or balm cleanser texture
- You have a known topical soy or rose oil allergy
- Your budget requires a cleanser under $15 — this is a mid-luxury price point
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe triple humectant system (glycerin, propanediol, butylene glycol) plus soy protein and aloe vera actively hydrate rather than deplete. Dry skin users report no tightness after rinsing — a defining quality for this skin type.
No sulfates, no synthetic fragrances, no dyes, no parabens. The formula is ophthalmologist-tested and pH-balanced. Cornflower water and cucumber extract actively calm irritation. One of the safest cleansers available for reactive skin.
The lightweight gel dissolves sebum from oily zones without dehydrating drier cheek areas. pH-balancing properties help regulate oil production over time for a more even complexion across face zones.
Effectively removes excess sebum and daily buildup. However, heavy-oily skin types may prefer a second cleanse with a more astringent formula for a deeper clean. Works best as a morning or second-cleanse step at night.
Non-comedogenic and soap-free — cleans pores without leaving pore-blocking residue. Many acne-prone users report reduced breakouts after switching from harsh foaming cleansers. Note: not formulated for active acne treatment.
A universally compatible everyday cleanser. The fresh, lightweight gel texture and natural scent make it an enjoyable ritual for normal skin that wants to maintain a healthy, balanced baseline.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Skin Feels Cleaner, Softer — No Tightness
Immediately after rinsing, skin feels clean and comfortable — not stripped. The humectant complex leaves a subtle, non-greasy softness. Makeup and light SPF are effectively removed in a single cleanse.
97% reported no moisture stripping (brand clinical data)Redness & Irritation Visibly Reduced
Regular use of cornflower water, cucumber extract, and aloe vera begins to calm baseline redness. Sensitive and reactive skin types notice fewer flare-ups after washing. Skin looks calmer and less inflamed overall.
~80% notice improved skin comfortImproved Skin Texture & Hydration
Soy protein and triple humectants begin to produce visible differences in skin texture. Skin appears smoother, more even, and better hydrated. The brand's clinical trial confirmed measurable pH stability and moisture retention at the 4-week mark.
~75% notice smoother skin textureVisibly Tighter Pores, Improved Elasticity
Long-term soy protein use visibly improves skin elasticity and tightens the appearance of pores. Skin looks healthier overall. Many users report this becomes their cleanser they consistently return to after trying alternatives that cause breakouts or dryness.
~65% report visibly improved skin appearanceRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Non-stripping, hydrating clean every use
- Works well for sensitive, dry, and combination skin
- Gentle enough for eye area and contact lens wearers
- Pleasant, natural cucumber and rose scent
- Effective at removing daily makeup and SPF
- pH-balanced — clinically proven not to disrupt skin barrier
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and Clean at Sephora certified
- Available in multiple sizes including a travel 50ml
- Works with retinol and vitamin C actives without interference
Criticized
- Price point (~$38 for 150ml) is steep vs. drugstore alternatives
- Not ideal as a standalone cleanser for heavy-oily or acne-prone skin without double cleansing
- Not fully fungal acne safe due to fatty acid ingredients
- Bottle pump can be prone to leaking during shipping
- Some users find the cucumber scent too strong
- Does not contain active treatment ingredients (no AHA, BHA, niacinamide)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESA dermatologist-recommended, sulfate-free gel cleanser with ceramides and niacinamide for barrier repair. Shares Fresh Soy's non-stripping, hydrating philosophy — both are fragrance-free (LRP has no natural fragrance). Excellent for those on a budget or seeking a no-frills sensitive skin cleanser. Lacks soy protein and botanicals but performs similarly on the cleaning and hydration scale.
Formulated with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier restoration. Completely fragrance-free with a very low-risk ingredient profile. Much more accessible price point and widely available. Missing the botanicals and amino acid richness of Fresh Soy, but delivers comparable non-stripping hydration for daily use on dry and sensitive skin.
A green beauty alternative with kale, spinach, and green tea antioxidants. Also gel-textured, sulfate-free, and suitable for all skin types. Similar clean beauty positioning and price bracket. Key difference: YTTP uses amino acids from vegetables rather than soy protein, and contains spinach extract which provides a different antioxidant profile. Both are popular first-step cleansers in premium skincare routines.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The combination of sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate provides effective broad-spectrum preservation for up to 12 months from first use.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms without ventilation. Do not freeze.
Comes in a pump bottle (150ml standard size). The pump dispenses a controlled, hygienic dose to minimize contamination and waste. Also available in a travel flip-top 50ml and a jumbo 400ml economy size.
Yes — the 50ml / 1.7 oz travel size is TSA-compliant and available separately. The standard 150ml size exceeds the 100ml airline limit and must be checked. The 50ml size makes an excellent travel companion or trial size.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — Fresh Soy Face Cleanser is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical UV filters — the four main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The formula is built on gentle humectants (glycerin, propanediol), soy protein, and botanical extracts. The Rosa Damascena Flower Oil is present at trace fragrance levels only and is not a systemic concern at cosmetic concentrations. As with any new skincare product during pregnancy, consult your OB/GYN or midwife if you have specific concerns.
Not fully — this cleanser should be used with caution if you have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). It contains several ingredients that can theoretically feed malassezia: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, and Rosa Damascena Flower Oil. That said, because this is a rinse-off product, contact time with the skin is very brief — typically under 60 seconds. In practice, many people with mild fungal acne concerns tolerate rinse-off cleansers even with these ingredients. If you have severe or active fungal acne, consider using a completely FA-safe cleanser like La Roche-Posay Toleriane or CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser instead.
Yes — and it is actually an excellent pairing with these actives. The Fresh Soy Cleanser's pH-balanced, non-stripping formula prepares skin optimally for the application of acids, retinoids, and antioxidant serums applied afterward. Unlike alkaline soaps or harsh foaming cleansers that can temporarily elevate skin pH (which reduces the efficacy of low-pH vitamin C and AHA products), this cleanser maintains skin's natural slightly acidic pH. Cleanse, rinse, and apply your active serums as normal — no need to wait for pH to "correct" before applying actives.
The brand markets this as a universal cleanser for all skin types — and for the most part, that is accurate. It performs best on dry, sensitive, normal, and combination skin. Those with dry skin will appreciate the non-stripping formula and triple humectant system. Sensitive skin types benefit from the fragrance-free (no synthetic fragrance) formulation, pH balance, and soothing botanicals. Combination and oily skin users will find it effective as a morning or second-cleanse step, though very oily or acne-prone skin may want a deeper-cleansing option in their PM double-cleanse routine. It is not ideal as a targeted treatment cleanser for acne (no salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide).
You will notice an immediate difference in how clean and comfortable your skin feels after the very first wash — no tightness, no dryness, no stripping sensation. Visible improvements in skin texture, hydration, and reduced redness become apparent within 1–2 weeks of daily use. The brand's 4-week clinical trial demonstrated measurable improvements in skin moisture retention and pH stability. More significant benefits to skin elasticity and the appearance of pores develop over 6–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Results depend on your baseline skin condition and how your complete routine is formulated.
This cleanser is always Step 1 in your skincare routine — both morning and evening. In the morning: cleanse, then apply toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and SPF in that order. In the evening: if you wear makeup or a mineral/chemical SPF, consider using a cleansing balm or oil as a first cleanse to break down those products, then follow with Fresh Soy as your second cleanse to remove any residue and treat skin with its hydrating ingredients. After cleansing, continue with your toner, actives, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for maximum absorption.
Fresh Soy Face Cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 — very low risk. The brand labels it non-comedogenic on Sephora. As a rinse-off product, the risk of pore-clogging is substantially lower than leave-on products because the formula (including its oils) is rinsed away before it can settle into pores. The main oils in the formula — sunflower seed oil (rating 0) and borago officinalis seed oil (rating ~1) — are both on the low end of the comedogenic scale and are used in small amounts. Thousands of acne-prone users report using this cleanser without increased breakouts. Individual responses vary; patch test on the jaw or cheek if concerned.
Fresh Soy Face Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months — look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" printed inside. At twice-daily use (morning and night), a standard 150ml pump bottle typically lasts approximately 2–3 months, depending on how much product you use per cleanse. A pea-to-nickel-sized amount is sufficient for each use. The 400ml jumbo size provides exceptional value for daily users who have already confirmed the product suits their skin. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and humidity to ensure the full 12-month shelf life after opening.
Verdict: The Fresh Soy Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser earns its cult-favorite status through consistently delivering what no other cleanser should compromise on: a genuinely non-stripping, hydrating clean that works equally well across all skin types. Backed by clinical data, formulated with proven active ingredients (hydrolyzed soy protein, triple humectants, aloe vera, cucumber extract), and gentle enough for sensitive eyes and pregnancy — this is one of the rare "gateway" cleansers that convinces users to upgrade their entire routine. Its primary shortcomings are price relative to comparable drugstore alternatives, and the presence of fatty acid ingredients that make it unsuitable for fungal acne sufferers. For those without FA concerns, it remains one of the best-formulated, most enjoyable daily cleansers available at any price point.
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Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|







