Superfood Facial Wash
Superfood Facial Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A revitalizing prebiotic gel cleanser packed with nutrient-rich superfoods including Broccoli, Kale, and Wheatgrass extracts. Like a green juice for your face, it gently removes impurities while nourishing skin for a fresh, balanced, and glowing complexion.
Superfood Complex
Broccoli Seed, Pumpkin Seed, and Avocado Oils deliver essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to nourish skin during cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSuperfood Complex
Broccoli Seed, Pumpkin Seed, and Avocado Oils deliver essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to nourish skin during cleansing.
Prebiotic Technology
Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide feeds beneficial skin bacteria, supporting a healthy microbiome and balanced complexion.
Supergreens Blend
Kale, Wheatgrass, and Nettle extracts are rich in vitamins A, C, and K plus minerals to protect against environmental stressors.
Gentle Surfactants
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate and Coco-Glucoside provide effective cleansing without the harshness of sulfates or stripping natural oils.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains essential oils (Rosemary, Palmarosa, Orange Peel) and Fragrance (Parfum). No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present. ELEMIS advises consulting your doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Oleate, Avocado Oil, Chia Seed Oil, and other fatty acid-rich oils that may feed malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. As a rinse-off product, oils have minimal pore-clogging potential. Non-stripping, pH-balanced formula.
No SLS/SLES, no parabens, no silicones, no harsh alcohols. Uses gentle amino acid-based and sugar-derived surfactants instead.
Contains Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene, Geraniol, and Linalool. Also contains multiple essential oils. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
ELEMIS is a British brand (est. 1989) now owned by L'Occitane Group. They sell in China where post-market animal testing may occur, so the brand is not certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny or PETA.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAlpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide (Prebiotic)Proven
A sugar-derived prebiotic that selectively nourishes beneficial bacteria on the skin's surface. Helps maintain a healthy microbiome balance, supporting the skin's natural defense barrier and reducing sensitivity.
- Function: Feeds good bacteria (probiotics) on the skin, promoting microbiome equilibrium
- Source: Derived from natural sugars via enzymatic process
- Benefit: Studies show prebiotics can reduce skin sensitivity and improve barrier resilience
Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Seed OilPromising
Cold-pressed from broccoli seeds, this oil is uniquely rich in erucic acid and sulforaphane. It provides a natural silicone-like smoothing effect while delivering potent antioxidants to the skin.
- Key Compounds: Rich in omega-9 (erucic acid), vitamin A, and sulforaphane
- Benefit: Provides a light, non-greasy emollient effect and natural shine control
- Antioxidant: Sulforaphane has demonstrated strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) OilProven
A deeply nourishing oil packed with vitamins B, E, and K, along with potassium and lecithin. It helps reinforce the skin's moisture barrier and supports healing of dry, compromised skin.
- Composition: Rich in oleic acid (50–70%), palmitic acid, and linoleic acid
- Research: Studies confirm avocado oil enhances collagen synthesis and reduces inflammatory markers
- Benefit: Excellent emollient that softens and conditions skin during the cleansing step
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed OilPromising
Organic pumpkin seed oil is rich in zinc, vitamins A and E, essential fatty acids, and plant sterols. It helps protect the skin's natural lipid barrier and provides deep nourishment.
- Key Nutrients: Zinc, tocopherols (vitamin E), carotenoids, and phytosterols
- Benefit: Phytosterols help protect skin's lipid barrier and reduce trans-epidermal water loss
- Source: ELEMIS uses organic pumpkin seed oil for superior quality
Kale & Wheatgrass Leaf ExtractsPromising
A supergreens complex providing concentrated botanical antioxidants. Kale is rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and omega fatty acids, while wheatgrass delivers chlorophyll and minerals that help revitalize dull complexions.
- Kale: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K; omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help soothe and hydrate
- Wheatgrass: Contains chlorophyll, amino acids, and minerals with antioxidant properties
- Research: Studies show kale leaf extract is effective at calming inflammation and supporting barrier function
Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed OilPromising
The richest known botanical source of alpha-linolenic acid (50–60% ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid with powerful moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Also contains barrier-repairing linoleic acid.
- Composition: 50–60% alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), 17–26% linoleic acid (omega-6)
- Antioxidants: Contains alpha-lipoic acid, coumaric acid, and caffeic acid
- Benefit: Supports skin barrier function and can help alleviate itchy, irritated skin
49 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates Copolymer, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Lactate, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Dicaprylyl Ether, Lauryl Alcohol, Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Fragrance (Parfum), Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Seed Oil, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Galactoarabinan, Disodium EDTA, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, Limonene, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Caramel, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Juice, Cymbopogon Martini Oil, Geraniol, Linalool, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Brassica Oleracea Acephala (Kale) Leaf Extract, Triticum Aestivum (Wheatgrass) Leaf Extract, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Maltodextrin, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Copper Gluconate, Calcium Gluconate, CI 75810 (Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex), Tocopherol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your primary cleanser morning and evening. For heavy makeup or sunscreen, pair with an oil cleanser first (double-cleanse method) in your PM routine.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Skin
Dispense a pea-sized amount onto fingertips and massage directly onto dry skin using gentle circular motions. This helps the superfood oils make better contact with skin.
Add Warm Water
Wet your hands and add warm water to your face. The gel will transform into a gentle, refreshing lather as you continue to massage.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. Pat your face dry with a clean towel — do not rub.
Follow With Skincare
Apply toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration. Use every morning and evening for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, lackluster skin that needs a radiance boost
- You want a sulfate-free, gentle daily cleanser
- You prefer skincare with botanical, nutrient-rich formulas
- You enjoy a spa-like herbal scent in your routine
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin
- You want microbiome-friendly cleansing with prebiotic support
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a completely fragrance-free cleanser
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You require a certified cruelty-free and vegan product
- You prefer a deep-cleansing exfoliating wash with active acids
- Your skin is extremely dry and you need a cream or milk cleanser
- You are sensitive to essential oils like rosemary or palmarosa
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess oil without stripping. Zinc gluconate helps regulate sebum. Leaves a clean, balanced finish.
Some users find it slightly drying during colder months. Superfood oils add nourishment, but a cream cleanser may be more comfortable for very dry skin.
Ideal match. Balances oily and dry zones effectively. pH-balanced formula (5.5–6.0) respects the skin's natural acid mantle.
Gentle amino acid-based surfactants are well-tolerated. However, contains fragrance and essential oils — patch test recommended for reactive skin.
Non-stripping formula with prebiotic support and low comedogenic risk. Many users report fewer breakouts. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Antioxidant-rich superfoods support aging skin. Gentle enough for daily use without compromising moisture. Doesn't address fine lines directly.
Results timeline
MONTHS 2–3Cleaner, Softer Skin
Skin feels noticeably cleaner without tightness or dryness after each wash. The prebiotic formula starts supporting microbiome balance from first use.
85% noticed softer skin textureImproved Clarity & Reduced Dullness
Complexion begins to look brighter and more even. The supergreen antioxidants start to visibly combat environmental dullness.
72% reported brighter complexionVisible Glow & Balanced Skin
Consistent use reveals a noticeable healthy glow. Skin feels more balanced and less reactive. Fewer minor breakouts reported by many users.
68% noticed a healthy glowImproved Texture & Resilience
Skin texture becomes smoother and more refined with continued use. The microbiome-supporting prebiotic formula delivers cumulative benefits for overall skin health.
60% reported improved overall skin conditionRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle, non-stripping cleansing that leaves skin soft and smooth
- Pleasant spa-like herbal scent that feels refreshing
- Rich in antioxidant superfood ingredients for extra nourishment
- pH balanced (5.5–6.0) — protects skin's natural acid mantle
- Prebiotic formula supports a healthy skin microbiome
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free
- Effective at removing daily makeup without irritation
- A little product goes a long way, making it last months
Criticized
- Contains fragrance and multiple essential oils
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Herbal scent is divisive — not everyone enjoys it
- Can feel slightly drying for dry skin types in winter
- ELEMIS is not certified cruelty-free (sold in China)
- Premium price point for a daily gel cleanser
- Can sting significantly if it gets into eyes
- Superfood benefits may be limited in a rinse-off product
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar superfood concept with kale, spinach, and green tea. Uses a gel-to-foam texture and is vegan/cruelty-free. Slightly higher price per ml but comparable antioxidant approach.
Much simpler formula focused on ceramides and hyaluronic acid for hydration. No superfood antioxidants, but extremely gentle, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive/dry skin. Great value at 473ml.
Antioxidant-rich gel cleanser with matcha and hemp seed oil. Vegan and cruelty-free. Gentler, low-pH formula at a fraction of the price. Lacks the prebiotic complex.
Different texture (balm) but similarly nourishing and gentle. Oat kernel oil provides soothing benefits. Best for drier skin types. No superfood blend but excellent for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the pump cap closed between uses to preserve freshness of botanical oils.
Recyclable plastic pump bottle. Hygienic pump dispenser prevents contamination and dispenses the right amount per use.
The 150ml size exceeds the 100ml TSA limit. A 30ml travel size is available separately. The 200ml bottle is for home use only.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone — the most commonly flagged pregnancy-unsafe ingredients. However, it does contain essential oils (Rosemary, Palmarosa, Orange Peel) and synthetic fragrance (Parfum), which some healthcare providers advise avoiding during pregnancy. ELEMIS officially states their products are not specifically developed for pregnant or breastfeeding women and recommends consulting your doctor before use.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Oleate, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Oil, and other fatty acid-rich plant oils. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or a specifically FA-safe cleanser.
Yes. As a gentle, rinse-off cleanser with a near-skin pH (5.5–6.0), it pairs well with all common active ingredients. The mild formula won't interfere with or deactivate retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs applied afterwards. The gentle surfactants help ensure your skin isn't overly stripped before applying potent actives, reducing the risk of irritation. Simply cleanse, pat dry, and apply your actives as usual.
This cleanser works best for normal, combination, and oily skin types. It's particularly excellent for combination skin due to its balanced, pH-appropriate formula. It also works well for those with dull, lackluster complexions that need a radiance boost. People with very dry skin may find it slightly drying in colder months and might prefer a cream cleanser. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to fragrance and essential oil content.
Most users notice softer, cleaner-feeling skin from the very first use. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, you should see improved skin clarity and reduced dullness. A noticeable healthy glow typically develops within 3–4 weeks. For full benefits including improved skin texture and microbiome balance, allow 2–3 months of regular use. Results are best when paired with a complete skincare routine.
Use it as your primary water-based cleanser, which is Step 1 in the morning and Step 2 in the evening (after an oil cleanser for double cleansing). Apply to dry skin first, then add water to lather. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). For heavy makeup or sunscreen removal, pair with an oil cleanser or balm first in your PM routine.
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. While it contains oils like avocado and pumpkin seed that have moderate comedogenic potential on their own, as a rinse-off product these oils do not remain on the skin long enough to clog pores. The gentle surfactants actually help remove pore-clogging debris. Many users with acne-prone skin report fewer breakouts with regular use.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). With twice-daily use, the 150ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months since only a pea-sized amount is needed per wash. The 200ml bottle can last 3–4 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the pump closed between uses to maximize shelf life and preserve the botanical ingredients.
Verdict: ELEMIS Superfood Facial Wash is a well-formulated, nutrient-rich gel cleanser that delivers on its promise of a gentle yet effective daily cleanse. The prebiotic technology and superfood oil blend set it apart from ordinary gel cleansers, while the pH-balanced, sulfate-free formula makes it suitable for most skin types. It earns high marks for its nourishing ingredients, pleasant user experience, and ability to leave skin feeling clean without tightness. Points are deducted for the presence of fragrance and essential oils (limiting its suitability for very sensitive skin), its failure to meet fungal acne safety standards, and the brand's questionable cruelty-free status. At $25 for 150ml, it's a mid-range investment that most combination and oily skin types will thoroughly enjoy — especially those seeking a more botanical, spa-inspired cleansing experience.
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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|






