Tea Tree Cica Trouble Cleansing Foam
Tea Tree Cica Trouble Cleansing Foam
Product Description
A gentle yet effective foam cleanser featuring a 5-Tea Tree Complex and Centella Asiatica (Cica) extract to soothe troubled, acne-prone skin while deeply cleansing without stripping moisture. Formulated with 1.8% Salicylic Acid to help clear breakouts and control excess sebum.
โจ Texture & Feel
5-Tea Tree Complex
Jeju-sourced tea tree in 5 different forms (extract, oil, leaf water, flower/leaf/stem extract) for comprehensive antibacterial and soothing benefits.
Centella Asiatica (Cica)
Powerful healing botanical that calms irritation, strengthens the skin barrier, and promotes wound healing for troubled skin.
1.8% Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Oil-soluble exfoliant that penetrates pores to dissolve sebum, unclog pores, and prevent future breakouts.
Dense Bubble Technology
Creates rich, dense foam that deeply cleanses while removing blackheads, whiteheads, and impurities without over-stripping.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains 1.8% Salicylic Acid. While topical salicylic acid up to 2% is generally considered safe per ACOG guidelines, consult your doctor. As a wash-off product, absorption is minimal.
NOT fungal acne safe. Contains fatty acids (Myristic, Lauric, Palmitic, Stearic Acid) and esters (Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Olivate) that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Completed skin irritation testing. Formulated without harsh sulfates, parabens, or artificial colors. However, tea tree oil may cause sensitivity in some individuals.
Both the final product and ingredients are NOT tested on animals. Formulated with vegan-certified ingredients only.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ฟ Tea Tree Complex 5% Proven
Jeju-sourced 5-Tea Tree Complex includes tea tree extract (50,000ppm), leaf oil, leaf water, and flower/leaf/stem extract. Known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and acne-fighting properties.
- Journal of Profiles of Drug Substances: Terpinen components in tea tree help reduce acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes)
- Clinical Studies: Tea tree oil shown to be as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne with fewer side effects
๐งฌ Centella Asiatica Extract 0.1% Proven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this traditional healing herb contains active compounds (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) that calm inflammation and support skin healing.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and soothes irritated, acne-prone skin
- Barrier Support: Stimulates GAG and hyaluronic acid synthesis to strengthen skin barrier
- Wound Healing: Traditionally used for burns, scratches, and eczema treatment
โ๏ธ Salicylic Acid (BHA) 1.8% Proven
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve excess sebum, exfoliate dead skin cells, and prevent acne formation.
- Mechanism: Dissolves bonds between dead skin cells, speeds up cell turnover
- Anti-inflammatory: Part of the aspirin family, helps reduce redness and swelling
- Pore Cleansing: Oil-soluble formula penetrates into pores unlike water-soluble AHAs
๐ง Panthenol (Provitamin B5) Proven
A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture while supporting the skin's natural barrier function and promoting wound healing.
- Hydration: Penetrates into lower skin layers to provide deep moisturization
- Soothing: Calms irritation and reduces redness post-cleansing
๐ Beta-Glucan Proven
A natural polysaccharide that soothes sensitive skin, reduces redness, and provides antioxidant protection while enhancing skin hydration.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm irritated and reactive skin
- Barrier Support: Strengthens the skin's natural defense system
20 ingredients
Purified Water, Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Potassium Hydroxide, Coco-Glucoside, Lauric Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract (50,000ppm), Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Centella Asiatica Extract (1,000ppm), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Sorbitan Olivate, Panthenol, Beta-Glucan, Disodium EDTA, 1,2-Hexanediol
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the second step in double cleansing (after oil cleanser) or as a standalone cleanser for morning routine. For best results, pair with Bring Green Tea Tree Cica Toner and Cream.
๐ How to Use
Wet Your Face
Start with wet hands and damp face. Use lukewarm water for best results.
Create Foam
Squeeze a small amount (less than quarter-sized) onto wet hands and lather until rich, dense bubbles form.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on T-zone and areas prone to congestion.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with toner.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with acne, blackheads, or whiteheads
- Your skin needs sebum control
- You want a cleanser that doesn't leave skin tight
- You prefer K-beauty, vegan, cruelty-free products
- You want to use one cleanser for face and body
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're sensitive to tea tree oil
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all BHAs
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have an aspirin allergy (salicylic acid related)
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Controls excess sebum, deeply cleanses pores, and leaves skin feeling fresh without greasiness.
Balances oily T-zone while not stripping drier cheeks. Provides even cleansing across all zones.
Tea tree + salicylic acid combo effectively targets breakouts. Helps prevent new acne while calming existing inflammation.
Passed skin irritation tests. Cica soothes sensitivity, but tea tree may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test first.
May be too stripping for very dry skin. Consider using only at night or alternating with a gentler cleanser.
๐ Results Timeline
Immediate Cleansing Benefits
Skin feels cleaner and less oily after each use. Pores appear visibly clearer. Some may experience slight adjustment period with tingling.
90% noticed cleaner skinReduced Sebum & Breakouts
Oil production starts to balance. Existing breakouts begin to heal faster. Skin texture starts improving with fewer new pimples forming.
75% saw fewer breakoutsVisible Skin Improvement
Significant reduction in acne and blackheads. Pores appear more refined. Skin looks healthier with more balanced oil-moisture levels.
80% reported clearer skinLong-Term Maintenance
Consistent use maintains clear, balanced skin. Fewer inflammatory breakouts. Skin barrier strengthened with continued Cica benefits.
85% would repurchaseโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Effectively controls oil and sebum
- Creates rich, dense foam with little product
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
- Visible improvement in acne and breakouts
- Large 300ml size offers great value
- Can be used on face and body
- Vegan and cruelty-free formulation
- Passed dermatological testing
โ Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Tea tree scent may be too strong for some
- May be drying for very dry skin
- Contains salicylic acid (pregnancy caution)
- Can cause slight tingling initially
- Not available in travel size
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar salicylic acid + centella formula. Contains lavender oil instead of tea tree. Smaller 150ml size but lower price point. Also targets acne-prone skin.
Triple acid formula (AHA+BHA+PHA) for more exfoliation. Contains tea tree and cica. Smaller 100ml size. Better for stubborn acne but may be more irritating.
Gentler formula with tea tree oil and BHA (Betaine Salicylate). Low pH preserves skin barrier. 150ml size. Better for sensitive skin but less effective on severe acne.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Bring Green Tea Tree Cica Cleansing Foam
$18.00COSRX AC Collection Calming Foam
$12.00Some By Mi Miracle Acne Clear Foam
$13.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent contamination.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap for hygienic dispensing
No - 300ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits. Decant into smaller container for travel.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. This cleanser contains 1.8% Salicylic Acid, which the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers safe in topical formulations up to 2%. As a wash-off product, absorption is minimal. However, if you prefer to avoid all BHAs during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider before use. For breastfeeding, ensure the product doesn't come in contact with areas where baby may latch.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains multiple fatty acids (Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid) and esters (Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Olivate) with carbon chains 12-18 that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser or a fungal acne-safe option.
Yes, but with caution. This cleanser already contains 1.8% Salicylic Acid (BHA), so avoid using additional BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. You can use retinol or vitamin C serums after cleansing, but if you experience irritation, alternate usage days. For AHAs, use on different days or apply them at least 20 minutes after cleansing. Always introduce new actives gradually.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The salicylic acid and tea tree complex help control excess sebum and target breakouts. It's also suitable for sensitive acne-prone skin (passed dermatological testing). However, it may be too stripping for very dry or dehydrated skin types, who should consider a gentler cleanser or use this only at night.
Most users notice cleaner-feeling skin immediately after first use. Reduced oiliness and improved skin clarity typically appear within 1-2 weeks. Significant reduction in acne and breakouts is usually visible by weeks 4-6 with consistent use. For long-term skin improvement and maintained clear skin, continue use for 8+ weeks. Individual results may vary based on skin type and severity of concerns.
Use as the second step in double cleansing (after oil cleanser removes makeup/sunscreen) or as your standalone morning cleanser. Apply to damp skin, massage for 30-60 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Can also be used on body areas prone to acne like back and chest.
The comedogenic rating is 2/5 (low-moderate). While it contains some potentially comedogenic fatty acids like Myristic Acid and Lauric Acid, these are rinse-off ingredients with minimal contact time. The salicylic acid actually helps unclog pores and prevent comedones. Most users don't experience clogged pores from this cleanser, but individual skin chemistry varies.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal efficacy and freshness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight with cap tightly closed. The large 300ml size typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use, well within the PAO window.
Verdict: The Bring Green Tea Tree Cica Trouble Cleansing Foam is an excellent choice for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin seeking effective yet gentle cleansing. The 5-Tea Tree Complex combined with Cica delivers impressive antibacterial and soothing benefits, while 1.8% Salicylic Acid keeps pores clear without over-stripping. The generous 300ml size offers great value, and the vegan, cruelty-free formulation aligns with conscious skincare choices. However, it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to fatty acid content, and those with very dry skin may find it too clarifying. Overall, a solid K-beauty cleanser that delivers on its promises for troubled skin.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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
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.