The Cleanser
The Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH-balanced foaming cleanser that removes makeup and impurities while preserving your skin's natural moisture barrier. Formulated with Dr. Barbara Sturm's signature Purslane extract for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection, this luxury cleanser leaves skin calm, hydrated, and perfectly prepped for your skincare routine.
Anti-Inflammatory Purslane
Dr. Sturm's signature ingredient rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to calm and soothe skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAnti-Inflammatory Purslane
Dr. Sturm's signature ingredient rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to calm and soothe skin.
pH-Balanced Formula
Maintains skin's natural pH of 5.5, protecting the acid mantle and preventing barrier disruption.
Gentle Foam Technology
Uses mild tensides derived from coconut and sugar for effective cleansing without stripping.
Hydrating Complex
Glycerin, Panthenol (B5), and Urea work together to retain moisture and support skin repair.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid at less than 2% concentration, which is considered safe during pregnancy according to the brand and dermatological guidelines.
Free from oils, fatty acids, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Listed as safe on simpleskincarescience.com.
Oil-free, lightweight foam formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Fragrance-free, pH-balanced formula with soothing aloe vera and panthenol. Designed to respect the skin barrier.
Contains Lactobacillus/Portulaca Oleracea Ferment Extract and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate as natural preservatives.
Preserved with Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, and Sodium Benzoate for product stability and safety.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPurslane Extract (Portulaca Oleracea)Hero Ingredient
Dr. Barbara Sturm's signature ingredient, known as the "vegetable for long life" in traditional medicine. This powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory extract is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and glutathione.
- Study: Research published in PMC shows purslane extract provides significant antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects against UV-induced skin damage.
- Benefit: Helps soothe irritation, protect against free radicals, and support skin regeneration.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceProven
A well-known soothing and hydrating botanical that helps repair and rejuvenate the skin. Contains vitamins A, C, and E along with polysaccharides that bind moisture to skin.
- Function: Soothes irritation, provides anti-inflammatory benefits, and supports wound healing.
- Benefit: Helps calm redness and maintain skin hydration during cleansing.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) MoisturizingProven
A powerful humectant that penetrates the skin and converts to vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). Known for its excellent moisturizing and skin-repairing properties.
- Research: Studies show panthenol helps skin produce more lipids for a stronger barrier.
- Benefit: Attracts and retains moisture, soothes inflammation, and accelerates skin healing.
Urea HydratingProven
A naturally-occurring compound in skin that acts as both a humectant and gentle exfoliant. Part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF).
- Function: Draws moisture into the skin while gently softening dead skin cells.
- Benefit: Improves skin texture and enhances penetration of other active ingredients.
Mild Tensides ComplexGentle Cleansing
A blend of gentle, plant-derived surfactants including Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, and Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate.
- Source: Derived from coconut and sugar-based ingredients for gentle yet effective cleansing.
- Benefit: Removes makeup and impurities without stripping skin's natural oils or disrupting the barrier.
Salicylic Acid <2%BHA
A beta-hydroxy acid that helps soften dead skin cells and keep pores clean. Used at a low concentration as a mild preservative and gentle exfoliant.
- Concentration: Less than 2%, making it pregnancy-safe according to dermatological guidelines.
- Benefit: Helps maintain clear pores without irritation or dryness.
19 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Lauryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Panthenol, Urea, Lactobacillus/Portulaca Oleracea Ferment Extract, Citric Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Salicylic Acid, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Pantolactone, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening. For heavy makeup or SPF, consider double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser first.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Before Use
Gently shake the bottle to activate the foam formula and ensure proper dispensing.
Dispense Foam
Pump a small amount of foam (about the size of a golf ball) into the palm of your hand. A little goes a long way!
Apply to Face
Gently massage the foam over your face using circular motions, focusing on areas with makeup, oil, or congestion.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive or reactive skin that gets irritated by most cleansers
- You want a gentle cleanser that won't strip your skin or disrupt your barrier
- You prefer foam cleansers with a lightweight, airy texture
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe daily cleanser
- You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe product
- You value luxury, clean skincare with science-backed ingredients
- You wear light to medium makeup and want effective daily cleansing
Consider alternatives if:
- You wear heavy, waterproof, or long-wearing makeup (may need double cleanse)
- You prefer a deep-cleansing feel with more "squeaky clean" results
- You're on a tight budget (this is a premium-priced cleanser)
- You prefer oil-based or balm cleansers for makeup removal
- You want a cleanser with active exfoliating benefits
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESFragrance-free, pH-balanced formula with soothing purslane and aloe. Designed specifically to respect sensitive skin barriers.
Perfect daily cleanser that maintains skin's natural balance without over-cleansing or drying.
Effectively cleanses oily T-zone without stripping drier areas. Balances well across different face zones.
Gentle and hydrating with glycerin and panthenol, but very dry skin may prefer a cream or oil cleanser.
Lightweight foam won't add oil, but those who prefer a deeper cleansing feel may find it too gentle.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne-safe formula with mild salicylic acid. Won't aggravate breakouts.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEClean, Comfortable Skin
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated without any tightness, dryness, or residue. No irritation or redness.
98% noticed clean, refreshed skinImproved Skin Balance
Skin's natural pH balance is maintained. Reduced sensitivity and irritation from previous harsh cleansers.
85% noticed calmer, more balanced skinEnhanced Skin Texture
Better absorption of subsequent skincare products. Smoother, more refined skin texture with reduced minor breakouts.
78% noticed improved skin textureHealthy, Glowing Complexion
Long-term barrier health maintained. Skin looks healthy, clear, and bright when used as part of a consistent routine.
92% would repurchaseRatings by platform
459+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle - doesn't strip or dry out skin
- No tightness or residue after cleansing
- Perfect for sensitive and reactive skin types
- pH-balanced to protect skin barrier
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Clean, luxury ingredients with scientific backing
- A little product goes a long way
- Leaves skin soft, calm, and hydrated
- Great for morning cleansing routine
Criticized
- Very expensive for a face cleanser ($80/150ml)
- May not remove heavy or waterproof makeup
- Foam format means you're paying for mostly air
- Some find it too gentle for deep cleansing
- Similar results achievable with cheaper alternatives
- Bottle size seems small for the price
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Excellent drugstore option with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Similar gentle cleansing without stripping. Lacks the luxury purslane extract but delivers comparable hydration.
Dermatologist-recommended gentle cleanser with prebiotic thermal water and ceramides. Equally suitable for sensitive skin at a fraction of the price.
Ultra-gentle balm-to-oil cleanser that removes makeup without stripping. Different texture but similarly gentle on skin. Amazing value.
Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive skin. Free from dyes, fragrance, parabens, and sulfates. Very basic but effective gentle cleansing.
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 at room temperature.
Foam pump bottle that dispenses ready-to-use mousse. Shake before use.
Yes, 150ml is over the 100ml carry-on limit but suitable for checked luggage. Decant for carry-on travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, The Cleanser is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While it contains salicylic acid, the concentration is less than 2%, which is considered safe during pregnancy according to dermatological guidelines. The brand has confirmed this product is pregnancy-safe. However, as always, consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes, The Cleanser is fungal acne safe. It is listed on simpleskincarescience.com's comprehensive fungal acne-safe product list. The formula is oil-free and does not contain fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. The fermented ingredients (purslane ferment, radish root ferment) have been verified as safe for malassezia-prone skin.
Yes, The Cleanser is compatible with all active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. As a rinse-off product, it cleanses the skin without leaving residue that could interact with your other skincare. Its pH-balanced formula actually helps prepare your skin for better absorption of subsequent treatments. Just ensure you apply your actives after cleansing and allow proper wait times if needed.
The Cleanser is excellent for all skin types but particularly shines for sensitive, normal, and combination skin. Its gentle, pH-balanced formula respects the skin barrier while effectively cleansing. Those with very oily skin who prefer a deeper cleanse may find it too gentle. Dry skin types will appreciate its hydrating properties but may prefer a cream or oil cleanser for even more moisture.
You'll notice immediate results after the first use—clean, soft, hydrated skin without tightness or dryness. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you may notice improved skin balance and reduced sensitivity. After 4 weeks, expect better skin texture and enhanced absorption of your other skincare products. The anti-inflammatory benefits of purslane become more apparent with continued use.
The Cleanser should be used as the first step (or second step if double cleansing) in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. For heavy makeup or sunscreen, use an oil-based cleanser first, then follow with The Cleanser as your second cleanse. After cleansing, proceed with toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
No, The Cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 and will not clog pores. The formula is completely oil-free and uses gentle, non-comedogenic surfactants derived from coconut and sugar. It's suitable for acne-prone skin and won't cause or worsen breakouts. The mild salicylic acid content actually helps keep pores clean.
The Cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The foam pump packaging helps protect the formula from contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.
The Cleanser effectively removes light to medium makeup and daily impurities. However, for heavy, waterproof, or long-wearing makeup and sunscreen, Dr. Sturm recommends double cleansing—using an oil-based cleanser or balm first to break down makeup, followed by The Cleanser as your second cleanse for a thorough yet gentle finish.
At $80 for 150ml, The Cleanser is a premium-priced product. Its value depends on your priorities: if you have sensitive skin that reacts to most cleansers, value luxury formulations with science-backed ingredients like purslane, and appreciate the gentle yet effective cleansing experience, it may be worth the investment. However, comparable gentle cleansing can be achieved with drugstore alternatives like CeraVe or La Roche-Posay at a fraction of the cost.
Verdict: Dr. Barbara Sturm The Cleanser is a beautifully formulated, gentle foam cleanser that excels at what it promises—cleansing without compromising your skin barrier. The signature purslane extract provides genuine anti-inflammatory benefits, and the pH-balanced formula is perfect for sensitive and reactive skin types. It's pregnancy-safe, fungal acne-safe, and leaves skin feeling clean yet hydrated. However, the $80 price tag for a rinse-off product is hard to justify when drugstore alternatives offer similar gentle cleansing at a fraction of the cost. Best for those who value luxury ingredients and have sensitive skin that hasn't responded well to other cleansers.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|