Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser
Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, soap-free foaming gel cleanser from La Roche-Posay, formulated for sensitive and allergy-prone skin. This French pharmacy classic uses a soft surfactant blend with thermal spring water to lift away makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and excess oil without disturbing the skin barrier or leaving a tight, stripped feeling. Clinically proven to reduce stinging by 77%, dryness by 55%, and tightness by 98% after four weeks of twice-daily use.
Barrier-Friendly Cleansing
Mild surfactant blend cleanses without compromising the skin's protective barrier or natural pH.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier-Friendly Cleansing
Mild surfactant blend cleanses without compromising the skin's protective barrier or natural pH.
Glycerin-Rich Hydration
Glycerin sits as the second ingredient, helping skin feel soft and supple even after rinsing.
Clinically Proven Comfort
In a 4-week trial, 77% less stinging and 100% less itching were reported by sensitive-skin users.
Removes Light Makeup & SPF
Effectively lifts away daily makeup, mineral sunscreen, and pollution without leaving residue.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Considered safe for use during all trimesters and while nursing.
As a rinse-off cleanser with no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates, it's considered safe for malassezia-prone skin.
Tested non-comedogenic. Comedogenic rating of 1/5 — very low risk of clogging pores.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. Apply actives after cleansing and patting dry.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate appears mid-list at low concentration. Generally well-tolerated but very dry or compromised skin may prefer a sulfate-free option.
Ophthalmologist-tested and gentle around the eyes, but avoid getting product directly into eyes — rinse thoroughly if it happens.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5–10%Proven
A natural humectant and the second ingredient in this formula, meaning it's present at a meaningful concentration. Glycerin attracts water from the air and deeper skin layers to keep the surface hydrated, which is critical in a cleanser to offset the drying potential of surfactants.
- Source: A 2016 review in the International Journal of Toxicology classifies glycerin as one of the most effective and well-tolerated humectants in cosmetic chemistry.
- Function: Helps skin feel soft and non-tight after rinsing.
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate ~3–5%Proven
An ultra-mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut. Listed third on the ingredient list, this is the primary cleansing agent in the formula. It's the same family of cleansers used in baby shampoos because it's gentle enough not to sting the eyes.
- Source: CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) panels rate amphoteric surfactants like cocoamphodiacetate as low-irritation and safe for sensitive skin.
- Function: Lifts dirt, oil, and makeup while reducing the harshness of stronger surfactants in the blend.
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate ~2–4%Proven
A non-ionic emulsifier and viscosity builder that gives the gel its silky, smooth glide. It also acts as a "skin feel modifier," softening the touch of surfactants on the skin's surface.
- Source: Personal Care Magazine notes PEG-120 derivatives are widely used in mild cleansers because they reduce surfactant-induced irritation.
- Function: Improves rinse-off and prevents the squeaky-clean stripped feel.
Coco-Betaine ~2–3%Proven
An amphoteric secondary surfactant derived from coconut oil. Coco-betaine works in synergy with the primary cleansers to create a soft, low-foam lather while reducing the irritation potential of harsher surfactants.
- Source: The Personal Care Products Council recognizes coco-betaine as safe at concentrations up to 23% in rinse-off formulas.
- Function: Creates a creamy, mild foam.
Butylene Glycol ~1–3%Proven
A small humectant and solvent that boosts the hydrating effect of glycerin and helps other ingredients dissolve evenly into the formula. Lighter and less sticky than glycerin alone.
- Source: The CIR Expert Panel has affirmed butylene glycol as safe in cosmetic use up to 50%.
- Function: Carrier and conditioning agent.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) <1–2%Promising
A widely-used anionic surfactant that boosts foam and cleansing power. Note: SLES is not the same as SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) — it's milder due to ethoxylation, which makes it less likely to disrupt the skin barrier. Its position low on the ingredient list suggests minimal use.
- Source: A 2010 Final Report on Sodium Laureth Sulfate (CIR) found it safe in rinse-off products at typical use concentrations.
- Function: Foam booster and co-surfactant.
14 ingredients
Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Poloxamer 184, Butylene Glycol, Coco-Betaine, Glycol Distearate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Glycolate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening as the first step of your skincare routine. For heavy makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse: oil cleanser first, then this gel.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet face with lukewarm water
Avoid hot water — it strips the skin barrier. Lukewarm temperature opens the pores enough for effective cleansing.
Dispense a small amount
Pump a coin-sized amount (about 1–2 pumps) into damp hands. A little goes a long way thanks to the gel concentration.
Lather between palms
Rub hands together to activate a soft, low foam. The lather is intentionally gentle — don't expect a thick, dense foam.
Massage in circular motions
Apply to face for 30–60 seconds, focusing on the T-zone. Avoid scrubbing — let the surfactants do the work.
Rinse thoroughly & pat dry
Splash with cool water to rinse, then pat (don't rub) dry with a soft towel. Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or allergy-prone skin
- You want a fragrance-free, no-fuss daily cleanser
- You prefer a foaming gel texture over creams or oils
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You have combination or normal skin and dislike "tight" feeling after washing
- You wear light makeup and SPF and want a single-step cleanse
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin (try Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser instead)
- You want a totally sulfate-free formula
- You wear heavy waterproof makeup (use an oil cleanser first)
- You want active ingredients in your cleanser (this is a basic gentle cleanser)
- You have a known coco-derivative allergy
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRemoves excess sebum without over-stripping. Won't trigger reactive oil production.
Glycerin helps offset surfactant dryness, but very dry skin may prefer the cream cleanser version.
Balances cleanse on the T-zone while staying gentle on drier cheeks. Ideal middle-ground formula.
Specifically designed for sensitive skin. Clinical trial showed 77% less stinging after 4 weeks.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe. Doesn't treat acne but won't aggravate breakout-prone skin.
Gentle enough for thinning, more fragile skin. Won't disrupt the moisture barrier you're working to support.
Results timeline
AFTER 4 WEEKSClean, comfortable feel
Skin feels clean without tightness or squeaky-clean stripping. Makeup and SPF rinse off cleanly.
92% noticed cleaner skinReduced reactivity
Less stinging from follow-up products. Skin tolerates serums and treatments more comfortably.
77% less stinging reportedImproved barrier feel
Skin feels softer, less tight, and more balanced through the day. Less compulsion to over-moisturize.
98% less tightnessFull barrier comfort
Marked reduction in dryness, itching, and overall sensitivity signs. Skin looks calmer and more even.
55% less dryness · 100% less itchingRatings by platform
52K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven for sensitive skin (4-week dermatologist study)
- Doesn't strip or leave a tight, dry feel
- Affordable price for a French pharmacy brand
- Fragrance-free and pregnancy-safe
- Soft, gentle foam — eye-area friendly
- Removes light makeup and SPF effectively
- Recommended by dermatologists worldwide
- Available in refill format (eco-friendly)
Criticized
- Contains SLES (some users prefer fully sulfate-free)
- Foam is light — not for those who love rich lather
- Won't remove heavy waterproof makeup alone
- No active ingredients (no niacinamide, no ceramides in this version)
- Pump quality is inconsistent on some bottles
- Basic formula — nothing innovative
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Adds ceramides and niacinamide for extra barrier support. Slightly stronger cleanse — better for oilier skin types but still gentle.
Sister French pharmacy brand (also L'Oréal-owned). Similar mineral water base with comparable mildness — a true cousin formula.
Different texture (cleansing lotion, not foam) but targets the same ultra-sensitive consumer. Even shorter ingredient list.
Another French pharmacy alternative with a similar gentle gel-foam texture. More hydrating finish thanks to hyaluronic acid derivatives.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Avène Tolerance Daily Foaming Cleanser
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Bathroom storage is fine — formula is stable.
Pump bottle (200ml/400ml). Recyclable plastic; refill pouch available in select markets.
200ml exceeds airline carry-on limits — decant into a smaller bottle for travel. 400ml is for home use only.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters — the main ingredient categories typically avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's a basic gentle cleanser made of water, glycerin, mild surfactants, and a chelator. It is widely considered safe for use throughout all trimesters and during nursing. Always consult your OB-GYN if you have specific concerns.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, the contact time is too brief to feed malassezia even if questionable ingredients were present. More importantly, the formula contains no fatty acids (C11–C24), no fatty alcohols, no esters, and no polysorbates — the four ingredient categories most associated with fungal acne flare-ups. It is widely recommended in fungal acne communities as a safe daily cleanser.
Yes — and it's actually an ideal companion to active ingredients. Because it's gentle and doesn't disrupt the skin barrier, it leaves your skin in optimal condition to receive actives. Use this cleanser first, pat skin dry, then apply your retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA serum as directed. There are no ingredient conflicts to worry about.
It's best for sensitive, normal, combination, and mildly oily skin. The formula was specifically engineered for reactive, sensitive, and allergy-prone skin types — clinical testing showed significant reductions in stinging, tightness, and itching after 4 weeks of use. Very dry or eczema-flare skin may prefer the cream-based Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser instead, which has less surfactant action.
Comfort is immediate — most users notice the lack of tightness from the first wash. La Roche-Posay's clinical study (4 weeks, twice-daily use, 52 sensitive-skin participants) showed measurable improvements: 77% reduction in stinging, 55% less dryness, 98% less tightness, and 100% less itching by week 4. For full barrier comfort benefits, give it at least 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use.
It's the first step of your routine, both morning and evening. In the AM: cleanser → toner (optional) → serum → moisturizer → sunscreen. In the PM: makeup/SPF removal (oil cleanser if needed) → this cleanser → toner → serum/treatment → moisturizer. For heavy makeup or sunscreen, double-cleansing (oil cleanser first, then this) is recommended.
No — it's officially non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (very low risk). The formula contains no oils, no butters, and no waxes. As a rinse-off product, even any potentially comedogenic ingredient would have minimal contact time with skin. It's a safe choice for acne-prone and clog-prone skin types.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — indicated by the "12M" symbol on the bottle. With twice-daily use, the 200ml typically lasts 3–4 months and the 400ml about 6–8 months, so most users will finish the bottle well before the formula expires. Store in a cool, dry place. If you notice any change in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: A reliable, affordable, dermatologist-loved staple. The Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser delivers exactly what it promises — a gentle, fragrance-free daily cleanse that respects sensitive skin while still leaving skin feeling truly clean. Backed by solid clinical data (77% less stinging, 100% less itching at 4 weeks), made in France, and priced fairly for a French pharmacy product. It's not flashy, it doesn't have trendy actives, and it doesn't pretend to be more than a cleanser — and that's precisely why it's been a global bestseller for so long. Highly recommended for sensitive, combination, normal, and mildly oily skin types looking for a no-drama daily cleanser.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Poloxamer 184
Emulsifying
|
|