Vegan Ceramide Extra Gentle Face Wash
Vegan Ceramide Extra Gentle Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free gentle face wash formulated with vegan ceramides to cleanse, hydrate, and support your skin's protective barrier. This sulfate-free, light foaming cleanser removes makeup, oil, and impurities without stripping skin, while marshmallow root and calendula extracts calm and soothe sensitive complexions.
Triple Ceramide Complex
Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP to restore and maintain your skin's natural protective barrier function.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Ceramide Complex
Contains Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP to restore and maintain your skin's natural protective barrier function.
Soothing Botanicals
Marshmallow root and calendula extracts work together to calm, soothe, and reduce redness in sensitive skin.
Gentle Amino Acid Surfactants
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate provides effective yet gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils or disrupting skin pH.
Clean Beauty Formula
Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and silicones. Made with plant-derived ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains Glycol Distearate which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Dermatologist and allergy tested for sensitive skin.
Rated 1/5 comedogenic. Non-comedogenic formula unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide Complex (NP, AP, EOP)Proven
A trio of plant-derived ceramides identical to those naturally found in human skin. Makes up approximately 50% of the skin's lipid barrier and is essential for maintaining hydration and protection.
- Function: Restores and strengthens the skin's protective barrier
- Research: Studies show ceramides improve skin hydration by up to 109% and reduce TEWL
- Source: Plant-derived (vegan) lipid concentrate
Marshmallow Root ExtractProven
Althaea Officinalis extract is rich in mucilage, a gel-like substance that forms a protective, soothing layer on the skin to calm irritation and retain moisture.
- Function: Soothes, hydrates, and forms a protective film
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and irritation
- Source: Derived from the marshmallow plant leaf and root
Calendula Flower ExtractProven
Calendula Officinalis has been used for centuries for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Rich in flavonoids and carotenoids.
- Function: Calms inflammation, promotes healing, antioxidant protection
- Research: Clinical studies confirm anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects
- Source: Extracted from calendula (marigold) flowers
Sodium Cocoyl GlutamateGentle
A mild amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut oil and glutamic acid. One of the gentlest cleansing agents available.
- Function: Gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils
- pH: Maintains skin's natural acidic pH (around 5.5)
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and fermented sugar
23 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Coco-Glucoside, Glycol Distearate, Glycerin, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol*, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Xanthan Gum, Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Leaf/Root Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Arginine, Serine, Threonine, Decyl Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin. *Plant source
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night as your first cleansing step. Can be used as a standalone cleanser or as a second cleanser after oil-based makeup remover.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face to dampen skin. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils.
Apply Cleanser
Squeeze a small amount (about a nickel-size) onto your fingertips or palm.
Massage Gently
Work into skin using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid rubbing or tugging.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse clean with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a soft, clean towel—don't rub.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You're looking for a fragrance-free, gentle daily cleanser
- Your skin barrier is compromised or damaged
- You have eczema or rosacea-prone skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free clean beauty products
- You want a cleanser that won't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (use oil cleanser first)
- You prefer a rich, foaming lather
- You have very oily skin and want deep pore cleansing
- You prefer products with added fragrance
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for sensitive skin. NEA accepted, fragrance-free, and dermatologist tested.
Ceramides help retain moisture. Won't strip skin or cause tightness. Perfect for dry, dehydrated skin.
Maintains skin balance without over-cleansing. Great for everyday use morning and night.
Gentle enough for dry areas while still removing oil. May need additional cleansing for T-zone.
May not feel "cleansing enough" for very oily skin. Consider a foaming cleanser instead.
Non-comedogenic and gentle. Great when using acne treatments that cause dryness/irritation.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Clean, Soft Skin
Skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated without tightness or dryness. No residue or film left behind.
95% noticed immediatelyReduced Irritation
Less redness, sensitivity, and irritation. Skin begins to feel more comfortable and balanced.
80% noticed improvementStrengthened Barrier
Skin barrier begins to strengthen. Less reactive to environmental stressors. Improved hydration levels.
70% noticed resultsHealthier, Resilient Skin
Visible improvement in overall skin health. Barrier function restored, skin appears calmer and more radiant.
65% reported significant improvementRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle - doesn't irritate even the most sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free and free from common irritants
- Contains proven ceramide complex for barrier repair
- NEA accepted and dermatologist tested
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free
- Affordable price point for clean beauty
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
- Great for rosacea and eczema-prone skin
Criticized
- Not effective for removing heavy or waterproof makeup
- Tube packaging can be messy (no pump)
- May not feel "cleansing enough" for oily skin types
- Not fungal acne safe (contains glycol distearate)
- 5 oz size runs out relatively quickly
- Some users report slight stinging (rare)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSame ceramide complex (NP, AP, EOP) plus hyaluronic acid. Larger size (12 oz) for better value. Contains parabens as preservatives unlike Pacifica.
Ultra-minimal formula with only 11 ingredients. No ceramides but extremely gentle. Best for those who want the simplest possible formula.
Contains ceramide NP and niacinamide. French pharmacy brand with thermal spring water. Slightly richer texture that some find more hydrating.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed.
Recyclable PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) plastic tube made from sugarcane bio-resin
Yes - 5 fl oz (147ml) is over the TSA limit. Purchase mini size (2 oz) for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes! This face wash is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any ingredients of concern such as retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The formula is fragrance-free and dermatologist tested, making it a gentle choice for expectant and nursing mothers.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Glycol Distearate, which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser instead.
Yes! This gentle cleanser is an excellent choice when using active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. Its mild formula won't add additional irritation or compromise your skin barrier, which is especially important when using potentially irritating actives. The ceramides actually help support your barrier during active use.
This cleanser is best suited for sensitive, dry, normal, and eczema-prone skin types. It's specifically formulated for sensitive skin and is NEA (National Eczema Association) accepted. While it works for combination skin, those with very oily skin may find it doesn't provide enough cleansing power.
You'll notice soft, clean skin immediately after use. Reduced irritation and redness typically appear within 1-2 weeks. Significant barrier improvement and healthier-looking skin usually takes 3-4 weeks of consistent use. For full barrier repair benefits, continue use for 8+ weeks.
This cleanser is your first step in both morning and evening routines. Use it on damp skin, massage gently, then rinse. Follow with toner (optional), serums, moisturizer, and SPF (morning only). If wearing heavy makeup, use an oil-based cleanser first, then follow with this as your second cleanse.
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores. The formula is non-comedogenic and rinses clean without leaving pore-clogging residue. It's suitable for acne-prone skin, though those with fungal acne should choose a different product due to the glycol distearate content.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly closed. The 5 oz tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: Pacifica Vegan Ceramide Extra Gentle Face Wash is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a truly gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that supports barrier health. The triple ceramide complex, soothing botanical extracts, and clean formula make it ideal for sensitive, dry, and eczema-prone skin types. While it's not suitable for fungal acne and may not satisfy those who prefer a richer lather, its NEA acceptance, vegan formulation, and affordable price point make it a standout in the clean beauty category. Perfect for those using active ingredients or recovering from a damaged skin barrier.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|






