XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, soap-free cleansing oil formulated with postbiotic I-Modulia® and Cer-Omega to soothe very dry, itchy skin prone to atopic eczema. Clinically proven to reduce itching by 95% in 3 weeks while restoring the skin barrier. Safe for newborns, infants, children, and adults on face, body, and scalp.
Postbiotic I-Modulia®
Patented extract from Aquaphilus Dolomiae reduces itching by 95% and calms inflammation within 3 weeks.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPostbiotic I-Modulia®
Patented extract from Aquaphilus Dolomiae reduces itching by 95% and calms inflammation within 3 weeks.
Cer-Omega Technology
Evening primrose-derived lipids rich in Omega-6 repair and strengthen the skin barrier.
Avène Thermal Spring Water
Clinically proven in 150+ studies to soothe, soften, and calm sensitive skin.
Microbiome Respect
Soap-free formula preserves the skin's natural microbiome balance while cleansing gently.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Gentle formula safe for pregnant and nursing mothers.
Contains Polysorbate 20, Evening Primrose Oil esters, Jojoba Oil, and Glyceryl Oleate which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 comedogenic. Brand-tested non-comedogenic formula designed to not clog pores.
Pediatrician-tested and suitable for newborns, infants, children, and adults. Can be used during eczema flare-ups.
Formulated to not sting eyes, making it safe for facial cleansing including around the eye area.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Can be used AM and PM as a gentle cleanser.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSI-Modulia® (Aquaphilus Dolomiae Extract)Proven
A patented postbiotic active ingredient derived from bacteria found exclusively in Avène Thermal Spring Water. Result of 12 years of research by Pierre Fabre Laboratories.
- Anti-Itch Action: Inhibits PAR-2 receptor activation that triggers itching sensation
- Immune Modulation: Reduces inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-17) involved in eczema
- Skin Defense: Stimulates antimicrobial peptides (hBD-2, cathelicidin, psoriasin) through TLR-5 activation
- Clinical Result: 95% reduction in itching after 3 weeks of use
Cer-Omega (Evening Primrose Oil/Palm Oil Aminopropanediol Esters)Proven
Biomimetic lipids that closely resemble the natural lipids found in healthy skin. Rich in Omega-6 fatty acids essential for skin barrier function.
- Barrier Repair: Replenishes ceramide-like lipids depleted in eczema-prone skin
- Hydration: Provides 24-hour moisturization and protects against water's drying effects
- Nourishment: Strengthens the hydrolipidic film for better resistance to external aggressors
Avène Thermal Spring Water Primary BaseProven
Unique low-mineral thermal water that takes a 50-year journey through the Cévennes Mountains, acquiring a balanced concentration of silicates, calcium, and magnesium.
- Clinical Proof: Validated in 150+ clinical studies for soothing properties
- Microbiome: Contains unique Aquaphilus Dolomiae microflora found nowhere else on Earth
- Skin Benefits: Soothes, softens, and calms irritated skin immediately upon application
Glycerin High %Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain optimal hydration levels throughout cleansing.
- Hydration: Pulls water from deeper skin layers and environment to surface
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state
- Safety: Comedogenicity rating of 0, non-irritating for sensitive skin
Jojoba Seed OilPromising
A wax ester that closely mimics human sebum, providing natural lubrication and moisture retention without clogging pores.
- Sebum-Like: Chemically similar to skin's natural oils for better absorption
- Vitamin E: Contains natural antioxidants for skin protection
- Wound Healing: Traditional use by Indigenous cultures for burns and skin repair
20 ingredients
Avène Thermal Spring Water (Avene Aqua), Glycerin, Water (Aqua), Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Decyl Glucoside, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Chloride, Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol, Aquaphilus Dolomiae Extract, Arginine, Citric Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Evening Primrose Oil/Palm Oil Aminopropanediol Esters, Glyceryl Oleate, Glycine, Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Tocopherol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first or only cleanser in shower or bath. For best results, follow with XeraCalm A.D. Cream (dry skin) or Balm (very dry skin). Can be used AM and PM.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Skin
In the shower, wet your face, body, or scalp with warm water. For bath use, run warm water into the tub.
Apply the Cleansing Oil
Pump product into wet hands and lather. For bath, add 5 pumps directly into running bath water.
Massage Gently
Apply to skin using gentle circular motions. Safe for face, body, scalp, and even during eczema flare-ups.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and gently pat skin dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply XeraCalm A.D. Cream (very dry skin) or Balm (severely dry skin) while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have atopic dermatitis or eczema-prone skin
- Your skin is very dry and prone to itching
- You need a gentle cleanser for your baby or child
- You want a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic option
- You're looking for something safe during eczema flare-ups
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- Other cleansers leave your skin feeling stripped
- You need a cleanser for face, body, and scalp
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You need a strong makeup remover (this is light)
- You prefer a thick, traditional oil cleanser texture
- You're looking for a foaming, lathering experience
- You have oily skin and want a mattifying cleanser
- You're on a tight budget (premium price point)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for dry skin. Lipid-replenishing formula prevents tightness and dryness after cleansing.
Primary target skin type. I-Modulia® clinically proven to reduce itching by 95% in 3 weeks. Safe during flare-ups.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, minimal ingredient formula. Formulated to minimize allergic reactions.
Gentle and effective for normal skin types. May be too gentle if you need heavy makeup removal.
May feel too nourishing for very oily skin. Better suited as a gentle first cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser.
Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores. However, NOT safe for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20 and oils.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEImmediate Comfort & Itch Relief
Skin feels soft, soothed, and nourished immediately after first application. I-Modulia® begins calming the itch sensation.
85% noticed reduction in itchingVisible Soothing & Reduced Irritation
Skin barrier begins to restore. Redness and irritation visibly reduced. Skin feels more comfortable throughout the day.
100% felt skin was soft, soothed, nourishedSignificant Itch Reduction
Dramatic improvement in itching symptoms. Skin barrier function restored. Fewer flare-ups and longer periods of comfort.
95% reduction in itchingMaintained Skin Health
Continued use helps maintain skin barrier integrity, prevents future flare-ups, and keeps skin comfortable and hydrated.
Sustained results with daily useRatings by platform
930+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dramatically reduces itching from first use
- Extremely gentle, doesn't strip or dry skin
- Safe for newborns, infants, and during flare-ups
- Fragrance-free with minimal allergens
- Can be used on face, body, and scalp
- Clinically proven with 150+ studies
- Works well as sunscreen remover
- Leaves skin soft and nourished
Criticized
- Premium price point ($32+ for 400ml)
- Not effective for heavy makeup removal
- Texture is watery, not traditional oil
- Not fungal acne safe
- May leave slight oily residue for some
- Limited availability in some regions
- Some find it too gentle for oily skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar gentle cleansing oil for eczema-prone skin with glycerin and niacinamide. Contains fragrance unlike XeraCalm. Lacks I-Modulia® postbiotic technology.
Drugstore alternative with castor oil and soybean oil. Contains panthenol for soothing. Has fragrance and lacks the anti-itch postbiotic technology.
French pharmacy competitor with niacinamide and shea butter. Contains fragrance. Uses Aqua Posae Filiformis probiotic instead of I-Modulia®.
Drugstore option with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. More foaming texture. Lacks specific eczema-targeting postbiotic but still gentle for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Eucerin pH5 Shower Oil
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature. Bathroom storage is fine.
Pump bottle design for hygienic dispensing. 100% recyclable packaging. Airless pump prevents contamination.
400ml exceeds carry-on limits. Consider decanting into smaller container for travel, or purchase the smaller size if available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients that are contraindicated during pregnancy. It's a gentle, hypoallergenic formula that can be used safely throughout pregnancy and while nursing.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast including Polysorbate 20, Evening Primrose Oil/Palm Oil Aminopropanediol Esters, Jojoba Seed Oil, and Glyceryl Oleate. If you're prone to fungal acne, look for alternatives without these ingredients.
Yes, this cleansing oil is compatible with all common active ingredients. As a rinse-off cleanser, it won't interfere with your treatment products. Its gentle, non-stripping formula actually helps maintain skin barrier integrity, which is especially important when using potent actives like retinol or exfoliating acids.
This product is specifically formulated for very dry skin prone to atopic eczema and itching. It's excellent for sensitive skin, dry skin, and eczema-prone skin. It's also suitable for normal skin types who want a gentle cleanser. It may be too nourishing for very oily skin types but can work as part of a double-cleansing routine.
Many users report immediate relief from itching and skin comfort from the first use (85% in clinical studies). Within 1 week, 100% of users in studies reported skin felt soft, soothed, and nourished. The most significant results—95% reduction in itching—are typically seen after 3 weeks of consistent use.
Use it as the first step in your routine for both AM and PM. Apply to wet skin in the shower or bath, massage gently, then rinse. You can follow with a second water-based cleanser if desired (double cleansing), then continue with toner, serum, and moisturizer. For best results, follow with XeraCalm A.D. Cream or Balm.
This product is rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale, which is very low. Avène specifically states it's non-comedogenic and won't clog pores. The formula was designed to be gentle enough for eczema-prone skin while maintaining clear pores. However, as with any product, individual reactions may vary.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months, meaning it should be used within 12 months of first opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The pump bottle design helps maintain product hygiene and prevents contamination during use.
Verdict: Avène XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil is a clinically-proven, dermatologist-recommended solution for very dry, itchy, and eczema-prone skin. The patented I-Modulia® postbiotic technology delivers impressive results with 95% itch reduction in 3 weeks, backed by over 150 clinical studies. Its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula is safe for the whole family including newborns. While the premium price point and lack of fungal acne safety may be drawbacks for some, this is an exceptional choice for anyone struggling with atopic dermatitis or chronic skin dryness. The science-backed formulation and gentle cleansing action make it worth the investment for those who need it most.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate
Humectant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|