Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser

A robust, foaming facial wash formulated with Sodium Laureth Sulfate and milder glucosides to effectively cleanse the skin, balanced by the hydrating properties of Glycerin.

Performance Rating: 4.1

This formula utilizes a robust surfactant system led by Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), ensuring excellent foaming and cleansing capability to remove oil and dirt. The potential harshness of SLES is well-mitigated by the inclusion of milder co-surfactants like Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, and Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate. Additionally, Glycerin serves as a humectant to help maintain skin hydration during the wash, preventing the skin from feeling overly tight.

Safety Rating: 3.6

While generally safe for wash-off products, the presence of Fragrance introduces a risk of irritation or contact dermatitis for sensitive skin types. Sodium Laureth Sulfate, though milder than SLS, can still be drying for compromised skin barriers. The formula also contains PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate and Laureth-4 (ethoxylated ingredients), which some consumers avoid due to trace contamination concerns, although they are deemed safe in cosmetic concentrations.

Final Rating: 3.9

This is a standard, effective facial cleanser best suited for normal to oily skin types that require a thorough cleanse. The balance of strong and mild surfactants creates a product that cleans effectively without being as stripping as older sulfate-based formulas. However, those with dry or sensitive skin might find the combination of sulfates and fragrance potentially irritating.

Verdict

This facial cleanser presents itself as a robust foaming wash, primarily driven by Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). While SLES is sometimes criticized for being overly drying, it is an exceptionally effective cleansing agent that cuts through sebum and product buildup with ease. In this specific formulation, the potential harshness of the sulfate is thoughtfully mitigated by the inclusion of several secondary surfactants. The addition of Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside, and Lauryl Glucoside creates a complex surfactant system. These milder, plant-derived cleansing agents work in tandem to lift dirt without completely stripping the skin’s moisture barrier, offering a more balanced cleanse than a pure sulfate formula. To further counteract the drying effects of the cleansing agents, Glycerin appears as the second ingredient. As a powerful humectant, Glycerin draws moisture into the outer layer of the skin, helping to ensure that the face does not feel tight or “squeaky” after rinsing. The inclusion of Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate adds to the mildness profile, while Glycol Distearate likely gives the product a pearlescent, luxurious texture that feels pleasant during application. However, the formula is not without potential drawbacks for certain users. The inclusion of added Fragrance at the end of the ingredient list provides a sensory experience but poses a risk for those with reactive or sensitive skin. Fragrance mixes are common allergens and can cause irritation or contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Additionally, while the formula is balanced, the presence of sulfates means it might still be too potent for those with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers. Overall, this is a solid choice for individuals with normal to oily skin who require a deep clean to remove daily grime and excess oil. It bridges the gap between a harsh stripping cleanser and a gentle non-foaming wash, providing a satisfying lather without immediate dehydration. If your skin tolerates fragrance and sulfates well, this cleanser will likely serve as an effective daily step in your skincare routine.

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Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvents / 溶剂

🧪 Water / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The base of the formulation.

📁 Humectants & Moisturizers / 保湿剂与吸湿剂

🧪 Glycerin / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Draws moisture into the skin to prevent drying.

🧪 Glycereth-7 / 聚甘油-7

Purpose: Humectant, Emollient

Concerns: None

Notes: A derivative of glycerin that helps provide a smooth feel.

📁 Surfactants & Cleansing Agents / 表面活性剂与清洁剂

🧪 Sodium Laureth Sulfate / 月桂醇聚醚硫酸酯钠

Purpose: Surfactant, Foaming Agent

Concerns: Can be drying or irritating to sensitive skin.

Notes: A strong, effective cleanser widely used in personal care.

🧪 Cocamidopropyl Betaine / 椰油酰胺丙基甜菜碱

Purpose: Amphoteric Surfactant

Concerns: Generally safe, rare sensitization.

Notes: Milder surfactant often used to reduce the harshness of sulfates.

🧪 Decyl Glucoside / 癸基葡糖苷

Purpose: Non-ionic Surfactant

Concerns: None

Notes: Very mild, often found in sensitive skin or baby products.

🧪 Lauryl Glucoside / 月桂基葡糖苷

Purpose: Non-ionic Surfactant

Concerns: None

Notes: Gentle, plant-derived cleanser.

🧪 Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate / 月桂酰肌氨酸钠

Purpose: Surfactant

Concerns: None

Notes: Mild amino-acid based surfactant that aids in foaming.

📁 Texture Enhancers & Thickeners / 质地调节剂与增稠剂

🧪 Glycol Distearate / 二硬脂酸乙二醇酯

Purpose: Opacifier, Pearlizing Agent

Concerns: None

Notes: Gives the cleanser a pearlescent, creamy appearance.

🧪 PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate / PEG-120 甲基葡糖二油酸酯

Purpose: Thickener

Concerns: None

Notes: Highly effective thickener often used to reduce irritation from surfactants.

🧪 Laureth-4 / 月桂醇聚醚-4

Purpose: Emulsifier, Solubilizer

Concerns: Highly comedogenic (pore-clogging).

Notes: Helps mix oil and water but may cause breakouts in acne-prone skin.

📁 Preservatives & Stabilizers / 防腐剂与稳定剂

🧪 Phenoxyethanol / 苯氧乙醇

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: Can be irritating in high concentrations.

Notes: Common alternative to parabens.

🧪 Sodium Benzoate / 苯甲酸钠

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: None

Notes: Effective against fungi and bacteria in acidic environments.

🧪 Citric Acid / 柠檬酸

Purpose: pH Adjuster

Concerns: None

Notes: Used to ensure the product pH is skin-compatible.

🧪 Tetrasodium EDTA / EDTA 四钠

Purpose: Chelating Agent

Concerns: None

Notes: Binds metal ions in water to maintain stability and foam performance.

📁 Fragrance / 香精

🧪 Fragrance / 香精

Purpose: Scent

Concerns: Common allergen and irritant.

Notes: Adds pleasant smell but offers no skincare benefit.