Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Cream-to-Foam Cleanser Fragrance-Free 12 oz
Summary
This face wash contains some synthetic ingredients typical of processed personal care products, but it avoids harsh surfactants like SLS and SLES, which is beneficial for skin health. The absence of synthetic fragrance is a positive aspect, reducing the risk of skin irritation. However, the presence of some synthetic emulsifiers and preservatives prevents it from achieving a higher score.
At a glance
Key ingredients 18
Glycerin
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to maintain hydration. It is commonly used in skincare products for its moisturizing properties. It is generally well-tolerated and suitable for sensitive skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very rare cases.
Benefits
Glycerin helps to keep the skin hydrated and can improve skin barrier function.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, used to create foam and cleanse the skin. It is often used in formulations to reduce the harshness of other surfactants. It is generally considered safe for most skin types.
Risks
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or irritation, particularly with prolonged use.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing and helps to maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil, known for its ability to cleanse without stripping the skin of natural oils. It is often used in gentle cleansing products. It is considered safe for most skin types.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, especially for those with very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It effectively cleanses while maintaining skin hydration and softness.
Sodium Chloride
Sodium Chloride, or table salt, is used in cosmetics as a thickening agent and to help cleanse the skin. It is generally considered safe in small amounts. It can also help to balance the product's viscosity.
Risks
In high concentrations, it may cause dryness or irritation.
Benefits
It helps to improve the texture and consistency of the product.
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil and glycine, used for its gentle cleansing properties. It is suitable for sensitive skin and helps to maintain the skin's natural moisture. It is often used in formulations for its mildness.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, particularly for those with very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing and helps to maintain skin hydration.
Acrylates Copolymer
Acrylates Copolymer is used in cosmetics as a film-forming agent and to improve the texture of products. It helps to stabilize formulations and provide a smooth application. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and stability of the product.
Palmitic Acid
Palmitic Acid is a fatty acid used in cosmetics for its emollient properties, helping to soften and smooth the skin. It is commonly found in skincare products. It is generally considered safe for most skin types.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to moisturize and improve skin texture.
Centella Asiatica Extract
Centella Asiatica Extract is a botanical ingredient known for its soothing and healing properties. It is often used in skincare for its ability to calm irritated skin and promote wound healing. It is considered beneficial for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Risks
There is a low risk of allergic reactions, though it is generally well-tolerated.
Benefits
It helps to soothe and repair the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate
Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and stability of the product.
Stearic Acid
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid used in cosmetics for its emollient and thickening properties. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for most skin types.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to moisturize and improve the texture of the product.
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate is used as an emulsifier and thickening agent in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and stability of the product.
Butylene Glycol
Butylene Glycol is a humectant used in cosmetics to help retain moisture in the skin. It also acts as a solvent and improves the texture of formulations. It is generally considered safe for most skin types.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to keep the skin hydrated and improves product texture.
Disodium EDTA
Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used in cosmetics to improve stability and prevent metal ion contamination. It helps to enhance the efficacy and shelf life of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize formulations and improve product efficacy.
Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used in cosmetics to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life. It is commonly used as an alternative to parabens. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and prevent contamination.
Chlorphenesin
Chlorphenesin is a preservative used in cosmetics to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life. It is often used in combination with other preservatives. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and prevent contamination.
Caprylyl Glycol
Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and skin conditioning agent used in cosmetics to help retain moisture and improve skin texture. It also has antimicrobial properties. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps to keep the skin hydrated and improve product efficacy.
Citric Acid
Citric Acid is used in cosmetics to adjust pH levels and as an exfoliant. It helps to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to exfoliate and brighten the skin, improving texture and tone.
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium Hydroxide is used in cosmetics to adjust pH levels and as a buffering agent. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve product efficacy. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations.
Risks
There is a potential for skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize formulations and improve product efficacy.
Processing
Processed Foods
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