La Roche Posay Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming Cream Face Cleanser - Unscented - 4.2oz: Combination Skin, Oil Control
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This face cleanser contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin, coco-glucoside, and salicylic acid, which provide moisturizing, gentle cleansing, and exfoliating properties. However, the presence of 'parfum/fragrance' is a concern due to potential skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially for sensitive skin. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score, and the inclusion of fragrance detracts from its overall safety profile.
Key ingredients 12
GLYCERINGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is widely used in skincare for its moisturizing properties and is considered safe and effective.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Glycerin helps maintain skin hydration and improves skin barrier function.
COCO-GLUCOSIDEGood
Coco-glucoside is a mild, non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut oil and glucose. It is used for its gentle cleansing properties and is suitable for sensitive skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with coco-glucoside, making it suitable for most skin types.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
SALICYLIC ACIDGood
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) used for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties. It penetrates the pores to remove dead skin cells and reduce acne.
Risks
Overuse can lead to skin irritation and dryness, especially in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It effectively treats acne and improves skin texture by exfoliating dead skin cells.
AQUA/WATERNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It acts as a base for the product and helps dissolve other ingredients. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use in skincare.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in skincare products.
Benefits
Water helps in dissolving other ingredients and provides a base for the formulation.
MYRISTIC ACIDNeutral
Myristic acid is a fatty acid used as a cleansing agent and emulsifier in skincare products. It helps in removing dirt and oil from the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
In rare cases, myristic acid may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
Myristic acid effectively cleanses the skin by removing excess oils and impurities.
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDENeutral
Potassium hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is a strong base and must be used in controlled amounts to avoid skin irritation.
Risks
High concentrations can cause skin irritation and should be avoided.
Benefits
When used appropriately, it helps maintain the stability and effectiveness of the product.
GLYCERYL STEARATE SENeutral
Glyceryl stearate SE is an emulsifier that helps blend water and oil components in skincare products. It is derived from glycerin and stearic acid and is considered safe for use.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps improve the texture and consistency of the product.
STEARIC ACIDNeutral
Stearic acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetics. It helps stabilize formulations and improve texture.
Risks
Stearic acid is generally safe, but in rare cases, it may cause skin irritation.
Benefits
It contributes to the creamy texture of the product and helps maintain its stability.
LAURIC ACIDNeutral
Lauric acid is a fatty acid used for its cleansing properties in skincare products. It helps remove dirt and oil from the skin.
Risks
Lauric acid can cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It is effective in cleansing the skin and removing impurities.
PALMITIC ACIDNeutral
Palmitic acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetics. It helps improve the texture and stability of formulations.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with palmitic acid, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps maintain the consistency and stability of the product.
TETRASODIUM EDTANeutral
Tetrasodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to improve the stability and efficacy of cosmetic formulations. It binds to metal ions, preventing them from affecting the product.
Risks
There are concerns about its environmental impact, but it is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
It enhances the stability and shelf-life of the product.
PARFUM/FRAGRANCEVery Bad
Fragrance is used to impart a pleasant scent to cosmetic products. However, it can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Risks
Fragrance can be a common irritant and may cause allergic reactions or sensitivity.
Benefits
It provides a pleasant scent to the product, enhancing user experience.
Processing
Processed Foods
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