Vanicream Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser Refill
Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
The Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser Refill is formulated without common irritants like synthetic fragrances and parabens, which is beneficial for sensitive skin. However, it lacks the inclusion of beneficial natural oils or skin actives that could enhance its safety profile. The product's ingredient list is relatively clean, but the absence of standout natural ingredients or advanced skin actives results in a moderate score.
Key ingredients 11
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is well-tolerated by most skin types and enhances the skin's natural barrier function. It is a common ingredient in skincare for its moisturizing properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Glycerin helps to maintain skin hydration and improve skin barrier function.
WaterNeutral
Water is a universal solvent used to dissolve other ingredients. It is essential for the formulation but does not provide direct skin benefits. It acts as a carrier for other active ingredients.
Risks
There are no known risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
Water helps to hydrate the skin by providing moisture.
Sodium LauroamphoacetateNeutral
Sodium Lauroamphoacetate is a mild surfactant used to cleanse the skin without stripping natural oils. It is often used in formulations for sensitive skin due to its gentle nature. It helps to create a lather and remove dirt and oil.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in some individuals.
Benefits
It provides gentle cleansing suitable for sensitive skin types.
Sodium ChlorideNeutral
Sodium Chloride, or table salt, is used to thicken the consistency of cosmetic products. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. It helps to stabilize the formulation.
Risks
Excessive use can lead to dryness or irritation.
Benefits
Helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It can also act as a mild exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells. It is generally well-tolerated in low concentrations.
Risks
High concentrations can cause irritation or sensitivity.
Benefits
Helps to maintain the pH balance of the product and can provide mild exfoliation.
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose DioleateNeutral
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate is an emulsifier and thickener used to stabilize formulations. It helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a potential risk of contamination with ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane.
Benefits
Improves the texture and stability of the formulation.
Sodium LaurateNeutral
Sodium Laurate is a surfactant used to cleanse the skin by removing dirt and oil. It is less harsh than sodium lauryl sulfate. It helps to create a lather in cleansing products.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Provides effective cleansing with a lower risk of irritation compared to harsher surfactants.
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl SilaneNeutral
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane is a silicone-based conditioning agent that provides a smooth feel to the skin. It helps to improve the spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause build-up on the skin with prolonged use.
Benefits
Enhances the texture and application of the product.
Sodium Lauroyl SarcosinateBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides effective cleansing while being gentle on the skin.
Potassium SorbateBad
Synthetic preservative — flagged in daily-use products.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Prevents microbial growth, ensuring product safety and longevity.
Tetrasodium EDTABad
Tetrasodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to improve the stability of cosmetic formulations. It binds to metal ions, preventing them from affecting the product's stability. However, it is a synthetic ingredient with potential environmental concerns.
Risks
May cause irritation and has environmental persistence concerns.
Benefits
Improves product stability by binding metal ions.
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