Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel Cleanser 8.4 oz

Dermalogica
62 Fair
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Summary

This face wash contains some synthetic ingredients, including sodium laureth sulfate, which poses a contamination risk. However, it also includes beneficial components like botanicals and skin-friendly actives. The product is moderately processed, which affects its overall rating, but it avoids the most harmful chemicals found in lower-scoring products.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Unilever
Category Face Wash

Key ingredients 21

Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Neutral

Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate is a mild surfactant used for its cleansing properties. It is less irritating than traditional sulfates like SLS. It helps to create a lather and remove dirt and oil from the skin.

Risks

There is a low risk of skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin types.

Benefits

It provides effective cleansing without the harshness of stronger sulfates.

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Neutral

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is a mild surfactant derived from sarcosine, an amino acid. It is used for its ability to cleanse the skin gently. It is often used in products for sensitive skin due to its mild nature.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It is known for being gentle and less likely to strip the skin of natural oils.

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Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract

Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract is a natural surfactant derived from the soapbark tree. It is used for its foaming and cleansing properties. It is considered a natural and gentle alternative to synthetic surfactants.

Risks

Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It is valued for its natural origin and gentle cleansing action.

Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil

Lavender oil is known for its soothing and calming properties. It is often used in skincare for its potential to reduce redness and irritation. It also provides a pleasant fragrance.

Risks

Potential for skin irritation or allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It can help soothe the skin and provide a calming effect.

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Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract

Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, also known as lemon balm, is used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is beneficial in calming irritated skin. It also has antioxidant properties that can protect the skin.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It is known for its calming and protective effects on the skin.

Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil

Lemon peel oil is used for its refreshing scent and potential astringent properties. It can help to brighten the skin and reduce excess oil. It is also known for its antimicrobial properties.

Risks

Can increase photosensitivity, leading to a higher risk of sunburn.

Benefits

It provides a refreshing scent and can help control oiliness.

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Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil

Bergamot oil is used for its uplifting scent and potential antiseptic properties. It can help to cleanse the skin and provide a refreshing aroma. It is also known for its mood-enhancing effects.

Risks

May cause photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sunburn.

Benefits

It offers a pleasant fragrance and can help cleanse the skin.

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Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) Oil

Citronella oil is known for its insect-repelling properties and fresh scent. It is used in skincare for its potential to reduce oiliness and provide a refreshing aroma. It also has antimicrobial properties.

Risks

Can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides a fresh scent and can help control oiliness.

Glycerin

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It is widely used in skincare for its hydrating properties. It helps to maintain the skin's moisture balance.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It is highly effective at keeping the skin hydrated and soft.

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Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Neutral

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is used to enhance the foaming and cleansing properties of products. It is considered less irritating than traditional sulfates.

Risks

May cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.

Benefits

It provides gentle cleansing and foaming action.

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Coco-Betaine
Neutral

Coco-Betaine is a surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is used for its ability to create foam and cleanse the skin. It is considered mild and suitable for sensitive skin.

Risks

Potential for mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It offers gentle cleansing and foaming properties.

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Hydroxyethylcellulose
Neutral

Hydroxyethylcellulose is a thickening agent used to improve the texture of products. It helps to stabilize formulations and provide a smooth application. It is derived from cellulose, a natural polymer.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It enhances the texture and stability of skincare products.

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Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Neutral

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is used for its gentle cleansing properties and ability to create a creamy lather. It is often used in products for sensitive skin.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It provides effective cleansing without stripping natural oils.

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Capryloyl Glycine
Neutral

Capryloyl Glycine is an amino acid derivative used for its antimicrobial properties. It helps to maintain the skin's natural balance and reduce excess oil. It is often used in formulations for oily or acne-prone skin.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It helps to control oiliness and maintain skin balance.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Neutral

Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate is a mild surfactant used for its cleansing and foaming properties. It is considered less irritating than traditional sulfates like SLS. It is often used in products for sensitive skin.

Risks

May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides effective cleansing with a gentle touch.

Methylpropanediol
Neutral

Methylpropanediol is a solvent and penetration enhancer used in skincare formulations. It helps to improve the absorption of active ingredients. It also provides a smooth texture to products.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It enhances the effectiveness of active ingredients in formulations.

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Ethylhexylglycerin
Neutral

Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative and skin-conditioning agent. It is used to enhance the efficacy of preservatives and improve skin feel. It is considered a safe alternative to parabens.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It helps to preserve formulations and improve skin texture.

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Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Neutral

Caprylhydroxamic Acid is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in formulations. It is often used in combination with other preservatives for broad-spectrum protection. It is considered a safe and effective alternative to traditional preservatives.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It helps to ensure the safety and longevity of skincare products.

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PPG-5-Ceteth-20
Neutral

PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is an emulsifier used to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients. It is commonly used in skincare products for its emulsifying properties.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It enhances the stability and texture of formulations.

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Sodium Hydroxide
Neutral

Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of formulations. It is a strong base that helps to neutralize acidic ingredients. It is used in small amounts to ensure product stability.

Risks

In high concentrations, it can be irritating to the skin.

Benefits

It helps to maintain the desired pH balance in formulations.

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Disodium EDTA
Neutral

Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to improve the stability of formulations. It binds to metal ions to prevent them from affecting product stability. It is commonly used in skincare products to enhance shelf life.

Risks

Generally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.

Benefits

It helps to stabilize formulations and extend shelf life.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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