Mild cleanser – gentle facial cleansing for a strong skin barrier

A gentle cleanser is the foundation of every skincare routine. It removes sebum, makeup, and environmental residues without damaging the skin barrier. Unlike harsh surfactant formulations, it preserves the skin's natural pH balance and lipid structure. This keeps the protective function intact – a prerequisite for healthy, balanced skin.

Why gentle cleansing is crucial

The outer layer of skin (stratum corneum) consists of corneocytes and lipids, which together form a barrier against moisture loss. Harsh cleansers dissolve these lipids and remove essential fatty acids. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2023) showed that anionic surfactants can increase TEWL (transepidermal water loss) by up to 40%, while non-ionic and amphoteric systems help maintain the barrier's stability ( Tan J et al., 2023 ).

Typical formulations of mild cleansers

• Amphoteric surfactants (e.g., cocamidopropyl betaine): particularly skin-friendly, reduce irritation.
• Glucoside surfactants (e.g., decyl or lauryl glucoside): plant-based, biodegradable.
• Humectants (glycerin, panthenol): preserve hydration during cleaning.
• Soothing additives (aloe vera, allantoin, niacinamide): reduce redness and repair the barrier.

pH value and skin compatibility

A mild cleanser should have a pH value between 4.5 and 5.5 – this corresponds to the skin's natural acid mantle. According to Frontiers in Pharmacology (2024), four weeks of using pH-neutral cleansers led to a significant reduction in skin redness and improved lipid organization ( Kim S et al., 2024 ).

Advantages of gentle cleaning

• Protects the skin barrier and reduces irritation
• Suitable for sensitive and combination skin
• Maintains moisture balance and elasticity
• Prepares the skin optimally for serums and skincare.

Combination with NATURFACTOR® care

After cleansing, a moisturizing treatment should follow. The Porcelain Skin Serum firms and repairs the skin barrier, while the Blue Crystal Drops provide additional lipids and antioxidants. This combination supports gentle yet effective post-cleansing care.

Scientific findings on the cleaning balance

A clinical study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2022) confirmed that skin-friendly cleansers with plant-based surfactants maintain microbiome diversity and reduce the risk of irritation by more than 50% ( Rawlings AV et al., 2022 ). At the same time, they improve the absorption of subsequent active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and peptides.

Application and routine

Mild cleansers are applied to damp skin morning and evening, massaged in using circular motions, and then rinsed off with lukewarm water. A pH-balanced toner or lotion can then help to stabilize the skin's protective acid mantle.

Conclusion

A gentle cleanser is the foundation of healthy skincare. It removes dirt and sebum without drying out the skin – and perfectly prepares it for active skincare steps. Combined with the Porcelain Skin Serum and the Blue Crystal Drops, it creates a routine that ideally combines cleansing, regeneration, and protection.

Sources

1. Tan J et al. (2023): Comparative Effects of Surfactants on Barrier Integrity – J Cosmet Dermatol 22(5)
2. Kim S et al. (2024): Impact of pH-Balanced Cleansers on Skin Barrier and Irritation – Front Pharmacol 15
3. Rawlings AV et al. (2022): Botanical Surfactants and Microbiome Preservation – Int J Cosmet Sci 44(4)
4. Berdyshev E et al. (2024): Skin Lipid Barrier Structure and Cleansing Interaction – J Dermatol Res

Tags: mild cleanser, gentle cleansing, skin barrier, porcelain skin serum, blue crystal drops, pH balance