Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel Gentle-Foaming Face Wash, 1.7 fl oz – Soap-Free, Calming Botanicals

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel is a soap-free, gentle foaming face wash that removes dirt and excess oil while preserving the skin’s natural moisture balance.

This lightweight gel creates a refreshing lather suitable for daily use on all skin types. Formulated with calming botanicals like lavender and balm mint and exfoliating citric acid (an AHA), it cleanses without stripping and helps maintain a smooth, comfortable skin feel. The 1.7 fl oz size is travel-friendly and easy to incorporate into morning and evening routines.

How does this cleanser handle daily dirt and oil?

The Special Cleansing Gel forms a foamy lather that lifts makeup residue, sebum, and environmental grime without harsh surfactants. Its soap-free base minimizes dryness while still delivering a thorough cleanse.

• Creates a soft, foamy lather to remove impurities.
• Soap-free formula to protect natural moisture balance.
• Suitable for face and throat—easy rinse-off performance.

Will this irritate sensitive or reactive skin?

The formula includes soothing extracts such as lavender and balm mint to calm skin during cleansing. While it’s designed to be mild, always patch-test if you have known sensitivities to botanicals or AHAs.

• Calming botanical extracts help reduce surface irritation.
• No harsh cleansing agents that commonly strip skin.
• Lightweight texture minimizes friction during application.

What role does citric acid play in the cleanser?

Citric acid acts as a gentle exfoliant (an AHA) to promote clearer-looking pores and more even skin texture when used regularly. It supports mild surface renewal without the intensity of stronger chemical peels.

• Helps slough away dull surface cells for brighter skin tone.
• Assists with pore-clearing as part of a daily routine.
• Balanced concentration to suit everyday use rather than intensive treatment.

How do I use it in my skincare routine?

Apply a small amount to damp skin, massage into a lather across face and throat, then rinse with warm water. Follow with your preferred Dermalogica toner and moisturizer to complete cleansing and hydration steps.

• Use morning and night for consistent results.
• Works well before serums and moisturizers for better absorption.
• Travel-ready 1.7 fl oz fits carry-on and gym bags.

Who is this for: Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel is intended for anyone seeking a reliable daily cleanser that balances gentle cleansing with effective impurity removal. It suits people who prefer soap-free formulas, those wanting a mild AHA boost in their wash step, and travelers who need a compact, versatile face wash. If you have very reactive or ingredient-sensitive skin, consider patch testing first or consulting a skincare professional.

Ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) Oil, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Propanediol, Citric Acid, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Disodium EDTA, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate.