Is Gentle Cleansing Foam suitable for sensitive or dry skin?

Immediate Answer: Yes. Despite being a foaming cleanser, it's formulated with gentle surfactants (disodium laureth sulfosuccinate and cocamidopropyl betaine) rather than harsh sulphates like sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). It also contains panthenol and bisabolol—both known for calming and soothing sensitive skin.

The Science: Many people assume "foaming" means "stripping." That's true for older formulations that use SLS or sodium laureth sulphate (SLES) as primary surfactants—these are effective cleansers but can disrupt the skin barrier and strip natural oils.

Gentle Cleansing Foam uses a different generation of surfactants:

• Disodium laureth sulfosuccinate: A mild anionic surfactant that cleanses effectively at a lower irritation potential than SLS
• Cocamidopropyl betaine: An amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil, known for its mildness and compatibility with sensitive skin
• Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5): Supports the skin barrier and retains moisture during cleansing
• Bisabolol: A chamomile-derived ingredient that reduces redness and calms irritation
• Glycerin: Draws moisture into the skin, preventing the tight feeling that harsh cleansers cause

The foam texture is important: pre-foamed formulas are gentler than products you need to lather vigorously, because less physical friction is required.

For Very Dry or Compromised Skin: If your skin barrier is currently compromised (flaking, stinging, persistent dryness), use lukewarm water and a single pump of foam. Avoid too-hot water—heat strips oils faster than any surfactant.

Pro Tip: If a cleanser leaves your skin feeling "squeaky clean," it's too harsh. Your skin should feel clean but comfortable—not tight, not dry, not stripped. That's the standard Gentle Cleansing Foam is designed to meet.