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

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel is a soap-free, gentle foaming face wash that cleanses skin thoroughly while preserving natural moisture.

This lightweight gel produces a refreshing lather to remove dirt, oil, and daily impurities without leaving skin tight or dry. Formulated with calming botanicals like lavender and balm mint plus a mild AHA (citric acid), it helps smooth texture and support a balanced, comfortable feel. The 1.7 fl oz size is travel-friendly and ideal for testing how the formula suits your routine.

How will this cleanser fit into my morning routine?

Use the gel as the first step to clear away overnight oils and residue so subsequent serums and moisturizers absorb better. Its gentle foam wakes skin without stripping, making it suitable before makeup application.

• Lather a small amount between palms, apply to damp face and throat.
• Rinse with warm water and pat dry before treatments.
• Compatible with toners and lightweight daytime moisturizers.

Can sensitive or dry skin types use this product?

The formula is soap-free and mild, designed to avoid excess dryness while calming the skin with botanical extracts. Individuals with reactive skin should patch test, but many find the gel comfortable for daily use.

• Soap-free base minimizes irritation risk.
• Lavender and balm mint provide soothing sensations.
• Cleanses without aggressive surfactants that strip oils.

What does the citric acid do, and is it harsh?

Citric acid is a gentle alpha-hydroxy acid that helps slough away dead skin cells and clear pores, contributing to a brighter, smoother appearance. In this rinse-off formulation the concentration is low, so it exfoliates mildly without prolonged acid exposure.

• Light exfoliation to improve texture and tone.
• Helps prevent pore build-up when used regularly.
• Designed for rinse-off use to limit irritation risk.

How much should I use and how often?

A pea-to-nickel-sized amount is enough for most users; adjust if you have very oily skin. Daily morning and/or evening cleansing is appropriate, depending on your skin’s needs and other treatments in your routine.

• Small amount lathers well—economical usage.
• Safe for daily use unless directed otherwise by a professional.
• Follow with toner and moisturizer for best results.

Who is this for: Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel is suited for anyone seeking a dependable, non-drying daily cleanser — including normal, combination, mildly oily, and sensitive skin types who prefer a soap-free, botanical-infused option. It works well for travelers and those testing Dermalogica products for the first time thanks to its compact 1.7 fl oz size. If you use active treatments or have highly reactive skin, consider patch testing or consulting a skincare professional to tailor frequency and pairing.

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.