EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser - 5 oz, Gentle Fragrance-Free Barrier-Repair Face Wash

EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser is a gentle, fragrance-free foaming face wash formulated to remove sunscreen and light makeup while helping strengthen and restore the skin’s moisture barrier.

This dermatologist-tested foaming cleanser uses a patented AAComplex amino acid blend to support barrier repair and reduce trans-epidermal water loss after regular use. Designed for sensitive and post-procedure skin, the formula is free of fragrance, parabens, dyes, and oils, making it suitable for daily morning and evening cleansing. It lifts away impurities, light makeup, and sunscreen without stripping moisture, and is clinically evaluated to improve skin hydration and resilience over a two-week period.

How does this cleanser remove sunscreen and makeup without irritating sensitive skin?

The EltaMD Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser uses gentle surfactants and an amino-acid–rich complex that foams lightly to lift away oil-based sunscreens, light makeup, and daily grime without harsh friction. Because it’s oil-free and noncomedogenic, it cleans effectively while minimizing pore blockage and irritation.

• Foaming action removes sunscreen and environmental pollutants.
• Fragrance- and dye-free to reduce irritation risk.
• Noncomedogenic formula avoids clogging pores.
• Suitable for post-procedure and reactive skin types.

What evidence supports the barrier-strengthening claims?

Clinical testing showed the AAComplex formula can strengthen the skin barrier and reduce water loss when used twice daily. In a dermatologist-evaluated study, participants experienced measurable improvements in skin moisture and reduced signs of barrier disruption within days to weeks.

• Clinically tested on a diverse group of subjects across 14 days.
• Shown to reduce trans-epidermal water loss after 7 days.
• Improved skin moisture noted after 14 days of twice-daily use.
• Formulation developed from a decade of research into amino-acid support.

How should I use this cleanser in my daily routine for best results?

Use the cleanser twice daily—morning and night—for consistent barrier support and gentle makeup removal. Pump a moderate amount into damp hands, massage into face and neck, allow the foam to work for about 30 seconds, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

• Apply to damp skin and massage gently for 30 seconds before rinsing.
• Follow with a treatment serum and hydrating moisturizer to lock in benefits.
• Safe for use after many skin procedures; consult your clinician for immediate post-procedure timing.
• Compatible with sunscreen and other skincare products in a daily regimen.

Is this cleanser appropriate for acne-prone or reactive skin?

The formulation is hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic, and oil-free, making it a cautious choice for acne-prone and reactive skin types. While it effectively removes surface oils and impurities, anyone with active severe acne or specific sensitivities should patch-test or consult a dermatologist.

• Noncomedogenic to help prevent pore congestion.
• Fragrance- and paraben-free to reduce irritation triggers.
• Lightly exfoliates without harsh abrasives or drying agents.
• Dermatologist-approved for sensitive and normal skin types.

Who is this for: EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser is best for people with sensitive, reactive, or post-procedure skin seeking a dependable daily face wash that removes sunscreen and light makeup while supporting barrier repair. It’s also well suited to those who prefer fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare and anyone looking to maintain skin hydration while cleansing. If you need a heavy-duty makeup remover or an acne prescription treatment, pair this cleanser with targeted products recommended by your clinician.

Ingredients

AAComplex Technology (Triple-Amino Acid Complex: Taurine, Arginine, Glycine): Taurine was selected as the core of the golden ratio because it is known for its powerful/effective repair function, Arginine is an amino acid, antioxidant, and natural moisturizing factor that helps keep the skin hydrated and healthy looking, and Glycine is a known structural component of collagen. Amino Acid Surfactants, Lactylate, APG: High performing cleansing system Bisabolol & Ginger Root Extract: Help calm the skin and visibly reduce redness