Product Overview and Benefits
The Avène Cleanance HYDRA Soothing Cleansing Cream is a new and improved formula that is now 4x more hydrating. This cream wash is designed to gently remove impurities and debris from the skin while simultaneously calming and soothing it.
This product is specifically formulated as an adjunctive treatment to minimize dryness and scaling that can occur with intense acne treatments. These treatments can include oral isotretinoin and other irritating acne therapies. The light cream formula effectively nourishes and moisturizes the skin, aiding in the restoration of the hydrolipidic barrier, which is often compromised by acne treatments.
The inclusion of Avène Thermal Spring Water in the formula further enhances its soothing and softening properties.
How to Use
To use the Avène Cleanance HYDRA Soothing Cleansing Cream, apply it to a moistened face. Lather the cream thoroughly and then rinse. After rinsing, gently pat your skin dry. For optimal results and to further soothe the skin, follow up with a mist of Avène Thermal Spring Water and then pat dry again.
Key Ingredients and Their Functions
Core Ingredients
- Avène Thermal Spring Water (AVENE AQUA): Known for its soothing and anti-irritating properties.
- Water (AQUA): The primary base of the formulation, acting as a solvent and moisturizer.
- Glycerin: A highly effective humectant that attracts and retains moisture, improving skin hydration and barrier function. It also possesses antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
- Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (HELIANTHUS ANNUS SEED OIL): Rich in linoleic and oleic acids, it acts as an effective moisturizer and contains Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that nourishes the skin's lipid barrier and fights free radicals.
- Zea Mays (Corn) Starch (ZEA MAYS STARCH): Often used for its absorbent properties, helping to mattify the skin.
Cleansing and Emulsifying Agents
- Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate: A mild surfactant derived from amino acids, used for cleansing without stripping the skin.
- Decyl Glucoside: A gentle, non-ionic surfactant derived from plant-based sources, known for its excellent cleansing properties and mildness.
- Coco-Betaine: A mild amphoteric surfactant that helps to create foam and cleanse the skin.
- Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate: Another mild amino acid-based surfactant.
- Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate: A mild emulsifier and surfactant.
- Sucrose Stearate: Acts as an emulsifier, surfactant, and emollient, helping to blend oil and water, cleanse, and soften the skin.
- Sucrose Distearate: Similar to Sucrose Stearate, it aids in emulsification and texture enhancement.
Moisturizing and Emollient Ingredients
- Cetearyl Alcohol: A fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient, thickener, and emulsifier, providing a smooth feel to the skin.
- Silybum Marianum Seed Oil: A nourishing oil with potential antioxidant benefits.
- Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: Derived from glycerin and coconut oil, it's a stable emollient that helps to replenish the skin's surface and improve texture.
Texture Enhancers and Stabilizers
- Xanthan Gum: A polysaccharide used as a thickener and stabilizer to improve product texture and prevent separation.
- Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer: A synthetic polymer used to thicken products and improve their texture, preventing ingredient separation.
Soothing and Antioxidant Ingredients
- Bisabolol: Renowned for its skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, it also acts as an antioxidant and can help reduce hyperpigmentation.
Preservatives and Stabilizers
- Sodium Benzoate: A common preservative used to prevent microbial growth.
- BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene): A synthetic antioxidant and preservative that stabilizes products against oxidation.
- Phenoxyethanol: A broad-spectrum preservative effective against bacteria, yeast, and mold.
- Caprylyl Glycol: Acts as a humectant, emollient, and preservative booster, helping to retain moisture and extend product shelf life.
Other Ingredients
- Sodium Dextran Sulfate: May help in soothing the skin.
- Citric Acid: Used for pH adjustment.
- Myreth-3 Myristate: Can affect skin texture and may not be suitable for oily or acne-prone skin.
- PEG-12: A humectant and solvent, generally well-tolerated but may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Dimethicone: A silicone that provides a smooth feel and can create a protective barrier on the skin; unlikely to cause irritation unless one has a silicone allergy.
- Triethanolamine (TEA): Used as an emulsifier and pH adjuster.
- Zinc Gluconate: Possesses antibacterial and wound-healing properties, particularly effective against inflammatory acne.
- Parfum (Fragrance): Added to provide a scent; can be a blend of many chemicals and may cause sensitivities in some individuals.
User Experiences and Reviews
Many users have reported positive experiences with the Avène Cleanance HYDRA Soothing Cleansing Cream, particularly those with oily, dehydrated, blemish-prone, or irritated skin. It is frequently praised for its ability to hydrate without feeling heavy or clogging pores, making it an excellent companion for acne medications like retinol and acids.
One user mentioned, "I use acne medication and this moisturizer really helps with the dryness caused by the medication. It hydrates without feeling heavy like a lot of moisturizers. I definitely recommend trying it." Another user with rosacea found it effective for redness and irritation, often mixing it with other Avène creams for enhanced barrier support.
Long-term users, some using the product for over ten years, attest to its consistent performance in providing comfort to dry, irritated skin. It's also been a successful repurchase for individuals whose teenage sons use it to combat the drying effects of acne treatments.
However, some users have noted drawbacks. A significant concern for some is the presence of a strong, floral scent ("Parfum") in the formulation, which can be off-putting, especially for those with sensitive or compromised skin undergoing treatment. One reviewer stated, "I did see that this had fragrance before I ordered it; however, I assumed it'd be subtle in a product that's specifically for compromised, irritated skin. Unfortunately, this has a strong, floral scent. This is the last thing I'd want to put on tretinoin skin."
There have also been instances where the cream was not sufficiently moisturizing for very dry or irritated skin, particularly when used in conjunction with potent acne treatments. One user with dry, irritated, and blemish-prone skin found that "in the long run however, this product only made my skin drier. It was simply not enough moisture for my dry and irritated skin." Some users also noted that it can leave the face looking shiny, even after being rubbed in.
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Understanding Key Ingredients in Detail
Water (Aqua)
Water is the most common ingredient in cosmetic formulations, serving as the base solvent. It is essential for life and plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration.
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil
Safflower seed oil, derived from one of humanity's oldest crops, is rich in linoleic acid and oleic acid, making it an effective moisturizer. It also contains Vitamin E, which nourishes the skin's lipid barrier and acts as an antioxidant, protecting against free-radical damage. Due to its high fatty acid content, it may not be suitable for malassezia folliculitis.
Sucrose Stearate
This ingredient, derived from stearic acid and sugar, functions as an emulsifier, preventing oil and water from separating. It also acts as a surfactant for cleansing and as a lightweight emollient that softens the skin and enhances texture. It helps prevent moisture loss by strengthening the skin barrier.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Created by combining glycerin with coconut oil, this clear liquid is a stable emollient with a long shelf life. While derived from coconut oil, research does not support the assumption that it clogs pores. It provides an elegant skin feel and is resistant to oxidation.
Myreth-3 Myristate
This ingredient is not considered fungal acne safe and may be detrimental to oily and acne-prone skin types.
PEG-12
A polyethylene glycol with humectant and solvent properties, it is water-soluble. While generally well-tolerated, some individuals with sensitive skin might experience adverse reactions like allergic rashes or itchiness.
Glycerin
Naturally present in the skin, glycerin is a powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, improving hydration and strengthening the skin barrier. Its low molecular weight allows it to penetrate deeper layers. Glycerin also exhibits antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making it useful in wound treatments. It is typically derived from plant sources like soybean or palm.
Dimethicone
A synthetic silicone, dimethicone comes in various viscosities and is unlikely to cause irritation as it is not absorbed into the skin. However, individuals with silicone allergies should exercise caution. It can sometimes contribute to pilling when layered with other products and may feel greasy if mixed with heavy oils.
Cetyl Alcohol
A fatty alcohol, distinct from drying alcohols like denatured or ethyl alcohol, it functions as an emollient, thickener, and emulsifier, contributing to a smooth skin feel.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
This synthetic polymer is used to thicken cosmetic products and improve their texture, while also preventing the separation of oil and water ingredients.
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
A synthetic antioxidant and preservative, BHT stabilizes products against oxidation and helps protect cells from free-radical damage. While approved by the FDA and EU, it has faced restrictions in the UK.
Bisabolol
Known for its potent skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, bisabolol calms irritation by blocking inflammatory signals. It also acts as an antioxidant and can help reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone. Studies suggest it possesses antimicrobial and antifungal properties, contributing to product preservation and enhancing the absorption of other ingredients.
Caprylyl Glycol
This ingredient functions as both a humectant and emollient, attracting and retaining moisture to soften the skin and support a healthy skin barrier. Despite being an alcohol derived from fatty acids, it does not dry out the skin and also acts as a preservative.
Disodium EDTA
A chelating agent that neutralizes metal ions, Disodium EDTA enhances product stability by aiding other preservatives.
Parfum (Fragrance)
"Parfum" or "fragrance" is a broad term encompassing one or more ingredients used to impart scent. The composition can vary widely, and some components may cause allergic reactions or sensitivities. The term itself is not strictly regulated in many countries.
Phenoxyethanol
A preservative with germicidal, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties, it effectively prevents microbial growth and is often paired with Caprylyl Glycol to extend product shelf life. It has a scent reminiscent of roses.
Sucrose Distearate
An ester formed from sucrose (sugar) and stearic acid, contributing to the emulsifying properties of the formulation.
Triethanolamine (TEA)
An emulsifier and pH adjuster created from ethylene oxide and ammonia. It helps prevent ingredient separation and adds volume to products. Adjusting pH is crucial for ingredient efficacy and preventing skin irritation.
Xanthan Gum
A polysaccharide that acts as a stabilizer and thickener, giving products a desirable texture and preventing them from being too runny.
Zinc Gluconate
This zinc salt of gluconic acid has antibacterial and wound-healing properties, making it particularly beneficial for fighting inflammatory acne.