The Bioeffect Facial Cleanser is a product designed to gently remove makeup, sunscreen, pollutants, and other impurities from the skin. This cleanser uses a gel-to-milk formula that effectively dissolves impurities while boosting the skin's barrier function. Founded by three geneticists and formulated on green biotechnical principles, Bioeffect is an Icelandic skincare line known for its anti-aging products. This review delves into the key ingredients of the Bioeffect Facial Cleanser, examining their individual benefits and how they contribute to the overall effectiveness of the product.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
Water
Water is the most abundant ingredient in the Bioeffect Facial Cleanser, as it is in most cosmetic products. Typically listed at the top of the ingredient list, water acts as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the formula.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a naturally occurring compound in the skin, and its inclusion in the Bioeffect Facial Cleanser offers significant moisturizing and protective benefits. This organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic ingredient functions as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin to keep it hydrated. A 2016 study indicated that glycerin is more effective than AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and hyaluronic acid as a humectant.
The low molecular weight of glycerin allows it to penetrate deeper layers of the skin, enhancing hydration and improving the skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier is crucial for protecting against irritants and bacteria. Additionally, glycerin possesses antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making it useful in treating wounds and burns. In cosmetics, glycerin is often derived from plants like soybean or palm, and it acts as an emollient, solvent, and texture enhancer, softening the skin and preventing moisture loss. It also helps thicken the product's formula, making it easier to spread by dissolving clumping compounds.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a clear liquid formed by combining glycerin with coconut oil. Despite the misconception that it may clog pores due to its coconut oil derivative, no research supports this claim. Instead, it functions as an emollient, contributing to the skin's moisture barrier.
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Squalane
Squalane is another emollient in the Bioeffect Facial Cleanser, valued for its ability to help the skin retain moisture. This oily liquid occurs naturally in fish and plant oils. Squalane is derived from squalene, a natural component of the skin's sebum, which keeps the skin hydrated. Squalane is the hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life and is considered non-irritating, even at high concentrations.
Squalane provides antioxidant benefits, fighting free radicals and skin damage while boosting hydration. It's generally considered a fantastic ingredient, particularly for those with sensitive skin. However, the source of squalane is essential, especially for individuals with malassezia or fungal acne. Squalane derived from olive oil may contain impurities like fatty acids and plant waxes, whereas sugarcane-derived squalane is recommended for those with malassezia concerns. The source of squalane is typically disclosed by the brand, but it's advisable to confirm with the manufacturer if there are specific concerns.
It is important to note that while squalane is often referred to as an oil, it is technically a hydrocarbon made of carbon and hydrogen, unlike true oils, which are triglycerides made of fatty acids and glycerol. The inclusion of squalane helps balance and hydrate the skin, making it a valuable ingredient in the cleanser.
Sucrose Stearate
Sucrose Stearate is derived from stearic acid and sucrose (sugar). It functions as an emulsifier, preventing the separation of oil and water in the product. Additionally, it acts as a surfactant, providing cleansing properties.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
Tocopherol, also known as Vitamin E, is a common antioxidant used to protect the skin from free radicals and strengthen the skin barrier. As a fat-soluble vitamin, it is readily absorbed by the skin, helping to maintain healthy skin lipids, ceramides, and fatty acids. Vitamin E offers extra protection for the skin’s lipid barrier, keeping the skin healthy and nourished.
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Vitamin E also provides some UV protection, helping to reduce damage caused by UVB rays, although it should not replace sunscreen. It is often paired with Vitamin C, as it helps stabilize Vitamin C and enhances the effectiveness of both ingredients. Together, they can decrease sunburned cells and hyperpigmentation after UV exposure.
Citric Acid
Citric Acid is an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) derived from citrus fruits. It works by removing the top layer of skin cells, revealing the newer, fresher layer underneath.
Additional Benefits and Features
The Bioeffect Facial Cleanser stands out due to its gel-to-milk formula, which ensures gentle yet effective cleansing. The cleanser is designed to be non-stripping, making it suitable for all skin types. In addition to removing makeup, sunscreen, and pollutants, it is enriched with antioxidant-rich barley seed extract, which soothes the complexion and seals in moisture.
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