Neutrogena’s facewash is a staple in my cousin’s bathroom. I am never sure if she uses it to clean her feet or face, but I have had ample opportunity to use this face wash in the past. The formulation has not changed much and its still a transparent light orange gel.
In deciding whether or not to use a facewash, I apply this quite rudimentary and basic test of my own design:
1) What are the surfactants present and are they mild?
Consistent with bigger brands, this has more surfactants, namely
| Sodium Laureth Sulfate (2nd) | Lauryl Glucoside (3rd) | Cocamidopropyl betaine (4th) | Sodium cocoamphoacetate (7th) |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate provides good and copious foam; Cocamidopropyl Betaine makes foam richer and creamier and is said to reduce the irritation potential of Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Lauryl Glucoside is a mild surfactant.
The combination of these surfactants should produce a medium strong cleansing agent. If you have sensitive skin or prefer mild cleansers, this is not for you.
2) Does the product have a good preservative system?
The main preservative is methylparaben.
I don’t use products with parabens. Parabens are cheap and effective preservatives. They are also estrogen mimickers and if you are thinking PCOS, then you are not the only one. (See also Chemicals to Avoid: parabens)
If you wish to use this product, because you don’t care about parabens, then please continue reading.
3) Is there any glycerine?
Yes, this product has glycerine. Glycerine keeps the skin hydrated by reducing the amount of trans-epidermal water loss. See also The Critical Importance of Glycerin in the Skin
4) Does the product irritate or dry the skin?
Thankfully, this transparent gel face wash has no distinguishable fragrance. It produces a lot of foam and is drying. Its not the most drying facewash (which would be unhappily married and richfeel) and its certainly not the most hydrating one either.
Will I use this product again?
Even though this facewash is not as frying as fabindia, richfeel or unhappily married, I really dislike it. Using this even a few times at my cousin’s house has been enough to want me to slather my face in vaseline, its so drying.
Its a pass for me.
Available for sale for INR 400 for 200ml
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