As the first step in a skincare routine, a facial cleanser is a crucial method for preparing the skin for subsequent steps. However, it may appear to be a straightforward task to choose the best facial cleanser, but it is far from being trouble-free. I’m pretty sure that every single one of you can relate to the frustration of searching for the ideal product. Personally, I’ve endured countless trials and tribulations in my quest to find the perfect facial cleanser that suits my needs. Starting with the common misconception that a product promising an overly clean feeling is the way to go, to using cleansers that leave my skin excessively dry, the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash has been a breath of fresh air to my beauty routine. Regarded as the top-selling, universally acclaimed facial cleanser that beauty enthusiasts everywhere swear by, I’m one of those individuals who simply can’t part with this gem. Keep reading to discover my candid review of the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash.

Facts in a Flash
Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash
Skin Type(s): Combination, dry, normal, oily and sensitive
Main Function: A best-seller cleanser that is expertly formulated to deeply cleanse the skin from impurities, excess sebum, and stubborn makeup while retaining moisture and pH levels.
Star Ingredients: Soy protein, borage seed oil, aloe vera gel and cucumber extract
Texture: Gel-like texture

Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash Review 

The Ingredients 

As the name suggests, the star ingredient in the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash is soy protein. This essential component is abundant in amino acid hydroxyproline, which works marvellously to enhance skin elasticity and refine the complexion. Notably, it is sourced from upcycled materials within the food industry.

Contained within this potent tube is a blend of botanical extracts, with borage seed oil taking the spotlight for its profound ability to deeply nourish the skin, leaving it with a soft and healthy appearance. This formulation works in perfect harmony with soothing powerhouses such as aloe vera gel and cucumber extract. In addition to their calming properties, these ingredients provide a refreshing, cooling sensation that can alleviate irritation and redness.

Other noteworthy ingredients worth mentioning encompass Glycerin, Rosa Damascena Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, and Mallow Flower Extract. It’s important to note that the product previously contained PEGs, a type of preservative ingredient, which has been removed in its reformulation, rendering it an ideal choice for all skin types

The Texture

Image credit: Fresh

With its jelly-like texture, the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash boasts an impressively lightweight consistency. It’s important not to underestimate its clear gel composition, as it transforms into a translucent white lather that effectively dissolves and removes impurities, excess oil, and even stubborn makeup, including mascara.

During a period when I had misconceptions about skincare, I was firmly rooted in the belief that a facial cleanser needed to make my skin overly clean, essentially stripping it of its natural oils, to be considered effective. However, the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash has significantly shifted my perspective on facial cleansers, especially those with a gel-based formulation.

How to Use it

Using it is as straightforward as other facial cleansers. Just wet your skin and dispense an appropriate amount onto your palm. Proceed to massage it gently over your face in a circular motion before rinsing it off. If you’re wearing eye makeup, including mascara, I recommend paying special attention to that area to ensure complete removal.

Overall Review

TBH, I can’t pinpoint the exact moment I began using the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash, but it’s been over five years now, and it has become a staple in my skincare routine. Initially, what drew me to this product was its formula, which ticked all the boxes for what I look for in a facial cleanser. This non-stripping cleanser lives up to its promises, offering a triple threat of benefits by cleansing, softening, and hydrating the skin.

Beyond its impressive cleansing power, it’s expertly formulated to boost the skin’s hydration level by 10% while maintaining the skin’s pH balance. As someone with oily and acne-prone skin, the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash has been a game-changer in addressing my skin issues.

When I first tried it, I was pleasantly surprised by its gel texture, which effectively clears pores of grime and excess sebum. I was amazed to find that it doesn’t strip away my skin’s natural oils and leave it dry, as often happens with other facial cleansers. Instead, it leaves my skin feeling hydrated even after rinsing.

While I don’t wear makeup daily to allow my skin to breathe, I always make sure to double cleanse my skin at night. Depending on my mood, I sometimes use an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm, with cold-pressed almond oil being my go-to. I follow this up with the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash, creating a perfect combination for my skin. However, when I do wear makeup, this best-seller works wonders in effortlessly melting away stubborn makeup, including mascara. I also appreciate that it’s certified ophthalmologist-tested, making it safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

While some may find the scent slightly overpowering, I personally love its fragrance, which reminds me of the rejuvenating scent of cucumber. Over the years of using the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash, I’ve noticed visible improvements in my skin. Aside from achieving a healthy-looking complexion, it also helps soothe inflammation caused by occasional acne breakouts. The best part? It thoroughly cleanses my skin without causing any dryness or the slightest irritation.

Thanks to its cult-like popularity, it serves as a testament to its effectiveness and top-notch formulation. For those new to it, the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash features a pH-balanced formula that closely matches that of the skin. What’s more, it has been tested on nearly 200 adults of various genders, ages, skin tones, and types, certifying its safety for all skin types.

However, I must mention that the Fresh Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash can be somewhat pricey, retailing at $24 for 50 ml. It might just be me, but my inner cheapskate tells me that a little goes a long way, and so far, it has proven to be cost-effective. If you’re seeking an alternative, there are other gel-based cleansers on the market that can serve as a budget-friendly option, including Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and Simple Kind to Skin Refreshing Facial Gel Wash.

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