Haruharu Wonder Centella Sunflower Makeup-Melting Cleansing Balm Versus Anua 8 Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Gentle Gel Cleanser
Updated on March 31, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both cruelty-free and reef safe . They have a total of 5 ingredients in common
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for anti aging, dry skin, sensitive skin and scar healing
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Haruharu Wonder Centella Sunflower Makeup-Melting Cleansing Balm 18 ingredients
Anua 8 Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Gentle Gel Cleanser 30 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Haruharu Wonder Centella Sunflower Makeup-Melting Cleansing Balm 18 ingredients
Anua 8 Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Gentle Gel Cleanser 30 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Benefits
Ingredients Side-by-side
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Squalane is an emollient that helps the skin hold onto moisture. It's an oily liquid that occurs naturally in certain types of fish and plant oils.
Because squalane boosts hydration in the skin, it also comes with plenty of benefits: it is an antioxidant and can help fight free radicals and skin damage. Squalane is also found to have a detoxifying effect when applied.
Squalane comes from squalene, which occurs naturally within the sebum of our skin. It is one of the oils our skin produces to keep itself hydrated. Squalane is the hydrogenated version of squalene and has a longer shelf life.
Research shows that squalane is non-irritating (even at 100% concentration).
In general, it's a fantastic ingredient. It does a great job at hydrating the skin, and it's suitable for those with sensitive skin.
The source of squalane may impact malassezia / fungal acne. This is because olive oil derived squalane can contain impurities such as fatty acids and plant waxes. Sugarcane derived squalane is recommended for anyone with malassezia concerns.
Is squalane vegan?
This depends on the source. Squalane can be derived from both plants and animals. Most squalane used in skincare comes from plants.
Please note: the source of squalane is only known if disclosed by the brand. We recommend reaching out to the brand if you have any questions about their squalane.
Read more about squalene with an "e".
Is squalane an oil?
Squalane is often called an oil, but it’s technically not; it’s a hydrocarbon, meaning it’s only made of carbon and hydrogen, unlike true oils which are triglycerides made of fatty acids and glycerol.
The term “oil-free” isn’t regulated, so companies can define it however they want. Some exclude all oils, while others just avoid mineral oil or comedogenic oils.
While some people avoid oils thinking they cause breakouts, the right kind of oil (or oil-like ingredient like squalane) can actually help balance and hydrate your skin. It’s worth testing out simple oils or squalane to see what works best for your skin.
Learn more about Squalane1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic liquid and another multi-functional powerhouse.
It is a:
- Humectant, drawing moisture into the skin
- Emollient, helping to soften skin
- Solvent, dispersing and stabilizing formulas
- Preservative booster, enhancing the antimicrobial activity of other preservatives
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterButylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:
Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient that works well with other ingredients.
Though this ingredient works well with most skin types, some people with sensitive skin may experience a reaction such as allergic rashes, closed comedones, or itchiness.
Learn more about Butylene GlycolPropanediol is an all-star ingredient. It softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin.
It’s often used to:
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use. It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
Haruharu Wonder Centella Sunflower Makeup-Melting Cleansing Balm 18 ingredients
Anua 8 Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Gentle Gel Cleanser 30 ingredients

Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
Haruharu Wonder Centella Sunflower Makeup-Melting Cleansing Balm 18 ingredients
One of the best cleansing balms out there. I love the buttery texture and it melts my makeup up pretty well. Also, it has no fragrance so this is good for those with sensitive skin! So far, I haven’t experience any negative side effects from this balm and I prefer using it over an oil cleanser for my double cleansing routine as it is more moisturizing!
Anua 8 Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Gentle Gel Cleanser 30 ingredients
Love this gel cleanser. It is so hydrating and doesn’t strip the skin, but I feel squeaky clean. I use this twice a day & I have Rosacea & acne/fungal acne prone skin. I was concerned about the citric acid but I haven't had any negative reactions or noticed any acne as a result of using this product.
I also have a sensitivity to high strengths of butylene glycol but this one does not irritate Show more
Love this cleanser so much! It has fast become my HG! It feels so comfortable and soothing, no feel of stripping at all and it gives my skin the most beautiful glow and softness. It also has no niacinamide (lol!)... I had way too many products in my routine with that ingredient.