Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Ingredients Explained
Overview
What it is
Face cleanser with 29 ingredients that contains ceramides, exfoliants, hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E
Cool Features
It is reef safe
Suited For
It has ingredients that are good for anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin and sensitive skin
Free From
It doesn't contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, parabens, silicones or sulfates
Fun facts
Banila Co is from South Korea. This product is used in 6 routines created by our community.
We independently verify ingredients and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Does this product need an update? Let us know.
Face cleanser with 29 ingredients that contains ceramides, exfoliants, hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E
Quick info
You should know
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Benefits
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Ingredients 29
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate isn't fungal acne safe.
Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate comes from Isostearic Acid and glycerin.
Synthetic Wax is created from fossil fuels such as natural gas. It is used to enhance texture, adjust pH, and as an occlusive.
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
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.
Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:
Parfum is a catch-all term for an ingredient or more that is used to give a scent to products.
Tocopheryl Acetate is AKA Vitamin E. It is an antioxidant and protects your skin from free radicals. Free radicals damage the skin by breaking down collagen.
This ingredient is the fixed oil extracted from seeds of the desert shrub Jojoba. It is more commonly known as jojoba oil. The seed oil is liquid wax ester from the plant. It is non-comedogenic.
Ethylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.
Oenothera Biennis Oil is the fixed oil derived from the seeds of the Evening Primrose.
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil is derived from the kernels of the argania spinosa tree. You may know it as argan oil.
Glycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil is the oil expressed from the seeds of Moringa oleifera plant. It is more commonly known as Moringa seed oil.
1,2-Hexanediol is a multi-tasker ingredient. It acts as a preservative to increase shelf-life and can aid other preservatives in preventing microbe growth. 1,2-Hexanediol also helps the skin retain moisture as a humectant.
Phytosphingosine is a phospholipid naturally found in our skin. It helps moisturize, soothe, and protect skin.
Hydrogenated Lecithin is created from the hydrogenation of lecithin. Hydrogenation is a chemical reaction between molecule hydrogen and another element.
Zea Mays Oil is refined oil. It is created from the process of wet milling corn, or zea mays. Zea Mays Oil is fragrance ingredient, hair conditioning agent, occlusive skin conditioning agent, surfactant, and emulsifying agent.
Panthenol is a common ingredient that helps hydrate and soothe the skin. It can be found naturally in our skin and hair.
Beta-Carotene is a carotenoid. It is an antioxidant that converts to Vitamin A. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells, such as pollution.
Sodium Hyaluronate is hyaluronic acid's salt form. It is commonly derived from the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.
Tocopherol (also known as Vitamin E) is a common antioxidant used to help protect the skin from free-radicals and strengthen the skin barrier. It's also fat soluble - this means our skin is great at absorbing it.
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Peg-10 Isostearate, Synthetic Wax, Phenoxyethanol, Water, Butylene Glycol, Parfum, Tocopheryl Acetate, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Oenothera Biennis Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Glycerin, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ceramide NP, Phytosphingosine, Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract, Aspalathus Linearis Extract, Angelica Archangelica Root Extract, Malpighia Glabra Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Zea Mays Oil, Panthenol, Beta-Carotene, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol
Ingredient Ratings
Based on the number of likes and dislikes each ingredient has received.
Ingredients Explained
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate comes from cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid.
It is an emollient that adds a velvety feel to products when applied. Emollients help trap moisture into your skin, keeping your skin soft and hydrated.
Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate isn't fungal acne safe.
Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate comes from Isostearic Acid and glycerin.
It is an emollient, emulsifier, and gentle cleanser. As an emollient, it helps trap moisture to keep skin soft and hydrated. Emulsifiers help prevent ingredients from separating.
This ingredient is common in oil-based products. This is because it helps oil-ingredients be easily washed away without leaving a residue.
Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate may not be fungal-acne safe.
Learn more about Peg-20 Glyceryl TriisostearatePeg-10 Isostearate isn't fungal acne safe.
Synthetic Wax is created from fossil fuels such as natural gas. It is used to enhance texture, adjust pH, and as an occlusive.
It may also be used as an abrasive ingredient to exfoliate the skin.
Synthetic Wax may not be fungal acne safe.
Learn more about Synthetic WaxPhenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
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:
- It is a solvent, meaning that it helps to dissolve other ingredients. This also enhances the absorption of the product into one's skin.
- It is a humectant, which means that it helps attract moisture into the skin.
- It helps improve product application.
Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient. It is unlikely to irritate skin, and works well with pretty much all other ingredients.
Parfum is a catch-all term for an ingredient or more that is used to give a scent to products.
Also called "fragrance", this ingredient can be a blend of hundreds of chemicals or plant oils. This means every product with "fragrance" or "parfum" in the ingredients list is a different mixture.
In the US, the alternative name for parfum is 'fragrance'.
The term 'fragrance' is not regulated in many countries. In many cases, it is up to the brand to define this term.
For instance, many brands choose to label themselves as "fragrance-free" because they are not using synthetic fragrances. However, their products may still contain ingredients such as essential oils that are considered a fragrance by INCI standards.
One example is Calendula flower extract. Calendula is an essential oil that still imparts a scent or 'fragrance'.
Depending on the blend, the ingredients in the mixture can cause allergies and sensitivities on the skin. Some ingredients that are known EU allergens include linalool and citronellol.
Parfum can also be used to mask or cover an unpleasant scent.
The bottom line is: not all fragrances/parfum/ingredients are created equally. If you are worried about fragrances, we recommend taking a closer look at an ingredient. And of course, we always recommend speaking with a professional.
Learn more about ParfumTocopheryl Acetate is AKA Vitamin E. It is an antioxidant and protects your skin from free radicals. Free radicals damage the skin by breaking down collagen.
One study found using Tocopheryl Acetate with Vitamin C decreased the number of sunburned cells.
Tocopheryl Acetate is commonly found in both skincare and dietary supplements.
Learn more about Tocopheryl AcetateThis ingredient is the fixed oil extracted from seeds of the desert shrub Jojoba. It is more commonly known as jojoba oil. The seed oil is liquid wax ester from the plant. It is non-comedogenic.
Jojoba oil does not contain fragrance and has many fatty-acids, making it a great soothing ingredient. Jojoba contains Vitamin E, a great moisturizing ingredient. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant. Antioxidants help protect your skin against free-radical damage. This may help in anti-aging.
Jojoba seed oil is a humectant, meaning it helps draw moisture from the air. This helps keep your skin hydrated.
While jojoba has antibacterial properties, it is only able to kill some bacteria. It has also been shown to help in wound healing. Indigenous cultures have used jojoba as a moisturizer and to help treat burns.
It is found to be similar to natural human skin sebum, so it has a great effect on dry skin. Jojoba oil may even help with regulating sebum production.
Although jojoba oil is non-comedogenic, we recommend speaking with a professional about using this ingredient if you have any concerns.
Jojoba oil may not be fungal acne safe. We recommend speaking with a professional if you have any concerns.
Jojoba is native to the southwestern US.
Learn more about Simmondsia Chinensis Seed OilEthylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.
You might see Ethylhexylglycerin often paired with other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. Ethylhexylglycerin has been found to increase the effectiveness of these other preservatives.
Oenothera Biennis Oil is the fixed oil derived from the seeds of the Evening Primrose.
Evening primrose oil is rich in fatty acids. These fatty acids include linoleic (60-85%), oleic (5-12%), palmitic (4-10%), and stearic (2-4%).
The fatty acid composition makes it a great ingredient for soothing and moisturizing skin. However, it may not be Malassezia folliculitis, or fungal acne safe.
Further research is needed on the role of evening primrose in treating eczema.
Evening primrose is native to North America.
Learn more about Oenothera Biennis OilArgania Spinosa Kernel Oil is derived from the kernels of the argania spinosa tree. You may know it as argan oil.
Argan Oil is an antioxidant, hydrating, and soothing ingredient.
Studies have shown argan oil can help fight again radical damage from the sun. This makes it effective at preventing hyperpigmentation.
Large amounts of vitamin E found in argan oil helps the skin retain water. Argan oil also contains fatty acids such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid. It is also a good source of lipids.
Another benefit of argan oil is skin-soothing. It can help reduce inflammation-related skin symptoms.
Argan Oil is effective at regulating sebum production in pores. This can make it effective at treating hormonal acne.
Traditionally, argan oil was used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, argan oil contains fatty acids that may make it not fungal-acne safe.
Argan Trees are native to Morocco.
Learn more about Argania Spinosa Kernel OilGlycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.
A study from 2016 found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
As a humectant, it helps the skin stay hydrated by pulling moisture to your skin. The low molecular weight of glycerin allows it to pull moisture into the deeper layers of your skin.
Hydrated skin improves your skin barrier; Your skin barrier helps protect against irritants and bacteria.
Glycerin has also been found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Due to these properties, glycerin is often used in wound and burn treatments.
In cosmetics, glycerin is usually derived from plants such as soybean or palm. However, it can also be sourced from animals, such as tallow or animal fat.
This ingredient is organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.
Glycerin is the name for this ingredient in American English. British English uses Glycerol/Glycerine.
Learn more about GlycerinMoringa Oleifera Seed Oil is the oil expressed from the seeds of Moringa oleifera plant. It is more commonly known as Moringa seed oil.
Moringa seeds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin hydrating properties. These seeds are rich in oils, proteins, monounsaturated fats, and tocopherols.
As an emollient, moringa seed oil helps trap moisture in the skin by creating a film on top. This helps keep your skin hydrated and soft.
Many compounds in moringa seed oil are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. These compounds include Vitamin E. , catechins, ferulic acid, and more.
Another compound found in Moringa seed oil is oleic acid.
Moringa trees are native to the Himalayan mountains.
Learn more about Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil1,2-Hexanediol is a multi-tasker ingredient. It acts as a preservative to increase shelf-life and can aid other preservatives in preventing microbe growth. 1,2-Hexanediol also helps the skin retain moisture as a humectant.
In products that are water-based, this ingredient can help stabilize perfumes and fragrances. It can also help make the texture of products softer and more smooth.
Ceramide NP is a type of ceramide.
Ceramides are intercellular lipids naturally found in our skin that bonds dead skin cells together to create a barrier. They are known for their ability to hold water and thus are a great ingredient for dry skin.
Ceramides are an important building block for our skin barrier. A stronger barrier helps the skin look more firm and hydrated. By bolstering the skin ceramides act as a barrier against irritating ingredients. This can help with inflammation as well.
If you would like to eat ceramides, sweet potatoes contain a small amount.
Read more about other common types of ceramides here: Ceramide AP Ceramide EOP
Learn more about Ceramide NPPhytosphingosine is a phospholipid naturally found in our skin. It helps moisturize, soothe, and protect skin.
Phytosphingosine is already present in our skin. On our skin, it is a building block for ceramides.
Phytosphingosine tells our skin to increase its natural moisturizing factor (NMF). The NMF is responsible for hydration, a strong barrier, and plasticity. Our NMF decreases with age. Increasing NMF leads to more healthy and hydrated skin.
Studies show products formulated with NMF ingredients help strengthen our skin's barrier. Having a healthy skin barrier reduces irritation and increases hydration. Our skin barrier is responsible for having plump and firm skin. It also helps protect our skin against infection, allergies, and inflammation.
Phytosphingosine is also abundant in plants and fungi.
More ingredients that help boost collagen in skin:
Learn more about PhytosphingosineBambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract comes from bamboo plant.
Bamboo extract has antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells, such as pollution.
A recent study found bamboo extract might interrupt the process of hyperpigmentation.
Learn more about Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem ExtractWe don't have a description for Aspalathus Linearis Extract yet.
Angelica Archangelica Root Extract is a fragrance.
We don't have a description for Malpighia Glabra Fruit Extract yet.
Hydrogenated Lecithin is created from the hydrogenation of lecithin. Hydrogenation is a chemical reaction between molecule hydrogen and another element.
Hydrogenated Lecithin is an emollient and emulsifier. As an emollient, it helps soften skin by trapping moisture within.
The phospholipids in Hydrogenated Lecithin can produce liposomes. Liposomes help other ingredients get through the skin barrier to be better absorbed.
As an emulsifier, it prevents oil and water ingredients from separating.
Learn more about Hydrogenated LecithinZea Mays Oil is refined oil. It is created from the process of wet milling corn, or zea mays. Zea Mays Oil is fragrance ingredient, hair conditioning agent, occlusive skin conditioning agent, surfactant, and emulsifying agent.
It is composed of several fatty acids, including myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic.
Panthenol is a common ingredient that helps hydrate and soothe the skin. It can be found naturally in our skin and hair.
This ingredient is also referred to as pro-vitamin B5 or dexpanthenol in dermatology.
Panthenol is famous due to its ability to go deeper into the skin's layers. Using this ingredient has numerous pros (and no cons):
Like hyaluronic acid, panthenol is a humectant. Humectants are able to bind and hold large amounts of water to keep skin hydrated.
Once oxidized, panthenol converts to pantothenic acid. Panthothenic acid is found in all living cells.
Learn more about PanthenolBeta-Carotene is a carotenoid. It is an antioxidant that converts to Vitamin A. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells, such as pollution.
It gives plants the red, orange, and yellow color. Some foods with Beta-Carotene include sweet potatoes, carrots, apricots, and cantaloupe.
Sodium Hyaluronate is hyaluronic acid's salt form. It is commonly derived from the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.
Like hyaluronic acid, it is great at holding water and acts as a humectant. This makes it a great skin hydrating ingredient.
Sodium Hyaluronate is naturally occurring in our bodies and is mostly found in eye fluid and joints.
These are some other common types of Hyaluronic Acid:
Learn more about Sodium HyaluronateTocopherol (also known as Vitamin E) is a common antioxidant used to help protect the skin from free-radicals and strengthen the skin barrier. It's also fat soluble - this means our skin is great at absorbing it.
Vitamin E also helps keep your natural skin lipids healthy. Your lipid skin barrier naturally consists of lipids, ceramides, and fatty acids. Vitamin E offers extra protection for your skin’s lipid barrier, keeping your skin healthy and nourished.
Another benefit is a bit of UV protection. Vitamin E helps reduce the damage caused by UVB rays. (It should not replace your sunscreen). Combining it with Vitamin C can decrease sunburned cells and hyperpigmentation after UV exposure.
You might have noticed Vitamin E + C often paired together. This is because it is great at stabilizing Vitamin C. Using the two together helps increase the effectiveness of both ingredients.
There are often claims that Vitamin E can reduce/prevent scarring, but these claims haven't been confirmed by scientific research.
Learn more about TocopherolReviews
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i liked this cleansing balm. it goes second place on my list of favorite cleansing balms but this one was actually really good. i did...
give it a try
i liked this cleansing balm. it goes second place on my list of favorite cleansing balms but this one was actually really good. i did like that it came with a little scooper so i wouldn't spread bacteria from my hands when picking up product. it is a little hard to take off but it easily cleaned up all my makeup and dirt from my face. what i don't like is that it literally gets in my eyes when i get to the part where i have to take my mascara off but other than that, i like this. i would buy it again if it wasn't for the price.
DamDamfino
I was really late on the Banila Clean it Zero trend. I mean, I had heard of it for years but didn't buy it or try it until 2022.
Did it live up...
I was really late on the Banila Clean it Zero trend. I mean, I had heard of it for years but didn't buy it or try it until 2022.
Did it live up to the hype? Eh, maybe not?
I enjoy the tactile sensation of spreading a semi-solid around my face. I do like the idea of a cleansing balm a lot. Most of the time I rub this on my face before hopping into the shower to rinse it off, and having the product stay on my face without dripping off is very nice!
I use it as a sunscreen and makeup remover before my second cleanse. At that task, it does a great job. But I don't think I could use this on it's own.
I find it to be very drying to my skin after rinsing off. A weird, almost gritty dry feeling.
I appreciate including the spatula to make scooping out the product more hygienic, but the problem is...where do I put the spatula in between uses? I just wish there was a better solution that involved less hands and less washing, because having to unscrew the cap, remove the spatula from the clear plastic lid, remove the clear plastic lid, then scoop the product, replace lids, wash face...etc etc is actually quite annoying to do every day while trying to keep everything clean and hygienic. Screwing a lid back on when I have a handful of product is *not* my favorite thing to do. I wish there was just a built in storage option for the spatula or something. Maybe a screw top jar just isn't the greatest packaging - or, I'd just rather use my fingers to scoop out the product!
For the price, its actually very inexpensive and will last a long time since you don't need to use a lot each time. A little goes a long way... but scooping always lends itself to scooping a large amount. I find myself using more than I should/need more often than not.
Would I repurchase this? If I were in a bind, sure. But right now I'd rather try other cleansing balms to find one I like better.
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