Gentle Cleanser

Name: Differin Gentle Cleanser
Brand: Differin

cleanserbudget

Overall score6.0

Differin Gentle Cleanser scores 6.0/9.8 overall. It ranks highest in formulation safety (9.0) and low irritation risk (8.9).

✶ Hero ingredients

#2Cetyl Alcohol

Fatty alcohol that softens skin

#3Propylene Glycol

Moisture-binding humectant and penetration enhancer

#4Stearyl Alcohol

Fatty alcohol emollient

Score breakdown

Overall

6.0

Hydration Efficacy4.2

Irritation Risk8.9

Active Ingredient Strength2.0

Ingredient Transparency6.3

Formulation Safety9.0

Estimated — based on ingredient analysis. Scores refine as user reviews are added.

Scores last verified: April 2026

What makes Differin Gentle Cleanser stand out

Differin Gentle Cleanser is a decent cleanser with an overall score of 6.0/9.8. Positioned in the budget bracket, it takes a straightforward approach to skincare. The formula leads with Cetyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Stearyl Alcohol — ingredients that support the skin barrier and moisture levels.

It performs well on low irritation risk (8.9). On the flip side, hydration could be stronger and active ingredient concentration is on the lighter side.

Is this right for you?

Great for

✓Sensitive skin — low irritation risk with a gentle formulation
✓Safety-conscious shoppers — clean formulation with minimal flags

May not suit

⚠Very dry skin types looking for heavy-duty moisture
⚠Those seeking potent actives — this leans more maintenance than treatment

Key ingredients

✶
Cetyl Alcohol
Softens and smooths — #2 in the INCI list
✶
Propylene Glycol
Draws in moisture — #3 in the INCI list
✶
Stearyl Alcohol
Softens and smooths — #4 in the INCI list

Full ingredient list

8 ingredients — listed in INCI order (highest concentration first)

#1Water #2Cetyl Alcohol #3Propylene Glycol #4Stearyl Alcohol #5Sodium Lauryl Sulfate #6Propylparaben #7Methylparaben #8Butylparaben

Compare with similar products

Ingredient breakdown

Keeps the product fresh3
Softens and smooths2
Other ingredient1
Draws in moisture1
Holds the formula together1

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