MALIN+GOETZ Grapefruit Face Cleanser Review

Malin+Goetz is one of those brands that makes top quality products in no-frills packaging. So far I have really liked all of their products- most notably their delightful Mojito Lip Balm (reviewed here).

The Grapefruit Face Cleanser was a very refreshing surprise- I expected it to be harsh and stripping on my combination skin, but it was not.

"Our foaming cleansing gel synthesizes natural grapefruit extract with amino acid-based cleansing agents. Unlike traditionally harsh detergents that can be drying, stripping and irritating, this formula gently and thoroughly purifies and hydrates to ph balance all skin types, especially sensitive. Rinses residue free, eliminating the need for a toner. Perfect make-up removal. Natural fragrance and color. Easily integrated into daily maintenance and prevention regimen."

Additional claims:

0.5% Grapefruit Extract. All Skin Types.
Amino Acid Hydration Technology - FC-100-08.

+ #1 best seller, for all skin types
+ Gentle enough for dry, sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
+ Removes make-up, alternative to oil-based/milk cleansers
+ Natural antibacterial grapefruit helps prevent blemishes

"Grapefruit Face Cleanser contains glycerin, natural grapefruit extracts and sodium pca hydrate. Grapefruit extracts in this cleanser has cleansing, exfoliating properties while glycerin, sodium PCA and amino acids hydrate and soothe skin."

It does not contain: Parabens, silicones, synthetic dyes, waxes, harsh detergents, dyes and synthetic perfumes. NO ANIMAL TESTING.

My experience with Grapefruit Face Cleanser: I have been using this cleanser with my Clarisonic in the mornings only for a few weeks, and I must say that the combination of the cleanser and the Clarisonic works wonders. Grapefruit is a natural exfoliator- so between the cleanser and the device I find that my skin and pores are cleaned thoroughly without being stripped of their natural oils. My skin neither feels squeaky clean, nor does it feel tight and uncomfortable after use. I did not find the smell of the grapefruit to be overwhelming, nor did I find it too harsh as I expected it to be. My skin simply felt deliciously fresh and clean. That said, I have decidedly combination skin with an active T-zone, and while I think this is well suited for combination and oilier skin types I have serious questions as to whether people with drier  or sensitive skin types will find this product too astringent. I suspect that the exfoliating effects of the grapefruit extract may be too active for those with dry and/or sensitive skin (at least for use on a daily basis). I would suggest trying a sample before committing to the purchase of the full-sized product- if you find that you are interested in this cleanser (but are uncertain as to whether or not it's a good match for your skin).

Overall assessment: I'm quite pleased with this cleanser- it works wonders on my combination skin. I'm left with clean supple skin that is not stripped, tight, or uncomfortable. However, I am not sure that it is suited for all skin types as they claim. I think that this product may be a touch too active with its exfoliating properties to be a suitable daily cleanser for those with dry skin or sensitive skin. You will have to judge for yourself, but I would try a sample first. It may, however, be a perfect "treatment" cleanser for those with drier skin- to be used on occasion, rather than on a daily basis.

$30.00  8 oz. from Malin+Goetz,  Barneys New York, Bloomingdale's.
Stock images from Main+Goetz