1 / 7La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel 400 ml
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is a face cleanser listed for oily, sensitive and blemish-prone skin. The listing says its Phylobioma ingredient and pH-optimising technology help purify skin and visibly reduce imperfections, while Zinc PCA is intended to help reduce excess oil.
At a glance
- Foaming gel cleanser intended for oily, sensitive and blemish-prone skin.
- The listing attributes pH-balancing and blemish-reduction benefits to Phylobioma and pH-optimising technology.
- Zinc PCA is described as helping purify skin and reduce excess oil.
Reference price: £19.18
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- The 400 ml listing size suits buyers who want a larger-format facial cleanser.
- The gel is lathered with warm water and rinsed off, making the stated routine straightforward.
- Customer feedback reports that some users find it leaves skin feeling clean and smooth without dryness.
Technical specifications
4 specifications| Brand | LA ROCHE POSAY |
|---|
| Dimensions listed | 6 x 6 x 20.5 cm; 460 g |
|---|
| Listed volume | 400ml |
|---|---|
| Directions | Lather cleanser in the hand with warm water. Massage gently onto face, avoiding eye area. Rinse. Pat dry. |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
Customer feedback is mixed on gentleness: some report stinging and redness despite the listing's sensitive-skin positioning. Avoid the eye area as directed and consider personal skin tolerance.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- People seeking a foaming facial cleanser for oily or blemish-prone skin.
- Buyers who want a larger 400 ml bottle and a rinse-off cleansing routine.
Less suited to
- People who need a cleanser confirmed to be non-stinging for their particular sensitive skin.
- Anyone seeking a leave-on blemish treatment rather than a rinse-off cleanser.

Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
78% 78% - 4 stars
12% 12% - 3 stars
4% 4% - 2 stars
2% 2% - 1 star
4% 4%
Customer feedback highlights perceived effectiveness on oily skin, a clean and smooth skin feel without dryness, and appreciation for the foaming action, fragrance and lasting use. Experiences are mixed on gentleness and skin appearance, with some reports of stinging and redness, and value for money also divides opinion. The generally favourable aggregate rating suggests many customers were satisfied, but it does not resolve whether this cleanser will suit sensitive skin or justify its cost for an individual buyer.
Positive themes
- Some customers describe effective cleansing for oily skin and a clean, smooth feel without dryness.
- Feedback also praises the fragrance, foaming action and lasting use.
Mixed feedback
- Reports on gentleness and skin appearance vary, including both perceived suitability for sensitive skin and reports of stinging or redness.
- Value for money is disputed, with some customers satisfied and others considering it not worth the cost.
Frequently asked questions
How should I use this cleanser?
Lather it in your hands with warm water, massage gently onto the face while avoiding the eye area, rinse and pat dry.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
The listing positions it for sensitive skin, but customer feedback includes both reports of gentleness and reports of stinging or redness. Individual tolerance may vary.
What does the listing say it does for oily or blemish-prone skin?
It claims that Phylobioma and pH-optimising technology help visibly reduce imperfections, while Zinc PCA helps purify skin and reduce excess oil.

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