10% FERMENTED RICE WATER CLEANSER - 1% VIT C & 0.5% GLYCOLIC ACID

What you need to know

This is a cleanser from Hyphen priced at ₹449.

Key ingredients

This cleanser features 10% fermented rice water, an ingredient popular in K-beauty for its purported brightening and skin-softening properties. Fermentation is thought to break down larger molecules, making them more bioavailable, though its efficacy in a wash-off product is debatable. How this goes wrong: Fermented ingredients can sometimes trigger fungal acne in susceptible individuals, or cause irritation if the skin barrier is compromised.

Who should use this

This cleanser might appeal to those with normal to oily skin looking for a gentle exfoliating and brightening effect from their daily cleanse. It could also be suitable for individuals curious about incorporating fermented ingredients into their routine without committing to a leave-on product. Those without sensitive skin who are already accustomed to mild chemical exfoliation may find this product agreeable.

Who should skip this

Individuals with sensitive, dry, or compromised skin barriers should likely skip this cleanser. The combination of vitamin C and glycolic acid, even at low concentrations, can be irritating for some, especially in a daily-use product. Pregnant women should avoid this due to the presence of glycolic acid and stick to a simple, non-active cleanser, coupled with a 100% mineral sunscreen for sun protection.

How to use

Apply a small amount to damp skin, gently massage in circular motions, and rinse thoroughly with water. Use once daily, preferably in the evening, as your primary cleanser. Do not layer with other actives in the same routine, especially leave-on exfoliants or strong retinoids, to avoid potential irritation.

What users say

With 2410 reviews on Nykaa, users generally find the rice water concept interesting, noting its K-beauty inspiration. The mild glycolic acid is often mentioned as being gentle enough for daily use in a cleanser, and the value proposition at Rs449 for 200ml is considered decent by many.

Price context

At Rs449 for 200ml, this cleanser offers decent value, especially considering the brand's celebrity backing. However, when compared to minimalist brands, it does carry a premium. For instance, while it's more expensive than basic drugstore cleansers, it's competitive with other active-infused cleansers on the market, though alternatives like Simple Refreshing Facial Wash often provide a simpler, equally effective cleanse at a lower price point without the multi-active complexity.

Final take

This cleanser is a decent option for those with normal to oily skin looking for an all-in-one product to gently brighten and exfoliate. However, the multi-active approach in a cleanser might be overkill for some, and those with sensitive skin should proceed with caution. We recommend it for individuals who appreciate unique formulations and are not prone to irritation from multiple actives.

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