A pH-balanced gel cleanser with plant-based AHAs that removes impurities, gently exfoliates, and leaves skin soft and refreshed — without stripping its natural moisture. Gentle enough for daily use.
Removes impurities without over-drying
Gently exfoliates with plant-based alpha hydroxy acids
Skin hydrating panthenol and calming centella asiatica (Cica)
Better together
Hydrating and calming essence is perfect to use after cleansing to prep and balance skin for next product.
About this product
Most cleansers make a trade-off. Strong enough to actually clean and you're left tight, dry, and irritated. Gentle enough to feel comfortable and you're not sure it did anything. This one was built to avoid that.
A pH-balanced gel formula with plant-based AHAs — from willow bark, bilberry, sugar cane, lemon, and orange — that dissolves dead skin cells and unclogs pores without disrupting the barrier underneath. Panthenol and aloe replenish moisture as you rinse. Turmeric and gotu kola calm any inflammation from the day.
No lather doesn't mean it's not working. The formula is intentionally low-foam — high-lather cleansers rely on sulphates that strip the barrier. This one cleans without stripping, so skin comes out hydrated, not oily, and ready to absorb what comes next.
Works as a body wash too. And for chest or back acne. And as a second cleanse if you double-cleanse.
How to use
Step 1 — Dispense the gel cleanser onto fingertips. Massage into damp skin to emulsify. Splash with warm water to rinse away the day without stripping skin of its natural protective oils.
Step 2 — Follow with Replenishing Essence to calm and prepare skin for next steps.
Step 3 — Apply Triple C Serum and Hydrating Moisturizer to complete your routine. Use SPF in the morning.
Tip — Works as a body wash, for chest or back acne, and as a second step in a double cleanse.
Key ingredients
Shipping & returns
Domestic shipping: Free on all U.S. orders $60 or more.
International shipping: Free on orders $200 or more.
Processing time: 3-5 business days after checkout.
Delivery: Tracking number sent by email when your order ships. Delivery time varies by shipping method chosen at checkout.
Damaged products: If your order arrives damaged, email layers@plantkosskincare.com with photos and your order details. We'll arrange a replacement or refund.
Frequent questions
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes. Free shipping on all U.S. orders $60 or more, and on international orders $200 or more.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are processed within 3-5 business days after checkout. Once your order ships, you'll get a tracking number by email. Delivery time depends on the shipping method you selected.
Why doesn't this cleanser lather much?
High-lather cleansers rely on sulphates — ingredients that strip the barrier along with the impurities. This formula uses a sulphate-free cleansing system that removes what needs to go without over-stripping. Less foam doesn't mean less clean. Skin comes out hydrated, not tight.
Is this suitable for sensitive skin?
The formula is gentle and pH-balanced, and suitable for most skin types. Willow bark is a natural salicylic acid precursor — if you have a known sensitivity to salicylates or very reactive skin, do a patch test first: apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours before using on your face.
Can I use this every day?
Yes. It's formulated for daily use — morning and night. The exfoliation is gradual rather than intensive, so it works best with consistent daily use rather than occasional heavy use.
Can I use this on my body?
Yes. It works well as a body wash and is particularly effective for chest or back acne. Also useful as a second cleanse in a double-cleanse routine.
Are your products safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Our formulas are built with clean clinical actives suitable for all skin types. That said, we always recommend checking with your physician during pregnancy or breastfeeding — what's right for your situation is a conversation worth having.
What is your return policy?
We don't accept general returns. Our 45-Day Guarantee covers full-size Triple C Serum, Hydrating Moisturizer, Revitalizing Eye Cream and Reviving Face Cream purchased at Plantkos.com, and doesn't apply to this product. If your order arrives damaged, email layers@plantkosskincare.com with photos and your order details. Shipping and taxes excluded.
Gentle Exfoliating Gel Cleanser
RESET THE SURFACE,
THEN WATCH SKIN LOOK CLEARER.
TIGHT FEELING
THAT WORKS
OVER TIME
What’s inside, and why it works
Designed to Support Skin Through Three Clinical Pathways
Hydrate
Support lasting hydration to help maintain skin comfort, resilience, and visible firmness.
Protect
Support barrier integrity and microbiome balance to help skin retain moisture and defend against daily environmental stressors.
Calm
Thoughtfully formulated to minimize unnecessary irritation while supporting skin comfort and long-term skin health and longevity.
Reviews
- BBellaVerified ReviewerRated 5 out of 5 stars8 months agoWould so recommend!
I have had acne/acne prone skin for about six years. I was constantly in dermatology appointments and used prescribed topicals for all those six years.
This past year in march I started to use the Plantkos Gentle Exfoliating Gel cleanser and I have gotten absolutely AMAZING results within a short amount of time. Like nothing before!! 100% recommend!!
- MEMelissa E.Rated 5 out of 5 stars1 year agoHelps with discoloration on face
I'm a very simple person who usually only uses water to wash my face. As I got older, I noticed discoloration on my face because of the sun. A friend recommended this product to me and I decided to try it out. I have been using this product twice a day. I can confidently say that this product works! After 6 months of use, I can see a big difference in the discoloration on my face. I also like that my face feels so refreshed after using it. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who has discoloration or blemishes.
- IieashaRated 5 out of 5 stars1 year agoGo to cleanser
Hello, This is your beauty expertise Ieasha. When it come to my skin I have to be gentle and loving. Here is what I experienced while I use Phyto Exfoliating Cleanser. To tell you a little about the in your palm feeling I can inform you of this, It comes in a glass bottle and is pump despinsed.This product spreads very easily. A little goes a long way. It does not have much leather, and has little to no sense. It's not thick and tacky. It's very light.I truly feel that Phyto Exfoliating Cleanser, is gentle on the skin and cleans well. I got a deep cleansing feeling to my skin and it keeps my skin hydrated, not oily. After using for one weeks my skin was brighter leaving a even appearance and healing break out scars fast. My skin also felt tight. With the anti-inflammatory activities that this products gives, It's good to use before and after break out.
- HHannahsornsonRated 4 out of 5 stars2 years agoLoved the versatility
I was so excited to get this product and so upset when I had a reaction to it. Unfortunately something in this product made my skin break out and really patchy. I have never had a reaction to a cleanser like this before. I have very sensitive skin and I’m assuming one of plant base products like maybe the willow bark I was slightly allergic too. While I was really upset that I couldn’t use this product as a face wash I was beyond excited and I realized this product is so much more than a face wash. You can use it as a body wash, shampoo and shaving gel! I continued to use the product as a body wash and shaving gel and I had no issues at all, I think my face was just a little too sensitive to something. I would still rate this product a 4/5 for its versatility, clean ingredients and packaging. I would recommend this to someone with not so sensitive skin.
- MMonabeautyRated 5 out of 5 stars2 years agoPhyto cleanser
I was so excited to receive this product! As an esthetician and a beauty junkie, I love skincare and unique ingredients that will get you thinking and doing more research! Phyto is such an amazing brand and i loved every single one of the products that I received. It is great for all skin types in my opinions and truly delivers what it claims. It is hydrating and smoothing. The price is also amazing and the packaging is adorable with the red color. The products are gentle, I never felt scared or skeptical about using this brand that was new to me. But i enjoyed it so very much and give it a 5 star rating and i recommend it to everyone looking for a great exfoliating cleanser. It is one of the most gentle cleansers that i have used with great ingredients.
Free US
Shipping $60+
Orders dispatched within 24 hours
No Harsh
Preservatives
No artificial colors, dyes, or fillers
Fragrance Free,
Vegan & Natural
Sustainably sourced, eco-friendly
