Cleansers

Cleansing is the foundation of healthy skin. Done well, it supports the skin barrier, maintains balance, and prepares the skin to better absorb the rest of your routine. Done poorly, it can disrupt the barrier, increase sensitivity, and contribute to ongoing skin concerns.

At The Functional Skin, we approach cleansing as skin care, not just removal. This collection brings together some of Australia and New Zealand's best clean beauty cleansers, all barrier-respecting, low-tox, cruelty free, and suitable for a range of skin types. 

Explore The Functional Skin Cleansers

Within this collection you will find our very own The Functional Skin cleansers, formulated in Australia with a health-first approach. Designed to gently remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and daily buildup without stripping or compromising the skin's natural protective barrier, they are pH balanced and crafted with plant-based surfactants and nourishing oils.

Whether you prefer a gentle gel cleanser, an oil-based first cleanse, or a double cleanse routine, our cleansers are designed to cleanse thoroughly without disrupting the skin barrier.

Because healthy skin starts with how you cleanse.

When you choose The Functional Skin

  • Cruelty free

  • Australian made

  • Natural

  • Toxin free

Frequently Asked Cleanser Questions

Why is cleansing so important for skin health?

Cleansing removes impurities, excess oil, makeup, and environmental buildup that can interfere with the skin barrier. A well-formulated cleanser supports the skin’s natural function rather than disrupting it, helping maintain balance, comfort, and resilience over time.

What makes Functional Skin cleansers different?

We offer two cleansers in our range  - a pre cleanse and a gel cleanse for a deeper cleanse. They are designed to work with the skin’s natural biology, using low-tox, barrier-supportive ingredients rather than harsh detergents that can strip or irritate the skin.

Are Functional Skin cleansers suitable for sensitive or reactive skin?

Yes! Both The Lily Cleanser and The Grace Face Oil are formulated to be gentle, pH-balanced, and supportive of compromised or sensitive skin barriers. They are suitable for reactive, acne-prone, and sensitised skin types. I recommend starting with our Grace Face Oil cleanser as the most gentle option. 

Should I use an oil cleanser if I have acne-prone skin?

Oil cleansing can be beneficial for acne-prone skin when the oils are non-occlusive and well formulated. The Grace Face Oil uses lightweight oils like hemp seed, camellia, and squalane to dissolve makeup and impurities without clogging pores.

What is double cleansing and do I need it?

Double cleansing involves using an oil cleanser first to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser such as a balancing foaming cleanser to cleanse the skin. This can be helpful if you wear makeup, SPF, or live in an urban environment.

Can I use The Lily Cleanser every day?

Yes. The Lily Cleanser is pH-balanced and designed for daily use. It gently cleanses without disrupting the skin barrier, making it suitable for morning and evening cleansing.

How do I use The Grace Face Oil as a cleanser?

As a first cleanse, massage a small amount onto dry skin to dissolve makeup and sunscreen. Remove with a warm, damp cloth, then follow with The Lily Cleanser as your balancing face wash if double cleansing.

Are these cleansers pregnancy and breastfeeding friendly?

The Functional Skin cleansers are formulated with gentle, naturally derived ingredients and are commonly used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you have specific concerns, it is always best to consult your healthcare provider.