Even during facial cleansing, the skin barrier can be preserved, provided the formulation is physiologically well-balanced. The 01 Gentle Glow Cleanser relies on mild oil components combined with antioxidant ingredients. It contains glycerin-based or glycerin-related components such as free glycerin, glyceryl esters, and polyglyceryl compounds. These have a moisturizing effect, strengthen the skin barrier, and contribute to a balanced, supple skin feel. At the same time, they prevent the cleanser from stripping too much lipid from the facial skin, as is often the case with foaming soaps. Plant oils such as soybean and sunflower oil are not only tried-and-tested ingredients but have also been scientifically studied. Studies show that their topical application on healthy skin can improve skin hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) without disrupting the barrier function.

Soybean oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid that is a natural component of the intercellular lipid layer in the stratum corneum. Studies show that topically applied linoleic acid can reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and significantly improve skin barrier function (Fluhr et al., 2001; Elias et al., 2008). Sunflower oil, especially in its refined form with high oleic acid and vitamin E content, is also considered gentle on the skin barrier and well-tolerated. It contains skin-compatible triglycerides that can contribute to maintaining lipid balance (Lin TK et al., Pediatr Dermatol, 2016).

Sunflower oil (refined, with a high linoleic acid/vitamin E content) also contains skin-compatible triglycerides and vitamin E. Both oils have proven to be well-tolerated and gentle on the skin barrier in clinical studies, even compared to other vegetable oils with a higher oleic acid content. Sunflower oil has been investigated in controlled studies. For example, participants applied the oil to their forearms for four weeks. The result: The stratum corneum was preserved, no irritation occurred, and skin hydration increased.

Vitamin E (tocopherol) is one of the best-researched and most important antioxidants in the outer layer of skin (stratum corneum). It protects against the oxidative degradation of the skin's own lipids (lipid peroxidation), a key process in extrinsic skin aging (especially UV damage). Clinical studies have shown a reduction in inflammatory processes as well as an improvement in skin smoothness and texture when applied topically.