If your skin feels tight all the time right after washing, you really need to reconsider your cleanser, and perhaps, this Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash vs Prequel Gleanser showdown can save your skin barrier.
When it comes to skincare, discovering the dry skin perfect cleanser can seem like searching for a needle in a haystack. With so many options on the market, it’s important to select a product that not only washes your skin but also moisturizes and nourishes it. Two of the most well-known players in the hydrating cleanser game are the Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash and the Prequel Gleanser. Both products are said to cleanse without robbing your skin of moisture, but which one is the winner?
In this post, we’re going to be comparing the features, benefits, and performance of both cleaners so you can make the best decision possible. Whether you’re dry, oily, or combination, we’ve got you covered with all you need to know to find your best fit.
Did You Know?
Cleansing too much or using a harsh face wash is one of the major causes of a damaged skin barrier which then causes breakouts, redness, and long-term chronic dryness.
Also Read: Best Mineral Sunscreen: ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica or CeraVe SPF 50?
Quick Comparison Table: Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash vs Prequel Gleanser
| Feature | Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash | Prequel Gleanser |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Lightweight gel | Soft gel-cream |
| Key Benefits | Deep hydration, barrier repair | Gentle cleanse, no tightness |
| Skin Type | Dry, sensitive, combo | All skin types (especially dry) |
| Fragrance-free? | Yes | Yes |
| Star Ingredients | Aquaporin boosters, glycerin, amino acids | Ceramides, glycerin, niacinamide |
| pH Level | 5.5 | ~5.5 |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Sulfate-free | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Budget-friendly hydration | Plush, creamy hydration |
1. Minimalist 5% Aquaporin Booster Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid
An Overview:
This Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid is created to enhance water channels in your skin so it gets that deeper level of hydration even during the cleansing process. It’s a soap-free, sulfate-free formula that uses glycerin, amino acids, and a bioactive complex to keep your skin calm and soft.
This is the face wash for you if you want hydration at a low price point without forgoing skin science.
Key benefits:
- Hydration Boost: Aquaporin technology locks in moisture, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated after cleansing.
- Mild Formula: It is sulphate and paraben-free, and safe for sensitive skin.
- Balanced pH: Helps to keep your skin’s natural defense barrier to avoid dry, itching (eczema), or irritated skin.
Texture, Feel & Suitability
The Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash has a gel-like texture that turns into a mild foam when used. It is very refreshing to the skin on initial contact and washes away clean. This particular product is ideal for all skin types, particularly sensitive and dry skin.
Battle Outcome: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Super affordable
- Lightweight, hydrating formula
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Great for sensitive skin types
Cons
- May not remove heavy makeup effectively
- Some users may find the scent mild
2. Prequel Glycerin Cleanser
An Overview:
Gleanser by Prequel, a brand co-founded by a dermatologist, is a universal, skin barrier-supporting cleanser brought to you by a dermatologist-founded brand that is not playing. It has a minimalist formula with so much glycerin, niacinamide, ceramides, and gentle surfactants. Gleanser is regarded as exceptionally mild, silky, and pH-balanced.
It’s a cult-favorite of dry and reactive skin types — and a classic in minimalist routines, as well.
Key Benefits:
- Deep Cleansing: It can remove dirt, oil, and make-up without leaving behind any pore-clogging residue.
- Hydrating Ingredients: Quick-absorbing and rich, nourishing ingredients such as green tea and glycerin help alleviate dry skin.
- Antioxidant protection: Green tea extract has antioxidant properties that protect the skin against environmental stressors.
Texture, Feel & Suitability
The Prequel Gleanser has a soft, creamy texture that can be applied gently onto the skin. It’s a warm embrace on the skin, feels moisturized, which is perfect for those with dry or combination skin. It’s safe for all skin types, even sensitive skin.
Battle Outcome: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Removes grime, oil, and light makeup without over-drying
- Fortifies your skin barrier
- Leaves skin soft, plump, and hydrated
- Ideal for AM and PM cleansing
- Works for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive.
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- May feel heavy for oily skin types
Ingredient Spotlight: How They Stack Up
| Ingredient | Minimalist Aquaporin | Prequel Gleanser | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glycerin | High | Repair and soothe the skin barrier | Humectant (hydrates skin) |
| Aquaporin Boosters | Yes | No | Improve water flow in skin cells |
| Amino Acids | Yes | No | Strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier |
| Ceramides | No | Yes | Strengthen skin’s lipid barrier |
| Niacinamide | No | Yes | Anti-inflammatory, improves tone |
| Surfactants | Mild | Very Mild | Cleanse skin without stripping |
| Fragrance/Essential Oils | No | No | Non-irritating for sensitive skin |
Real Results: How They Perform Side by Side
In terms of performance, both cleansers have their good points. The Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash is close to a perfect cleanser in terms of hydration and is suitable for dry skin. Its mild formula leaves your skin feeling clean and not tight.
On the other hand, the Prequel Gleanser excels at getting your makeup and impurities off your face. It feels so luxurious with its creamy texture, so it’s no wonder it is something I turn to when I want a more indulgent cleanse.
My Pro Tip: Combine either cleanser with a ceramide-containing moisturizer. If your skin feels dry after the Minimalist one, move immediately to the hydration of a mist or serum
My Experience with Both
After testing both cleansers out, the Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash was a gentle and soothing cleanser that left my skin moisturised and cool. And I loved how it doesn’t dry your skin out. The bonus was the gel-like texture, which made it easy to apply and rinse off.
The Prequel Gleanser was, in comparison, rather sumptuous. It was soothing as it is creamy, and it took my makeup off without harsh scrubbing. But I did find it has a bit of a residue, which you may not enjoy.
Wrapping Up: Choosing Between Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash or Prequel Gleanser
Ultimately, the choice between the Minimalist Aquaporin Face Wash and the Prequel Gleanser depends on your skin type and preference. Opt for Minimalist if hydrating and a gentle cleanse are at the top of your mind. But if you want something that really strips makeup but leaves (in my humble opinion) great nutrition, Prequel Gleanser may be your winner.
The products each have their strengths, and you won’t be disappointed when you go with either. Don’t forget to factor in what your skin needs and what type of cleanse you want as you decide!
FAQs
Can I use both cleansers together?
Yes, you can use both cleansers in your routine. For example, you can face wash with the Minimalist Aquaporin in the morning, but face wash using the Prequel Gleanser at night.
Can both these cleaners be used for sensitive skin?
Each of the two cleansers is gentle and appropriate for sensitive skin. But you should always do a patch test.
Which cleanser is better for eczema-prone skin?
Prequel Gleanser is more suited for eczema-prone or extremely sensitive skin, thanks to ceramides and niacinamide.
