Fresh just reformulated their iconic Soy Face Cleanser after two decades. The internet is in shambles — and honestly? I get it.
The old version had this weird, satisfying slime texture that felt like nothing else. The new one is… normal. That’s the real loss.
It’s still a $38 gel cleanser that claims to remove makeup without stripping. Same price, different bottle.
Texture Flip
Went from a thick, almost jelly-like slip to a runny, watery gel.
Fragrance Shift
The old cucumber-y smell is gone. Now it smells like… nothing. Literally nothing.
Lather Level
Slightly more foamy. Not bubbly, but definitely more suds than before.
Photo: Viktoriia Muzyka / Unsplash
They swapped the original amino acid surfactants for a coconut-derived alternative. The hero ingredient — soy protein — is still there, but it’s doing less heavy lifting now.
- Soy Protein: Still present, still soothing
- Coconut Surfactant: Gentler on paper, more drying in practice
- Aloe Vera: Cooling, but barely noticeable
- Cucumber Extract: Cut way back — RIP the scent
Photo: Content Pixie / Unsplash
First pump: runs through my fingers. Felt like I was washing with slightly thick water. Rinsed clean in 8 seconds — no residue, but also no satisfaction.
Two weeks in: my skin isn’t mad, but it’s not happy either. The old one left a bouncy, calm feeling. This one leaves… nothing. Which is fine. But fine isn’t why you paid $38.
Photo: Barbara Krysztofiak / Unsplash
My makeup removal is the same (good), but my post-wash glow is dimmer (bad). No breakouts, no irritation — just… meh.
Photo: Laura Chouette / Unsplash
The old Soy Face was an icon. The new one is a decent cleanser wearing its skin. I’m not mad — just disappointed.