PHAZE PHA Clarifying Face Wash for sensitive skin

Phaze™ Gel Cleanser

Name: Phaze™ Gel Cleanser
Brand: Pai Skincare
SKU: PAI-2018
Price: 29.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

£29.00

100ml / 3.4 fl.oz

A foaming gel cleanser that actually leaves skin hydrated, not tight. PHA exfoliation clears congestion and blackheads with 79% reporting clearer skin in just two weeks.

Balancing

Cleansing

Hydrating

Clarifying

Exfoliating

Barrier Supporting

Free delivery when you spend £30* | 90-Day returns

Phaze™ Gel Cleanser

£29.00

•

Vegan

•

Cruelty Free

Why You'll Love It

CLEAR SKIN HAS NEVER FELT SO GOOD

Our clarifying cleanser is designed to decongest blemish-prone skin without drying even the most sensitive complexions. Gently exfoliating Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) unclog pores, while skin-balancing actives strengthen the barrier and hydrate even once rinsed away.

This fresh take on foam changes the game. A green gel inside and out, it's expertly formulated with certified natural actives that work in perfect harmony. The key to it all? Gluconolactone, a plant-derived PHA.

This next-generation exfoliating acid has a larger molecular size than AHAs, so it works at the skin's surface where it's needed, without the stinging or irritation. Our trials proved it, too. Twice as many testers said the appearance of blackheads was reduced after two weeks compared to initial use, and 72% said blemishes looked reduced.

Plant-derived sugar and betaine surfactants bring the foam, with none of the stripping that sulfate-based cleansers are known for. Prebiotic Inulin supports your skin's microbiome by feeding the good bacteria and keeping blemish-causing ones in check.

And the NMF Sugar Complex? It binds directly to your skin's keratin, so it can't be rinsed away. That means hydration that lasts up to 72 hours, long after you've patted dry. Clear skin, without compromise.

Directions

Apply 1–2 pumps to damp skin and massage gently across the face, avoiding the eye area. Works brilliantly on wet skin in the shower, too.

Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Your skin should feel clean and comfortable, never tight. That's the NMF Sugar Complex doing its thing, binding to your skin and continuing to hydrate long after the foam's gone down the drain.

For best results, use in the evening as the second step of a double cleanse, after removing makeup with Light Work Cleansing Oil. You can use it in the morning too if your skin needs a reset.

Want the full clarifying routine? Follow with Century Flower to reinforce your barrier, All Becomes Clear Blemish Serum to target breakouts, and Carbon Star Overnight Face Oil to balance things out while you sleep.

Full Ingredients

Aqua (water), Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Lauryl Glucoside, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glycerin**, Caprylyl/capryl Glucoside, Inulin, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Levulinate, Gluconolactone, Glyceryl Oleate, Sorbitan Caprylate, Sodium Anisate, Saccharide Isomerate, Sodium Phytate, Fructose, Citrus Aurantifolia Peel Oil*, Boswellia Neglecta Resin Oil* (frankincense oil), Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil* (rosemary oil), Maltodextrin, Sodium Citrate, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract (gardenia extract), Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract (gardenia extract).

98% natural origin.

*Organic **Made using organic ingredients

Recycling

Say no to landfill! Let's recycle everything! - Sarah

Once all the product has been dispensed, unscrew the pump from the bottle to separate the pump, cap and pouch from the glass bottle. Place the glass bottle into your household recycling. Place the pump, cap and pouch into your Pai mailer for delivery back to us.

All Pai boxes, cartons, sleeves and inserts can be recycled with your household paper recycling.

The majority of your Pai packaging can be recycled at home, but some components need specialist recycling. We've partnered with a specialist programme to make this as easy as possible for our UK customers.

Keep your Pai mailer box (it can be flat packed for easy storage). Fill it with the packaging elements you can't recycle at home, and clearly label the box RECYCLING. Create your free returns label and drop it off at the post office.

Please note we are unable to accept glass or non-Pai packaging. Glass bottles can be separated and placed into your household recycling.

If you are in the UK and unsure what your local services accept, visit recyclenow.com.

79%

said their skin looked clearer*
72%

said it reduced the appearance of blemishes*
87%

said their skin felt less oily*

*Two week independent consumer trial with 115 women.

Key Ingredients

Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA)

This formula is powered by Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) in the form of Gluconolactone, which gently resurfaces to reveal smoother, clearer and glowier skin. The larger molecule size means PHAs penetrate the skin less deeply than AHAs and BHAs – making them a better fit for sensitive complexions.
Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF) Sugar Complex

This plant-derived carbohydrate complex is near-identical to those found in the skin. It binds to it like a magnet to deeply hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier, for comfort that lasts.
Prebiotic Inulin

Extracted from chicory roots, this protective prebiotic rebalances the skin’s microbiota to form a natural defensive shield – keeping the skin barrier healthy to help calm sensitivity. We only source our Inulin from suppliers that ensure it's scientifically tested for its prebiotic properties.

"For years, customers asked us for a foam cleanser that targets blemishes without stripping sensitive skin. We said no – because foaming agents often leave skin feeling uncomfortably tight. Until now. We've created a feel-good foam cleanser that helps to keep breakouts at bay while locking hydration in. A new Phaze in sensitive skincare."

SARAH BROWN
FOUNDER, PAI SKINCARE

How do I use Phaze in my skincare routine?

Apply 1 to 2 pumps to damp skin, massage gently across the face (avoiding the eye area), then rinse and pat dry. It works brilliantly as the second step in a double cleanse after Light Work Cleansing Oil in the evening, or on its own in the morning. Follow with Century Flower mist and your preferred Pai serum and moisturiser.

Is Phaze suitable for sensitive, oily, or combination skin?

Phaze is specifically designed for that tricky overlap of blemish-prone and sensitive skin that most foaming cleansers can't handle. It's non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores, and the sulfate-free formula means no barrier stripping or compensatory oiliness. It does contain low levels of essential oils (lime, frankincense, rosemary), so if you have known essential oil sensitivities, patch test first.

What does Phaze smell like?

Phaze has a subtle citrus-herbal scent from three botanical extracts: lime (Citrus aurantifolia), frankincense (Boswellia neglecta resin oil), and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). These are functional ingredients at low concentrations, not added fragrances. The overall effect is light and refreshing rather than perfumed.

Why is Phaze green?

The distinctive green colour comes from Gardenia jasminoides fruit extract, a natural botanical colourant. Gardenia fruit contains yellow crocin pigments and blue genipin-derived pigments which combine to produce that characteristic green gel. No synthetic dyes involved.

Is Phaze safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Yes, Phaze is confirmed pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It uses gentle, plant-derived actives (gluconolactone, inulin, saccharide isomerate) with no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy, and it's free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, alcohol, and synthetic fragrance.

Is Phaze suitable for acne-prone skin already using prescription treatments or retinoids?

Phaze's gentle formulation makes it a sensible cleanser to pair with stronger prescription actives. The PHA (gluconolactone) exfoliates at the skin's surface without deep penetration, and the sulfate-free surfactants won't further compromise a barrier that retinoids may already be sensitising. That said, if your skin is actively irritated or peeling from prescription treatments, introduce Phaze gradually and consult your dermatologist if you're unsure.

What is PHA and why is it better for sensitive skin than other acids?

PHA (polyhydroxy acid) is a next-generation exfoliant with larger molecules than AHAs like glycolic acid, so it works at the skin's surface without penetrating deep enough to cause stinging or irritation. Phaze uses gluconolactone, a PHA derived from maize glucose, which also doubles as a humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to skin while it exfoliates. Unlike glycolic acid, it doesn't increase sun sensitivity, making it safe for year-round daily use.

How does the prebiotic inulin in Phaze help with blemishes?

Inulin from chicory root selectively feeds beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Staphylococcus epidermidis while inhibiting blemish-causing species like Cutibacterium acnes. This means the cleansing step actively supports your skin's microbiome rather than disrupting it, helping to keep breakout-triggering bacteria in check.

How does Phaze's NMF Sugar Complex hydrate skin from a rinse-off cleanser?

NMF Sugar Complex (saccharide isomerate), derived from kernel corn, is structurally near-identical to the carbohydrate complex in your skin's own Natural Moisturising Factor. It bonds covalently to the keratin in your skin cells, so when you rinse off Phaze, the hydrating complex stays put and keeps attracting moisture. In clinical testing, saccharide isomerate delivered sustained hydration for up to 72 hours from a single application and reduced transepidermal water loss by 20% after 28 days, outperforming glycerin by nearly 50% in moisture retention.

What certifications does Phaze hold?

Phaze is COSMOS Natural certified by the Soil Association, Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, and registered vegan. It's dermatologist tested and approved, non-comedogenic, and independently 96-hour patch tested on sensitive skin volunteers. The formula is 98% natural, free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, alcohol, synthetic dyes, and synthetic fragrance, and holds RSPO palm certification.

What clinical evidence supports Phaze's effectiveness?

A consumer trial of 115 women with oily or combination skin over 14 days found 79% said skin looked clearer, 72% reported reduced blemishes (with a 58% progressive improvement from first use to day 14), and agreement on reduced blackheads more than doubled (from 31% to 65%). Skin texture, radiance, and evenness of tone all showed progressive improvement over the two weeks, with 81% reporting smoother skin and 80% reporting more radiant skin.

What makes Phaze different from other foaming cleansers for blemish-prone skin?

Most foam cleansers use sulfate-based surfactants that strip your skin's natural lipids, leaving it tight and dehydrated. Phaze uses plant-derived sugar-based and betaine-based surfactants to create a satisfying lather without compromising your barrier. It also deposits a hydrating complex (NMF Sugar Complex) that binds to skin and keeps working for up to 72 hours after rinsing, so it's one of the rare cleansers that actually leaves skin more hydrated than it started.

Why should I choose Phaze over an AHA or salicylic acid cleanser for breakouts?

AHA and salicylic acid (BHA) cleansers penetrate deeper into the skin, which makes them effective but also more likely to cause stinging, dryness, and irritation, especially if your skin is sensitive. Phaze uses gluconolactone, a PHA with larger molecules that exfoliates at the surface layer only, so you get the decongesting benefits without the burn. It also deposits lasting hydration and supports your microbiome while cleansing, whereas most acid cleansers strip both moisture and beneficial bacteria along with the breakouts.

Overall rating: 4.7771883 / 5 from 377 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

Phaze™ Gel Cleanser is praised for its ability to decongest blemish-prone skin without drying, leaving it feeling clean, soft, and hydrated. Customers appreciate its gentle formulation, which avoids red skin and flare-ups, and its effective reduction of blackheads and breakouts. The product's lovely, fresh smell and foamy texture contribute to a refreshing and rejuvenating cleansing experience.

Summary topics

Skin Reaction (4%): Customers keep praising the product for avoiding red skin and flare-ups, with no reactions reported.
Skin Feel After Wash (17%): A significant number of customers appreciated the face wash for its ability to make their skin feel clean and soft.
Skin Feel After Cleansing (25%): A significant amount of customers expressed appreciation for how this product leaves their skin feeling fresh and clean.
Cleansing Effectiveness (3%): It was noted by customers that the wash is great and leaves their skin feeling super clean but comfortable.
Gentle Cleansing (5%): It was highlighted by customers that Phaze is a gentle face wash that hydrates and improves skin texture.

Review topics: ["size","irritation","smell","issues","results","improvement","feels","service","ingredients","texture","skin","works","packaging","spots","looks","use","bottle","face","breakouts","difference","formula","acne","balance","cleanser","redness","consistency","weather","phaze","pores","wash"].

Review highlights

"I love Pai's latest face wash - the smell and lather are divine and feel so wonderful on my skin." — Michelle L.
"My face feels balanced and my skin hasn’t looked this great in months." — Alison C.
"Really love this cleanser, skin feels smooth and clean after using it." — Jessica H.

Reviews

Gentle and amazin

"Love everything about this face wash. It’s gentle to sensitive skin, it feels lovely to use and your face feels lovely and clean with becoming dry. What a find."

— Claire A. (5/5)

Perfect!

"I switched from Clearstem face wash to this. I was worried it would be too drying but it’s not. It suds up well and removes all my makeup with 1-2 pumps. The only downside is side for me is the price. We will see how long this lasts me!"

— Abby (5/5)

Fabulous

"Sorted my daughter's skin issues and my post menopausal breakouts"

— Miss M. (5/5)

Amazing

"Really made my skin feel great"

— Jayne W. (5/5)

"Pai Phaze Gel Cleanser is gentle on the skin, has a fresh scent and feels light. This product foams well, is natural and clean."

— I (4/5)

Bought this for my 14 year old son

"This works wonderfully on my 14 year old son's skin. He is very resistant to putting any creams on his face but would like to clear up his acne and this cleasner helps a lot. I put 18-24 on the age range but the person who uses this is 14."

— Kerry T. (5/5)

My pores look smaller

"I think we have to be careful applying this product on the face. I normally wet my face a little bit before applying this product. After that, I use very little amount of this product and give a very short and very gentle massage on my face, and wash my face immediately. If I massage my face a little bit long, indeed my face will turn red. But if I do it gently and wash it immediately, it will give amazing result. My pores look smaller. I normally use this product not more than once in a day as it is more than enough. Amazing product, very satisfied."

— Risa (5/5)

ENCANTADA!

"Me siento súper bien con mi nuevo jabón para lavar la cara, ya que me limpia muy bien sin secarme la piel. Además que deja una textura muy agradable y muy fresca."

— Magnolia P. (5/5)

Buying over and over again

"Not sure how many of these bottles I have bought over the years, but it’s been a game changer for my skin. It’s so much clearer, my makeup comes off really nicely and easily, great texture. ."

— Stephanie S. (5/5)

Phaze Gel Cleanser is Fantastic

"I have very sensitive combination skin. The cleanser is definately my number 1 go to. No irritation and my skin feels soft after use."

— Saleena I. (5/5)

Q&A

Can i use this product during lactation: Hi Gizem, yes this product is safe to use during both pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pai Customer Experience Team
I am looking for a simple one step cleanse routine. Which of your cleansers does the most effective job at removing your SPF without the need to use another cleanser after?: Hi Amy, We would recommend Phaze if you have an oily skin type or Light Work if you have a dry to normal skin type. These will both effectively remove SPF or any build up throughout the day. Pai Customer Experience Team
Hey, is it okay to use this if i am breastfeeding ?: Hi Youmna, Thank you for getting in touch. This rinse off cleanser if fine for use during pregnancy and beyond. Pai Customer Experience Team Member
Hello, How long will one bottle last me if I use it once a day?: Hi Camille, A bottle should last anywhere between 2-3 months depending on the quantity you use per application. Pai Customer Experience Team
Is it normal to purge with this product, and is it ok to be using it once everyday?: Hi Sophie, This clarifying cleanser is designed to decongest blemish-prone skin which means it works to draw out any impurities. These can approach the surface of the skin which can look like purging and is completely normal. I would recommend to continue using the cleanser to decongest the skin fully and the blemishes will also clear up after being drawn out. Pai Customer Experience Team

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