My Honest Review of Neutrogena Original Facial Cleansing Bar with Glycerine

Finding the perfect facial cleanser can be a challenge, especially if you have sensitive or combination skin. One product that has stood the test of time is the Neutrogena Original Facial Cleansing Bar with Glycerine. Known for its gentle yet effective cleansing properties, this soap has gained a loyal following. But does it truly live up to the hype? I decided to test it out myself to see if it’s worth adding to my skincare routine. Below is my honest, in-depth review, covering everything from packaging to effectiveness and value for money.

Packaging

The packaging is simple and functional, which is something I appreciate in a skincare product. The bar comes in a recyclable cardboard box, making it a more environmentally friendly option than plastic-heavy alternatives. Inside, the soap is wrapped in plastic for hygiene purposes.

The design is minimalistic, featuring the classic Neutrogena logo and clear product information. There are no unnecessary frills, but it provides all the essential details, including ingredients and usage instructions. The bar itself is transparent, which gives it a unique look compared to other opaque cleansing bars.

One thing to note is that the packaging is tamper-evident, which reassures me of the product’s safety. It’s also easy to open and store, which makes it practical for daily use.

Ingredients

Skincare enthusiasts will appreciate that Neutrogena’s cleansing bar has a straightforward ingredient list. It contains a mix of natural and synthetic components, with glycerin being a key moisturizing agent.

Here’s a quick breakdown of its main ingredients:

• Glycerin – A humectant that attracts moisture, helping to keep skin hydrated.
• Triethanolamine & TEA-Stearate – These help create the soap’s texture and cleansing power.
• Sodium Tallowate & Sodium Cocoate – Common soap ingredients that provide the foaming and cleansing effect.
• BHT & Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) – These antioxidants help maintain skin health.
• Tetrasodium Etidronate & Trisodium HEDTA – Preservatives that improve the product’s longevity.

What stands out is that the bar is fragrance-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. However, it does contain some synthetic stabilizers, which might not appeal to those who prefer fully natural products.

Scent

If you’re sensitive to strong scents in skincare products, you’ll be happy to know that this facial bar is completely fragrance-free. It has no noticeable scent, which is great for people who experience irritation from perfumed products. While some might prefer a fresh or floral fragrance, I personally like the neutral, no-nonsense formula.

Effectiveness

Effectiveness is where the Neutrogena Original Facial Cleansing Bar truly shines. Here’s what I noticed after using it:

• Creates a rich, creamy lather quickly.
• Effectively removes dirt, oil, and light makeup without excessive scrubbing.
• Rinses clean without leaving residue, which is a huge plus.
• Does not strip natural moisture, though some with dry skin might feel a slight tightness afterward.
• Non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.

For those with oily or combination skin, this bar delivers a “squeaky clean” feeling that helps control excess oil without over-drying. However, if you have very dry skin, you may want to follow up with a good moisturizer.

It’s worth mentioning that while the bar is not marketed as a makeup remover, it does a decent job removing light makeup. However, if you wear heavy or waterproof makeup, you might still need a dedicated makeup remover before cleansing.

Many users, including myself, notice an improvement in skin clarity over time, with reduced breakouts and a smoother texture. However, like any skincare product, individual reactions may vary, so a patch test is always recommended before full use.

Size and Lifespan

The Neutrogena Facial Cleansing Bar comes in a 3.5 oz (99 g) size, which is a standard size for facial bars. One thing I appreciate is that it is also available in multipacks, making it a cost-effective option for those who plan to use it long-term.

The bar itself is quite hard and durable, which means it lasts a long time compared to softer soaps that dissolve quickly. As long as you store it in a dry place, it holds its shape well and doesn’t break apart easily. The usage rate depends on how frequently you use it, but in my experience, one bar lasts me several weeks with daily use.

Brand Reputation

Neutrogena is a trusted brand in the skincare industry and is owned by Johnson & Johnson, a company known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Neutrogena has a long-standing reputation for creating gentle and effective skincare products.

The brand also prioritizes safety and transparency, listing ingredients clearly on its packaging. It is also cruelty-free, meaning they do not test their products on animals.

Price and Value

One of the biggest selling points of this bar is its affordable price. It typically costs around $3 per bar, which is a great deal considering its longevity. Compared to higher-end facial cleansers, this bar offers similar cleansing power at a fraction of the cost.

Moreover, it is frequently available on sale or in multipacks, which makes it even more budget-friendly. Given its effectiveness and durability, I think this product provides excellent value for money.

Availability

The Neutrogena Original Facial Cleansing Bar is widely available in most drugstores, supermarkets, and major online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. It’s easy to find both in-store and online, and bulk purchasing options are often available.

Overall Rating

After testing the Neutrogena Original Facial Cleansing Bar, I can confidently say it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective facial cleanser. It’s particularly great for oily and combination skin, but those with dry skin may want to follow up with a moisturizer.

Final Rating: 4.5/5

If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills facial cleanser that does the job well, this is definitely worth trying!