2% Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Face Wash
2% Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-formulated gel face wash combining 2% Salicylic Acid and 2% Niacinamide to fight active acne, fade acne marks, unclog pores, and control excess oil. Features encapsulated Salicylic Acid for deeper penetration and Aquaxyl™ technology to prevent post-wash dryness.
Encapsulated Salicylic Acid
Penetrates deeper into pores for enhanced acne-fighting action and sustained release.
Texture & feel
SENSORYEncapsulated Salicylic Acid
Penetrates deeper into pores for enhanced acne-fighting action and sustained release.
Aquaxyl™ Anti-Dehydration
Reinforces skin's lipid barrier to prevent post-wash dryness and tightness.
Cica + Allantoin Soothing
Calms irritated, acne-prone skin and reduces redness and inflammation.
Dual Action Formula
Niacinamide fades acne marks while Salicylic Acid prevents new breakouts.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% Salicylic Acid. ACOG considers topical salicylic acid at 2% or less as generally safe, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Topical salicylic acid at 2% concentration is unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk. Avoid application near breast area.
Contains Polysorbate 80, Safflower Oil, and Olive Oil which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not suitable for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
Rated 1/5 on comedogenic scale. Formulated to not clog pores despite containing minimal oils at low concentrations.
Can be used with retinol products, but use them at different times (BHA in AM, retinol in PM) to avoid irritation.
Salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen after morning use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within. Encapsulated form in this product allows for deeper penetration and sustained release for enhanced efficacy.
- FDA-Recognized: 0.5-2% concentration approved as OTC acne treatment
- Oil-Soluble: Penetrates through sebum to clear blackheads and whiteheads
- Anti-Inflammatory: Related to aspirin, helps calm redness and swelling
Niacinamide 2%Proven
Vitamin B3 derivative that regulates sebum production, fades post-acne marks, and strengthens the skin barrier. Works synergistically with salicylic acid to prevent and treat acne.
- Sebum Regulation: Clinical studies show reduced oil production within 4 weeks
- Hyperpigmentation: Inhibits melanin transfer to fade dark spots
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide production for healthier skin
Aquaxyl™ Complex PatentedProven
A patented complex of Xylitol, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, and Glucose that reinforces skin's natural moisture barrier and prevents trans-epidermal water loss after cleansing.
- Clinical Study: Performed as well as urea in hydration tests
- Lipid Synthesis: Stimulates production of barrier-essential lipids and proteins
- Anti-Dehydration: Prevents post-wash tightness common with BHA cleansers
Cica Extract + Allantoin SupportingProven
Centella Asiatica (Cica) combined with Allantoin provides anti-inflammatory and healing benefits, calming irritation from active acne and promoting faster skin recovery.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and swelling from inflamed acne
- Wound Healing: Accelerates repair of damaged skin tissue
- Soothing: Allantoin provides immediate comfort to irritated skin
D-Panthenol SupportingProven
Provitamin B5 that deeply hydrates and helps repair the skin barrier. Acts as a humectant to draw moisture into skin while promoting healing.
- Humectant: Binds and holds water molecules in the skin
- Barrier Repair: Supports skin's natural healing processes
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce irritation from active ingredients
29 ingredients
Aqua, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Polyacrylate-33, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid (<2% W/W), Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xylitol, Glucose, Anhydroxylitol, Phoenix Dactylifera (Date Palm) Extract, Glyceryl Glucoside, Betaine, Benzophenone-4, Sodium Benzoate, Centella Asiatica Extract, D-Panthenol, Allantoin, Xylitylglucoside, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Polysorbate 80
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in both AM & PM routines. For AM, always follow with sunscreen as final step. Can be used twice daily for oily skin.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and irritate skin.
Apply Face Wash
Squeeze a coin-sized amount onto wet palms. The gel formula foams up nicely - a little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Apply to face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on oily areas like T-zone, but avoid harsh scrubbing.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel - don't rub. Follow with your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with acne, blackheads, or whiteheads
- You want to fade post-acne dark marks
- Your pores look enlarged or congested
- You need oil control throughout the day
- You want a non-drying acne cleanser
- You're looking for affordable derma skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You're pregnant (consult doctor first)
- Your skin is extremely sensitive or reactive
- You're already using multiple exfoliating acids
- You have eczema or rosacea in active flare
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Controls excess sebum, unclogs pores, and leaves skin matte without over-drying thanks to Aquaxyl™.
Balances oily T-zone while hydrating properties protect drier cheeks. Ideal for combo skin concerns.
Specifically formulated for acne. Dual-action formula treats existing breakouts and prevents new ones.
Works well for occasional breakouts and maintaining clear pores. May use once daily instead of twice.
Aquaxyl™ helps prevent dryness, but dry skin types should use once daily and follow with rich moisturizer.
Cica and Allantoin provide soothing benefits, but patch test first. Start with every other day use.
Results timeline
WEEK 6-12Initial Purging Phase
Some users may experience temporary increase in breakouts as BHA brings congestion to the surface. Skin may feel slightly tighter initially. This is normal and temporary.
30% may experience purgingReduced Oiliness & Clearer Pores
Noticeable reduction in excess oil and shine. Pores appear cleaner and less congested. Active breakouts begin to heal faster.
85% noticed less oilinessFewer New Breakouts
Significant reduction in new acne formation. Blackheads and whiteheads visibly reduced. Skin texture becomes smoother.
90% reported fewer breakoutsFaded Acne Marks & Clear Skin
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation begins to fade. Overall skin tone becomes more even. Maintained clear skin with continued use.
90% saw improvement in acne marksRatings by platform
31K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective at clearing acne and preventing breakouts
- Doesn't dry out skin like other BHA cleansers
- Fades acne marks and dark spots over time
- Controls excess oil and shine throughout the day
- Affordable compared to international brands
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Foams well - small amount goes a long way
- Dermatologically tested and backed by brand
Criticized
- May cause initial purging in first 2 weeks
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- 80ml bottle runs out quickly with daily use
- Some find it slightly drying for normal/dry skin
- Contains oils that may concern some users
- Results take 4-6 weeks to become visible
- Price has increased over time
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar 2% salicylic acid concentration with added LHA for multi-level exfoliation. Sulfate-free and fragrance-free. Slightly more runny texture but equally effective for acne.
Lower 1% salicylic acid with added glycolic acid and fruit AHAs. Better for sensitive skin but may be less effective for stubborn acne. Vegan and cruelty-free.
Contains 2% salicylic acid with tea tree oil. Pharmaceutical-grade formula but lacks the hydrating Aquaxyl™ technology. May be more drying.
Same 2% salicylic acid with green tea and cica. More soothing formula but doesn't have niacinamide for fading marks. Good for sensitive acne-prone skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEThe Derma Co 2% Sali-Cinamide
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Best used within 6 months for optimal efficacy of active ingredients.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine - no refrigeration needed.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Easy to dispense and hygienic. Opaque packaging protects salicylic acid from light degradation.
Yes, 80ml is under 100ml TSA/airline carry-on limit. Compact size fits easily in toiletry bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQPregnancy: Use with caution. This face wash contains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper limit of what ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) considers safe during pregnancy. Topical application of 2% or less salicylic acid has been reported safe, but higher doses or oral forms are not recommended. Always consult your healthcare provider before using during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding: Generally considered safe. Topical salicylic acid at 2% concentration is unlikely to be absorbed significantly into breastmilk. However, avoid applying near breast area and wash hands thoroughly after use.
No, this face wash is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Polysorbate 80 (an emulsifier), Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, and Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil. These ingredients can potentially worsen pityrosporum folliculitis. If you have fungal acne, look for cleansers that are specifically formulated without esters, fatty acids, and polysorbates.
With Retinol: Yes, but use at different times. Use the face wash in AM and retinol products in PM to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.
With Vitamin C: Yes, safe to use together. Vitamin C serums can be applied after cleansing in your AM routine.
With AHA/BHA serums: Use with caution. Since this face wash already contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), using additional exfoliating acids may cause irritation. If you want to use AHA/BHA leave-on products, consider using the face wash only once daily or alternating days.
This face wash isbest suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 2% salicylic acid effectively controls excess sebum and unclogs pores, while the Aquaxyl™ technology prevents the drying that typically comes with BHA cleansers. Normal skin can also benefit from occasional use. Those with dry or very sensitive skin should use with caution - start with once daily use and ensure adequate moisturization afterward.
Week 1-2: You may experience initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts) as BHA brings congestion to the surface. This is normal.
Week 2-4: Noticeable reduction in oiliness and cleaner pores. Active breakouts begin healing faster.
Week 4-6: Significant reduction in new acne formation. Skin texture improves.
Week 6-12: Post-acne marks begin to fade. Best results are seen with consistent use over 2-3 months. According to brand claims, 90% of users reported improvement in acne and acne marks with regular use.
This face wash should be used asStep 1 (Cleanser) in both your AM and PM skincare routines.
Morning: Face Wash → Toner (optional) → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (essential!)
Evening: Face Wash → Toner (optional) → Serum/Treatment → Moisturizer
If you wear makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing - use an oil cleanser first, then follow with this face wash as your second cleanser.
Low comedogenic rating: 1/5. Despite containing small amounts of safflower and olive oils, this face wash is formulated to not clog pores. The primary purpose of the formula is to actually UNCLOG pores through salicylic acid's exfoliating action. The oils are present in very low concentrations and the product is washed off rather than left on skin. Users with acne-prone skin report it helps clear rather than cause congestion.
The face wash has aPAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. However, for best efficacy of the active ingredients (salicylic acid and niacinamide), it's recommended to use within 6 months of opening. The 80ml tube typically lasts 4-6 weeks with twice daily use, and 8-12 weeks with once daily use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product stability.
Verdict: The Derma Co 2% Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Face Wash delivers excellent value for oily and acne-prone skin types in India. The combination of 2% encapsulated salicylic acid with 2% niacinamide offers effective dual-action against active breakouts and post-acne marks. The Aquaxyl™ technology genuinely prevents the dryness common with BHA cleansers. However, it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to problematic ingredients. At its price point, it competes well with more expensive international alternatives while being backed by dermatological testing. A solid choice for those battling stubborn acne on a budget.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyacrylate-33
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Hydrotrope, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|