Aclean Gel
Aclean Gel
Product Description
Product overview
Dpharm – Dong-A Pharmaceutical Aclean Gel is a Korean OTC acne treatment gel formulated with 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and natural Tea Tree Oil to target whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory pimples. The colorless, fast-absorbing translucent gel from one of South Korea's oldest and most trusted pharmaceutical companies penetrates deep into pores, dissolves sebum, and exfoliates dead skin cells without leaving a sticky residue.
Targets Comedonal Acne
2% Salicylic Acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve oil and clear blackheads and whiteheads at the root.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTargets Comedonal Acne
2% Salicylic Acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve oil and clear blackheads and whiteheads at the root.
Natural Tea Tree Oil
Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory Melaleuca leaf oil calms redness and helps fight acne-causing bacteria.
Fast-Absorbing Gel
Lightweight, non-greasy translucent formula sinks in within seconds and leaves no sticky residue.
Korean OTC Pharma-Grade
Manufactured by Dong-A Pharm, one of South Korea's oldest and most respected pharmaceutical companies (est. 1932).
Prevents Future Breakouts
Regular use regulates sebum production and keeps pores clear, reducing the frequency of new acne flare-ups.
Compact & Travel-Friendly
The 20 g tube is TSA-compliant, easy to apply on spots, and convenient for purse, gym bag, or travel.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from fatty acids, esters, polysorbates and most ferments that feed Malassezia yeast.
Lightweight gel base with no comedogenic oils — safe for clogged pores and acne-prone skin.
2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) is generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your OB/GYN.
Do not layer with retinoids, AHAs, benzoyl peroxide or vitamin C in the same routine — risk of irritation.
Ethanol may be drying for very dry or compromised barriers. Start with once-daily application.
BHA may increase sun sensitivity. Always pair with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2% (20 mg/g)Proven
The hero active. A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate inside pores, dissolve sebum, and exfoliate dead skin cells from within. FDA-recognized as an OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2%.
- FDA: 0.5–2% Salicylic Acid is approved as an over-the-counter topical acne treatment.
- Mechanism: Lipophilic structure lets it enter sebum-filled pores where AHAs cannot reach.
- Bonus: Aspirin-like structure gives it mild anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil ~0.5–1%Proven
Australian tea tree essential oil with naturally occurring terpinen-4-ol (the main active compound). Adds antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory action to support the salicylic acid.
- Clinical research: 5% tea tree oil gel has shown comparable efficacy to 5% benzoyl peroxide for mild-to-moderate acne, with fewer side effects.
- Activity: Effective against Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) bacteria.
- Synergy: Pairs well with BHA — exfoliation + antimicrobial action in one formula.
Alcohol Denat. (Ethanol) ~10–20%Promising
Acts as a solvent, penetration enhancer, and astringent. Helps the formula dry quickly to a matte finish and boosts absorption of salicylic acid into the skin.
- Function: Dissolves salicylic acid (which is poorly water-soluble) and carries it into pores.
- Sensory: Creates the cosmetically elegant, fast-drying gel feel users love.
Carbomer + Triethanolamine <1% eachProven
The gelling system. Carbomer is a polymer of acrylic acid neutralized by Triethanolamine (TEA) to form the clear, non-tacky gel texture that defines this product.
- Carbomer: Standard gel-thickener used in most pharmaceutical and cosmetic gels.
- Triethanolamine: pH adjuster that ensures the salicylic acid is delivered at the optimal pH (3.0–4.0) for activity.
Propylene Glycol + PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil supportivePromising
The hydration and solubility duo. Propylene Glycol is a humectant that draws water into the skin, while PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil acts as a solubilizer for the tea tree oil.
- Propylene Glycol: Pulls moisture into the skin to offset the drying potential of alcohol and BHA.
- PEG-40: Disperses the lipophilic tea tree oil evenly through the gel matrix.
Methylparaben (Methyl Paraoxybenzoate) ~0.1%Proven
A long-trusted preservative used at very low concentrations to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life. Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide including the EU.
- Concentration: Limited to 0.4% in the EU — Aclean Gel uses approximately 0.1% (1 mg/g).
- Note: Despite parabens-free trends, methylparaben has the strongest safety record of all preservatives.
10 ingredients
Salicylic Acid 2% (20 mg/g), Methylparaben, Alcohol Denat. (Ethanol), Water (Purified), Carbomer (Carbomer Interpolymer), Triethanolamine (Trolamine), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Polyethylene Glycol 200, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Propylene Glycol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as a targeted spot treatment after cleansing/toning, before heavier hydrating products. Always finish with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Pat Dry
Wash the affected area with a gentle cleanser and pat completely dry before application.
Start Slow (Once Daily)
Begin with one application per day — preferably at night — to let your skin build tolerance.
Spot Apply a Small Amount
Dab a rice-grain-sized amount directly onto whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples. Avoid the eye and lip area.
Let It Absorb (~30 sec)
Wait until the gel fully dries down to a matte finish before layering hydrating serum or moisturizer on top.
Build Up Gradually
If well tolerated, increase to twice daily (AM & PM). If dryness or peeling occurs, reduce to every other day.
Always Wear SPF
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily — exfoliating actives can increase sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with whiteheads, blackheads, or comedonal acne
- You have oily or combination skin with frequent breakouts
- You have body acne (back, chest, shoulders) you want to spot-treat
- You prefer a fast-absorbing, no-residue gel over creams
- You want a Korean OTC pharma-grade product instead of a luxury cosmetic
- You're looking for an affordable spot treatment under $30
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin (alcohol may aggravate)
- You already use retinoids or other strong acids daily
- You have a known allergy to salicylates (aspirin) or tea tree oil
- You have severe cystic or hormonal acne (may need prescription)
- You're seeking a fragrance-free, alcohol-free gentle formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel controls excess sebum, dries to a matte finish, and unclogs pores without adding shine.
Spot-apply only on T-zone or breakouts. Pair with a hydrating moisturizer for drier cheek areas.
Designed precisely for this skin type — fungal-acne safe, non-comedogenic, BHA + tea tree oil combo.
Effective for occasional breakouts but may be more potent than needed for everyday use — apply only as a spot treatment.
The alcohol and BHA can worsen dryness. Use only on active spots, every other day, and follow with rich moisturizer.
Patch test required. Tea tree oil and ethanol may trigger reactions. Start with twice-weekly application only.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSPimple Size Reduction
Spot-treated whiteheads visibly shrink overnight. Active pimples appear less inflamed and less red.
68% noticedSmoother Skin Texture
Bumpy texture from clogged pores starts to flatten. Blackheads loosen and become easier to remove.
74% noticedFewer New Breakouts
Frequency of new whiteheads and blackheads drops noticeably. Sebum production feels more regulated.
81% noticedClearer, More Even Complexion
Visibly clearer skin overall. Pores look smaller, post-acne marks begin to fade with continued use + SPF.
76% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visibly dissolves whiteheads and blackheads, sometimes overnight
- Pharma-grade 2% Salicylic Acid — clinically validated concentration
- Tea tree oil adds natural antibacterial action without harshness
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel that disappears under makeup
- Affordable price point for a pharmacy-grade Korean active
- Works on both face and body acne (back, chest, shoulders)
- Made by a 90+ year old trusted Korean pharmaceutical company
Criticized
- Contains denatured alcohol — may dry out sensitive or dry skin
- Small 20g tube can be used up quickly
- Tea tree scent and methylparaben preservative aren't for everyone
- Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Can sting on broken or freshly cleansed skin
- Limited international availability — usually imported
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 2% salicylic acid concentration in a water-based, alcohol-free liquid. No tea tree oil, but gentler on dry/sensitive skin and significantly cheaper per ml.
4% Betaine Salicylate (≈2% salicylic acid equivalent) plus willow bark and niacinamide. K-beauty alternative with a more soothing, leave-on toner-style approach.
Uses lower-strength acids (BHA + AHA + PHA blend) plus tea tree water. Better for full-face daily use; less potent for stubborn comedonal acne spots.
2% salicylic acid in a green-tea-infused base, no tea tree oil. More expensive but very gentle and well-buffered — easier for full-face daily use.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAclean Gel — Dong-A Pharm
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on tube)
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C / 77°F. Keep tightly closed and away from direct sunlight.
20 g sealed aluminum/plastic squeeze tube with screw cap — hygienic and travel-safe.
Yes — 20 g size is well under 100 ml/100 g TSA carry-on liquid limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQIt is generallynot recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Topical 2% Salicylic Acid is usually considered low-risk in small spot-treatment doses, but most OB/GYNs and dermatologists advise avoiding leave-on BHA products during these periods, especially over larger areas. The formula also contains tea tree essential oil and denatured alcohol, both of which carry additional cautions in pregnancy. Always consult your doctor before continuing use.
Yes — it is considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. The formula does not contain fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or ferments that typically feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, salicylic acid and tea tree oil are both commonly used in fungal-acne-friendly routines because of their antimicrobial action. PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is also generally regarded as fungal-acne safe.
Combining strong actives in the same routine increases the risk of irritation, dryness, and a damaged skin barrier. We recommendnot layering Aclean Gel with retinol, benzoyl peroxide, AHAs, or pure L-ascorbic acid vitamin C in the same step. Instead, alternate by time of day (e.g., vitamin C in the morning, Aclean Gel at night) or by night (e.g., retinol Mondays/Thursdays, Aclean Gel other nights). Always introduce one active at a time.
Aclean Gel performs best onoily, combination, and acne-prone skin with frequent whiteheads, blackheads, or comedonal breakouts. The lightweight gel texture, fast-absorbing finish, and pore-clearing 2% BHA suit oilier complexions especially well. Dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone users can still use it, but only as an occasional spot treatment with a hydrating moisturizer on top.
Most users seevisible improvement on individual whiteheads within 24–48 hours of spot application. Smoother overall texture and fewer blackheads typically appear after 1–2 weeks of consistent use. For long-term clearer skin and reduced breakout frequency, expect noticeable change at the 4–8 week mark, in line with one full skin cell turnover cycle.
Apply Aclean Gelafter cleansing and toning, but before serums and moisturizer. It works best as a targeted spot treatment on visible whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples — not as a full-face product. Let it fully absorb (about 30 seconds) before layering hydrating products on top. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
No — Aclean Gel is non-comedogenic with an estimated comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. Its primary purpose is the opposite: to unclog pores. The formula contains no comedogenic oils, butters, or waxes, and the 2% salicylic acid actively dissolves the buildup that causes blackheads and whiteheads. It is generally a safe choice for clogged-pore-prone skin.
Aclean Gel has aPeriod After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within 12 months for full potency and safety. Store the tube tightly closed in a cool, dry place below 25°C / 77°F, away from direct sunlight and humidity. The salicylic acid concentration is stable in the airtight tube format, but may slowly degrade with prolonged heat or light exposure.
Verdict: Aclean Gel by Dong-A Pharmaceutical is one of the best-kept secrets of Korean OTC pharmacy skincare. Its 2% salicylic acid + tea tree oil combo is genuinely effective for whiteheads, blackheads, and mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne, with a pleasant, fast-drying gel texture that disappears under makeup. Backed by a 90+ year old pharmaceutical heritage, it offers clinical-grade results at an affordable price. The only real drawbacks are the alcohol content (drying for sensitive/dry skin) and the small 20 g tube — but for targeted spot treatment, this is exactly what you want.Highly recommended for oily and acne-prone skin types.
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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 5 |
Triethanolamine
Masking, Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
|
|
| 0 |
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
Perfuming, Antioxidant
|
Hydrating
|