Acne Ceramides Cleanser
Acne Ceramides Cleanser
Product Description
The Raw Acne Ceramides Cleanser is a 2% salicylic acid (BHA) foaming gel cleanser reinforced with five skin-identical ceramides, cholesterol, 1% niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5. Developed by a Malaysian board-certified pharmacist, it deeply clears pores, dead skin and excess oil while protecting the skin barrier β so acne-prone skin gets meaningful exfoliation without the tight, stripped feeling most acne washes leave behind.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Deep Pore Cleansing
Oil-soluble 2% salicylic acid slips into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin and impurities that trigger blackheads and breakouts.
Barrier-First Exfoliation
Five ceramides plus cholesterol replace the lipids most acne washes strip away, so you exfoliate without compromising the skin barrier.
Soothing Botanicals
Centella, licorice root, green tea and chamomile calm redness and irritation while niacinamide helps regulate oil.
pH-Balanced & Daily-Friendly
A skin-friendly pH and fragrance-free base keep it gentle enough for once or twice daily use on most skin types.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA). Topical BHA in a rinse-off is low-risk, but guidance varies β check with your OB/GYN or doctor first.
Contains glyceryl stearate, a C18 ester that can theoretically feed Malassezia. Rinse-off contact time keeps real-world risk low.
Formulated to be non-pore-clogging; key ingredients carry low comedogenic ratings (mostly 0β1).
No added synthetic fragrance, making it a sensible pick for those who react to scented cleansers.
Preserved with methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) and cocamide DEA β patch test if your skin is reactive.
Since it already exfoliates, avoid stacking it with strong leave-on AHA/BHA or retinoids in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ͺ Salicylic Acid 2% Proven
The star active and a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). Because it's oil-soluble, it penetrates into pores to clear sebum and dead skin, control oil and reduce inflammation β making it especially effective for blackheads and acne-prone skin.
- Regulatory: The US FDA recognises 0.5β2% salicylic acid as an over-the-counter acne treatment.
- Bonus: Structurally related to aspirin, so it also has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties.
π Niacinamide 1% Proven
Vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil, helps fade dark spots and post-acne marks, and calms redness β well tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD in skin cells, supporting repair, collagen and barrier function.
- Synergy: Pairs well with salicylic acid to offset potential irritation.
𧱠5-Ceramide Complex + Cholesterol Proven
Ceramides EOP, NS, NP, AS and AP plus cholesterol mirror the skin's own barrier lipids. This multi-ceramide blend is the formula's signature β rare in an acne cleanser β and offsets the drying effect of exfoliation.
- Clinical: A ceramide regimen (EOP, NP, AP) significantly improved eczema, psoriasis and dry-skin symptoms within 4 weeks in one study.
- Best practice: Ceramides work best alongside cholesterol and fatty acids β exactly the trio used here.
π§ Hyaluronic Acid + Panthenol (B5) Promising
A humectant duo that binds water to keep skin plump and comfortable, while pro-vitamin B5 soothes and supports wound healing β a thoughtful counterbalance to an exfoliating cleanser.
- Hydration: HA can hold many times its weight in water for a softer, less tight after-feel.
- Soothing: Panthenol helps calm and repair, reducing the chance of post-cleanse irritation.
πΏ Soothing Botanical Blend Promising
Centella asiatica, licorice root, green tea, chamomile, Japanese knotweed and rosemary deliver antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support to calm acne-related redness.
- Green tea: A 2% green tea preparation showed benefit for mild-to-moderate acne in a 2009 study.
- Licorice: Glabridin offers antioxidant, soothing and brightening activity for post-acne marks.
38 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamide DEA, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Propylene Glycol, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Salicylic Acid (2%), Glycerin, Niacinamide (1%), Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NS, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Hydrocotyle Asiatica (Centella Asiatica) Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis (Chinese Skullcap) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Hyaluronic Acid, Cholesterol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Panthenol, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyquaternium-7, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, 2,3-Butanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your main cleanser (or second step in a double cleanse). Because it already contains BHA, you usually won't need a separate exfoliating step in the same routine. Always finish daytime use with SPF.
π How to Use
Wet your face
Splash with lukewarm water. If wearing makeup or sunscreen, oil-cleanse first.
Lather a small amount
Dispense a pea-to-coin-sized amount, work into a foam between damp palms.
Massage gently
Massage over the face for 20β30 seconds, focusing on oily or congested zones. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse & follow up
Rinse thoroughly, pat dry, then follow with hydrating and barrier-supporting steps. Use 1β2x daily.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin
- You get blackheads, congestion or "tiny bumps"
- You want a BHA wash that won't strip the barrier
- You like fragrance-free, ceramide-rich formulas
- You want effective acne care on a small budget
β Consider alternatives if:
- You specifically avoid sulfates (contains SLES)
- You react to isothiazolinone (MCI/MI) preservatives
- You have very dry or compromised, peeling skin
- You're strictly fungal-acne (Malassezia) avoidant
- You already use multiple strong leave-on actives
π― Skin Type Compatibility
BHA controls oil and clears pores; foaming base leaves skin feeling clean without residue.
Targets blackheads and breakouts while ceramides and niacinamide keep the barrier supported.
Decongests the oily T-zone without over-drying drier areas thanks to its lipid blend.
Fragrance-free and soothing botanicals help, but MCI/MI and cocamide DEA warrant a patch test.
Ceramides cushion the formula, but a salicylic + sulfate wash can feel drying β limit to once daily.
π Results Timeline
Clean, Comfortable Skin
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed and soft rather than squeaky-tight, thanks to the ceramide and humectant base.
Most users notice immediatelyPossible Purging Phase
Some acne-prone users report a short "purge" as BHA accelerates cell turnover, followed by smoother skin.
Reported by some usersFewer Bumps, Less Oil
Reduced blackheads and "tiny bumps," smoother texture and a more balanced, less greasy feel.
Commonly reportedClearer, More Even Tone
With consistent use, fewer new breakouts and gradual fading of post-acne marks as niacinamide and licorice work over time.
With continued useβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exfoliates and supports the barrier in one rinse-off step
- Rare 5-ceramide + cholesterol blend for an acne wash
- Fragrance-free, Halal, cruelty-free and vegan
- Excellent value (RM33 / approx. $7 for 150ml)
- pH-balanced and gentle enough for daily use
β Criticized
- Contains SLES (sulfate) and cocamide DEA
- Preserved with MCI/MI β possible sensitizer for reactive skin
- BHA contact time is limited in a wash-off format
- Some users report short-term purging
- Limited availability outside Malaysia
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The closest structural twin: salicylic acid + 3 ceramides + niacinamide, fragrance-free. Larger size and more widely available, but pricier and slightly more basic on botanicals.
A K-beauty BHA + tea tree foaming cleanser for acne-prone skin. Lacks the multi-ceramide barrier complex, so less focus on barrier support.
An ultra-affordable centella + salicylic acid gel cleanser. Great price and similar acne targeting, but fewer barrier lipids and a simpler formula.
A low-pH ceramide cleanser with BHA and niacinamide; SkinSort lists 16 shared ingredients. More calming-focused, milder exfoliation.
π Comparison with Competitors
The Raw Acne Ceramides Cleanser (Featured)
RM33 (~$7)CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
~$15.99COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
~$12.00Some By Mi AHAΒ·BHAΒ·PHA 30 Days Cleanser
~$13.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed.
Squeeze tube (150ml)
At 150ml it's just over many carry-on liquid limits β decant for hand luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
It contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA). In a rinse-off cleanser, salicylic acid contact time is short and systemic absorption is low, which is why many consider low-percentage topical BHA acceptable. However, guidance varies and salicylic acid is commonly flagged for caution during pregnancy, so we recommend checking with your OB/GYN or doctor before use. This is general information, not medical advice.
Mostly, with one caveat. The formula contains glyceryl stearate, a C18 fatty-acid ester that can theoretically be metabolised by Malassezia yeast. Because this is a wash-off cleanser with very limited contact time, real-world risk is low β but if you are strictly fungal-acne avoidant, you may prefer a 100% ester- and fatty-acid-free option.
Yes, with care. As a cleanser it's a rinse-off step, so it's generally compatible with most routines. Since it already delivers salicylic acid (BHA), avoid pairing it with strong leave-on AHA/BHA exfoliants in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. It works well before niacinamide, hyaluronic acid or barrier moisturisers. With retinol or vitamin C, introduce gradually and monitor for irritation.
It's best suited to oily, combination and acne-prone skin that struggles with blackheads, congestion or "tiny bumps." The ceramide and niacinamide content also makes it gentler than most acne washes, so sensitive or slightly dry skin can often use it once daily. Very dry or compromised skin may find a daily BHA + sulfate wash too much.
Skin usually feels cleaner and softer from the first wash. Some users experience a short purging phase in weeks 1β2, with smoother texture, fewer bumps and less oil typically reported around weeks 2β4. Clearer skin and fading of post-acne marks build with consistent use over roughly 6β8 weeks. Results vary by individual.
It's your cleansing step β the first step in the morning, or the second step at night after an oil cleanser if you wear makeup or sunscreen. After rinsing, follow with toner (optional), treatments/serums, moisturiser and, in the daytime, sunscreen. Because it already exfoliates, you generally won't need a separate scrub.
No β it's marketed as non-comedogenic and its key ingredients carry low comedogenic ratings (mostly 0β1), giving an overall rating of about 1/5. As a salicylic acid cleanser it's actually designed to help unclog pores rather than block them.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO is typical for this type of cleanser). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed between uses to preserve the formula.
Verdict: The Raw Acne Ceramides Cleanser is a smart, value-driven take on the acne wash β pairing FDA-recognised 2% salicylic acid with a genuinely barrier-friendly mix of five ceramides, cholesterol, niacinamide and soothing botanicals, all fragrance-free, Halal and pH-balanced for around RM33 (~$7). It's an easy recommendation for oily, combination and acne-prone skin that wants exfoliation without the stripped feeling. The trade-offs are the SLES/cocamide DEA surfactant base and MCI/MI preservatives, which sulfate- or fragrance-sensitive users and the strictly fungal-acne-conscious should weigh β and formal review volume is still growing since it's a newer, mainly Malaysia-based release. For most acne-prone shoppers, it punches well above its price.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 7 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cocamide DEA
Emulsifying, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|