Acne Clearing Skin Wash
Acne Clearing Skin Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A professional-grade foaming cleanser that combines encapsulated 0.5% Salicylic Acid with soothing botanicals to clear breakouts and reduce visible signs of aging, leaving skin clean, balanced, and prepped for treatment products.
Encapsulated Salicylic Acid
0.5% BHA penetrates pores to dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells, helping prevent breakouts at the source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYEncapsulated Salicylic Acid
0.5% BHA penetrates pores to dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells, helping prevent breakouts at the source.
Tea Tree & Eucalyptus
Natural antibacterial botanicals help eliminate acne-causing bacteria while soothing irritated skin.
Cooling Menthol & Camphor
Provides an invigorating cooling sensation that helps calm inflammation and reduce redness.
Phytic Acid Brightening
Rice-derived antioxidant helps brighten skin tone and smooth away dullness for a radiant complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% salicylic acid. While low-concentration topical SA in wash-off products is generally considered safe by ACOG, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains Polysorbate 80 and Shea Butter which may feed malassezia. However, as a wash-off product, contact time is minimal. Patch test recommended.
Sulfate-free formula with soothing botanicals like chamomile and licorice. Start with once daily use and increase as tolerated.
Wash-off formula with low comedogenic rating (1/5). Designed specifically for acne-prone skin and won't clog pores.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil to exfoliate inside pores, dissolving the buildup that causes blackheads, whiteheads, and breakouts.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate sebum and exfoliate within pores
- FDA Status: Approved OTC acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentration
- Clinical Evidence: Well-documented efficacy for comedonal and inflammatory acne
Tea Tree Oil Low %Proven
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil provides natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, targeting acne-causing bacteria P. acnes.
- Research: Studies show 5% TTO comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne with fewer side effects
- Benefit: Antimicrobial, antifungal, and soothing properties
- Source: Australian native plant with 100+ years of medicinal use
Phytic Acid Low %Promising
Rice-derived antioxidant that provides gentle exfoliation while helping to brighten skin and even out tone.
- Function: Chelates minerals and provides antioxidant protection
- Benefit: Helps reduce hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks
- Gentleness: Milder than other AHAs, suitable for sensitive skin
Menthol & Camphor Low %Supporting
Cooling agents that provide an invigorating sensation while helping to calm inflammation and soothe irritated skin.
- Sensation: Activates cold receptors for refreshing cooling effect
- Benefit: Helps reduce inflammation and redness
- Note: May tingle upon application - this is normal
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate Low %Proven
Licorice root derivative known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
- Benefit: Calms redness, soothes irritation, and brightens skin
- Research: Well-documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
- Synergy: Balances potential irritation from active ingredients
57 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Hydroxypropyl Bis-Hydroxyethyldimonium Chloride, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Butylene Glycol, Sodium PCA, Salicylic Acid, Phytic Acid, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Allium Sativum (Garlic) Bulb Extract, Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract, Passiflora Incarnata Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Camphor, Menthol, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Polysorbate 80, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Melissa Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Angelica Archangelica Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Echinacea Angustifolia Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin, Silica, Palmitic Acid, Zinc PCA, Kaolin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Aminomethyl Propanol, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl PCA, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and/or evening as Step 1. For double cleansing, use Dermalogica PreCleanse first to remove makeup and sunscreen.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto face and neck to dampen skin. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils.
Lather in Hands
Work a pea-sized amount into a lather in wet hands. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Massage onto Skin
Apply to face and neck using circular motions. Concentrate on areas of congestion and oiliness. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with warm water, ensuring all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You struggle with adult acne, hormonal breakouts, or "backne"
- You want to address both acne and early signs of aging
- You have blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You prefer professional-grade skincare with clean ingredients
- You want a cooling, refreshing cleansing experience
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're currently using prescription retinoids or strong exfoliants
- You have extremely sensitive skin that reacts to menthol
- You're on a tight budget (premium price point)
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Controls excess sebum, unclogs pores, and leaves skin feeling clean without over-stripping.
Works well for T-zone oiliness while gentle surfactants won't over-dry cheeks.
Effective for occasional breakouts. May use every other day if skin feels balanced.
Contains soothing botanicals, but menthol may cause tingling. Patch test first and introduce gradually.
May be too drying for daily use. Consider alternating with a hydrating cleanser and follow with rich moisturizer.
Specifically formulated for breakout-prone skin. Salicylic acid and antibacterial botanicals target acne at the source.
Results timeline
WEEKS 6-8Initial Cleansing & Possible Purging
Skin feels cleaner and refreshed immediately after use. Some users may experience initial purging as clogged pores are cleared. Cooling sensation provides immediate soothing effect.
100% noticed cleaner feelingReduced Oiliness & Smoother Texture
Oil production begins to normalize. Skin texture feels smoother as salicylic acid exfoliates. Existing breakouts start to heal faster.
85% noticed reduced oilinessVisible Clearing & Brighter Skin
Noticeable reduction in active breakouts. Pores appear smaller and less congested. Skin looks brighter and more even-toned.
100% experienced smoother, softer skin*Long-Term Clarity
Consistent use shows significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Fewer new breakouts form. Post-acne marks begin to fade with continued use.
90% reported clearer skinRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively clears breakouts and prevents new ones
- Pleasant cooling sensation from menthol
- Doesn't strip or over-dry skin
- Professional-grade formula with quality ingredients
- Works well for adult acne and hormonal breakouts
- Cruelty-free, vegan, and clean formula
- A little goes a long way - lasts 4-6 months
- Can be used on face, chest, and back
Criticized
- Premium price point ($48 for 8.4 oz)
- May cause initial purging period
- Menthol can irritate very sensitive skin
- Not suitable for very dry skin types
- Some find the herbal scent too strong
- Contains ingredients that may trigger fungal acne
- Produces less foam than some expect
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains salicylic acid with ceramides and niacinamide for gentler approach. No cooling sensation, fragrance-free. Better for sensitive skin but less botanical benefits.
Higher 2% salicylic acid concentration. Dermatologist recommended, contains LHA for additional exfoliation. May be more drying but highly effective for stubborn acne.
0.5% salicylic acid, completely fragrance-free. Gentler formula without cooling agents. Better for those sensitive to menthol but lacks the botanical complexity.
2% salicylic acid with zinc. Very affordable option. Simpler formula without the botanical extracts but effective for basic acne control.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed.
Recyclable plastic bottle with pump dispenser. FSC certified sustainable packaging.
8.4 oz bottle exceeds TSA carry-on limit. Purchase travel size or decant into smaller container for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 0.5% salicylic acid. While the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers low-concentration topical salicylic acid in wash-off products generally safe during pregnancy, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider. For breastfeeding, the NIH's LactMed database indicates that topical salicylic acid is unlikely to be significantly absorbed or appear in breast milk, making it considered safe during lactation. Avoid applying near areas that may contact your baby.
Use with caution if you have fungal acne. The formula contains Polysorbate 80 and Shea Butter, which may potentially feed malassezia yeast. However, because this is a wash-off product with short skin contact time, the risk is lower than leave-on products. Salicylic acid itself can actually help with fungal acne. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider alternatives like benzoyl peroxide or zinc pyrithione cleansers, or patch test this product first.
Yes, but introduce slowly to avoid over-exfoliation. Since this is a wash-off product, it's generally well-tolerated with other actives. However, if using prescription retinoids or strong acids, you may want to use this cleanser only once daily or every other day. Start with using this cleanser in the morning and your retinol at night. If you experience irritation, dryness, or peeling, reduce frequency. Always use sunscreen during the day when using exfoliating products.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically designed for those dealing with breakouts, excess oil, clogged pores, and visible signs of skin aging. It also works well for "backne" (back acne). Those with normal skin can use it for occasional breakouts. It may be too drying for very dry or dehydrated skin types, and those with extremely sensitive skin should patch test first due to the menthol content.
You'll feel cleaner skin immediately after the first use. Most users notice reduced oiliness within 1-2 weeks. Visible improvement in breakouts typically occurs around week 3-4, with Dermalogica's clinical study showing 100% of participants experienced smoother, softer skin after 4 weeks of daily use. For optimal long-term results, continue consistent use for 6-8 weeks. Some users may experience initial "purging" as clogged pores clear out - this typically resolves within 2-3 weeks.
Use this as the first step in your skincare routine, or as the second step if double cleansing. For double cleansing (recommended for removing makeup/sunscreen), use Dermalogica PreCleanse or an oil cleanser first, then follow with this wash. After cleansing, proceed with toner, treatment serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). Use morning and/or evening based on your skin's tolerance.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is specifically designed not to clog pores. As a wash-off product, ingredients don't remain on skin long enough to cause pore congestion. The salicylic acid actually helps unclog existing pores by dissolving the "glue" that holds dead skin cells together inside follicles. It's formulated to be non-irritating for acne-prone skin.
The product has a 12-month period after opening (PAO). Most users find the 8.4 oz bottle lasts 4-6 months with twice-daily use, as only a pea-sized amount is needed. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. The bottle and pump are fully recyclable. Check the packaging for the PAO symbol (open jar icon) and note when you first opened it.
Verdict: Dermalogica Acne Clearing Skin Wash is a premium, professional-grade cleanser that delivers on its promises for oily and acne-prone skin. The encapsulated salicylic acid effectively clears pores while the botanical-rich formula provides soothing benefits that cheaper alternatives lack. The cooling menthol sensation is refreshing for most but may be too intense for very sensitive skin. At $48, it's a significant investment, but the quality ingredients, clean formula, and long-lasting bottle justify the price for those who can afford it. For budget-conscious shoppers, CeraVe and La Roche-Posay offer effective alternatives at a fraction of the cost. Best suited for adult acne sufferers who want both clearing and anti-aging benefits in one step.
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
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.