Acne Foaming Cream Wash
Acne Foaming Cream Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed maximum-strength acne cleanser by CeraVe featuring 10% benzoyl peroxide — the highest concentration available without a prescription — uniquely paired with three essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to clear breakouts on the face and body without compromising the skin barrier.
Maximum OTC Strength
10% benzoyl peroxide — the highest concentration available without a prescription — targets P. acnes bacteria fast.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMaximum OTC Strength
10% benzoyl peroxide — the highest concentration available without a prescription — targets P. acnes bacteria fast.
Barrier-Supporting Formula
Three essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) plus cholesterol and phytosphingosine replenish the lipid barrier while treating acne.
Hydrating Acne Treatment
Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, and niacinamide keep skin soft and calm to offset BPO's drying potential.
Dermatologist-Developed
Formulated with board-certified dermatologists and clinically tested for face and body use on acne-prone skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no problematic fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast.
Formulated and tested to not clog pores — suitable for daily use on acne-prone skin.
Benzoyl peroxide is generally considered low-risk topically, but always consult your OB/GYN before use during pregnancy or nursing.
BPO will discolor fabrics, hair, and towels on contact. Use white towels and rinse hands thoroughly after use.
May increase sun sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential when using this product.
Avoid layering with retinol or vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) at the same time — BPO can oxidize and deactivate them.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 10%Proven
The FDA-approved gold-standard acne active. Releases oxygen into pores, killing Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) bacteria while also exfoliating dead skin cells that lead to clogged pores.
- FDA status: Approved as safe and effective for OTC acne treatment at concentrations up to 10%.
- Mechanism: Decomposes on skin to release oxygen, lethal to anaerobic acne bacteria.
- Bonus: Bacteria cannot develop resistance to BPO — unlike antibiotics.
Ceramides NP, AP & EOP Barrier TrioProven
CeraVe's signature three-ceramide complex mimics the lipids naturally found in the skin's outermost layer, filling gaps between skin cells to seal in moisture and seal out irritants.
- Why it matters: BPO is known to disrupt the skin barrier — ceramides proactively replenish it.
- Research-backed: Topical ceramides shown to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in barrier-compromised skin.
Niacinamide ~2–4%Proven
Vitamin B3 derivative that calms inflammation, regulates sebum production, and strengthens the skin barrier — a perfect companion to a potent active like BPO.
- Clinical evidence: Shown to reduce acne lesion count comparable to 1% clindamycin in studies.
- Additional benefits: Reduces redness and may fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from old breakouts.
Sodium Hyaluronate HumectantProven
The sodium-salt form of hyaluronic acid, smaller and more stable than HA itself. Attracts and holds up to 1,000× its weight in water to keep skin hydrated during cleansing.
- Function here: Offsets the drying nature of surfactants and 10% BPO.
- Smart pairing: Lower molecular weight than HA allows deeper penetration.
Glycolic Acid TracePromising
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) included at a very low supporting level. Helps gently loosen dead skin cells and boost cellular turnover to support the clearing action of BPO.
- In this formula: Used at trace amount — this is NOT a full AHA exfoliant.
- Synergy: Can enhance BPO's keratolytic (dead-skin-removing) action.
Cholesterol & Phytosphingosine Lipid MatrixProven
Two additional barrier lipids that work alongside ceramides. Together they form the physiological lipid ratio (ceramides + cholesterol + fatty acids) shown to repair damaged skin barriers.
- Barrier science: This specific lipid combination mimics healthy stratum corneum composition.
- Phytosphingosine: Also has mild antimicrobial properties that complement BPO.
29 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide 10%, Water, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Potassium Hydroxide, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Niacinamide, Glycolic Acid, Trideceth-6, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Propanediol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Caprylyl Glycol, Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Benzoic Acid, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis is a Step 1 cleanser — always the first step. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to offset potential dryness, and always finish mornings with SPF 30+.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Skin
Dampen the face or body area with lukewarm — not hot — water to prepare skin for cleansing.
Apply a Dime-Sized Amount
Dispense a dime-sized amount onto fingertips or a clean washcloth. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Massage in circular motions for 30 seconds until a light foam forms. Avoid the eye, lip, and nostril area.
Rinse Well & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and gently pat — don't rub — dry with a clean, white towel.
Start Slow
Begin with once daily to build tolerance. Gradually increase to twice daily if no irritation occurs.
Moisturize & Protect
Always follow with a lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizer and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with stubborn, persistent inflammatory acne
- You have body acne (back, chest, shoulders, buttocks)
- You've tried salicylic acid and need something stronger
- You have oily or combination, acne-prone skin
- You want a barrier-respectful BPO formula
- You want a dermatologist-developed, drugstore-priced option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive skin or rosacea
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (without doctor approval)
- You're using prescription retinoids or strong actives
- You have eczema or severely compromised skin
- Your acne is mild — 4% BPO or salicylic acid may suffice
- You have a known benzoyl peroxide allergy
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCuts through excess sebum while the BPO kills acne bacteria — ideal for oily, breakout-prone complexions.
Ceramides help, but 10% BPO can still be drying. Limit to once daily or 3–4× per week and moisturize well.
Treats T-zone breakouts without stripping drier cheek areas thanks to ceramide and hyaluronic acid buffering.
Fragrance-free and ceramide-rich, but 10% BPO is potent. Patch test first and consider CeraVe's 4% version instead.
The target demographic — maximum OTC strength, non-comedogenic, and fungal-acne safe.
Useful for adult hormonal acne, but may be too drying long-term — rotate with gentler options and use rich moisturizer.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8–12Initial Adjustment
Skin may feel slightly tight or show mild purging/dryness as the BPO begins working. Stick to once-daily application.
~65% report adjustment periodVisible Clearing Begins
Active pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads start reducing in size and number. Fewer new breakouts forming.
~72% see noticeable reductionSignificant Improvement
Major reduction in active breakouts. Skin tone appears more even; body acne on chest and back clears noticeably.
~80% see major improvementMaintenance Phase
Clearer, calmer complexion with fewer recurring breakouts. Dermatologists recommend re-evaluating if results plateau here.
~85% report clearer skinRatings by platform
23K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum OTC-strength 10% BPO — highly effective
- Clears cystic and stubborn acne where 2.5%/4% failed
- Ceramides soften the drying impact of BPO
- Works on both face and body (back, chest, shoulders)
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic
- Affordable drugstore price point
- FSA/HSA eligible in the US
- Fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe formulation
Criticized
- Bleaches fabrics, towels, hair, and pillowcases
- Can be too drying for sensitive or dry skin
- 5 oz tube runs out fast for full-body use
- Not compatible with vitamin C or retinol simultaneously
- Requires SPF — increases sun sensitivity
- Slight oxidized/medicinal scent from BPO
- Takes 4–6 weeks for full visible results
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 10% BPO strength at a larger 5.5 oz size. No ceramides or hyaluronic acid — can be noticeably drying, but the most direct price-per-ounce alternative.
Minimalist 7-ingredient formula with 10% BPO. Very gentle surfactants, but lacks the ceramide-niacinamide-HA trio that makes CeraVe hydrating.
CeraVe's 4% BPO version — same ceramide-niacinamide-HA trio, much less drying. Ideal if 10% is too harsh for your skin.
![Effaclar Duo [+] SPF 30](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0907/5028/8215/files/pg5xsf6ex00znkgwq00ls4pgcrl7.jpg?v=1774942416)
Lower BPO concentration (4%) but adds LHA exfoliant. Gentler overall and better for sensitive skin, though less aggressive on cystic acne.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Differin Max Strength Cleanser 10%
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M). BPO naturally degrades over time — use within 1 year for full potency.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in the shower long-term.
Opaque plastic squeeze tube with flip-top cap — protects BPO from light-induced oxidation.
Yes — 5 fl oz (150 ml) is over the TSA 3.4 oz limit for carry-on; pack in checked luggage or decant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide is generally considered a lower-risk topical acne treatment during pregnancy and breastfeeding compared to retinoids or oral isotretinoin, because systemic absorption is minimal — especially from a rinse-off cleanser. However, at 10% concentration, always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before continuing use. Many providers prefer azelaic acid or lower-concentration BPO (2.5–4%) during pregnancy.
Yes — this formula is considered fungal-acne safe. It contains no long-chain fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, benzoyl peroxide itself has antifungal properties, making this cleanser potentially helpful for people dealing with both acne vulgaris and fungal acne simultaneously.
Use with caution. Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize and deactivate pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and some retinoids (like tretinoin) when applied simultaneously. A safer approach is to use BPO wash in the morning and retinol at night, or alternate days. AHA/BHA exfoliants can be used, but stacking multiple actives significantly increases irritation risk — introduce one active at a time.
It's best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types struggling with moderate to severe inflammatory breakouts. The ceramide-enriched formula makes it more tolerable for normal skin than typical BPO washes, but people with dry, sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-prone skin should opt for the gentler 4% BPO version or consult a dermatologist first.
Most users notice a reduction in active breakouts within 2–3 weeks of consistent use. Significant improvement typically occurs between weeks 4 and 6. According to the Mayo Clinic, benzoyl peroxide products may require several weeks to months of consistent use before full results are visible. If no improvement is seen after 6 weeks, consult a board-certified dermatologist.
It's always the first step — your cleanser. Apply to damp skin, massage for 30 seconds to allow the BPO to contact bacteria, then rinse and pat dry. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer (like CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion) and, in the morning, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Can be used on face and body as the first step.
No — it's rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale and is officially labeled non-comedogenic. The formula is actually designed to unclog pores: benzoyl peroxide clears blockages and dead skin cells, while the supporting ingredients (ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide) hydrate without adding pore-clogging oils or waxes.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Benzoyl peroxide is a relatively stable active but does slowly degrade on exposure to air, light, and heat. Use within 12 months of opening for maximum potency, store the opaque tube in a cool, dry place (not the shower long-term), and discard if the color, texture, or smell changes noticeably.
Verdict: CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Wash delivers the maximum OTC benzoyl peroxide strength (10%) in one of the most barrier-friendly formats on the market. The addition of three essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid meaningfully offsets the drying and irritation typically associated with high-strength BPO — a genuine improvement over minimalist competitors like PanOxyl and Differin. It's highly effective for moderate-to-severe face and body acne at a drugstore price, but still requires patience, sunscreen, and white towels. Not the right pick for sensitive or very dry skin — try the 4% version instead — but for stubborn breakouts in oily or combination skin, this is one of the best-formulated 10% BPO washes available without a prescription.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|