Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel
Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel
Product Description
Product overview
Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel is a prescription-strength topical acne treatment powered by 1% salicylic acid. This fast-drying, lightweight gel targets active breakouts, helps prevent new ones from forming, controls excess oil, and refines pores — all while remaining gentle enough for sensitive, acne-prone skin thanks to soothing Sea Whip Extract and Witch Hazel. Dermatologist developed, allergy tested, and 100% fragrance-free.
Prescription-Strength Results
In a 12-week clinical study, results were comparable to a leading topical acne prescription for clearing acne.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPrescription-Strength Results
In a 12-week clinical study, results were comparable to a leading topical acne prescription for clearing acne.
Fast-Acting Formula
Starts working on contact to fight existing breakouts and helps prevent new blemishes from surfacing.
Soothing Sea Whip
Sustainable sea coral extract calms irritation — ideal for sensitive skin that can't tolerate harsh actives.
Invisible Under Makeup
Dries down to a clear, matte finish that layers seamlessly under moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% salicylic acid. Most dermatologists consider topical BHA under 2% generally low-risk, but ACOG recommends consulting your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Formula contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or ferments that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne sufferers.
Oil-free formula rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores or trigger breakouts.
Avoid using with benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or AHAs at the same time. Combining may cause excessive dryness or irritation.
Alcohol Denat. is second on the INCI list. May be drying for very dry or compromised skin barriers; follow with a hydrating moisturizer.
No added fragrance, parabens, phthalates, or synthetic dyes. Suitable for sensitive, reactive skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 1%Proven
The hero active ingredient and an FDA-recognized OTC acne treatment. This oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (BHA) penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris that cause clogs and breakouts.
- Source: FDA recognizes 0.5–2% salicylic acid as an effective OTC acne treatment.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, penetrates into pores; also offers mild anti-inflammatory action similar to aspirin.
- Benefit: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, controls excess oil, and calms inflamed lesions.
Alcohol Denat. ~20–30%Proven
Denatured alcohol acts as a solvent that helps salicylic acid penetrate the skin quickly, while also delivering an instant matte finish and rapid evaporation — key for the "invisible under makeup" feel.
- Source: Common delivery vehicle in prescription-strength topical acne treatments.
- Function: Degreases the skin surface, boosts active penetration, and accelerates drying time.
- Position: Listed second on the INCI — indicates a high concentration in the formula.
Hamamelis Virginiana Water TracePromising
Witch hazel water is a plant-derived extract known for astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties thanks to its tannin and catechin content. It helps tighten the look of pores and reduces surface redness.
- Source: Traditionally used by Indigenous peoples of North America for skin inflammation.
- Function: Astringent effect that tones skin and helps control shine.
- Compatibility: Gentle on most skin types, including sensitive.
Laminaria Saccharina Extract TracePromising
A brown sea kelp extract that helps balance excess sebum production and deliver lightweight hydration to acne-prone skin without adding greasiness.
- Source: Marine-sourced seaweed rich in minerals and polysaccharides.
- Function: Helps reduce the look of oiliness and prevents the buildup of pore-clogging sebum.
- Bonus: Offers gentle hydration to counterbalance the drying effect of BHA and alcohol.
Sea Whip Extract TracePromising
A sustainably sourced soft coral extract prized for its calming, anti-irritation benefits. This is the ingredient that makes the formula tolerable for sensitive, redness-prone, and rosacea-adjacent skin.
- Source: Derived from sustainable soft coral harvesting.
- Function: Reduces irritation signals in skin, making stronger actives better tolerated.
- Use case: Often added to sensitive-skin-friendly acne formulas.
Butylene Glycol Low %Proven
A multi-functional humectant that draws moisture into the skin, enhances active ingredient delivery, and improves the overall texture and slip of the gel.
- Function: Hydrator, solvent, and penetration enhancer.
- Safety: Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive.
- Benefit: Softens the drying effect of alcohol and salicylic acid.
9 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid 1.00%
Inactive Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Water\Aqua\Eau, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Sea Whip Extract, Butylene Glycol, Benzalkonium Chloride.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning on dry skin. Let it absorb completely (30–60 seconds) before layering serum or moisturizer. Always use SPF 30+ during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat skin dry — do not rub.
Start Slow
Begin with one application per day to let your skin acclimate. Gradually increase to twice daily if tolerated.
Apply a Thin Layer
Dispense a pea-sized amount. Spread a thin, even layer over the entire face OR spot-apply directly to blemishes. Avoid the eye area.
Let It Dry Completely
Wait 30–60 seconds for the gel to fully absorb to a matte finish before applying moisturizer, sunscreen, or makeup.
Moisturize & Protect
Always follow with a hydrating moisturizer. During the day, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ — BHA-treated skin is more sensitive to UV.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have persistent hormonal, adult, or inflammatory acne
- Your skin is oily, combination, or acne-prone
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- Other salicylic acid products have been too irritating
- You want a fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed treatment
- You need a thin-finish product that wears well under makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or severely dehydrated skin
- Your skin barrier is currently compromised or peeling
- You have rosacea with an active flare-up
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You are allergic or sensitive to denatured alcohol
- You are already using prescription retinoids or benzoyl peroxide
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Oil-free BHA gel controls shine, minimizes pores, and dries quickly to a matte finish.
Alcohol and BHA can be drying. Use only as a spot treatment and always layer a rich moisturizer on top.
Works beautifully — apply all over or spot-treat oilier T-zone while keeping cheeks hydrated separately.
Sea Whip Extract soothes irritation, making this more tolerable than most BHA treatments. Patch test first.
Designed specifically for this skin type. Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fungal-acne safe.
Suitable for adult acne, but alcohol content may be drying over time. Pair with a barrier-supporting moisturizer.
Results timeline
6–12 WEEKSImmediate Matte Finish
Skin feels instantly less oily. Existing blemishes may tingle slightly as salicylic acid begins penetrating pores.
82% noticedActive Pimples Shrink
Individual breakouts visibly reduce in size and redness. Spot-treated pimples often flatten by the next morning.
74% noticedFewer New Breakouts
Blackheads and whiteheads decrease as pores become cleaner. Skin texture starts looking smoother and more refined.
68% noticedPrescription-Level Clarity
Clinique's clinical study showed results comparable to a leading topical acne prescription after a 12-week regimen.
Clinically provenRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible pimple reduction often within 24 hours
- Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, dermatologist-developed
- Gentler on sensitive skin than most BHA products
- Dries quickly and wears invisibly under makeup
- Clinical study showed results comparable to a prescription
- Works as both all-over treatment and spot treatment
- Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe
- Free from parabens, phthalates, oil, sulfates
Criticized
- Small 15ml size relative to the price
- High alcohol content can dry out sensitive or dehydrated skin
- Not ideal for pregnant or breastfeeding users
- Less effective on deep cystic acne than topical prescriptions
- Brief tingling sensation on application
- Cannot be layered with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids simultaneously
- Requires consistent use over weeks for full clearing effect
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 2% salicylic acid concentration in a larger 118ml bottle. Also oil-soluble BHA with witch hazel, but less alcohol-forward and more hydrating. Cult-favorite alternative for acne and clogged pores.
Same BHA mechanism at double the strength (2%), at a fraction of the price. Lacks Sea Whip soothing benefits, so it can be more irritating for sensitive skin. Best for tolerant, oily skin.
A rinse-off salicylic acid cleanser with added ceramides for barrier support. Much gentler but less intensive — great as a supporting product or starter BHA.
Contains 4% betaine salicylate (equivalent to roughly 2% salicylic acid) plus willow bark. Alcohol-free and much more hydrating — great for drier acne-prone skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life is typically 24–36 months from manufacture date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly capped to prevent alcohol evaporation.
Squeeze tube with a narrow nozzle for precise, hygienic dispensing.
Yes — the 15ml tube is well under the 100ml TSA limit for carry-on liquids.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains 1% salicylic acid. While topical BHA concentrations under 2% are generally considered low-risk by most dermatologists, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using salicylic acid products during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Oral salicylates are contraindicated, but topical use is typically more conservative than restrictive.
Yes. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty esters, polysorbates, ferments, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. Salicylic acid itself is actually beneficial for fungal acne as it helps dissolve the sebum that malassezia feeds on. This is a good choice for people with both bacterial and fungal acne.
Use caution when layering. Combining this product with other topical acne medications (benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or other exfoliating acids) at the same time may significantly increase dryness and irritation. A safer approach is to alternate them — salicylic acid in the morning and retinol at night, or on different days. Vitamin C can be used in the morning and the clearing gel at night. Always patch-test new combinations.
It's best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin that needs persistent breakout control. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it better than most BHA products thanks to the Sea Whip Extract. Very dry or dehydrated skin may find the alcohol content too harsh — spot treatment is recommended for those users. Not ideal for compromised barriers or active eczema.
Spot-treated individual pimples often visibly reduce within 24 hours. Overall skin clarity improvements — fewer new breakouts, reduced blackheads, smoother texture — typically become noticeable within 2–4 weeks of consistent use. Clinique's own clinical testing demonstrated results comparable to a leading topical acne prescription after a 12-week regimen.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Use on dry skin and let it absorb fully (30–60 seconds) before layering additional products. It can be used once or twice daily. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ since salicylic acid can make skin more UV-sensitive.
No. The formula is explicitly oil-free and classified as non-acnegenic by Clinique. Rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. In fact, the entire purpose of this product is to unclog existing pores by dissolving the sebum and dead skin cells that cause breakouts.
12 months after first opening (Period After Opening / PAO = 12M). Unopened and stored in a cool, dry place, the product typically maintains stability for 24–36 months from the manufacture date. Discard if the gel changes color, scent, or consistency.
Verdict: Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel is a reliable, dermatologist-developed BHA treatment that earns its reputation for delivering near-prescription-strength results on surface acne. The standout feature is the Sea Whip Extract, which makes this one of the better-tolerated 1% salicylic acid formulas on the market for sensitive, acne-prone skin. The small 15ml size and high alcohol content are fair criticisms, and it won't replace a true prescription for deep cystic acne — but for persistent blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory breakouts, this is a trustworthy daily treatment with decades of clinical backing behind it.
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|