Blackhead Eliminating Salicylic Acid Daily Face Scrub
Blackhead Eliminating Salicylic Acid Daily Face Scrub
Product Description
Product overview
A daily exfoliating face scrub with maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid that penetrates deep into pores to eliminate existing blackheads while gentle physical exfoliators sweep away dead skin cells to help prevent new ones from forming. Clinically proven to reduce blackheads from the first use.
Maximum Strength BHA
Contains the FDA-approved maximum OTC concentration of 2% salicylic acid to dissolve oil and debris trapped inside pores.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMaximum Strength BHA
Contains the FDA-approved maximum OTC concentration of 2% salicylic acid to dissolve oil and debris trapped inside pores.
Dual-Action Exfoliation
Combines chemical exfoliation (salicylic acid) with gentle physical exfoliators to sweep away dead skin cells without over-drying.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Oil-soluble BHA penetrates into pores to dissolve blackhead-causing dirt and oil at the source, preventing future buildup.
No Plastic Microbeads
Environmentally friendly formula uses cellulose-based or alternative exfoliating beads instead of harmful plastic microbeads.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid, the upper limit deemed acceptable by ACOG for topical use. As a wash-off product, systemic absorption is minimal. Consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 60, Cetyl Alcohol, and esters (Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate) that may feed malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. As a rinse-off product, pore-clogging risk is very low even with emollients in the formula.
Includes synthetic fragrance and menthol which may irritate sensitive or reactive skin. Patch test recommended for sensitive skin types.
Formulated without parabens, silicones, sulfates, harsh alcohols, or oils. Suitable for those avoiding these ingredient categories.
While marketed for daily use, physical scrubbing every day may cause irritation for some skin types. Start with 2-3 times per week and increase frequency as tolerated.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve the mixture of sebum and dead skin cells that form blackheads. Also provides anti-inflammatory benefits similar to aspirin.
- Mechanism: Dissolves intercellular lipids that bind dead cells in pores, promoting desquamation from within
- FDA Status: 0.5-2% recognized as OTC acne treatment by the U.S. FDA
- Research: Well-established keratolytic and comedolytic agent with decades of clinical evidence
Cellulose / Physical ExfoliatorsFunctional
Plant-derived cellulose fibers (or polyethylene beads in the US version) provide gentle physical exfoliation to buff away surface dead skin cells, complementing the chemical exfoliation of salicylic acid.
- Source: Cellulose is derived from wood pulp or cotton — a biodegradable, eco-friendly alternative to plastic microbeads
- Action: Mechanically loosens and removes surface debris and flaky skin
Menthol / Menthyl LactateSensory
Provides a cooling, refreshing sensation on the skin. Menthyl lactate is a milder derivative of menthol that delivers a long-lasting cool feel with less irritation potential.
- Function: Cooling agent and counter-irritant that creates a fresh, clean feeling after use
- Typical use level: 0.5-1% for menthyl lactate in cosmetic products
GlycerinProven
A well-researched humectant that draws moisture into the skin, helping to counterbalance the potentially drying effects of salicylic acid and physical exfoliation.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and retains water in the outer skin layer
- Benefit: Helps prevent the over-drying commonly associated with acne treatments
22 ingredients
Active: Salicylic Acid 2%. Inactive: Water, Cetyl Alcohol, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Polyethylene, Methyl Gluceth-20, Steareth-21, Coco-Glucoside, Steareth-2, Polysorbate 60, Linoleamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Menthol, Disodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Agar, Mica, Titanium Dioxide, CI 77492, CI 15850, Fragrance.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your cleanser step, morning or evening. This is a wash-off exfoliating cleanser — follow with your regular toner, serum, and moisturizer. Always apply sunscreen during the day when using BHA products.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face thoroughly with lukewarm water. The product works best on a wet face to help the beads glide smoothly.
Apply & Massage
Squeeze a small amount into your hands and gently massage onto your face in circular motions, focusing on blackhead-prone areas (nose, chin, forehead). Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Follow with your toner and moisturizer.
Frequency
Start with 2-3 times per week and increase to daily use if tolerated. If excessive dryness or peeling occurs, reduce frequency to every other day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with recurring blackheads on your nose, chin, or T-zone
- You have oily or combination skin with visible clogged pores
- You want both chemical and physical exfoliation in one step
- You prefer an affordable drugstore option from a trusted brand
- You like a refreshing, cooling cleanser experience
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this product is not FA safe
- Your skin is very sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone
- You dislike fragrance or menthol in skincare products
- You have dry or dehydrated skin that cannot tolerate daily BHA
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid salicylic acid entirely
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Oil-free formula with salicylic acid cuts through excess sebum and cleans deep into pores without adding shine.
Great for targeting the oily T-zone. Focus scrubbing on blackhead-prone areas and go lighter on dry cheeks.
Effective for non-inflammatory acne (blackheads, whiteheads). For inflammatory/cystic acne, consider pairing with benzoyl peroxide or seeing a dermatologist.
BHA and physical exfoliation can be drying. Limit use to 1-2 times per week and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
Contains fragrance and menthol, which can trigger irritation. Patch test first and use sparingly. Sensitive skin types may prefer a fragrance-free BHA cleanser.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Clean Feel
Skin feels noticeably cleaner and smoother after first use. Surface dead skin cells are buffed away and pores appear slightly clearer. The cooling menthol provides a refreshing sensation.
97% noticed clearer skin after first washReduced Surface Blackheads
Consistent use begins to show visible reduction in surface-level blackheads. Pores look less congested, especially around the nose and chin areas. Some users may experience mild purging.
70% noticed blackhead reductionClearer, Refined Complexion
Pores appear minimized and the overall complexion looks more refined. Blackhead recurrence is reduced as salicylic acid works preventatively. Skin texture feels smoother and more even.
60% noticed pore refinementMaintained Results
Continued daily or regular use helps maintain clear pores and prevent new blackhead formation. Deep, stubborn blackheads may require additional treatment methods or professional extraction.
50% report long-term blackhead preventionRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Affordable drugstore price (~$10) from a dermatologist-recommended brand
- Maximum strength 2% salicylic acid for effective blackhead treatment
- Gentle beads that dissolve during use — not abrasive like walnut shell scrubs
- Leaves skin feeling clean, smooth, and refreshed without over-drying
- Clinically proven results backed by Neutrogena research
- No plastic microbeads — more environmentally friendly
Criticized
- Contains fragrance and menthol — not suitable for fragrance-free purists
- May not eliminate deep, stubborn blackheads completely
- Daily physical scrubbing can irritate sensitive skin over time
- Not fungal acne safe due to polysorbates and esters
- Small tube (4.2 oz) may not last long with daily use
- Some reviewers report enlarged pores with prolonged daily scrubbing
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 1% salicylic acid (half the concentration) plus green tea extract. Uses walnut shell powder as physical exfoliant which can be harsher. Larger 6 oz tube at a lower price point. Non-comedogenic and paraben-free.
Same 2% salicylic acid concentration but in a leave-on mask format instead of a scrub. Includes charcoal and kaolin clay for additional oil absorption. No physical exfoliation. Fragrance-free and simpler ingredient list.
Also 2% salicylic acid but in a gel-to-foam format without physical scrub beads. Added ceramides, niacinamide, and purifying clay. More gentle, fragrance-free approach. Better for sensitive skin but lacks the physical exfoliation element.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep cap tightly closed between uses.
Squeezable plastic tube with flip-top cap. See-through design shows product level.
Yes — 4.2 fl oz (124ml) is over the 100ml carry-on limit, but the tube is lightweight and leak-resistant for checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper limit of what the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers acceptable for topical use during pregnancy. Because it is a wash-off product with brief skin contact, systemic absorption is minimal. However, many OB-GYNs prefer pregnant patients avoid salicylic acid entirely. For breastfeeding, topical 2% salicylic acid is generally considered safe per WHO guidelines, as long as you avoid applying it near areas that contact your baby. Always consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients known to potentially feed malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 60 (a polysorbate emulsifier), Cetyl Alcohol (a fatty alcohol), and Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate (an ester). If you have fungal acne, consider a simpler BHA treatment like Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which has a fungal acne-safe formula.
Be cautious when combining. Using this 2% salicylic acid scrub alongside retinol, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), or additional BHA products can over-exfoliate and damage your skin barrier, leading to redness, peeling, and irritation. If you use retinol, apply it on alternate nights from this scrub. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can be used in the same routine — apply it after cleansing with this scrub, as the low pH from BHA can actually help vitamin C absorb. Never use multiple exfoliating products in the same routine without building tolerance gradually.
This scrub is best suited for oily and combination skin types that struggle with blackheads and clogged pores. The oil-free formula with 2% salicylic acid is specifically designed to cut through excess sebum. It works well for normal skin too, though you may not need to use it daily. Dry or sensitive skin types should use it sparingly (1-2 times per week) and always follow with a hydrating moisturizer, as the BHA and physical exfoliation can be drying.
Most users notice smoother, cleaner-feeling skin after the very first use. Visible reduction in surface blackheads typically appears within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For more significant pore refinement and blackhead prevention, expect 3-4 weeks. Neutrogena states the product is clinically proven to help prevent blackheads for up to 3 weeks with regular use. Note that deep, stubborn blackheads may require longer treatment or professional extraction.
This scrub replaces your regular cleanser as the first step in your routine. Use it on a wet face, massage gently, and rinse off. Then continue with your toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). You can also use it as a second cleanse after an oil cleanser if you double-cleanse in the evening. Do not use it after applying other products — it should always go on clean, wet skin.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. While it does contain some emollients like Cetyl Alcohol and PPG-15 Stearyl Ether that have mild comedogenic potential, these are in a wash-off formula that is rinsed from the skin after about 60 seconds. The brief contact time means pore-clogging risk is negligible. The salicylic acid in the formula actually works to unclog pores, so the net effect is pore-clearing rather than pore-clogging.
The product has a shelf life of approximately 3 years from the manufacturing date when unopened, and roughly 12 months after opening (12M PAO). The 4.2 fl oz (124ml) tube typically lasts 4-8 weeks with daily use, or 2-3 months when used 2-3 times per week. Store at room temperature and keep the flip-top cap closed to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Daily Face Scrub is a solid, affordable drugstore option for anyone battling blackheads and clogged pores. The maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid delivers real pore-clearing power, and the gentle exfoliating beads provide satisfying physical exfoliation without being harsh. It excels for oily and combination skin types looking for a no-fuss, one-step treatment. However, the inclusion of fragrance and menthol limits its appeal for sensitive skin, and it is not fungal acne safe. For the best results, use it 2-3 times per week rather than daily, and pair it with a good moisturizer and sunscreen. If you want a more advanced, fragrance-free BHA treatment, consider the CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser or Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid — but for the price point and accessibility, this Neutrogena scrub remains a reliable blackhead fighter.
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
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
PPG-15 Stearyl Ether
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyethylene
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming, Abrasive, Bulking Agent, Adhesive
|
|