Blemish Control Cleanser
Blemish Control Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed gel-to-foam cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and 3 Essential Ceramides that targets blemishes and blackheads while maintaining your skin's protective barrier. Formulated with oil-absorbing Hectorite Clay to minimize shine without stripping moisture.
Targets Blemishes at the Source
2% Salicylic Acid penetrates pores to eliminate the root causes of spots, blemishes, and blackheads while helping prevent future breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTargets Blemishes at the Source
2% Salicylic Acid penetrates pores to eliminate the root causes of spots, blemishes, and blackheads while helping prevent future breakouts.
Protects Skin Barrier
Contains 3 Essential Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that help restore and maintain your skin's natural protective barrier while cleansing.
Oil-Absorbing Technology
Hectorite Clay helps absorb excess oil and minimize visible shine without over-drying or stripping the skin.
Calms & Soothes
Niacinamide helps calm skin, reduce redness, and support the skin barrier for a more comfortable cleansing experience.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid. According to ACOG, topical products with 2% or less salicylic acid are generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, consult your healthcare provider before use. Avoid applying to areas that may contact baby's skin while breastfeeding.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate and coconut-derived surfactants (Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate) that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Formula is tested and proven non-comedogenic with a rating of 1/5. Will not clog pores or contribute to acne when used as directed.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and allergy-tested. Contains soothing niacinamide and barrier-supporting ceramides to minimize irritation.
Safe to use with most skincare ingredients. Use caution when combining with other BHAs, AHAs, or retinoids - may increase dryness or irritation. Introduce gradually.
Salicylic acid does not increase photosensitivity. However, always use SPF during the day as part of a complete skincare routine.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris that cause acne and blackheads.
- Mechanism: Breaks down intercellular bonds between dead skin cells (keratolytic action)
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, prevents new breakouts, anti-inflammatory
- FDA Status: 0.5-2% recognized as OTC acne treatment ingredient
Niacinamide High in listProven
Also known as Vitamin B3, niacinamide is a multi-functional ingredient that calms inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps regulate oil production.
- Benefits: Reduces redness, improves skin texture, minimizes pore appearance
- Synergy: Works synergistically with ceramides to support barrier function
- Research: 2-5% effective for oil control, 4-6% for anti-acne benefits
Ceramides NP, AP, EOP 3 TypesProven
Three essential ceramides identical to those naturally found in your skin. They comprise about 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier and are crucial for maintaining hydration.
- Function: Fill gaps between skin cells to create a protective moisture barrier
- Benefits: Prevents water loss, protects against irritants, supports healing
- CeraVe Technology: MVE delivery system for time-released hydration
Gluconolactone (PHA) SupportingPromising
A polyhydroxy acid that provides gentle exfoliation while also functioning as a humectant. Considered gentler than traditional AHAs.
- Benefits: Gentle exfoliation, attracts moisture, antioxidant properties
- Advantage: Larger molecular size means less irritation potential
- Research: Can stimulate production of skin's own hyaluronic acid
Hectorite Clay Oil-AbsorbingEffective
A natural purifying clay that helps absorb excess oil and sebum from the skin surface, leaving a matte, shine-free finish without over-drying.
- Function: Absorbs excess sebum and oil
- Benefits: Controls shine, minimizes greasy appearance
- Gentleness: Less drying than some other clay types
27 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Calcium Gluconate, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum, Hectorite, Phytosphingosine, Benzoic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleansing step (or second step after oil cleanser for double cleansing). Suitable for both AM and PM routines.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water to prepare the skin for cleansing.
Dispense & Lather
Use the pump to dispense a small amount (dime-sized) onto wet hands. The clear gel will transform into a light foam as you lather.
Massage Gently
Apply to damp skin and massage in gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on oily or blemish-prone areas.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with the rest of your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want a cleanser that controls shine without over-drying
- You need a fragrance-free, non-irritating formula
- You want to maintain your skin barrier while treating acne
- You prefer dermatologist-recommended products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- Your skin is very dry or dehydrated
- You're already using multiple BHA/AHA products
- You have extremely sensitive skin that reacts to salicylic acid
- You prefer oil-based or cream cleansers
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all salicylic acid products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid and hectorite clay effectively control excess oil and shine while ceramides prevent over-drying.
Great for balancing oily T-zone while ceramides and niacinamide keep drier areas comfortable and hydrated.
Specifically formulated for this skin type. 2% salicylic acid targets breakouts at the source and prevents new ones from forming.
Fragrance-free and contains soothing ingredients. Start with every other day use and gradually increase. Patch test first.
May be too drying for very dry skin types. If you have dry acne-prone skin, use sparingly and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEInitial Cleansing & Oil Control
Skin feels cleaner and less oily immediately after use. Some users may experience mild purging as pores begin to unclog.
48% noticed visible reduction in blemishes*Visible Improvement
Noticeable reduction in blackheads and active breakouts. Skin texture begins to smooth out and pores appear less congested.
70% saw clearer skinSignificant Results
Marked improvement in overall skin clarity. Fewer new breakouts, reduced shine throughout the day, and smoother skin texture.
85% reported satisfactionMaintenance & Prevention
Continued use helps maintain clear skin and prevent future breakouts. Skin barrier stays healthy thanks to ceramides and niacinamide.
Consistent results with daily useRatings by platform
9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively reduces blemishes and blackheads
- Doesn't strip or over-dry the skin
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Contains barrier-supporting ceramides
- Dermatologist-developed formula
- Great value - a little goes a long way
- Pleasant gel-to-foam texture
- Visible results within 1-2 weeks
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Can cause initial purging period
- May be too drying for very dry skin
- Some experience tightness after cleansing
- Pump mechanism can be finicky
- Not miracle cure for severe cystic acne
- Results require consistent daily use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also contains 2% salicylic acid plus zinc for oil control. Simpler formula without ceramides but equally effective for blemish-prone skin. Slightly more affordable.
Contains 2% salicylic acid in a traditional foaming wash. Lacks ceramides and niacinamide so may be more drying. Good for severe oiliness.
Budget-friendly option with same 2% salicylic acid concentration. Contains witch hazel for additional astringent benefits. Lacks ceramides.
Same brand with similar SA formula but lower salicylic acid concentration. Better suited for dry or sensitive skin needing gentler exfoliation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C).
Pump bottle dispenser for hygienic, mess-free application
236ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Available in travel-friendly sizes or decant into smaller container.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), topical products containing 2% or less salicylic acid are generally considered safe during pregnancy due to minimal absorption. However, always consult your healthcare provider before use. While breastfeeding, it's considered safe as topical salicylic acid is unlikely to appear in breast milk, but avoid applying to areas that may come into contact with your baby's skin or mouth.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate and coconut-derived ingredients (Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate) that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or products specifically formulated to be fungal acne safe.
Yes, but introduce gradually to avoid irritation. Since this cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid (a BHA), using additional BHA products may cause over-exfoliation. With retinol: Use the cleanser in the AM and retinol in the PM, or alternate days. With Vitamin C: Generally safe to use together; apply Vitamin C after cleansing. With AHAs: Use caution and don't layer multiple acids at once. Start with the cleanser alone, then slowly introduce other actives once your skin has adjusted.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically formulated to control excess oil, unclog pores, and reduce blemishes while maintaining the skin barrier with ceramides. Those with sensitive skin can also use it but should start with once-daily application. It may be too drying for very dry skin types - if you have dry acne-prone skin, consider using only in the PM or following with a rich moisturizer.
Most users notice initial improvements within 1-2 weeks, with significant results appearing by weeks 4-8. Clinical studies showed 48% of users noticed visible blemish reduction after just one week. Some users may experience initial "purging" (temporary increase in breakouts) as the salicylic acid brings existing clogs to the surface - this typically resolves within 2-4 weeks. Consistent daily use is key for best results.
Use this cleanser as the first step in your skincare routine (or second step if you double cleanse with an oil cleanser first). Apply to damp skin, massage for 30-60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and SPF (in the morning). Can be used both morning and evening, though those with sensitive or dry skin may prefer once-daily use.
No, this cleanser is non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's specifically formulated NOT to clog pores and is allergy-tested. In fact, it's designed to do the opposite - the 2% salicylic acid actively works to unclog pores by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and sebum that cause blockages.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Most users find the 236ml bottle lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use, as only a small amount is needed per wash.
Verdict: CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser is an excellent choice for oily and acne-prone skin types looking for effective yet gentle blemish control. The combination of 2% salicylic acid for acne-fighting power with barrier-supporting ceramides and soothing niacinamide sets it apart from harsher alternatives. While not suitable for fungal acne sufferers and may require adjustment for dry skin types, it delivers visible results for the majority of users within weeks. At its price point, it offers exceptional value backed by dermatologist development and thousands of positive reviews. A worthy staple in any acne-fighting skincare routine.
Browse related
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|