Calming Acne Salicylic Cleanser
Calming Acne Salicylic Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective low-pH gel cleanser formulated with 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA) to calm acne, control excess sebum, and clear clogged pores without stripping or drying your skin. Enriched with Centella Asiatica, Tea Tree, and Green Tea extracts for soothing, antibacterial benefits.
BHA Acne Control
0.5% Salicylic Acid (5,000ppm) penetrates pores to dissolve sebum, clear blackheads and whiteheads, and prevent future breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBHA Acne Control
0.5% Salicylic Acid (5,000ppm) penetrates pores to dissolve sebum, clear blackheads and whiteheads, and prevent future breakouts.
Calming Botanicals
Centella Asiatica, Green Tea, and Tea Tree extracts work synergistically to soothe inflammation and reduce redness.
Barrier Support
Ceramide NP, Hyaluronic Acid, and Beta-Glucan maintain moisture and strengthen the skin barrier during cleansing.
pH-Balanced Formula
Low pH gel formula maintains skin's natural acid mantle, preventing over-drying and irritation common with acne cleansers.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% salicylic acid. ACOG considers low-concentration topical salicylic acid safe, but consult your healthcare provider. Avoid during third trimester. Safe for breastfeeding when used on face only.
Contains Hydrogenated Lecithin and Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate which may feed Malassezia yeast in sensitive individuals. Patch test recommended if prone to fungal acne.
Dermatologically tested with hypoallergenic formula. Low pH prevents irritation. Fragrance-free and alcohol-free formulation.
Safe to use in the same routine. Apply retinol after cleansing once skin is dry. Start slowly if new to actives.
Since this is a wash-off product, it's safe with other actives. Apply leave-on acids and serums after cleansing.
BHA can increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using salicylic acid products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5% (5,000ppm)Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, unclog pores, and exfoliate dead skin cells. Also has anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin.
- FDA Recognized: 0.5-2% concentrations approved for OTC acne treatment
- Mechanism: Breaks down keratin to prevent pore blockage and reduces P. acnes bacteria
- Research: Proven effective for comedonal acne, blackheads, and whiteheads
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this powerhouse botanical contains centelloids (asiaticoside, madecassoside) that calm inflammation, promote wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and soothes irritated, acne-prone skin
- Wound Healing: Promotes collagen synthesis to help fade acne scars
- Barrier Support: Strengthens skin barrier function
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) ExtractProven
Rich in EGCG polyphenols with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps regulate sebum production and protect against environmental damage.
- Antioxidant: EGCG neutralizes free radicals and protects skin cells
- Sebum Control: Studies show reduced oil production with topical green tea
- Anti-bacterial: Helps fight acne-causing bacteria
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) ExtractProven
Natural antibacterial and antifungal ingredient clinically proven to fight acne. Works similarly to benzoyl peroxide but with less irritation.
- Clinical Evidence: 5% tea tree oil shown comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne
- Antimicrobial: Effective against P. acnes and other skin pathogens
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and redness of pimples
Ceramide NP + Hyaluronic Acid + Beta-GlucanSupporting
A trio of hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients that counteract the potential drying effects of salicylic acid.
- Ceramide NP: Replenishes skin's natural lipid barrier
- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin
- Beta-Glucan: Soothes irritation and promotes wound healing
32 ingredients
Water, Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Coco-Glucoside, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Potassium Cocoate, Lauryl Glucoside, Pentylene Glycol, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Salicylic Acid (5,000ppm), Decylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Fructooligosaccharides, Beta-Glucan, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide NP, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser after oil cleanser (PM) or as your only cleanser (AM). Can be used twice daily. If using with other actives like retinol, apply them after cleansing on dry skin.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face to prepare your skin for cleansing.
Dispense & Lather
Take a small amount (about a quarter-sized) and lather between your palms with water to create a soft foam.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face in gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on oily/acne-prone areas like T-zone.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel - don't rub!
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 gentle acne control without harsh, stripping ingredients
- You prefer clean, vegan, fragrance-free skincare
- You need a low-pH cleanser that maintains skin barrier
- You experience hormonal or occasional acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (may need richer cleanser)
- You have active eczema, rosacea, or severely compromised skin barrier
- You need higher-strength BHA for severe acne (consider 2% leave-on)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (some ingredients may trigger)
- You're in your third trimester of pregnancy
- You're allergic to salicylates or aspirin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Controls excess sebum, unclogs pores, and leaves skin feeling clean without over-stripping. Ideal for daily use.
Works well across T-zone and cheeks. Low pH and hydrating ingredients prevent dry patches while treating oily areas.
Specifically formulated for acne concerns. BHA + soothing botanicals address breakouts while calming inflammation.
Gentle enough for most sensitive skin types thanks to low pH and calming ingredients. Patch test first if very reactive.
Use sparingly (PM only) and follow with rich moisturizer. Hydrating ingredients help but BHA can be drying for very dry skin.
Great for maintaining clear pores and preventing occasional breakouts. Can use daily without issues.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEInitial Adjustment
Skin feels cleaner and less oily after each wash. Some may experience mild purging as clogged pores clear. Existing pimples may surface faster.
85% noticed cleaner feelVisible Improvement
Reduced blackheads and whiteheads. Pores appear smaller and less congested. New breakouts become less frequent. Skin texture smooths out.
70% saw fewer breakoutsClear Skin Benefits
Significant reduction in acne and oiliness. Skin looks clearer and more balanced. Post-acne marks begin to fade with continued use of the full routine.
80% achieved clearer skinMaintenance Phase
Continued use maintains clear, balanced skin. Works best as part of a consistent skincare routine. Many users report fewer hormonal breakouts.
90% would repurchaseRatings by platform
930+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective - doesn't strip or dry out skin
- Low pH formula maintains healthy skin barrier
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and clean formulation
- No artificial fragrance - great for sensitive noses
- Helps with blackheads and clogged pores
- Contains soothing ingredients like Centella and Tea Tree
- Affordable K-beauty option for acne-prone skin
- Skin feels clean but not tight after use
Criticized
- Small bottle size (100ml) for the price
- May cause purging in the first few weeks
- Not strong enough for severe cystic acne
- Limited availability in some countries
- Some may need additional moisturizer
- Results take 4-8 weeks for some users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar K-beauty BHA cleanser with 0.5% salicylic acid and tea tree. Slightly higher pH and contains fragrance. Larger 150ml size offers better value.
Western alternative with 2% salicylic acid and zinc. Stronger formula but may be more drying. Great for those needing more potent BHA action.
Drugstore option with salicylic acid + ceramides + niacinamide. Different texture (gel vs foam). Larger 8oz/237ml size. Contains PHA for extra exfoliation.
Dermatologist-favorite with 2% salicylic acid + LHA. Stronger formula, French pharmacy brand. Contains menthol which some may find irritating.
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 cap tightly closed. Room temperature is ideal.
Squeezable tube with flip-top cap. FSC-certified paper box with soy-based ink printing.
Yes - 100ml is under TSA carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 0.5% salicylic acid. According to ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), low-concentration topical salicylic acid in wash-off products is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, it's best to avoid during the third trimester and consult your healthcare provider. For breastfeeding, it's safe when used on the face only - just avoid applying on the chest area where baby may come into contact.
This cleanser contains some ingredients that may not be ideal for fungal acne, including Hydrogenated Lecithin and Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, which could potentially feed Malassezia yeast in sensitive individuals. If you have confirmed fungal acne, we recommend patch testing first or choosing a cleanser specifically formulated to be fungal acne safe. The salicylic acid itself can help with fungal acne, but the overall formula may not be optimal.
Yes! Since this is a wash-off cleanser, it's safe to use with other actives. The salicylic acid rinses off, so it won't cause excessive irritation when combined with leave-on products. For best results: use this cleanser, pat dry, then apply your vitamin C (AM) or retinol (PM). If using leave-on AHA/BHA, you can alternate days or use them at different times (BHA cleanser AM, AHA toner PM). Always listen to your skin and reduce frequency if you notice irritation.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically formulated to control excess sebum, clear clogged pores, and calm breakouts. Those with sensitive skin can also benefit thanks to the low pH formula and soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica. However, if you have very dry skin, use sparingly (PM only) and always follow with a good moisturizer.
Results timeline varies by individual: Week 1-2: Skin feels cleaner, less oily; some may experience mild purging. Week 2-4: Noticeable reduction in blackheads and whiteheads; fewer new breakouts. Week 4-8: Significant improvement in overall skin clarity and texture. For best results, use consistently twice daily as part of a complete skincare routine including moisturizer and sunscreen.
This cleanser is your first step (or second step if double cleansing). AM Routine: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. PM Routine: Oil Cleanser (if wearing makeup/sunscreen) → This Cleanser → Toner → Serum/Treatment → Moisturizer. If using retinol, apply it after cleansing on completely dry skin.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's specifically formulated to be non-comedogenic and actually helps unclog pores with salicylic acid. The gentle surfactants (Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate, Coco-Glucoside) cleanse without leaving pore-clogging residue. It's oil-free and rinses clean, making it safe for acne-prone skin.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best efficacy. The 100ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice daily use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight with the cap tightly closed. If you notice any changes in smell, color, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: Face Republic Calming Acne Salicylic Cleanser is an excellent K-beauty option for those seeking gentle yet effective acne control. The combination of 0.5% salicylic acid with soothing botanicals like Centella Asiatica and Tea Tree makes it stand out from harsher acne cleansers. The low pH formula maintains skin barrier health while the vegan, fragrance-free formulation suits sensitive skin. Best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. While the 100ml size is modest, the quality ingredients and gentle efficacy make it worth the investment for those who want to treat breakouts without compromising skin health.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|