Ceramide Blemish Foaming Cleanser
Ceramide Blemish Foaming Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective gel-to-foam cleanser formulated with 5 skin-identical ceramides, 2% salicylic acid, and niacinamide to deeply cleanse blemish-prone skin while strengthening your protective barrier. Removes impurities, excess oil, and dirt without stripping or over-drying.
5 Skin-Identical Ceramides
Ceramide NP, NG, AS, EOP & AP work together to strengthen and repair your skin's natural barrier while cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5 Skin-Identical Ceramides
Ceramide NP, NG, AS, EOP & AP work together to strengthen and repair your skin's natural barrier while cleansing.
2% Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Oil-soluble exfoliant penetrates pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and impurities that cause breakouts.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Helps regulate sebum production, minimizes pore appearance, and reduces redness and inflammation.
Hyaluronic Acid & Glycerin
Provides hydration to prevent the tight, stripped feeling common with acne cleansers.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid. ACOG considers topical SA up to 2% generally safe, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Low-concentration topical salicylic acid is unlikely to be absorbed in significant amounts. Avoid applying to areas that contact baby.
Contains Propylene Glycol Laurate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, and PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Scored 1/5 - formulated with gentle, non-pore-clogging surfactants and barrier-supporting ceramides.
Fragrance-free, uses mild surfactants (Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate) and contains soothing oat amino acids.
Salicylic acid is related to aspirin. If you have aspirin sensitivity, patch test first or consult a dermatologist.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that cause breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads.
- Mechanism: Dissolves keratin plugs and reduces hyperkeratinization
- Studies: Proven effective for mild-to-moderate acne at 0.5-2% concentrations
- Benefit: Also has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness
Ceramide Complex (5 Types)Proven
A blend of five skin-identical ceramides (NP, NG, AS, EOP, AP) that make up ~50% of your skin's barrier. Replenishes lipids lost during cleansing.
- Ceramide NP: Most abundant in skin, restores moisture retention
- Ceramide AP: Supports barrier function and reduces trans-epidermal water loss
- Ceramide EOP: Helps maintain skin flexibility and resilience
Niacinamide ~3-5%Proven
A form of Vitamin B3 that regulates sebum production, strengthens the skin barrier by boosting ceramide synthesis, and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Sebum Control: Reduces oiliness without over-drying
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation
- Barrier Support: Increases natural ceramide production in skin
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, providing hydration during the cleansing process.
- Hydration: Draws moisture to the skin surface
- Plumping: Reduces the appearance of fine lines
- Barrier: Helps prevent post-cleanse tightness
Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino AcidsGentle
A mild, oat-derived surfactant that provides gentle cleansing while soothing sensitive and irritated skin.
- Source: Derived from natural oat proteins
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory and skin-calming properties
31 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Ceramide NP, Ceramide NG, Ceramide AS, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide AP, Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Glycosyl Trehalose, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Propylene Glycol Laurate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Chlorphenesin, Dextrin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your routine. Can be used as a second cleanser after oil cleansing for double-cleansing method.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water to prepare skin for cleansing.
Dispense 2-3 Pumps
Apply the gel cleanser to damp hands or directly onto skin.
Massage Gently
Work into a lather using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on oily/blemish-prone areas.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with breakouts, blackheads, or clogged pores
- You want a budget-friendly CeraVe SA Cleanser alternative
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare
- You need a gentle yet effective cleanser for sensitive, acne-prone skin
- You want to strengthen your skin barrier while treating blemishes
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid all salicylic acid
- You have very dry skin that's not acne-prone
- You have aspirin sensitivity or allergy
- You're looking for a makeup-removing cleanser (use oil cleanser first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Salicylic acid controls excess sebum while ceramides prevent over-stripping. Leaves skin fresh without greasiness.
Balances oily T-zone while gentle enough for drier cheeks. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production across all zones.
2% salicylic acid actively targets breakouts and prevents new ones. Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores.
Fragrance-free with mild surfactants and oat amino acids. Start with once daily use. Patch test recommended.
Ceramides and hyaluronic acid help, but salicylic acid may be too drying. Consider the non-blemish version instead.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Initial Cleansing Benefits
Skin feels cleaner and fresher after each use. May experience mild purging as salicylic acid brings impurities to the surface. Reduced surface oiliness.
85% noticed cleaner feelReduced Breakouts & Clarity
Purging subsides. Noticeable reduction in new breakouts. Blackheads begin to clear. Skin texture starts improving.
70% saw fewer breakoutsClearer, Balanced Skin
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Pores appear smaller. Oil production better regulated. Skin barrier feels stronger.
78% reported clearer skinLong-Term Maintenance
Continued use maintains clear skin. Breakouts are less frequent and heal faster. Skin barrier remains healthy and resilient.
82% continued daily useRatings by platform
850+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value - large 400ml size at budget price
- Effectively reduces breakouts and clears pores
- Doesn't leave skin feeling stripped or tight
- Fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin
- 5 ceramides protect barrier while treating acne
- Comparable to CeraVe SA at fraction of cost
- Vegan and cruelty-free formulation
- Foams nicely despite being "low foaming"
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- May cause initial purging (2-4 weeks)
- Too drying for very dry skin types
- Contains some potential irritants for ultra-sensitive skin
- Pump dispenser can be inconsistent
- Not widely available outside UK
- Some find texture less luxurious than premium brands
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical formula with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. No salicylic acid, so better for those avoiding BHA or with fungal acne.
Contains 2% salicylic acid with zinc. Simpler formula without ceramides. More targeted for acne but less barrier-supportive.
Drugstore classic with 2% salicylic acid. More aggressive formula without ceramides. May be more drying but widely available.
Salicylic acid cleanser with soothing ingredients. Gel-cream texture, fungal acne safe option. Less ceramide focus but gentle formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place (15-25°C) away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep cap tightly sealed after each use.
Pump bottle dispenser (400ml)
No - exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical salicylic acid up to 2% generally safe during pregnancy, but we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use. For breastfeeding, topical low-concentration salicylic acid is generally considered safe as absorption is minimal, but avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby.
Unfortunately, no. This cleanser contains Propylene Glycol Laurate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, and PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, which are ingredients that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Paula's Choice CLEAR Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Cleanser.
Yes, but introduce slowly. Since this cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), be cautious when layering with other actives. For retinol: use cleanser AM, retinol PM. For vitamin C: safe to use together. For AHA/BHA leave-on products: may be too much exfoliation - alternate days or use only one BHA product. Always listen to your skin and reduce frequency if irritation occurs.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The 2% salicylic acid effectively controls sebum and clears pores, while the 5 ceramides prevent over-drying. It's also suitable for sensitive skin due to its fragrance-free formula and mild surfactants, though patch testing is recommended. Not ideal for very dry skin or those with fungal acne.
Most users notice cleaner, fresher skin immediately after first use. Visible reduction in breakouts typically occurs within 2-4 weeks. You may experience initial purging during weeks 1-2 as salicylic acid brings impurities to the surface - this is normal and temporary. Significant improvement in skin clarity and texture usually appears by weeks 4-8 with consistent twice-daily use.
This cleanser should be the first step in your routine (or second step if you oil cleanse first). Use it morning and evening before applying toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It works well in a double-cleansing routine - use an oil-based cleanser first to remove makeup/sunscreen, then follow with this foaming cleanser.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's formulated with gentle, non-pore-clogging surfactants and contains salicylic acid which actively helps clear pores rather than clog them. The ceramides and other ingredients are carefully chosen to support skin health without contributing to breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 400ml bottle typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use, so shelf life shouldn't be a concern for most users.
Verdict: Face Facts Ceramide Blemish Foaming Cleanser delivers exceptional value as a budget-friendly alternative to premium ceramide cleansers like CeraVe. With its combination of 2% salicylic acid, 5 ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, it effectively tackles breakouts while supporting skin barrier health - a winning formula for oily and acne-prone skin types. The fragrance-free, vegan formulation makes it suitable for sensitive skin, though those with fungal acne should look elsewhere. At nearly half the price of competitors with a generous 400ml size, this UK brand offers serious skincare at an accessible price point. Minor drawbacks include the pump dispenser quality and initial purging period, but for the price-to-performance ratio, it's hard to beat.
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 7 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|