Cleanance Acne Medicated Clearing Gel Cleanser
Cleanance Acne Medicated Clearing Gel Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective 2% salicylic acid gel cleanser formulated by French dermatological experts at Avène for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. Clears blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads while preserving the skin barrier with soothing Avène Thermal Spring Water and microbiome-supporting Lactobacillus ferment lysate. Suitable for face and body use.
Medicated Acne Treatment
Contains 2% salicylic acid as an FDA-recognized OTC acne active to clear and prevent blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMedicated Acne Treatment
Contains 2% salicylic acid as an FDA-recognized OTC acne active to clear and prevent blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Barrier-Friendly Surfactants
Formulated with gentle cleansing agents like Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate and Coco-Glucoside that cleanse without stripping or over-drying.
Microbiome Support
Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate helps preserve the balance and diversity of the skin’s microbiota for healthier skin over time.
Soothing Thermal Spring Water
Backed by 150+ clinical studies, Avène Thermal Spring Water calms, softens, and soothes sensitive and irritated skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid (BHA). ACOG considers topical SA at 2% or less acceptable during pregnancy, but consult your OB-GYN before use. This is a rinse-off product with short skin contact time.
Topical salicylic acid at 2% in a wash-off cleanser is unlikely to be absorbed in significant amounts or appear in breast milk. Avoid applying near the chest area.
Contains several potential triggers including Glyceryl Laurate, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, and Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate (a fermented ingredient). Not recommended for fungal acne.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Dermatologist-tested and formulated to minimize the risk of clogged pores and breakouts.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, soap-free, dye-free, and alcohol-free. Formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
Avoid using with other topical acne medications simultaneously to reduce the risk of skin irritation and dryness. Introduce one active product at a time.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve oil, dead skin cells, and debris. The gold standard OTC active for acne treatment, recognized by the FDA.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, exfoliates inside the pore lining to clear blackheads and prevent new breakouts
- Efficacy: Clinically proven to reduce acne lesion count and prevent formation of new comedones
- Concentration: 2% is the maximum OTC strength and the most commonly recommended by dermatologists
Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate <1%Promising
A postbiotic derived from Lactobacillus fermentation that supports the skin’s natural microbiome. Helps maintain a balanced, diverse microbial ecosystem on the skin surface.
- Function: Preserves microbiome balance and diversity, which can be disrupted by cleansing and acne treatments
- Research: Studies suggest postbiotics can strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation associated with acne
Betaine & Saccharide Isomerate <2%Proven
A hydrating duo that mitigates the irritation caused by surfactants while retaining moisture in the skin. Betaine is a natural humectant, and saccharide isomerate provides long-lasting hydration by binding to the skin.
- Betaine: Osmoprotectant that shields skin cells from surfactant-induced stress and dehydration
- Saccharide Isomerate: Plant-derived sugar complex that bonds to keratin for up to 72 hours of continuous hydration
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate 5-10%Proven
A mild, coconut-derived surfactant known as the “baby foam” due to its extreme gentleness. Provides effective cleansing without disrupting the skin barrier or stripping essential lipids.
- Gentleness: One of the mildest surfactants available, significantly less irritating than SLS/SLES
- pH-Friendly: Works well at skin-compatible pH levels, supporting a healthy acid mantle
25 ingredients
Active: Salicylic Acid (2.0%). Inactive: Water (Aqua), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Propanediol, Stearyl Alcohol, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Betaine, Glyceryl Laurate, Sodium Chloride, Glycerin, Cetearyl Olivate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Benzoate, Saccharide Isomerate, Sorbitan Olivate, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Acrylates Copolymer.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first step morning and evening. If double cleansing at night, use an oil cleanser first, then follow with this gel cleanser. Always apply sunscreen in the morning when using salicylic acid.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Skin
Splash your face and/or body with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can strip and irritate acne-prone skin.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a small amount onto your palms and gently massage into damp skin using circular motions. Avoid the eye area. A little goes a long way.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. Pat dry gently with a clean towel — do not rub.
Follow Up
Apply your toner, serum, and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen (SPF 30+) as salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin with frequent breakouts
- You want a medicated cleanser that treats and prevents acne
- You have sensitive skin and need a gentle yet effective acne wash
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean-formula products
- You need a cleanser for both face and body acne
- You value dermatologist-recommended French pharmacy brands
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — contains triggers
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs extra moisture
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid salicylic acid entirely
- You want a high-foaming, lathering wash experience
- You are on a strict budget — larger, cheaper options exist
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid controls excess sebum and unclogs pores, while gentle surfactants prevent over-stripping.
Designed specifically for this skin type. The 2% BHA clears and prevents breakouts while non-comedogenic formula won’t worsen acne.
Works well on the oily T-zone. May slightly dry out cheeks, so follow with a hydrating moisturizer on drier areas.
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic with soothing thermal spring water. Start with once-daily use to gauge tolerance. Patch test recommended.
Salicylic acid can be drying for already-dry skin. Use only once daily and pair with a rich, barrier-repairing moisturizer.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Initial Adjustment
Skin may experience mild dryness or a brief purging period as salicylic acid begins unclogging pores. Existing blemishes may surface before clearing.
60% noticed cleaner-feeling skinVisible Clearing Begins
Blackheads and whiteheads start diminishing. Skin texture feels smoother and less congested. Excess oiliness is noticeably reduced throughout the day.
70% reported fewer breakoutsSignificant Improvement
Consistent use leads to a marked reduction in acne lesions. Pores appear refined and skin looks clearer and more balanced. New blemishes form less frequently.
80% saw clearer skin overallMaintained Results
Ongoing daily use helps maintain clear skin and prevent recurrence. Skin barrier stays intact thanks to the gentle, microbiome-supporting formula.
85% would repurchaseRatings by platform
250+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective 2% salicylic acid clears breakouts without harsh over-drying
- Extremely gentle formula suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic
- Works on both face and body acne
- Microbiome-friendly with Lactobacillus ferment lysate
- Creamy gel texture feels comforting, not stripping
- Especially praised for adult acne — doesn’t overdry mature skin
- HSA/FSA eligible
Criticized
- Can be drying if used twice daily, especially for non-oily skin types
- 200ml bottle is smaller than competitors at a similar price point
- Product has been discontinued on the Avène US website
- Does not produce a rich, sudsy lather — some users prefer more foam
- Not fungal acne safe due to multiple Malassezia-feeding ingredients
- Some users reported initial purging period during the first 1–2 weeks
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also features 2% salicylic acid but adds niacinamide, ceramides, and oil-absorbing clay. Larger 8 oz bottle at a lower price. Lacks microbiome support and thermal spring water.
Contains 2% salicylic acid at a fraction of the price. However, uses harsher surfactants and contains fragrance. Less suitable for sensitive skin than the Avène formula.
Another French pharmacy 2% SA cleanser with added Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) and glycerin. Very similar approach but uses SLS as a surfactant, which may be more drying for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed after each use.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Opaque plastic protects the salicylic acid formula from light degradation.
Yes — the 200ml / 6.7 oz size exceeds carry-on limits (100ml), but the tube format is leak-resistant and easy to pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical salicylic acid at 2% or less acceptable during pregnancy, especially in wash-off products with minimal skin contact time. However, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding salicylic acid entirely during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, topical SA in a rinse-off cleanser is generally considered safe as absorption is minimal. Always consult your doctor before using any medicated skincare during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this cleanser is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Glyceryl Laurate (a fatty acid ester), Stearyl Alcohol (a fatty alcohol), Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate (olive-derived esters), and Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate (a fermented ingredient). If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or a benzoyl peroxide wash.
Since this is a wash-off cleanser with short skin contact time, it can generally be used alongside other actives. However, if you experience irritation, alternate usage: use the Avène cleanser in the evening and a gentle non-medicated cleanser in the morning, then apply your retinol or vitamin C in separate routines. Avoid layering multiple BHA/AHA leave-on products on the same day you use this cleanser twice, as it could lead to over-exfoliation and dryness.
This cleanser is specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. It excels at controlling excess sebum while being gentle enough for reactive skin types. It also works well for combination skin when used in the oily T-zone. Those with dry skin may find it slightly drying and should limit use to once daily with a rich moisturizer afterward.
Most users notice skin feeling cleaner and less oily within the first 1–2 weeks. Visible reduction in blackheads and breakouts typically begins around weeks 2–4. Significant, sustained improvement in acne and skin clarity is commonly reported by weeks 4–8 of consistent twice-daily use. You may experience a brief purging phase in the first week as salicylic acid brings existing congestion to the surface.
This is your cleansing step — the very first step in your routine, both morning and evening. If you double cleanse at night (recommended if you wear sunscreen or makeup), use an oil-based cleanser first, then follow with this gel cleanser as your second cleanse. After rinsing, proceed with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
No. This cleanser is non-comedogenic and rated 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. It has been dermatologist-tested and formulated specifically to avoid clogging pores. In fact, the 2% salicylic acid actively works to unclog and clear existing pore congestion. It is free from known pore-clogging oils and heavy silicones.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the salicylic acid formula from light degradation. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly closed between uses. When used twice daily, the 200ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months.
Verdict: Avène Cleanance Acne Medicated Clearing Gel Cleanser is a thoughtfully formulated French pharmacy acne wash that delivers effective 2% salicylic acid treatment through an unusually gentle, barrier-friendly base. It stands out from drugstore competitors by using mild surfactants (SCI instead of SLS), supporting the skin microbiome with postbiotics, and including soothing Thermal Spring Water — making it one of the best options for people withsensitive, acne-prone skin who find most acne washes too harsh. The main trade-offs are its higher price-per-ounce compared to CeraVe and La Roche-Posay, its smaller bottle size, and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. If gentle, effective acne cleansing is your priority and your budget allows it, this is an excellent choice.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|