Cleanance Comedomed Concentrate Blemish Control Serum
Cleanance Comedomed Concentrate Blemish Control Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically-proven anti-blemish concentrate powered by patented Comedoclastin™ from milk thistle seeds. This minimalist 11-ingredient formula targets acne at its root, reducing visible spots in just 7 days while preventing future breakouts with 90% anti-relapse efficacy.
Patented Comedoclastin™ (25%)
Plant-based active from milk thistle seeds with 8 years of research. Targets microcomedones at the root to prevent future breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatented Comedoclastin™ (25%)
Plant-based active from milk thistle seeds with 8 years of research. Targets microcomedones at the root to prevent future breakouts.
Avène Thermal Spring Water (65%)
Clinically proven soothing and anti-irritating properties backed by 150+ studies. Calms and rebalances sensitive, reactive skin.
Fast-Acting Formula
Clinically shown to reduce visible spots in just 7 days with twice-daily application. 45% reduction in blemishes at 8 weeks.
Anti-Relapse Technology
90% of users experienced no relapse at 6 months. Long-lasting efficacy up to 1 year with consistent use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEOfficially confirmed safe by Avène. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and Sorbitan Isostearate which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have fungal acne.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula with high tolerance clinically demonstrated. Soothing thermal spring water base.
Second ingredient may be drying for very dry or dehydrated skin types. Most users tolerate well due to glycerin content.
Can be used alongside topical acne treatments. NOT recommended with oral isotretinoin (Accutane).
Non-comedogenic formula unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSComedoclastin™ (Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract) 25%Patented
A revolutionary plant-based active ingredient extracted from milk thistle seeds after 8 years of research by Pierre Fabre Laboratories. This patented compound targets the root cause of acne by acting on microcomedones before they become visible.
- Clinical Study: 45% reduction in blemishes after 8 weeks of twice-daily use (56 subjects)
- Mechanism: Regulates keratinocyte hyperproliferation and sebum quality
- Anti-Relapse: 90% of patients remained blemish-free at 6 months
- Published Research: Studies published in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2023)
Avène Thermal Spring Water 65%Proven
The signature ingredient of all Avène products, sourced from a natural spring in the south of France. Rich in unique minerals and trace elements with clinically proven soothing properties.
- Clinical Evidence: Over 150 studies demonstrating soothing and anti-irritating properties
- Mineral Profile: Low mineral content with balanced Ca/Mg ratio
- Function: Calms inflammation, reduces redness, and rebalances sensitive skin
Glycerin ~5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Helps counterbalance any potential drying effects from the isopropyl alcohol in the formula.
- Function: Maintains skin hydration and barrier function
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - will not clog pores
- Irritancy: 0 - suitable for all skin types including sensitive
SilicaSupporting
A mineral powder that absorbs excess oil and provides the product's mattifying finish. Helps control shine throughout the day without clogging pores.
- Function: Oil absorption and mattifying
- Texture: Contributes to lightweight, non-greasy feel
11 ingredients
Avene Thermal Spring Water (Avene Aqua), Isopropyl Alcohol, PEG-6, Glycerin, Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract, Silica, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Sorbitan Isostearate, Water (Aqua)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply morning and evening on cleansed skin. Can replace your moisturizer for oily skin types or layer under a lightweight moisturizer for combination/dry skin. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser like Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel. Pat dry with a clean towel. Ensure skin is completely clean before application.
Dispense One Pump
Press the pump once to get the perfect amount. The airless pump design ensures hygienic, precise dosing every time.
Apply to T-Zone First
Dab the product onto your forehead, nose, and chin. These areas typically have more oil production and breakouts.
Massage in Circular Motions
Spread across entire face using gentle, upward circular movements. This boosts absorption and stimulates circulation.
Repeat Twice Daily
Use every morning and evening for best results. Consistency is key - clinical results were achieved with twice-daily application.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with frequent breakouts
- You struggle with blackheads and recurring blemishes
- You want a simple, minimal-ingredient routine
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding with acne concerns
- You have sensitive, acne-prone skin that reacts to harsh treatments
- You prefer French pharmacy dermatological products
- You want clinically-proven results without prescription
- You're a teenager (12+) or adult with persistent acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're currently on oral isotretinoin (Accutane)
- You prefer products without any alcohol
- You need heavy-duty hydration along with acne treatment
- You want visible anti-aging benefits
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Lightweight gel absorbs instantly, silica mattifies excess oil. Won't add shine or greasiness. Designed specifically for this skin type.
Great for T-zone control. Apply all over or focus on oily areas. Layer with moisturizer on drier cheeks if needed.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, targets blemishes at the root. Clinical trials showed 45% blemish reduction.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Thermal spring water soothes. Some very sensitive types may notice initial tingling from alcohol - patch test recommended.
May not provide enough hydration alone. Layer with a heavier moisturizer on top. Glycerin helps but alcohol may feel slightly drying.
Effective for adult acne and hormonal breakouts. No anti-aging benefits but won't interfere with anti-aging routine. Add retinol at night if desired.
Results timeline
1 YEARVisible Spot Reduction
Clinical studies show significant reduction in visible blemishes within the first 7 days. Skin starts to look clearer and less inflamed. Mattifying effect noticeable immediately.
Clinically proven in 51 subjectsContinued Improvement
Fewer new breakouts appearing as Comedoclastin™ works on microcomedones below the surface. Skin texture becomes smoother, pores appear refined.
Progressive improvement observed45% Blemish Reduction
Comparative study showed 45% reduction in blemishes versus control group. Blackheads significantly reduced. Skin appears clearer and more balanced overall.
45% reduction vs control groupLong-Term Prevention
Anti-relapse efficacy kicks in. 90% of patients remained without significant blemish relapse. The vicious cycle of recurring acne is broken.
90% anti-relapse rateSustained Clear Skin
With consistent twice-daily use, 85% of patients maintained clear skin for a full year without needing additional treatments.
85% sustained efficacy at 12 monthsRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fast results - visible improvement in just 7 days
- Minimalist 11-ingredient formula
- Non-greasy, matte finish
- Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Works well under makeup
- Prevents new breakouts, not just treats existing
- Gentle enough for sensitive, reactive skin
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist recommended
- Long-lasting anti-relapse efficacy
Criticized
- Initial alcohol smell (disappears after application)
- Small 30ml bottle for the price
- Not fungal acne safe
- May be too drying for very dry skin
- Opaque pump makes it hard to see remaining product
- Limited availability in some regions
- No anti-aging or brightening benefits
- Some users report initial purging period
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Different mechanism (niacinamide vs milk thistle) but similar goals - sebum control and blemish reduction. Much more affordable but less clinically-targeted formula. No patented anti-relapse technology.
Uses retinol and salicylic acid instead of Comedoclastin™. More aggressive active ingredients. Not pregnancy safe but effective for stubborn acne. Contains ceramides for barrier support.
Chemical exfoliant approach with salicylic acid. Works by unclogging pores rather than targeting microcomedones. Not pregnancy safe. More suitable for blackhead-focused concerns.
Another French pharmacy option with similar lightweight texture and sebum-regulating claims. Uses salicylic acid and zinc. Not pregnancy safe but comparable efficacy for most users.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAvène Cleanance Comedomed
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the 12M symbol on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep below 25°C/77°F. No refrigeration needed.
Airless pump bottle. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination. One pump = one application dose.
Yes, under 100ml. TSA/airport compliant for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Avène officially confirms that Cleanance Comedomed is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Unlike many acne treatments that contain retinoids or salicylic acid, this formula uses plant-based Comedoclastin™ from milk thistle which has no known risks during pregnancy. The product is specifically marketed as suitable for pregnant women and young mothers seeking an effective yet gentle blemish treatment.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20 and Sorbitan Isostearate, which are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast and could worsen fungal acne. If you have confirmed or suspected fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), consider alternatives like Differin Adapalene Gel or products specifically formulated to be FA-safe.
Yes, but with caution. Since Comedomed contains alcohol, combining it with other potentially irritating actives may cause dryness or sensitivity. Start by alternating products (Comedomed in AM, actives in PM) and gradually introduce them together. Avoid using with oral isotretinoin (Accutane). Vitamin C can be used in the morning before Comedomed. For AHA/BHA, use on alternate nights until skin adjusts.
Cleanance Comedomed is specifically designed for oily and combination skin with acne tendency. It works excellently for those with blemishes, blackheads, and recurring breakouts. The lightweight, mattifying formula is ideal for T-zone control. Those with dry skin may find it insufficient for hydration alone and should layer with a moisturizer. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well due to the soothing thermal spring water base.
Clinical studies show visible reduction in blemishes within just 7 days of twice-daily use. By week 8, users experienced an average 45% reduction in blemishes compared to the control group. For anti-relapse benefits, consistent use for 6 months showed 90% of users remained blemish-free. Maximum benefits are seen with continued use up to 1 year.
Apply Cleanance Comedomed after cleansing and toning, but before heavier moisturizers or sunscreen. For oily skin, it can serve as a standalone moisturizer. For combination or dry skin, follow with a lightweight moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF. Use twice daily (morning and evening) for best results. It works well as a makeup base.
No, Cleanance Comedomed is non-comedogenic with a rating of 1/5 (very low). The formula is specifically designed to avoid pore-clogging ingredients. It actually helps unclog existing comedones through its patented Comedoclastin™ technology which targets microcomedones at their root. Clinical testing confirms it's suitable for acne-prone skin.
Cleanance Comedomed has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The airless pump design helps maintain product integrity and prevents contamination. One 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily full-face application. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for optimal preservation.
Verdict: Avène Cleanance Comedomed stands out as a clinically-effective, pregnancy-safe acne treatment with an impressively minimal ingredient list. The patented Comedoclastin™ technology delivers on its promises with visible results in just 7 days and exceptional anti-relapse efficacy. While the alcohol content and non-FA-safe formula limit its audience, it's an excellent choice for those with oily, acne-prone skin seeking a gentle yet powerful French pharmacy solution. The lightweight, mattifying texture works beautifully under makeup, and the dermatologist-backed clinical data provides confidence in long-term use. Best suited for those who prioritize simplicity and proven results over complex multi-active formulas.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Isopropyl Alcohol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Antifoaming Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-6
Humectant, Solvent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|