Cleanance Comedomed Peeling
Cleanance Comedomed Peeling
Product Description
An intensive peeling cream that combines 6% Glycolic Acid, 0.1% Retinaldehyde, and patented Comedoclastin™ to rapidly reduce pimples, acne marks, and dark spots. Clinically proven to reduce blemish volume by 92% in 15 days.
✨ Texture & Feel
Retinoid Booster Technology
Patented combination of Retinaldehyde + Comedoclastin™ that's 50% more effective than Retinaldehyde alone for faster blemish reduction.
Triple-Action Formula
Combines AHA exfoliation, retinoid renewal, and sebum regulation for comprehensive acne treatment in one product.
Avène Thermal Spring Water
Soothing thermal water with natural minerals calms irritation and helps sensitive skin tolerate active ingredients better.
Fast-Acting Results
Visible reduction in pimple size and redness from day one, with 92% reduction in blemish volume within 15 days of use.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Not recommended. Contains Retinaldehyde (Vitamin A derivative). Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Not safe. Contains Polysorbate 60, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and fatty alcohols that may feed malassezia yeast.
Formulated with Avène Thermal Spring Water to soothe. Start with every other day use and gradually increase frequency.
Contains photosensitizing ingredients. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day. Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Can be used alongside most acne medications. Not recommended with oral isotretinoin (Accutane) or other retinoids.
Suitable for adults and adolescents with acne-prone skin. Not recommended for children under 12.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧪 Glycolic Acid 6% Proven
The gold-standard AHA for exfoliation. Removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and stimulates cell renewal for a "new skin" effect. Has the smallest molecular size among AHAs for deeper penetration.
- Cell Renewal: Promotes turnover of dead skin cells to reveal fresher skin beneath
- Pore Clearing: Keratolytic action helps dissolve debris blocking pores
- Collagen Boost: Studies show glycolic acid stimulates collagen production over time
⚡ Retinaldehyde (Retinal) 0.1% Proven
The most effective over-the-counter retinoid, just one conversion step away from prescription-strength retinoic acid. Faster acting than retinol but gentler than tretinoin.
- Efficacy: Studies show retinaldehyde works up to 11x faster than retinol
- Anti-Acne: Reduces sebum production and prevents comedone formation
- Depigmenting: Helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne marks
🌿 Comedoclastin™ (Milk Thistle Extract) 7% Patented
Avène's patented active from Silybum Marianum (milk thistle) seeds. Acts at the root cause of acne by preventing comedone formation and regulating sebum production.
- Sebum Control: Regulates excess oil production without drying the skin
- Anti-Comedogenic: Blocks the transformation of sebaceous follicles into blackheads
- Prevention: Limits recurrence of new blemishes when used consistently
💧 Avène Thermal Spring Water Base Soothing
Naturally mineral-rich thermal water sourced from the Sainte-Odile spring in France. Known for its soothing, anti-irritating, and softening properties on sensitive skin.
- Mineral Content: Contains silicates, bicarbonates, and trace elements
- Soothing: Clinically proven to reduce skin sensitivity and inflammation
- Buffer: Helps skin tolerate potent actives like glycolic acid and retinaldehyde
22 ingredients
Avene Thermal Spring Water (Avene Aqua), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isododecane, Glycolic Acid, Isopropyl Alcohol, PEG-6, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Water (Aqua), Sodium Hydroxide, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Polysorbate 60, Red 33 (CI 17200), Retinal, Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Tocopherol.
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use in PM routine only. Apply to clean, dry skin before moisturizer. Maximum 15 consecutive days per treatment cycle.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry completely. The product works best on clean, dry skin.
Apply at Night
In the evening, apply a small amount directly to blemishes or spread a thin layer over the entire face, avoiding the eye area.
Reapply if Needed
For stubborn blemishes, you can reapply 1-2 times during the day as a targeted spot treatment.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait for the product to absorb, then apply a hydrating moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Use Sunscreen Daily
Essential: Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning. This product increases sun sensitivity.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone or oily skin with recurring breakouts
- You want to reduce pimples, blackheads, and post-acne marks
- You're looking for an intensive short-term treatment for flare-ups
- You want French pharmacy quality with clinical backing
- You prefer fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas
- You can commit to daily sunscreen use
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're already using prescription retinoids or strong acids
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen application
- You're taking oral isotretinoin (Accutane)
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Comedoclastin™ regulates sebum production while glycolic acid clears pores. Matte finish without added shine.
Works well for T-zone breakouts. Apply to oily areas or use as targeted spot treatment on blemishes.
Specifically designed for this skin type. Triple-action formula targets all aspects of acne: excess oil, clogged pores, and inflammation.
Avène Thermal Water helps buffer active ingredients. Start every other day and build tolerance. May cause mild tingling initially.
Use only as spot treatment on breakouts, not full-face. Follow with rich moisturizer. May cause dryness with extended use.
Retinaldehyde offers anti-aging benefits alongside acne treatment. Bonus: helps with fine lines and uneven texture.
📈 Results Timeline
Immediate Reduction
Visible decrease in pimple redness and size. Slight tingling sensation is normal. Skin may feel smoother to the touch.
85% noticed improvementAccelerated Healing
Blemishes begin to flatten and dry out. New breakouts may be prevented. Some users experience mild peeling as cell turnover increases.
78% reported fewer new blemishesClearer Complexion
Significant reduction in active acne. Post-inflammatory marks start to fade. Skin texture appears smoother and more refined.
82% saw clearer skinMaximum Results
Clinical studies show 92% reduction in blemish volume. Skin appears cleaner with reduced redness. End of treatment cycle recommended.
92% reduction in blemish volume⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Fast-acting results visible from day one
- Clinically proven 92% blemish reduction
- Contains powerful retinaldehyde (stronger than retinol)
- Non-comedogenic, won't clog pores
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Avène Thermal Water soothes sensitive skin
- Fades post-acne marks and dark spots
❌ Criticized
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Maximum 15-day use limit per cycle
- Can cause dryness and peeling
- Increases sun sensitivity significantly
- Higher price than drugstore options
- Initial alcohol scent may be off-putting
- Small tube size for the price
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Higher acid concentration (30% vs 6%) but no retinaldehyde. Use as a 10-minute mask weekly. More intense exfoliation at a fraction of the price.
Similar glycolic acid strength (8% vs 6%) with soothing botanicals. Leave-on daily formula. No retinoid but excellent for texture and tone.
Different actives (Niacinamide + LHA) but similar anti-blemish results. More suitable for daily long-term use without 15-day limit.
Contains encapsulated retinol (weaker than retinal) with niacinamide. Gentler option for retinoid beginners. No glycolic acid.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Avène Cleanance Comedomed Peeling
~$28The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2%
$8.90Paula's Choice 8% AHA Gel
$34.00La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+
$30.00📦 Storage & Shelf Life
6 months after opening. The retinaldehyde can degrade with exposure to air and light over time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C / 59-77°F).
Opaque tube with twist-off cap. The orange color comes from the retinaldehyde active ingredient.
Yes, 40ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Keep away from extreme temperatures during travel.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
No, this product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains Retinaldehyde (0.1%), a Vitamin A derivative. While topical retinoids are generally considered lower risk than oral forms, most dermatologists and health organizations advise avoiding all retinoids during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider for pregnancy-safe acne alternatives like azelaic acid or niacinamide.
No, this product is not safe for fungal acne. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast: Polysorbate 60, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and fatty alcohols (Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol). If you have fungal acne, look for alternatives without these triggers, such as Paula's Choice 8% AHA Gel or products specifically labeled fungal-acne safe.
This product already contains both glycolic acid (AHA) and retinaldehyde, so avoid layering additional retinoids or strong acids to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. Do not use with other retinol products, tretinoin, or concentrated AHA/BHA treatments. Vitamin C can be used in your morning routine (this product is for PM use), but introduce slowly and watch for sensitivity. If you experience redness, peeling, or stinging, reduce frequency or alternate products on different days.
This product is best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically formulated for those experiencing breakouts, pimples, blackheads, and post-acne marks. Sensitive skin can use it with caution (start every other day). It's less suitable for dry or eczema-prone skin, though it can be used as a targeted spot treatment. Adults and adolescents with hormonal or persistent acne will see the most benefit.
Clinical studies show visible results from day one, with reduction in pimple redness and size. Most users notice significant improvement within 7 days. By day 15 (the maximum recommended treatment duration), studies show a 92% reduction in blemish volume. Individual results vary based on skin type, acne severity, and consistent use. The product is designed for intensive short-term treatment of flare-ups, not daily long-term maintenance.
Use this product in your evening routine only: (1) Cleanser, (2) Toner (optional), (3) This product, (4) Moisturizer. Apply to clean, dry skin. Wait for absorption before applying moisturizer. Do not use in the morning due to sun sensitivity. In your AM routine, use sunscreen SPF 30+ instead. Can also be used as a targeted spot treatment 1-2 times during the day on individual blemishes.
No, this product is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It's specifically designed for acne-prone skin and won't clog pores. In fact, the glycolic acid actively helps unclog existing pores, while Comedoclastin™ prevents new comedones from forming. The formula has been dermatologically tested and is suitable for oily, blemish-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 6 months. The retinaldehyde active ingredient can degrade with exposure to air and light over time, reducing efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize shelf life. The 40ml tube should last through multiple 15-day treatment cycles within this timeframe. Note the date you open the product to track its freshness.
Verdict: Avène Cleanance Comedomed Peeling is an impressive intensive treatment that delivers on its promise of fast-acting acne control. The combination of 6% glycolic acid, 0.1% retinaldehyde, and patented Comedoclastin™ creates a powerful triple-threat formula backed by clinical studies showing 92% blemish reduction. It's particularly well-suited for oily and acne-prone skin experiencing flare-ups. However, the 15-day usage limit, pregnancy restrictions, and incompatibility with fungal acne may be dealbreakers for some. At its price point, it's a premium French pharmacy option that works best as an intensive rescue treatment rather than a daily staple. If you're looking for fast results and can commit to strict sun protection, this is one of the most effective OTC acne treatments available.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isododecane
Solvent, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Isopropyl Alcohol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Antifoaming Agent
|
|