Clear Cell Salicylic Gel Cleanser
Clear Cell Salicylic Gel Cleanser
Product Description
A physician-formulated foaming gel cleanser with 2% salicylic acid that lathers away excess oil, shine, and impurities while gently exfoliating pore-clogging dead skin cells. Infused with a refreshing blend of mint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oils for an invigorating cleansing experience.
β¨ Texture & Feel
3-in-1 Formula
Cleanses, exfoliates, and tones in one step for simplified skincare routine.
BHA Exfoliation
Oil-soluble salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum and debris.
Botanical Complex
Tea tree, neem, witch hazel, and honey extract soothe and maintain healthy-looking skin.
Peptide Technology
Contains Oligopeptide-10 to help target problem areas without excessive irritation.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper limit recommended during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use. ACOG considers topical SA under 2% generally safe.
Considered safe for breastfeeding as topical salicylic acid has minimal systemic absorption. Avoid application to areas that contact baby's skin.
Safe for fungal acne-prone skin. Free from problematic esters and fatty acids that feed malassezia yeast. Contains tea tree oil which has anti-fungal properties.
Oil-free, lightweight gel formula with low comedogenic rating (1/5). Won't clog pores or contribute to breakouts.
Salicylic acid may increase sun sensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product.
Contains eucalyptus, tea tree, spearmint, and camphor oils. Patch test first if you have sensitivities to essential oils.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ͺ Salicylic Acid 2% Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores. Exfoliates dead skin cells, dissolves sebum, and has anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin.
- Mechanism: Penetrates oil-filled pores to break up keratin plugs and dissolve sebum
- Studies: FDA-approved OTC acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentrations
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, calms inflammation
πΏ Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia) Leaf Oil Proven
A well-researched essential oil with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Comparable to benzoyl peroxide for acne treatment but with fewer side effects.
- Studies: 5% tea tree oil gel shown effective against P. acnes bacteria
- Benefits: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, helps calm acne lesions
- Synergy: Works well with salicylic acid for enhanced acne-fighting action
πΈ Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Water Promising
A natural astringent that helps remove excess oil and tighten pores. Contains tannins with mild anti-inflammatory properties.
- Function: Natural astringent and toner
- Benefits: Controls oil, reduces inflammation, soothes skin
π Neem (Melia Azadirachta) Leaf Extract Promising
An Ayurvedic botanical with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally used for skin conditions including acne.
- Studies: Shown to have antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria
- Benefits: Purifies skin, reduces bacteria, calms irritation
π¬ Oligopeptide-10 Promising
An antimicrobial peptide that helps target acne-causing bacteria. Part of IMAGE's peptide complex technology.
- Function: Antimicrobial peptide for acne support
- Benefits: Targets problem areas, supports clear skin
36 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Butylene Glycol, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Salicylic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Laureth-10, Ammonium Sulfate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Ammonium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Mentha Viridis Leaf Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Sodium Chloride, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Alcohol, Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor) Bark Oil, Glyoxal, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Extract, Maltodextrin, Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Extract, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Mel Extract (Honey Extract), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Oligopeptide-10.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use morning and evening. For very oily skin, can be used up to 3 times daily. Start with once daily to assess tolerance.
π How to Use
Wet Your Face
Splash face with lukewarm water to prepare skin for cleansing.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a small amount (penny-sized) and massage into wet skin for 1 full minute. A little goes a long way.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with cool water. Avoid getting product in eyes as it may cause stinging.
Follow Up
Apply toner, serum, and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- You want a deep-cleaning, foaming cleanser
- You enjoy an invigorating, refreshing cleanse
- You have hormonal acne or adult breakouts
- You want professional-grade skincare
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You are sensitive to essential oils or fragrance
- You are pregnant (consult doctor first)
- You have a compromised skin barrier
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Effectively removes excess oil and sebum without over-stripping. Controls shine throughout the day.
Perfect for breakouts. 2% salicylic acid penetrates pores, tea tree oil fights bacteria. Reduces active blemishes.
Great for T-zone oiliness. May feel slightly drying on cheeks - follow with a good moisturizer.
May be too stripping for dry skin types. Use sparingly or alternate with a gentler cleanser. Moisturize well after.
Contains essential oils that may irritate sensitive skin. Patch test first and start with once daily use.
π Results Timeline
Initial Cleansing & Possible Purging
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed and refreshed. Some users may experience initial purging as pores unclog. Excess oil noticeably reduced.
85% noticed cleaner-feeling skinVisible Pore Improvement
Blackheads and clogged pores begin to clear. Skin texture improves. Active breakouts start to diminish. Less frequent new blemishes.
70% saw reduced breakoutsClearer, Smoother Complexion
Significant reduction in acne and blemishes. Pores appear minimized. Skin looks healthier with improved clarity and even tone.
80% reported clearer skinLong-Term Maintenance
Continued use maintains clear, balanced skin. Best results when used as part of a complete skincare regimen with consistent application.
90% would repurchaseβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Highly effective at clearing acne and clogged pores
- Professional-grade 2% salicylic acid concentration
- A little product goes a very long way
- Invigorating mint and eucalyptus scent
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
- Removes makeup effectively
- Works well for hormonal and adult acne
β Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Can be drying with overuse
- Essential oil scent not for everyone
- May cause stinging if it gets in eyes
- Initial purging period possible
- Contains fragrant essential oils (not for sensitive skin)
- Not ideal for very dry skin types
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains 4% benzoyl peroxide instead of salicylic acid, plus ceramides and niacinamide. More hydrating formula but different acne-fighting mechanism. Fragrance-free.
Contains 2% salicylic acid like IMAGE. Simpler formula without botanical extracts. Good for sensitive skin as it lacks essential oils. Less luxurious feel.
Contains 0.5% salicylic acid (lower concentration). Fragrance-free and gentler. Better for sensitive skin but less aggressive for stubborn acne. Smaller 6oz size.
Does not contain salicylic acid but is fungal acne safe. Very gentle, balm-to-oil texture. Better for double cleansing or dry skin. Needs a BHA product separately.
π Comparison with Competitors
IMAGE Clear Cell Salicylic Gel Cleanser
$34.00CeraVe SA Cleanser
$16.99La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated
$17.99Paula's Choice CLEAR Cleanser
$17.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed between uses.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Allows controlled dispensing and hygienic use.
Full size exceeds 100ml limit. Travel size (1.7 oz/50ml) available for carry-on luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
This cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper limit of what's generally considered acceptable during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical salicylic acid under 2% as generally safe, but it's best to consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid is considered safe as it has minimal systemic absorption, but avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby's skin.
Yes! This cleanser is fungal acne safe. It's listed on Simple Skincare Science's approved list for malassezia. The formula is free from problematic fatty acids, esters, and oils that feed malassezia yeast. The tea tree oil included may even help combat fungal overgrowth due to its antifungal properties.
Yes, but with caution. Since this cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), using it with other exfoliating acids (AHA, additional BHA) may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. When using retinol or vitamin C serums, apply them after cleansing and ensure your skin barrier is healthy. Start slowly - use the cleanser once daily and gradually increase. If experiencing dryness or irritation, reduce frequency or alternate with a gentler cleanser.
This cleanser is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling excess sebum, unclogging pores, and treating active breakouts. It also works well for combination skin, particularly for the T-zone. Those with dry, very sensitive, or compromised skin barriers should use with caution or consider gentler alternatives.
Most users notice cleaner-feeling skin immediately after use. Visible improvement in acne and clogged pores typically begins within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Significant clearing and improved skin texture is usually seen by 6-8 weeks. Note: Some users experience initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts) as the salicylic acid brings congestion to the surface - this typically resolves within 2-3 weeks.
This cleanser is the first step in your skincare routine. Use it on wet skin, massage for 1 minute, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner (optional), serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). For PM routines, if you wear makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser first, then follow with this gel cleanser.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It's specifically designed to unclog pores, not cause them. The oil-free gel formula with salicylic acid actively works to dissolve sebum plugs and clear pore congestion. It's suitable for acne-prone skin and won't contribute to breakouts.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best efficacy. The 6oz bottle typically lasts 2-4 months with twice-daily use since only a small amount is needed per application. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency.
Verdict: IMAGE Skincare Clear Cell Salicylic Gel Cleanser is an excellent professional-grade cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin. The 2% salicylic acid combined with tea tree oil and botanical extracts provides effective, multi-targeted acne treatment. While the price is higher than drugstore alternatives, the concentrated formula means a little goes a long way. The invigorating mint-eucalyptus scent is refreshing but may not suit those who prefer fragrance-free products. Best suited for those with stubborn acne, excess oil, and clogged pores who want spa-quality results at home.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|