Clear Face Anti-Pimple Gel
Clear Face Anti-Pimple Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A targeted spot treatment gel with antibacterial Chloroxylenol, soothing Bisabolol and skin-regenerating Panthenol & Allantoin. pH 5.5 balanced to protect the skin's acid mantle while effectively drying out pimples, blackheads and blemishes without over-drying surrounding skin.
Antibacterial Action
Chloroxylenol inhibits acne-causing bacteria growth while Bisabolol soothes inflammation around the blemish.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Chloroxylenol inhibits acne-causing bacteria growth while Bisabolol soothes inflammation around the blemish.
pH 5.5 Acid Mantle Protection
Matches the skin's natural pH to strengthen the acid mantle barrier, preventing new breakouts while treating existing ones.
Skin Regeneration Complex
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and Allantoin promote wound healing and cell regeneration, helping blemishes heal without scarring.
Botanical Soothing Blend
Cucumber extract, Witch Hazel and Hydrolyzed Silk calm irritation and prevent flaky patches as the pimple dries out.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Chloroxylenol (antiseptic) and denatured Alcohol. No retinoids or salicylic acid present. Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy as topical antiseptics require medical guidance.
NOT fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne breakouts.
Rated 1/5. Water and alcohol-based formula with no oils or heavy emollients. Very unlikely to clog pores.
Free from retinol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and other strong exfoliants. Safe to layer with your existing actives.
Includes Parfum, which may cause irritation for very sensitive or reactive skin types. Patch test recommended.
Backed by over 400 clinical studies on Sebamed's pH 5.5 formulation philosophy. Excellent skin tolerance confirmed.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPanthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1.6-2.4%Proven
A powerful skin-identical moisturizer that converts to Vitamin B5 in the skin. Promotes cell regeneration, strengthens the barrier and has anti-inflammatory properties to calm irritated, blemish-prone skin.
- Study: Shown to improve skin barrier function and reduce trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) at concentrations above 1%.
- Benefit: Promotes fibroblast proliferation, supporting collagen production and wound healing to minimize post-acne scarring.
Bisabolol ~0.2-0.5%Proven
The active component of chamomile, Bisabolol is a clear oily liquid valued for its potent anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing abilities. Reduces redness and irritation around active breakouts.
- Source: Derived from chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) or produced synthetically as alpha-Bisabolol.
- Benefit: Demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and skin-healing properties in dermatological studies.
Allantoin ~1.0-1.5%Proven
A classic soothing and wound-healing ingredient found naturally in comfrey root. Promotes cell turnover, softens skin and aids in the repair of damaged tissue from acne lesions.
- Function: Keratolytic action helps shed dead skin cells over the blemish, supporting faster healing.
- Benefit: May help improve scar appearance over time by stimulating healthy tissue regeneration.
Chloroxylenol ~0.1-0.5%Proven
An antimicrobial and antiseptic agent that targets acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). Provides localized antibacterial protection to help dry out and eliminate active pimples.
- Function: Broad-spectrum antiseptic effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi.
- Usage: Widely used in medicated skincare and pharmaceutical formulations at low concentrations for topical disinfection.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract ~0.5-1%Promising
A natural astringent derived from Witch Hazel bark and leaves. Tightens pores, reduces oil and has mild anti-inflammatory properties to calm inflamed blemishes.
- Source: Extracted from the bark and leaves of the North American Witch Hazel shrub.
- Benefit: Contains tannins with astringent and antioxidant properties that help control excess sebum.
Glycerin ~3.7-5.6%Proven
A skin-identical humectant naturally present in the skin. Draws moisture from the environment, keeps the treated area hydrated and prevents the excessive dryness that alcohol-based formulas can cause.
- Study: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Benefit: Comedogenicity rating of 0. Antimicrobial and skin-barrier protective properties.
19 ingredients
Aqua, Alcohol, Glycerin, Polysorbate 20, Propylene Glycol, Panthenol, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Hamamelis Virginiana Bark/Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Silk, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Chloroxylenol, Caramel, Citric Acid, Sodium Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Parfum, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply directly on pimples and problem zones after cleansing. Can be used several times a day as needed. Works best when paired with Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam and Clear Face Care Gel.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash the affected area with a mild cleanser (Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam recommended) and pat dry gently.
Apply to Blemishes
Squeeze a small amount of gel directly onto the pimple or blackhead. Target individual blemishes — do not apply all over the face.
Massage Gently
Lightly massage the gel into the skin until absorbed. Do not rinse off — allow the gel to dry naturally on the blemish.
Repeat as Needed
Re-apply several times a day as needed. For best results, use morning and evening consistently until the blemish clears.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You get occasional pimples and need a targeted spot treatment
- You want an antibacterial gel that won't over-dry surrounding skin
- You prefer pH-balanced, dermatologically tested formulas
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You want a gentle alternative to harsh benzoyl peroxide treatments
- You need something to reduce pimple size and redness overnight
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe, widespread cystic acne (this is a spot treatment, not a full-face solution)
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains Polysorbate 20
- You're extremely sensitive to fragrance (contains Parfum)
- You need a stronger active like benzoyl peroxide or adapalene
- You want a larger size — this is only 10ml
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAlcohol-based gel dries excess oil effectively. Mattifying finish. Won't add shine or greasiness to oily zones.
Ideal for targeting T-zone breakouts without affecting drier cheek areas. Spot-only application keeps balance.
Specifically formulated for acne. Antibacterial, non-comedogenic, pH-balanced to prevent recurring breakouts.
Panthenol, Bisabolol and Allantoin soothe irritation. Contains Parfum and Alcohol — patch test first if very reactive.
Alcohol base can be drying. Use only as a spot treatment and follow with a good moisturizer to prevent flaking.
Results timeline
1-2 WEEKSImmediate Drying Effect
Gel dries on the blemish creating a protective layer. Alcohol begins absorbing excess sebum. Slight tightening sensation on the treated spot.
85% noticed drying effectReduced Size & Redness
Pimple noticeably smaller and less inflamed. Chloroxylenol works on bacteria. Panthenol and Allantoin begin healing the blemish site.
70% saw visible improvementPimple Flattens & Heals
With consistent application, the pimple dries out, flattens and a thin skin flake forms that peels off cleanly. Surrounding skin stays intact.
65% reported full clearance of mild pimplesPost-Blemish Recovery
Skin regeneration from Panthenol and Allantoin helps minimize post-inflammatory marks. Area returns to normal skin tone faster than untreated blemishes.
60% noticed reduced post-acne marksRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively dries out surface pimples overnight without damaging surrounding skin
- pH 5.5 protects the skin's acid mantle while treating blemishes
- Gentle enough not to cause peeling or excessive redness around the spot
- Contains soothing and regenerating ingredients (Panthenol, Allantoin, Bisabolol)
- Paraben-free and dermatologically tested with clinical backing
- Long-lasting despite small tube — a little goes a long way for spot treatment
Criticized
- Very small 10ml tube — poor value if breakouts are frequent
- Not effective for severe, deep cystic acne
- Contains Parfum (fragrance) which can irritate very sensitive skin
- Sticky gel texture can be difficult to spread evenly
- Alcohol-based formula may over-dry already dry skin types
- Not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Larger 40ml size with Niacinamide and BHA for acne. More of a serum than a spot gel — broader approach to breakouts. K-beauty formula, fungal acne safe.
Iconic pink spot treatment with Salicylic Acid, Sulfur and Calamine. Stronger drying action but more irritating. Applied with cotton swab to spots overnight only.
A preventive serum rather than a spot treatment. Reduces sebum production and blemish severity over time. 30ml size offers much better value but works differently.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
3 MONTHS3 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C (77°F). Keep away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Slim squeeze tube with pointed nozzle for precise spot application
Yes — 10ml is well under the 100ml airline liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in any travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The gel does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone — the most commonly flagged pregnancy-unsafe ingredients. However, it does contain Chloroxylenol (a topical antiseptic) and denatured Alcohol. While these are applied only to small spot areas, it is always best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any medicated spot treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, a surfactant/emulsifier that can serve as a food source for Malassezia yeast. If you have confirmed or suspected fungal acne, look for alternatives without polysorbates, fatty acids or esters. The Sebamed Clear Face Care Gel (moisturizer) is a better fungal-acne-safe option from the same brand.
Yes, generally you can. This gel does not contain any exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) or retinoids, so it won't create excessive irritation when layered with your existing actives. Apply your retinol or AHA/BHA first, let it absorb, then dab the Anti-Pimple Gel on specific blemishes. However, if you notice excessive dryness or irritation from the combination (especially with the alcohol content), reduce usage frequency.
It's best suited for oily, combination and acne-prone skin types. The alcohol-based gel effectively dries out blemishes and controls excess oil. Those with sensitive skin can also benefit from the soothing Panthenol and Bisabolol, though a patch test is recommended due to the Parfum content. It is less ideal for very dry skin as the alcohol base can be further drying — always follow with moisturizer.
Most users notice visible improvement overnight (8-12 hours) — reduced redness, smaller pimple size and a drying effect on the blemish. Mild surface pimples often clear within 1-3 days of consistent application. Deeper or under-the-skin pimples may take 3-7 days or longer. For best results, apply 2-3 times daily and combine with the full Sebamed Clear Face routine.
Apply it as a spot treatment after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Anti-Pimple Gel (on spots only) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). This ensures the active ingredients make direct contact with the blemish. You can reapply throughout the day as needed on clean skin.
No, it has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The water and alcohol base is oil-free, with no heavy emollients or occlusive agents. Glycerin (comedogenicity: 0) and Propylene Glycol are lightweight humectants. It is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and is very unlikely to clog pores or cause new breakouts when used as directed.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 3 months. Since it's a 10ml tube intended for spot treatment, most users find it lasts 1-3 months depending on breakout frequency. Despite the short PAO, the small tube is practical for targeted use — you only need a tiny amount per application. Store it in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly sealed to maintain efficacy.
Verdict: Sebamed Clear Face Anti-Pimple Gel is a gentle, dermatologically-tested spot treatment that excels at treating mild to moderate pimples without destroying your skin barrier. Its pH 5.5 formula with soothing Panthenol, Bisabolol and Allantoin sets it apart from harsher alternatives — your skin heals rather than just dries out. The antibacterial Chloroxylenol tackles bacteria effectively for surface-level breakouts. However, the tiny 10ml size, presence of Parfum and Polysorbate 20 (not fungal acne safe), and mild potency compared to benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid spot treatments mean it's best suited as a gentle everyday companion rather than a heavy-duty acne fighter. Ideal for those who want a non-aggressive, pharmaceutical-grade German approach to spot treating occasional breakouts.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Masking, Solvent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|