Clear & Radiant Face Wash
Clear & Radiant Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
An uplifting daily gel cleanser developed with dermatologists, combining 0.5% Salicylic Acid and Vitamin C with pink grapefruit extract to gently exfoliate, brighten, and help prevent imperfections without over-drying skin.
Pink Grapefruit Extract
Natural citrus extract provides antioxidant benefits and an uplifting scent experience while cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPink Grapefruit Extract
Natural citrus extract provides antioxidant benefits and an uplifting scent experience while cleansing.
Vitamin C Brightening
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate helps brighten skin tone and improve radiance with continued use.
0.5% Salicylic Acid
Gentle BHA exfoliation helps unclog pores and prevent breakouts without over-drying.
Glycerin Hydration
Humectant ingredient helps maintain skin moisture during cleansing process.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% salicylic acid. ACOG considers low-concentration topical SA generally safe, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Topical salicylic acid at this concentration is unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk. Avoid applying to areas that contact baby.
Formula is free from fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free formula with low comedogenic rating. Designed for blemish-prone skin and won't clog pores.
Contains parfum (fragrance) which may cause sensitivity in some individuals. Patch test recommended for sensitive skin.
Contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate (not SLS). Milder than SLS but may still be drying for very dry or sensitive skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil to exfoliate inside pores, helping to prevent and treat breakouts while improving skin texture.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble acid dissolves sebum plugs and dead skin cells within pores
- FDA Status: Approved OTC acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentration
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, prevents new breakouts
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C)Proven
A stable, water-soluble form of Vitamin C that converts to ascorbic acid in the skin. Provides brightening and antioxidant benefits.
- Stability: More stable than pure ascorbic acid, less likely to oxidize
- Research: 2011 study found antibacterial properties beneficial for acne-prone skin
- Benefits: Brightens skin tone, fights free radicals, supports collagen
GlycerinProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Helps prevent the cleanser from being too stripping.
- Research: 2016 study found glycerin more effective as humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Function: Attracts water to skin, strengthens moisture barrier
- Bonus: Has antimicrobial and antiviral properties
Citrus Grandis Fruit Extract (Pink Grapefruit)Promising
Natural grapefruit extract that provides antioxidant benefits and gives the product its signature uplifting citrus scent.
- Antioxidants: Contains vitamin C and flavonoids
- Sensory: Provides refreshing, energizing aromatherapy experience
- Note: Used primarily for fragrance and minor antioxidant support
14 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Lauryl Glucoside, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Salicylic Acid, Parfum, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Propylene Glycol, Citrus Grandis Fruit Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening as the first step in your routine. Follow with Neutrogena Clear & Radiant Oil-Free Moisturiser for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face to prepare skin for cleansing. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils.
Apply & Lather
Dispense a small amount into hands, add water to create a lather, then massage gently onto face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. Avoid contact with eyes.
Pat Dry & Continue
Gently pat face dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with toner, treatments, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You experience occasional breakouts or blackheads
- You want a brightening cleanser
- You enjoy fresh citrus scents
- You have normal to blemish-prone skin
- You want an affordable, effective daily cleanser
- You have fungal acne concerns
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin
- You are fragrance-sensitive
- You prefer sulfate-free cleansers
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid salicylic acid
- You have rosacea or eczema
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free formula with salicylic acid effectively removes excess sebum and controls shine without over-stripping.
Balances well across different face zones. Glycerin helps maintain hydration in dry areas.
Works well for maintenance and prevention. May use once daily if twice daily feels too much.
SLES and salicylic acid may be too drying. Consider using only in PM and follow with rich moisturizer.
Contains fragrance which may irritate. Patch test first. Some users report allergic reactions.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe formula with proven acne-fighting salicylic acid. Ideal choice.
Results timeline
WEEK 4-8Clean, Fresh Feeling
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed, refreshed, and oil-free without tightness. Uplifting grapefruit scent provides energizing experience.
86% noticed smoother skinReduced Oiliness
Oil production begins to balance. Skin appears less shiny throughout the day. Some may experience initial purging.
75% saw reduced oilinessClearer Complexion
Fewer new breakouts forming. Existing blemishes begin to clear. Skin texture improving with continued exfoliation.
82% noticed brighter skinVisible Radiance
Vitamin C effects become more visible. Skin appears brighter, more radiant. Pores appear refined. Best results with consistent use.
78% reported clearer skinRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively cleanses without stripping
- Pleasant, uplifting grapefruit scent
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Dermatologist-developed formula
- Fungal acne safe
- Non-comedogenic, oil-free
- Skin feels smooth like glass after use
- Visible brightening with continued use
- Clears small breakouts effectively
Criticized
- Can be drying for dry skin types
- Contains fragrance (not for fragrance-sensitive)
- Contains SLES which some prefer to avoid
- May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- 0.5% SA may be too gentle for severe acne
- Stock availability issues reported
- Not suitable during pregnancy for some
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES2% salicylic acid (stronger) with ceramides for barrier support. Fragrance-free, gentler on skin. Better for sensitive acne-prone skin.
0.5% salicylic acid with soy extracts. Fragrance-free, gentler formula. Good for sensitive skin that still needs BHA.
2% salicylic acid with zinc. No Vitamin C or brightening focus. More targeted for acne than radiance.
0.5% salicylic acid, fragrance-free, more minimalist formula. Premium feel without irritating ingredients.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Plastic squeeze tube with flip-top cap for easy dispensing
No - 200ml exceeds 100ml airline liquid limit. Decant to smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe product contains 0.5% salicylic acid. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical salicylic acid at low concentrations (up to 2%) generally safe during pregnancy when used in limited amounts. However, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding salicylic acid entirely during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor before use. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid is unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk in significant amounts, but avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby.
Yes! This cleanser is fungal acne safe according to ingredient analysis. The formula is free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The salicylic acid may even help combat fungal acne by exfoliating and keeping pores clear. This makes it an excellent choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis.
Since this cleanser already contains salicylic acid (BHA), be cautious about layering additional exfoliating acids immediately after. You can use it with retinol, but start slowly and monitor for irritation. For additional Vitamin C serums, it's fine since the cleanser's Vitamin C is rinsed off. To avoid over-exfoliation, consider using this cleanser in the morning and your retinol/AHA products at night, or alternate days.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The oil-free formula with salicylic acid effectively controls sebum and prevents breakouts. Normal skin types can also benefit when used once daily. Those with dry or very sensitive skin may find it too drying due to the SLES and salicylic acid content, and the fragrance may irritate reactive skin.
According to clinical testing, 86% of users noticed smoother skin after just one use. For brightening effects, 82% reported brighter skin after 4 weeks of consistent use. For acne-clearing benefits, expect to see improvements in breakouts within 2-4 weeks. Full results for skin radiance and texture typically appear after 6-8 weeks of twice-daily use.
Use this cleanser as the first step in both your morning and evening skincare routines. After cleansing, follow with toner (optional), serums, eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). If you double cleanse, use an oil-based cleanser first to remove makeup/sunscreen, then follow with this water-based cleanser as your second cleanse.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5 and is specifically formulated to be non-comedogenic. The oil-free formula combined with pore-clearing salicylic acid actually helps prevent clogged pores rather than cause them. It's been designed with blemish-prone skin in mind and contains no heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. This means you should use it within one year of first opening the tube. The sodium benzoate preservative helps maintain product stability. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. If the product changes color, texture, or smell, discontinue use.
Verdict: Neutrogena Clear & Radiant Face Wash is an excellent budget-friendly cleanser for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The dermatologist-developed formula combines effective acne-fighting salicylic acid with brightening Vitamin C in a fungal acne-safe formulation. While the fragrance and SLES may not suit everyone, the vast majority of users experience cleaner, clearer, and more radiant skin. At this price point, it's hard to beat for those who tolerate the ingredients well. Best suited for teens and adults dealing with mild to moderate breakouts and dull skin.Recommended for: oily/combination skin, occasional breakouts, budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts who enjoy citrus scents.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Citrus Grandis Fruit Extract
Astringent, Perfuming, Skin Conditioning, Tonic
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|








