Deep Clean Acne Foaming Cleanser
Deep Clean Acne Foaming Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective foaming cleanser powered by Amino Micellar Technology with 0.5% Salicylic Acid and IPMP to deeply cleanse pores, remove 99% of dirt and acne-causing bacteria while maintaining skin's natural moisture barrier.
Amino Micellar Technology
8% amino acid-based micelles gently lift away impurities without disrupting the skin's natural barrier, maintaining 99% natural moisture.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAmino Micellar Technology
8% amino acid-based micelles gently lift away impurities without disrupting the skin's natural barrier, maintaining 99% natural moisture.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Removes 99% of dirt, oil, dead skin cells, and acne-causing bacteria from deep within pores for clearer, healthier-looking skin.
Dual Acne-Fighting Action
Combines 0.5% Salicylic Acid with IPMP (o-Cymen-5-ol) antibacterial agent to target and prevent acne breakouts effectively.
Barrier-Friendly Formula
Gentle amino acid surfactants (Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate & Isethionate) cleanse without stripping skin, keeping it balanced and hydrated.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% Salicylic Acid. While low-concentration topical SA in rinse-off products is generally considered safe by ACOG, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
NOT safe for fungal acne. Contains Glycol Distearate and fatty acids (Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid) that may feed Malassezia yeast and worsen the condition.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Formulated to be non-comedogenic and won't clog pores for most skin types.
Contains fragrance which may irritate very sensitive skin. Patch test recommended before first use. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or discontinue.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates into pores to dissolve the debris and oil that cause acne. At 0.5%, it provides gentle exfoliation suitable for daily use without over-drying.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, allowing penetration into sebum-filled pores
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, prevents future breakouts
- FDA Status: Recognized as OTC acne treatment at 0.5-2%
o-Cymen-5-ol (IPMP) ActiveProven
A powerful antibacterial agent derived from thyme that targets and eliminates acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes) on the skin surface.
- Function: Antimicrobial agent that reduces bacterial count on skin
- Benefits: Prevents bacterial proliferation that leads to inflammatory acne
- Safety: Well-tolerated preservative with low irritation potential
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate & Isethionate 8% AminoProven
Ultra-gentle amino acid-based surfactants derived from coconut that create rich foam while preserving the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Source: Derived from coconut fatty acids and amino acids
- Benefits: Effective cleansing without disrupting skin barrier
- Research: Dr. Leslie Baumann notes Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate "has defined a new dimension in mildness"
Glycerin High PositionProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, helping to counterbalance any potential drying effects from the active acne-fighting ingredients.
- Function: Attracts and retains water in the skin
- Research: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than AHAs or HA as humectant
- Benefits: Prevents skin from feeling tight or dry after cleansing
19 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Myristic Acid, Glycol Distearate, Acrylates Copolymer, Lauric Acid, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Phenoxyethanol, Salicylic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance, Hydroxyethylcellulose, o-Cymen-5-ol, Disodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening as the first step in your skincare routine. For double cleansing, use an oil cleanser first to remove makeup, then follow with this foaming cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water to prepare skin for cleansing. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a small amount (pea-sized) into your palms and work into a rich, creamy foam with water.
Massage Gently
Apply to face and massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on oily areas like T-zone. Avoid eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water ensuring no residue remains. Pat dry gently with a clean towel.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- You want a gentle daily acne-fighting cleanser
- You prefer foam cleansers with rich lather
- You need oil control throughout the day
- You want to maintain clear skin as preventive care
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're extremely sensitive to fragrances
- You need stronger acne treatment (consider 2% SA)
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You're pregnant (consult doctor first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Controls excess oil, deep cleanses pores without over-stripping. Leaves skin matte and fresh for hours.
Works well on T-zone oiliness while gentle enough for drier cheeks. Good balance of cleansing and hydration.
Designed specifically for this skin type. SA + IPMP combo targets acne bacteria and unclogs pores effectively.
Works well as preventive care. May be more than needed if you rarely experience breakouts.
May feel slightly drying. If you use this, follow with a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer immediately.
Contains fragrance which may irritate some. Patch test first. Start with once daily use.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Cleaner, Fresher Feeling
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed without tightness. Noticeable reduction in surface oiliness throughout the day. Pores appear cleaner after each wash.
85% noticed cleaner skinReduced Breakouts
New breakouts begin to decrease as salicylic acid clears pores. Some users may experience mild purging as clogged pores surface. Blackheads start to diminish.
70% reported fewer new pimplesClearer Complexion
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Oil production better controlled. Skin texture smoother with refined pores. Existing acne heals faster.
75% achieved clearer skinMaintained Results
Consistent use maintains clear skin. Fewer breakout occurrences with continued daily use. Skin adapts to formula and maintains healthy balance.
80% maintained improvementsRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle amino acid surfactants don't strip skin
- Creates rich, creamy foam users love
- Effectively controls oil throughout the day
- Affordable drugstore price point
- pH-balanced formula (5.5)
- Small amount needed per use - lasts long
- Leaves skin feeling fresh without tightness
- Dual acne-fighting actives (SA + IPMP)
Criticized
- Contains fragrance - not ideal for sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acids
- 0.5% SA may be too mild for severe acne
- Can feel drying in winter or for dry skin types
- Not available in all countries/regions
- Packaging not the most travel-friendly
- Results require consistent long-term use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 4% Benzoyl Peroxide instead of SA. Includes ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Stronger acne-fighting but may be more drying.
No acne actives but extremely gentle. Better for sensitive skin. Use with separate acne treatment. Fragrance-free option available.
Same brand, 2% Salicylic Acid (stronger). Uses harsher surfactants. Better for severe oiliness but more drying than the Amino Micellar formula.
K-beauty option with tea tree oil instead of SA. Very gentle, pH balanced. Less effective for active acne but great for maintenance.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination.
100g size is TSA compliant for carry-on. Secure cap prevents leaks.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. This product contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid. While the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) generally considers low-concentration topical salicylic acid (under 2%) in rinse-off products safe during pregnancy, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider before use. The low concentration and short contact time minimize absorption, but individual medical advice should take precedence.
No, this cleanser is NOT safe for fungal acne. It contains Glycol Distearate (a stearic acid ester), Myristic Acid, and Lauric Acid - all of which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis, consider fungal acne-safe alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or specific fungal acne-safe products.
Yes, but with caution. Since this cleanser contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid (a BHA), using it with other actives may increase irritation. For beginners: Start by using the cleanser alone for 2 weeks. Then introduce one active at a time. You can use retinol or AHA at night after cleansing. Vitamin C is best used in the morning. If you experience irritation, reduce frequency or alternate days.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The oil-controlling properties and gentle acne-fighting actives make it ideal for those who deal with excess sebum and frequent breakouts. It can work for normal skin as preventive care. It may be too drying for dry or very sensitive skin types - these skin types should consider gentler alternatives.
Results timeline varies: Week 1 - Skin feels cleaner and less oily. Weeks 2-3 - Reduction in new breakouts begins (some may experience mild purging). Weeks 4-6 - Noticeable improvement in skin clarity and texture. Week 8+ - Consistent results with continued use. For best results, use twice daily consistently and follow with appropriate skincare routine.
This cleanser should be the FIRST step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. For double cleansing (PM): Use an oil-based cleanser first to remove makeup/sunscreen, then follow with this foaming cleanser. After cleansing, continue with toner, serum/treatment, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). The cleanser removes impurities so subsequent products can better penetrate.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is formulated to be non-comedogenic. It's actually designed to unclog pores through its salicylic acid content. However, everyone's skin is different - if you notice increased blackheads or breakouts after extended use, your skin may be reacting to one of the ingredients. The fatty acids (Myristic and Lauric Acid) may potentially cause issues for some highly sensitive individuals.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, the product should be used within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to prevent contamination and drying out. If the texture, smell, or color changes significantly, discontinue use even if within the 12-month period.
Verdict: Neutrogena Deep Clean Acne Foaming Cleanser is a solid, affordable option for those with oily and acne-prone skin seeking gentle daily cleansing with mild acne-fighting benefits. The innovative Amino Micellar Technology sets it apart from harsher acne cleansers, delivering effective cleansing without compromising the skin barrier. While the 0.5% Salicylic Acid concentration may be too mild for severe acne, it's perfect for maintenance and mild breakouts. The main drawbacks are its fragrance content (not ideal for sensitive skin) and fatty acid content (not suitable for fungal acne). Overall, an excellent value-for-money choice in the drugstore acne cleanser category.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 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
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|