Deep Cleanse RX
Deep Cleanse RX
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength cleanser and acne treatment in one, formulated by dermatologists with three clinically proven active ingredients: Sodium Sulfide (10%), Zinc Pyrithione (0.5%), and Salicylic Acid (1%) to deeply cleanse pores, fight acne-causing bacteria and fungi, and prevent future breakouts.
Triple-Action Rx Formula
Combines Sodium Sulfide 10%, Zinc Pyrithione 0.5%, and Salicylic Acid 1% for comprehensive acne treatment targeting bacteria, fungus, and clogged pores.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Action Rx Formula
Combines Sodium Sulfide 10%, Zinc Pyrithione 0.5%, and Salicylic Acid 1% for comprehensive acne treatment targeting bacteria, fungus, and clogged pores.
Gentle Yet Effective
Soothing base with oat extract, glycerin, and panthenol hydrates while treating, preventing the dryness common with prescription acne products.
Provider-Prescribed
A licensed dermatology provider reviews your skin profile and prescribes a personalized formula tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Barrier-Friendly
Non-stripping formula with coconut-derived cleansers (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate) that clean without disrupting your skin's protective barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% Salicylic Acid. ACOG considers topical salicylic acid up to 2% generally safe during pregnancy, but consult your healthcare provider. Avoid during breastfeeding if product contacts baby's skin.
Contains Zinc Pyrithione which specifically targets and kills Malassezia yeast. Clinically proven to combat fungal overgrowth that causes pityrosporum folliculitis.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and pH-balanced. Formulated with soothing oat extract and hydrating glycerin. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Contains Salicylic Acid (BHA). Avoid using other exfoliating acids in the same routine. If using tretinoin or retinol, apply this cleanser AM and treatments PM.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Sulfide 10%Rx Active
A powerful keratolytic and antibacterial agent that helps dissolve and remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
- Mechanism: Breaks down keratin bonds in dead skin cells, promoting cellular turnover
- Benefit: Deep pore cleansing and comedone reduction
Zinc Pyrithione 0.5%Proven
A potent antifungal and antibacterial compound that targets Malassezia yeast (the cause of fungal acne) and reduces inflammation and sebum production.
- Study: Effective at killing Malassezia globosa and M. restricta at low MIC concentrations
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces C. acnes bacteria and calms redness
- Sebum Control: Decreases oil production through anti-androgenic activity
Salicylic Acid 1%Proven BHA
A well-researched beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within, reduce blackheads, and prevent future breakouts.
- Oil-Soluble: Penetrates sebum to clean deep within pores unlike water-soluble AHAs
- Clinical Data: 2013 placebo-controlled study showed significant reduction in acne lesions
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and swelling associated with acne
Sodium Cocoyl IsethionateSupporting
An ultra-gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that creates a luxurious foam without stripping natural oils or disrupting the skin barrier.
- Gentle: One of the mildest cleansing agents available
- Non-Drying: Preserves skin's natural moisture balance
28 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Sodium Sulfide 10%, Zinc Pyrithione 0.5%, Salicylic Acid 1%
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Acrylates Copolymer, Propanediol, Xylitylglucoside, Coconut Alcohol, Coco-Glucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Stearic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Sodium Hydroxide, Xylitol, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Isethionate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Glucose, Potassium Sorbate, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first step, morning and/or evening. Always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen (AM) as active ingredients can increase sun sensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and irritate skin.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a small amount and gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on breakout-prone areas.
Let It Work
For enhanced benefits, allow the cleanser to sit for up to 30 seconds before rinsing to let active ingredients penetrate.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with moisturizer immediately.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with persistent acne that OTC products haven't resolved
- You have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) or suspect yeast overgrowth
- You want a cleanser-treatment combo to simplify your routine
- You prefer dermatologist-prescribed, evidence-based skincare
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want ongoing provider support and formula adjustments
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin that needs ultra-gentle cleansers
- You prefer natural/organic-only skincare products
- You want a one-time purchase without subscription
- You have known allergies to sulfur-based ingredients
- You need immediate in-person dermatology care for severe acne
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid and zinc pyrithione help control excess sebum production while deeply cleansing oily pores.
Balances oily T-zone while gentle surfactants don't over-dry cheeks. Follow with hydrating moisturizer.
Specifically designed for acne. Triple-action formula targets bacteria, fungus, and clogged pores simultaneously.
Fragrance-free and pH-balanced with soothing oat. Start every other day and patch test first. May cause initial adjustment.
Active ingredients may be drying. Use only once daily, follow immediately with rich moisturizer. Consider gentler alternatives if very dry.
Results timeline
MONTH 4-6Initial Adjustment
Skin may purge as deep congestion surfaces. Possible temporary increase in breakouts, mild dryness, or sensitivity as skin adjusts to active ingredients.
Normal for 30% of usersEarly Improvements
Reduced oiliness and smaller-looking pores. Active breakouts begin calming. Skin feels cleaner and smoother after each wash.
60% notice clearer skinVisible Transformation
Significant reduction in acne lesions, fewer new breakouts, and improved overall skin texture. Fungal acne users see major clearing.
85% see significant improvementOptimal Results
Clearer, healthier-looking skin with minimal breakouts. Continued use helps maintain results and prevent future acne.
93% report effectiveRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Prescription-strength actives without dermatologist visit
- Effective for fungal acne (zinc pyrithione)
- Gentle formula doesn't strip skin
- Ongoing provider support included
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic
- 93% effectiveness rate reported
- HSA/FSA eligible product
- Cleanser + treatment in one step
Criticized
- Subscription-only model required
- Initial purging period for some users
- May be drying for very dry skin types
- Not available in physical stores
- Results take 2-3 months to see
- Auto-renewal can be frustrating
- Slight sulfur-like scent
- Requires consultation process
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains higher SA concentration (2% vs 1%) but lacks zinc pyrithione and sodium sulfide. Great for non-fungal acne. Includes ceramides for barrier support.
2% salicylic acid formula from French pharmacy brand. Contains zinc gluconate for oil control but no antifungal zinc pyrithione. Better for sensitive skin.
Contains key fungal-fighting zinc pyrithione at 2% but in bar form without salicylic acid. Excellent for fungal acne on face and body. Less elegant texture.
Different active (benzoyl peroxide vs SA/zinc). More aggressive antibacterial action but can be very drying. Not fungal acne safe. Best for bacterial acne only.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date on packaging for unopened product.
Store at room temperature (59-77°F/15-25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap closure. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination.
Yes, TSA-compliant size available. Tube packaging is leak-resistant and durable for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution advised. Deep Cleanse RX contains 1% Salicylic Acid. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical salicylic acid at concentrations up to 2% generally safe during pregnancy, but you should consult your healthcare provider before use. During breastfeeding, avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby's skin. The sodium sulfide and zinc pyrithione have limited safety data for pregnancy, so discuss with your dermatology provider and OB/GYN.
Yes! Deep Cleanse RX is excellent for fungal acne. It contains 0.5% Zinc Pyrithione, a clinically proven antifungal ingredient that specifically targets and kills Malassezia yeast—the organism responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). Studies show zinc pyrithione effectively inhibits Malassezia growth at low concentrations and persists in hair follicles where the yeast resides. This makes Deep Cleanse RX one of the few prescription cleansers that actively treats fungal acne while also addressing bacterial acne.
Use caution when combining with other actives. Deep Cleanse RX already contains 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA). Using additional BHAs or AHAs in the same routine may cause over-exfoliation, irritation, and dryness. For retinol/tretinoin users: use Deep Cleanse RX in the morning and your retinoid at night to minimize irritation. Vitamin C serums can typically be used after cleansing but wait until skin is completely dry. Always start slowly when combining actives and moisturize well.
Deep Cleanse RX is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The formula excels at controlling excess sebum, clearing clogged pores, and fighting acne-causing bacteria and fungi. It's also excellent for those with fungal acne regardless of skin type. Sensitive skin users can benefit but should start slowly (every other day) and patch test first. Those with very dry skin may find it too drying and should ensure adequate moisturization or consider gentler alternatives.
Most users notice initial improvements in skin texture and oiliness within 2-4 weeks. Significant acne reduction typically occurs around weeks 6-12. Some users experience an initial "purging" period (weeks 1-2) where breakouts temporarily increase as the formula brings deep congestion to the surface. Full results, including clearer skin and prevention of new breakouts, are usually seen by months 3-6. Curology reports 93% of users find the product effective. Consistency is key—use daily as prescribed.
Deep Cleanse RX should be used as your first step—the cleanser in your routine. Use it morning and/or evening (or as prescribed by your provider). After cleansing, allow skin to dry, then apply toner (optional), serums, treatments, moisturizer, and sunscreen (morning only). Since the cleanser contains active ingredients, you may not need additional acne treatments. Always finish your morning routine with SPF as actives can increase sun sensitivity.
No, Deep Cleanse RX is non-comedogenic with a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is specifically designed to unclog pores, not cause blockages. It contains salicylic acid which penetrates and clears pores, and uses gentle, non-pore-clogging surfactants like sodium cocoyl isethionate. While the formula contains stearic acid (which some consider potentially comedogenic), it's used in small amounts and rinses off, so it shouldn't cause clogging. Curology formulates all products to be non-comedogenic.
Deep Cleanse RX has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. The subscription model ensures you receive fresh product regularly. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed to prevent contamination and maintain the stability of active ingredients. Check the expiration date printed on your packaging for unopened shelf life.
Verdict: Curology Deep Cleanse RX is an excellent prescription-strength cleanser for those struggling with persistent acne, especially fungal acne. The triple-action formula combining Sodium Sulfide, Zinc Pyrithione, and Salicylic Acid offers comprehensive treatment that most OTC products can't match. The inclusion of zinc pyrithione makes it uniquely effective for Malassezia-related breakouts. While the subscription model and initial purging period may deter some, the 93% effectiveness rate and ongoing dermatology provider support justify the investment for those seeking serious acne treatment. Best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types looking for professional-grade results without an in-office dermatology visit.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Sodium Sulfide
|
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc Pyrithione
Antiseborrhoeic, Preservative
|
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Xylitylglucoside
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|