Dual Action Moisturiser
Dual Action Moisturiser
Product Description
Product overview
An oil-free, lightweight moisturiser with 0.5% Salicylic Acid that hydrates dry skin while treating and helping to prevent spots and blemishes. Fragrance-free and formulated to leave skin feeling soft, smooth, and shine-free every day.
Dual Action Formula
Moisturises dry skin while treating existing blemishes and helping to prevent new breakouts with 0.5% Salicylic Acid.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Action Formula
Moisturises dry skin while treating existing blemishes and helping to prevent new breakouts with 0.5% Salicylic Acid.
Oil-Free Hydration
Lightweight formula with Glycerin and Propylene Glycol delivers moisture without clogging pores or adding shine.
Cooling Sensation
Menthyl Lactate provides a refreshing, cooling feel on application that soothes and calms the skin.
Gentle Enough for Daily Use
Fragrance-free formula is suitable for everyday use on sensitive and blemish-prone skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA). While low-concentration topical BHA is generally considered low risk, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding salicylic acid during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains fatty acids (Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid), esters (C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Propylene Glycol Isostearate), and silicones that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 2/5 for comedogenicity. Oil-free formula is designed not to clog pores. Most individual ingredients score 0–2 on the comedogenic scale.
The UK formulation is fragrance-free, making it more suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Includes Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, and Propylparaben as preservatives. While considered safe by regulatory bodies at approved levels, some users may prefer paraben-free alternatives.
Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, and Dimethicone help create a smooth, non-greasy finish. Generally well tolerated but some users may be sensitive to silicones.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates into pores to dissolve excess sebum, exfoliate dead skin cells, and reduce bacteria. The gold-standard ingredient for treating and preventing acne and blackheads.
- Mechanism: Lipid-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into the pore lining and break down the bonds between dead skin cells.
- Evidence: Extensively studied for acne. At 0.5% it offers a gentle yet effective dose suitable for daily use.
- Benefit: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, smooths skin texture, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties.
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin, helping to maintain hydration levels throughout the day. One of the most well-researched and trusted moisturising ingredients available.
- Source: Can be plant-derived or synthetic. Extensively proven to improve skin hydration and barrier function.
- Evidence: Hundreds of clinical studies confirm its efficacy as a humectant at concentrations of 2-5%.
Menthyl Lactate ~0.5-1%Promising
A menthol-derived cooling agent that provides a refreshing, long-lasting cooling sensation without the irritation potential of pure menthol. Also has mild moisturising properties thanks to the lactic acid component.
- Mechanism: Activates cold-sensitive receptors in the skin, producing a pleasant cooling effect.
- Benefit: Soothes skin, reduces the sensation of discomfort, and leaves skin feeling fresh and invigorated.
Dimethicone ~1-3%Proven
A lightweight silicone that forms a breathable barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and provide a smooth, silky finish. Helps the moisturiser spread easily and gives skin a soft, non-greasy feel.
- Mechanism: Creates an occlusive layer that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) without blocking pores.
- Evidence: Widely used in dermatology. Considered safe and non-comedogenic by the FDA and CIR Expert Panel.
Propylene Glycol ~5-10%Proven
A humectant and solvent that helps deliver active ingredients into the skin while providing lightweight hydration. Also acts as a penetration enhancer to improve the absorption of salicylic acid.
- Mechanism: Attracts and retains water in the skin while helping other ingredients penetrate more effectively.
- Safety: Approved for cosmetic use worldwide. Can occasionally cause sensitivity in individuals with very reactive skin.
24 ingredients
Aqua, Propylene Glycol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Menthyl Lactate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propylene Glycol Isostearate, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid, PEG-100 Stearate, Sodium Hydroxide, Dimethicone, Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening after cleansing. Apply sunscreen as a final step in the morning. Can be used as your sole moisturiser or layered under a heavier cream at night if needed.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. This ensures the moisturiser can absorb properly into clean skin.
Dispense a Small Amount
Squeeze a pea-sized amount of moisturiser into your palm. A little goes a long way with this product.
Smooth Over Face & Neck
Gently massage the moisturiser over your entire face and neck using upward motions. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Follow with Sunscreen (Morning)
If using in the morning, wait 1–2 minutes for absorption, then apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as your final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You want a lightweight, oil-free daily moisturiser
- You need a budget-friendly acne treatment moisturiser
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare products
- You want a simple, no-fuss product that moisturises and fights spots
- You are a teenager or young adult dealing with mild to moderate acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin that needs rich, heavy-duty hydration
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You prefer paraben-free or silicone-free formulas
- You have severe cystic acne requiring prescription treatment
- You want anti-ageing benefits like ceramides or peptides
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Salicylic acid helps control excess sebum production and keeps pores clear.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry patches without making the T-zone oily. Ideal for combination skin types.
Specifically designed for acne-prone skin. The 0.5% Salicylic Acid treats existing blemishes while preventing new breakouts. Non-comedogenic.
Fragrance-free formula is gentler than many acne moisturisers. However, menthyl lactate cooling effect may cause slight tingling. Patch test recommended.
Provides light hydration but may not be moisturising enough for very dry skin on its own. Best layered under a richer cream at night for dry skin types.
Works well as a lightweight daily moisturiser. The BHA provides gentle exfoliation to maintain a smooth, clear complexion without over-drying.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8–12Immediate Hydration & Cooling
Skin feels softer and more hydrated right away. The cooling menthyl lactate sensation is noticeable on first use. Skin appears less shiny throughout the day.
85% noticed softer skinPore Clearing & Texture Improvement
Salicylic acid begins to unclog pores and reduce blackheads. Skin texture starts to feel smoother. Some users may experience mild purging as congestion is brought to the surface.
70% noticed fewer blackheadsVisible Blemish Reduction
Noticeable reduction in breakouts and spot frequency. Skin appears clearer and more even-toned. Oil production feels more balanced throughout the day.
65% reported fewer breakoutsLong-Term Clarity & Prevention
Consistent use delivers sustained blemish prevention. Skin looks healthier, smoother, and more radiant. Fewer unexpected breakouts when used as part of a daily routine.
60% reported clearer skin overallRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable (under £4 for 100ml)
- Lightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly
- Effective at reducing breakouts with daily use
- Refreshing cooling sensation on application
- Fragrance-free (UK formulation)
- Non-comedogenic and won't clog pores
- A little goes a long way — lasts months
- Great under makeup as a primer-like base
Criticized
- Not hydrating enough for dry skin types
- Cooling sensation can sting near the eyes
- Contains parabens (some users prefer paraben-free)
- Not fungal acne safe
- Squeeze tube can be hard to get product out of
- May cause purging or irritation in first 1–2 weeks
- Won't treat severe or cystic acne on its own
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar concept at a similar price point. Adds niacinamide for oil control and brightening. Slightly more moisturising texture. Available exclusively at Boots stores.
Same 0.5% salicylic acid concentration. Contains added grapefruit extract and fragrance, so not as suitable for sensitive skin. Slightly more hydrating formula.
No salicylic acid so no acne-fighting action. A pure hydration play with amino acids and ceramide precursors. Better for dry skin but lacks the blemish-prevention benefit.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Opaque squeeze tube with screw cap. Protects formula from light degradation.
Yes, 100ml — exactly at the carry-on liquid limit for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This moisturiser contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid, a BHA ingredient. While topical application of low-concentration salicylic acid is generally considered low risk, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding BHA products during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Oral salicylates are contraindicated during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor or midwife before using any products containing salicylic acid while pregnant or nursing.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including fatty acids (Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid), esters (C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Propylene Glycol Isostearate), and Glyceryl Stearate. If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, look for alternatives with a simpler ingredient list that avoids fatty acids and esters.
Since this moisturiser already contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA), be cautious when layering with other exfoliating acids (AHA, additional BHA) or retinol to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. You can alternate — use this moisturiser in the morning and retinol at night, for example. Vitamin C serums can generally be used alongside this product without issues, but introduce gradually. If you experience redness, peeling, or stinging, reduce the frequency of active products.
This moisturiser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The oil-free, lightweight formula provides hydration without adding shine, while salicylic acid helps manage breakouts. It also works well for normal skin. However, if you have very dry skin, you may find it insufficiently hydrating on its own and might need to layer a richer moisturiser on top, especially at night.
You should notice softer, more hydrated skin immediately. For acne-fighting benefits, most users see a reduction in blackheads and blemishes within 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use. Full results, including a significant decrease in breakout frequency and improved skin clarity, typically appear after 6–8 weeks. Some initial purging (small breakouts) in the first 1–2 weeks is normal as the salicylic acid clears congested pores.
Apply after cleansing and toning (and after any serums or treatments). This moisturiser should be one of the last steps in your routine, followed only by sunscreen in the morning. At night, it can be your final step or layered under a richer night cream if you have dry patches. Use morning and evening for best results.
This moisturiser has a comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5, which is considered low. It is specifically formulated to be oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it is designed not to clog pores. Most users with oily and acne-prone skin tolerate it well. However, individual skin reactions can vary — some ingredients like Cetyl Alcohol (rated 2) may cause issues for extremely clog-prone individuals. If you notice new breakouts, discontinue use.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within 12 months for best efficacy and safety. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the formula from light and air exposure. Many users report that a single 100ml tube lasts 3–4 months with twice-daily use, so you should comfortably use the full product well within its shelf life.
Verdict: The Clean & Clear Dual Action Moisturiser is an outstanding value pick for oily and acne-prone skin. At under £4 for 100ml, it delivers proven blemish-fighting power through 0.5% Salicylic Acid alongside lightweight, oil-free hydration. The fragrance-free UK formulation is a welcome touch for sensitive skin. While it won't replace a dedicated treatment for severe acne and may not be hydrating enough for dry skin, it excels as an everyday moisturiser that keeps breakouts at bay. A reliable, no-nonsense staple that has earned its loyal following over decades of use.
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 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclomethicone
Antistatic Agent, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Humectant, Solvent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|