Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel
Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A powerful micro-exfoliating gel cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and LHA that deeply unclogs pores, reduces persistent imperfections, and controls excess sebum for clearer, smoother skin on both face and body.
Micro-Exfoliating Action
Combines Salicylic Acid with LHA for gentle yet effective exfoliation that smooths skin texture without irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMicro-Exfoliating Action
Combines Salicylic Acid with LHA for gentle yet effective exfoliation that smooths skin texture without irritation.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Oil-soluble BHA penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, blackheads, and impurities.
Sebum Control
Zinc Gluconate helps regulate excess oil production for a mattified, shine-free complexion.
Anti-Recurrence Formula
Clinically proven to reduce imperfections by up to 51% and prevent breakout recurrence with continued use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% Salicylic Acid. ACOG considers topical SA at 2% or less generally acceptable, but consult your healthcare provider. Avoid chemical peels and high concentrations.
Considered safe for topical use as minimal absorption occurs. Keep product away from areas that may contact baby during nursing.
Free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast.
Hypoallergenic formula tested on sensitive, acne-prone skin. Physiological pH respects skin barrier. Alcohol-free and fragrance-free.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris. The gold standard for treating acne and blackheads.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the intercellular "glue" holding dead skin cells together
- Benefit: Unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, prevents new breakouts
- FDA Status: OTC acne treatment approved at 0.5-2% concentration
LHA (Capryloyl Salicylic Acid) 0.05%Proven
A lipophilic derivative of Salicylic Acid that works more gently at the surface level. Provides micro-exfoliation while being better tolerated by sensitive skin.
- Mechanism: Targets cell-by-cell exfoliation for refined texture
- Benefit: Refines pores, reduces marks, improves skin clarity
- Research: L'Oréal-patented ingredient with extensive clinical backing
Zinc Gluconate 0.2%Proven
A mineral compound that helps regulate sebum production and has antimicrobial properties. Essential for maintaining clear, balanced skin.
- Mechanism: Inhibits 5-alpha reductase enzyme that triggers sebum production
- Benefit: Controls shine, purifies skin, promotes healing
- Research: Clinical studies show zinc reduces inflammatory acne lesions
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, preventing the drying effects that can occur with exfoliating cleansers.
- Benefit: Maintains hydration balance while cleansing
- Safety: Skin-identical ingredient, extremely well-tolerated
La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water PresentSoothing
Sourced from the town of La Roche-Posay in France, this mineral-rich water contains selenium and other trace elements with antioxidant and soothing properties.
- Benefit: Calms skin, provides antioxidant protection
- Heritage: Used for over 100 years in French dermatology
18 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Coco-Betaine, Salicylic Acid, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Zinc Gluconate, Sodium Hydroxide, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Menthol, Polyquaternium-47, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleansing step. For sensitive skin, use 2-3 times per week and alternate with a gentle non-medicated cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Skin
Splash face and/or body with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils.
Lather the Gel
Dispense a coin-sized amount into wet hands and work into a foam between palms.
Massage Gently
Apply to face and/or body using gentle circular motions. Avoid the eye area. Leave on for 30-60 seconds for maximum benefit.
Rinse Thoroughly
Remove completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with excess shine
- You struggle with persistent acne, blackheads, or clogged pores
- You have body acne on back, chest, or shoulders
- You want to improve skin texture and reduce visible pores
- You need a cleanser that targets stubborn imperfections
- You prefer fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're using multiple strong actives (retinoids, AHAs, benzoyl peroxide)
- Your skin barrier is currently compromised or damaged
- You're pregnant and prefer to avoid salicylic acid entirely
- You have aspirin/salicylate allergies
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Controls excess sebum, deep cleans pores, and mattifies without over-stripping. Zinc helps regulate oil production all day.
Effectively targets T-zone congestion and oily areas while glycerin prevents drying out cheeks. Well-balanced formula.
Specifically formulated for this skin type. 2% SA clears existing breakouts and prevents new ones. Clinically proven 51% reduction in imperfections.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Start with 2-3x weekly use. Thermal spring water soothes, but patch test first if very reactive.
May feel too stripping for daily use. Use sparingly (1-2x week) and follow with a rich moisturizer. Better suited for oily skin types.
Great for occasional deep cleansing or preventing breakouts. Use 2-3x weekly to maintain clear pores without over-exfoliating.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Initial Purging & Deep Clean
Skin feels cleaner and fresher immediately. Some may experience minor purging as pores begin to clear. Temporary increase in small breakouts is normal.
70% noticed cleaner skin feelReduced Oiliness & Fewer Breakouts
Sebum production begins to normalize. Existing breakouts start healing faster. Blackheads become easier to remove. Skin texture improving.
65% reported less oily skinVisible Improvement in Imperfections
Clinical studies show up to 51% reduction in imperfections and 57% improvement in marks. Pores appear minimized. Skin looks clearer and brighter.
98% saw reduced imperfectionsLong-term Clarity & Prevention
Anti-recurrence benefits kick in. Breakouts become less frequent. Skin maintains clearer, smoother appearance with continued use.
90% maintained clear skinRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum 2% Salicylic Acid concentration effectively clears pores
- Dual exfoliation with LHA for smoother skin texture
- Works on both face AND body acne
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula
- Zinc helps control excess oil all day
- Clinically proven results in 4 weeks
- Dermatologist recommended brand
- Large 400ml size offers great value
Criticized
- Contains SLES which may concern purists
- Menthol can cause slight tingling sensation
- May be too drying for daily use on dry skin
- Doesn't remove heavy makeup effectively
- Some users experience initial purging
- Can feel tight without moisturizer follow-up
- Not as effective on severe cystic acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 2% Salicylic Acid concentration plus ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Contains hectorite clay for oil absorption. More hydrating formula but lacks LHA micro-exfoliation.
Contains 2% Salicylic Acid with Zinc for oil control. Simpler formula without LHA. More affordable but may not be as gentle on sensitive skin. Smaller bottle size.
Classic 2% Salicylic Acid cleanser at a drugstore price. Contains fragrance and may be more drying. Lacks zinc and LHA. Better suited for very oily skin.
Only 0.5% Salicylic Acid - more gentle for sensitive skin. Contains panthenol for soothing. Better for beginners but less effective on stubborn acne. Fragrance-free.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed between uses.
Squeeze tube (200ml) or pump bottle (400ml) - both dispense product hygienically
200ml size exceeds carry-on limits (100ml). Decant into travel container or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains 2% Salicylic Acid. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical salicylic acid at 2% or less generally acceptable during pregnancy, but you should consult your healthcare provider before use. For breastfeeding, topical use is considered safe as minimal absorption occurs, but avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby during nursing. High-concentration salicylic acid peels should be avoided during both pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Yes! This cleanser is fungal acne safe according to multiple ingredient analysis databases. It is free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. The salicylic acid can actually help with fungal acne by keeping pores clear and preventing the environment where yeast thrives.
Use caution when combining with other actives. Since this cleanser already contains 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid), using additional BHA products may cause over-exfoliation. You can use it with retinol and vitamin C, but start slowly - use the cleanser in AM and retinol in PM, or alternate days. Avoid using immediately before/after AHA products. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or use on alternate days. Always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically designed for those with persistent imperfections, blackheads, enlarged pores, and excess sebum. While it's hypoallergenic and can be used on sensitive skin (2-3x weekly), those with very dry or dehydrated skin may find it too stripping for daily use. It's also excellent for body acne on back, chest, and shoulders.
Most users notice cleaner, fresher-feeling skin after the first use. Initial purging (temporary increase in small breakouts) may occur in weeks 1-2 as pores clear out. Visible improvement in oiliness and breakouts typically appears by week 2-3. Clinical studies show up to 51% reduction in imperfections and 57% improvement in marks after 4 weeks of consistent use. Anti-recurrence benefits become noticeable after 8+ weeks.
Use this as your cleanser - the first step in your routine. Apply to wet skin, massage gently, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner (optional), serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). For double-cleansing, use an oil cleanser or micellar water first to remove makeup/sunscreen, then use this as your second cleanse. Can be used morning and/or evening, though once daily is sufficient for most.
No, this product is non-comedogenic and has been tested on acne-prone skin. It has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). In fact, it's designed to do the opposite - unclog pores with its salicylic acid and LHA content. The formula doesn't contain any heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients. It actively works to dissolve existing clogs and prevent new ones from forming.
This product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. The 200ml size typically lasts 2-3 months with daily face use, while the 400ml size can last 4-6 months. If using for face and body, usage time will be shorter.
Verdict: The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel is an excellent choice for those battling oily, acne-prone skin. With maximum-strength 2% Salicylic Acid combined with LHA for enhanced micro-exfoliation and Zinc for oil control, it delivers on its promises. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin, and its fungal-acne-safe status is a bonus. While it may be too drying for daily use on dry skin types, for its intended audience, this is a dermatologist-backed powerhouse cleanser that genuinely helps reduce breakouts and improve skin texture. The ability to use it on both face and body acne adds excellent versatility and value.
Browse related
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
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.