Eradikate Daily Cleanser
Eradikate Daily Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A clinical-strength daily foaming cleanser powered by 3% Sulfur, formulated to combat blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and acne while preventing new breakouts. Its luxuriously whipped texture purifies and protects without over-drying, keeping pores clear and oil production balanced. Developed at the iconic Kate Somerville Skin Clinic in Hollywood — an Allure 2025 Best of Beauty Award Winner.
3% Clinical-Strength Sulfur
Sulfur at 3% concentration acts as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory to eliminate excess sebum, blemishes, and stubborn sebaceous filaments while gently exfoliating dead skin cells that clog pores.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3% Clinical-Strength Sulfur
Sulfur at 3% concentration acts as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory to eliminate excess sebum, blemishes, and stubborn sebaceous filaments while gently exfoliating dead skin cells that clog pores.
Soothing Botanical Complex
A patented blend of Honey Extract, Rice Bran Extract, and Oat Kernel Extract calms redness, absorbs excess sebum, and supports the skin barrier — so the formula cleanses without stripping.
Antimicrobial Oligopeptide-10
An advanced acne-fighting peptide with proven antibacterial properties that supports visibly clearer-looking skin and helps prevent future breakout formation at the bacterial level.
Doubles as an Acne Mask
Apply a generous layer to congested areas — especially the T-zone and nose — and let sit 2–3 minutes before rinsing. This intensifies the sulfur's pore-decongesting action for stubborn blackheads and sebaceous filaments.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Sulfur (3% OTC active), which is generally considered lower-risk than retinoids or salicylic acid, but is not formally studied in pregnancy. Most dermatologists recommend caution and suggest consulting your OB/GYN before use. Also contains Fragrance (Parfum) and Linalool, which should be minimized during pregnancy. Not recommended as a first-choice cleanser while pregnant or breastfeeding.
This formula contains Honey Extract and Stearyl Alcohol (C18 fatty alcohol), both of which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne. If you suspect pityrosporum folliculitis, consider a dedicated FA-safe sulfur cleanser without these ingredients.
The formula scores a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. While Stearyl Alcohol carries a comedogenicity rating of 2, it is used as an emulsifier in low concentrations. The active sulfur ingredient actually helps decongest pores and reduce comedone formation.
Formulated without parabens, SLS/SLES sulfate surfactants, silicones, or phthalates. Preservatives used are phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin — well-studied and widely considered safe at cosmetic concentrations.
Kate Somerville is a certified cruelty-free brand. Products are not tested on animals and the brand does not sell in markets that require animal testing.
Sulfur and retinol can be drying when combined — use on alternating evenings. Compatible with most vitamin C serums when applied separately. Avoid combining with high-strength AHA or BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation.
Contains Fragrance (Parfum) and Linalool. Those with fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin should patch-test first. The scent is described as light with mild sulfur undertones — most users find it tolerable as a rinse-off product.
Developed at the Kate Somerville Skin Clinic in Hollywood and dermatologist-tested. Clinical studies show 100% of users demonstrated immediate improvements in skin clarity, pore appearance, and oil control with continued use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSulfur 3%Proven Active
The star active ingredient in this medicated cleanser. Sulfur is an FDA-recognized OTC active for acne treatment. It functions as an antimicrobial, keratolytic (gently dissolves dead skin cells), and sebum-absorbing agent — all in one.
- Mechanism: Disrupts bacterial cell membranes of P. acnes (C. acnes) and reduces sebum production, helping to clear existing blemishes and prevent new ones
- Keratolytic action: Gently exfoliates the stratum corneum, unclogging pores and reducing blackhead formation without the harshness of benzoyl peroxide
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce redness and swelling around active blemishes, making it gentler on reactive skin than many alternatives
- Concentration: 3% is the clinically validated minimum effective dose per FDA OTC monograph for acne treatment; higher concentrations (up to 10%) are used in spot treatments
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract traceProven
Colloidal oatmeal is a gold-standard soothing ingredient and FDA-recognized OTC skin protectant. In this cleanser, it counterbalances the potential drying effects of sulfur, making the formula suitable for daily use without stripping moisture.
- Beta-glucan content (~5%): Forms a protective film on skin, reduces transepidermal water loss, and calms inflammation
- Avenanthramides: Phenolic antioxidant compounds unique to oats with clinically demonstrated anti-itch and anti-inflammatory activity
- Lipid-rich (3–11%): Supplies barrier-repairing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to counteract dryness
Honey Extract traceProven
A glycerin-based extract of honey that retains honey's core moisturizing, soothing, and antibacterial properties. It supports the skin barrier and helps offset the drying effects of sulfur, maintaining hydration balance post-cleansing.
- Natural humectant: Attracts and binds moisture to the skin surface, reducing post-cleanse tightness
- Antimicrobial synergy: Honey's hydrogen peroxide and methylglyoxal content complement sulfur's antibacterial action against acne-causing bacteria
- Antioxidant flavonoids: Help reduce oxidative stress in blemish-prone skin, supporting a calmer complexion
Oligopeptide-10 tracePromising
A synthetic antimicrobial peptide specifically designed to target acne-causing bacteria. Oligopeptide-10 is an advanced addition to the formula that complements sulfur's broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity with targeted peptide technology.
- Mode of action: Disrupts bacterial cell membranes of Propionibacterium acnes (C. acnes) through a cationic charge mechanism
- Selectivity: Targets bacteria while being gentle on human skin cells, reducing risk of irritation associated with traditional antibiotic actives
- Synergy: Works alongside sulfur to provide a dual-mechanism approach to acne prevention and treatment
Boswellia Serrata Extract tracePromising
Derived from Indian Frankincense resin, Boswellia Serrata is included for its potent anti-inflammatory boswellic acids. It helps visibly reduce redness around blemishes and supports a calmer complexion with continued use.
- Boswellic acids: Inhibit 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), an enzyme central to inflammatory cascades — comparable in mechanism to some prescription anti-inflammatories
- Elastase inhibitor: Helps protect collagen by inhibiting enzymes that break down skin proteins, offering an ancillary anti-aging benefit
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract traceProven
A multifunctional botanical extract from rice bran that is rich in gamma-oryzanol, ferulic acid, and vitamin E. It helps absorb excess oil, refine the appearance of pores, and provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors.
- Sebum regulation: Gamma-oryzanol has demonstrated ability to reduce sebaceous gland activity, contributing to oil control
- Ferulic acid: A potent antioxidant that helps stabilize other actives in the formula and protects against UV-induced free radical damage
32 ingredients — Active + Inactive listed per FDA OTC labeling requirements
Active Ingredient: Sulfur 3.0%
Inactive Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Coco-Glucoside, Acrylates Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycereth-18 Ethylhexanoate, Glycereth-18, Stearyl Alcohol, Honey Extract (Mel/Extrait de Miel), Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Oligopeptide-10, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Behenyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance/Parfum, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Disodium Carboxyethyl Siliconate, Linalool, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and/or PM as your first cleansing step on wet skin. For double cleansing, use as the second (water-based) cleanse. Follow immediately with a hydrating toner and moisturizer to lock in moisture after sulfur cleansing.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can increase skin sensitivity when using sulfur-based products.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense a pea-to-dime-sized amount of the whipped cleanser onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way — the rich foam expands on contact with water.
Massage Gently for 30 Seconds
Work into a lather using gentle circular motions across your face. Focus on congestion-prone areas like the T-zone, chin, and nose. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly with Cool Water
Rinse completely with cool water and pat dry with a clean towel. Cool water helps close pores and reduces post-cleanse redness.
Pro Tip: Use as a Mask
For stubborn blackheads or congested pores, apply a generous layer to the nose and T-zone and leave on for 2–3 minutes before rinsing. Do this 2–3 times per week for best results on sebaceous filaments.
Continue with Your Routine
Follow with toner, targeted treatments, and moisturizer. For oily or very acne-prone skin, use twice daily (AM and PM). For sensitive or dry skin, start once daily and gradually increase as tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads, sebaceous filaments, or clogged pores
- You want a cleanser that also functions as a treatment step
- You prefer sulfur over benzoyl peroxide (less drying, no bleaching)
- You want to avoid harsh physical scrubs or aggressive chemical exfoliants in your cleanser
- You're FSA/HSA eligible and want a medicated OTC acne product
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — not FA-safe
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — consult your doctor first
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin — sulfur may be too drying
- You are fragrance-sensitive — contains Fragrance (Parfum) and Linalool
- You need a completely scent-free cleanser
- Your acne is primarily inflammatory/cystic — spot treatments may be more effective
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin. Sulfur absorbs excess sebum, oat extract regulates oil production, and the formula leaves skin clean and matte without a greasy residue.
Works very well for combination skin — targets excess oil and congestion in the T-zone while the botanical complex and glycerin support hydration in drier areas.
Primary target skin type. The 3% sulfur + Oligopeptide-10 combination directly addresses bacterial acne, blackheads, and sebaceous filaments. Clinically shown to improve skin clarity from the first use.
Suitable for normal skin, especially if occasional breakouts or clogged pores are a concern. Consider using every other day rather than twice daily to avoid over-purifying.
The soothing oat and honey complex helps, but the presence of Fragrance and Boswellia Serrata essential oils may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test recommended. Start with once-daily use.
Sulfur can be drying for already-dry skin. Glycerin and the botanical complex partially offset this. If you have dry skin with acne, use once daily only and follow with a rich moisturizer immediately after rinsing.
Results timeline
4–8 WEEKSImmediate Clarity & Oil Control
Skin feels deeply cleansed and refreshed. Excess oil and surface impurities are visibly removed. Pores appear temporarily tighter after rinsing. The whipped texture leaves skin comfortable, not stripped.
100% noticed immediate improvement in skin clarityPore Decongestion & Reduced Blackheads
With consistent daily use, blackheads and sebaceous filaments begin to visibly reduce. T-zone shine is noticeably more controlled throughout the day. Skin looks less congested overall.
90% agreed blackheads minimized within 1 weekFewer Breakouts & Smoother Texture
Active blemishes begin to resolve more quickly and new breakouts become less frequent. Skin texture appears smoother as dead skin cell buildup decreases. Redness around existing acne reduces.
~80% report fewer new breakouts by week 4Visibly Clearer, Balanced Complexion
With sustained use, skin achieves a more balanced oil level and noticeably clearer complexion. Pores appear refined. The combination of sulfur and the botanical complex contributes to a calmer, less reactive skin state.
100% week-long improvements in pores and oil control sustainedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically validated 3% sulfur concentration — real results, not just marketing claims
- Luxuriously whipped texture feels more spa-like than a harsh medicated wash
- Effective on blackheads and sebaceous filaments — viral on TikTok for good reason
- Doubles as a targeted mask for congested T-zone areas
- Non-stripping formula — doesn't leave skin tight or over-dried
- Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner 2025
- FSA/HSA eligible as an OTC medicated product
- Cruelty-free and paraben-free formulation
Criticized
- Contains Fragrance (Parfum) — not suitable for those with fragrance allergies
- NOT fungal acne safe — contains Honey Extract and Stearyl Alcohol
- Sulfur scent, though mild in this formulation, is noticeable to some users
- Premium price ($46 for 4oz) compared to basic sulfur cleansers
- Use with caution during pregnancy — not ideal as a first choice
- Can be over-drying if used twice daily on dry or sensitive skin
- Not suitable for purely fungal acne sufferers without modification
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso a sulfur-based foaming cleanser with oat extract — shares the two core actives. Formulation is simpler (fewer botanicals, no Oligopeptide-10), but delivers sulfur + oat for a fraction of the price. A solid entry-level option for sulfur cleansing newbies.
A higher-concentration sulfur product (10%) used as a short-contact mask or spot treatment rather than a daily cleanser. Minimal formulation — no soothing botanicals. Best for experienced sulfur users comfortable diluting or limiting contact time. More drying but much more affordable.
A subscription-model sulfur cleanser with chamomile extract for soothing. Similar positioning to EradiKate (gentle sulfur daily cleanse) but lacks the whipped-foam luxury texture, Oligopeptide-10, and the advanced botanical complex. Packaging and format are more basic. A mid-ground alternative.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEPeter Thomas Roth Acne Clearing Face Wash (2% Salicylic Acid)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The medicated OTC formula with phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin preservatives ensures stability throughout this period. Check the tube for the PAO symbol (open jar icon).
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving in a hot bathroom or shower where steam and temperature fluctuations may degrade the active sulfur ingredient over time.
Tube with flip-top cap. The opaque tube packaging protects the sulfur formula from light degradation. Hygienic and easy to dispense — squeeze a small amount directly onto fingertips or palm.
Yes — the mini size (travel size available at ~1oz) is TSA-compliant and under 100ml for carry-on. The full 4oz (120ml) tube exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit; pack in checked luggage for longer trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The 3% Sulfur active ingredient is an OTC acne treatment, and while it is not in the same high-risk category as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid, it has not been formally studied in pregnant populations. Most board-certified dermatologists recommend pregnant or breastfeeding individuals choose a gentle, non-medicated cleanser as a first option and consult their OB/GYN before using any OTC acne treatment. Additionally, the formula contains Fragrance (Parfum) and Linalool, which are generally advised to be minimized during pregnancy. This cleanser is not our first recommendation for pregnant skin.
No, the EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser is NOT considered safe for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis / malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Honey Extract, which can feed Malassezia yeast, and Stearyl Alcohol (a C18 fatty alcohol), which is also on the potential fungal acne trigger list. While sulfur has some antifungal properties, the overall formula contains enough potentially Malassezia-feeding ingredients that it should be avoided if you have active fungal acne. Consider a simpler sulfur cleanser with a shorter, FA-reviewed ingredient list instead.
Yes, with some precautions. Since this is a rinse-off cleanser, interactions with leave-on actives like retinol, vitamin C, and AHA/BHAs are minimal. However, sulfur itself has mild exfoliating properties, so layering it with high-strength AHA/BHA products in the same routine can lead to over-exfoliation and irritation — particularly for sensitive skin. If using retinol, consider using the EradiKate cleanser in the morning and retinol at night. Vitamin C serums applied after rinsing are generally compatible. Listen to your skin — if you notice increased dryness or sensitivity, alternate usage days.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It was specifically formulated to target excess sebum production, clogged pores, blackheads, and active blemishes — all concerns most prevalent in these skin types. Those with normal skin who experience occasional breakouts will also benefit. It can be used by sensitive or dry skin types with caution — starting with once-daily use and following with a rich moisturizer is advised. It is not recommended as a primary cleanser for very dry, eczema-prone, or fragrance-sensitive skin.
According to clinical testing by Kate Somerville, 100% of users demonstrated an immediate improvement in skin clarity after the first use. Visible improvements in pore appearance and oil control are measurable from Day 1. Blackhead reduction and decongestion of sebaceous filaments are typically noticeable within the first week of consistent daily use, with 90% of users in the brand's studies confirming this. For sustained clearing of acne breakouts and texture improvement, allow 4–8 weeks of twice-daily use. As with all acne treatments, consistency is key — results diminish if use is discontinued.
This is always the first step in your routine — used on wet skin before all other products. In a morning routine: cleanse with EradiKate → toner → serum/treatment → moisturizer → SPF. In an evening routine: if double cleansing, use a cleansing oil or balm first to remove sunscreen and makeup, then use EradiKate as your second cleanse. Follow with toner, targeted treatments, and night moisturizer. Always apply moisturizer after sulfur cleansing to maintain the skin barrier. Per brand directions, follow with the EradiKate Acne Treatment spot treatment for maximum synergy.
No — this cleanser is considered non-comedogenic with an overall rating of 1/5. The formula's active ingredient, sulfur, actually works to prevent and decongest comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by gently exfoliating dead skin cells and absorbing excess sebum. While Stearyl Alcohol carries a theoretical comedogenicity rating of 2, it is used in a supporting emulsifier role at low concentrations in a rinse-off formula — meaning its comedogenic potential in practice is minimal. The vast majority of users report clearer pores, not increased clogging, with regular use of this cleanser.
The EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. You'll find this indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. A 4oz (120ml) tube used twice daily (AM and PM) typically lasts approximately 2–3 months, depending on the amount dispensed per use. Using the product as a cleanser and occasional mask will naturally use it up faster. Store in a cool, dry location away from steam and direct sunlight to maintain product efficacy throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: The Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser is one of the most effective and enjoyable-to-use sulfur cleansers on the market. Its clinical 3% sulfur concentration delivers measurable results against blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and acne from the very first wash, while the luxuriously whipped texture and soothing botanical complex (oat, honey, rice bran, Boswellia) prevent the harsh, stripping experience typically associated with medicated acne cleansers. The bonus of Oligopeptide-10 adds a sophisticated peptide-based antimicrobial layer that most drugstore sulfur washes simply don't offer. The "doubles as a mask" functionality is genuinely useful and beloved by users. Where it loses half a star: it contains Fragrance, is not fungal acne safe, and sits at a premium price point. For anyone with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who wants a true clinical-grade cleanser experience at home — especially one validated by dermatologists and recognized with an Allure Best of Beauty Award — this is a top-tier choice that genuinely earns its reputation.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sulfur
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent -Miscellaneous, Antiseborrhoeic
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|





