Eradikate Daily Foaming Cleanser
Eradikate Daily Foaming Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser is a clinical-strength, medicated face wash powered by 3% Sulfur, the maximum OTC concentration allowed for acne treatment in the US. Developed at the iconic Kate Somerville Skin Clinic in Hollywood, this whipped, luxurious foam targets blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and active breakouts while a botanical complex of Honey, Oat, Rice Bran, and Boswellia soothes redness and prevents over-drying. An Allure Best of Beauty Award winner and TikTok-viral cult favorite for acne-prone skin.
Antibacterial Action
3% Sulfur targets C. acnes bacteria, the primary trigger of inflammatory pimples and breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
3% Sulfur targets C. acnes bacteria, the primary trigger of inflammatory pimples and breakouts.
Unclogs Pores
Keratolytic action loosens dead skin and dissolves blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and clogged pores.
Sebum-Balancing
Oat Kernel and Rice Bran extracts absorb excess oil without stripping or triggering rebound shine.
Soothes Redness
Honey Extract and Boswellia Serrata calm inflammation, making it gentler than benzoyl peroxide.
Doubles as a Mask
Leave on for 2–3 minutes on the T-zone to deeply target sebaceous filaments and congested pores.
Pregnancy-Friendly Active
Sulfur is on the ACOG list of safer acne ingredients for pregnancy and breastfeeding (consult your OB).
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical sulfur is recognized by ACOG as a safer acne option during pregnancy and lactation. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone in this formula.
Sulfur has natural antifungal properties. Formula contains no fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or known Malassezia triggers above C13.
Rinse-off cleanser with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Free of pore-clogging mineral oil, coconut oil, and isopropyl myristate.
Sulfur can sting and irritate mucous membranes. Apply only to face, neck, chest, or back, and rinse thoroughly.
Avoid pairing with benzoyl peroxide, high-strength retinoids, or AHA/BHA cleansers in the same routine to prevent over-drying.
Includes Parfum and Linalool. Very fragrance-sensitive or rosacea-prone skin should patch test first.
Sulfur is not photosensitizing, but daily SPF 30+ is essential when treating acne to prevent post-inflammatory dark marks.
Elemental sulfur is chemically distinct from sulfa drugs and sulfites, but those with severe allergies should consult a dermatologist before use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSulfur 3%Proven
The hero active and only FDA-recognized OTC drug ingredient in the formula. Sulfur works via three mechanisms: it's keratolytic (softens and sheds dead skin from clogged pores), antibacterial (suppresses Cutibacterium acnes), and antifungal (effective against Malassezia, the cause of fungal acne).
- Concentration: 3% is the maximum FDA-allowed OTC level for sulfur acne treatments.
- Research: A 2013 review in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology confirms sulfur's keratolytic and antibacterial benefits with low systemic absorption.
- Pregnancy: Listed by ACOG as Generally Recognized As Safe for topical use during pregnancy and lactation.
Honey Extract ~2-3%Promising
A natural humectant that draws moisture into skin while offering mild antibacterial support. In this formula, it counterbalances the drying potential of sulfur and helps maintain barrier function.
- Function: Hydrating, soothing, mildly antimicrobial, and antioxidant-rich.
- Skin benefit: Helps prevent the tight, squeaky feeling typical of sulfur cleansers.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract ~1-2%Promising
Rice bran is naturally rich in tocopherols (vitamin E), ferulic acid, and squalene. It absorbs excess sebum, refines the look of pores, and provides antioxidant protection while being non-irritating.
- Active compounds: Gamma-oryzanol, tocotrienols, ferulic acid.
- Skin benefit: Sebum balance and antioxidant defense without comedogenic risk.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract ~1-2%Proven
A long-established skin-soothing botanical with anti-itch and anti-inflammatory properties. Contains avenanthramides, polyphenols unique to oats that calm redness and reduce histamine response.
- Source: Colloidal oat is recognized by the FDA as an OTC skin protectant.
- Synergy: Counters the potential irritation that sulfur can cause in sensitive users.
Oligopeptide-10 <1%Promising
A short-chain antimicrobial peptide also known as Granactive Acne. Studies suggest it inhibits Propionibacterium acnes growth and supports clearer skin without antibiotic resistance concerns.
- Function: Acne-fighting peptide that complements sulfur's antibacterial action.
- Trend: Gaining traction as a gentle, modern alternative to traditional acne actives.
Boswellia Serrata Extract <1%Promising
Also known as Indian Frankincense. Contains boswellic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase. Helps reduce visible redness and irritation in acne-prone skin.
- Mechanism: Inhibits inflammatory leukotriene synthesis at the skin surface.
- Use case: Particularly helpful for acne with surrounding redness or for rosacea-prone skin.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate + Coco-Glucoside ~5-10%Proven
The cleansing duo behind the cult-loved whipped foam. Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is recognized as one of the mildest surfactants ever developed — used in dermatologist-recommended syndet bars — while Coco-Glucoside is a sugar-derived cleanser that delivers stable, biodegradable lather.
- Why it matters: Replaces harsh SLS/SLES with barrier-friendly cleansing agents.
- Texture impact: Creates the signature creamy whipped foam without stripping the skin barrier.
32 ingredients
Active: Sulfur 3%. Inactive: Water, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Coco-Glucoside, Acrylates Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycereth-18 Ethylhexanoate, Glycereth-18, Stearyl Alcohol, Honey Extract, Oryza Sativa Bran Extract, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, Oligopeptide-10, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Behenyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Disodium Carboxyethyl Siliconate, Linalool, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, CI 77891, CI 77491.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as yourfirst step after makeup removal in AM and PM. For best results, follow with EradiKate Acne Treatment as a leave-on spot solution and a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto clean hands and your face. Cool water also works and may feel less drying.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
A small amount goes a long way thanks to the whipped foam. Roll the product gently between damp palms to lather.
Massage for 30 Seconds
Work the foam over your face in circular motions, focusing on oily and acne-prone zones. Avoid the eye area.
Optional: Use as a Mask
Pro tip from Kate: leave the lather on the T-zone for 2–3 minutes to deep-clean sebaceous filaments before rinsing.
Rinse Thoroughly & Pat Dry
Rinse with cool water until completely clean, then pat (don't rub) dry with a clean towel. Follow with the rest of your routine.
Adjust Frequency If Needed
Start once daily. If skin tolerates it, increase to AM and PM. Cut back if any tightness, peeling, or sensitivity occurs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with persistent blackheads or sebaceous filaments on the nose and chin
- You have hormonal, cystic, or chronic adult acne
- Your skin is oily or combination and shines by midday
- Benzoyl peroxide bleaches your fabrics or is too irritating
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe acne option
- You want a cleanser-mask hybrid that targets congested pores
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) breakouts
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, dehydrated, or compromised skin barrier
- You're highly sensitive to fragrance or have allergies to Linalool
- You're already using strong actives (high-% retinoids, BPO) that may compound dryness
- You dislike the natural mineral scent of sulfur
- Your acne is mild or limited to occasional spots (a gentler cleanser may suffice)
- You have severe rosacea with active flares (patch test first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSulfur and oat extract reduce excess sebum without stripping. The whipped foam deeply cleans pores while keeping shine in check throughout the day.
Targets the oily T-zone and breakouts while honey and glycerin help cheeks stay comfortable. Use as a localized mask on the nose for sebaceous filaments.
3% sulfur is clinically proven to reduce inflammatory and comedonal acne. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and effective on hormonal and cystic breakouts.
Effective for occasional breakouts and pore decongesting, but may be more product than needed for clear skin. Limit to 2–3 times weekly to avoid dryness.
Use only on acne-affected areas or alternate with a gentler cleanser. Always follow with a rich moisturizer to offset sulfur's drying effect.
Contains fragrance and Linalool. Patch test first. Boswellia and oat help offset irritation, but very reactive skin may prefer fragrance-free sulfur alternatives.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSCleaner, Less Shiny Skin
Skin feels deeply cleansed without that tight, stripped sensation. Visible reduction in surface oil and a smoother feel after rinsing.
100% noticed (Kate Somerville clinical study)Pores Look Decongested
Blackheads and sebaceous filaments visibly diminish, especially on the nose and chin. Existing pimples flatten faster, and overall skin clarity improves.
90% saw blackhead reductionFewer New Breakouts
Sulfur's antibacterial action reduces the formation of new pimples. Cysts become less frequent, and post-inflammatory redness fades faster.
~78% report fewer breakoutsSmoother Skin Texture
Refined pore appearance, more even tone, and balanced sebum production. Many users describe their skin as "calm and clear" for the first time in years.
~85% see improved clarityLong-Term Maintenance
Sustained acne control with minimal flare-ups. Pore appearance and oil balance are well maintained as long as use is consistent.
~70% repurchase rateRatings by platform
8K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum-strength 3% sulfur — clinical-grade acne treatment in a daily cleanser
- Visibly reduces blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and pore congestion
- Pregnancy- and breastfeeding-safe alternative to salicylic acid and retinoids
- Doubles as a 2–3 minute spot mask for stubborn T-zone congestion
- Whipped, luxurious texture far more pleasant than typical medicated washes
- Free from SLS/SLES, parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil
- Fungal-acne safe (no fatty acid esters, polysorbates above C13)
- FSA/HSA eligible as an OTC acne drug
- Allure Best of Beauty award winner with strong dermatologist reputation
Criticized
- Premium price tag (~$38–$46 for 4 fl oz / 120 ml)
- Faint sulfur smell that can be off-putting before rinsing
- Contains added Parfum and Linalool — not ideal for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Can be drying if used twice daily on already dry or sensitive skin
- Bottle size feels small relative to luxury price point
- Tinted formula may leave slight residue on light fabrics if not rinsed thoroughly
- Not the best choice for very mild acne (overkill)
- Results require consistency — not an overnight fix for cystic acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUses salicylic acid instead of sulfur for similar pore-decongesting results, supplemented by tea tree oil and willow bark. Not pregnancy-friendly, but a strong daily option for oily and acne-prone skin at one-third the price.
Drugstore sulfur products at a fraction of the cost. Higher sulfur concentration but a far less elegant texture and stronger smell. Same active mechanism — sulfur lowers C. acnes bacteria and unclogs pores.
A drugstore acne cleanser with benzoyl peroxide instead of sulfur. More aggressive antibacterial action but harsher and may bleach fabric. Not pregnancy-preferred, while EradiKate is.
A creamy foam cleanser with ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Different active ingredient (BPO vs sulfur) but a similarly mild texture. Better for those who tolerate BPO well and want barrier-friendly hydration.
A gel cleanser with 2% salicylic acid and zinc compounds for oil control. Targets the same concerns (blackheads, congestion) but via BHA exfoliation instead of sulfur. Not safe in pregnancy.
Dermatologist-formulated, fragrance-free sulfur cleanser at maximum 10% concentration. Same active class as EradiKate but stronger, simpler ingredient list, and explicitly marketed as pregnancy- and rosacea-safe.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Kate Somerville EradiKate (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. As an OTC drug, also check the printed expiration date on the bottle.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving in a hot or steamy bathroom for extended periods.
Squeeze tube with a flip-top cap. Hygienic, easy to dose, and prevents air contamination of the formula.
Yes — 120ml is at the TSA carry-on limit. A 30ml mini size is also available for safer in-flight travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical sulfur is one of the few acne actives generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) lists topical sulfur as a recognized safer option for treating acne in expectant and nursing mothers. EradiKate also avoids salicylic acid, retinoids, and hydroquinone, which are typically restricted during pregnancy. That said, it does contain Parfum and Linalool, so always confirm with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding any new product to your routine.
Yes. Sulfur itself has natural antifungal properties and is often recommended for Malassezia-driven (fungal) acne. The formula does not contain fatty acid esters, polysorbates above C13, or oils that typically feed Malassezia. Because it's also a wash-off cleanser, the contact time is short. Many users with fungal acne report success using it as a daily cleanser and a 3–5 minute mask on affected areas.
Generally yes, but be cautious about layering too many actives. Sulfur is moderately drying and pairing it with strong retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or high-strength AHA/BHA the same evening can lead to irritation or barrier damage. A safer approach is to use EradiKate in the morning and reserve actives like retinol or AHAs for the evening. Vitamin C in the morning is generally compatible, though sensitive users may want to alternate days. Always introduce one new product at a time.
EradiKate is best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin, especially those struggling with blackheads, sebaceous filaments, hormonal breakouts, or fungal acne. Normal skin can use it occasionally or as a targeted mask. Dry and very sensitive skin types should use it sparingly — perhaps a few times per week or only on breakout zones — and always follow with a hydrating moisturizer to offset sulfur's drying effect.
Most users notice cleaner, less shiny skin after the very first use, with visible blackhead reduction within one week. The brand's clinical study reports 100% of users saw immediate improvement in shine, pore appearance, and oil control, with 90% noting fewer blackheads after one week. Significant improvements in active acne typically appear by weeks 2–4, with full long-term results visible after 6–8 weeks of consistent use. Cystic and hormonal acne may take longer to fully resolve.
EradiKate is the first step of your routine after any oil-based makeup remover (if needed). Use it on damp skin morning and/or evening for 30 seconds, then rinse and follow with toner, treatments (such as the EradiKate Acne Treatment), serums, moisturizer, and SPF in the morning. For deeper pore-clearing, leave it on as a mask for 2–3 minutes once or twice a week before rinsing.
No. EradiKate is non-comedogenic with an estimated comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and contains no mineral oil, coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, or other ingredients commonly linked to clogged pores. As a rinse-off product, contact time is also brief, further reducing any pore-clogging risk.
EradiKate has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Used as a daily cleanser (AM and PM), the 4 fl oz / 120 ml bottle typically lasts about 2–3 months. As an FDA-regulated OTC drug product, it also carries a printed expiration date — check this on the packaging and avoid use beyond it for guaranteed efficacy.
Verdict: Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser earns its cult-favorite reputation. With a clinical-grade 3% sulfur active (the highest OTC concentration available), a barrier-friendly surfactant base, and soothing botanical extras like honey, oat, and Boswellia, it delivers genuine acne-fighting power without the harshness of benzoyl peroxide. It's one of the few effective acne washes that's also pregnancy-safe and fungal-acne friendly. The trade-offs — premium pricing and a faint sulfur scent — are real but manageable.Best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin tackling stubborn blackheads, sebaceous filaments, or hormonal breakouts.
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 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|







