Morning Burst Facial Cleanser
Morning Burst Facial Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
By Clean & Clear — An invigorating, oil-free gel cleanser formulated with BHA (Salicylic Acid), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, and Cucumber Fruit Extract to gently cleanse, exfoliate, and refresh skin. Featuring signature Bursting Beads that release skin-energizing vitamins on contact, this daily face wash removes overnight buildup, unclogs pores, and leaves skin feeling clean, smooth, and ready to face the day — without stripping the moisture barrier.
Bursting Beads Technology
Signature micro-beads burst on contact during lathering, releasing encapsulated vitamins and antioxidants directly onto skin for an energizing cleanse.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBursting Beads Technology
Signature micro-beads burst on contact during lathering, releasing encapsulated vitamins and antioxidants directly onto skin for an energizing cleanse.
BHA Exfoliation (Salicylic Acid)
Oil-soluble BHA penetrates inside pores to dissolve excess sebum, dead skin cells, and impurities — ideal for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Aloe & Cucumber Extracts
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract and Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract deliver soothing, calming, and hydrating benefits to counterbalance the cleansing action.
Moisture-Barrier Friendly
Sorbitol and Glycerin act as humectants to attract and retain moisture during cleansing, preventing the tight, dry feeling often associated with acne cleansers.
MoodScentz™ Aromatherapy
Invigorating citrus fragrance designed with MoodScentz technology to connect scent with mood, helping energize your senses and kick-start your morning routine.
Clean & Conscious Formula
Vegan, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, and dye-free. Comes in a bottle made from 50% recycled plastic. Cruelty-free — not tested on animals.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA). Topical salicylic acid in rinse-off cleansers is considered lower-risk than leave-on products, but many dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend avoiding salicylic acid altogether during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
The ingredient list does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that are known to feed Malassezia. This cleanser is considered fungal-acne safe based on current ingredient analysis.
Oil-free formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Salicylic acid actively helps unclog pores. Comedogenic rating of 1/5 — extremely unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
Contains Parfum (fragrance) and Salicylic Acid, which can cause irritation in highly reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Some users with sensitive skin have reported dryness or mild redness. Patch test recommended before full use.
Salicylic acid (BHA) is one of the gold-standard ingredients for acne prevention. The formula is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and designed specifically to help prevent and reduce breakouts.
As a rinse-off cleanser, it is compatible with both Retinol and Vitamin C serums in your routine. It does not significantly interfere with other actives since it is not left on the skin. No special pairing concerns.
Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser contains no animal-derived ingredients and is not tested on animals. Certified vegan formula.
Clinically tested by dermatologists. Hypoallergenic designation indicates reduced likelihood of causing allergic reactions, though individual sensitivities vary.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60–70%Base
The primary solvent and base of the formula, used to dissolve and deliver all other active and functional ingredients. Purified water ensures formula stability and skin compatibility.
- Function: Universal solvent, formula base, skin hydration medium
- Safety: Completely safe; rated 1 (low concern) by EWG
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate ~3–7%Proven
A mild synthetic surfactant and primary cleansing agent derived from natural alpha-olefins. Creates a rich, conditioning lather that removes excess sebum, dirt, and makeup without the harsh stripping associated with traditional SLS.
- Function: Primary surfactant / cleanser — emulsifies oils and removes impurities
- Mildness: Milder than SLS due to larger water-soluble head group; better for skin barrier
- Research: Less irritating than sodium lauryl sulfate at equivalent concentrations
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine ~1–3%Proven
An amphoteric co-surfactant derived from coconut oil that enhances lather quality, thickens texture, and significantly improves the mildness profile of the formula. Acts as a foam booster and conditioning agent.
- Function: Mild co-surfactant, lather booster, viscosity modifier
- Benefit: Reduces irritation potential of primary surfactants; adds conditioning feel
- Origin: Coconut-derived; considered biodegradable and eco-friendly
Sorbitol ~1–3%Proven
A sugar alcohol humectant sourced from glucose reduction, naturally found in fruits like apples and pears. Draws water to the skin surface to maintain hydration during and after cleansing.
- Function: Humectant — attracts and retains moisture in the skin
- Benefit: Helps prevent the dry, tight feeling often associated with cleansers
- Safety: EWG rating 1 (low concern); excellent tolerability across all skin types
Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate ~0.5–2%Proven
A modified potato starch derivative that forms the structural matrix for the signature Bursting Beads. Functions as a film-former and texture agent, encapsulating vitamins until the beads are physically broken by massage, releasing their contents onto skin.
- Function: Film-former, bead matrix, encapsulation agent, texture modifier
- Benefit: Delivers targeted vitamin release during cleansing routine
- Origin: Potato starch derivative — biodegradable alternative to plastic microbeads
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract ~0.1–1%Proven
Pure aloe vera leaf extract, one of the most well-researched botanical soothing agents in skincare. Delivers anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and skin-calming benefits to offset potential irritation from the BHA and surfactants.
- Function: Soothing, anti-inflammatory, humectant
- Active components: Polysaccharides (acemannan), vitamins C, E, B12, enzymes
- Research: Peer-reviewed studies confirm aloe's effectiveness in reducing skin irritation and improving moisture retention
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract ~0.1–1%Promising
Cucumber fruit extract is rich in vitamins K and C, silica, and antioxidants. Known for its cooling, soothing, and mild skin-brightening properties. Contributes to the refreshing sensation of the cleanser.
- Function: Soothing, antioxidant, mild brightening
- Key components: Vitamin K, cucurbitacins, flavonoids, folic acid
- Benefit: Helps reduce puffiness and calm reactive skin
Glycerin ~0.5–2%Proven
A gold-standard humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. One of the most well-researched moisturizing ingredients in cosmetic science, effective even at low concentrations in rinse-off products.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning, barrier-supporting
- Research: Studies show glycerin improves skin hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Safety: EWG rating 1 (low concern); suitable for all skin types
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
The stable ester form of Vitamin E, a powerful lipid-soluble antioxidant that protects skin cells from oxidative stress caused by environmental aggressors (UV, pollution). Delivered via the Bursting Beads for a vitamin boost during cleansing.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin-conditioning, free radical neutralizer
- Stability: Acetate form is more stable than pure tocopherol; converts to active Vitamin E on skin
- Research: Established role in photoprotection and skin barrier maintenance
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5–2%Proven
The star active ingredient — a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) with proven oil-soluble exfoliation. Unlike AHAs, salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve the sebum and dead cell buildup that causes blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. An FDA-recognized over-the-counter acne treatment.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant (BHA), anti-inflammatory, comedolytic, keratolytic
- Mechanism: Disrupts desmosomes between corneocytes; solubilizes sebum plugs inside pores
- FDA status: Recognized OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2% concentration
- Research: Multiple double-blind studies confirm efficacy in reducing acne lesion counts
Mannitol ~0.5–2%Proven
A sugar alcohol that serves dual purposes: it acts as a humectant to help maintain skin moisture and as a structural component in the Bursting Bead matrix. Also functions as an antioxidant by scavenging hydroxyl free radicals.
- Function: Humectant, antioxidant, bead texture agent
- Benefit: Contributes to the tactile "burst" sensation of the beads dissolving
Cellulose ~0.5–1%Proven
Plant-derived polysaccharide that forms the outer shell of the biodegradable Bursting Beads alongside Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose. Provides texture control and acts as a gentle physical structure in the formula.
- Function: Bead shell former, viscosity modifier, texture agent
- Origin: Derived from plant cell walls — natural and biodegradable
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A semi-synthetic cellulose polymer used as a film-former and bead structural agent. Provides the outer coating of the Bursting Beads that holds them intact during storage but releases easily when rubbed between fingers and skin.
- Function: Film-former, bead coating polymer, viscosity modifier
- Safety: Widely used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics; excellent safety profile
19 ingredients
Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sorbitol, Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate, Acrylates Crosspolymer-4, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Mannitol, Cellulose, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Salicylic Acid, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Parfum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in your morning routine. Apply to wet face, massage gently for 30–60 seconds (allowing Bursting Beads to break), then rinse thoroughly. Always follow with moisturizer and SPF in the AM.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face & Hands
Splash your face thoroughly with lukewarm water. Wet your hands before dispensing the cleanser. Avoid very hot water as it can strip natural oils and worsen dryness.
Dispense & Apply
Squeeze a small amount (about a nickel-sized amount) onto your fingertips. Apply to your face, avoiding the delicate eye area. You will see the colorful Bursting Beads in the gel.
Massage & Let Beads Burst
Gently massage the cleanser in circular motions across your entire face for 30–60 seconds. As you massage, the Bursting Beads will break open, releasing vitamins and antioxidants onto your skin. The formula will lather into a soft foam.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no product residue remains. Incomplete rinsing can leave surfactants on skin that may cause irritation.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat (do not rub) your face dry with a clean towel. Immediately follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration. Do not skip SPF in the morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want a BHA cleanser to help prevent breakouts and unclog pores
- You love an invigorating, energizing morning skincare experience
- You're a teenager or young adult dealing with hormonal acne
- You want an affordable, drugstore cleanser with proven actives
- You prefer a vegan, paraben-free, and cruelty-free formula
- You enjoy a citrus scent that helps you feel awake and refreshed
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (Salicylic Acid caution)
- You have extremely dry or dehydrated skin that needs a cream cleanser
- You have severe rosacea or highly reactive/sensitized skin
- You are fragrance-sensitive or allergic to Parfum
- You prefer an unscented skincare routine
- You need a makeup-removing double-cleanse product
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin. BHA targets excess sebum inside pores, the oil-free formula won't add shine, and the foaming lather thoroughly removes overnight grease buildup.
Works beautifully on combination skin — controls the oily T-zone while the humectant blend (Sorbitol, Glycerin) keeps drier cheek areas from feeling tight.
BHA (Salicylic Acid) is the go-to ingredient for acne. Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and designed to prevent breakouts. Many users report visible reduction in blackheads with regular use.
A solid everyday cleanser for normal skin. Effectively removes impurities without over-stripping. Follow with moisturizer to maintain balance.
Use with caution on dry skin. While humectants help, the surfactants and BHA may cause tightness or flaking for some. Limit to once daily and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
May be too active for very sensitive or reactive skin due to Salicylic Acid and Parfum. Patch test recommended. Rosacea-prone users should consider a fragrance-free, BHA-free alternative.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Freshness & Cleanliness
From the very first wash, skin feels thoroughly clean, refreshed, and energized. The citrus scent and Bursting Bead experience provide an immediate mood-lifting sensory benefit. Skin appears less oily after rinse.
95% noticedReduced Surface Oil & Minimized Pores
With consistent twice-daily use, oily skin types begin to notice a reduction in excess shine throughout the day. Pores appear slightly less congested as the BHA begins dissolving surface-level buildup.
70% noticedFewer Breakouts & Clearer Skin
Salicylic acid's comedolytic effect begins to show measurable results. Reduction in blackheads, whiteheads, and minor breakouts becomes more noticeable. Skin texture appears smoother and more even.
60% noticedMaintained Clarity & Balanced Skin
Long-term users report sustained improvement in overall skin clarity, fewer clogged pores, and a more balanced, healthy-looking complexion. Skin adapts to the formula without increasing dryness over time.
50% noticedRatings by platform
8K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Invigorating, energizing morning experience with Bursting Beads
- BHA effectively unclogs pores and prevents breakouts
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic — rinses clean without residue
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Vegan, paraben-free, and cruelty-free
- Citrus scent is uplifting and energizing
- Aloe and cucumber extracts add calming, soothing benefits
- Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic designation
- Biodegradable beads — not plastic microbeads
- Works well for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin
Criticized
- Contains Parfum — not suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Can be drying for dry or very sensitive skin with daily use
- Not safe for use during pregnancy due to Salicylic Acid
- Mixed results for severe or cystic acne — not a treatment product
- Scent may be too strong or overwhelming for some preferences
- Bursting Beads may not suit minimalist skincare enthusiasts
- Not a makeup remover — best used after an oil cleanser in double-cleanse routine
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso contains BHA (Salicylic Acid 2%), oil-free, similar citrus-fresh scent profile. Slightly higher salicylic acid concentration. No Bursting Beads but very similar cleansing performance and pore-clearing results at a comparable or lower price.
Fragrance-free, contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for superior barrier support. No BHA, so less effective for acne prevention — but a gentler option for those who find Morning Burst too drying. Better choice for sensitive or combination-dry skin types.
Contains Salicylic Acid 0.5% with a gentler, more soothing formula featuring oat extract. Fragrance-free version available — ideal for acne-prone users who need BHA but find Morning Burst too fragrant or drying. Less energizing feel but less irritating for sensitive-combination skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol (open jar icon) on the packaging for the manufacturer's recommended period.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing in a hot, humid shower environment for extended periods as this can degrade the formula and beads faster.
Squeeze tube / bottle format. The current version is packaged in a recyclable bottle made from 50% post-consumer recycled plastic — a sustainable packaging initiative by Clean & Clear.
Yes — the standard 8 fl. oz bottle exceeds TSA 3.4 oz liquid limit. Transfer to a travel-sized container (under 100 ml / 3.4 fl. oz) for carry-on airline travel compliance.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is flagged as a caution ingredient during pregnancy. While the concentration in a rinse-off cleanser is significantly lower-risk than leave-on BHA products, most dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend avoiding salicylic acid entirely during pregnancy as a precaution — particularly during the first trimester. During breastfeeding, topical use in a rinse-off product poses minimal systemic absorption risk, but it is always best to consult your healthcare provider before continuing use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Consider switching to a Salicylic-Acid-free cleanser during this time.
Yes — based on current ingredient analysis, Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula does not contain fermented extracts, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or plant oils that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The cleansing agents (Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine) are not known triggers for fungal acne. If you are managing active Malassezia folliculitis, this cleanser can be used as part of your routine.
Yes, as a rinse-off cleanser, it is compatible with virtually all leave-on actives in your routine. Because the product is washed off, there is no significant interaction with retinol, vitamin C serums, AHA toners, or additional BHA treatments applied afterward. However, be mindful of cumulative exfoliation: since this cleanser already contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), applying additional BHA or AHA toners/serums immediately after may increase the risk of over-exfoliation and irritation, especially for sensitive skin. If you are using a strong retinol or retinoid prescription, monitor for any signs of sensitivity and reduce frequency if needed.
Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The BHA (Salicylic Acid) targets excess sebum and clogged pores — the primary concerns for these skin types. Normal skin users also do well with this cleanser. It is moderately suitable for dry skin when used once daily and followed immediately with a hydrating moisturizer. It is not ideal for very dry, dehydrated, eczema-prone, or highly sensitive skin due to the fragrance and potential drying effect of the surfactants and BHA.
Most users experience immediate results from the first use in terms of skin feeling clean, refreshed, and less oily throughout the day. For pore-clearing and breakout prevention, consistent use over 2–4 weeks is typically required before noticeable improvements in acne and blackhead reduction become visible. Salicylic acid's comedolytic effects are cumulative — building up over daily use. For maximum results, use twice daily (morning and evening) and pair with a suitable non-comedogenic moisturizer and SPF in the morning. Full skin clarity improvements are typically observed after 4–8 weeks of consistent use.
As its name implies, this is best used as Step 1 of your morning skincare routine — as your first cleanser on clean (non-makeup-covered) skin after waking. Use it after splashing your face with water. The recommended routine order is: (1) Morning Burst Cleanser → (2) Toner/Essence → (3) Serum → (4) Eye Cream → (5) Moisturizer → (6) SPF Sunscreen. It can also be used as a second step in a double-cleanse evening routine (after an oil cleanser that removes makeup), but note that twice-daily BHA exposure may be too much for dry or sensitive skin types.
No — Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser is officially labeled as non-comedogenic and oil-free. Its comedogenic rating is approximately 1 out of 5 (very low). Furthermore, the active ingredient Salicylic Acid (BHA) actively works to unclog pores by dissolving sebum and dead cell buildup inside the follicle. The formula contains no known pore-clogging oils, waxes, or heavy emollients. It rinses off cleanly without leaving a film. This product is highly unlikely to clog pores for the vast majority of users, including those with acne-prone skin.
Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser has a recommended Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This means once you open the bottle, it should be used within 12 months for optimal efficacy and safety. The PAO symbol (an open jar icon with a number followed by "M") can be found on the product packaging. To maximize shelf life, store the bottle in a cool, dry location — avoid leaving it in a hot, steamy shower for extended periods, which can accelerate degradation of the bead structure and active ingredients. An 8 fl. oz bottle typically lasts 2–4 months with twice-daily use, well within the 12-month window.
Verdict: Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser is an excellent, affordable drugstore BHA cleanser that genuinely delivers on its core promise: a refreshing, energizing morning cleanse that effectively removes oil, unclogs pores, and helps prevent breakouts. The signature Bursting Beads technology is a differentiating sensory experience, and the combination of Salicylic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Cucumber Extract, and Glycerin makes this a well-rounded formula for its price point. It is outstanding for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The main limitations are the presence of Parfum (not ideal for sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin), a caution flag for pregnancy due to the BHA, and potential dryness for dry skin types with twice-daily use. At under $10 for 8 fl. oz, it represents exceptional value for anyone seeking a morning BHA cleanser that truly wakes up both your skin and your senses.
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate
|
|







