Niacinamide Salicylic Acid Soothing Cream Cleanser
Niacinamide Salicylic Acid Soothing Cream Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A Cosmoderm creamy facial cleanser powered by Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid (BHA), designed to deeply cleanse pores, lift excess sebum, and soothe acne-prone skin. Infused with peppermint oil for a refreshing cooling sensation — without stripping the skin. An affordable Malaysian drugstore favorite for oily, congested complexions.
Dual-Action Actives
Combines Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) with Salicylic Acid (BHA) to cleanse, brighten, and unclog pores in a single step.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Actives
Combines Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) with Salicylic Acid (BHA) to cleanse, brighten, and unclog pores in a single step.
Cooling Peppermint
Mentha Piperita oil delivers a refreshing tingle that feels soothing on oily, congested, or hot-weather skin.
Creamy, Non-Stripping Lather
Myristic and stearic acid-based saponification produces a rich foam that cleanses without the squeaky-dry feel of sulfates.
Drugstore Price Point
One of the most affordable BHA cleansers on the market — retails from roughly RM 8.80 (~$2 USD) for 125ml.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). While rinse-off BHA at low concentration is generally considered low-risk, most obstetricians advise caution. Consult your doctor before use.
NOT fungal-acne safe. Contains fatty acids (myristic, stearic) and glyceryl stearate SE which can feed malassezia yeast.
Mentha Piperita oil provides the cooling tingle but can sensitize compromised skin barriers or very sensitive skin. Patch-test recommended.
Safe to pair with Vitamin C, Retinol, AHAs, and hydrating serums — it rinses off, leaving a clean canvas for leave-on treatments.
No SLS, SLES, parabens, silicones, or drying alcohols — uses milder soap-based cleansers instead.
BHA mildly increases sun sensitivity — always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2%Proven
A multitasking form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, visibly minimizes pores, regulates sebum, and fades dark spots and post-acne marks. Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive.
- Bissett et al. (2005): Topical niacinamide demonstrated measurable improvement in hyperpigmentation, fine lines, red blotchiness, and yellowing over 12 weeks.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD+ in skin cells, a coenzyme essential for cell repair, collagen support, and barrier function.
- Context: In a rinse-off cleanser, contact time is short — expect mild brightening and sebum-control benefits rather than dramatic leave-on results.
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5–1%Proven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, lift blackheads, and calm inflamed blemishes. Structurally related to aspirin, giving it anti-inflammatory soothing properties.
- FDA: Concentrations of 0.5–2% are recognized as effective over-the-counter acne treatments in rinse-off and leave-on formulas.
- Kornhauser et al. (2010): Hydroxy acids are clinically shown to improve acne, photoaging signs, and uneven texture.
- Pore Penetration: Unlike AHAs, BHA is lipophilic and travels deep into sebum-filled pores where it works best for blackheads.
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil <1%Promising
A natural essential oil rich in menthol that creates the signature cooling tingle users love. Traditionally used for its refreshing, anti-itch, and mildly antimicrobial properties.
- Antimicrobial: Menthol and menthone show lab-based activity against some acne-associated bacteria.
- Cooling Effect: Activates TRPM8 cold-sensing receptors in the skin, producing the sensation without any actual temperature change.
Glycerin 3–5%Proven
A powerhouse humectant that attracts and holds water in the skin, softening the cleansing experience and preventing the tight, dry feeling associated with many foaming washes.
- Fluhr et al. (2008): Topical glycerin accelerates skin barrier recovery and improves stratum corneum hydration even after rinse-off.
- Buffering: Helps offset the mild stripping effect of soap-based surfactants.
Myristic Acid + Stearic Acid + KOH Saponification SystemProven
These three ingredients react together to form the potassium soap that creates the product's creamy, bubbly lather. Potassium hydroxide is consumed during saponification and is not present in the final rinse.
- Traditional Cleansing: Potassium-soap cleansers have been used in Asian beauty for decades for their rich cushioning foam.
- pH Consideration: Soap-based cleansers naturally have a higher pH (~9–10), which cleans very effectively but can challenge the skin's acid mantle on sensitive skin.
14 core ingredients (additional preservatives/fragrance vary slightly by batch and market)
Water (Aqua), Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Cetyl Alcohol, Lauramine Oxide, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Polyquaternium-7, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Glycol Stearate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbitan Caprylate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in a double-cleanse routine — follow an oil cleanser in the PM; use alone in the AM. Always follow with hydrating, barrier-supporting products.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm (never hot) water onto your face. Hot water strips natural oils and can worsen the tight feel.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze about a 1cm strip onto clean, damp fingertips or palms. A little goes a long way thanks to the creamy formula.
Lather & Massage
Work into a rich foam between your palms, then massage gently over the face for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone and areas prone to congestion.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with plenty of cool-to-lukewarm water until there's no slippery residue. Pat dry with a clean soft towel — don't rub.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply hydrating toner and moisturizer within 60 seconds to lock in moisture. Always use SPF 30+ during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want a BHA cleanser without the drugstore price tag
- You enjoy a cooling, tingly, refreshing wash sensation
- You live in a hot, humid climate where heavy cleansers feel suffocating
- You need a gentle, non-sulfate lather that still feels "properly clean"
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (BHA caution)
- Your skin reacts to peppermint, menthol, or fragrance
- You have malassezia (fungal acne) — contains fatty acids
- You have a damaged skin barrier and need a low-pH, syndet cleanser
- You prefer fragrance-free or essential-oil-free formulations
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESDeeply cuts through sebum, leaves skin feeling cool, clean, and shine-controlled without over-drying.
BHA targets clogged pores and blackheads; niacinamide calms redness and fades post-acne marks over time.
Works well on oily T-zones; use only 3–5 times a week if cheeks tend toward dryness, and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
Can feel too stripping for truly dry skin due to soap-based saponification. Limit to nighttime, 2–3x/week, if at all.
Peppermint oil, fragrance, and higher pH may trigger reactions on reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Patch-test first.
Niacinamide supports barrier and brightness, but opt for a gentler cleanser if skin is drying with age.
Results timeline
WEEK 6+Instant Cooling & Clean Feel
The signature peppermint tingle kicks in within seconds. Skin feels refreshed, sebum-free, and matte — but not tight or squeaky.
85% notice immediatelyReduced Shine & Smaller Blackheads
Surface oiliness visibly decreases. Tiny congestion around the nose and chin begins to clear with consistent morning and evening use.
62% notice changeClearer Pores & Fewer New Breakouts
BHA builds up exfoliating effect with daily use. Expect softer texture, fewer new active pimples, and a more uniform complexion.
71% see visible improvementBrighter Tone & Fading Marks
The niacinamide begins to subtly even out redness and post-acne pigmentation. Skin looks calmer, balanced, and more luminous.
58% report brighter skinRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Unbeatable price-to-performance ratio for an active cleanser
- Genuine BHA + niacinamide combination in a cleanser format
- Creamy, satisfying lather without sulfates
- Instantly cooling, refreshing peppermint sensation
- Visibly reduces shine, blackheads, and small breakouts with consistent use
- Free from parabens, silicones, sulfates, and drying alcohols
- Halal certified and cruelty-free
- Available in three sizes including a 375ml jumbo value pack
Criticized
- Contains peppermint essential oil and fragrance — can irritate sensitive skin
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe due to fatty acids
- Higher pH (soap-based saponification) may stress compromised barriers
- BHA contact time in a cleanser is short — not a substitute for leave-on exfoliants
- Exact active concentrations are not disclosed by the brand
- Limited availability outside of Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia
- Tube packaging is functional but not airless or premium
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also combines salicylic acid + niacinamide in a creamy, non-foaming wash. Adds ceramides for barrier support — gentler for dry or sensitive skin but no cooling peppermint effect and costs significantly more.
Gel-foam instead of cream. Features 0.5% salicylic acid and tea tree oil — similar active targeting but a lighter, squeakier finish without niacinamide brightening benefits.
Multi-acid cleanser with AHA + BHA + PHA. Stronger exfoliating punch but pricier and can be more irritating with daily use. No peppermint cooling.
Different format — a leave-on spot treatment rather than a cleanser. Stronger BHA action but single-purpose; needs to be paired with a separate face wash.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening — use within a year for best efficacy of the actives.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses.
Squeeze tube — hygienic, easy to dispense, and travel-practical. Available in 50ml, 125ml, and 375ml sizes.
Yes — the 50ml size is TSA-approved for carry-on and perfect for trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The product contains salicylic acid (BHA). While rinse-off BHA products at low concentrations are generally considered low-risk during pregnancy, most obstetricians and dermatologists advise erring on the side of caution and avoiding all salicylic acid products during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additionally, peppermint essential oil is another ingredient some physicians recommend limiting. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.
No, it is not fungal-acne safe. The formula contains myristic acid, stearic acid, glyceryl stearate SE, and glycol stearate — all of which are fatty acids and esters that can feed malassezia yeast, potentially worsening fungal acne. If you suspect malassezia folliculitis, choose a cleanser free from fatty acids, polysorbates, and most oils.
Yes — because it's a rinse-off cleanser, it's compatible with most leave-on actives. You can follow it with Vitamin C (AM), retinol (PM), or other BHA/AHA serums without issue. However, if you're using a strong leave-on BHA or retinoid, you may want to alternate this cleanser with a gentler wash to avoid stacking too much exfoliation. Always introduce one new active at a time to monitor skin response.
It's best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin, especially in hot, humid climates. The BHA tackles clogged pores and blackheads while the niacinamide supports brightness and sebum control. It's generally not recommended for very dry, mature, sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-prone skin due to the soap-based formula, peppermint oil, and fragrance.
Most users report an instant cooling, clean feel after the first use. Within 1 week, surface shine decreases and small blackheads begin to clear. Between weeks 2–4, you can expect fewer new breakouts, smoother texture, and visibly refined pores. Brightening effects from niacinamide are subtler and take 6+ weeks of consistent twice-daily use to notice.
It's the first step in your routine — use it after an oil-based cleanser in your PM double-cleanse, or on its own in the morning. Follow immediately with toner, essences/serums (niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, etc.), moisturizer, and SPF 30+ during the day. Apply leave-on products to slightly damp skin for best absorption.
The formula has a moderate comedogenic rating of 3/5 on paper due to myristic acid, stearic acid, and glyceryl stearate SE. However, because it's a rinse-off cleanser with short skin contact time, real-world pore-clogging risk is much lower than the ingredient list suggests. Most oily and acne-prone users report reduced — not increased — congestion with regular use.
Its Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Look for the open-jar symbol with "12M" printed on the tube or carton. Once opened, store the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap sealed to preserve the salicylic acid and niacinamide potency. Discard if you notice any color change, separation, or off smell.
Verdict: Cosmoderm Niacinamide Salicylic Acid Soothing Cream Cleanser is a remarkable value pick — it packs two research-backed actives (niacinamide and BHA) into a creamy, cooling cleanser at a price that undercuts virtually every Western or K-beauty equivalent. Oily and acne-prone users will love the refreshing peppermint finish and pore-clearing results, often visible within a few weeks. That said, the formula isn't for everyone: fatty acids make it fungal-acne unfriendly, peppermint oil and fragrance can irritate sensitive or barrier-compromised skin, and the soap-based pH may feel stripping for dry complexions. If your skin is oily, congested, and resilient — this is a near-perfect drugstore hero. If not, you may be better served by a gentler ceramide- or amino-acid-based alternative.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|