Oil And Acne Care Face Wash
Oil And Acne Care Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A men's foaming face wash formulated with Salicylic Acid, Zinc Gluconate, and Kaolin Clay to deeply cleanse pores, control excess oil, and fight acne breakouts while maintaining skin hydration with Saccharide Isomerate and Mediterranean botanical extracts.
Pure Cleanse Technology
Deep pore cleansing formula with Kaolin Clay and Salicylic Acid that removes excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells without stripping skin moisture.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPure Cleanse Technology
Deep pore cleansing formula with Kaolin Clay and Salicylic Acid that removes excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells without stripping skin moisture.
HydroBalance Complex
Saccharide Isomerate and Glycerin work together to lock in moisture, preventing the tight and dry feeling common with acne cleansers.
Mediterranean Sage Extract
Salvia Officinalis leaf extract helps reduce and prevent acne breakouts while calming redness and irritation on active blemishes.
French Cypress Extract
Cupressus Sempervirens fruit extract naturally regulates excess sebum production, keeping your face matte and shine-free for longer.
Zinc Gluconate Anti-Acne
Clinically studied zinc salt that fights acne-causing P. acnes bacteria, regulates sebum, and supports wound healing for faster blemish recovery.
Cooling Menthol Sensation
Menthol and Menthyl Lactate deliver a refreshing cooling effect that invigorates the skin and helps reduce inflammation after cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA). While the concentration is low and it is a rinse-off product, consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding as a precaution.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Stearic Acid, Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Polysorbate 20, and PEG-3 Distearate which can feed Malassezia yeast.
Low-moderate comedogenic risk. Contains Myristic Acid and Lauric Acid which are potentially pore-clogging, but as a rinse-off product the risk is significantly reduced.
Contains Fragrance, Menthol, and Menthyl Lactate which may irritate very sensitive or reactive skin. Patch test recommended before first use.
Fully halal certified product from Paragon Technology and Innovation. All ingredients comply with Islamic permissibility standards.
Safe to use with retinol and Vitamin C in your routine since this is a rinse-off cleanser. Apply your actives after cleansing and drying your face.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5-2%Proven
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, exfoliate dead skin cells, and reduce inflammation. The gold standard for treating acne and blackheads.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble BHA penetrates pore lining to dissolve sebum and debris from within
- FDA Status: Recognized as an OTC acne treatment active at 0.5-2% concentration
- Clinical Evidence: Extensively studied for reducing comedonal and inflammatory acne lesions
Zinc Gluconate ~1-2%Proven
A zinc salt with clinically demonstrated anti-acne properties. Provides antibacterial action against P. acnes, regulates sebum production via 5-alpha reductase inhibition, and supports wound healing.
- Clinical Study: Shown to achieve 31.2% improvement in inflammatory acne lesions
- Mechanism: Antibacterial + sebum-regulating (5α-reductase inhibitor) + antioxidant enzyme stimulation
- Bonus: Promotes wound healing in the proliferation phase, helping blemishes resolve faster
Kaolin (White Clay) ~2-5%Proven
A naturally occurring white clay mineral that acts as an oil-absorbing agent. Draws out impurities from pores and helps mattify the skin without over-drying.
- Action: Physically absorbs excess sebum and surface oil from skin
- Gentleness: Milder than Bentonite clay, suitable for daily use in a wash-off formula
- Pore Cleansing: Helps lift dirt and debris from pore openings for a deeper clean
Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf ExtractPromising
Mediterranean Sage extract with natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps reduce acne breakouts, calm redness, and soothe irritated skin.
- Antibacterial: Contains compounds that inhibit acne-causing bacteria growth
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce redness and swelling associated with active acne
- Antioxidant: Rich in rosmarinic acid and other polyphenols that protect skin from oxidative damage
Cupressus Sempervirens (Cypress) Fruit ExtractPromising
French Cypress extract traditionally used for its astringent and oil-reducing properties. Helps tighten pores and regulate excessive sebum production.
- Astringent: Natural toning effect that helps minimize pore appearance
- Sebum Control: Helps regulate oil production for a longer-lasting matte finish
Saccharide Isomerate ~1%Proven
A plant-derived sugar complex that binds to the skin more strongly than typical humectants. Provides long-lasting hydration that survives multiple washes, counteracting the drying effect of acne treatments.
- Binding: Forms a strong bond with skin's keratin for hydration that outlasts ordinary moisturizers
- Duration: Provides up to 72 hours of continuous hydration even after rinsing
- Source: Derived from natural sugars, biomimicking the skin's own hydration mechanism
Allantoin ~0.5%Proven
A well-known skin-soothing and healing agent. Calms irritation, promotes cell regeneration, and helps smooth rough skin texture caused by acne scarring.
- Soothing: Reduces irritation and redness from active ingredients like Salicylic Acid
- Cell Renewal: Promotes keratolytic action for smoother, more even skin texture
45 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-3 Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Zinc Gluconate, Phenoxyethanol, Saccharide Isomerate, Kaolin, Salicylic Acid, Fragrance, Menthol, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Menthyl Lactate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Cupressus Sempervirens Fruit Extract, Ammonium Acrylates Copolymer, PEG-40 Castor Oil, Propanediol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Trideceth-9, Laureth-21, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aminomethyl Propanediol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Dimethicone, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Dehydroacetate, CI 77891, CI 19140, CI 42090
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening as the first step of your skincare routine. Follow with your regular toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Rinse your face with warm water to open up pores and prepare the skin for cleansing.
Apply & Massage
Squeeze a small amount onto your fingertips and apply evenly to your face. Gently massage in circular motions, avoiding the eye area.
Leave On Briefly
Allow the formula to work on your skin for 30 seconds to 1 minute so the Salicylic Acid and Zinc Gluconate can penetrate pores.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse your face with cold water until completely clean. Cold water helps tighten pores after cleansing. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
- You deal with recurring acne breakouts and clogged pores
- You want a face wash that controls oil without leaving skin tight and dry
- You prefer halal-certified skincare products
- You want an affordable daily cleanser with active acne-fighting ingredients
- You enjoy a refreshing, cooling sensation after cleansing
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — this product is not FA-safe
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs ultra-gentle cleansing
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You have extreme sensitivity to fragrance or menthol
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Kaolin clay, Salicylic Acid, and Zinc Gluconate effectively control excess oil and shine without over-stripping.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. BHA unclogs pores, Zinc fights bacteria, and Sage Extract calms inflammation.
Works well on the oily T-zone. Saccharide Isomerate helps maintain hydration on drier cheek areas. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer.
Can be used for occasional breakout control. May be more drying than necessary for daily use on non-oily normal skin.
Oil-controlling formula may feel too stripping for dry skin types. Use only on breakout areas or alternate with a gentler cleanser.
Contains Fragrance and Menthol which may irritate very sensitive or reactive skin. Patch test strongly recommended before regular use.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Freshness & Oil Control
Skin feels noticeably cleaner and less oily after each wash. Cooling menthol sensation provides instant refreshment. Surface oil and shine are visibly reduced.
90% noticed cleaner skin immediatelyPore Cleansing & Reduced Breakouts
Salicylic Acid begins clearing clogged pores. You may experience mild purging as trapped impurities surface. New breakouts start to slow down noticeably.
70% noticed fewer new breakoutsClearer Complexion & Calmer Skin
Active breakouts significantly reduced. Zinc Gluconate and Sage Extract help calm existing redness and inflammation. Skin texture starts to feel smoother.
65% reported visibly clearer skinLong-Term Acne Management
Consistent use establishes better oil control and fewer recurring breakouts. Post-acne marks begin to fade. Pores appear refined and less congested overall.
60% reported sustained improvementRatings by platform
80K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Very affordable price point, excellent value for active ingredient lineup
- Effectively controls oil and shine throughout the day
- Soft, gentle foam that cleanses without leaving skin feeling stripped
- Refreshing cooling sensation that feels invigorating
- Noticeable reduction in active breakouts with consistent use
- Halal certified, important for Muslim consumers
- Pleasant masculine scent that is not overpowering
- Free from parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acids and polysorbates
- Contains fragrance which may irritate sensitive skin
- Menthol can cause stinging on broken or very reactive skin
- May feel too drying for dry or dehydrated skin types
- Limited international availability outside Southeast Asia
- Does not disclose exact percentages of key actives
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar BHA-based formula targeting oily and acne-prone men's skin. Uses Salicylic Acid and Kaolin like Kahf, but lacks Zinc Gluconate and botanical extracts. More widely available globally.
Contains Salicylic Acid and Mineral Salts for oil control. More aggressive cleansing formula with cellulose scrub particles. Contains SLS which Kahf avoids. Less gentle overall but effective on stubborn acne.
Japanese formulation with Salicylic Acid in a gentler foam format. Known for effective pore cleansing technology. Does not contain Zinc Gluconate or clay, but may be better suited for sensitive-oily skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDENivea Men Deep Rapid Acne Clear
Neutrogena Men Skin Clearing Face Wash
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to prevent contamination.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic design minimizes air exposure and bacterial contamination.
Yes, 100ml meets most airline carry-on liquid restrictions. Compact tube design fits easily in toiletry bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This face wash contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy in high concentrations. However, since this is a rinse-off product with a relatively low concentration of Salicylic Acid, the risk is considered minimal by many dermatologists. That said, it is always best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any BHA product during pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure it is appropriate for your situation.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Stearic Acid, Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, PEG-3 Distearate, and Polysorbate 20. If you are dealing with fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), look for a cleanser that avoids fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates entirely.
Yes, since this is a rinse-off cleanser, it is generally safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and other BHA products in your routine. The Salicylic Acid in the cleanser is washed off and does not stay on the skin long enough to cause significant interactions. Simply cleanse with this product first, then apply your leave-on actives. If you experience increased dryness or irritation, consider alternating your actives between morning and evening routines.
This face wash is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. It excels at controlling excess sebum, unclogging pores, and fighting acne breakouts. It also works well for combination skin, particularly on the oily T-zone. However, those with very dry, dehydrated, or extremely sensitive skin may find it too stripping and should consider a gentler cleanser instead.
You will notice immediate oil control and a cleaner feeling after the very first wash. Reduced breakouts and pore improvement typically become visible within 2-4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Full results including clearer skin, refined pores, and better overall complexion may take 6-8 weeks. Some users may experience mild purging (temporary increase in breakouts) in the first 1-2 weeks as clogged pores are cleared out.
This face wash is always the first step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. Apply it to wet skin, massage for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then rinse off. After cleansing, follow with your toner, serum or treatment, moisturizer, and sunscreen (in the morning). Since it is a rinse-off product, it pairs well with virtually any leave-on products in your routine.
The comedogenic rating for this product is estimated at 2 out of 5 (low-moderate). While it does contain some potentially comedogenic ingredients such as Myristic Acid and Lauric Acid, these are present in a wash-off formulation, which significantly reduces the risk of pore clogging. The Salicylic Acid and Kaolin Clay in the formula actively work to unclog and clean pores, further offsetting any comedogenic risk from other ingredients.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The product contains multiple preservatives including Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, and Caprylhydroxamic Acid to maintain stability. Store it in a cool, dry place and keep the cap closed after each use. Discard if you notice any changes in smell, color, or texture.
Verdict: Kahf Oil and Acne Care Face Wash is an excellent budget-friendly daily cleanser for men with oily and acne-prone skin. Its combination of Salicylic Acid, Zinc Gluconate, Kaolin Clay, and Mediterranean botanical extracts delivers effective oil control and acne management at an incredibly affordable price point. The sulfate-free, paraben-free, halal-certified formula is a standout in the Indonesian men's skincare market. However, it is not suitable for fungal acne sufferers, and the inclusion of fragrance and menthol limits its appeal for very sensitive skin types. For its target audience — men dealing with oiliness and breakouts who want an affordable, effective, halal-certified cleanser — this is a top recommendation.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|



