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Oil Free Acne Stress Control Power-Cream Wash

Oil Free Acne Stress Control Power-Cream Wash

Product Description

Product overview

Made in USA DRUGSTORE

A creamy, oil-free acne face wash with 2% salicylic acid and MicroClear Technology that fights breakouts at the source while soothing redness and irritation with green tea and cucumber extracts. Gentle enough for daily use on acne-prone and sensitive skin.

2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Oil-Free Dermatologist Tested MicroClear Technology Green Tea & Cucumber Non-Comedogenic Contains Glycolic Acid (AHA) Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Type
Cream Wash
Size
6 fl oz (177 mL)
Active
Salicylic Acid 2%
Price
~$8–$10
Per oz
~$1.50/fl oz
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

MicroClear Technology

Clinically proven to boost delivery of salicylic acid deep into pores to the source of breakouts, unclogging congested pores from within.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Rich cream
Scent
Cucumber-mint
Absorption
Rinse-off
Finish
Clean, soft

MicroClear Technology

Clinically proven to boost delivery of salicylic acid deep into pores to the source of breakouts, unclogging congested pores from within.

Dual-Acid Action

Combines BHA (salicylic acid 2%) with AHA (glycolic acid) for both surface exfoliation and deep pore cleansing in one wash.

Soothing Botanicals

Green tea (Camellia Sinensis) and cucumber extracts calm irritation and reduce redness associated with acne breakouts.

Non-Drying Cream Formula

Unlike harsh foaming cleansers, this creamy formula with panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and glycerin prevents over-drying while treating acne.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA). While wash-off products pose lower risk than leave-on treatments, the Canadian label advises consulting a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Also contains glycolic acid (AHA).

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 60, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, and Cetyl Lactate, which are esters and polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast and may worsen fungal acne.

Comedogenic Safety

Rated 2/5. Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula. Although it contains cetyl alcohol (comedogenic rating 2), it rinses off, minimizing pore-clogging potential.

Sun Sensitivity Alert

Contains glycolic acid (AHA), which may increase skin sensitivity to the sun. Always apply sunscreen during the day when using this product.

Fragrance Included

Contains synthetic fragrance. May cause irritation for those with very sensitive skin or fragrance allergies. Patch test recommended.

Active Medication Warning

This is an OTC acne treatment. Avoid using with other topical acne medications simultaneously to prevent excessive dryness and irritation. If irritation occurs, use only one topical acne product at a time.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Salicylic Acid 2%Proven

A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris. The gold-standard OTC ingredient for treating acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.

  • Mechanism: Exfoliates inside the pore lining, dissolving the "glue" that holds dead cells together
  • Concentration: 2% is the maximum OTC strength recognized by the U.S. FDA for acne treatment
  • Clinical evidence: Extensively studied and FDA-approved for OTC acne treatment; proven to reduce comedones and inflammatory lesions
May cause dryness and irritation, especially when combined with other acne actives. Not recommended during pregnancy without medical guidance.

Glycolic Acid UndisclosedProven

An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. Works on the skin's surface to exfoliate dead cells, promote cell turnover, and improve skin texture and tone. Complements the deep-pore action of salicylic acid.

  • Mechanism: Dissolves bonds between surface skin cells for gentle chemical exfoliation
  • Benefit: Helps improve post-acne marks, uneven texture, and dullness
  • Note: Listed as an inactive ingredient; exact concentration is undisclosed but likely low in a wash-off product
Increases sun sensitivity. Daily SPF is essential when using this product. Neutrogena includes a sunburn alert on the label.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) UndisclosedPromising

A potent antioxidant-rich botanical with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Helps calm acne-related redness and irritation while protecting skin from environmental stress.

  • Key compound: EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) — the primary active polyphenol
  • Research: Studies suggest topical green tea extract can reduce sebum production and has antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria
  • Benefit: Soothes inflammation without compromising the acne-fighting action of salicylic acid
Well-tolerated by most skin types. No known comedogenic or sensitizing concerns.

Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract UndisclosedPromising

A cooling, soothing botanical extract rich in vitamins C and K, along with caffeic acid. Helps reduce puffiness, irritation, and redness while providing a refreshing sensation on the skin.

  • Properties: Anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and mildly astringent
  • Benefit: Counterbalances the potential drying and irritating effects of salicylic and glycolic acids

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) UndisclosedProven

A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that attracts and retains moisture. Converts to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) in the skin, supporting barrier repair and reducing irritation.

  • Comedogenicity: 0 — will not clog pores
  • Research: Clinically shown to improve skin hydration, reduce transepidermal water loss, and calm inflammation caused by other active ingredients
  • Synergy: Helps offset the drying effects of salicylic acid and glycolic acid in the formula

Menthol UndisclosedFunctional

Provides a cooling, refreshing sensation on the skin. Acts as a mild counter-irritant and can enhance the sensory experience of the product.

  • Function: Cooling agent and fragrance component
  • Note: Can be mildly irritating for very sensitive skin types
May cause tingling or mild stinging. If your skin is very reactive, patch test first.

24 ingredients

Active: Salicylic Acid 2%. Inactive: Water, Cetyl Alcohol, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Polysorbate 60, Steareth-21, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, Cetyl Lactate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sodium Hydroxide, Cocamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Fragrance, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Menthol, Benzalkonium Chloride, Panthenol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Green 5, Yellow 5, Blue 1.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Alcohol (denatured), Silicones, Microbeads
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
This Product (Cleanser)
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use as your first step (cleanser) morning and evening. Follow with toner, treatment serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen in the AM. Avoid layering with other BHA/AHA leave-on products to prevent over-exfoliation.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Wet Your Face

Splash your face with lukewarm water to prepare the skin and open pores for cleansing.

2

Dispense & Lather

Squeeze a nickel-sized amount of cream wash into your palms. Rub hands together to create a creamy lather.

3

Massage Gently

Apply to face using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Avoid the delicate eye area. Focus on oily zones and breakout-prone areas.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with your regular skincare routine.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily or acne-prone skin with frequent breakouts
  • You want a gentle cream cleanser that won't strip your skin dry
  • You need an affordable, drugstore acne treatment with proven actives
  • You prefer a cleanser with both BHA and AHA exfoliation
  • You experience redness and irritation alongside your acne
  • You want a dermatologist-tested daily cleanser

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 60 and esters)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
  • You are very sensitive to fragrances (contains synthetic fragrance)
  • You need a heavy-duty makeup remover (not designed for that)
  • You prefer fragrance-free skincare
  • You have extremely dry or eczema-prone skin
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Oil-free formula with salicylic acid dissolves excess sebum and keeps skin matte. Ideal choice for oily and shine-prone skin.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Cream formula is less stripping than foam cleansers, but dual acids may still cause dryness. Follow with a rich moisturizer.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Controls oil in the T-zone without over-drying cheeks. The creamy texture balances well across different facial zones.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Contains soothing green tea and cucumber, but fragrance and menthol may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test recommended.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Specifically designed for acne-prone skin with maximum OTC salicylic acid strength and MicroClear delivery technology.

08

Results timeline

WEEKS 8+
Week 1

Cleaner, Less Oily Skin

Surface oil is reduced immediately after use. Skin feels softer and less congested. Some users notice a mild tingling from the salicylic and glycolic acids as the product begins working.

80% noticed cleaner feel
Weeks 2–3

Reduced Breakouts & Redness

Active breakouts begin to diminish as salicylic acid clears pore congestion. Redness from existing acne starts to calm thanks to green tea and cucumber extracts. Some purging may occur.

65% noticed fewer breakouts
Weeks 4–6

Clearer, Smoother Complexion

Consistent use shows significant improvement in skin clarity. Blackheads are reduced, pores appear smaller, and overall skin texture feels smoother. Glycolic acid helps fade post-acne marks.

70% reported clearer skin
Weeks 8+

Sustained Acne Prevention

With ongoing daily use, breakouts are significantly reduced and preventive benefits are maintained. Best results when combined with a complete skincare routine including moisturizer and SPF.

60% reported long-term improvement
09

Ratings by platform

6K+ REVIEWS
Walmart
4.3
Rating
1,300+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users report the product didn't clear their specific acne, or caused initial dryness
CVS Pharmacy
4.1
Rating
288+
Reviews
Main complaint: Fragrance can be strong for sensitive skin; some found it didn't remove makeup effectively
Amazon
4.5
Rating
5,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some experienced initial purging; a few found the cream formula felt greasy compared to foam washes
MakeupAlley
3.9
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not effective as a standalone acne solution for severe acne; needs to be combined with other treatments
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Maximum OTC salicylic acid strength (2%) with MicroClear delivery
  • Creamy, non-drying formula that leaves skin soft
  • Dual-acid approach (BHA + AHA) for surface and deep exfoliation
  • Refreshing cucumber-mint scent and cooling sensation
  • Affordable drugstore pricing (~$8–$10)
  • Effective at reducing redness and inflammation
  • Gentle enough for daily AM/PM use
  • Dermatologist-tested and recommended

Criticized

  • Contains fragrance, which may irritate very sensitive skin
  • Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
  • Cream texture may feel too heavy for some oily skin users
  • Not effective as a makeup remover
  • May cause initial purging during the first 1–2 weeks
  • Contains menthol, which can sting on broken or irritated skin
  • Some users report it doesn't fully clear severe cystic acne alone
  • Contains dyes (Green 5, Yellow 5, Blue 1)
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Acne Control Cleanser
$14.99
Similar Price

Also uses 2% salicylic acid but adds ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for barrier support. Fragrance-free. Better for sensitive skin but lacks the AHA and botanical soothers.

72% Match
Salicylic Acid Cleanser
$11.99
Budget Pick

Uses 2% salicylic acid with zinc compound and allantoin. Simpler formula, gel texture instead of cream. Lacks MicroClear technology and the AHA component. Good for minimal routines.

68% Match
Oil-Free Acne Wash With Salicylic Acid
$14.95
Similar Price

Straightforward 2% salicylic acid cleanser without added botanicals. Fragrance-free and dye-free. Better for ingredient-conscious users but lacks the soothing green tea and cucumber benefit.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Acne Control Cleanser
Key Active Salicylic Acid 2% + Niacinamide
Size 8 fl oz (237 mL)
Texture Gel-to-foam
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Fungal Acne Safe No (PEG-150)
Special Tech 3 Ceramides + Hectorite Clay
Botanicals None
Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
Key Active Salicylic Acid 2% + LHA
Size 6.76 fl oz (200 mL)
Texture Clear gel
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Fungal Acne Safe No (PEG-150)
Special Tech Zinc Gluconate
Botanicals None
Foaming Wash
Key Active Benzoyl Peroxide 10%
Size 5.5 fl oz (156 mL)
Texture Foaming wash
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Special Tech None
Botanicals None
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store at room temperature. Keep away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.

Packaging

Opaque squeeze tube with flip-cap closure

Travel Friendly

Yes, 6 fl oz (177 mL) exceeds TSA 3.4 oz carry-on limit. Transfer to a smaller container for air travel, or pack in checked luggage.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Caution is advised. This product contains 2% salicylic acid and glycolic acid. While wash-off products with salicylic acid are generally considered lower risk than leave-on treatments, the Canadian product label specifically recommends asking a doctor or pharmacist before use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before incorporating this into your routine during pregnancy or while nursing.

No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 60, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, and Cetyl Lactate — all of which are esters or polysorbates that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you suspect fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative like PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser.

Use with caution. This cleanser already contains salicylic acid (BHA) and glycolic acid (AHA), so layering additional leave-on BHA or AHA products immediately after can increase irritation, dryness, and sensitivity. You can use retinol or vitamin C serums in the same routine (apply after cleansing), but introduce them slowly. If you experience redness or peeling, alternate days or use this cleanser only once daily while using other actives at the opposite time.

This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its oil-free formula with salicylic acid targets excess sebum and breakouts effectively. The creamy texture also makes it gentler than typical foaming acne washes, so it can work for normal skin with occasional breakouts. Dry and very sensitive skin types should proceed with caution and follow with a hydrating moisturizer.

Most users notice cleaner, less oily skin after the first week. Visible reduction in breakouts typically occurs within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. For significant improvement in overall skin clarity and reduced acne scarring, expect 6–8 weeks. If you see no improvement after 6–8 weeks, consult a dermatologist for alternative treatments.

This is a cleanser, so it goes first in your skincare routine. Use it morning and evening as your face wash. After rinsing, follow with toner (optional), serums or treatments, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). If you double cleanse at night, use an oil-based cleanser first to remove makeup, then follow with this product as your second cleanse.

The product has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5. While it contains cetyl alcohol (comedogenic rating 2) and Polysorbate 60 (comedogenic rating 2), it is a wash-off product, which significantly reduces the likelihood of pore clogging. Neutrogena markets it as non-comedogenic and oil-free. The salicylic acid actively helps unclog pores, further counteracting any potential comedogenic effects of the base ingredients.

The product has an estimated shelf life of 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store at room temperature away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, discontinue use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Cream Wash is a solid, affordable acne cleanser that delivers proven ingredients in a gentle cream format. The combination of 2% salicylic acid with MicroClear delivery technology and glycolic acid provides effective dual-acid exfoliation, while green tea and cucumber extracts soothe irritation — a smart balance for acne-prone skin that also experiences redness. At under $10, it offers excellent value compared to premium competitors. The main drawbacks are its fragrance content, lack of fungal acne safety, and the presence of dyes. Best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types looking for a daily drugstore cleanser that fights breakouts without over-drying.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Salicylic Acid Glycolic Acid Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Glycerin Panthenol
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Salicylic Acid Glycolic Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1 2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
48% 20% 32%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 25 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
4 B
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
Pores
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
1 A
PPG-15 Stearyl Ether
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
4 B
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS