Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment Wash
Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A maximum-strength daily acne face wash with 2% salicylic acid that penetrates deep into pores to fight breakouts, reduce redness, and deliver visibly clearer skin in as fast as 12 hours. Dermatologist tested and suitable for daily use on normal to oily skin.
Rapid 12-Hour Results
Visibly reduces redness and pimple size in as fast as 12 hours by delivering maximum-strength medication deep into pores.
Texture & feel
SENSORYRapid 12-Hour Results
Visibly reduces redness and pimple size in as fast as 12 hours by delivering maximum-strength medication deep into pores.
Maximum Strength BHA
Contains the highest OTC concentration of salicylic acid (2%) to unclog pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, and fight acne-causing bacteria.
Keeps Working After Wash
The formula continues to treat pimples even after rinsing, depositing active medication into pores for sustained action throughout the day.
Botanical Extracts
Enhanced with French lavender, helichrysum, and cistus extracts known for their soothing, antioxidant, and skin-calming properties.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper limit considered acceptable by ACOG for topical use during pregnancy. As a wash-off product, systemic absorption is minimal. Consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains cetearyl alcohol (a fatty alcohol) that may feed malassezia yeast. Although it is a rinse-off product, those with active fungal acne should choose an FA-safe cleanser instead.
Rated 1/5 comedogenic. As a wash-off cleanser, ingredients have minimal time to clog pores. The salicylic acid actively works to unclog and clear pores.
Includes synthetic fragrance which may irritate very sensitive or reactive skin. Also contains sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). Patch test recommended for sensitive skin types.
Formula has been tested by dermatologists. No parabens, no harsh physical exfoliants, and no oils in the formulation.
Avoid using with other topical acne medications at the same time, as this may increase dryness and irritation. If irritation occurs, use only one topical acne medication at a time.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, exfoliate dead skin cells, and reduce inflammation. The gold-standard OTC ingredient for treating acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells inside pores, unclogs blockages, and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Clinical evidence: Extensively studied for acne treatment. 2% is the maximum OTC concentration allowed by the FDA for acne medications.
- Best for: Blackheads, whiteheads, mild to moderate inflammatory acne, oily skin, and enlarged pores.
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin that draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, helping to offset the drying effects of salicylic acid in this formulation.
- Function: Moisturizer and humectant with a comedogenic rating of 0 and irritancy rating of 0.
- Evidence: Effective at concentrations as low as 3%, with enhanced benefits for dry skin at 20–40%.
- Benefit here: Helps balance the drying effects of salicylic acid and surfactants in the wash, keeping skin hydrated after cleansing.
Lavandula Stoechas Extract <1%Promising
French lavender extract with antioxidant and soothing properties. Part of a proprietary botanical blend alongside helichrysum and cistus extracts, traditionally used in Mediterranean herbal medicine for skin healing.
- Source: Lavandula stoechas (French or Spanish lavender), distinct from common lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).
- Properties: Contains polyphenols and flavonoids with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild antimicrobial activity.
- Synergy: Works with helichrysum italicum and cistus monspeliensis extracts to soothe irritation caused by the active acne-fighting ingredients.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate ~5–10%Supporting
A gentle, coconut-derived surfactant often called "baby foam" due to its mildness. Provides effective cleansing and lather without the harsh stripping associated with traditional sulfates.
- Function: Primary gentle surfactant and foaming agent that lifts oil and debris from the skin.
- Mildness: Significantly gentler than sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), making it more suitable for daily use on acne-prone skin.
14 ingredients
Active: Salicylic Acid (2%). Inactive: Water, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Hydroxide, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA, Lavandula Stoechas Extract, Helichrysum Italicum Extract, Cistus Monspeliensis Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first step in both AM and PM routines. Can be used 1–3 times daily. If using with other acne treatments (retinol, benzoyl peroxide), apply them at separate times to minimize irritation.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water over your face and neck to prepare the skin. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural moisture and increase irritation.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a small amount into your palms and gently work into a lather. The cream-like texture will produce a mild foam.
Massage onto Skin
Apply to face and neck using gentle circular motions, covering all affected areas. Avoid the delicate eye area. Leave on for 30–60 seconds to let the salicylic acid work.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with warm water and gently pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen (AM) to protect skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with frequent breakouts
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want a medicated daily cleanser at an affordable price
- You prefer a simple, no-fuss acne treatment routine
- You need fast-acting results for sudden breakouts
- You want an FSA/HSA-eligible acne product
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or sensitive skin prone to irritation
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid salicylic acid entirely
- You are sensitive to fragrance or sulfates (SLES)
- You need a gentle, non-medicated daily cleanser
- You have severe cystic acne (may need prescription treatment)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid dissolves excess sebum, unclogs pores, and controls oil production. Leaves skin feeling clean without residue.
Works great on the oily T-zone. Focus application on breakout-prone areas and follow with moisturizer on drier cheeks.
Specifically formulated for acne. Maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid actively treats and prevents breakouts. Low comedogenic risk.
Effective for occasional breakouts. May be too strong for daily use if skin is mostly clear. Use 2–3 times per week and alternate with a gentle cleanser.
Can be drying due to salicylic acid and surfactants. If used, limit to once daily and always follow with a rich, hydrating moisturizer.
Contains fragrance and SLES which may trigger irritation. Start with once every other day and patch test first. Consider a fragrance-free alternative if redness occurs.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Reduced Redness & Pimple Size
The brand claims visible reduction in redness and pimple size within the first 12 hours. Active medication continues working in pores after rinsing, helping to calm inflammation quickly.
60% noticed improvementClearer Pores & Fewer New Breakouts
With consistent daily use, pores begin to unclog, blackheads diminish, and the frequency of new breakouts decreases. Skin may experience initial purging as congestion is cleared.
55% noticed improvementNoticeably Clearer Skin
Overall skin texture improves, active breakouts significantly reduce, and complexion appears cleaner and more even. Oil control becomes more consistent throughout the day.
70% noticed improvementSustained Acne Control
With continued use, breakouts are largely prevented, pores remain clean, and skin maintains a clearer, healthier appearance. Best results when combined with a consistent moisturizer and SPF routine.
75% noticed improvementRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid for effective acne treatment
- Very affordable price point (~$7–$12 for 6.78 oz)
- Fast-acting formula shows visible results within 12 hours
- Continues treating pimples even after rinsing off
- Dermatologist tested with 65+ years of brand heritage
- FSA/HSA eligible purchase
- Paraben-free and oil-free formulation
- Widely available at drugstores, Amazon, and Walmart
Criticized
- Contains fragrance which can irritate sensitive skin
- Contains SLES (sodium laureth sulfate) — may be too stripping for dry skin
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe due to cetearyl alcohol
- Cream texture doesn't lather well for some users
- Tube packaging can be hard to squeeze and messy
- Can cause excessive dryness and peeling with overuse
- Not suitable for very dry or very sensitive skin types
- Some users report little to no improvement in breakouts
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 2% salicylic acid concentration in a gel-based cleanser. Fragrance-free option available. Very similar acne-fighting efficacy at a comparable price, but different texture (gel vs. cream).
Contains 10% benzoyl peroxide instead of salicylic acid — a different mechanism of action. Stronger antibacterial action but can bleach fabrics and is more drying. Great budget option for stubborn acne.
Uses 4% benzoyl peroxide with ceramides and niacinamide for a gentler, barrier-supporting approach. Fragrance-free and more suitable for sensitive skin, but pricier and different active.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze. Keep away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
Squeeze tube (200 mL / 6.78 fl oz)
Yes — 200 mL is over the 100 mL TSA carry-on limit, so check it or transfer to a smaller container for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This wash contains 2% salicylic acid, which is at the upper limit deemed acceptable by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for topical use during pregnancy. Because it is a wash-off product with brief skin contact, systemic absorption is minimal. However, it's always best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any salicylic acid product during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid at 2% or below is generally considered safe, but avoid applying it to areas that may come in direct contact with your baby.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains cetearyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol that can potentially feed malassezia yeast, and sodium cocoyl isethionate, which is coconut-derived and may also be problematic. While salicylic acid itself is beneficial for fungal acne, the overall formulation is not FA-safe. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider a fungal acne-safe cleanser like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or a zinc pyrithione wash.
Use caution when combining this wash with other active ingredients. Since it already contains 2% salicylic acid (a BHA), layering additional BHA or AHA products immediately after may over-exfoliate and irritate skin. Retinol can be used in the same routine but apply it at a different time of day (e.g., this wash in the AM, retinol in the PM). Vitamin C can typically be used safely after this wash, but wait a few minutes before applying. The product label specifically warns against using other topical acne medications simultaneously, as dryness and irritation may increase.
This wash is best suited for normal to oily and acne-prone skin types. It excels at oil control, pore unclogging, and breakout treatment. Combination skin can also benefit, especially in the oily T-zone. It is not ideal for very dry or very sensitive skin due to the salicylic acid, SLES, and fragrance content, which may cause excessive dryness or irritation.
The brand claims visible results in as fast as 12 hours for reducing redness and pimple size. Most users report noticeable improvement in breakouts within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. For best results on overall skin clarity, allow 4–6 weeks of consistent use. Some users may experience initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts) during the first week as clogged pores are cleared — this is normal and typically subsides.
This is your first step — it is a cleanser. Use it on wet skin before any other skincare products. After rinsing and patting dry, follow with toner (optional), any treatment serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). It can be used 1–3 times daily, but start with once daily and gradually increase to avoid over-drying.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. As a wash-off cleanser, the ingredients have minimal contact time with skin, greatly reducing any pore-clogging potential. Furthermore, the 2% salicylic acid actively works to unclog and clean out pores, making it unlikely to contribute to comedone formation. It is oil-free and designed specifically for acne-prone skin.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place and do not freeze. The lot code on the packaging follows a WWYYJJJ format to identify the manufacturing date. If the product changes color, scent, or consistency, discontinue use regardless of the opening date.
Verdict: Clearasil Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment Wash is a solid, affordable, drugstore acne cleanser that delivers maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid to fight breakouts effectively. It's an excellent choice for oily and acne-prone skin types looking for a no-frills medicated wash at a budget-friendly price. The addition of French botanical extracts is a nice touch. However, it loses points for containing fragrance and SLES, not being fungal acne safe, and having a cream texture that some users find doesn't lather well. For sensitive skin, a fragrance-free alternative like CeraVe or Vanicream may be a better fit. Overall, it's a trustworthy, well-proven acne wash that has earned its place as a drugstore staple for over 65 years.
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
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|