SA Smoothing Cleanser
SA Smoothing Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle gel-to-foam exfoliating cleanser with 0.5% Salicylic Acid, 3 Essential Ceramides, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid. Developed with dermatologists to smooth rough, bumpy skin while protecting the skin barrier. Perfect for keratosis pilaris and congested skin.
3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramides NP, AP, and EOP to restore and maintain the skin's protective barrier while cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3 Essential Ceramides
Contains Ceramides NP, AP, and EOP to restore and maintain the skin's protective barrier while cleansing.
Gentle Exfoliation
0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA) gently exfoliates dead skin cells without harsh physical scrubbing or microbeads.
MVE Technology
Patented delivery system releases hydrating ingredients gradually for up to 24-hour moisture retention.
Multi-Acid Formula
Combines BHA (Salicylic Acid) with PHA (Gluconolactone) for comprehensive yet gentle exfoliation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% Salicylic Acid. ACOG considers topical SA under 2% relatively safe, but consult your doctor before use during pregnancy.
Generally considered safe for topical use. Minimal systemic absorption. Avoid applying to areas that contact baby's skin or mouth.
Contains potential triggers including PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic. The ceramides help protect the skin barrier during exfoliation.
Safe to use with most skincare. Avoid combining with other exfoliating acids (AHA, BHA, retinol) in the same routine to prevent irritation.
Specifically designed for rough, bumpy skin. The salicylic acid helps break down keratin plugs that cause KP bumps.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil to exfoliate inside pores. Helps unclog pores, reduce acne, and smooth rough texture. Oil-soluble so it works deeper than AHAs.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant, keratolytic, comedolytic
- Clinical Use: FDA-approved OTC acne treatment at 0.5-2%
- Mechanism: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells for gentle exfoliation
Niacinamide 4-5%Proven
Vitamin B3 derivative that calms skin, reduces redness, minimizes pores, and helps regulate sebum production. Supports the skin barrier and has anti-aging benefits.
- Source: Clinical studies show 4-5% niacinamide reduces sebum and improves acne
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, brightening, improves skin barrier function
- Synergy: Works well with ceramides to strengthen skin barrier
Gluconolactone (PHA) UndisclosedProven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation with added hydrating properties. Larger molecule size than AHAs means less penetration and less irritation.
- Function: Gentle exfoliant, humectant, antioxidant
- Benefits: Smoother skin texture without increased sun sensitivity
- Best For: Sensitive skin that cannot tolerate traditional AHAs
3 Essential Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) UndisclosedProven
Skin-identical lipids that make up approximately 50% of the skin's natural barrier. Help seal in moisture and protect against environmental damage.
- Ceramide NP: Helps restore skin's natural barrier and retain moisture
- Ceramide AP: Supports healthy skin cell function and barrier repair
- Ceramide EOP: Maintains skin flexibility and hydration
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid UndisclosedProven
A lower molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin. Attracts and holds water for enhanced hydration.
- Function: Humectant that holds up to 1000x its weight in water
- Benefit: Smaller molecules provide better penetration than regular HA
- Result: Plumper, more hydrated skin without heaviness
24 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Calcium Gluconate, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Tetrasodium EDTA, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleansing step on bare skin. For double cleansing, use an oil cleanser first to remove makeup/sunscreen. Can be used AM and PM, but start with once daily if new to exfoliating acids.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Skin
Start with lukewarm water on your face or body. Avoid very hot water which can strip natural oils.
Apply Cleanser
Dispense a small amount onto wet hands. The gel will transform into a light foam as you work it between your palms.
Massage Gently
Apply to skin in gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on rough, bumpy, or congested areas. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration. Use sunscreen during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have rough, bumpy skin texture (keratosis pilaris)
- Your skin is prone to clogged pores or blackheads
- You want gentle chemical exfoliation without harsh scrubs
- You need a cleanser for both face and body
- You have oily or combination skin that gets congested
- You want exfoliation without compromising your skin barrier
- You prefer fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - contains potential triggers
- You are pregnant and want to completely avoid salicylic acid
- Your skin is extremely dry and sensitive to any exfoliation
- You're already using multiple exfoliating products (retinol, AHAs)
- You prefer a completely oil-free formula (some versions contain corn oil)
- You want a hydrating cleanser without any exfoliating properties
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSalicylic acid effectively cuts through oil and unclogs pores. Helps control shine without over-stripping.
Balances oily T-zone while ceramides prevent dryness on cheeks. Ideal for mixed skin concerns.
Ceramides and hyaluronic acid help prevent dryness. Use 2-3x weekly and follow with rich moisturizer.
Fragrance-free and allergy-tested. Low 0.5% SA concentration is gentler than most. Patch test first.
Non-comedogenic with pore-clearing salicylic acid. Helps prevent breakouts without harsh drying effects.
Results timeline
WEEK 6-8Immediate Smoothness
Skin feels cleaner and slightly smoother right after use. The gel-to-foam texture provides a satisfying cleanse without tightness.
85% noticed cleaner-feeling skinTexture Improvement
Rough, bumpy areas begin to smooth. Some users may experience mild purging as clogged pores clear. KP bumps start to diminish.
70% noticed softer skin textureVisible Clarity
Pores appear clearer and smaller. Skin looks more refined and even. Blackheads and congestion significantly reduced.
75% reported clearer poresLong-Term Benefits
Consistent improvement in skin texture. Fewer breakouts. Keratosis pilaris significantly improved. Skin barrier remains healthy due to ceramides.
80% saw lasting improvementRatings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively smooths rough, bumpy skin and KP
- Non-drying despite containing salicylic acid
- Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
- Ceramides protect skin barrier during exfoliation
- Works well for both face and body
- Affordable compared to similar exfoliating cleansers
- Developed with dermatologists for credibility
- MVE technology provides lasting hydration
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne (contains potential triggers)
- 0.5% SA may be too low for severe acne
- Some find the texture slightly slimy
- Pump packaging can clog over time
- 236ml size runs out quickly for full-body use
- May cause initial purging for some users
- Not ideal for very dry skin used daily
- Contains corn oil in some formulations
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 2% salicylic acid (stronger) with zinc. Simpler formula without ceramides. Good for oily/acne-prone skin but may be more drying.
Higher SA concentration at lower price. Lacks ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Best for very oily skin that tolerates stronger exfoliation.
2% salicylic acid formula. More basic formulation without barrier-supporting ingredients. Can be more drying for daily use.
Contains mandelic acid alongside SA. Includes gentle physical exfoliants. Similar gentleness but different exfoliation approach.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed. Room temperature (15-25°C) is ideal.
Pump bottle dispenser for hygienic, controlled application
Yes - 236ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Purchase travel-size (88ml) or decant for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 0.5% salicylic acid. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical salicylic acid at concentrations under 2% relatively safe during pregnancy, but it's best to consult your doctor before use. For breastfeeding, topical SA is generally considered safe as minimal amounts are absorbed systemically. Avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby's skin or mouth.
Unfortunately, no. This cleanser contains ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate and potentially corn oil (Zea Mays Oil) in some formulations. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with benzoyl peroxide, or look for cleansers specifically formulated to be malassezia-safe.
Use caution when combining with other active ingredients. Since this cleanser contains salicylic acid (BHA), avoid using additional BHA products in the same routine. You can use retinol or vitamin C, but apply them at different times (e.g., cleanser in AM, retinol in PM). Avoid layering multiple AHAs/BHAs to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. If you're using prescription retinoids, consult your dermatologist before adding this cleanser.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types experiencing rough texture, clogged pores, or keratosis pilaris. It works excellently for acne-prone skin due to its salicylic acid content. Dry skin types can use it 2-3 times weekly with a rich moisturizer. Those with sensitive skin should patch test first, as the low 0.5% SA concentration makes it relatively gentle.
Most users notice cleaner, smoother-feeling skin immediately after the first use. Visible improvements in texture and reduced bumpiness typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For keratosis pilaris and congested pores, expect significant improvement within 4-6 weeks. Full benefits, including reduced breakouts and refined skin texture, are usually seen after 6-8 weeks of regular use.
Use this as your first or second cleansing step. If wearing makeup or sunscreen, first use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water, then follow with the SA Smoothing Cleanser. Apply to damp skin, massage for 30-60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner (optional), serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). The salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity, so SPF is essential during the day.
No, this cleanser is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. In fact, it's designed to do the opposite - the salicylic acid actively unclogs pores by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and excess sebum. The formula has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, making it very unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
The cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly closed. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell before the 12-month mark, discontinue use.
Verdict: CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser is an excellent, dermatologist-backed choice for anyone struggling with rough, bumpy skin, keratosis pilaris, or clogged pores. The unique combination of 0.5% salicylic acid with three essential ceramides provides effective exfoliation without compromising the skin barrier - a balance many similar products fail to achieve. While not suitable for those with fungal acne, it excels for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The affordable price point, fragrance-free formula, and versatile face-and-body use make it a standout drugstore cleanser that delivers on its promises.
Browse related
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|