Salicylic Acid Pads
Salicylic Acid Pads
Product Description
Product overview
Medicated acne treatment pads with 2% salicylic acid that penetrate pores to remove excess oil, fight blemishes, and deliver the signature Noxzema cooling tingle with eucalyptus and menthol.
Pore-Penetrating BHA
2% salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and acne-causing debris.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPore-Penetrating BHA
2% salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and acne-causing debris.
Signature Cooling Tingle
Eucalyptus oil, camphor, and menthol deliver the classic Noxzema refreshing sensation that awakens skin and confidence.
Oil Control
Over 60% alcohol content quickly removes excess oil, leaving skin feeling clean and matte without heavy residue.
Convenient One-Step
Pre-soaked pads cleanse, clarify, and tone in one simple step with no rinsing required. Perfect for on-the-go use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid. ACOG considers topical products with ≤2% SA generally safe, but consult your doctor before use during pregnancy. Higher doses should be avoided.
Topical salicylic acid at 2% is unlikely to be absorbed significantly. Avoid application on areas that contact infant's skin or mouth.
This product contains 0 fungal acne triggers according to ingredient analysis. Salicylic acid and eucalyptus oil may help combat Malassezia.
Contains 12 potentially irritating ingredients including menthol, camphor, and high alcohol content. May trigger flare-ups in sensitive conditions.
Contains fragrance and multiple fragrance allergens (linalool, limonene, geraniol, eugenol, cinnamal, citral, benzyl benzoate). Patch test if sensitive.
Do not use with other topical acne medications simultaneously as this may increase dryness and irritation. Use only one acne treatment at a time.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates inside pores to dissolve oil, dead skin cells, and debris. FDA-approved OTC acne treatment with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble so it penetrates sebum-filled pores to break up clogs at their source
- Research: Multiple clinical trials show 0.5-2% SA significantly reduces acne, sometimes more effectively than benzoyl peroxide
- Bonus: Has photoprotective properties - doesn't increase sun sensitivity like many acne treatments
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf OilSupporting
Essential oil with natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Provides the signature Noxzema scent and contributes to the cooling sensation.
- Benefit: May help combat acne-causing bacteria on skin surface
- Sensory: Creates the classic herbal, medicinal Noxzema scent experience
Menthol + CamphorSensory
Cooling agents that provide the signature Noxzema "tingle." They create a refreshing sensation by activating cold receptors in the skin.
- Effect: Immediate cooling/tingling sensation that feels invigorating
- Note: The tingle is sensory only - it doesn't indicate the product is "working harder"
Alcohol Denat. 60%+Functional
Denatured alcohol serves as a solvent, penetration enhancer, and antimicrobial agent. Creates quick-drying, matte finish.
- Function: Dissolves oil, helps other ingredients penetrate, evaporates quickly
- Studies: Research shows half evaporates within 10 seconds, less than 3% remains on skin
17 ingredients
Active: Salicylic Acid 2%
Inactive: Alcohol Denat., Water, PEG-4, PPG-11 Stearyl Ether, Fragrance (Parfum), Camphor, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Menthol, Disodium EDTA, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Cinnamal, Citral, Eugenol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing. No rinsing required. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying next products. Always follow with moisturizer to prevent over-drying.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash face with your regular cleanser and pat dry. The pads work best on clean, dry skin.
Swipe Across Face
Take one pad and gently swipe across entire face, focusing on acne-prone areas (T-zone, chin, forehead). Avoid eye area and lips.
Let It Work
Do not rinse off. Allow the product to absorb for 1-2 minutes before applying other skincare. The tingle is normal.
Moisturize
Always follow with a moisturizer to prevent over-drying. The alcohol content can be stripping, so hydration is essential.
Frequency
Start with once daily. Gradually increase to 2-3 times daily if tolerated. Reduce if excessive dryness or peeling occurs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or mild-moderate acne
- You want a quick, no-rinse treatment
- You enjoy the cooling menthol/eucalyptus sensation
- You need a budget-friendly acne treatment
- You have fungal acne concerns
- You want HSA/FSA eligible products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have dry or dehydrated skin
- You have rosacea or eczema
- You're sensitive to alcohol or fragrances
- You're pregnant (consult doctor first)
- You dislike cooling/tingling sensations
- You already use other acne treatments (retinol, benzoyl peroxide)
- You have a damaged moisture barrier
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. High alcohol content cuts through excess oil, salicylic acid unclogs pores, and matte finish controls shine throughout the day.
Not recommended. The 60%+ alcohol content can severely strip moisture and damage an already compromised barrier. Look for alcohol-free BHA alternatives.
Works well when focused on T-zone only. Avoid using on drier cheek areas. Always follow with moisturizer on dry zones.
Contains 12 potentially irritating ingredients including menthol, camphor, and fragrance allergens. High risk of irritation and reactions.
Designed specifically for acne. 2% salicylic acid is proven effective. Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating) and fungal acne safe formula.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Refresh & Clean Feel
Experience the signature Noxzema cooling tingle from eucalyptus and menthol. Skin feels instantly cleaner and mattified as excess oil is removed.
95% feel cleanerReduced Oiliness & Early Clearing
Skin texture begins to improve. Existing pimples start to dry up and heal faster. Pores appear less congested. Some initial dryness or purging may occur.
60% notice improvementVisible Acne Reduction
Noticeable reduction in breakouts and blackheads. Skin appears smoother and clearer. Cell turnover has normalized for less congestion.
75% see clearer skinMaintained Clear Skin
With consistent use, breakouts are significantly reduced or prevented. Continue using 1-3x daily to maintain results. Best results come with moisturizer use.
80% maintain resultsRatings by platform
7K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective at clearing pores and reducing breakouts
- Excellent value - 90 pads for under $7
- Convenient one-step, no-rinse treatment
- Refreshing cooling sensation
- HSA/FSA eligible purchase
- Dermatologist tested formula
- Fungal acne safe
- Cult classic trusted by generations
Criticized
- Very drying - requires good moisturizer
- Strong eucalyptus/menthol scent
- High alcohol content (60%+)
- Can irritate sensitive skin
- Not suitable for rosacea or eczema
- Contains multiple fragrance allergens
- Some report formula changes over time
- Tingle too intense for some users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 2% salicylic acid but ALCOHOL-FREE. Contains menthol but no eucalyptus. Better for those who want the exfoliation without the drying alcohol. Also fungal acne safe.
2% salicylic acid in pad format. Different texture and fragrance profile. Slightly more expensive but comparable results for acne treatment.
2% salicylic acid pads with 50% alcohol content. Similar efficacy for acne but less intense cooling sensation. Same drugstore accessibility.
Liquid format (not pads) with gentler, alcohol-free formula. Same 2% salicylic acid but with green tea extract. Better for sensitive/dry skin but 4x the price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDENoxzema Anti-Blemish Pads
Stridex Maximum Strength
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The high alcohol content helps preserve the formula but pads may dry out over time.
Store in a cool, dry place. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent pads from drying out. Avoid heat and direct sunlight.
Screw-top plastic jar with 90 pre-soaked cloth pads. Inner seal keeps pads moist during transport.
Yes - Solid format pads don't count toward TSA liquid limits. Great for travel and gym bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers topical products with 2% or less salicylic acid generally safe during pregnancy, though it's always best to consult your doctor. High-dose salicylic acid (peels, oral medications) should be avoided. For breastfeeding, topical 2% SA is unlikely to be absorbed significantly into breastmilk, making it generally safe - just avoid applying to areas that contact your baby's skin or mouth.
Yes! According to ingredient analysis from SkinSort and Folliculitis Scout, Noxzema Salicylic Acid Pads contain 0 fungal acne triggers. The product actually contains 2 ingredients that may help combat Malassezia: salicylic acid (which exfoliates and helps cell turnover) and eucalyptus oil (which has antimicrobial properties). This makes it a suitable option for those dealing with fungal acne.
The product label specifically warns NOT to use with other topical acne medications as this may increase dryness and irritation. Retinol, AHAs, and benzoyl peroxide should be used at different times (morning vs night) or on alternate days. Vitamin C is generally gentler but can still cause irritation when combined. The high alcohol content already makes this product quite stripping, so layering actives is not recommended.
These pads are BEST for oily and acne-prone skin. The 60%+ alcohol content and strong active ingredients make them ideal for cutting through excess sebum and treating breakouts. They're also suitable for combination skin when used on the T-zone only. They're NOT recommended for dry, sensitive, or rosacea/eczema-prone skin due to the high alcohol content and potentially irritating ingredients like menthol and fragrance.
You'll feel instant cleansing and the cooling tingle immediately. Visible acne improvement typically begins within 1-2 weeks, with significant clearing by week 3-4. Full results and maintained clear skin usually occur after 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Some users experience initial purging (temporary breakouts) as the salicylic acid brings congestion to the surface - this typically subsides within 2 weeks.
Use immediately after cleansing as step 2 in your routine. The pads serve as both a treatment and toner. Apply to clean, dry skin, let absorb for 1-2 minutes, then follow with serum (if using), moisturizer (essential!), and sunscreen in AM. No rinsing required. The order: Cleanser → Noxzema Pads → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM).
No, these pads have a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning they're highly unlikely to clog pores. In fact, salicylic acid is specifically designed to UNCLOG pores by dissolving the sebum and dead skin cells inside them. The oil-free, alcohol-based formula leaves no residue that could contribute to congestion. This makes it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin concerned about pore-clogging ingredients.
The product should be used within 12 months after opening. The high alcohol content acts as a preservative, but the pads may dry out over time. To maximize shelf life, always keep the lid tightly closed, store in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight, and avoid leaving the jar open. If pads become dry or crusty, they're no longer effective and should be replaced.
Verdict: Noxzema Ultimate Clear Anti-Blemish Pads deliver solid acne-fighting power at an unbeatable price point. The 2% salicylic acid effectively clears pores and treats breakouts, while the signature eucalyptus-menthol tingle provides a satisfying sensory experience. However, the high alcohol content (60%+) makes this a product strictly for oily skin types - dry or sensitive skin users should look elsewhere. It's an excellent choice for those who want quick, no-fuss acne treatment on a budget and don't mind the drying effects, but must always be paired with a good moisturizer. A drugstore classic that's earned its loyal following.
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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-4
Humectant, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
PPG-11 Stearyl Ether
Emollient
|
|
|
| 0 |
Parfum
Masking, Perfuming
|
|