Salicylic Acid Refreshing Scrub Cleanser
Salicylic Acid Refreshing Scrub Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A dual-action exfoliating cleanser combining 1% salicylic acid with gentle physical scrub particles to deeply cleanse pores, control oil, and smooth skin texture. Enriched with niacinamide, ceramide, and soothing botanical extracts for a balanced, refreshed complexion.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Salicylic acid penetrates oil-filled pores to dissolve sebum buildup and prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
Salicylic acid penetrates oil-filled pores to dissolve sebum buildup and prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming.
Dual Exfoliation
Combines chemical (BHA) and physical (corn starch particles) exfoliation for thorough dead skin cell removal without harsh microbeads.
Barrier Support
Ceramide 3 helps restore and maintain the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss during cleansing.
Soothing Botanicals
Centella asiatica, aloe vera, calendula, and green tea extracts calm inflammation and reduce redness post-exfoliation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains only 1% salicylic acid. ACOG considers topical products with 2% or less salicylic acid safe during pregnancy. Rinse-off formula further minimizes absorption.
Topical salicylic acid is unlikely to be absorbed significantly or appear in breastmilk. Avoid applying to chest area that may contact baby.
Free from ferments, fatty acids (C11-C24), esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
This formaldehyde-releasing preservative is considered controversial. While effective and safe for most people, those with formaldehyde sensitivity should avoid.
Uses corn starch modified particles and hydrated silica instead of harsh microbeads. Still recommended to use gentle pressure to avoid micro-tears.
While salicylic acid doesn't increase photosensitivity like AHAs, exfoliation reveals fresh skin that benefits from sun protection.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 1%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve sebum plugs. Effective for treating and preventing acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the intercellular "glue" holding dead skin cells together, promoting exfoliation both on surface and within pores
- FDA Status: Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized as OTC acne treatment ingredients
- Anti-inflammatory: Has aspirin-like properties that help calm redness and irritation
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven
A multitasking skincare superstar that regulates sebum production, minimizes pores, fades dark spots, and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Sebum Control: Studies show it reduces sebum excretion rate, helping control oily skin
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer to help fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Barrier Boost: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger, more resilient skin
Ceramide 3Proven
An essential lipid naturally found in skin that helps maintain the moisture barrier and protect against environmental aggressors.
- Barrier Function: Fills gaps between skin cells to seal in moisture and block irritants
- Hydration: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) during cleansing
- Repair: Helps restore compromised skin barriers caused by over-exfoliation
Centella Asiatica ExtractPromising
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this traditional herb contains active compounds (asiaticoside, madecassoside) that soothe inflammation and support wound healing.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation from exfoliation
- Collagen Synthesis: Stimulates collagen production for skin repair
- Moisturizing: Promotes hyaluronic acid synthesis in skin
Calendula Officinalis Flower ExtractPromising
Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, calendula helps soothe irritated skin and regulate oil production.
- Soothing: Reduces inflammation and redness
- Oil Regulation: Helps balance sebum production
- Healing: Supports skin repair and recovery
18 ingredients
Aqua, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Oat Protein, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Corn Starch Modified, Hydrated Silica, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Ceramide 3, DMDM Hydantoin, Panthenol, Allantoin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 2x weekly as your first cleansing step. On non-scrub days, use a gentle daily cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face to dampen skin. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils and cause irritation.
Apply Product
Squeeze a small amount (about a fingertip) onto your palm. No need to create a lather first.
Massage Gently
Apply to face in gentle, circular motions for about 1-2 minutes. Focus on oily areas (T-zone) and avoid the eye area. Use light pressure to prevent micro-tears.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no product residue remains. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Follow Up
Continue with toner, serum, and moisturizer. Apply sunscreen in the morning. Use this scrub 2 times per week maximum.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to congestion
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- You want gentle exfoliation without harsh scrubs
- You prefer a multi-benefit cleanser (BHA + physical exfoliation)
- You're looking for an affordable acne-fighting cleanser
- You have fungal acne and need a safe formula
- You're new to BHA and want a gentle introduction
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're already using multiple exfoliating products
- You have active, inflamed acne (may cause irritation)
- You're sensitive to formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
- You prefer fragrance-free products with minimal ingredients
- You want a higher-strength BHA (2%) for stubborn acne
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match! Salicylic acid cuts through excess sebum, while gentle surfactants cleanse without over-stripping. Perfect for shine control.
Great for targeting T-zone congestion without drying out cheeks. Ceramide helps maintain balance across different zones.
BHA unclogs pores and prevents new breakouts. Fungal acne safe formula. Start once weekly if skin is sensitized from other treatments.
Good for occasional deep cleansing and maintaining clear pores. Use once weekly to boost radiance without over-exfoliating.
May be too stripping for very dry skin. If used, limit to once weekly and follow with rich moisturizer. Ceramide helps offset dryness.
Patch test first. The 1% concentration is gentler than most BHA products, but physical scrub particles may irritate reactive skin.
Results timeline
WEEK 6-8Fresh, Clean Feel
Skin feels deeply cleansed and refreshed. Pores appear visibly cleaner. Some may notice slight tightness which subsides after moisturizing.
95% noticedSmoother Texture
Rough, bumpy texture begins to smooth out. Blackheads start to loosen and become easier to extract (if needed). Minor purging may occur.
75% noticedReduced Breakouts
Fewer new pimples forming. Existing congestion clearing up. Pores appear smaller and less visible. Skin tone more even.
68% noticedClearer Complexion
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Reduced oiliness throughout the day. Post-acne marks beginning to fade with consistent use.
60% noticedRatings by platform
700+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Affordable price point for quality BHA cleanser
- Gentle 1% salicylic acid suitable for beginners
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Contains beneficial ceramide and niacinamide
- Dual exfoliation (chemical + physical)
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free
- Soothing botanical extracts reduce irritation
- Pregnancy safe at this concentration
- Effective at clearing blackheads
Criticized
- Small 75ml size may not last long
- Contains DMDM Hydantoin (formaldehyde-releaser)
- Physical scrub particles not for everyone
- May be drying for dry skin types
- Lower BHA concentration than some competitors
- Brand less established than K-beauty giants
- Counterfeit products reported in some markets
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
K-beauty alternative with 0.5% salicylic acid. No physical exfoliants - purely chemical exfoliation. Contains tea tree oil for added antibacterial benefits. Larger 150ml size.
US drugstore option with salicylic acid + 3 ceramides + hyaluronic acid + niacinamide. No physical scrub particles. Dermatologist-developed. Larger 237ml/8oz size available.
Higher 2% concentration but it's a leave-on masque, not a cleanser. Better for targeted treatment. Contains charcoal and clay for extra pore-clearing power.
Higher-end option with 0.5% salicylic acid. No physical exfoliants. Contains panthenol for soothing. Cruelty-free and fragrance-free. Designed for sensitive acne-prone skin.
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 to prevent contamination and drying.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Opaque packaging protects actives from light degradation.
Yes, 75ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in toiletry bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains only 1% salicylic acid, which falls well within the 2% or less threshold that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers safe for topical use. Additionally, it's a rinse-off product, which minimizes absorption. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid is unlikely to enter breastmilk in significant amounts. Just avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby's skin.
Yes, this cleanser is fungal acne safe. It's free from ingredients that feed malassezia yeast, including ferments, fatty acids (C11-C24 chain length), fatty alcohols, esters, and polysorbates. The formula uses gentle, amino acid-based surfactants and the exfoliants (corn starch and hydrated silica) are not problematic for fungal acne-prone skin.
Use with caution. Since this cleanser already contains salicylic acid (BHA) and physical exfoliants, combining it with other actives can lead to over-exfoliation. Avoid using with retinol, AHA, or other BHA products on the same days. Vitamin C can be used, but apply it at a different time (vitamin C in the morning, this cleanser in the evening). If your skin tolerates it well, you can gradually introduce other actives on alternate days, but always listen to your skin and reduce frequency if you notice irritation.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The salicylic acid helps control excess sebum and unclog pores, while the gentle physical exfoliants remove dead skin cells. It's also suitable for those with fungal acne. However, it may be too stripping for very dry or dehydrated skin, and those with sensitive skin should patch test first and use no more than once weekly.
Most users notice immediate improvements in how clean and refreshed their skin feels. Visible improvements in texture and reduced blackheads typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent use (2x weekly). Significant improvements in breakouts and overall skin clarity usually develop within 4-8 weeks. Some users may experience initial purging during the first 2 weeks as clogged pores clear out - this is normal and should subside.
This scrub cleanser should be used as your first cleansing step, on damp skin. Use it 2 times per week maximum (evening is ideal). After rinsing, follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (in the morning). On non-exfoliating days, use a gentle daily cleanser instead. Avoid using immediately after other exfoliating treatments or on days you use retinol.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It's formulated without pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients. In fact, the salicylic acid actively works to unclog pores by dissolving sebum buildup inside them. The formula is designed to cleanse and clear pores rather than congest them. It's also free from common comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and isopropyl myristate.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This means once opened, it should be used within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly closed. The 75ml tube typically lasts 1-2 months with twice-weekly use, so you'll likely finish it well before the PAO expires.
Verdict: The Skinever Salicylic Acid Refreshing Scrub Cleanser offers excellent value for those seeking an affordable, multi-functional exfoliating cleanser. Its 1% salicylic acid concentration makes it beginner-friendly while still delivering effective pore-clearing results. The addition of ceramide, niacinamide, and soothing botanicals sets it apart from basic BHA cleansers. Being fungal acne safe and pregnancy-safe (at this concentration) makes it versatile for various skin concerns. The main drawbacks are the small 75ml size and the inclusion of DMDM Hydantoin preservative, which some users prefer to avoid. Overall, it's a solid choice for oily and combination skin types looking for gentle yet effective exfoliation without breaking the bank.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Oat Protein
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|