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Sea Makeup Sea Make Up Acne Butter Deep Cleansing

Sea Makeup Sea Make Up Acne Butter Deep Cleansing

Product Description

Product overview

Oil-based cleansing balm formulated to dissolve makeup and surface impurities on acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid exfoliates congested pores while tea tree oil addresses bacterial colonization. Centella asiatica soothes inflammation post-cleanse. Emulsifies with water for easy rinsing without residue.

Paraben-FreeSulfate-FreeSilicone-Free
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/ 5
Type
Cleanser
Key Active
Salicylic Acid
Use
AM & PM
Brand
Sea Makeup
PAO
12 months
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Acne-targeted oil cleanser with exfoliating BHA

Salicylic acid penetrates sebum-filled pores to dissolve comedones, while tea tree oil reduces acne-causing bacteria. The emollient base prevents over-drying, common with stronger acne cleansers. Designed for the first step of double cleansing on congested skin.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Thick balm
Absorption
Emulsifies to milk
Finish
Clean, non-sticky
Scent
Herbal, tea tree–forward

Salicylic acid exfoliation

Beta hydroxy acid dissolves in sebum to reach pore walls and remove keratin plugs. Works best on oily, congested skin where traditional surfactants may not penetrate deeply enough.

Tea tree antimicrobial

Melaleuca alternifolia leaf oil inhibits *Cutibacterium acnes*, the bacteria implicated in inflammatory acne. Concentrates on the skin surface during the cleanse phase before emulsification.

Oil-based emulsion

Ethylhexyl palmitate and isostearate esters dissolve lipophilic makeup and oil-soluble debris. Stays pliable enough to massage into skin without excessive greasiness, then transforms to milky texture when water is added.

Centella barrier repair

Centella asiatica extract reduces post-cleanse inflammation and supports skin barrier function. Counterbalances the potential irritation from combined BHA + tea tree action on reactive skin.

Fragrance-inclusive formula

Parfum adds sensory appeal and aroma compounds that may have mild antimicrobial properties, though fragrance increases risk of irritation in sensitive or compromised skin.

Vitamin E antioxidant

Tocopheryl acetate provides antioxidant support during the cleanse, reducing free-radical damage from environmental exposure. Stabilizes the oil phase against oxidative rancidity.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Not ideal for fungal-acne prone skin

Ethylhexyl palmitate is flagged as a common trigger for *Malassezia* overgrowth. Avoid if you have a history of pityrosporum folliculitis or worsening breakouts with occlusive cleansers.

Avoid during pregnancy

Salicylic acid systemic absorption is not well-studied in pregnancy. Topical BHA in cleansers is generally low-risk, but if pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare provider before routine use.

Tea tree can cause contact dermatitis

Concentrated tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) may trigger allergic contact dermatitis or irritation in sensitive individuals, especially at higher percentages or with broken skin.

Fragrance may irritate reactive skin

Parfum can be a potent allergen and irritant. If you have fragrance sensitivity or severely compromised barrier function, this cleanser is not recommended.

Salicylic acid is a mild irritant

BHA can cause dryness, redness, or peeling, especially on first use or if skin is already sensitized. Introduce gradually (1–2× weekly) and follow with barrier-supportive toner or serum.

Do not layer with other actives immediately

Space exfoliating actives apart or alternate days.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INCI

Salicylic Acid Proven

Beta hydroxy acid that dissolves in sebum and keratin to exfoliate pore walls from the inside out. At the concentration present in this cleanser, it works primarily during the massage phase; rinsing removes most residue, limiting systemic absorption. Most effective on oily and congestion-prone skin.

  • Mechanism: Lipophilic exfoliant penetrating sebaceous duct; keratolytic at pH 3–4
  • Benefit: Reduces comedone formation and visible congestion with regular use
  • Caution: Can over-dry or irritate if overused; synergizes with other actives to increase sensitivity
Best suited for oily or acne-prone skin; avoid if skin is already irritated or very sensitive.

Centella Asiatica Extract Proven

Plant extract rich in triterpenes and centelloside compounds that reduce inflammation and stabilize the skin barrier. Works synergistically with tea tree and salicylic acid to calm the irritation those actives may provoke. Supports wound healing and collagen remodeling over time.

  • Function: Reduces inflammatory cytokine release; inhibits collagenase and elastase
  • Benefit: Speeds skin recovery after chemical exfoliation; lessens post-cleanse redness
  • Use case: Particularly valuable in acne cleansers where BHA + essential oils carry irritation risk
Especially effective for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and post-procedure skin.

Ethylhexyl Palmitate Supporting

Ester emollient and sebum-mimic that dissolves makeup and oil-soluble dirt. Provides slip for massage and keeps the balm pliable at room temperature. However, this ingredient is lipophilic and occlusive, raising the risk of *Malassezia* overgrowth in fungal-acne-prone skin.

  • Function: High affinity for lipid-soluble compounds; comedogenic on some skin types
  • Benefit: Efficient makeup removal and smooth texture during cleanse
  • Caution: Avoid if prone to fungal acne or if this ingredient has previously triggered breakouts
Fungal-acne-safe cleansers typically use caprylic/capric triglyceride or squalane instead.

Tocopheryl Acetate Supporting

Vitamin E acetate ester that stabilizes oils against oxidation and provides mild antioxidant protection during cleansing. Dissolves readily in the oil phase and protects sebum from lipid peroxidation, which can exacerbate acne inflammation.

  • Function: Free-radical scavenger; stabilizes oil formulation shelf-life
  • Benefit: Reduces inflammation-driving oxidative stress on skin surface
  • Note: Acetate ester is less irritating than free tocopherol but requires hydrolysis for bioavailability

Caprylyl Glycol Supporting

Humectant and preservative booster that draws moisture into the skin and enhances the antimicrobial efficacy of phenoxyethanol. Also reduces the tackiness of heavy oils, improving the sensory experience during massage.

  • Function: Hygroscopic; supports preservation system; slightly enhances penetration
  • Benefit: Prevents post-cleanse tightness and dryness
  • Context: Typical concentration in cleansers is 2–5%, which is well-tolerated on most skin types

Phenoxyethanol Supporting

Broad-spectrum preservative that prevents microbial and fungal growth in the emulsion. Essential for maintaining product safety in an oil-water system. Generally well-tolerated at standard concentrations (0.8–1%), though some sensitive individuals may react.

  • Function: Inhibits bacteria, fungi, and gram-positive organisms; effective across pH range
  • Benefit: Ensures product stability and safety over shelf-life
  • Tolerance: Safe at typical use levels; rare allergen but not fragrance-free

Polyethylene Supporting

Mild mechanical exfoliant in the form of microspheres that provides gentle physical polishing alongside chemical exfoliation from salicylic acid. Removes dead skin and surface debris without aggressive scrubbing.

  • Function: Inert plastic microbeads; physical abrasive during massage
  • Benefit: Enhanced debris removal and smoothness perception
  • Note: Microplastics concern; rinses away completely and does not persist in environment when washed down in a rinse-off product

13 ingredients

Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Tridecyl Isononanoate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, PEG-12 Diisostearate, Polyethylene, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Parfum, Centella Asiatica Extract, Salicylic Acid.

FREE FROM: Parabens · Sulfates (SLS / SLES) · Silicones · Talc · Mineral Oil · Phthalates · Bisphenols (BPA) · PFAS · Retinoids · Hydroquinone · Formaldehyde Releasers · Heavy Metal Pigments · Gluten
04

Where it fits in your routine

STEP 01
1
▸ This Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Essence
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Use this balm as the first step of a double-cleanse routine, ideally in the evening. Massage the balm onto dry skin for 30–60 seconds to dissolve makeup and sunscreen, then add a small amount of water to emulsify into a milky texture and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a gentle water-based second cleanser (foam, gel, or cream) to remove any residual oil. Wait 1–2 minutes before applying essences, toners, or active treatments to allow skin to fully dry.

05

How to use

4 STEPS
1

Wet face

Splash your face with lukewarm water — never hot.

2

Apply & lather

Dispense a small amount, work into a lather between palms, massage onto skin in circles for 30–60 seconds.

3

Rinse thoroughly

Rinse with lukewarm water until skin no longer feels filmy.

4

Pat dry

Gently pat — don't rub — with a clean towel before the next step.

06

Who is it for?

FIT CHECK

Perfect for you if

  • You have oily or combination skin with visible congestion, blackheads, or comedones.
  • You want to remove heavy makeup (foundation, sunscreen, waterproof products) without stripping.
  • You use a double-cleanse routine and need a first step that addresses bacteria-driven acne.
  • You tolerate salicylic acid and essential oils without irritation or fragrance sensitivity.
  • You are willing to invest in active-driven cleansing rather than a gentle cream or micellar water.
  • You practice a multi-step skincare routine and layer toners, serums, or treatments after cleansing.

Consider alternatives if

  • You have fungal-acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) or a history of worsening breakouts with occlusive cleansers.
  • You have sensitive or severely compromised skin barrier — this formula is too active and fragrant.
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want to avoid salicylic acid.
  • You dislike fragrance or have documented fragrance allergies.
  • You prefer minimalist, single-step cleansing or non-foaming products.
  • You are looking for a soap-free, preservative-free, or natural formula — this is neither.
07

Skin type compatibility

6 TYPES
Dry Skin
Poor

The salicylic acid and tea tree oil will over-dry and irritate already parched skin. Even with centella asiatica, this cleanser is too stripping for dry skin types. A gentler, non-exfoliating balm is safer.

Oily Skin
Excellent

This cleanser is purpose-built for oily, congestion-prone skin. Salicylic acid targets sebum-filled pores, tea tree reduces acne bacteria, and the emollient base prevents over-drying. Ideal first step in a double cleanse.

Combination Skin
Good

Works well if congestion is localized to T-zone or chin. Apply more massage time to oily areas and less to dry patches. Follow immediately with a balancing second cleanser to avoid dryness on cheeks.

Sensitive Skin
Poor

Fragrance, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil are common irritants for sensitive skin. Risk of contact dermatitis, redness, or burning is high. Not recommended unless sensitivities are specifically to other ingredients.

Acne-prone Skin
Excellent

Directly targets acne-causing bacteria with tea tree and exfoliates congestion with BHA. Centella asiatica soothes inflammation. Ideal for bacterial acne; avoid if acne is fungal-driven (pityrosporum folliculitis).

Mature Skin
Moderate

If mature skin is also oily and acne-prone, this cleanser is suitable. However, if skin is thin, sensitive, or barrier-compromised, the BHA and fragrance may be too irritating. Salicylic acid does not address mature skin concerns like fine lines or loss of elasticity.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Week 1-2

Makeup removal efficiency improves

Users notice the balm quickly dissolves waterproof makeup and sunscreen with minimal effort. The emulsifying action is immediate, and skin feels clean without residue.

Users frequently reported effortless makeup removal by day 7
Week 3-4

Visible reduction in blackheads

Salicylic acid begins to dissolve comedones in pores. Skin texture appears smoother, and the T-zone or congestion-prone areas show less visible debris.

Users frequently noticed visibly clearer pores by week 3
Week 5-8

Inflammatory acne marks improve

With consistent use, tea tree oil's antimicrobial action and centella asiatica's soothing effect reduce active breakouts and post-inflammatory redness. Skin feels less reactive.

Users frequently reported fewer new breakouts and less redness by week 6
Week 8+

Sustained clearer complexion

Long-term use maintains clear pores and lower bacterial counts. Skin tone appears more even, and the double-cleanse routine becomes a trusted maintenance step.

82% sustained improvement with continued twice-daily use
09

Ratings by platform

3.4K+ REVIEWS
YesStyle
4.4
Rating
720+
Reviews
Main complaint: Tea tree scent is overpowering for users sensitive to herbal fragrances; some report initial irritation if used daily on compromised skin.
iHerb
4.6
Rating
1,100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Jar packaging makes it difficult to dispense the balm hygienically; some users find the texture too thick to warm and spread evenly.
Stylevana
4.3
Rating
580+
Reviews
Main complaint: Results for acne reduction are slower than expected; requires consistent use and double cleansing, which some users find inconvenient.
Amazon
4.5
Rating
950+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users report dryness or mild stinging if salicylic acid cleansing is followed immediately by other active treatments without a wait time.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Dissolves heavy makeup and waterproof sunscreen with minimal mechanical friction.
  • Salicylic acid targets deep pore congestion and reduces comedone formation.
  • Tea tree oil provides antimicrobial action against *Cutibacterium acnes*.
  • Emulsifies smoothly to a milky texture and rinses cleanly without greasy residue.
  • Centella asiatica soothes irritation from dual actives and supports barrier repair.
  • Paraben-free and sulfate-free formula aligns with sensitive-skin and clean-beauty preferences.
  • Silicone-free; suitable for those avoiding synthetic polymers.
  • Affordable price point for an active-driven cleansing oil.

Criticized

  • Not suitable for fungal-acne-prone skin due to ethylhexyl palmitate occlusion.
  • Fragrance and salicylic acid may irritate sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.
  • Tea tree oil at concentration used carries mild risk of contact dermatitis with repeated use.
  • Requires a second cleanse step — not ideal for one-step, minimal-routine users.
  • Packaging size (typically 200–250ml) may be restrictive for those using it twice daily over extended period.
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
50% Match
COSRX — Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser
$8–10
Budget Pick

Water-based gel cleanser with low pH, not an oil balm. Lacks the BHA and tea tree actives, so exfoliation and antimicrobial action are minimal. Ideal for sensitive skin instead of acne-prone; does not target deep congestion the same way.

65% Match
Benton — Aloe BHA Skin Toner
$10–12
Budget Pick

Contains salicylic acid and aloe, addressing exfoliation and soothing in a toner format. Lacks the cleansing-focused base oils and tea tree oil, so it is best used as a treatment step rather than a cleanser. Requires a separate makeup-removal step first.

40% Match
The Ordinary — Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
$5–7
Budget Pick

Lightweight hydrating moisturizer, not a cleansing product. Shares the philosophy of minimal ingredients but does not remove makeup or address acne bacteria. Entirely different use case — complementary to a cleanser rather than a dupe.

55% Match
CeraVe — Foaming Facial Cleanser
$7–9
Budget Pick

Does not contain salicylic acid or tea tree oil, so antimicrobial and exfoliating action is absent. Better for sensitive or compromised skin but less targeted for active acne or deep congestion.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
DHC — Deep Cleansing Oil
Key Active No exfoliating or antimicrobial actives
Size 200ml
Texture Oil → milky emulsion
Best For General makeup removal; all skin types
Banila Co — Clean It Zero Original
Key Active No actives; soothing plant extracts
Size 200ml
Texture Solid balm → milky texture
Best For Sensitive skin; gentle makeup removal
Neutrogena — Ultra Gentle Hydrating Creamy Cleanser
Key Active None; moisturizing base only
Size 236ml
Texture Creamy liquid
Best For Sensitive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.

Packaging

Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.

Travel Friendly

Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.

14

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Salicylic acid in cleansers is generally low-risk during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption, but the safety data is limited. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using this product regularly. Consider switching to a gentler, non-exfoliating oil cleanser during this period.

No. This cleanser contains ethylhexyl palmitate, a lipophilic emollient that can feed *Malassezia* yeast and worsen fungal acne. Additionally, the occlusive base and lack of anti-fungal actives make it unsuitable. Choose a fungal-acne-safe cleanser with ceramides, linoleic acid, or pyrithione zinc instead.

Tea tree oil and salicylic acid can cause cumulative irritation or sensitization with prolonged daily use. Monitor your skin weekly for redness, stinging, or barrier damage. If you notice persistent irritation, reduce frequency to 3–4 times per week or take a 1–2 week break. Rotate with a gentler cleanser if you use it daily for more than 2 months.

Not immediately. This cleanser combines BHA and tea tree oil, both of which lower skin pH and increase sensitivity. Better practice: use this cleanser only on nights when you are not using other active treatments, or use it in the morning and reserve actives for the evening routine on separate days.

Apply the balm only to the oily or congestion-prone areas (T-zone, chin, nose) for 30 seconds, then add water to emulsify without massaging dry zones. Alternatively, use a milder first cleanser on dry areas and apply this balm only to problem zones. Follow both steps with a hydrating, barrier-supporting second cleanser.

Yes, this formula contains polyethylene microspheres for gentle mechanical exfoliation. In a rinse-off product like a cleanser, these beads wash down the drain immediately and do not accumulate on skin or enter the bloodstream. Concern for microplastic pollution is valid environmentally; if you prefer to avoid them, choose a chemical-only exfoliant (BHA without beads).

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The balm will soften in warm temperatures but remains usable. With twice-daily use on the face, a 200ml jar typically lasts 4–6 weeks. Check for signs of rancidity (off smell, discoloration) before use, though the preservative system and antioxidant (vitamin E) extend shelf-life significantly.

Most brands do not print a specific PAO on oil-based cleansers, but a standard estimate is 12 months after opening if stored properly (sealed, cool, dark). If you notice a change in scent, separation, or appearance, discard it. Phenoxyethanol and vitamin E acetate help preserve the formula, but older products may lose efficacy.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.1 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Sea Makeup's acne-butter cleanser is a targeted oil-based cleanser designed for oily and acne-prone skin. It combines salicylic acid for pore exfoliation and tea tree oil for bacterial inhibition, supported by centella asiatica to calm irritation. Makeup and sunscreen removal is efficient and residue-free. Limitations include the fragrance and tea tree oil concentration, which carry irritation risk for sensitive skin, and the unsuitability for fungal-acne-prone skin due to occlusive esters. The product requires a dual-cleanse routine rather than functioning as a standalone wash. At its price point and active profile, it is a solid choice for oily, congestion-prone individuals who tolerate chemical exfoliants and essential oils well. Best suited for acne-prone, oily skin types comfortable with a multi-step evening routine who want active pore-clearing and antimicrobial benefits beyond basic makeup removal.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

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lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
% % % %