So Totally Clean Deep Pore Cleanser
So Totally Clean Deep Pore Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A no-rinse toning cleanser with 0.5% Salicylic Acid that sweeps away dirt, oil, and makeup residue on a cotton pad. Based on the iconic Ten-O-Six formula from 1933, it gently exfoliates and deep cleans pores to help prevent acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Sweeps away dirt, oil, and leftover makeup residue that your regular cleanser may miss. Cotton pad turns visibly dirty after use.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
Sweeps away dirt, oil, and leftover makeup residue that your regular cleanser may miss. Cotton pad turns visibly dirty after use.
Dual Acid Exfoliation
Combines BHA (Salicylic Acid) to unclog pores with AHA (Lactic Acid) to gently dissolve dead skin cells on the surface.
Acne Prevention
Salicylic acid is an FDA-approved acne treatment that penetrates oil-filled pores to prevent new pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
No-Rinse Convenience
Simply apply to a cotton pad and wipe across the face. No water needed, making it ideal for quick cleansing or on-the-go use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA). While low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low risk, many dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
Formula is free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Alcohol Denat. is the first ingredient, which can be drying and irritating for dry or sensitive skin types. Always follow with moisturizer.
Contains fragrance plus multiple EU-listed fragrance allergens (limonene, linalool, eugenol, citral, coumarin, isoeugenol, and more). Patch test if you have fragrance sensitivities.
Lightweight liquid formula with no oils or heavy emollients. Very low risk of clogging pores (comedogenic rating 1/5).
Salicylic acid and lactic acid can increase photosensitivity. Always use sunscreen during the day when using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that cause acne. FDA-approved OTC acne treatment ingredient.
- Function: Exfoliates inside pores, dissolves blackheads and whiteheads, prevents new breakouts
- Evidence: Extensively studied and FDA-approved for acne treatment at concentrations of 0.5%–2%
- Note: At 0.5%, this is the lowest effective OTC concentration — gentle but may be less potent than 2% products
Lactic Acid Undisclosed %Proven
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin surface by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells. Also acts as a humectant to draw moisture into skin.
- Function: Surface exfoliation, skin brightening, mild hydration
- Evidence: Well-documented AHA with gentle exfoliating and moisturizing properties
- Synergy: Works alongside salicylic acid for both surface and pore-level exfoliation
Sodium PCA Undisclosed %Proven
A naturally occurring component of skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). One of the most effective humectants available, helping to offset the drying effects of alcohol in this formula.
- Function: Humectant, helps maintain skin hydration
- Evidence: Part of the skin's own moisturizing system; well-tolerated by all skin types
Allantoin Undisclosed %Proven
A skin-soothing and conditioning agent that helps calm irritation. Acts as a buffer against the potentially harsh effects of alcohol and acids in the formula.
- Function: Anti-irritant, skin protectant, promotes cell renewal
- Evidence: FDA-recognized skin protectant with well-established soothing properties
Alcohol Denat. 1st IngredientFunctional
Denatured alcohol is the primary solvent in this formula. It provides the instant-drying, oil-cutting, and antiseptic properties that make this product effective at deep cleaning pores.
- Function: Solvent, degreaser, antimicrobial, fast-drying agent
- Trade-off: Excellent at cutting oil and delivering actives, but can strip skin's moisture barrier over time
23 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 0.5%
Inactive Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Water (Aqua), Sodium PCA, Lactic Acid, Fragrance/Parfum, Allantoin, Sodium Carbonate, Amyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Citral, Coumarin, Eugenol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, Isoeugenol, Limonene, Linalool, FD&C Red 4 (CI 14700), FD&C Yellow 5 (CI 19140), FD&C Yellow 6 (CI 15985)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing as a toning step. Can also be used as a standalone no-rinse cleanser on lazy skincare days. Follow with moisturizer to prevent dryness. Best used in PM routine; if using AM, always apply sunscreen after.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First (Optional)
For best results, wash your face with your regular cleanser first. This product also works as a standalone no-rinse cleanser if needed.
Apply to Cotton Pad
Moisten a cotton pad or ball with the product. There is no need to soak it — a moderate amount is sufficient.
Wipe Over Face & Neck
Gently wipe the cotton pad across your entire face and neck, avoiding the eye area. You may notice the pad picking up residual dirt and oil.
Start Slowly
Begin with once daily. Gradually increase to 2–3 times daily if tolerated. If dryness or peeling occurs, reduce to once daily or every other day.
Moisturize
Always follow with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to counteract the drying effects of alcohol and acids in the formula.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or blemish-prone skin
- You want a quick no-rinse cleansing step
- You deal with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You love the nostalgic Ten-O-Six / old-school clean feeling
- You want an affordable salicylic acid toner under $10
- You need a toning cleanser for lazy skincare days
Consider alternatives if:
- You have dry or dehydrated skin (high alcohol content)
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
- You are sensitive to fragrance or fragrance allergens
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
- You prefer alcohol-free skincare
- You want a higher-concentration BHA (this is only 0.5%)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis product was made for oily skin. The alcohol base cuts through excess oil quickly, and salicylic acid prevents clogged pores. Leaves a satisfying matte finish.
Not recommended. High alcohol content will strip already dry skin and may cause flaking, tightness, and irritation. Consider alcohol-free BHA alternatives instead.
Works well on oily T-zone areas. Consider applying only to oily zones and skipping dry cheeks. Follow with moisturizer on drier areas.
High alcohol content plus fragrance allergens make this a risky choice for sensitive skin. Multiple reviewers report stinging and irritation. Patch test essential.
Specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid treats existing breakouts and prevents new ones. Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Deep Clean
Cotton pad visibly picks up dirt, oil, and makeup residue. Skin feels noticeably cleaner, tighter, and mattified after first use.
90% noticed cleaner skin immediatelyOil Control & Pore Refinement
Daily use begins to regulate oil production. Pores appear smaller and less congested. Some users may experience mild purging as clogged pores clear out.
70% noticed reduced oilinessFewer Breakouts
Consistent use of salicylic acid starts to show meaningful reduction in new pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Skin texture becomes smoother.
65% noticed fewer breakoutsClearer, More Even Complexion
Long-term users report consistently clearer skin with minimal breakouts. The dual-acid exfoliation helps even out skin tone and texture over time.
60% reported visibly clearer skinRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly effective at removing residual dirt and oil — cotton pad turns visibly dirty
- Very affordable at under $9 for 200ml
- Iconic formula trusted by generations since 1933
- No-rinse convenience saves time
- HSA/FSA eligible as an OTC acne treatment
- Vegan, paraben-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Leaves skin feeling deeply clean and refreshed
Criticized
- Alcohol Denat. is the first ingredient — very drying
- Strong medicinal scent that some find unpleasant
- Contains multiple fragrance allergens
- Only 0.5% salicylic acid (lowest effective dose)
- Not suitable for dry or sensitive skin
- Contains FD&C dyes (Red 4, Yellow 5, Yellow 6)
- Can cause stinging, tightness, or peeling
- 6.75 oz bottle may not last long with daily use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Pre-soaked pads with 4x the salicylic acid concentration (2% vs 0.5%). Alcohol-free formula is gentler on skin. No fragrance. More potent BHA treatment in a convenient pad format.
Higher concentration salicylic acid (2%) in a water-based solution. No alcohol, no fragrance. More targeted BHA treatment but lacks the toning/cleansing function of So Totally Clean.
Rinse-off foaming cleanser instead of a no-rinse toner. Contains 2% salicylic acid. Different format but addresses the same acne concerns. Dermatologist-recommended.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep tightly capped to prevent alcohol evaporation.
Plastic bottle with screw cap and foil purity seal
Yes, but 200ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Transfer to a smaller container for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid, a BHA. While low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low risk by ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), many dermatologists still recommend avoiding salicylic acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. Safer alternatives during pregnancy include glycolic acid or azelaic acid products.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. The formula does not contain ferments, fatty acids (like oleic or lauric acid), fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or other ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast. The alcohol-based formula and salicylic acid may actually help manage fungal acne by keeping pores clear and reducing excess oil.
Use caution when layering with other active ingredients. This product already contains salicylic acid (BHA) and lactic acid (AHA), so adding additional acids or retinol on top can increase irritation risk. If you want to use retinol, apply it on alternate nights. Vitamin C can generally be used in the AM while using this product in the PM. Avoid layering other BHA or AHA products directly after this cleanser to prevent over-exfoliation.
This product is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. It works well for combination skin when applied to oily zones (T-zone). It is not recommended for dry or sensitive skin due to the high alcohol content and multiple fragrance allergens. If you have normal skin with occasional breakouts, it can be used as a targeted spot treatment or occasional deep-cleansing step.
You will notice cleaner-feeling skin immediately after the first use, as the cotton pad visibly picks up dirt and oil. Oil control and reduced shine typically improve within 1–2 weeks. Meaningful reduction in breakouts and blackheads usually takes 3–4 weeks of consistent daily use, as salicylic acid needs time to clear congested pores. Full results for clearer, smoother skin are typically seen after 6–8 weeks.
Use it as Step 2 or 3 in your routine: after makeup removal and/or your regular cleanser, but before serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Apply to a cotton pad and wipe across your face. It functions as a toning cleanser — think of it as a hybrid between a toner and a second cleanse. Some users also use it as a standalone no-rinse cleanser on days when they want a quick routine.
No, this product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is a lightweight liquid with no oils, waxes, or heavy emollients. The formula is designed to unclog pores, not block them. Salicylic acid actively works inside pores to dissolve sebum and prevent clogging. The formula is also fungal acne safe.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. Keep the bottle tightly capped when not in use to prevent the alcohol from evaporating, which could change the formula's consistency and effectiveness. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. With daily use, the 200ml / 6.75 fl oz bottle typically lasts 2–3 months.
Verdict: Formula 10.0.6 So Totally Clean Deep Pore Cleanser is a nostalgic, no-frills toning cleanser that genuinely delivers on its promise to deep-clean oily, acne-prone skin at a budget-friendly price. The salicylic acid and lactic acid combination effectively unclogs pores and prevents breakouts, and the no-rinse cotton pad format is unbeatable for convenience. However, the formula shows its age: alcohol as the primary ingredient and a heavy fragrance load are dealbreakers for anyone with dry, sensitive, or reactive skin. If you have oily skin and don't mind the old-school medicinal scent, this is a reliable, affordable workhorse. If you want a more modern, skin-barrier-friendly BHA, look at Paula's Choice BHA Liquid or Stridex pads instead.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Parfum
Masking, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Soothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Carbonate
Bulking Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
|