Blemish Control Cleanser for mild acne-prone skin

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser is a salicylic acid face wash specifically formulated for oily and mild acne-prone skin. The clear gel formula creates a gentle foam on contact with water, effectively removing dirt and excess oil from the skin's surface without stripping its natural moisture. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid, to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and help reduce the appearance of whiteheads and blackheads, while helping to prevent future breakouts. Purifying clay absorbs excess oil and leaves the skin with a matte finish.

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser is designed for those with oily skin or mild acne-prone skin who want to manage excess oil, reduce blemishes, and keep pores clear as part of their daily skincare routine. It is suitable for use in the morning and/or evening. Because it contains 2% salicylic acid — an active exfoliating ingredient — it is not recommended for those with dry or sensitive skin, or those who are new to salicylic acid, without first patch testing or consulting a dermatologist. It is not suitable for children under 12 years of age without medical advice.

• 2% salicylic acid — a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates into the pore lining to exfoliate dead skin cells, help unclog pores, and reduce the build-up of blemish-causing debris.
• Niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps to soothe and comfort the skin, and has oil-regulating properties that can help minimise the appearance of pores.
• Purifying clay helps absorb excess surface oil, leaving a matte finish.
• Three essential ceramides (ceramide NP, ceramide AP, and ceramide EOP) work to restore and maintain the skin's moisture barrier — particularly important when using active cleansing acids.
• Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid provides lightweight hydration.

Wet your face and massage a small amount of CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser into a lather on the skin. Avoid the eye area. Rinse well and pat dry. The cleanser can be used morning and/or night as part of an oily or acne-prone skincare routine. After cleansing, CeraVe recommends following with CeraVe Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel for a more targeted approach to active blemishes. Complete your routine with a non-comedogenic moisturiser — CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion with SPF 15 in the morning, and a suitable night moisturiser such as CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion in the evening. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen in the morning, as salicylic acid can increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate into the pore lining — unlike water-soluble acids that can only work on the skin's surface. Inside the pore, it dissolves the keratin plugs made up of dead skin cells and sebum that contribute to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. By promoting gentle, ongoing exfoliation of the pore lining, salicylic acid helps reduce congestion, minimise the appearance of pores, and prevent new blemishes from forming.

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser is formulated for oily and mild acne-prone skin rather than sensitive skin. While it is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and contains skin-supporting ceramides, the 2% salicylic acid concentration may cause irritation, dryness, or redness in those with sensitive or reactive skin types. If you have sensitive skin that is also acne-prone, a gentler option such as CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser may be more appropriate for daily cleansing, used alongside targeted acne treatments under the guidance of a dermatologist. Those with a diagnosed skin condition, or who experience persistent irritation, should seek professional advice before introducing salicylic acid products into their routine.

The two cleansers are formulated for different skin types and concerns. CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser is designed for oily and mild acne-prone skin, and contains 2% salicylic acid, niacinamide, and purifying clay to actively target blemishes, excess oil, and clogged pores. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, on the other hand, is a gentle, non-foaming lotion cleanser formulated for normal to dry skin, with no active exfoliating acids — its focus is on cleansing without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Yes, but care should be taken when combining multiple active ingredients to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser can be used as the cleansing step in an acne-focused routine, followed by CeraVe Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel for targeted treatment. If you are using prescription acne treatments — such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics — consult your dermatologist before adding additional salicylic acid products, as combining too many actives can compromise the skin barrier and worsen irritation. Maintaining barrier health with a non-comedogenic moisturiser and daily SPF 50+ sunscreen is especially important when using active treatments.