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Purify acne-prone skin and treat breakouts at the source with the dermatologist-tested action of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash. As the #1 dermatologist-recommended acne-fighting facial cleanser, this 2% Salicylic Acid foaming liquid wash targets deep pore congestion, excess sebum, and active pimples without over-drying the skin. By pairing maximum-strength BHA with Neutrogena's proprietary Micro-Clear Technology, it glides across facial contours effortlessly.
This classic acne cleanser works dynamically to break down trapped skin oils, dissolve keratin plugs within hair follicles, and calm acne-related inflammation. Formulated with skin conditioners like Aloe Vera and Chamomile extracts, the golden amber liquid gel turns into a rich, purifying foam that rinses cleanly away, leaving skin feeling fresh, clear, and thoroughly cleansed.
How It Works & Key Benefits
This product targets active acne papules, blackheads, and pore congestion caused by trapped sebum and dead corneocyte accumulation. By combining lipid-soluble Salicylic Acid (BHA) with a specialized surfactant delivery network, it penetrates deep into oil-filled follicle channels. This targeted action dissolves desmosomal bonds between dead cells, flushes out trapped sebum, and prevents future acne formation while soothing surface irritation.
Core Active Ingredients & What They Do
* 2% Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid): Oil-soluble keratolytic active that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve lipid debris and treat acne breakouts.
* Micro-Clear Technology: Specialized lipophilic delivery complex that speeds up the penetration of active BHA directly to the source of pore blockages.
* Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract & Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract: Soothing botanical extracts that calm skin redness, soothe irritation, and counteract dryness.
* C12-15 Alkyl Lactate: Conditioning ester that helps maintain skin surface softness during cleansing.
Formula Feel, Absorption & Delivery
The liquid gel vehicle dispenses easily from the pump and lathers rapidly when worked with water into a gentle, airy foam. As the lather is massaged across facial contours, the Micro-Clear matrix delivers 2% Salicylic Acid into pore openings without requiring mechanical scrubbing. It rinses away completely with lukewarm water, leaving zero heavy, oily, or sticky residue behind.
Skin Barrier & Surface Finish
Formulated as an active BHA treatment cleanser, the wash purifies excess surface sebum and clears follicle openings. Once rinsed, it leaves a fresh, matte, clean-touch finish. Because 2% Salicylic Acid can increase stratum corneum dryness with frequent use, pairing with a lightweight, oil-free non-comedogenic moisturizer helps support optimal skin barrier hydration.
Skin Type Suitable for oily, combination, and active acne-prone skin types experiencing pimples, blackheads, or clogged pores.
Concerns Solved Acne breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, excessive surface sebum, skin congestion, and acne-induced inflammation.
Texture A clear, golden amber liquid gel cleanser that lathers into a light, purifying, non-greasy foam.
Usage Time Optimized for daily use (AM and PM) as a facial cleansing treatment, adjusted based on individual skin tolerance.
Compatible Routines Fits into an acne-clearing skincare regimen. Use as step 1 after removing heavy makeup. Follow with a soothing hydrating toner, oil-free hydration serum, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and broad-spectrum daily sunscreen.
Who Should Avoid It
* Extremely Dry or Compromised Skin Barriers: Individuals with severe dry skin, active eczema flares, or severe rosacea should avoid daily high-strength BHA washes to prevent further barrier disruption.
HOW TO USE
1. Prep: Wet face thoroughly with lukewarm water.
2. Dispense: Pump cleanser into clean hands and work into a rich lather.
3. Massage: Gently massage over face for 30–60 seconds, avoiding the delicate immediate eye area.
4. Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Start with 1 application daily, increasing to 2 times daily if needed or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
Caution
For external cosmetic use only. Avoid direct contact with the ocular cavity and eyelids; if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with clean water without rubbing. Using other topical acne medications at the same time or right after using this product may increase dryness or irritation of the skin. If excessive dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and solar radiation. Keep out of reach of children.