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CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin - 2 of 4CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin - 3 of 4CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin - 4 of 4
CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin - 1 of 4

CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin - 8 fl oz: Paraben-Free, Alcohol-Free, Gel Form, Exfoliating

$14.29 ($1.79/fluid ounce)See 1 deal for this item

Size8 fl oz

In Stock

Eligible for registries and wish lists
Available deals

Target Circle Deal: $5 Target GiftCard with $30 beauty products purchase

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At a glance

About this item

Highlights

  • CeraVe Acne Control Face Cleanser clears acne and reduces blackheads, and improves the look of pores
  • Acne Treatment Face Wash has a refreshing gel to foam formula that works to gently remove dirt, excess oil, and makeup without leaving skin feeling stripped of moisture
  • Oil-absorbing purifying clay of CeraVe facial wash removes excess oil and minimizes visible shine
  • Face wash for acne prone skin is formulated with salicylic acid (SA) that is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps remove dead skin cells and sebum, reduces blackheads and the appearance of pores, and treats and prevents new acne breakouts
  • Acne Cleanser is formulated with hyaluronic acid helps to retain skin's natural moisture while niacinamide helps to calm skin
  • 3 essential ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
  • Developed with dermatologists
  • CeraVe is the No. 1 dermatologist-recommended moisturizer brand for acne* *No. 1 recommended non-OTC moisturizer brand for acne-prone skin. Source: IQVIA, ProSource Survey, 12/1/20-11/30/21

Description

CeraVe Acne Control Face Wash is formulated with 2% salicylic acid to clear acne and reduce blackheads. Purifying clay helps improve the appearance of pores. Formulated with Oil-Absorbing Technology, in a refreshing gel-to-foam texture, this acne treatment cleanses skin and targets pores, helping prevent new acne breakouts while maintaining the protective skin barrier with 3 essential ceramides.

Key Ingredients:
•2% salicylic acid (SA) is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), an effective exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells and sebum, reduce blackheads and the appearance of pores, and treats and prevents new acne breakouts. This chemical exfoliant feels less harsh than physical ones like face scrubs.
•Hectorite clay helps absorb oil, and helps skin look less shiny
•Three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6 II) help restore the skin’s natural barrier
•Niacinamide helps calm skin

How to Use:
•Cleanse skin morning and night
•After cleansing apply CeraVe Acne Control Gel all over the face for targeted acne treatment
•Finish with your favorite CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion.
As this product can increase skin’s sun sensitivity, also use CeraVe Face Moisturizer with Sunscreen SPF 30.

Brand Story:
Whether you need products for your sensitive, oily, acne-prone, combination or normal skin, need a soothing moisturizer for your baby, have specific skin concerns, like eczema or psoriasis, or just want a hydrating serum or anti-aging cream, CeraVe can help. The CeraVe story began in 2005 after experts noticed that many skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and dry skin all had one thing in common: a compromised skin barrier. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe offers a complete line of skincare products that contain three essential ceramides enhanced with a revolutionary delivery system to help restore the skin’s natural protective barrier.
Scent: Unscented
Health Facts: Paraben-Free, Contains Ceramides, Contains Salicylic Acid, Alcohol-Free, Contains Niacinamide, No Fragrance Added
Product Form: Gel
Package Quantity: 8
Beauty Purpose: Pore Cleansing, Exfoliating, Anti-Acne
Recommended Skin Type: Acne-Prone, Combination, Oily
Net weight: 8 fl oz (US)
Features: Dermatologist Recommended
TCIN: 82403938
UPC: 3606000577138
Item Number (DPCI): 037-12-6094
Origin: Assem USA w/foreign/dom. parts
Healthcare Disclaimer:
Content on this site is for reference purposes only. Target does not represent or warrant that the nutrition, ingredient, allergen and other product information on our Web or Mobile sites are accurate or complete, since this information comes from the product manufacturers. On occasion, manufacturers may improve or change their product formulas and update their labels. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented on our Web or Mobile sites and that you review the product's label or contact the manufacturer directly if you have specific product concerns or questions. If you have specific healthcare concerns or questions about the products displayed, please contact your licensed healthcare professional for advice or answers.
If the item details aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it.

Active ingredients

salicylic acid' '2.0%

Purpose

Acne Treatment

Uses

Uses clears acne blemishes and allows skin to heal, helps prevent new acne blemishes from forming

Directions

Directions use twice daily, wet face, then work product into a lather, massage onto face avoiding the eyes, rinse well

Other information

Other information store at 20 - 25℃ (68-77°F) protect from excessive moisture

Inactive ingredients

water, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, glycerin, niacinamide, gluconolactone, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, peg-150 pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, ceramide np, ceramide ap, ceramide eop, carbomer, calcium gluconate, triethyl citrate, sodium benzoate, sodium hydroxide, sodium lauroyl lactylate, cholesterol, tetrasodium edta, caprylyl glycol, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate, xanthan gum, hectorite, phytosphingosine, benzoic acid

Shipping details

Estimated ship dimensions: 1.3 inches length x 2.8 inches width x 6.77 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.602 pounds

Return details

This item can be returned to any Target store or Target.com.
This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, delivered to the guest, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or picked up by the guest.
See the return policy for complete information.

Q: Can I use this product as well as Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, or would that be too much salicylic acid on my face?

submitted by Ryan - 10 months ago
  • A: Hello Ryan. Thank you for your interest in CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin. it is generally safe to use both a salicylic acid cleanser and a salicylic acid toner in your skincare routine, but it's crucial to use them with caution and consider rotating them on separate days. We hope this information has been helpful and that you can use our products with great success!

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 10 months ago
    Brand expert
  • A: Hey Ryan, Yes, it is generally safe to use both a salicylic acid cleanser and a salicylic acid toner in your skincare routine, but it's crucial to use them with caution and potentially adjust the frequency of use based on your skin's reaction. For all your future beauty questions, get real-time answers using the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button, found on every product page.

    submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 10 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: How well does this lather? Or is it more like a cream cleanser?

submitted by toni - 11 months ago
  • A: Hello toni, Thank you for your interest in CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purfiying Clay for Oily Skin. The Cerave Acne Face Cleanser dispenses as a clear gel and transforms into a light, foaming face wash as you lather. The gentle wash and exfoliation smooths, hydrates, and cleanses skin without leaving a stripped, tight feeling. We hope you will give it a try soon!

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 11 months ago
    Brand expert
  • A: Hey Toni, Great question! The Cerave Acne Face Cleanser dispenses as a clear gel and transforms into a light, foaming face wash as you lather. The gentle wash and exfoliation smooths, hydrates, and cleanses skin without leaving a stripped, tight feeling. For all your future beauty questions, get real-time answers using the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button, found on every product page.

    submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 11 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Is this like a lotion or like a soap to wash off

submitted by Uriel - 1 year ago
  • A: Hello Uriel! Our CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser is designed to be used as a wash-off cleanser, similar to a facial soap. You'll want to apply it to wet skin, massage it gently to create a lather, and then rinse completely. It's not a leave-on product like a lotion.

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 1 year ago
    Brand expert
  • A: Great question Uriel! CeraVe Acne Control is a face cleanser that is formulated with 2% salicylic acid to clear acne and reduce blackheads and improve the appearance of pores by helping absorb oil. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page.

    submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 1 year ago
    Brand expert

Q: Is the product free from parabens?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
  • A: Yes, this cleanser is paraben-free.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
    Ai generated

Q: What type of skin is this cleanser recommended for?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
  • A: This cleanser is recommended for dry and normal skin types.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
    Ai generated

Q: What active ingredient helps with acne in this product?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
  • A: The active ingredient is 2% salicylic acid which helps treat acne.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
    Ai generated

Q: What is the form of this acne cleanser?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
  • A: The cleanser comes in a liquid form.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
    Ai generated

Q: Is the cleanser safe for sensitive skin?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
  • A: Yes, it is safe to use on sensitive skin.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 1 month ago
    Ai generated

Q: Can a 9 year old use this or is it too harsh for a young child’s skin?

submitted by KA - 5 months ago
  • A: Hello KA. Thank you for your interest in CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin. Unless specifically labeled for use on children, our products are not formulated for or tested for use on children. Our children’s products are not tested on children under the age of 3 years except those labeled as baby products. Please check with your child's pediatrician if you have questions about the use of a specific product. In accordance with US Consumer Product Safety Commission’s definition, we consider a child to be 12 years old and under.

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 5 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Will this stain or bleach my towels?

submitted by Sarah - 5 months ago
  • A: Hello Sarah. Thank you for your interest in CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin. Typically Salicylic Acid will not stain fabrics (Benzyol Peroxide will though-this product does not contain that ingredient). We would recommend letting your skin air dry after using this product as a precaution. We hope this information has been helpful and that you can use our products with great success.

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 5 months ago
    Brand expert

Additional product information and recommendations

Guests are saying

The Cerave Acne Control Cleanser is a highly effective solution for managing acne and breakouts, featuring key ingredients like salicylic acid and ceramides that cleanse without over-drying the skin. Guests appreciate its gentle gel texture, which foams lightly and rinses off cleanly, leaving skin feeling soft and balanced. Many have noted improvements in their skin's clarity and smoothness over time, making it a reliable choice for daily skincare routines.
    Summary created by AI from text of reviews reflecting recent feedback provided across different star ratings (includes incentivized reviews)
    4.5 out of 5 stars with 2855 reviews
    effectiveness: 3.56 out of 5
    quality: 3.73 out of 5
    value: 3.59 out of 5
    62% would recommend
    168 recommendations
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    25 March, 2026Verified purchase

    Clear Glowing Skin

    My 14 year old swears by this face cleanser. I use a different brand now that my skin is aging and dries out more easily, but she swears by this one and her skin literally glows! At her age I had horribly oily acne prone skin and used harsh cleansers that made it worse. I love that this generation knows so much more about skin care and actually put the work in to taking care of it and not just covering it with makeup. My daughter's friends ask her all the time what she uses because her skin is always so clear and the texture is so smooth. She is genetically prone to oily acne prone skin, so the fact that she's found something that works so well at such a young age is wonderful.
    MamaBair
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    24 March, 2026Verified purchase

    CereVe Acne Control Cleanser

    Great treatment for acne. Affordable and convenient.
    John Mutz
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    20 March, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Great option for acne skin gentle cleanser

    The packaging is nice and easy to clean and it lathers well. It’s easy to rinse and it leaves your skin slightly dry but nothing crazy. You can follow up with a moisturizer. I didn’t notice my pores shrinking but they were cleaned really well.
    MisbaahM
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    16 March, 2026Verified purchase

    Gentle but Effective on Adult Acne

    This cleanser is considerably gentler than the benzoyl peroxide face wash I've been using and you don't have to massage it in for 1-2 minutes like the BP cleanser. Also, no BP discoloration of towels, etc. After switching to this, I realized the BP cleanser I was using was too harsh, stripping my skin too much and damaging my skin's protective layer. This gave me better results with far less irritation. Can also alternate with with CeraVe hydrating cleanser if you need a little more moisture. I'm sure BP cleansers are right for some, but this one is better for me.
    LoveMyLily
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    10 March, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    An Essential Skincare Step!

    An important part of anyone’s daily skincare routine should include a good cleanser, CeraVe’s Acne Control Cleanser is just that. An effective formula featuring a clear gel texture that works easily into wet skin, giving some sudsy lather while comfortably removing dirt and grime from the day. This scentless cleanser is formulated with three essential ceramides, niacinamide and 2% salicylic acid to keep skin clear, calm and hydrated.
    AllisonH
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    27 February, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Helps control my breakouts

    I use this every day on my face to help prevent breakouts and blackheads. I use it in my morning and during my night routine. It doesn't sting my face. I think it helps clear up my skin. It does have two percent salicylic acid acne treatment with oil absorbing technology.
    SierraB
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    23 February, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Works really good for who has sent I’ve skin

    Amazing product works well on sensitive skin no redness & irritation my skin feels brighten & clean very effective product definitely would keep reusing this !! Love that it also feel smooth & does gives my skin dry !! Super love !!
    AizaG
    Did you find this review helpful?
    4 out of 5 stars
    15 February, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.com
    Image

    BLEMISH CONTROL AND ACNE CONTROL BOTH ARE SAME GEL

    well i just started using its been 4 to 5 days ofc didnt get result in 3 days as i have closed comodones(white heads ....it will take about 4 to 5 weeks u will also see some new acne forming but its good means its just taking out the remain acne to give u smooth and reduction in acne skin so i hope i will see results ...BEST OF LUCK TO ME AND U GUYS TOO....BLEMISH CONTROL AND ACNE CONTROL BOTH ARE SAME GEL AS TEY BOTH INCLUDE AHA BHA
    AABBCC
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    10 February, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    It worked really well for me , helping control bre

    In my experience, it has worked really well for my , it helped control breacouts without irritating or drying my skin , and my skin feels more balanced with regular use .
    yeneyrm_6950
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    7 February, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.com
    Image

    Made Acne Worse

    It gave me more acne and blackheads. I used it for months hoping for better results and eventually had to switch to a better face wash.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 1 month ago
    Hello Kimmy! We are very sorry to hear about your experience with our Acne Control Cleanser. We would like to speak to you directly about this. Please contact us at 888-768-2915 M-F 9:00 am – 5:30 pm ET for assistance and provide the reference #45179239. We look forward to speaking with you!
    Kimmy
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    1 out of 5 stars
    26 January, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.ca
    Image

    Coconut acid acne breakout

    Coconut acid was recently added and it's causing breakout to me & even some of my friends i introduced it to. I won't buy again until the Coconut acid is removed entirely
    1 reply from BEC team - 2 months ago
    We are sorry about your experience with our Acne Control Cleanser. We want to help in the best way we can. Therefore, we have forwarded your comments to the appropriate department for further assistance. A member from our team will get in touch with you shortly.
    Abrock
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    19 January, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.com
    Image

    Most horrible product ive used EVER.

    I got this from the CeraVe Anti-Acne Starter Kit, Which includes the Acne Control Cleanser, Most reviews say it is amazing, but the thing is is that it caued my skin to irritate so bad that it looks worser than what my skin used to look like, I followed the instructions and it turned out horribly, The first 2 days looked good, but then all of a sudden my skin is irritated, i have no allergies, and i have seen photos of other people getting the same issue like before, Not a chemical burn, nor infection Im really dissapointed how my skin has turned out when i bought and used a product that is from a brand that was developed by dermatologists, but yet cannot even make proper products to even solve something that alot of teens go through in puberty.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 2 months ago
    Hello Customer! We are very sorry to hear about your experience with our Acne Control Gel. We would like to speak to you directly about this. Please contact us at 888-768-2915 M-F 9:00 am – 5:30 pm ET for assistance and provide the reference #44879375. We look forward to speaking with you!
    Customer
    3 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    1 out of 5 stars
    16 January, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.com
    Image

    Made me break out more

    I really wanted this to work because CeraVe has a good reputation and I was willing to spend a little more if necessary to clear my acne. However, after about two weeks I started to get worse breakouts, and my acne seemed to be taking longer than usual to go away. I was using it with benzoyl peroxide (which has always worked okay for me), and I was hoping the combination would work better than BP alone. Unfortunately, that didn't seem to be the case so I'll have to keep looking for effective acne treatment products.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 2 months ago
    Hello Katie! We are very sorry to hear about your experience with our Acne Control Cleanser. We would like to speak to you directly about this. Please contact us at 888-768-2915 M-F 9:00 am – 5:30 pm ET for assistance and provide the reference #44844621. We look forward to speaking with you!
    Katie
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    6 January, 2026Verified purchase

    Works great!

    Has been great for my teenagers skin even during hockey season!
    Lindsay
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 4 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    4 out of 5 stars
    6 January, 2026Verified purchase

    Good Acne Cleanser, Use with Moisturizer

    This cleanser works well for oily and acne-prone skin. It helps control oil and keep pores clean without feeling too harsh. The salicylic acid is effective, and my skin feels refreshed after washing. I did notice slight dryness if used too often, so I recommend pairing it with a good moisturizer. Overall, a solid and reliable cleanser.
    Joyce
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    5 January, 2026Verified purchase

    Great Cleanser

    After CeraVe starting trending on social media, one of my kids just had to try it. I was skeptical at first, but I went ahead and bought some. That was a year or so ago and I've been buying it ever since. Even though I have my own preferred brands, I end up using this at least once a week. I really like the way it makes my face feel afterwards. Nice and clean.
    MNight
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 4 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    26 December, 2025
    originally posted on cerave.com
    Image

    Awesome Product!

    I love it! I've recently been breaking out a lot, and once i started using this, it's starting to clear up! My skin is extremely sensitive and dry, but this is perfect! 10/10!
    Jess
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    25 December, 2025Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Love this stuff! It’s gentle and non drying for my combo skin
    Rebecca
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    4 out of 5 stars
    27 November, 2025
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Effective for breakouts, gentle foam, slightly dry

    I have acne-prone skin, and this cleanser really helps with breakouts.🧴 It foams nicely and has a smooth texture, making it easy to apply. However, it can be drying and leaves my skin feeling tight after use, so I can’t use it every day. The consistency is just right, not too runny or too thick. Despite this, it works well for acne and lasts a long time, so a little goes a long way. Overall, I would recommend it for acne-prone skin, just not for daily use if your skin is sensitive.
    marianav208_5384
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    21 November, 2025Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    I like this, but delivery (more like packaging) was terrible. It was the only one leaking. I know the rating is for the item, but I’m rating the service as a 3 star.
    Yuiwaan
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    3 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

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