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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)

Size8 fl oz

In Stock

Eligible for registries and wish lists

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: Contains Ceramides, Paraben-Free, 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 - 1 year ago
  • 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 - 1 year ago
    Brand expert
  • 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 - 1 year ago
    Brand expert

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

submitted by toni - 1 year 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 - 1 year 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 - 1 year ago
    Brand expert

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

submitted by Uriel - 1 year ago
  • 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
  • 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

Q: Is the product free from parabens?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
  • A: Yes, this cleanser is paraben-free.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
    Ai generated

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

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
  • A: This cleanser is recommended for dry and normal skin types.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
    Ai generated

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

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
  • A: The active ingredient is 2% salicylic acid which helps treat acne.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
    Ai generated

Q: What is the form of this acne cleanser?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
  • A: The cleanser comes in a liquid form.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
    Ai generated

Q: Is the cleanser safe for sensitive skin?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 3 months ago
  • A: Yes, it is safe to use on sensitive skin.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 3 months 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 - 6 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 - 6 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Will this stain or bleach my towels?

submitted by Sarah - 7 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 - 7 months ago
    Brand expert

Additional product information and recommendations

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Guests also viewed

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 2901 reviews
    effectiveness: 3.61 out of 5
    quality: 3.77 out of 5
    value: 3.64 out of 5
    63% would recommend
    170 recommendations
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    18 May, 2026

    (no review title)

    The cerave acne control cleanser is a good product it helps me clean my acne and boosts my confidence
    Dada
    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
    8 May, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    the best drugstore acne cleanser!

    Cleanses my skin well, gets rid of all the oil. I'd say its a bit drying though, so maybe not so good for dry skin. Fully reccomend for people with oily skin or combo. It's scentless, good for sensitive skin.
    RainN
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    3 May, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    It doesn't irritate the skin

    If you’re tired of oily skin and Blackheads,this the solution .Its effective because it treats your Skin with respect instead of stripping it bare .No fancy fragrances or harsh chemicals it doesn’t irritate the skin
    DianamaryA
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    2 May, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Good for stopping acne and pimples

    It’s giant for its price, it has helped my acne and pimples get reduced, it causes no irritation and does not leave my skin oily, it is clear and not colored, and it’s feels good
    IbrahimI
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    1 May, 2026Verified purchase

    Great product for teenage son

    Bought this for my teenage son, he is starting to get some acne on his forehead and looking for some face wash. Very happy with purchase!
    Jodi
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    29 April, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.com
    Image

    Contact Dermatitis Flop

    Gave me contact dermatitis which I have never had until this product unfortunately. Had to go see a dermatologist to reverse the damage.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 27 days ago
    Hello aka19! We are sorry to hear about the experience you had with Acne Control Gel. We would like to speak with you directly about it. Please give us a call @888-768-2915, Monday through Friday, 9AM to 5:30PM EST, for assistance and provide the case #46314144. Looking forward to speaking with you. It would be helpful if you could have the product available when you call.
    aka19
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    26 April, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    really clears up my face
    April
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    23 April, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Go to - gentle but very effective
    Madison
    Did you find this review helpful?
    4 out of 5 stars
    20 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Good value

    Recently bought this for my kids as they were needing something more for their skin with sweat and little breakouts. This seems good so far. Not to thick, and easy to pump product. My kids are 8 and 13. The small is light, rises very well, and doesn’t seem to cause irritation.
    LisaT
    Did you find this review helpful?
    2 out of 5 stars
    16 April, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.ca
    Image

    Did nothing

    I used this product for around 2 months. This product did nothing whatsoever to my acne-prone skin. I expected way more.
    1 reply from BEC team - 1 month ago
    Thank you for your feedback regarding our Acne Control Cleanser. We regret that this product did not meet your expectations. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid and purifying hectorite clay, this fragrance-free cleanser is designed to target acne, blackheads, and excess oil while utilizing three essential ceramides and niacinamide to help maintain and calm the skin’s protective barrier. We may suggest paring this product with our Acne Control Gel, a daily 2% salicylic acid treatment that clears breakouts and prevents new ones. Its oil-free formula combines AHAs and BHAs for gentle exfoliation with niacinamide and essential ceramides. To smooth the skin and restore its natural protective barrier without irritation. For more information please click on this link: https://www.cerave.ca/en-ca/skincare/acne/acne-control-gel
    review
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    15 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    ✨ The cleanser that actually helped my skin stay u

    I’ve been using these Acne control cleanser from CeraVe for years and I honestly really like it. I struggle with occasional breakouts and sensitive skin, so I’m always careful with what I use but these one has been super gentle while still helping keep my skin clearer. What I like the most is that it cleans the skin really well without leaving it dry or tight. It feels fresh, lightweight and easy to use in my daily routine.😊🌸❤️
    EvaS
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    13 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Cleans and controls acne

    CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser leaves my skin clear and reduces redness and irritation. The dispenser provides just enough product, so there’s no waste. It’s a great value for controlling breakouts without the uncomfortable feeling of stripped, tight skin.
    ReneeC
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    9 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Frescura ,limpieza e hidratante

    After each cleaning, seeing and feeling the result of my face after the rinse is a feeling of freshness and hydration, it is used constantly morning and night and there is no way to avoid it.
    MariaD
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    1 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    It controls the acne without drying your face

    This product really maintains my acne under control and my skin still feels nourished and it not dry. I love using cera ve products do to the consistency of the manufacturer and using good ingredients.
    MarixaA
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    1 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    The best

    It is one of the brands that I like to use daily for facial care. It contributes a lot to my daily routine and you can see the improvement after several uses. It's definitely something I would always buy
    NathalieG
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    1 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Definitely a great option for oily and acne-prone

    I really like the cerave acné control cleanser. It cleans my skin will without drying it out. This is the best product. I use it every day and it has great lasting power.
    NoemiH
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    1 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    The BEST Cleanser for My Skin

    This is the only cleanser that effectively clears my skin without drying it out. It prevents breakouts and helps reduce sebaceous filaments and milia. It’s gentle enough to use both in the morning and at night.
    AnnaM
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    31 March, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    It fits easily into my daily routine.

    I been using this cleanser for a few weeks and I’m really happy with the results. It helped reduce my acne little by little without making my skin feel dry
    RossyM
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    31 March, 2026Verified purchase

    Great for oily skin

    Great for oily skin. Use every day during shower to clean my face specially during summer when the skin is oilier.
    Lidia
    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
    26 March, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Cerave

    Great cleanser for acne-prone skin.My reaction was positive it’s gentle but effective,with no irritation.A little goes a long way,so it lasts a good amount of time .ot helps control oil and keeps my skin feeling clean without drying out. I use it twice daily on damp skin and always follow with moisturizer.the pump bottle is convenient and easy to use. The packanging is simple and very practical.
    MayraJ
    Did you find this review helpful?

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