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La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin

La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin - 2 of 4La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin - 3 of 4La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin - 4 of 4
La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin - 1 of 4
$12.99 when purchased online
Target Online store #3991

About this item

Highlights

  • Face wash with 2% Salicylic Acid acne medication
  • Clinically tested to help reduce excess surface oil by up to 47% and clear breakouts, clogged pores, blackheads, and whiteheads
  • Exclusive micro-exfoliating Lipo Hydroxy Acid targets oily areas and removes dirt and debris
  • Dermatologist tested, Allergy tested, Suitable for Sensitive Skin
  • Oil-Free, Paraben-Free, Fragrance-Free

Description

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser with Salicylic Acid is a medicated face cleanser developed with dermatologists, targets excess oil, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads for clearer skin. It contains 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Medication to fight acne breakouts and Lipo Hydroxy Acid to remove debris and dirt from the skin's surface without harsh scrub particles that may irritate skin. Oil-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and allergy-tested, this face wash is gentle enough for daily use on oily skin types.

Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid (2%): fights acne breakouts clear and refine the appearance of pores
Lipo Hydroxy Acid: exfoliates and removes impurities

How to Use:
Cleanse twice daily, in the morning and evening.
Wet face and apply a quarter-sized amount to fingertips.
Gently massage onto the face in a circular motion, avoiding the eye area.
Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft towel.
Follow with Effaclar Mat Moisturizer.

Brand Story: Recommended by 100,000 dermatologists worldwide, La Roche-Posay offers unique daily skincare developed using a strict formulation charter and stringent clinical testing for efficacy and safety, even on sensitive skin.
Scent: Unscented
Health Facts: Paraben-Free, Noncomedogenic, Contains Salicylic Acid, Made Without Parabens
Product Warning: Keep out of reach of children under 6 years of age
Product Form: Gel
Beauty Purpose: Hydrating, Anti-Acne, Moisturizing, Damage Repair, Oil Control, Deep Cleaning
Recommended Skin Type: Mature, Combination, Extra Sensitive, Sensitive, Normal, Oily, Acne-Prone, Very Dry, Dry
Features: Dermatologist Tested, Dermatologist Recommended
TCIN: 89222443
UPC: 3606000605909
Item Number (DPCI): 037-14-0275
Origin: Imported
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 above aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it.

Active ingredients

salicylic acid 2.0%

Purpose

Acne treatment

Uses

Use for the treatment of acne

Directions

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

Inactive ingredients

inactive ingredients water, sodium laureth sulfate, decyl glucoside, glycerin, sodium chloride, coco-betaine, sodium hydroxide, peg-150 pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, citric acid, hexylene glycol, peg-6 caprylic/capric glycerides, zinc gluconate, tetrasodium edta, polyquaternium-47, menthol, capryloyl salicylic acid sodium benzoate

Shipping details

Estimated ship dimensions: 5.86 inches length x 2.44 inches width x 1.65 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.26 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, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup.
See the return policy for complete information.

Q: Can you use this on your back?

submitted by Tucsongal - 8 months ago
  • A: Hi there, Tucsongal! Thank you for reaching out about our Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser. This cleanser helps clear acne blemishes, featuring salicylic acid known for its effective exfoliating properties to help clear and refine the appearance of pores. We hope this is helpful!

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 6 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Hello, can this face wash be used as an all-in-one face wash that removes makeup as well as prevent acne-breakouts? Thank you!

submitted by Ella - 8 months ago
  • A: Hey Ella, Great question! The La Roche Posay Effaclar acne face cleanser does not have makeup removing qualities.We recommend to double cleanse with a cleansing oil or balm first, then follow up with this acne medicated cleanser to achieve best results! 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 - 8 months ago
    Brand expert
  • A: Hello Ella! While our Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser with Salicylic Acid is great for preventing breakouts, it works best on skin that's free of makeup. We recommend using a dedicated makeup remover first, then cleansing with Effaclar. This allows the cleanser to effectively target pores and prevent breakouts. You can find makeup removers tailored for different skin types, including acne-prone skin, within the La Roche-Posay range. This two-step approach will enhance your skincare routine.

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 8 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: hey can I use this and then put Tretinoin on after?

submitted by Nancy - 2 years ago
  • A: Hi there! Thank you for your interest in our products. Based on the information you provided we recommend you speak with a dermatologist to see which products are recommended for your specific skincare needs. If you have any other questions and or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out to us again!

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 2 years ago
    Brand expert
  • A: Hey Nancy, No, it is considered best to completely avoid using any product containing salicylic acid with tretinoin. Unless specified by your doctor! 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 - 2 years ago
    Brand expert

Q: can i use this on oily acne skin?

submitted by me - 5 years ago
  • A: Hello there! Thank you for your interest in La Roche Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Face Cleanser. This cleanser face removes excess oil and impurities and is suitable for acne prone skin. We hope this information is helpful and we wish you great success with our products!

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 5 years ago
    Brand expert
  • A: Hi me! This product is recommended for normal and acne-prone skin types. Hope this helps!

    submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 5 years ago
    Brand expert

Q: I know it helps with breakouts but what kind of breakouts?

submitted by Mee - 5 years ago
  • A: Hi there! Thank you for reaching out about our Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser. This cleanser removes excess oil and helps clear acne breakouts.

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 5 years ago
    Brand expert
  • A: Hi Mee! This product fights acne breakouts and also helps with blackhead removal. Hope this helps!

    submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 5 years ago
    Brand expert

Q: can we use this for normal skin?

submitted by Emily - 5 years ago
  • A: Hi Emily - Thank you for reaching out about Medicated Gel Face Cleanser. This cleanser is recommend for those with acne-prone or normal skin types. We hope you can give it a try soon!

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 5 years ago
    Brand expert
  • A: HI Emily! Our La Roche Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Face Cleanser for Acne Prone Skin can be used on normal to oily, and acne prone skin. It does contain Salicylic Acid which helps to reduce excess oil. Hope this helps!

    submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 5 years ago
    Brand expert

Q: Can I cleanse with this, apply moisturizer to damp skin, wait awhile and then apply differin?

submitted by Ms1124 - 3 months ago
  • A: Hello Ms1124! While you can generally cleanse, moisturize, and then apply a retinoid, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice on your specific skincare routine and product layering, especially when using medicated products. They can assess your skin's needs and recommend the best approach for you.

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 3 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Has anyone tried it for hormonal acne? If so did it help?

submitted by Estefani - 3 months ago
  • A: Hello Estefani. Thank you for your interest in La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin. This salicylic acid face wash is formulated with 2% salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid to remove impurities without harsh scrub particles that may irritate skin. We recommend this product for the following skin concerns: redness, raised pimples whiteheads, clogged pores, oily skin, enlarged pores, shiny skin, uneven skin texture and sensitive skin. We hope this information has been helpful and that you can use our products with great success!

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 3 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Safe for pregnant women?

submitted by Jl - 4 months ago
  • A: Hello Jl! While every ingredient we use in our products is evaluated for safety, we do not specifically test our products on women who are pregnant or nursing. La Roche-Posay ensures there is a substantial information supporting the safety of our products when used as directed by consumers. However, as there could be certain ingredients that physicians may not recommend for use during pregnancy and nursing, we always recommend that you discuss this with your physician and follow their advice.

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 4 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Is this offered in the mini size? I see that some of the other face washes are.

submitted by M - 5 months ago
  • A: Hello M, Thank you for your interest in La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin. This product is currently offered in 3.4 fl oz and 6.7 fl oz sizes. We will be sure to pass your feedback regarding a travel size to our development team. Thank you for your interest in La Roche Posay!

    submitted byLa Roche-Posay Product Expert - 5 months ago
    Brand expert

Related Categories

Guests are saying

This medicated gel face cleanser is highly praised for its effectiveness in treating oily and acne-prone skin. With key ingredients like salicylic acid, it helps control excess oil and breakouts while leaving the skin feeling clean and refreshed. Many guests appreciate its fragrance-free formula, making it suitable for sensitive skin. However, some users note that it can be drying, so pairing it with a good moisturizer is recommended for optimal results.
    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 1935 reviews
    effectiveness: 4.33 out of 5
    quality: 4.33 out of 5
    value: 4.34 out of 5
    75% would recommend
    238 recommendations

    Made my skin too dry

    4 out of 5 stars
    Dogmom21 - 5 days ago, Verified purchaser
    I think this product is effective, but it was a little too strong for my skin and it made my skin dry while it was breaking out. I also don’t like the face wash runs out of the bottle while opening and closing it. The packaging could be a little better.
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?

    In awe

    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    Emma - 10 days ago, Verified purchaser
    I’m genuinely in awe of this product. I’m in my mid-twenties and still struggling with acne, but after using this twice daily and letting it sit for one minute, my skin has improved dramatically. Recently, I had a large pimple on my cheekbone. I used the wash that night and again the next morning, and within 2–3 days, it was gone. I highly recommend this to anyone dealing with acne. Just note, it can be a bit drying, so follow up with a moisturizer!
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?

    Love it!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Meridith - 14 days ago
    originally posted on laroche-posay.us
    I’ve been using this product for years and absolutely LOVE it!! My skin is finally clear, soft, and healthy!!!
    Did you find this review helpful?

    Little Expensive but Recommended!

    4 out of 5 stars
    rayac46_2216 - 26 days ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    I love this cleanser and it helps my acne a lot. It is pretty liquid though, so I use more product than I normally would. It is also on the expensive side of cleanser, but I really like it. It also is unscented which is also good for my acne!
    Did you find this review helpful?

    Effective Without Drying

    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    Raleigh Rower - 1 month ago, Verified purchaser
    My perimenopausal skin needs a little help with clearing congestion. This cleanser is effective but has not dried my skin out with twice/day use. I pair this with the toner for a clean start/end to my day. Highly recommended for sensitive skin.
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    Saved My Skin

    5 out of 5 stars
    gabriellac200_2289 - 1 month ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    I had a super bad breakout after moving to a dorm for college. This SAVED my skin. I have minimal texture on my skin after 4 months of usage. This has lasted me for that 4 months and I still about 1/4 of the product left. Lathers up nicely and has very hydrating and soothing ingredients.
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    Gently removes acne

    5 out of 5 stars
    arzuy3_5304 - 1 month ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    This product done wonders to my acne prone skin. The packaging is sleek. The prodcuted was Unsented. Clean ingredients and affordable pricing.
    Did you find this review helpful?

    Sensitive acne prone skin

    1 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
    Jr - 2 months ago
    Made my acne so much worse and aggitated my eczema. Personally not for me.
    1 reply from La Roche-Posay Product Expert team - 2 months ago
    Hello Jr. Thank you for sharing your experience with La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Acne Prone Skin. We’re sorry to hear that this product did not work for your skin, and we would like to assist you further. Please give us a call at: 888-577-5226 M-F 9:00am-5:30pm EST. It would be helpful if you have the product available when you call us. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    Healed my stubborn acne

    5 out of 5 stars
    alanab124_576 - 2 months ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    I have had stubborn acne for years and it has been so frustrating. This face wash has been the only thing that has worked. Plus the ingredients are so clean so you know what you are putting on your face is good, I recommend!!
    Did you find this review helpful?

    Good Stuff

    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    DeeNice - 3 months ago, Verified purchaser
    My husband and I have been using this for a few months now. We can't live without it now. You can definetly see a difference on our skin. We use this brand for all our skin care now.
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?

    Acne cleanser

    5 out of 5 stars
    lilystar - 3 months ago
    originally posted on laroche-posay.us
    This cleanser was really helpful when I have been struggling with my acne. It doesn't dry or very much and you can see improvement in two weeks.
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?

    No Doubt

    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    Nillacakes - 3 months ago, Verified purchaser
    I purchased this product hoping for a miracle or at least results better than my tried trues which are failing lately. So far this does seem to be effective in clearing up mild breakouts. It's also surprisingly gentle, absorbs oil, and leaves my face soft and fresh. Without tight, dry feeling. TBH I had my doubts yet another expensive face wash was going work. Yet it does met my top shelf expectations. Happiness ☺️
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    soap that cured my acne

    5 out of 5 stars
    juliac262_8511 - 3 months ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    I've been using this wonder for two years now, it's completely cured my acne, it's a soap with great protein content, with a very pleasant aroma, it creates quite a lot of foam which gives the sensation that it cleanses the skin quite well, its texture is a bit thick so you only need a little bit of this soap, I give this product a 10/10
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    Worth the Purchase

    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    Mabel - 4 months ago, Verified purchaser
    I have combination skin and noticed that my t-zone was getting oily. The cleanser that I was using was barely doing its job. I randomly picked this cleanser, just focusing on the medicated part. I’m not acne prone but needed something that would do a deep cleanse. I’ve been using it for the last 4 days and already noticed a huge difference, especially the pores on my nose. The product is clear, light to the skin, and odorless.
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?

    great job at clearing face

    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    ry - 4 months ago, Verified purchaser
    i love this face wash! i’ve tried others and this one seems to work best for my acne
    Did you find this review helpful?

    A highly effective, fragrance-free cleanser for oi

    5 out of 5 stars
    - 4 months ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    I've been using this medicated gel face cleanser daily, and it has made a noticeable difference in my oily, acne-prone skin. With consistent use, it helps control excess oil and breakouts, leaving my skin feeling incredibly clean and refreshed. However, I’ve noticed that it can be a bit drying, so I always follow up with a toner or moisturizer to maintain balance. One of the best things about this cleanser is that it has no added fragrance, which is perfect for my sensitive skin. Fragrances often cause breakouts for me, so I really appreciate the clean, scent-free formula. The gel itself is quite runny which I don't seem to mind and after rinsing my skin it feels incredibly soft and cleansed without any residue left behind. Overall, this is a great option for those with oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. Just be sure to pair it with a good moisturizer to prevent dryness!
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 4 months ago
    Hello alyssaksmith_4972! We are very sorry to hear that our Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash was drying. We would like to speak to you directly about this. Please contact us at 800-560-1803 M-F 9:00 am – 7:00 pm ET for assistance and provide the reference #40140215. We look forward to speaking with you!
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    Work great

    5 out of 5 stars
    niobysl_8043 - 4 months ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    This product just amazing if you’re suffering from acne. 2 %salicylic acid Target the oil on your face helps to clear your skin highly recommended it.
    Did you find this review helpful?

    Wanted to like but

    3 out of 5 stars
    Wanted to like but - 5 months ago, Verified purchaser
    I heard a lot of good reviews about this cleanser so I was so excited to try it. The first week, I saw results immediately. My acne was better and I barely experienced breakouts. However, I noticed my eye area was dry, red, and itchy. It was so uncomfortable. Sucks really. The cleanser is great but I'll find another one that doesn't dry out my eye area.
    1 reply from La Roche-Posay Product Expert team - 4 months ago
    Hi there! We are so sorry to hear about your experience with our Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel Face Cleanser. We would like to speak with you directly about it. Please give us a call @1-800-560-1803 Mon-Fri, 9am-7pm EST and provide this reference 39805513. It would be helpful if you had the product available when you call. We look forward to speaking with you!
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    Improves acne

    5 out of 5 stars
    halleb98_5890 - 5 months ago
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image
    I have struggled with acne my whole life. This product has helped me a lot. There is no scent which helps with my sensitive skin. It lathers very well. A little goes a long way! I would reccomend this product to anyone and I will continue to use this!
    2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

    Must buy!! 💕💕

    5 out of 5 stars
    Michaela - 5 months ago
    originally posted on laroche-posay.us
    I have been using this face wash for four years now, and it has been a game changer for my acne-prone skin! However, it can make your face really dry, so I recommend following up with a good moisturizer. As someone who has struggled with acne my whole life, I have nothing bad to say about this product; it has significantly reduced my breakouts. I still experience some acne monthly due to my period, but it's nowhere near as bad as it used to be!
    6 guests found this review helpful. Did you?

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