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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
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%).

Purpose

Acne Treatment..

Directions

Use twice daily. Shake well, wet face, then work product into a lather. Massage onto face avoiding the eyes. Rinse well.

Other information

Store at 20 - 25 degrees C (68 - 77 degrees F). Protect from excessive moisture.

Inactive ingredients

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

Question or comments?

888-768-2915

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: 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
  • 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

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

submitted by KA - 8 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 - 8 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Will this stain or bleach my towels?

submitted by Sarah - 9 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 - 9 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: May I ask if this facial cleanser can remove sunscreen?

submitted by Irina - 10 months ago
  • A: Hello Irina. Thank you for your interest in CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin. This refreshing, gel-to-foam salicylic acid cleanser effectively removes dirt and excess oil, make up and sunscreen and gently exfoliates and penetrates clogged pores to help prevent new acne breakouts. Acne Control Cleanser also maintains the skin’s protective barrier with 3 essential ceramides, calms the skin with niacinamide and reduces acne while leaving the skin soft, smooth and hydrated. We hope you will give it a try soon!

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 10 months ago
    Brand expert

Q: Is this good to use for sensitive skin

submitted by Mike - 1 year ago
  • A: Hello Mike Thank you for your interest in CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin. This product is tested for all skin types including sensitive skin. This gentle, non-comedogenic, and free of fragrances and parabens, in a consumer trial, almost all users agreed it relieved skin discomfort after 2 weeks of using it twice a day, and 100% agreed this clay face wash felt soothing on their skin after 6 weeks. We hope this information has been helpful and that you can use this product with great success!

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 1 year ago
    Brand expert

Q: Is this pregnancy safe? Im on my 3 month and just concerned about if it is safe to use during pregnancy

submitted by Kb - 1 year ago
  • A: Hello Kb. Thank you for your interest in CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily Skin. 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. CeraVe 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. We hope this information has been helpful and we appreciate you taking the time to reach out!

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 1 year ago
    Brand expert

Q: Can you provide list of ingredients

submitted by Jr - 1 year ago
  • A: Hey Jr, Great question! Here's the list: Active ingredients: salicylic acid 2.0% and Inactive Ingredients: water, cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, glycerin, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, niacinamide, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, peg-150 pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, gluconolactone, sodium cocoyl isethionate, ceramide np, ceramide ap, ceramide eop, carbomer, calcium gluconate, triethyl citrate, sodium hydroxide, sodium benzoate, sodium chloride, sodium lauroyl lactylate, cholesterol, coconut acid, tetrasodium edta, caprylyl glycol, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate, hectorite, phytosphingosine, xanthan gum, acrylates copolymer, benzoic acid. 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: Can it remove makeup?

submitted by TheShopper - 1 year ago
  • A: Hi TheShopper! Yes, our Acne Control Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid helps to remove dirt, makeup and debris from your skin. Ideal for daily use to gently exfoliate the dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to acne.

    submitted byCerave Product Expert - 1 year ago
    Brand expert

Additional product information and recommendations

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Guests also viewed

Guests are saying

The Cerave Acne Control Cleanser is highly praised for its effectiveness in managing acne and oily skin. Guests appreciate its gentle formula that cleanses without over-drying, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Many have noted improvements in their skin's clarity and texture after consistent use. The product is also recognized for its affordability and practical packaging, making it a staple in daily skincare routines for both teens and adults.
    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 2928 reviews
    effectiveness: 3.61 out of 5
    quality: 3.78 out of 5
    value: 3.65 out of 5
    63% would recommend
    172 recommendations
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    4 July, 2026

    Oily Skin.

    I love this product, my dermatologist recommended this am and pm cleanser along with the laroche posay gel moisturizer with spf in it and it changed my skin.
    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
    3 July, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Effectively Eliminates Acne Breakouts

    After doing tons of research for an effective non-drying cleanser for my acne, this came recommended to me and IT WORKS. This 2% salicylic acid acne cleanser has reduced my blackheads, improved my skin texture and minimized my pores. After seeing what it has done for me, my 22-year-old daughter started using it too and it has improved her skin as well. It has three essential ceramides, hectorite clay, and niacinamide. Seldom do you find such an effective acne treatment at an affordable price point!
    CatherineH
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    30 June, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Now I have less acne because of this
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
    19 June, 2026

    Not Recommended

    Never buy this product. It caused sever redness and an allergic reaction on my face. I'm very disappointed and wish l had never purchased it.
    1 reply from Cerave Product Expert team - 23 days ago
    Hello Eda. Thank you for sharing your experience with CeraVe Acne Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid and Purifying Clay for Oily 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: 888-768-2915 M-F 9:00am-5:30pm EST. It would be helpful if you have the product available when you call. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    19 June, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Love how it makes my skin feel clean and helps clear my breakout
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    18 June, 2026Verified purchase

    Love 

    Favorite face wash
    Juliat
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    10 June, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    very hydrating

    this product leaves my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. it helps with my acne a bit and it doesn’t give me any breakouts at all. overall this is a good cleanser for people who have acne
    SabaA
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    1 June, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    A gentle yet effective acne cleanser that helps reduce breakouts while keeping skin clean and balanced.

    I've been using the CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser consistently as directed, and it has made a noticeable difference in my skincare routine. The formula cleanses deeply without leaving my skin feeling dry or tight. After a few weeks of use, I noticed fewer breakouts, less excess oil, and smoother-looking skin. I also appreciate that it contains salicylic acid to help unclog pores while ceramides help maintain the skin barrier. The cleanser is gentle enough for daily use and leaves my face feeling clean, refreshed, and balanced. Overall, it's an effective option for acne-prone skin and has become a staple in my routine. After following the instructions and using the CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser regularly, I noticed positive changes in my skin. My breakouts became less frequent, my pores appeared cleaner, and excess oil was reduced. My skin felt smoother and looked healthier over time. The cleanser effectively removes dirt and impurities without causing irritation or excessive dryness.
    CarlaG
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    26 May, 2026
    originally posted on cerave.com
    Image

    Cerave experience

    It didn’t help and I notice little pimples on my face just two or three days of using it.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 2 months ago
    Hello Rica! 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 #46693767. We look forward to speaking with you!
    Rica
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    25 May, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    #1 Go To for Simple Guys

    My #1 used face wash; I’m a simple guy with complicated skin but this face wash has been a game changer! Now I can keep this in my shower as part of my regular routine! I’ve noticed far less blackheads as well as hardly any new breakouts. I typically follow up with CeraVe’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion!
    LukasB
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    25 May, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Love

    He recommended this soap, it leaves my skin soft, it doesn’t irritate my skin, the application is easy, the texture of my skin I love it after using it, zero irritation, I love it
    MercedesR
    Did you find this review helpful?
    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
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    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 - 3 months 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?

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