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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

La Roche Posay Effaclar Acne Face Cleanser Medicated Gel: Pore Cleansing, Noncomedogenic, Unscented, 6.76 fl oz

$18.99 ($2.81/fluid ounce)

Size6.76 fl oz

In Stock

Eligible for registries and wish lists

At a glance

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: Dye-Free, Contains Salicylic Acid, Paraben-Free, Phthalate-Free, Hypoallergenic, Noncomedogenic, Fluoride-Free, Aluminum-Free, No Fragrance Added
Product Form: Gel
Beauty Purpose: Hydrating, Nourishing, Deep Cleaning, Skin Texture Improvement, Calming, Oil Control, Pore Cleansing, Damage Repair, Makeup Removal, Anti-Acne
Recommended Skin Type: Oily, Extra Sensitive, Normal, Very Dry, Acne-Prone, Combination, Sensitive
Net weight: 6.76 fl oz (US)
Features: Non-Drying, Safe to Use On Sensitive Skin, Non-Comedogenic, Dermatologist Tested, Dermatologist Recommended
TCIN: 16452472
UPC: 883140040231
Item Number (DPCI): 037-14-0377
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

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, peg-150 pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, hexylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, peg-6 caprylic/capric glycerides, zinc gluconate, tetrasodium edta polyquaternium-47, menthol, capryloyl salicylic acid, citric acid

Shipping details

Estimated ship dimensions: 7.04 inches length x 2.4 inches width x 1.73 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.53 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 you use this on your back?

submitted by Tucsongal - 2 years 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 - 1 year 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 - 2 years 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 - 2 years 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 - 2 years ago
    Brand expert

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

submitted by Nancy - 3 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 - 3 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 - 3 years ago
    Brand expert

Q: can i use this on oily acne skin?

submitted by me - 6 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 - 6 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 - 6 years ago
    Brand expert

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

submitted by Mee - 6 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 - 6 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 - 6 years ago
    Brand expert

Q: can we use this for normal skin?

submitted by Emily - 6 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 - 6 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 - 6 years ago
    Brand expert

Q: Does the cleanser have any added fragrances?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
  • A: No, the cleanser is fragrance-free, oil-free, and paraben-free.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
    Ai generated

Q: What skin concerns does this product address?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
  • A: This cleanser targets excess oil, breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
    Ai generated

Q: How often should this cleanser be used?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
  • A: It is recommended to cleanse twice daily, in the morning and evening.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
    Ai generated

Q: Is this cleanser suitable for sensitive skin types?

submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
  • A: Yes, it is dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin.

    submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 4 months ago
    Ai generated

Additional product information and recommendations

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Guests also viewed

Guests are saying

The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is a popular choice among guests for its effectiveness in managing acne and oily skin. Many appreciate its lightweight gel texture, which lathers well and rinses off easily without leaving residue. The product contains 2% salicylic acid, known for its acne-fighting properties, and is fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin. However, some guests have reported dryness and irritation, particularly around the eyes, so pairing it with a good moisturizer is recommended for best 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 2088 reviews
    effectiveness: 4.34 out of 5
    quality: 4.34 out of 5
    value: 4.25 out of 5
    73% would recommend
    257 recommendations
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    12 June, 2026Verified purchase

    Excellent Product!!

    Improved skin texture and control oil
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    quality: 5 out of 5
    value: 5 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    3 out of 5 stars
    18 May, 2026
    originally posted on laroche-posay.us

    Good product, BAD packaging

    I've been buying this for my teenage son for years. He likes it, so I keep buying it. But the packaging is horrible. I've had a couple that leaks almost half of it. When it happened the 1st time, I thought I bought a bad one. But when it happens again, and after I read some of the reviews here, I realize it's a packaging flaw. It is a shame, especially since it's not cheap, and half of it end up on the floor. Please consider changing the packaging to something leak proof.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 26 days ago
    Hi Txmom, We apologize for the frustration caused by the leaking packaging. At La Roche-Posay, we hold our packaging to the same high standards as our formulas. Your experience, along with the other reviews you mentioned, has been shared with our product team to prioritize a solution for more leak-proof packaging. We would like to speak with you directly about this. Please give us a call at: 1-800-560-1803 Monday - Friday 9am-7pm EST and give case #46595873. It would be helpful if you could have the product available when you call.
    Txmom
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    18 May, 2026

    (no review title)

    A good product I must say
    Dada
    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
    17 May, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Very gentle but effective

    I love this brand and all her products. After washing my face with this cleanser my skin feels smoother and softer. It sure does help with oily skin and acne
    GabiG
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    6 May, 2026
    originally posted on laroche-posay.us

    Not hypoallergenic: causes red rash on eyelids

    This product needs a -0 rating! Caused red rash, possibly eczema, daughter’s on eyelids and under eyes. This is not gentle, hypoallergenic or for someone who has sensitive skin. Highly do not recommend. Not worth the cost of this product plus two dermatologist appointments resulting from using this product. And to not go to school because of the appearance of her eyes. Thank La Roche-Posay for this horrible costly experience.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 1 month ago
    Hello! We are sorry to hear about the experience your daughter had with Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser. We would like to speak with you directly about it. Please give us a call @1-800-560-1803 M-F 9am-7pm, ET for assistance and provide the case #46448018. Looking forward to speaking with you. It would be helpful if you could have the product available when you call.
    Dako
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    5 May, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Leaves my skin clean, fresh, and noticeably cleare

    I’ve been using the Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser for a while and I’m really impressed with the results. It contains 2% salicylic acid, which helps target breakouts and control excess oil without making my skin feel too tight or dry. The texture is a lightweight gel that lathers nicely, and it rinses off easily without leaving any residue. I also appreciate that it’s fragrance-free, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin. After a few uses, I noticed my skin looked clearer, smoother, and less oily throughout the day. It gives a fresh, clean feeling without irritation. Definitely a great option if you struggle with acne-prone or oily skin.
    CarlaG
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
    5 May, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Very expensive for a tiny thing. 18 bucks for this small item !!!!
    1 reply from La Roche-Posay Product Expert team - 1 month ago
    Hello Someone. 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 - Travel Size - 1.69 fl oz. We're sorry to hear that you are disappointed with the price point for this product. There are many factors involved in bringing you high-performance skincare. These include the formula itself, product type, concentration and quality of ingredients, and materials used, as well as ongoing investments in research and innovation. Price updates reflect the overall operational cost. La Roche Posay has minimized its price increases to some of our products so that we may continue providing you with exceptional value. Thank you again for your feedback, we will be sure to pass your comments along.
    Someone
    value: 1 out of 5
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    29 April, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    If you struggle with acne, this product will worsen your acne because it has pore-clogging ingredients (sodium laureth sulfate). Don’t even think of trying their clarifying toner either as it has hydrogenated castor oil.
    1 reply from La Roche-Posay Product Expert team - 1 month ago
    Hello JEem. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on 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 does not meet your skincare needs. We appreciate your feedback as it helps us to better understand how we can improve. We will be sure to pass your comments along. Thank you for trying La Roche Posay!
    JEem
    3 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
    1 out of 5 stars
    26 April, 2026
    originally posted on laroche-posay.us

    Do not recommend. Bumps all over my forehead

    Used for maybe one week and I instantly got worse skin, more acne, and tiny bumps all over my forehead and chin. Was only using on morning and night. Made my skin way worse and painful acne.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 2 months ago
    Hello Billy. Thank you for sharing your experience with Efffaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash. We're sorry to hear this did not work with your skin. We would like to assist you further. Please give us a call at: 888-577-5226 M-F 9:00am-5:00pm EST and give the reference number: 46284690. It would be helpful if you have the product available when you call. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
    Billy
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
    20 April, 2026

    (no review title)

    The Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser with Salicylic Acid has really helped make my hormonal acne more manageable, and while my skin isn’t perfect, it’s definitely overall better. I cleanse nightly on my face, neck, and décolleté and have noticed calmer cystic acne and fewer comedonal acne on my chin and jawline. It also helps control excess oil on my upper chest while leaving my skin clean and never dry or tight.
    Natalia
    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
    20 April, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Product for acne problems

    I truly love this product, it helped me with my acne. It doesn’t irritate the skin and leaves it feeling soft. It has no scent I honestly recommend it. 🌸
    KarenM
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    14 April, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Good exfoliation without drying out my combo oily skin.
    Ghost
    effectiveness: 5 out of 5
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    1 out of 5 stars
    12 April, 2026
    originally posted on laroche-posay.us

    WARNING - this is NOT fragrance free

    I really detest when companies flat out tell lies. It says right on the front of the bottle that this is fragrance free however it contains MENTHOL which is a fragrance and is skin sensitizing! I will not be repurchasing. False advertising.
    1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 2 months ago
    Hello! We are very sorry to hear about your experience and understand your frustration. At La Roche-Posay, we prioritize dermatological efficacy and safety. The 'fragrance-free' in our Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser signifies that the product contains no added synthetic or natural perfumes. Menthol is utilized in this specific formula as an active sensory ingredient to provide a cooling sensation during the cleansing process. We are sorry to hear this product did not meet your expectations and appreciate you bringing your concerns to our attention. We will be sharing your comments with our Manufacturing Teams.
    Cordelia
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    9 April, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Works well on my oily skin without drying it out
    Katie b
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    4 out of 5 stars
    8 April, 2026

    Great for Breakouts

    Normally I don’t write reviews but this is great! The only thing that I found, and maybe this is just me, but it doesn’t help me prevent breakouts but it helps clear them. I used it when I was already having issues and it is slowly clearing it up but it’s slow to work for me as well. I would recommend it if you are currently having issues. I’m not sure how it works for daily or preventative use.
    Indyblazer
    Did you find this review helpful?
    1 out of 5 stars
    Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
    30 March, 2026

    Face cleaner

    It was opened. I mean come on TARGET.
    1 reply from La Roche-Posay Product Expert team - 2 months ago
    Hi Mayra. You have reached the La Roche Posay Company. We're sorry to hear your product was already opened upon delivery. Since you placed your order with Target we suggest you reach out to them regarding your issue.
    Mayra
    effectiveness: 1 out of 5
    quality: 1 out of 5
    value: 1 out of 5
    1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
    5 out of 5 stars
    27 March, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    Clearer Skin, No Dryness!

    This gel cleanser is a game changer for acne prone skin. It deeply cleans without drying, leaving face fresh, smooth, and balanced. Breakouts are noticeably reduced, and skin looks clearer with consistent use.
    StyledA
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    24 March, 2026
    originally posted on influenster.com
    Image

    A good acné cleanser

    I’ve been using La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash, and I’ve really liked it. It cleanses deeply without leaving the skin overly dry. I’ve noticed that it helps control acne and reduces excess oil. The texture is lightweight and lathers well. I especially recommend it for oily or breakout-prone skin, although it is important to use a moisturizer afterward to prevent dryness.
    IdaniaG
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    10 March, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Holy Grail!!
    Jeana
    Did you find this review helpful?
    5 out of 5 stars
    4 March, 2026Verified purchase

    (no review title)

    Works good
    Lacey
    Did you find this review helpful?

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