Blog

Jun 14, 2024

15 Best Cleansers with Salicylic Acid To Introduce To Your Routine

By Rebecca Fearn Cleansers with salicylic acid can have transformative effects on your complexion. Sure, when it comes to acids, it can be easy to overcomplicate your skincare routine – but instead of

By Rebecca Fearn

Cleansers with salicylic acid can have transformative effects on your complexion. Sure, when it comes to acids, it can be easy to overcomplicate your skincare routine – but instead of having to add yet another serum or step to your morning and nightly regimen, you can always simply invest in a face cleanser or makeup remover that features salicylic acid, and you're ready to go.

Known for its exfoliating properties (more on that later), beta hydroxy acid (BHA) salicylic acid is a gold star ingredient for acne-prone skin, oily skin or combination skin. It has a number of incredible benefits, and is often touted by dermatologists and skincare doctors as a brilliant acid to incorporate into your routine. If you want clear skin, keep reading.

Perhaps the number one thing to remember when using salicylic acid (or any acids or retinol) however, is that they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, meaning you should always wear an SPF daily (after any face toners, serums and moisturisers), come rain or shine, whether you’re inside or out.

As well as the best cleansers with salicylic acid, we’ve spoken to skincare specialists to get the full scoop on the ingredient, to fully de-mystify and simplify this beloved BHA. Keep reading to find out the answers to all the questions you have.

Let’s start with the basics. “Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy (BHA) exfoliating acid often found in products targeting acne thanks to its unique blend of anti-bacterial, decongestive and anti-inflammatory properties,” explains Jennifer Rock, CEO and founder of Skingredients and The Skin Nerd. “As a BHA, it has the ability to penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that combine to form breakouts.”

As well as being great for spot treatments and acne cleansers, Dr Alexis Granite, CeraVe consultant dermatologist, points out that it ‘reduces the skin's oil production,’ making it a solid choice for oily or combination skin types. Interestingly, the ingredient “can be made synthetically, but originally was derived from willow bark and is actually a precursor to aspirin,” adds Dr Cristina Psomadakis, dermatologist and Klira ambassador.

Essentially, as touched on above, if you experience excess oil, blackheads, whiteheads or congestion, salicylic acid could be worth trying. The experts point out that salicylic can also be used on the body, for those who experience issues such as keratosis pilaris or ingrown hairs. For these reasons, it’s pretty versatile and can be used by many.

This can depend on your skin type and how it reacts. As with most active ingredients, it’s recommended you introduce salicylic acid slowly, and perhaps even patch test before applying it to your face.

Jennifer says that generally, salicylic acid is most effective in small doses and used 2-3 times per week, while Dr Cristina argues that a product with salicylic acid is usually used once per day, but it really depends on how your skin responds. She does however add that if it is making your skin too dry, you can reduce to a couple of times per week.

Dr Kemi Fabusiwa, doctor and skincare expert, explains you can use the cleanser at night or in the morning for different benefits. “Using it in the morning can help to remove excess oil and impurities accumulated overnight, while using it before bed can help to cleanse the skin and remove makeup, dirt, and pollutants from the day.”

So, why should you use a cleanser with salicylic acid over something else like a serum? As Dr Alexis points out, the ingredient “should be used as preventative as well as targeted,” meaning a regular cleanse with salicylic can be just the ticket.

“Salicylic acid is best used in a wash-off product such as a cleanser as time spent in contact with skin is shorter and easily controlled by the user, reducing the risk of irritation,” adds Jennifer.

The main one? Dryness. “Salicylic acid can be drying, so if you have naturally drier or more mature skin, this is not the best acid ingredient for you. If your skin is very sensitive or inflamed, salicylic acid can aggravate the situation, so it should be avoided in people with eczema or rosacea,” says Dr Cristina.

If you find your skin drying out or you are more on the sensitive side and still want to give the ingredient a try, Dr Kemi recommends opting for formulas that have been prepared with 0.5-1% salicylic acid (less sensitive skin or dry skin can usually tolerate closer to 2%) to maintain a healthy skin barrier.

CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser with Salicylic Acid

Why we love it: CeraVe’s face wash has everything you’d want in a salicylic acid cleanser – and more. First, the formula contains a hefty dose of the exfoliating ingredient – yet, it also features hyaluronic acid and CeraVe’s iconic ceramides to balance these exfoliating effects to keep skin feeling hydrated and protected. It’s also perfect for busy mornings due to its handy pump, and the purse-friendly price and widespread availability solidify this as our top choice. Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these LookFantastic discount codes.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Face and Body Cleansing Gel

Why we love it: It’s not just the skin on the face that can benefit from a good salicylic cleanse; our bodies also love the stuff, too. For anybody who experiences body acne on areas such as the bum, back or chest, La Roche Posay’s Effaclar Micro-Peeling Face And Body Cleansing Gel is a worthy buy. Originating from the brand’s beloved, bestselling Effaclar range, this uses salicylic acid, zinc and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring water to unclog pores effectively.Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these Sephora discount codes.

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser

Why we love it: For The Inkey List, a viral hit is part and parcel of daily life; it seems the brand can’t put out a product without it getting major attention on platforms such as TikTok. A social media favourite is the brand’s Salicylic Acid Cleanser, which after CeraVe’s, is a close second top pick for us. As well as clearing pores and congestion, this helps to promote smoother skin and a healthier complexion all round. Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these LookFantastic discount codes.

e.l.f. Skin Blemish Breakthrough Acne Clarifying Cleanser

Why we love it: The main issue often associated with cleansers for blemish-prone skin is how harsh, drying and stripping they can be; not this one, which is gentle enough for daily use but still super results-driven. The trio of salicylic acid, zinc and tranexamic acid make quick work of unwanted blemishes, working also to prevent future breakouts, while also helping to calm skin post-acne. The definition of a triple threat.

By Laura Hampson

By Elle Turner

By Emma Howarth

COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser

Why we love it: If you’re as big a fan of Korean beauty products as we are, you’ll no doubt know all about COSRX. Recognised for its snail mucin products, the brand also has a fantastic salicylic acid cleanser that is as ultra-gentle as it is effective for oily or acne-prone skin. The handy tube is also easy to throw into your gym bag for a post-workout cleanse to remove any excess sweat. Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these Sephora discount codes.

Nip + Fab Salicylic Fix Gel Face Cleanser

Why we love it: You may know Nip + Fab best for its stellar celebrity endorsement (Kylie Jenner is a huge fan), as well as its exfoliating pads, which are the brand’s ultimate bestseller. However, it also has some other brilliant offerings, including this face wash, which utilises the power of salicylic acid, but still manages to maintain hydrating benefits and feel ultra-refreshing on skin. One to pick up in the warmer months for sure.

Neutrogena Clear & Defend 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash

Why we love it: Neutrogena face washes are the OG in acne-prone skincare, but over the years the brand has refined its cleansers to provide more sophisticated formulas that are even more effective and results-driven. Its ‘clear & defend’ approach means it works for existing spots as well as future ones, and the tea tree scent is such a throwback! Plus, at under £5, you really can’t lose by picking up a bottle of this.

Super Facialist Anti Blemish Purifying Cleansing Wash

Why we love it: Another reliable high street brand, Super Facialist has a brilliant exfoliating cleanser in its midst, and this one is particularly good if blackheads are your main concern. The purifying wash works to deeply penetrate skin to unclog pores and thus, stop blackheads in their tracks. It’s also effective against inflammation and redness, as well as other spots including whiteheads.

By Laura Hampson

By Elle Turner

By Emma Howarth

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel

Why we love it: For skin that prefers a lightweight gel cleanser (oily skin types, we are talking to you), this is perfect. As well as exfoliating salicylic acid, it also features niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) as its other hero ingredient, which is well known to help with oily skin, as well as boosting hydration and improving skin texture.

Pixi Clarity Cleanser

Why we love it: The best thing about Pixi’s offering is it does lots of things well, all at once, making it a hardworking formula especially suited to mature skin types. For those who need that extra hit of exfoliation, this formula boasts the acid trifecta: salicylic acid (while willow bark extract), lactic acid and glycolic acid. But in addition, there’s also moisturising aloe and added probiotics to maintain balance and promote healthier skin on the whole. Suitable for all age groups, this is a solid choice. Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these Cult Beauty discount codes.

Revolution Skincare 2% Salicylic Acid and Zinc BHA Anti Blemish Cleanser

Why we love it: Younger skin can have the tendency to be a little more blemish-prone, meaning a salicylic acid facial cleanser with a potent yet never-overpowering INCI list is ideal. The gentle chemical exfoliating formula decongests skin, so is perfect for any existing pimples and future ones, and it also has brightening properties to promote a noticeable radiance that’ll have friends asking just what you’re using in your routine. Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these LookFantastic discount codes.

AcidEnzyme™ Exfoliating Face & Body Cleanser

Why we love it: The newest of the bunch, Beauty Pie’s recent launch took its community by storm – and we’re also big fans. As well as 2% Salicylic Acid, this formula is also designed with 3% C-X-Papaya Enzyme Complex for peak exfoliation. It’s best suited to those with acne and blemish-prone skin, oily skin, congested skin and keratosis pilaris. And to help justify the heftier price tag? You can also use this on the body, too.

Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these Beauty Pie discount codes.

By Laura Hampson

By Elle Turner

By Emma Howarth

By BEAUTY BAY 1% Salicylic Acid + Zinc PCA Cleansing Gel

Why we love it: This gel-to-foam cleanser is a great regular addition to any skincare routine, and is best used as a refreshing morning wake up (followed, of course, by sunscreen as your final step). As well as providing great results, it’s both proudly vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about your purchase, also. Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these Beauty Bay discount codes.

Boots Ingredients Salicylic Acid Cleanser

Why we love it: When Boots first launched its ingredients-first skincare line in 2022, we knew it’d be good. With affordable prices and to-the-point formulas that are totally faff-free, this collection helps bring hero ingredients to the masses. This cleanser does what it says on the tin, ideal for anybody with excess oil or blemishes. It’s also non-drying, so those with combination skin need not worry. Save big when you shop for the best cleansers with salicylic acid with these Boots discount codes.

Skingredients Sally Cleanse 2% Salicylic Acid Oil Control Cleanser

Why we love it: Skingredients is a brand that often flies under the radar, but it’s packed full of incredible formulations using the best of the best trending ingredients in skincare. Case in point: this Sally Cleanse, which is primarily designed for oil control. It utilises salicylic acid to dissolve the sebum (oil) at the heart of spot production, and also leaves the entire complexion with a matte finish, making it a really great base for makeup application afterwards.

By Denise Primbet

By Emma-Jade Stoddart

By Bianca London

By Deanna Pai