CeraVe Clay-to-Foam Acne Face Wash 4 oz — 2% Salicylic Acid with Kaolin Clay, Hydrating & Fragrance-Free

CeraVe Clay-to-Foam Acne Face Wash is a 3-in-1 salicylic acid cleanser that transforms from a clay mask to a gentle foam to clear pimples, absorb oil, and help prevent new breakouts.

This multi-use formula combines 2% salicylic acid with kaolin clay, three essential ceramides, and glycerin to offer cleansing, targeted spot treatment, and a weekly mask — all in a single 4 oz tube. Designed with dermatologists and formulated to be non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, the cleanser aims to manage acne-prone skin while supporting the skin’s natural barrier and delivering hydration that lasts through the day.

How does this product clear acne and blackheads?

The key active is 2% salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate inside the pore and loosen debris that causes blackheads and pimples. CeraVe’s advanced deposition technology is formulated to leave effective levels of salicylic acid on the skin even after rinsing, improving visible acne within days when used as directed.

• 2% salicylic acid helps exfoliate pores and reduce clogged oil.
• Kaolin clay draws excess oil and surface impurities.
• Deposition technology sustains active levels on skin post-rinse.
• Non-comedogenic formula minimizes pore blockage risk.

What makes it a 3-in-1 product — how should I use each mode?

This cleanser adapts to three routines: everyday facial wash, a twice-weekly clay mask, and an as-needed spot treatment. Each method uses the same formula but a different application to address cleansing, deeper oil control, or focused blemish care.

• Daily wash: massage onto damp skin, emulsify, then rinse for everyday cleansing.
• Weekly mask: apply an even layer to damp skin for about 10 minutes, then rinse to absorb oil.
• Spot treatment: dab a small amount on blemishes and leave on overnight as needed.

Will this dry out or irritate sensitive, acne-prone skin?

Although it contains an active exfoliant, the formula includes three essential ceramides and glycerin to help preserve the skin’s natural barrier and provide up to 24 hours of hydration. It’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic to reduce irritation for many acne-prone skin types, but patch testing is recommended if you have sensitive skin.

• Ceramides 1, 3, 6-II support barrier repair and moisture retention.
• Glycerin delivers humectant hydration for comfort after cleansing.
• Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic to limit added irritation.
• Start gradually if you’re new to salicylic acid to assess tolerance.

How quickly can I expect to see results and what should I combine it with?

Clinical use indicates visible improvement in pimples within a few days when used twice daily as a cleanser; sustained benefits may require continued use and combining with a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen. For routine care, pair with a non-comedogenic hydrating moisturizer and morning SPF to protect treated skin.

• Visible reduction in pimples reported within days with twice-daily use.
• Use a ceramide-rich moisturizer for ongoing barrier support.
• Apply daily broad-spectrum sunscreen when using exfoliants regularly.
• Avoid mixing with other strong actives without consulting a skincare professional.

Who is this for? This CeraVe Clay-to-Foam Acne Face Wash is intended for people with oily or acne-prone skin who want a versatile, dermatologist-developed product that cleanses, treats breakouts, and controls oil without leaving skin overly dry. It’s suitable for those seeking a single product to simplify an acne routine — from daily cleansing to occasional mask use and targeted spot treatment — while maintaining hydration and supporting the skin barrier.

Ingredients

WATER • GLYCERIN • KAOLIN • SODIUM COCOYL ISETHIONATE • GLYCERYL STEARATE SE • CETYL ALCOHOL • NIACINAMIDE • GLYCOLIPIDS • CARRAGEENAN • BETA-GLUCAN • CERAMIDE NP • CERAMIDE AP • CERAMIDE EOP • CARBOMER • TRIETHYL CITRATE • SODIUM HYDROXIDE • SODIUM BENZOATE • SODIUM LAUROYL LACTYLATE • CHOLESTEROL • CAPRYLYL GLYCOL • TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE • LACTIC ACID • CHITOSAN • PHYTOSPHINGOSINE • XANTHAN GUM • BENZOIC ACID