CeraVe Salicylic Acid Cleanser for Face & Body 16 oz — Gentle BHA Exfoliating Gel with Hyaluronic Acid & Ceramides

This dermatologist-developed cleanser combines salicylic acid with hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients to remove dead skin cells, oil, and surface impurities without stripping. The fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula turns from a gel into a soft foam to cleanse both face and body, making it a convenient option for those who want daily exfoliation alongside skin barrier care.

How does this cleanser exfoliate without harsh scrubbing?

The product uses 0.5–2% salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells and unclog pores, rather than relying on abrasive beads or physical scrubs. That chemical exfoliation helps smooth texture and reduce rough patches while minimizing microtears associated with rough scrubbing.

• Uses BHA to penetrate and loosen dead cells and sebum
• No physical beads—gentler on sensitive and acne-prone skin
• Formulated to convert to a mild foam for easy rinsing

Will it dry out or irritate my skin?

Although salicylic acid is an active exfoliant, CeraVe balances it with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide to support hydration and calmness. This combination helps cleanse and exfoliate while protecting and replenishing the skin’s natural barrier, reducing the chance of tightness or irritation when used as directed.

• Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains surface moisture
• Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) help rebuild the lipid barrier
• Niacinamide soothes and helps maintain even-looking skin

Can I use it on acne-prone or body areas like chest and back?

Yes—this foaming gel is non-comedogenic and formulated for both face and body use, so it can be applied to acne-prone zones such as the forehead, nose, chin, and body areas like shoulders and back. Its salicylic acid content helps exfoliate pores, while the supportive moisturizers limit over-drying commonly associated with acne washes.

• Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free for fewer irritants
• Suitable for face and body to treat rough or bumpy skin
• Gentle enough for routine, daily use when tolerated

How should I include this cleanser in my routine?

Use it as your primary cleansing step, recommended once daily or as advised by a dermatologist; if you’re new to chemical exfoliants, start every other day. Apply to wet skin, lather, rinse thoroughly, and follow with moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning to protect freshly exfoliated skin.

• Apply to damp skin, lather, then rinse well
• Begin with less frequent use if you have sensitive skin
• Always follow with SPF during daytime routines

Who is this for: This cleanser is aimed at people seeking gentle chemical exfoliation without physical scrubbing—those with oily, combination, acne-prone, rough, or bumpy skin who also want to support their skin barrier. It’s formulated to be fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, suitable for both men and women, and convenient for anyone who prefers a single cleanser that works on face and body.

Key ingredients: salicylic acid for exfoliation; hyaluronic acid for hydration; niacinamide to calm; vitamin D antioxidant support; and three essential ceramides to reinforce the skin barrier.

Ingredients

AQUA/WATER/EAU, COCAMIDOPROPYL HYDROXYSULTAINE, GLYCERIN, SODIUM LAUROYL SARCOSINATE, NIACINAMIDE, GLUCONOLACTONE, PEG-150 PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRASTEARATE, SODIUM METHYL COCOYL TAURATE, ZEA MAYS OIL/CORN OIL, CERAMIDE NP, CERAMIDE AP, CERAMIDE EOP, CARBOMER, CALCIUM GLUCONATE, SODIUM CHLORIDE, SALICYLIC ACID, SODIUM BENZOATE, SODIUM LAUROYL LACTYLATE, CHOLECALCIFEROL, CHOLESTEROL, PHENOXYETHANOL, DISODIUM EDTA, TETRASODIUM EDTA, HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID, PHYTOSPHINGOSINE, XANTHAN GUM, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN