La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser 2% Salicylic Acid — Oil-Free Foaming Acne Wash for Oily, Blemish-Prone Skin

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is a foaming, oil-free facial wash with 2% salicylic acid and LHA designed to help clear acne, reduce surface oil, and refine skin texture.

This dermatologist-developed gel cleanser targets oily, blemish-prone skin with a blend of beta and lipo-hydroxy acids plus glycerin to cleanse without heavy drying. Clinically tested to reduce excess surface oil, it removes pore-clogging debris, helps manage pimples and blackheads, and is formulated free of fragrances and parabens. The lightweight foam rinses clean and is suitable for daily use as part of an acne-care routine.

How does this cleanser help control excess oil and shine?

The combination of 2% salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid) and LHA (capryloyl salicylic acid) exfoliates at the skin surface and inside pores to reduce oil-trapping buildup. Glycerin preserves skin hydration so the formula won’t leave skin feeling stripped. Clinical testing shows a measurable reduction in surface oil after regular use.

• 2% salicylic acid penetrates pores to remove sebum and debris
• LHA provides gentle, cell-by-cell exfoliation for smoother texture
• Glycerin maintains moisture balance to prevent over-drying
• Oil-free, fragrance-free formula to minimize irritation risks

Will this product clear breakouts and blackheads?

This medicated cleanser is formulated to help clear active breakouts and reduce the factors that cause new blemishes, such as excess oil and clogged pores. While a wash alone won’t resolve every acne concern, regular twice-daily use helps keep pore openings cleaner and supports the effects of topical acne treatments.

• Targets pimples, blackheads and whiteheads by loosening trapped debris
• Compatible with standard topical acne medications when used as directed
• Clinically tested to help reduce visible oil that can contribute to breakouts

Is it safe for sensitive or reactive skin?

The formulation is allergy-tested, free of fragrance and parabens, and dermatologist tested, which makes it more suitable for sensitive, oily skin types than harsher scrubs. It includes a small amount of menthol for a cooling sensation; if you are highly reactive to menthol, patch testing is recommended. The gel’s foaming action relies on gentle surfactants rather than abrasive particles.

• Allergy-tested and non-comedogenic to reduce risk of pore blockage
• No fragrance or parabens to minimize irritation triggers
• Contains menthol for mild cooling—patch-test if sensitive

How should I use this cleanser for best results?

Use twice daily—morning and evening—as the first step in your skincare routine. Apply a pea-to-quarter-size amount to damp skin, gently massage in circular motions with fingertips, avoiding the eye area, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Follow with your usual serums or moisturizers; consistent use supports reductions in oiliness and clearer-looking skin over time.

• Wet face, apply a small amount, massage gently, then rinse
• Avoid contact with eyes; rinse immediately if contact occurs
• Follow with oil-free moisturizer or targeted acne products
• Use morning and night for ongoing oil control and clarity

Who is this for: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is best suited for people with oily or acne-prone skin who want a dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free foaming wash. It fits into acne-management routines for teens and adults seeking to reduce surface oil, address breakouts, and refine skin texture without abrasive particles. If you have extremely dry or menthol-sensitive skin, consider consulting a dermatologist before regular use.

Ingredients

WATER • SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE • DECYL GLUCOSIDE • GLYCERIN • SODIUM CHLORIDE • COCO-BETAINE • SODIUM HYDROXIDE • PEG-150 PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRASTEARATE • CITRIC ACID • HEXYLENE GLYCOL • PEG-6 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES • ZINC GLUCONATE • TETRASODIUM EDTA • POLYQUATERNIUM-47 • MENTHOL • CAPRYLOYL SALICYLIC ACID • SODIUM BENZOATE