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

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is a fragrance-free, oil‑free foaming acne wash formulated with 2% salicylic acid and LHA to help reduce excess surface oil and clear breakouts.

This dermatologist-developed gel cleanser combines salicylic acid medication with micro-exfoliating Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) and glycerin in a gentle, foaming base designed for oily, acne-prone skin. Clinically tested to reduce excess surface oil by up to 47%, the formula aims to unclog pores, refine skin texture, and help prevent new blemishes without physical scrubs or added fragrance. It is allergy-tested, non-comedogenic, and created to be tolerable on sensitive skin while delivering active acne-fighting ingredients.

How does this cleanser help control oil and reduce breakouts?

The 2% salicylic acid in this gel acts as a beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates oily pores to dissolve sebum and cellular debris. LHA (capryloyl salicylic acid) offers targeted, cell-by-cell exfoliation for a smoother surface without abrasive particles. Together they help clear existing blemishes and reduce the conditions that lead to new breakouts.

• 2% salicylic acid: oil-soluble exfoliant that clears pore buildup
• LHA: precision micro-exfoliation for smoother skin texture
• Clinically tested reduction in surface oil up to 47%
• Non-comedogenic and allergy-tested to minimize irritation risk

Will this gel be too harsh for sensitive or irritated skin?

The formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dermatologist tested, which reduces potential irritants compared with fragranced or physical-scrub cleansers. It contains glycerin to help retain moisture and is designed as a medicated wash rather than an aggressive scrub, but those with very reactive skin should patch test or consult a dermatologist before daily use.

• Fragrance- and paraben-free to lower irritation potential
• Glycerin included for hydration support
• Allergy tested and dermatologist-developed
• Recommended to use twice daily; avoid eyes and broken skin

How should I use this Effaclar cleanser in my routine?

Use morning and evening as a standard acne-cleansing step. Wet the face, apply a quarter‑sized amount with fingertips in gentle circular motions, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry; follow with your usual topical treatments and a non-comedogenic moisturizer and SPF in the daytime.

• Apply to wet skin, lather gently with fingertips
• Rinse completely and pat dry; avoid the eye area
• Follow with acne medication or moisturizer and sunscreen
• If dryness occurs, reduce frequency or add a hydrating moisturizer

What active and inactive ingredients should I know about?

The active medication is 2% salicylic acid. Key supporting ingredients include LHA for targeted exfoliation, glycerin for hydration, and a gentle foaming base with zinc gluconate to help manage oil. Menthol provides a mild cooling sensation but is present at a low level.

• Active: 2% salicylic acid (acne medication)
• Exfoliant: capryloyl salicylic acid (LHA)
• Humectant: glycerin for moisture retention
• Other: zinc gluconate and gentle surfactants; menthol offers cooling

Who is this for: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is intended for people with oily, acne-prone skin looking for a medicated daily wash to help clear blemishes and reduce surface oil. It suits those who prefer a dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free formula and who want an alternative to abrasive scrubs. If you have extremely dry, rosacea-prone, or severely compromised skin, consult a clinician before starting a daily salicylic-acid regimen.

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