Unclog congested pores and clear active breakouts with the targeted exfoliating action of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub. Specially formulated for acne-prone, oily, and breakout-susceptible skin, this foaming acne scrub combines beta-hydroxy acid exfoliation with gentle surface buffing. By pairing maximum-strength 2% Salicylic Acid with Neutrogena's proprietary Micro-Clear Technology, it glides across facial contours effortlessly.

This dermatologist-tested cleanser works dynamically to dissolve lipophilic pore plugs, slough off dead corneocytes, and calm acne-related inflammation. Infused with a vibrant pink grapefruit extract aroma, the foaming gel vehicle breaks down surface oil and impurities, leaving skin feeling deeply purified, smooth, and visibly clearer over continuous use.

How It Works & Key Benefits

This product targets active acne papules, blackheads, and pore congestion caused by trapped sebum and keratinized skin cells. By combining lipid-soluble Salicylic Acid (BHA) with surface-exfoliating microbeads and a surfactant delivery matrix, it penetrates deep into hair follicles where acne forms. This dual-exfoliation system breaks down intercellular desmosomes, flushes out trapped oil plugs, and smooths rough skin texture without clogging pores.

Core Active Ingredients & What They Do

• 2% Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid): Oil-soluble keratolytic active that penetrates deep into sebum-rich pores to dissolve cellular debris and clear acne lesions.

• Micro-Clear Technology: Specialized lipophilic delivery complex that enhances the penetration speed and depth of salicylic acid through lipid barriers.

• Gentle Microbeads (Microcrystalline Wax / Cellulose Exfoliants): Fine physical scrubbing particles that mechanically remove dead surface skin cells and smooth micro-texture.

• Pink Grapefruit Extract (Citrus Grandis): Citrus extract providing natural antioxidants and a uplifting fragrance during cleansing.

Formula Feel, Absorption & Delivery

The gel-scrub vehicle lather smoothly when mixed with water, producing a rich, cleansing foam containing soft scrubbing beads. As the scrub is massaged across the face, the physical particles sweep away dead corneocytes, while the Micro-Clear matrix delivers 2% Salicylic Acid deep into pore channels. It rinses away cleanly with lukewarm water, leaving zero greasy or tacky residue behind.

Skin Barrier & Surface Finish

Formulated as an active BHA treatment cleanser, the scrub effectively removes excess surface lipids and clears pore blockages. Once rinsed, it leaves a smooth, thoroughly purified, matte finish. Because 2% Salicylic Acid and physical scrubbing can increase dryness, pairing with a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil-free moisturizer helps maintain optimal stratum corneum barrier hydration.

Skin Type Suitable for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types experiencing active breakouts or blackheads.

Concerns Solved Acne breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, excessive surface sebum, and rough micro-texture.

Texture A refreshing pink gel scrub texture filled with fine micro-exfoliating beads that lathers into a rich, purifying foam.

Usage Time Optimized for daily use (AM or PM) as a facial cleansing treatment, adjusted based on individual skin tolerance.

Compatible Routines Fits into an acne-clearing skincare regimen. Use as step 1 after removing heavy makeup. Follow with a gentle hydrating toner, oil-free hydration serum, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and daily broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Who Should Avoid It

• Hypersensitive, Irritated, or Eczema-Prone Barriers: Individuals with active eczema, severe rosacea, or a compromised skin barrier should avoid physical scrubs and high-strength BHAs to prevent over-irritation.