Purify acne-prone skin and treat breakouts at the source with the dermatologist-tested action of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash. As the #1 dermatologist-recommended acne-fighting facial cleanser, this 2% Salicylic Acid foaming liquid wash targets deep pore congestion, excess sebum, and active pimples without over-drying the skin. By pairing maximum-strength BHA with Neutrogena's proprietary Micro-Clear Technology, it glides across facial contours effortlessly.

This classic acne cleanser works dynamically to break down trapped skin oils, dissolve keratin plugs within hair follicles, and calm acne-related inflammation. Formulated with skin conditioners like Aloe Vera and Chamomile extracts, the golden amber liquid gel turns into a rich, purifying foam that rinses cleanly away, leaving skin feeling fresh, clear, and thoroughly cleansed.

How It Works & Key Benefits

This product targets active acne papules, blackheads, and pore congestion caused by trapped sebum and dead corneocyte accumulation. By combining lipid-soluble Salicylic Acid (BHA) with a specialized surfactant delivery network, it penetrates deep into oil-filled follicle channels. This targeted action dissolves desmosomal bonds between dead cells, flushes out trapped sebum, and prevents future acne formation while soothing surface irritation.

Core Active Ingredients & What They Do

• 2% Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid): Oil-soluble keratolytic active that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve lipid debris and treat acne breakouts.

• Micro-Clear Technology: Specialized lipophilic delivery complex that speeds up the penetration of active BHA directly to the source of pore blockages.

• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract & Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract: Soothing botanical extracts that calm skin redness, soothe irritation, and counteract dryness.

• C12-15 Alkyl Lactate: Conditioning ester that helps maintain skin surface softness during cleansing.

Formula Feel, Absorption & Delivery

The liquid gel vehicle dispenses easily from the pump and lathers rapidly when worked with water into a gentle, airy foam. As the lather is massaged across facial contours, the Micro-Clear matrix delivers 2% Salicylic Acid into pore openings without requiring mechanical scrubbing. It rinses away completely with lukewarm water, leaving zero heavy, oily, or sticky residue behind.

Skin Barrier & Surface Finish

Formulated as an active BHA treatment cleanser, the wash purifies excess surface sebum and clears follicle openings. Once rinsed, it leaves a fresh, matte, clean-touch finish. Because 2% Salicylic Acid can increase stratum corneum dryness with frequent use, pairing with a lightweight, oil-free non-comedogenic moisturizer helps support optimal skin barrier hydration.

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

Concerns Solved Acne breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, excessive surface sebum, skin congestion, and acne-induced inflammation.

Texture A clear, golden amber liquid gel cleanser that lathers into a light, purifying, non-greasy foam.

Usage Time Optimized for daily use (AM and 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 soothing hydrating toner, oil-free hydration serum, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and broad-spectrum daily sunscreen.

Who Should Avoid It

• Extremely Dry or Compromised Skin Barriers: Individuals with severe dry skin, active eczema flares, or severe rosacea should avoid daily high-strength BHA washes to prevent further barrier disruption.