Best Salicylic Acid Facial Cleansing Gels of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Facial cleansing gels with salicylic acid are a popular choice for those with acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. These facial cleansing gels are designed to be gentle on the skin while effectively removing dirt, oil, and makeup. They are ideal for those who want to maintain a clear and healthy complexion. With regular use, facial cleansing gels with salicylic acid can help to reduce the appearance of blemishes and prevent future breakouts.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser Cover #TOP 1
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser
ftb score rating icon 9.9
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel Cover #TOP 2
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser Cover #TOP 3
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Salicylic Acid Facial Cleansing Gels

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser

U31000TR
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser Cover
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser | 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser + LHA + Glycerin | Foaming Acne Face Wash | Helps Clear & Prevent Acne Breakouts | Oil Free Acne Wash | Targets Excess Oil

Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser by La Roche-Posay is a clinically tested facial cleanser that helps clear acne breakouts, blemishes, and pimples. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid, it removes impurities without harsh scrub particles that may irritate skin. The salicylic acid is known for its effective exfoliating properties that help clear and refine the appearance of pores, while the lipo-hydroxy acid has exfoliating and skin renewing properties. This acne face wash is allergy tested, dermatologist tested, and non-comedogenic. It can reduce excess surface oil by up to 47%, leaving your skin less oily throughout the day. With Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, your skin is deeply cleansed and breakouts are diminished, leaving your skin looking even and smooth.

What We Like
Helps clear acne breakouts
Reduces excess surface oil
Gentle exfoliation with no harsh particles

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel

071249419854
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel Cover
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Brightening Cleansing Gel wth Salicylic Acid 6.7 fl oz

The L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel with Salicylic Acid gently dissolves impurities, makeup, and dead cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Its non-drying formula hydrates and refines the appearance of enlarged pores. This fragrance-free, paraben-free, allergy-tested, mineral oil-free, and dye-free formula is perfect for daily use. Dermatologist-validated, it preps your skin for serum application and is perfect for resurfacing your skin.

What We Like
Removes impurities, oil, and makeup
Hydrates and refreshes the skin
Non-drying formula perfect for daily use

Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser

1003-30048
Clear
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser Cover
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser – 6.4 Fl Oz – Salicylic Acid BHA to Purify Pores, Remove Excess Oil & Dirt – Non-Drying, Vegan & Cruelty-Free – Tea Tree Scent – Suitable For All Skin Types

Bliss Clarifying Gel Cleanser is a powerful and purifying facial cleanser that helps to leave your skin clean and clarified without over-drying. Scented with refreshing tea tree, this lightweight and gentle cleanser invigorates your pores and your senses. Formulated with BHA salicylic acid, it effectively clears away dirt and excess oil, purifying your pores and balancing your skin. The addition of detoxifying Brazilian sea water further enhances its purifying properties. After use, your skin will feel light, refreshed, and free from the drying after-effects commonly experienced with other clarifying cleansers. To use, simply massage onto damp skin, lather up, and rinse.

What We Like
Powerful and purifying
Leaves skin clean and clarified
Non-drying
#TOP 4

The Derma Co Salicylic Acid Face Wash

The Derma Co
8906087776437
The Derma Co Salicylic Acid Face Wash Cover
The Derma Co 1% Salicylic Acid Gel Face Wash for Acne | Deeply Cleanses & Exfoliates | Helps Reduce Acne & Controls Oil Production | 1.01 Fl Oz/30ml

The Derma Co Face Wash is designed to help you combat acne effectively. With 1% salicylic acid, it penetrates deeply into your skin, breaking down dirt, oil, and debris that can cause breakouts. This formula also controls oil production, which is essential for preventing clogged pores that lead to acne. Additionally, the face wash exfoliates dead skin cells, promoting a clearer and healthier complexion. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially beneficial for those with oily and acne-prone skin, making it a versatile choice for everyone.

What We Like
Reduces acne effectively
Controls oil production
Deeply cleanses skin
Exfoliates dead skin cells
#TOP 5

Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Acne Facial Cleanser Gel

00070501193075
Clear
Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Acne Facial Cleanser Gel Cover
Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Daily Acne Facial Cleanser, Salicylic Acid Face Wash + Glycolic & Polyhydroxy Acids, Fragrance-Free, 6.3 fl. oz

Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Acne Facial Cleanser Gel is a daily oil-free and fragrance-free face wash that helps clear skin and visibly smooth uneven texture. It features 1% salicylic acid, 2% glycolic acid, and 2% polyhydroxy acid to eliminate stubborn acne breakouts, prevent new acne from forming, shed excess dead surface skin, and clear and smooth skin. This exfoliating gel face wash is free from fragrances, parabens, oil, phthalates, dyes, and sulfates, and is specifically designed for stubborn acne and uneven skin texture.

What We Like
Contains scientifically proven and dermatologist-tested ingredients
Eliminates stubborn acne breakouts and prevents new acne from forming
Visibly smooths uneven skin texture
#TOP 6

Clinique Acne Solutions Clearing Gel

7WJ8011000
Purple
Clinique Acne Solutions Clearing Gel Cover
Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel Acne Treatment With Witch Hazel + Salicylic Acid For Very Dry to Oily Skin Types, 0.5 Fl Oz

Clinique Acne Treatment Gel is designed to gently exfoliate your skin daily. By using the Clarifying Lotion with a cotton ball, you can easily remove dirt, pollution, and excess oil, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean. You will notice an instant boost in radiance, as this lotion effectively sloughs away dull skin flakes for a brighter appearance. Developed by dermatologists, this product comes in five formulas tailored to various skin types, ensuring there's an option that suits your specific needs.

What We Like
Gentle daily exfoliation
Instant skin radiance
Tailored for all skin types
Dermatologist developed
#TOP 7

Paula's Choice CLEAR Cleanser

Bottle - 6 Fl Oz
Paula's Choice CLEAR Cleanser Cover
Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser, Salicylic Acid Acne Face Wash, Redness & Blackheads, 6 Fl Oz

The Paula's Choice Cleanser is designed to combat acne without causing dryness. With salicylic acid, it effectively clears out impurities from your pores, helping to prevent breakouts, blackheads, and redness. Its soothing gel formula refreshes and calms your skin, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. By incorporating this gentle cleanser into your daily skincare routine, you can remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil twice a day, paving the way for healthier, clearer skin.

What We Like
Fights acne effectively
Gentle on sensitive skin
Soothing gel texture
Suitable for all skin types
#TOP 8

Caudalie Vinopure Gel Cleanser

3522930003465
Caudalie Vinopure Gel Cleanser Cover
Caudalie Vinopure Pore Purifying Gel Cleanser with Natural Salicylic Acid, 5 Fl Oz

The Caudalie Vinopure Cleanser is a naturally formulated gel-to-foam cleanser designed to purify your skin. With 99% natural ingredients, it features Natural Salicylic Acid that gently exfoliates and refines your skin's texture, helping to minimize blackheads and breakouts. Antioxidant-rich Grape Water hydrates and soothes, while the Essential Oil Complex works to limit excess oil and keep your complexion clear. This non-drying cleanser is free of soap and sulfates, making it suitable for daily use, morning and evening, to achieve visibly tighter pores and a healthier-looking skin.

What We Like
Natural ingredients
Minimizes blackheads
Hydrating and soothing
Non-drying formula
#TOP 9

Keralyt 3% Salicylic Acid Gel

Keralyt
794731038011
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Keralyt 3% Salicylic Acid Gel Cover
Keralyt 3% Salicylic Acid Gel - Exfoliating Moisturizing Skin Gel - Promotes Relief from Itchy, Redness, Dryness, Roughness, and Flakey Skin from Psoriasis, Eczema, Acne, Dermatitis

Keralyt Exfoliating Skin Gel is designed to provide fast relief for rough and problematic skin. With its 3% salicylic acid, it effectively exfoliates and helps reduce itchy and flaky skin. You can easily apply this gel to sensitive areas up to four times a day, making it convenient for daily use. Regular application not only alleviates symptoms but also tackles the underlying causes of conditions like psoriasis and eczema, helping you achieve smoother, healthier skin over time.

What We Like
Fast relief from irritation
Exfoliates rough skin
Convenient application
Targets skin conditions

OrganiClear Facial Cleanser with Tea Tree

OrganiClear
OrganiClear Facial Cleanser with Tea Tree Cover
OrganiClear Facial Cleanser w/Organic Tea Tree & Salicylic Acid – Gentle Daily Foaming Gel Face Wash for Deep Cleansing & Makeup Removal – Unclogs Pores, Eliminates Dirt & Oil - No Dryness, (2 oz)

OrganiClear Foaming Cleanser is a gentle yet effective daily face wash designed to deeply cleanse your skin. It effortlessly removes makeup, dirt, and oil, so you won't need a separate makeup remover. The combination of organic tea tree extract and mild salicylic acid helps unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells, promoting a fresh and glowing complexion. Additionally, this cleanser is enriched with glycerin and organic amaranth to nourish your skin while maintaining its natural moisture barrier. You can enjoy a clean, soft, and smooth face without any dryness.

What We Like
Deep cleansing action
Gentle on all skin types
Exfoliates without irritation
Vegan and cruelty-free
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our salicylic acid facial cleansing gel research, we found 48 salicylic acid facial cleansing gel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 184,246 customer reviews through our big data system to write the salicylic acid facial cleansing gels list. We found that most customers choose salicylic acid facial cleansing gels with an average price of $25.12.

The salicylic acid facial cleansing gels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of salicylic acid facial cleansing gels, including La Roche-Posay, Bliss, The Derma Co, Neutrogena, Clinique. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.