CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser vs Foaming Cleanser

What is actually different?

The listed price gap is $2, so the names are doing more competing than the prices. Compare bottle sizes before judging value per ounce. Check your bottle's ingredient list too, because formulas are updated.1

Which should you pick?

Acne Control makes most sense for mild acne dominated by blackheads and whiteheads. Salicylic acid unclogs pores and exfoliates skin, making those its best targets. Foaming Facial Cleanser is the simpler choice between these two when you do not need an acne active in your wash. That is a routine choice, not a promise that Foaming Facial Cleanser cannot irritate skin.2

How should you use them?

1. 1Before first using Acne Control, test a small amount on one or two small affected areas for three days. If there is no reaction or discomfort, proceed with the package directions.
2. 2Cleanse gently with your fingertips rather than a washcloth, sponge or scrub.
3. 3Follow your bottle's washing and rinsing directions. For acne prone skin, general guidance is to wash up to twice daily and after sweating.
4. 4Start Acne Control less often if needed while your skin adjusts. Reduce frequency if dryness or irritation develops.

The Colombian counterpart, Limpiador Control Imperfecciones, is described as a gel that turns to foam, with hectorite clay to absorb excess oil. CeraVe Colombia directs morning and evening use: wet the face, lather a small amount, massage gently while avoiding the eyes, and rinse well. Follow your own US bottle rather than borrowing the Colombian schedule.6

What if you already use an acne treatment?

Do not add Acne Control to skin already treated with benzoyl peroxide or tretinoin unless your doctor directs you to. Combining topical salicylic acid with these medicines can cause significant irritation. Avoid abrasive cleansers and alcohol containing products on the treated skin too. If your prescription routine already supplies the acne treatment, Foaming Facial Cleanser avoids adding salicylic acid through the cleansing step.3

How long should you give Acne Control?

Give a new acne treatment six to eight weeks before adding another treatment. General acne treatment timelines are four to eight weeks for fewer breakouts and around 16 weeks for clearing when treatment works; these are not a measured timetable for this cleanser. Switching products repeatedly can irritate skin and cause breakouts. Seek a dermatologist if acne is not clearing within a few months, or sooner for deep, painful pimples, scarring or lingering dark spots.25

Who should be careful?

Do not apply Acne Control to broken, red, swollen, irritated or infected skin. Discuss acne treatment with a dermatologist before using it if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant; tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Get medical advice for severe or persistent irritation or stinging. Stop salicylic acid and seek immediate medical help for hives, throat tightness, breathing difficulty, faintness or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.23