What exfoliating acid is in CeraVe SA Cleanser?

What does salicylic acid do in the cleanser?

Salicylic acid helps remove dead skin cells and soften rough skin through chemical exfoliation. Renewing SA Cleanser also washes away dirt, oil and makeup without using harsh microbeads or grains. Its ceramides help maintain the skin's protective barrier, hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture, and niacinamide helps soothe skin.2

An exfoliating cleanser combines washing and light exfoliation in one step, which is one less job for the bathroom shelf. Regular exfoliation can help rough texture feel smoother and dead skin buildup look less dull. Chemical exfoliants such as salicylic acid may also help unclog pores. These are general exfoliation benefits, not a timetable for clearing acne.5

Which SA Cleanser do you have?

The salicylic acid percentage is not stated for these SA cleansers. Do not assume they contain 2% just because CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser does. Check the ingredient list on your own bottle, especially when buying across countries or replacing an older bottle: CeraVe updates ingredient lists regularly.45

SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin is a separate product that CeraVe describes as exfoliating with salicylic acid and lactic acid. SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin combines salicylic acid with spherical jojoba beads for chemical and physical exfoliation. These are separate products, despite a naming system that makes them sound like close colleagues.56

How do you use SA Cleanser?

1. 1Wet your skin with lukewarm water.
2. 2Massage the cleanser gently over your skin in a circular motion.
3. 3Rinse the cleanser off.
4. 4Follow with moisturizer. Use sunscreen during the day.

The Canadian SA Cleanser can be used on the face and body at any time of day. Keep it away from your eyes; if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. For the Australian SA Smoothing Cleanser, CeraVe specifies a coin sized amount on wet facial skin, a gentle massage for a few seconds, then rinsing and patting dry with a soft cloth.34

Can you use it every day?

For Canadian SA Cleanser, CeraVe says to start two to three times a week and increase as tolerated. Daily use can cause dryness or irritation, especially on the face; the body often tolerates more frequent use. General advice to wash morning and night does not mean every wash needs an exfoliating cleanser.37

If Canadian SA Cleanser leaves skin dry or tight, reduce frequency, follow with moisturizer, and avoid other strong acids on the same day until skin adjusts. Sensitive skin needs a cautious introduction: patch test first and start infrequently. Its Canadian description includes instant smoothing, but that is not a promised schedule for resolving congestion.3

For BHA products generally, stop using the product and consult a physician if you develop skin irritation or prolonged stinging. Follow the label's application limits, use sun protection, and avoid BHA products on infants and children.1