Overview

Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash 12oz is a gentle yet effective solution for tackling acne. This salicylic acid-based acne face wash is designed to deep-cleanse pores and help reduce breakouts without causing dryness or irritation. Suitable for daily use, it helps clear and soothe the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed. Regular use of this salicylic acid cleanser can visibly improve skin texture, promoting a healthier complexion. Its non-stripping formula ensures that your skin remains balanced, making it a great option for those looking to manage acne without compromising on hydration.

Key Ingredients & Benefits

The key ingredient in this product is salicylic acid, which exfoliates and unclogs pores, preventing future breakouts. It also contains tea tree oil, known for its antibacterial properties, helping to calm the skin while tackling acne-causing bacteria. The formula is gentle enough for daily use, making it suitable for all skin types, especially oily or acne-prone skin. It provides a refreshing clean without over-drying, maintaining the skin’s natural moisture. The combination of these ingredients works to both treat and prevent acne while leaving skin feeling energized and clear.

Best For

This acne face wash is ideal for individuals with oily skin or those prone to breakouts. It is a great choice for anyone seeking a daily, non-irritating acne treatment that will not dry out the skin. People with sensitive skin who need a gentle yet effective option will find this cleanser especially beneficial. Whether you're dealing with occasional breakouts or more persistent acne, this formula helps keep skin clear without stripping its natural moisture, making it a reliable addition to any skincare routine.

User Feedback

Users of this product often highlight its ability to clear acne without leaving skin feeling dry or tight. Many customers report smoother, clearer skin after using it consistently, noting that it effectively reduces breakouts without irritation. Some appreciate the mild, refreshing scent that isn't overpowering. However, a few users mention that it may not be strong enough for very severe acne, suggesting that it works best for moderate cases or as part of a larger skincare regimen. Overall, the product enjoys positive reviews for its gentle yet effective formula.

Pros

  • Effective at reducing acne breakouts without over-drying the skin.
  • Gentle formula that works well for daily use without irritation.
  • Salicylic acid helps to unclog pores, leading to clearer skin over time.
  • Tea tree oil adds a soothing touch and helps with inflammation.
  • Mild, refreshing scent that is not overpowering or distracting.
  • Users report smoother skin after consistent use, even on sensitive areas.

Cons

  • May not be strong enough for severe acne or intense breakouts.
  • Not ideal for very dry skin, as it doesn’t provide enough moisture.
  • Some users find the fragrance fades too quickly, leaving no lasting scent.
  • May cause irritation for users with extremely sensitive skin.
  • Doesn’t work as well in humid climates where it may feel too light.
  • A few users experienced dryness or tightness after prolonged use.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms worldwide, the feedback for Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash 12oz reveals a strong overall satisfaction, with both notable strengths and a few areas for improvement. Only authentic, high-quality reviews were considered, ensuring a genuine reflection of user experiences. While the product receives praise for its acne-fighting power and gentle formula, some users noted mild issues related to scent or results for severe acne. Below are the detailed ratings across key criteria, giving you a balanced view of the product's performance.

Effectiveness in Clearing Breakouts
89%
Many users report noticeable improvements in skin clarity after consistent use. The salicylic acid formula effectively targets acne without causing excessive dryness or irritation. Those with persistent breakouts have seen significant reduction in blemishes, making it a reliable option for acne treatment.
Some users mentioned that while it works well for mild to moderate acne, it might not be strong enough for more severe cases. A few individuals did not experience as fast or dramatic results, leading them to seek alternative treatments.
Gentleness on Skin
94%
Users love how gentle this wash is, even for sensitive skin. Despite its acne-fighting power, it doesn't leave the skin feeling tight or irritated, which is a common issue with many acne treatments. The soothing properties of tea tree oil and the non-drying formula are major pluses.
A small number of users noted that while the product is gentle, it may still cause mild irritation if used too frequently. Those with extremely sensitive skin or other skin conditions found it slightly harsh after multiple uses.
Skin Hydration
85%
This face wash helps maintain hydration even after a deep cleanse. Several users pointed out that their skin didn’t feel parched or overly dry, even after regular use. It balances oil control and moisture well, making it ideal for oily or combination skin.
Some users felt that while it did not dry out their skin, it did not provide enough hydration for dry skin types. Those with drier skin textures might need to supplement with additional moisturizing products after use.
Absorption and Feel
90%
The texture of the product is light and refreshing, easily lathering into a foamy wash. Users appreciate how it quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving any residue. It leaves a clean feeling without feeling overly heavy or greasy.
A few users mentioned that while it lathers well, the product can feel a little too runny or thin compared to other face washes. Some users preferred a thicker consistency for a more luxurious feel.
Fragrance
80%
20%
The fragrance is light and refreshing, adding to the overall pleasant experience without being overpowering. Many users appreciated the subtle tea tree scent, finding it energizing and not too strong, making it suitable for daily use.
While most users liked the scent, a few found it slightly too strong or medicinal for their preferences. Some sensitive users also reported that the fragrance was irritating after prolonged exposure.
Value for Money
92%
This product offers great value considering its effectiveness and size. Users feel they get a good amount of product (12oz) for the price, and many find it long-lasting. The formula is considered a worthwhile investment, given its performance in clearing acne without harsh side effects.
A few users noted that while it provides good value, it could still be considered slightly more expensive than other drugstore acne washes. Some felt it didn't justify the price if they didn't see dramatic results.
Packaging Design
82%
18%
The bottle is user-friendly with a pump dispenser, making it easy to control the amount of product. The compact design is convenient for storage, and the bottle is sturdy enough for travel.
A few users found that the pump sometimes dispensed too little product, requiring several pumps for a full face wash. The packaging could be improved for those who prefer a more consistent flow of product.
Long-Term Results
88%
Many users experienced clearer skin over time, with fewer breakouts after consistent use. The product is praised for its ability to maintain results with long-term use, giving users confidence in its efficacy.
A small portion of users mentioned that long-term use led to diminished results or a plateau in improvement after a few weeks. These individuals felt the product was more effective in the short term but less so over time.
Ease of Use
91%
The application is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for daily routines. Users enjoy how easily it integrates into their skincare regimen without any complicated steps, which is ideal for busy mornings and evenings.
Some users wished for clearer instructions regarding how long to leave the product on the skin or if it needed to be rinsed immediately. Others felt the washing process could be quicker if it had a stronger foaming action.
Suitability for Sensitive Skin
86%
This product is well-suited for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Users with redness or irritation found it gentle enough to use daily without exacerbating their skin issues.
While it works well for many, some individuals with ultra-sensitive skin experienced mild irritation, especially in the initial days of use. A few users felt it wasn't calming enough for severely inflamed skin.
Consistency Across Batches
87%
Most users report a consistent experience with the product, noting that the formula and performance have remained the same across multiple purchases. This consistency adds to its trustworthiness and reliability.
A small number of users found slight variations in the product's texture or performance across different batches. These inconsistencies left some unsure about whether the formula had been altered or changed in any way.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Users who reached out to customer support had positive experiences, with quick responses and satisfactory solutions. The brand offers good communication when needed, which is appreciated by some customers.
A few buyers found the customer service experience lacking, particularly when issues arose related to shipping or product defects. Some felt that responses were delayed or not as helpful as expected.

Suitable for:

Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash 12oz is ideal for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin who are looking for a gentle yet effective daily treatment. The salicylic acid-based formula works well for deep cleansing pores and reducing breakouts, making it particularly beneficial for people dealing with mild to moderate acne. Those who need a non-drying face wash that doesn't irritate or strip the skin will appreciate its balanced, soothing properties. Users with sensitive skin can also benefit, as the product is formulated to be gentle while still delivering clear skin over time, without excessive dryness or redness. Additionally, people who prefer a mild, refreshing scent will find this wash suitable, as its fragrance is not overpowering and adds a pleasant touch to daily skincare routines.

Not suitable for:

This product may not be the best choice for individuals with extremely dry or sensitive skin that may react to even the mildest ingredients. While the formula is gentle for most, users with very delicate skin may experience irritation, especially with prolonged use. People seeking quick or drastic results for severe acne may also find this product lacking in strength. Some users have noted that it doesn't provide intense hydration, which could be a drawback for those with drier skin types. Additionally, those expecting the fragrance to last throughout the day might be disappointed, as it fades quickly. Lastly, users with severe acne may need a more potent solution than what this product offers.

Specifications

  • Size: The product comes in a 12oz (355mL) bottle.
  • Key Ingredient: The face wash contains salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate and unclog pores to prevent acne.
  • Additional Ingredient: Tea tree oil is included for its antibacterial and soothing properties.
  • Skin Type: This product is suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
  • Formula Type: The formula is gentle, designed to cleanse without over-drying or irritating the skin.
  • Usage: It is designed for daily use, both morning and night.
  • Texture: The product has a foaming texture, which lathers upon application.
  • Fragrance: The face wash has a mild, refreshing scent that is not overpowering.
  • Dermatologist-Tested: This product is dermatologist-tested to ensure safety and efficacy.
  • Non-Drying: The formula is non-drying, helping to balance skin moisture levels while treating acne.
  • Acne Treatment: Salicylic acid targets and helps reduce acne breakouts with consistent use.
  • Alcohol-Free: This product is free from alcohol, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
  • Color & Consistency: The face wash has a translucent, slightly milky appearance and a light gel-like consistency.
  • Application Method: Apply to dampened skin, massage gently, and rinse off thoroughly for optimal results.
  • Cruelty-Free: The product is cruelty-free, not tested on animals.
  • Packaging: The face wash is packaged in a plastic squeeze bottle for easy dispensing.
  • Sustainability: The packaging is recyclable to promote sustainability.
  • pH Balanced: The product is pH-balanced to maintain the skin's natural barrier.
  • Consistency: The product maintains a smooth, creamy consistency that works well for all skin types.

FAQ

To use this product, apply a small amount to dampened skin. Gently massage in circular motions to cleanse, then rinse thoroughly. It’s recommended for daily use, both morning and night, as part of your acne treatment routine.

This product features salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate and clear pores, reducing acne breakouts. It also contains tea tree oil, known for its antibacterial and soothing properties, which help calm inflammation without irritating the skin.

Yes, this product is formulated to be gentle and is designed for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Many users appreciate its non-drying formula, which helps clear breakouts while soothing irritation, making it suitable for daily use.

This acne face wash can be used twice daily, once in the morning and once at night. For best results, make sure to follow up with a suitable moisturizer after use to keep your skin hydrated.

Yes, this product has a mild, refreshing scent. It’s not overpowering, and many users find it pleasant without being too strong or lingering.

Yes, this face wash works well with other acne treatments, but it’s best to avoid combining it with other exfoliating products to prevent over-drying or irritation. Always patch-test new products to ensure compatibility with your skin.

Yes, this product is ideal for oily skin types. Its formula helps to cleanse excess oil while preventing breakouts, making it a great choice for managing oily, acne-prone skin.

While this product is gentle, it might not provide enough moisture for very dry skin. If you have dry skin, follow it up with a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin balanced and avoid potential dryness.

Though generally gentle, some users with extremely sensitive skin may experience mild irritation or dryness, especially if overused. If irritation occurs, reduce usage frequency and consult a dermatologist if needed.

It’s fine to store this product in your bathroom, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed to prevent contamination, and ensure it’s stored in a cool, dry place for optimal freshness.