![COSRX Salicylic Aid Daily Gentle Cleanser with BHA for acne-prone oily skin ([SkinSort][1])](http://www.skincarisma.com/cdn/shop/files/p5hdccvbd7wthzf2yfcnjc0ro7ie.jpg?v=1766246716&width=1946)
Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective daily foaming cleanser formulated with 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Tea Tree Oil to unclog pores, control excess sebum, and prevent breakouts while maintaining skin's moisture balance. Perfect for oily and acne-prone skin seeking clearer, smoother complexion without the harsh, stripping effects of traditional acne cleansers.
BHA Exfoliation
0.5% Salicylic Acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris that cause blackheads and breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBHA Exfoliation
0.5% Salicylic Acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris that cause blackheads and breakouts.
Tea Tree Oil
Natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help calm existing blemishes and prevent new ones from forming.
Willow Bark Water
Natural source of salicin provides additional gentle exfoliation with skin-soothing and antioxidant benefits.
Rich Lather
Micro creamy soap system creates dense foam that thoroughly cleanses without stripping skin's natural moisture barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 0.5% salicylic acid. While low-dose topical BHA in wash-off products is generally considered safe, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Low concentration salicylic acid in rinse-off products unlikely to be absorbed significantly. Safe when avoiding contact with infant's skin.
NOT safe. Contains fatty acids (Myristic, Stearic, Lauric Acid), Polysorbate 80, Glycol Distearate, and Saccharomyces Ferment that feed malassezia.
pH is higher (9.0-9.5) than ideal. Patch test recommended. May cause dryness if overused - limit to once daily or every other day for sensitive types.
Contains salicylates derived from plant sources. Those with aspirin allergy should consult a dermatologist before use.
Can be used in same routine as retinol. Use cleanser in AM routine and retinol in PM to minimize irritation potential.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within, dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and clearing congestion. Unlike AHAs, it's oil-soluble, making it especially effective for oily and acne-prone skin.
- Mechanism: Keratolytic action breaks down keratin, unclogging pores
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and swelling of active breakouts
- FDA Approved: 0.5-2% concentration recognized as OTC acne treatment
Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia) Leaf OilProven
A powerful essential oil with natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Used for over 100 years in Australia as a natural antiseptic, particularly effective against acne-causing bacteria P. acnes.
- Research: 5% tea tree oil shown comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne
- Terpinen-4-ol: Main active compound responsible for antimicrobial effects
- Calming: Reduces inflammation and redness around blemishes
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark WaterPromising
Natural extract from white willow bark containing salicin, a precursor to salicylic acid. Provides gentle exfoliation with additional skin-soothing and antioxidant benefits beyond synthetic BHA alone.
- Natural BHA: Body converts salicin to salicylic acid for mild exfoliation
- Antioxidant: Contains polyphenols that protect against free radical damage
- Astringent: Helps tighten pores and reduce their appearance
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl TaurateSupporting
A gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that creates rich foam while cleansing without stripping. Biodegradable and leaves skin feeling soft rather than tight or dry.
- Mild cleansing: Gentler than traditional sulfate surfactants
- Foam stability: Creates lasting, creamy lather
- Eco-friendly: Biodegradable and derived from renewable sources
30 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, Butylene Glycol, Glycol Distearate, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Salicylic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance, Sodium Chloride, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Saccharomyces Ferment, Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethyl Hexanediol, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser in a double-cleansing routine (AM & PM) or as your only cleanser in the morning. Best suited for evening use if using retinol at night.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils and cause irritation.
Create Lather
Dispense a pea-sized amount onto palm. Add water and work into a rich, creamy foam - a little goes a long way!
Massage Gently
Apply foam to face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on oily T-zone areas. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until no residue remains. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel - don't rub!
Follow With Hydration
Apply hydrating toner and moisturizer immediately to lock in hydration. Use SPF in morning routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with blackheads and whiteheads
- You want to prevent breakouts without harsh products
- You need a gentle daily exfoliating cleanser
- You prefer K-beauty formulations
- You want affordable, effective acne care
- You love products that last long time
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're allergic to aspirin/salicylates
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You need a low pH cleanser (this is pH 9.0-9.5)
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all BHA
- You have extremely sensitive, reactive skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Controls excess sebum, unclogs pores, and leaves skin matte without over-stripping. Can use twice daily.
Works well on T-zone oiliness while gentle enough for drier cheeks. Follow with hydrating products.
Salicylic acid + Tea Tree combo effectively targets and prevents breakouts. Great for hormonal and regular acne.
Can use a few times per week for pore maintenance and prevention. May not need daily use.
May feel slightly drying. Limit to 2-3 times per week and always follow with rich moisturizer.
Contains fragrance and higher pH. Patch test first. Many sensitive users report no issues, but proceed with caution.
Results timeline
MONTHS 2-3Initial Cleansing Effect
Skin feels cleaner, less greasy throughout the day. Some may experience mild purging as clogged pores begin to clear. Texture starts to feel smoother.
85% noticed cleaner-feeling skinReduced Oiliness & Fewer New Breakouts
Sebum production noticeably reduced. Existing blackheads start loosening. New breakouts decrease in frequency. Any initial purging typically subsides.
78% reported fewer new pimplesVisible Pore Improvement
Pores appear minimized. Blackheads and whiteheads significantly reduced. Skin texture smoother and more refined. Overall complexion clearer.
72% saw reduced blackheadsLong-Term Clarity
Consistent clear skin with maintained oil control. Breakouts become rare occurrences. Skin tone more even. Best results with continued daily use.
68% reported long-term acne controlRatings by platform
16K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively controls oil and sebum production
- Reduces and prevents blackheads/whiteheads
- Gentle enough for daily use on most skin
- A little product goes a very long way
- Affordable K-beauty option
- Pleasant tea tree/citrus scent
- Creates rich, satisfying foam
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped
- Cruelty-free and vegan formula
- Visible results within 2-4 weeks
Criticized
- NOT fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Higher pH (9.0-9.5) than ideal
- Contains fragrance (may irritate some)
- Can be drying for dry/dehydrated skin
- Stings badly if it gets in eyes
- Some experience initial purging
- Tube packaging not the most hygienic
- May cause dryness if overused
- Not travel-friendly size (150ml)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher SA concentration (2%) with zinc for added oil control. Simpler formula without tea tree. Great for those wanting stronger BHA action.
Classic drugstore option with 2% salicylic acid. Contains aloe and chamomile for soothing. More widely available but can be more drying.
Triple acid formula (AHA+BHA+PHA) with tea tree. More exfoliating but also more potential for irritation. pH-balanced formula.
Same 0.5% SA concentration. Fragrance-free, gentler formula. Better for sensitive skin but at higher price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent contamination.
Squeezable plastic tube with flip-top cap. Sturdy and travel-secure but note 150ml exceeds TSA carry-on limits.
No - 150ml exceeds 100ml TSA limit. Decant into smaller container for air travel or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy. While the 0.5% salicylic acid concentration is low and the product is a rinse-off formula (minimizing absorption), many healthcare providers recommend avoiding salicylic acid during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN before use. For breastfeeding, the product is generally considered safe as topical salicylic acid in wash-off products is unlikely to be absorbed in significant amounts, but avoid applying to areas that may contact baby's skin.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast: Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid (fatty acids), Polysorbate 80, Glycol Distearate, and Saccharomyces Ferment. If you have fungal acne/pityrosporum folliculitis, consider La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Cleanser or Paula's Choice CLEAR Cleanser instead.
Yes, but with proper routine separation. With retinol: use the cleanser in AM and retinol in PM to avoid over-exfoliation. With Vitamin C: use Vitamin C serum after cleansing in AM. With other AHAs/BHAs: be cautious of over-exfoliation - if using a leave-on BHA toner or AHA, you may want to use this cleanser only once daily or every other day. Monitor your skin for irritation, dryness, or peeling.
This cleanser works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The salicylic acid effectively controls sebum and unclogs pores. Normal skin can use it a few times weekly for maintenance. Dry and sensitive skin types should use with caution - it may be too drying for daily use. Those with dry skin should limit to 2-3 times per week and always follow with hydrating products.
Most users notice cleaner-feeling, less oily skin within the first week. Reduction in new breakouts typically occurs within 2-3 weeks. Visible improvement in blackheads, pore appearance, and overall skin texture usually takes 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Some users may experience initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts) during weeks 1-2 as clogged pores clear - this is normal and usually subsides.
Use as your water-based cleanser (Step 2 in double cleansing, after oil cleanser). In the morning, it can be your only cleanser. Apply to damp skin, massage for 30-60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). The cleanser works in both AM and PM routines but can be used just once daily if you experience any dryness.
The cleanser has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5 (low-moderate). While it contains some potentially comedogenic fatty acids (Myristic Acid rating 3, Lauric Acid rating 4), as a rinse-off product, these ingredients have minimal contact time with skin. The salicylic acid actually helps unclog pores, so for most users, this cleanser will help rather than cause congestion. However, those highly sensitive to comedogenic ingredients should patch test first.
The cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. However, most users find the 150ml tube lasts 4-6 months with daily use because a small amount creates abundant foam. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell before the 12-month mark, discontinue use.
Verdict: The COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser is an excellent, affordable K-beauty option for those with oily and acne-prone skin seeking a gentle yet effective daily exfoliating cleanser. The 0.5% salicylic acid combined with tea tree oil delivers noticeable improvements in oil control, blackheads, and breakouts within weeks. While it's not suitable for fungal acne and has a higher pH than ideal, the vast majority of users with oily/combo skin love this product for its ability to cleanse thoroughly without over-stripping. A true holy grail for many and exceptional value considering how long one tube lasts.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Ethyl Hexanediol
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|