CeraVe Acne Control Gel 2% Salicylic Acid — 1.35 fl oz, Glycolic + Niacinamide for Gentle Exfoliation & Hydration

CeraVe Acne Control Gel is a lightweight, oil-free acne treatment that combines 2% salicylic acid with glycolic and lactic acids plus niacinamide and ceramides to clear blemishes while preserving skin hydration.

This dermatologist-developed gel is formulated to address active breakouts and help prevent future blemishes without leaving skin tight or flaky. The alcohol-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula uses MVE delivery to release moisturizing ingredients over time and supports the skin’s barrier with three essential ceramides. Recommended for nightly use, it pairs BHA pore-penetration with AHA resurfacing to smooth texture and reduce the look of pores.

How does this gel treat acne while staying gentle on skin?

The formula blends salicylic acid (a BHA) to penetrate and clear oily pores with glycolic and lactic acids (AHAs) to exfoliate surface texture. Niacinamide calms and helps even skin tone, while three ceramides and MVE Technology restore and sustain moisture so the gel doesn’t over-dry. It’s alcohol-free and oil-free to avoid stripping skin of essential lipids.

• 2% salicylic acid targets clogged pores and blackheads
• Glycolic + lactic acids gently exfoliate dead skin cells
• Niacinamide soothes and helps reduce redness
• MVE Technology + ceramides deliver 24-hour hydration support

What results can I expect and how soon?

Users often notice improved skin clarity and smoother texture within days to a few weeks, depending on skin type and consistency of use. The BHA action helps reduce visible blackheads and breakouts, while AHAs promote a more radiant surface. Because results vary, start with nightly application and monitor tolerance before increasing frequency.

• Visible smoothing and radiance improvement within days to weeks
• Reduced blackheads and fewer new breakouts with regular use
• Maintains hydration to prevent flaky or overly dry skin

How should I use this product in my routine?

Apply the gel at night to clean, dry skin as a treatment step after cleansing and before heavier creams if using any. A little goes a long way—use a thin layer on affected areas. Always follow with broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, since exfoliating acids can increase sun sensitivity.

• Use nightly as a targeted or all-over treatment after cleansing
• Apply a thin layer to blemish-prone or oily areas
• Pair with daytime SPF to protect newly exfoliated skin
• Patch-test if you have sensitive or reactive skin

Is this safe for oily, blemish-prone, or sensitive skin?

The gel is designed with oily and acne-prone skin in mind—its oil-free formula helps control shine and pore congestion. Ceramides and MVE Technology help maintain the skin barrier, which can reduce irritation risk compared with harsher drying treatments. If you have highly sensitive skin, perform a patch test and introduce gradually.

• Non-comedogenic and oil-free for acne-prone skin
• Fragrance-free and paraben-free to lower irritation potential
• Includes barrier-supporting ceramides for gentler use
• Patch-test recommended for very reactive skin types

Who this is for: CeraVe Acne Control Gel is suitable for people with oily or combination skin who want an effective acne treatment that also respects the skin’s moisture barrier. It’s a good match for anyone looking to reduce blackheads, smooth texture, and treat occasional or persistent breakouts without harsh alcohol-based drying. Not intended for children under the manufacturer’s recommended age; consult a dermatologist for severe or cystic acne concerns.

Ingredients

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: SALICYLIC ACID 2% INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: WATER, GLYCERIN, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, GLYCOLIC ACID, LACTIC ACID, NIACINAMIDE, CERAMIDE NP, CERAMIDE AP, CERAMIDE EOP, CARBOMER, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, BEHENTRIMONIUM METHOSULFATE, TRIETHYL CITRATE, SODIUM HYALURONATE, SODIUM LAUROYL LACTYLATE, CHOLESTEROL, CHLORPHENESIN, DISODIUM EDTA, HYDROXYPROPYL GUAR, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, XANTHAN GUM, PHYTOSPHINGOSINE, BENZOIC ACID