Cetaphil Gentle Clear Mattifying Acne Moisturizer, 3 oz — 0.5% Salicylic Acid, Lightweight Hydrating Matte Finish

Cetaphil Gentle Clear Mattifying Acne Moisturizer is a lightweight, non-irritating face lotion with 0.5% salicylic acid that hydrates and helps clear and prevent breakouts while delivering a matte finish.

This daily moisturizer is formulated for sensitive, acne-prone skin. It balances gentle exfoliation from 0.5% salicylic acid with soothing botanicals and a prebiotic complex to reduce dryness and the look of redness, while absorbing excess oil for a smoother, less shiny complexion. The lotion is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and developed for long-lasting hydration without heavy residue.

How does this moisturizer treat breakouts without irritating sensitive skin?

The formula uses 0.5% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy ingredient that helps loosen debris inside pores while being low enough in concentration to suit delicate skin. Combined with calming botanicals and a prebiotic complex, it aims to reduce visible redness and minimize dryness commonly associated with acne treatments.

• 0.5% salicylic acid for gentle pore unclogging
• Prebiotic complex to support skin comfort
• Botanical extracts that soothe visible irritation
• Fragrance-free to lower irritation risk

Will this moisturizer leave my skin shiny or greasy during the day?

This product is designed to absorb quickly and provide a matte finish, so it helps control surface oil and reduces shine. It hydrates for extended periods without a heavy film, making it suitable under makeup or when you want a natural, smoother look.

• Fast-absorbing, lightweight texture
• Mattifying effect to minimize shine
• Non-greasy feel ideal for layering under SPF or foundation
• Hydration that lasts up to 48 hours for many users

How should I incorporate this into my skincare routine for best results?

Use it after cleansing and any treatment serums, morning and evening as tolerated. Apply a pea-sized amount to the entire face, avoiding the immediate eye area; follow with sunscreen during daytime to protect treated skin from sun sensitivity.

• Apply after cleansing and toning
• Use daily—AM and PM—if skin tolerates the salicylic acid
• Pair with sunscreen in the morning
• Start with every-other-day use if you have very reactive skin

Is this safe to use with other acne products or actives?

It can often be combined with other gentle products but exercise caution when layering multiple actives like strong retinoids or high-strength chemical exfoliants. If you use stronger treatments, introduce this moisturizer slowly and watch for signs of irritation.

• Compatible with mild cleansers and hydrating serums
• Avoid layering with potent exfoliants immediately to reduce irritation
• Consult a dermatologist if using prescription acne medications
• Patch-test new combinations to ensure tolerance

Who is this for: This moisturizer is aimed at people with sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin who want gentle acne control plus lightweight hydration. It suits anyone looking to reduce shine and improve skin texture without heavy creams or added fragrance, including those seeking a dermatologist-recommended option to pair with everyday skincare.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 0.5%, Inactive Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Sodium Polyacrylate, Glycerin, Ceteareth-20, Polysorbate 60, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, PPG-2 Myristyl Ether Propionate, Phenoxyethanol, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Glycol, Zinc Gluconate, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate, Morus Alba Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Bisabolol, Safflower Oil/Palm Oil Aminopropanediol Esters, PPG-5-Laureth-5, Sodium Hydroxide, Kojic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Disodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-11, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin