Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser 16 oz Pump — Salicylic & Mandelic Acids, Fragrance-Free

Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser is a daily foaming gel that gently exfoliates sensitive skin using salicylic, mandelic and gluconolactone acids for smoother, more even-looking skin.

This lightweight, fragrance-free foaming cleanser combines a trio of chemical exfoliants with hydrating ingredients to renew surface skin cells without the scratchiness of physical scrubs. Developed by Cetaphil for sensitive skin, the formula also includes niacinamide, panthenol and glycerin to help maintain moisture and support the skin barrier while removing excess oil and dead skin.

How does this cleanser exfoliate without irritating sensitive skin?

The product relies on a blend of salicylic acid, mandelic acid and gluconolactone to promote gentle surface renewal rather than abrasive scrubbing. These acids have complementary actions: salicylic helps clear pore buildup, mandelic smooths texture, and gluconolactone offers slower, milder exfoliation suitable for delicate skin.

• Salicylic Acid: oil-soluble, targets excess sebum and congested pores.
• Mandelic Acid: larger molecule for gradual, less irritating exfoliation.
• Gluconolactone: a gentle polyhydroxy acid that hydrates while refining.
• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic base minimizes irritation risk.

Will this improve skin texture and tone quickly?

Users may notice a smoother appearance and more even tone within a week of consistent daily use, thanks to accelerated surface cell turnover. The foaming gel cleanses while renewing the skin surface so visible improvements can appear after just a few uses.

• Promotes surface cell renewal for refined texture.
• Formulated to help reduce roughness and uneven tone.
• Non-comedogenic, so it cleans without clogging pores.
• Can be used each morning or evening as part of a routine.

How does this formula keep skin hydrated while exfoliating?

Alongside chemical exfoliants, the cleanser contains niacinamide (vitamin B3), panthenol (vitamin B5) and glycerin to hydrate and soothe the skin barrier. These humectants and barrier-supporting ingredients reduce the chance of over-drying that can accompany exfoliation.

• Niacinamide: helps soothe and even skin tone.
• Panthenol: attracts moisture and supports recovery.
• Glycerin: draws and retains hydration for softer skin.
• Hypoallergenic, paraben-free formula suitable for sensitive skin.

Is this safe to use every day and with other treatments?

Cetaphil designed this cleanser for daily use on sensitive skin, balancing effective exfoliation with gentle actives. If you use prescription or potent topical treatments, consult a dermatologist but this non-abrasive gel is generally compatible with many routines.

• Daily gentle exfoliation without harsh physical particles.
• Dermatologist-recommended brand with clinical testing on sensitive skin.
• Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic to reduce irritation and breakouts.
• When combining with retinoids or strong acids, introduce gradually and monitor skin.

Who is this for: This cleanser is aimed at people with sensitive, combination, or oily-prone skin who want a daily chemical exfoliant that won’t scratch or strip. It suits anyone seeking improved texture, reduced roughness and a gentler way to clear pores while keeping skin hydrated—especially those who prefer fragrance-free, dermatologist-recommended formulations.

Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Gluconolactone, Betaine, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Glycereth-26, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Mandelic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta, Pantolactone​​