Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser — 8 oz Pump Bottle, Salicylic & Mandelic Acids, Hydrating

Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser is a daily foaming gel that lightly exfoliates sensitive skin using a trio of acids while hydrating to reveal softer, smoother skin.

This foaming gel from Cetaphil combines salicylic acid with mandelic acid and gluconolactone to encourage gentle surface cell renewal without the abrasive feel of scrubs. Formulated to be fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, it also contains niacinamide, panthenol and glycerin to support hydration and help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. Clinically tested on sensitive skin and packaged in an 8 oz pump bottle, it’s designed for everyday use to refine texture and promote an even-looking tone.

How does this cleanser exfoliate without irritating sensitive skin?

The formula uses chemical exfoliants that work at the skin’s surface rather than abrasive particles that can cause micro-tears. Salicylic acid helps clear excess oil, mandelic acid provides a milder alpha-hydroxy action, and gluconolactone gently renews skin for a smoother feel.

• Salicylic acid: oil-penetrating beta hydroxy acid to help unclog and refine.
• Mandelic acid: larger-molecule AHA for gradual surface exfoliation.
• Gluconolactone: polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates with added moisturizing properties.
• Foaming gel texture: cleanses while delivering acids evenly without scrubbing.

Will this cleanser dry out or strip my skin?

It’s formulated to balance exfoliation with moisturizing ingredients so the skin doesn’t feel tight after use. Niacinamide, panthenol (vitamin B5) and glycerin help attract and lock in moisture while the cleanser performs its renewing action.

• Niacinamide: supports skin tone and resilience.
• Panthenol: hydrates and soothes the skin surface.
• Glycerin: humectant that helps retain water for comfortable skin.
• Free of fragrance and parabens to limit potential irritants.

How quickly can I expect to see smoother, more even-looking skin?

Many users notice improved texture and radiance after a single use, with more visible smoothing and a more even tone developing over the first week of consistent daily use. Results depend on individual skin type and routine consistency.

• Immediate: cleansed, refreshed feel and surface refinement after first use.
• One week: more noticeable smoothing and evening of skin tone for many users.
• Ongoing: continued gentle renewal and barrier support with daily use.

How should I integrate this into my daily skincare routine?

Use it as your morning or evening facial cleanser: pump, lather, and rinse, then follow with your targeted treatments and a moisturizer. If you’re adding active serums or retinoids, introduce the product gradually and monitor tolerance.

• Step 1: Wet face and dispense 1–2 pumps into hands.
• Step 2: Gently massage into a lather; avoid harsh rubbing.
• Step 3: Rinse completely and pat skin dry before applying skincare.
• Tip: Use sunscreen daily while using exfoliating acids for photo-protection.

Who is this for: Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser is made for people with sensitive or reactive skin who want a non-abrasive, daily chemical exfoliant to refine texture, address uneven tone and maintain hydration. It fits into routines for combination, oily, and dry sensitive skin types, as well as anyone seeking a dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free foaming gel that won’t clog pores.

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​​