e.l.f. SKIN Blemish Breakthrough Calming Water Cream — 1% Salicylic Acid, Lightweight Oil-Control Moisturiser

e.l.f. SKIN Blemish Breakthrough Calming Water Cream is a lightweight, water-based face moisturizer formulated to calm skin, control oil, and help reduce and prevent blemishes.

This non-greasy water cream combines targeted actives with soothing hydrators for oily and acne-prone skin. Developed by dermatologists and formulated without fragrance, parabens, or common toxins, it layers easily under serums and sunscreen and is suitable for morning and evening routines. The formula is vegan and cruelty-free, offering straightforward hydration while helping to clarify pores and even skin tone.

How does this moisturizer help manage breakouts?

The cream contains salicylic acid to help clarify pores and zinc PCA to support oil control—ingredients commonly used to address factors linked to acne. By reducing surface buildup and balancing excess oil, it supports a clearer-looking complexion when used consistently.

• 1% salicylic acid to help exfoliate inside pores
• Zinc PCA to assist with oil regulation
• Non-comedogenic formulation to avoid pore-clogging

Will it moisturize without making skin greasy?

Yes. The lightweight, water-based texture absorbs quickly and provides hydration without a heavy or oily finish. It delivers moisture to the skin surface while maintaining a matte, refreshed feel for combination to oily skin types.

• Water-based texture for fast absorption
• Hyaluron-like hydration from humectant ingredients
• Leaves skin feeling hydrated, not slick

What other active ingredients help improve skin tone and texture?

Alongside salicylic acid and zinc PCA, the formula includes niacinamide, N-acetyl glucosamine, and tranexamic acid, each chosen to support an even tone and smoother texture. These actives work together to soothe, hydrate, and help reduce the appearance of discoloration over time without fragrance irritation.

• 4% niacinamide to help even skin tone and reduce redness appearance
• N-acetyl glucosamine for added hydration and barrier support
• Tranexamic acid to help address uneven pigmentation appearance

How do I use this product in my routine?

Apply morning and evening after cleansing and any treatment serums. A small, pea-to-nickel-sized amount is usually sufficient—gently spread over face and allow to absorb before sunscreen in the morning or other nighttime actives.

• Use twice daily for best results: AM and PM
• Layer under sunscreen in the morning
• Combine with other targeted treatments as tolerated

Who this is for: This calming water cream is designed for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types seeking a lightweight moisturizer that hydrates without shine and includes blemish-targeting ingredients. It is suitable for anyone wanting a dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free, vegan product that supports clearer-looking skin while helping to even tone.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid 1% Inactive Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Niacinamide, Glycerin, Silica, Isododecane, Propanediol, Tranexamic Acid, Trehalose, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Tromethamine, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Phenoxyethanol, Cetearyl Alcohol,Capryloyl Glycine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic Acid, Acetyl Glucosamine, Sodium Citrate May Contain: Chromium Oxide Green (CI 77288), Iron Oxide (CI 77492