Neutrogena Daily Acne Facial Cleanser — Stubborn Texture, Fragrance-Free 6.3 fl oz, 1% Salicylic + Glycolic & PHA Exfoliation

Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Daily Acne Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free acne face wash that combines 1% salicylic acid with glycolic and polyhydroxy acids to help clear stubborn acne and visibly smooth uneven texture.

This dermatologist-developed formula targets acne-prone skin with a multi-acid approach: salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates pores to help with breakouts, glycolic acid (AHA) helps loosen and shed excess surface skin, and polyhydroxy acid (PHA) provides gentle, targeted exfoliation. The cleanser is oil-free and formulated without fragrance, parabens, phthalates, dyes, or sulfates, making it suitable for daily use in a straightforward morning and evening routine.

How quickly can I expect to see smoother skin?

Visible improvement in skin texture is reported rapidly with consistent use; many users notice reduced unevenness within about one week when the cleanser is used twice daily. Results vary by skin type and other products in your routine.

• Use morning and night for best consistency.
• Massage into wet skin for 60 seconds before rinsing to maximize exfoliation contact time.
• Follow with non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen in the daytime.

What acids are included and what does each do for acne-prone skin?

The formula combines three acid types to address different skin concerns: 1% salicylic acid to help clear and prevent breakouts, 2% glycolic acid to loosen dead skin and improve texture, and 2% polyhydroxy acid for gentler surface exfoliation. Together they support pore clarity and smoother tone without added fragrance or oils.

• 1% salicylic acid (BHA) targets inside pores and help reduce clogged pores.
• 2% glycolic acid (AHA) assists in shedding excess surface skin that can dull complexion.
• 2% PHA provides targeted exfoliation with a gentler profile for sensitive areas.

Is this cleanser suitable for sensitive or oily, acne-prone skin?

The product is oil-free and formulated without common irritants like fragrance, parabens, phthalates, dyes, or sulfates, making it a practical choice for oily, acne-prone skin. If your skin is very sensitive, patch testing and gradual introduction are recommended.

• Fragrance-free to reduce risk of irritation.
• Non-oily, so it won’t add shine to oily skin types.
• Free of parabens, phthalates, dyes and sulfates for a cleaner formulation profile.

How should I use this cleanser in my daily routine?

Use twice daily—morning and night—for optimal clearance and texture improvement. Wet your face, work the cleanser into a lather in your hands, gently massage over skin for about 60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly and continue with treatments and moisturizer.

• Apply to wet skin, lather in hands first.
• Massage for 60 seconds to allow acids to work, then rinse.
• Follow with targeted serums or a moisturizer; use sunscreen during daytime.

Who is this for: This cleanser is designed for people with oily, acne-prone or textured skin who want an effective daily wash with a dermatologist-grade acid complex. It’s a good fit for those seeking a fragrance-free, oil-free acne cleanser that combines spot-clearing salicylic acid with surface-refining glycolic and polyhydroxy acids. If you have very sensitive skin, consider introducing it gradually and consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

• Size: 6.3 fl. oz. (convenient for daily use and travel-friendly)
• Complement: pairs well with Stubborn Marks PM Treatment for improved acne mark appearance
• Packaging: pump or squeeze bottle (depending on retailer) from a dermatologist-recommended brand

Ingredients

Active Ingredient Purpose Salicylic Acid 1%..........Acne treatment Inactive Ingredients Water, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sorbitol, Glycolic Acid, Gluconolactone, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Acrylates Copolymer, Disodium EDTA