Paula's Choice CLEAR Salicylic Acid Face Cleanser — 6 oz Fragrance-Free Gel for Blackhead-Prone, Sensitive Skin

Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Facial Cleanser is a gentle, fragrance-free salicylic acid face wash that clears pore-clogging oil, makeup, and debris without stripping or irritating the skin.

This lightweight gel cleanser is formulated to target congested, blackhead-prone skin using beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid) to help dissolve impurities inside pores. The non-irritating formula removes excess oil and surface buildup while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. Because it’s fragrance-free and designed for sensitivity, it fits into most morning and evening routines as the first step before serums, treatments, and moisturizers.

How does this cleanser help reduce clogged pores and blackheads?

The salicylic acid (a BHA) works by penetrating oil-laden pores to loosen dead skin cells and debris that cause blockages. Regular use helps the pores appear less congested and can reduce the frequency of blackheads and blemishes over time. The gel texture rinses clean, so you won’t be left with a heavy residue that can contribute to new buildup.

• Contains salicylic acid to dissolve pore-clogging impurities
• Removes oil, dirt, and makeup without harsh scrubbing
• Gel formula rinses away clean, maintaining skin balance

Will this cleanser dry out or irritate sensitive skin?

Paula's Choice designed this cleanser to be mild and non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types. It avoids fragrances and unnecessary additives that commonly provoke irritation. If you have very dry or compromised skin, pair it with a hydrating toner and moisturizer to ensure moisture is replenished after cleansing.

• Fragrance-free, low-irritant formulation
• Soothing gel texture helps prevent tightness
• Works for a wide range of skin types, including sensitive skin

How should I use this cleanser in my daily skincare routine?

Use the cleanser twice daily—morning and evening—as the first step to remove surface impurities and prepare skin for treatment products. Apply to damp skin, massage briefly, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow with your chosen Paula's Choice toner, exfoliant, serum, or moisturizer; in the morning, finish with SPF 30 or higher.

• Twice-daily use: AM and PM for best results
• Apply to damp skin, gently massage, then rinse
• Layer treatments and finish AM routine with SPF

What other products pair well with this cleanser for clearer skin?

This cleanser complements targeted treatments from the Paula's Choice CLEAR line and the brand’s exfoliants and hydrators. Combine with benzoyl peroxide spot treatments or a salicylic acid exfoliant as needed for persistent blemishes. Keep the routine simple: cleanse, treat, hydrate, and protect.

• Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with benzoyl peroxide for active breakouts
• Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% salicylic acid for consistent exfoliation
• Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+ to protect and hydrate

Who is this for: This cleanser is suited for people with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who want a science-backed, fragrance-free option to reduce clogged pores and blackheads without over-drying. It also works well for those with sensitive skin seeking a gentle exfoliating wash to incorporate into a corrective skincare program. Ideal for anyone looking for a straightforward, reliable first-step cleanser that prepares skin for active treatments and daily protection.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 0.5%; Inactive Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer, Glycerin, PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Arginine, Butylene Glycol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Panthenol, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin