10 Best Salicylic Acid Cleansers in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Whether you're dealing with stubborn acne, excess oil, or clogged pores, salicylic acid is your go-to ingredient for effective skincare. Known for its gentle exfoliation and deep cleansing properties that fight acne-causing bacteria, it’s no wonder that salicylic acid is a well-loved ingredient among skincare enthusiasts.
In this guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about integrating salicylic acid cleansers into your daily routine. From understanding how it works to recommendations for different skin types, we've got you covered. What’s more, we've included insights from Dr. Angelie Chua, a board-certified dermatologist, to ensure you're making the best decision. Plus, with the convenience of online platforms like Lazada and Shopee, discovering the perfect salicylic acid cleanser for achieving clearer, more radiant skin has never been easier.
Quick List - Top Salicylic Acid Cleansers
QUICKFX
A Gel Cleanser With the Combined Power of Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Tea Tree Oil
Face Republic
A Skin-Friendly Solution With Calming Ingredients to Soothe Irritation
OXECURE
A pH-Balanced Cleanser That Keeps Your Skin Clear and Nourished
Céleteque
Achieve Calm, Happy Skin With This Hypoallergenic, Oil-Free Gel Formula
Dr. Angelie Chua is a dedicated Thomasian physician specializing in dermatology, with board certification from the Philippine Dermatological Society. She completed her residency at UST Hospital and is currently pursuing a fellowship in Trichology (hair disorders). Passionate about beauty, health, history, music, and travel, she fosters continuous learning and expertise in diverse fields. Dr. Chua is committed to providing exceptional care and staying at the forefront of dermatological advancements for the benefit of her patients.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- The Benefits of Salicylic Acid for Different Types of Acne
- How to Choose a Salicylic Acid Cleanser - Buying Guide
- Start With 0.5% Salicylic Acid and Gradually Increase Up to a Maximum of 2% to Reduce Acne Effectively1
- Avoid Comedogenic Ingredients to Prevent Further Breakouts2
- Combat Dryness by Looking for Moisturizing and Soothing Ingredients3
- Opt for a Gel or Water-Based Cleanser to Remove Excess Oil Without Stripping Your Skin4
- 10 Best Salicylic Acid Cleansers to Buy Online
- No. 1QUICKFX | Pimple Eraser Facial Gel Cleanser
- No. 2Face Republic | Calming Acne Salicylic Cleanser
- No. 3OXECURE | Salicylic Acid Acne Clear Facial Cleanser
- No. 4Céleteque | Acne Clearing Facial Moisturizer Gel
- No. 5Garnier | Bright Complete Anti-Acne 3-in-1 Cleanser
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Angelie Chua
- Is There a Recommended Way to Use Salicylic Acid Cleansers to Treat Acne?
- Do I Need to Patch Test When Using Salicylic Acid for the First Time?
- Will Salicylic Acid Cleansers Help With Fading My Acne Scars and Dark Spots?
- Will Salicylic Acid Dry Out My Skin?
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
The Benefits of Salicylic Acid for Different Types of Acne
Unlike other exfoliants, salicylic acid can effectively dissolve pore-clogging oils deep within the skin, making it effective for fighting mild to painful, cystic acne!
Salicylic acid cleansers stand out as a reliable solution for tackling various types of acne due to their gentle exfoliation and pore-clearing properties. If you struggle with mild acne, such as whiteheads and blackheads, salicylic acid works wonders by diving deep into pores to clear out the buildup of dead skin cells and excess oil.
Salicylic acid's anti-inflammatory properties come to the rescue for those dealing with more painful forms of acne, like papules and pustules. It soothes active breakouts by minimizing redness and swelling without over-drying or irritating your skin. Whether used as part of your morning or nightly skincare routine, using one tailored to your skin's needs can make a noticeable difference in managing acne effectively.
Salicylic acid is a great choice for many, but for severe cases of acne, consult your dermatologist for a more personalized skincare routine to target your specific needs.
How to Choose a Salicylic Acid Cleanser - Buying Guide
As salicylic acid cleansers gain popularity, it's important to carefully consider your choices to find the best fit for your skin. Dr. Angelie Chua and the mybest team delve into the essential factors to consider when choosing a salicylic acid cleanser that best suits your needs. For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below and learn more about their insights!
Start With 0.5% Salicylic Acid and Gradually Increase Up to a Maximum of 2% to Reduce Acne Effectively
Don’t be fooled by high numbersーfor daily use, 2% concentration is enough to see results! Anything higher could disrupt the skin barrier and lead to more breakouts.
Not all salicylic acid cleansers are created equal. When choosing a cleanser, opt for a formula with a maximum concentration of 2% salicylic acid. This level is strong enough to effectively exfoliate the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and excess oil that clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.
The gentle exfoliation provided by 2% salicylic acid promotes smoother skin texture and reduces the appearance of acne scars over time. Additionally, this concentration is suitable for daily use without causing excessive dryness or irritation, making it ideal for maintaining a consistent skincare routine.
Avoid Comedogenic Ingredients to Prevent Further Breakouts
Oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizers work wonders for oily skin because they help maintain essential moisture without clogging pores or exacerbating acne.
Prioritize products labeled as non-comedogenic, as these formulations are designed not to clog pores or irritate acne-prone skin. Comedogenic ingredients, such as heavy oils like coconut oil or mineral oil, and certain types of alcohol, can block pores and worsen comedones like blackheads and whiteheads. To avoid these issues, opt for cleansers specifically labeled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free" to ensure they won't contribute to new breakouts.
Beyond preventing pore blockages, a well-formulated salicylic acid cleanser enhances the skin’s appearance by accelerating cell turnover. This means that with regular use, it can effectively reduce the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a smoother and more even complexion over time.
Combat Dryness by Looking for Moisturizing and Soothing Ingredients
Dryness can lead to increased sebum production and worsening acne. Maintaining skin hydration helps balance oil levels, helping your skin treat and heal acne more effectively.
Salicylic acid is a great choice for fighting acne, but sometimes it can leave your skin feeling a bit dry. It's important to consider how these ingredients affect your skin’s moisture levels. To combat this, look for formulations with hydrating and soothing ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide.
Ceramides strengthen your skin's natural moisture barrier, while glycerin attracts and retains moisture to keep your skin hydrated, and niacinamide soothes irritation and reduces redness, particularly beneficial for sensitive skin. These ingredients not only counteract the drying effects of salicylic acid but also ensure your skin feels comfortable throughout the day.
If your skin still feels excessively dry or tight after cleansing, follow up with an additional thick moisturizer to add back moisture and seal in all your skincare.
Opt for a Gel or Water-Based Cleanser to Remove Excess Oil Without Stripping Your Skin
Lightweight formulas are ideal for easily reactive skin as thicker cleansers can feel heavy and contribute to greasiness, which may lead to acne flare-ups.
Salicylic acid cleansers in gel or water-based formulations are highly recommended for their effective oil-control properties and lightweight consistency. In warm climates like the Philippines, where higher temperatures and humidity can boost oil production, these cleansers are ideal for removing excess oil and impurities without drying out the skin or leaving behind a heavy residue.
Moreover, these cleansers are great at eliminating sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells that can build up and lead to clogged pores and dull skin, all while delivering a refreshing, cooling sensation to help maintain a radiant complexion.
If you have sensitive skin, opt for a milder, lightweight option like a micellar cleanser. It can just as effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup without risk of irritation.
10 Best Salicylic Acid Cleansers to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salicylic Acid Percentage | Non-comedogenic | Best For | Moisturizing Ingredients | Consistency | Net Weight | |||||
1 | QUICKFX Pimple Eraser Facial Gel Cleanser | | A Gel Cleanser With the Combined Power of Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Tea Tree Oil | 1% | All Skin Types | Propanediol | Glycerine | Butylene Glycol | Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract | Gel | 75ml | ||
2 | Face Republic Calming Acne Salicylic Cleanser | | A Skin-Friendly Solution With Calming Ingredients to Soothe Irritation | 0.5% | Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Oily Skin | Propanediol | Glycerine | Butylene Glycol | Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract | Gel | 100ml | ||
3 | OXECURE Salicylic Acid Acne Clear Facial Cleanser | | A pH-Balanced Cleanser That Keeps Your Skin Clear and Nourished | 1.50% | Dry Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin | Glycerin | Hyaluronic Acid | Water-based | 50ml | ||
4 | Céleteque Acne Clearing Facial Moisturizer Gel | | Achieve Calm, Happy Skin With This Hypoallergenic, Oil-Free Gel Formula | 0.5% | Oily Skin | Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract | Gel | 50ml | ||
5 | Garnier Bright Complete Anti-Acne 3-in-1 Cleanser | | Transform Your Skin With Rich Foam for Deep Cleansing and Brightening Benefits | 2% | Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin | Glycerin | Foam | 100ml | ||
6 | Neutrogena Deep Clean Acne Foaming Cleanser | | Combat Breakouts and Excess Oil With an Advanced Amino Micellar Formula | 0.5% | Normal Skin | Glycerin | Foam | 100ml | ||
7 | COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser | | A Beginner-Friendly Cleanser With 0.5% Salicylic Acid and 0.2% Tea Tree Oil | 0.5% | Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin | Glycerin | Butylene Glycol | Cream | 150ml | ||
8 | Klued 2% Salicylic Acid Gentle Cleanser | | A Gentle Yet Effective Acne-Fighting Addition to Your Skincare Routine | 2% | All Skin Types | Glycerin | Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract | Ceramide NP | Gel | 120ml | ||
9 | Kiehl's Blue Herbal Blemish Cleanser | | A Dermatologist-Tested Cleanser That’s Made for Oily and Easily Reactive Skin | 1.50% | Oily Skin | Glycerin | Propylene Glycol | Butylene Glycol | Water-based | 150ml | ||
10 | CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser | | Balanced Cleansing With Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid for Healthier Skin | 2% | All Skin Types | Glycerin | Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid | Gel | 237ml | ||
QUICKFX Pimple Eraser Facial Gel Cleanser
A Gel Cleanser With the Combined Power of Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, and Tea Tree Oil
With its moisturizing and soothing ingredients, this cleanser will leave your skin feeling refreshed. Ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin, it's an excellent starting point for any skincare routine. Use it daily, and you may notice clearer, less oily skin in just three days.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 1% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Propanediol | Glycerine | Butylene Glycol | Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract |
| Consistency | Gel |
| Net Weight | 75ml |
A Skin-Friendly Solution With Calming Ingredients to Soothe Irritation
Enriched with green tea, cica, and tea tree extracts, this cleanser soothes redness and provides a calming effect. Its low pH formula helps maintain your skin's natural balance. Plus, the soft gel texture leaves your face feeling clean, refreshed, and deeply hydrated, as users affirm.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 0.5% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Oily Skin |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Propanediol | Glycerine | Butylene Glycol | Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract |
| Consistency | Gel |
| Net Weight | 100ml |
A pH-Balanced Cleanser That Keeps Your Skin Clear and Nourished
Packed with oat extract to gently cleanse and moisturize, plus a calming blend of calendula, chamomile, and other botanicals, this cleanser nourishes and soothes. Kakadu plum extract, a rich source of vitamin C, brightens and evens out your skin tone. Customers love how gentle yet effective it is, making it perfect for daily use!
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 1.50% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | Dry Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Consistency | Water-based |
| Net Weight | 50ml |
Achieve Calm, Happy Skin With This Hypoallergenic, Oil-Free Gel Formula
Unlike typical acne treatments, this hypoallergenic, fragrance-free gel is gentle on sensitive skin. It promises smoother skin with regular use, promoting a calmer and more radiant complexion. Plus, it's made of derma-grade ingredients and developed in collaboration with dermatologists, so you can rest assured that your skin health is in good hands.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 0.5% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | Oily Skin |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract |
| Consistency | Gel |
| Net Weight | 50ml |
Transform Your Skin With Rich Foam for Deep Cleansing and Brightening Benefits
Discover the Garnier Bright Complete Anti-Acne Cleanser, a formula that combines the benefits of salicylic acid with the brightening power of vitamin C. This cleanser's thick liquid texture transforms into a rich foam upon application, ensuring a deep cleanse without stripping your skin. It effectively removes impurities while leaving a refreshing sensation after each use.
Formulated with a commitment to ethical standards, this cleanser is cruelty-free and dermatologically tested, ensuring it meets strict safety and efficacy criteria. Moreover, it combines natural ingredients with advanced skincare technology, making this budget-friendly option ideal for those seeking sustainable and effective skincare solutions.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 2% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin |
| Consistency | Foam |
| Net Weight | 100ml |
Combat Breakouts and Excess Oil With an Advanced Amino Micellar Formula
This face wash also includes 0.5% salicylic acid to target acne by exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Additionally, it contains IPMP (o-Cymen-5-ol), a potent antibacterial ingredient that fights acne-causing bacteria. With its travel-friendly size and soothing properties, buyers consider it a must-have for clear, healthy skin wherever they go.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 0.5% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | Normal Skin |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin |
| Consistency | Foam |
| Net Weight | 100ml |
A Beginner-Friendly Cleanser With 0.5% Salicylic Acid and 0.2% Tea Tree Oil
New to skincare and feeling overwhelmed by the variety of choices? This COSRX is perfect for beginners! It contains 0.5% salicylic acid and 0.2% tea tree oil, making it gentle enough for daily use. Botanical extracts in the formula exfoliate by removing dead skin cells and blackheads, promoting clearer skin.
Moreover, its creamy texture transforms into tiny bubbles that effectively cleanse away dirt and makeup, helping prevent new blackheads and whiteheads. After using this cleanser, your skin will feel soft, smooth, and refreshed. Buyers say it's a simple yet effective way to start your skincare journey!
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 0.5% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin | Butylene Glycol |
| Consistency | Cream |
| Net Weight | 150ml |
A Gentle Yet Effective Acne-Fighting Addition to Your Skincare Routine
Additionally, the formula is enriched with ceramides to strengthen your skin’s natural barrier. It also contains allantoin to soothe irritation, while zinc PCA controls oil and helps maintain hydration. Loyal customers rave about the refreshed complexion it leaves—clean, comfortable, and ready for the day.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 2% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin | Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract | Ceramide NP |
| Consistency | Gel |
| Net Weight | 120ml |
A Dermatologist-Tested Cleanser That’s Made for Oily and Easily Reactive Skin
Adored for its refreshing aroma, effective cleansing action, and ability to clear skin, this dermatologist-tested cleanser balances gentleness with potency. It's also free of parabens and fragrance, ensuring a clean and irritation-free skincare experience.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 1.50% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | Oily Skin |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin | Propylene Glycol | Butylene Glycol |
| Consistency | Water-based |
| Net Weight | 150ml |
Balanced Cleansing With Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid for Healthier Skin
In addition to its acne-fighting properties, this cleanser nourishes your skin with 3 essential ceramides that strengthen the skin's natural barrier, and niacinamide to soothe and alleviate irritation. Dermatologist-recommended, fragrance-free, and paraben-free, it ensures a gentle yet effective cleanse for a clearer, smoother complexion.
| Salicylic Acid Percentage | 2% |
|---|---|
| Non-comedogenic | |
| Best For | All Skin Types |
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin | Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid |
| Consistency | Gel |
| Net Weight | 237ml |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Angelie Chua
Now that you already know the basics about salicylic acid cleansers, let's move on to answering the most asked questions about this skincare product. Time to clarify not just your skin, but your doubts as well!
Is There a Recommended Way to Use Salicylic Acid Cleansers to Treat Acne?
Since salicylic acid can cause irritation especially if used in high concentrations, it’s recommended to introduce it to your routine slowly. For instance, most people can use it twice daily for face cleansing, morning and night. But for someone with sensitive skin, it may feel too harsh so in this case, use it once a day and then adjust to how your skin feels. Follow cleansing with a hydrating toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Do I Need to Patch Test When Using Salicylic Acid for the First Time?
It’s generally well-tolerated by most skin types but it’s recommended to patch test if you have sensitive or reactive skin. Apply a small amount of the cleanser to a discreet area of your skin (like behind your ear or on your forearm) and wait at least 24 hours to see if any irritation or allergic reaction occurs before applying it to your entire face.
Will Salicylic Acid Cleansers Help With Fading My Acne Scars and Dark Spots?
Due to its exfoliating properties, salicylic acid cleansers can help with fading acne scars and hyperpigmentation. However, if your main concern is fading dark marks, it shouldn’t be used as a standalone product. It's best to combine them with lightening ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and arbutin for more effective results.
Will Salicylic Acid Dry Out My Skin?
A salicylic acid cleanser with a low percentage (0.5% to 2%) typically won't dry out the skin, but its suitability for daily use depends on your skin type and other skincare products you use. If unsure about your skin's tolerance, start low and slow and gradually increase frequency and concentration as your skin adjusts.
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Salicylic Acid Cleansers
No. 1: QUICKFX ｜Pimple Eraser Facial Gel Cleanser
No. 2: Face Republic｜Calming Acne Salicylic Cleanser
No. 3: OXECURE ｜Salicylic Acid Acne Clear Facial Cleanser
No. 4: Céleteque｜Acne Clearing Facial Moisturizer Gel
No. 5: Garnier｜Bright Complete Anti-Acne 3-in-1 Cleanser
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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