Switching from a product thatโs been your holy grail for years is never easy, but I did just that when CeraVe released their Blemish Control Cleanser. For the longest time, and I mean since it hit the shelves! I was devoted to the SA Smoothing Cleanser, which has a gentle exfoliating formula that always felt like the perfect fit for my blemish-prone, dry skin. But curiosity got the better of me when I saw the new launch, and after using it for two weeks, Iโm genuinely impressed โ enough to start considering it a potential new favorite.
First off, letโs talk about why I loved the SA Smoothing Cleanser in the first place. Its main active ingredient is salicylic acid, a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) thatโs fantastic for deep cleaning pores and gently exfoliating. It contains 0.5% salicylic acid, which was always enough for daily use without making my skin feel tight or dry. The addition of ceramides helps maintain the skin barrier, and I found it to be a brilliant balance between treatment and hydration.
However, the *Blemish Control Cleanser* takes things a step further, especially if youโre prone to breakouts like I am. It still has that all-important salicylic acid, but at a higher concentration of 2%. Now, if you have dry skin, a higher percentage of salicylic acid can be intimidating. I was concerned it might dry me out, but this cleanser surprised me. Itโs formulated with CeraVeโs signature ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II), which play a vital role in protecting and restoring the skinโs barrier. This helps prevent any moisture loss while still giving you the benefit of a deeper exfoliation.
Then thereโs niacinamide, another powerhouse ingredient in the Blemish Control Cleanser. Known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, niacinamide is a dream for blemish-prone skin. It helps reduce redness and irritation, which is something I often struggle with after a breakout. Combined with salicylic acid, it creates a balance where youโre targeting the root causes of blemishes without overwhelming the skin. Niacinamide also has the bonus effect of helping regulate sebum production, which is key for preventing future breakouts.
The texture of the product is lightweight and gel-like, similar to the SA cleanser, which makes it feel refreshing to use. It lathers up gently, and you only need a small amount to cover your face. After a couple of weeks of using it consistently, Iโve noticed fewer new breakouts and a more refined texture overall. The best part? My skin doesnโt feel parched afterward. Thatโs a huge win, especially for those of us with dry patches who are wary of anything too harsh.
What really seals the deal for me is that this cleanser feels like a treatment and barrier support product all in one. I donโt have to sacrifice moisture for clearer skin, which can be a common issue with acne-fighting products. Itโs not just about the active ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide โ itโs about how well-formulated the cleanser is to support skin health while targeting blemishes.
Though the SA Smoothing Cleanser will always have a place in my heart, especially for gentle exfoliation and smoother skin texture, the Blemish Control Cleanser is proving to be more effective for my current skin concerns. Itโs addressing the stubborn breakouts without compromising my skinโs moisture levels, which, for someone with dry, blemish-prone skin, feels like finding the perfect balance. As someone with a background in skin chemistry this is definitely a product I would recommend to all that need something stronger and find themselves strong enough to graduate from SA Smoothing!