CeraVe
CeraVe Acne Control Gel
A 2% salicylic acid leave-on acne gel with glycolic and lactic acids, niacinamide and ceramides, for oily, acne-prone skin.
- Salicylic acid 2%
- Marketed as fragrance free
- oily skin
Who it's for: Oily skin (brand-listed) · Sold as fragrance free
- No scent flags recorded
- No sensitivity flags recorded
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Label answers before you buy
Manufacturer source · Label checked . Label facts only, not testing or medical advice: what these answers can't tell you.
Is CeraVe Acne Control Gel fragrance-free?
The brand markets it as fragrance free. The ingredient list hasn't been reviewed as a complete formula, so we can't confirm it has no scent ingredients.
Is CeraVe Acne Control Gel good for oily skin?
The brand lists it for oily skin.
Is the cetearyl alcohol in this formula drying?
No. Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol that softens and thickens a formula. It isn't the drying alcohol (ethanol) people try to avoid.
Does the formula list niacinamide?
Yes. The label lists Niacinamide.
Ingredient-origin notes (not vegan warnings)
- Glycerin: The name does not establish the feedstock. Plant, animal or synthetic sourcing requires supplier or manufacturer evidence. Origin reference
Ingredient-origin reference and limitations · How we record vegan evidence
Compare products using these exclusions · Inspect recorded ingredients · Matching rules and limits
How it compares
- Its label lists no scent ingredients, which is true of 15 of the 22 products in Dermatological Acne & Chemical Exfoliating Liquids with a recorded ingredient list.
Compare the facts that matter to you
2% Salicylic acid: Manufacturer-stated named active; percentage basis not independently measured. Compare exact forms and stated percentages.
What it is
CeraVe Acne Control Gel is a leave-on treatment for acne-prone, oily skin, applied in a thin layer over the whole affected area.
Key ingredients
- Salicylic acid 2%: The acne-fighting active ingredient.
- Glycolic acid and lactic acid: AHAs for extra exfoliation.
- Niacinamide: CeraVe says it may help calm skin and reduce water loss.
- Ceramides (NP, AP and EOP): CeraVe says they help restore the skin’s natural barrier and keep moisture in.
How to use
Cleanse first. Apply a thin layer over the affected area once a day, increasing to two or three times only if needed.
Who should be careful
It contains an AHA, which can increase sun sensitivity. CeraVe advises sunscreen, protective clothing and limited sun exposure while using it and for a week afterward. If dryness or peeling bothers you, cut back to once a day or every other day.
What the brand claims
CeraVe says skin looks noticeably clearer after three days, without study details.
Sources
- https://www.cerave.com/skincare/acne/acne-control-gel (checked 2026-10-23)
We have not tested this product.
What's on the label
| Category | Dermatological Acne & Chemical Exfoliating Liquids |
|---|---|
| Brand | CeraVe |
| Active ingredient | Salicylic acid 2% |
| Also contains | Glycolic acid, lactic acid, niacinamide, ceramides |
| When to use | Start once daily |
| Free from | CeraVe says oil free, drying-alcohol free and free of added fragrance |
| Key ingredients | Salicylic acid 2% |
| Brand says it suits | oily skin |
| Fragrance | Sold as fragrance free |
| Vegan evidence | Vegan status not confirmed. Evidence and limits |
| Worth knowing | No scent or sensitivity flags recorded |
| Full ingredient list | Water, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Triethyl Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Chlorphenesin, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Phytosphingosine, Benzoic Acid No specific flag recorded Context matters Scent ingredient Sensitivity consideration Linked ingredients are explained in our ingredient glossary. |
| Source | Brand's own product page Checked |
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Common questions
What is the active ingredient?
Salicylic acid at 2%.
Is it a spot treatment?
No. Apply a thin layer over the whole affected area.
Will it dry my skin?
It can; reduce how often you use it if so.