For the majority of my life, I've rarely dealt with blemishes. However, after graduating from college in 2018 and starting my life in the "real world," something changed. Whether that be stress, anxiety or the fact that I love trying out new (and usually expensive) beauty products, my skin was not happy.
I started noticing more blemishes than ever this year. Even though I've only worn makeup a few times over these past four months in quarantine, I've been dealing with sporadic cystic acne on my chin, cheeks and hairline. I knew I was doing something wrong.
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After countless spot treatments, cleansing face masks and overpriced face washes, I accidentally came across the Clean & Clear Deep Action Cream Cleanser. I randomly had a travel-size version of the cleanser in my toiletry bag and decided to give it a shot. After seeing a difference in my skin in less than a day, I practically ran to the drugstore to buy a larger size!
Clean & Clear Deep Action Cream Facial Cleanser
The gentle formula has a creamy consistency that lathers nicely to provide a deep cleanse. After a few seconds of using the cleanser, you'll notice a cooling sensation that leaves your skin feeling refreshed and clean thanks to the inclusion of menthol and salicylic acid.
I usually use it in the shower, so I just put a small amount on my electronic face brush and cleanse my skin for about a minute. I've also applied it using just my fingertips and found it was just as effective.
The Clean & Clear Deep Action Cream Cleanser is designed to remove dirt, oil, and makeup — although I'd still recommend using your makeup remover of choice beforehand. It's also oil-free, so it shouldn't clog your pores.
According to New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the formula's salicylic acid makes it a great choice for breakout-prone skin.
"This cleanser has a low amount of salicylic acid which helps remove excess oil and dirt from the skin to keep the pores clear," Zeichner said. "It is a great option for people who have oily or acne-prone skin because it contains salicylic acid."
Although Clean & Clear says it's suitable for all skin types, Zeichner recommends people with very dry or sensitive skin to steer clear.
After falling in love with the product, I started doing my research and it seems like I'm not the only fan! It was launched in this spring of 1994 and has become a cult-favorite drugstore cleanser with hundreds of reviews online.
"I have been using this cream cleanser for almost 20 years. I remember my cooler, older cousin with perfect skin used it in high school, so I had to try it and I have been hooked ever since. I don’t even know if I have gone any span of time where I have not had this in my beauty routine," shared one Walgreens customer.
Another reviewer raved about its acne-fighting ingredients.
"I had really bad skin and nothing seemed to clear it, I tried other cleansers but nothing worked. Then, I got this product and after about a week, I saw a difference and it completely cleared my skin," wrote another Walgreens reviewer. "It made my skin look healthy, clear and hydrated. It also smells really good."
After using this cleanser for over a month, I definitely agree with the rave reviews. I can confidently say my skin has never felt so fresh, clean and blemish-free!
For more recommendations, check out:
- 7 of our favorite face washes that combat summer skin issues
- I got a smooth, frizz-free blowout at home thanks to this popular hair tool
- I can ditch my razor for good thanks to this fast-acting hair removal cream
- The best anti-aging products, according to dermatologists who use them
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