Most people have acne at some point in their lives. In some cases, it can even be impossible to avoid. No one is exempt from acne, regardless of their skin condition.
However, acne can be difficult to treat for people with dry sensitive skin. This is because most over-the-counter acne products are usually designed for people with oily skin, they can be too drying or harsh for those with dry or sensitive skin. Are the Cerave acne treatments the exception though?
There is some debate regarding whether Cerave SA Smoothing Cleanser and Cream treats acne because the brand uses ingredients that are effective on dry and sensitive skin.
But before we investigate it, it’s important to understand what each of these products is and what they have to offer.
Quick declaimer: as the owner of the website I have tracked down some of the products and services mentioned. Therefore, when using the links on this page to make a purchase I may get a small commission. Full Disclosure.
CeraVe SA Smoothing CLEANSER
The Cerave SA Smoothing Cleanser, which contains salicylic acid (a potent BHA) and barrier-restoring ingredients such as ceramides, helps replenish moisture and keep unwanted contaminants at bay.
It is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and contains antioxidant vitamin D.
Unlike harsh microbeads that can scratch your skin, the Renewing SA Cleanser offers gentle, non-irritating exfoliation.
Those with sensitive skin can use this cleanser.
In addition to exfoliating and smoothing your skin, this cleanser that contains salicylic acid can also remove oil, dirt, and dead skin cells while softening rough skin, all without leaving your skin feeling dry. It will therefore protect the skin barrier.
The cleanser can be used on the face and body as well as on acne-prone skin.
Mini update 🙂 The review is now live and you can check it here 🙂
Let’s now look at its cream.
CeraVe SA Smoothing CREAM
Designed for anyone with dry, rough, or bumpy skin, this cream smooths and exfoliates. If you have mild skin conditions such as Keratosis Pilaris or acne, this cream may be helpful for you. It can also be applied to dry or sensitive skin types.
*It has a rich, thick texture and a creamy consistency.
The Cerave SA Smoothing Cream contains Ceramides (Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP and Ceramide EOP), as well as Hyaluronic Acid.
*Is a superior and smoother cream than Cerave Moisturizing Cream.
*It contains both Lactic Acid and Salicylic Acid as well as Niacinamide, which exfoliates and brightens the skin.
The product is also enriched with Shea Butter, 10% Urea, Glycerin, and Cholesterol to moisturize the skin and improve its moisture barrier.
Because of the way this formula is put together, it’s non-irritating and does not cause side effects. Using it every day is completely safe, as you will not over-exfoliate.
CeraVe SA Cream provides moisture lock-in and helps maintain your skin’s protective barrier with three essential ceramides.
Moreover, MVE technology continuously releases moisturizing ingredients, so you stay moisturized all day long. Hydration lasts for hours after you apply it, helping your skin maintain its protective barrier.
The formula however is non-greasy, so it can dry out the skin more easily than usual.
Cerave SA Smoothing Cleanser + Cream
Skincare products from CeraVe are known for their gentleness, non-stripping properties, and effectiveness. Cerave SA Cleanser and Cream are both recommended by experts and dermatologists.
Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides, Cholesterol, Glycerin, and Hyaluronic Acid are the main ingredients. Both products contain these components.
For effective results, it is recommended to use both the SA cleanser and cream together.
It’s believed that they are perfect for dry, acne-prone skin.
Are these formulas effective in treating acne?
Cerave SA Smoothing Cleanser and Cream contains a chemical exfoliant for the skin. One study found it to be the most effective broad-spectrum, unclogging chemical exfoliant for the skin if used twice daily (morning and night) for 7 days.
Other studies found it to be an effective chemical exfoliant for the skin if used only once per day for 8 weeks with improvements in sebum production and skin smoothing. Both the studies that found it to be the most effective found it produced good results with no side effects.
Various studies, however, have found that these two treatments are not as helpful in treating acne as they are, and alternative acne treatments are preferred over these two.
Why is that?
These formulas contain salicylic acid, an oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is commonly used to treat acne and congested skin. Exfoliating with these two products is great for treating bumps, but it can dry out the skin.
Besides, combining salicylic acid with moisturising and hydrating ingredients, the SA Smoothing range offers a clinically proven formula that helps reduce dryness while restoring the skin’s natural barrier.
The only problem with this list is the percentage of salicylic acid. Cerave does not disclose that information. In the case of this product, it would be between 0.5 and 1.5% based on the effectiveness and location of the ingredient on the list.
What do they have in common?
As they were designed to be combined, they share most of the key components.
In addition to sharing salicylic acid, they each contain three essential ceramides that protect the skin barrier. Thus, both can be used on irritated skin.
The products moisturise deeply while working on the surface. This results in skin that is brighter, clearer, and smoother. The products contain 10% urea and 10% hyaluronic acid.
The products are both fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so any skin type can benefit from using them, and the results are impressive as well. Tests showed 94% of users had softer and smoother skin in just three days, and an improvement in skin barrier function was noted in just one hour.
Using the patented MVE technology, the active ingredients are released gradually throughout the day, which eliminates the unpleasant stinging sensation often caused by exfoliators.
Can they treat acne when combined?
Naturally, you should not anticipate results in your skin immediately after using these products.
Nevertheless, it can be a good option to consider since it has been designed to treat acne, especially if your skin is prone to acne. Don’t expect too much, because although it may work for some, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will work for you. Your skin may react differently, so beware.
It is certain that salicylic acid that is present on both products not only exfoliates but also softens and smoothes the skin, preventing it from losing its protective layer.
You can grab this trending combo here –> Cerave Ultimate Smooth skin bundle 🙂
As we have seen, these two products can be used to treat acne smartly and effectively. Keep in mind that you should not expect immediate results and that if the condition persists, you should seek consultation with a medical professional.
