The buyer question · week of Nov 2 – 8

Best Salicylic Acid Cleansers Ranking

Picked by AI, checked by people.

The weekly chart ?

The top 20 products brands right now.

Product chart

Current race ?

This week ?

New #1: Murad Clarifying Cleanser, up from #2.

#1 in 5 of the last 19 weeks

1 debut1 back2 out

All 27 moves ↓

Tap a card for each AI’s place and the monthly check.

#ProductPlace by weekLast weekWeeks in top 20Top-20 weeks
  1. #1up 1 place since last weekClarifying CleanserMuradNew #1Last week #2 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#6
    2. Claude#8
    3. Gemini#8
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#11

    named by 4/6

    The card’s #1 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.410,441 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Score read from review videos3.3/5read from 3 videos · Oct 2026 ? 123
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 6 threads read · Oct 2026
    • Press2/3outlets recommend · 0 with more cons than pros · Jul 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Press · 3 publications
    • ByrdieRecommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • Good HousekeepingMixed · Date not savedOriginal
    • The New York TimesRecommends · Date not savedOriginal
    Owners

    6 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser Review (sensitive and combination skin)YouTube: Kimberly Gamble · 17.3K views · Oct 2018
    Search Google for Murad Clarifying Cleanser
  2. #2down 1 place since last weekAcne Control CleanserCeraVeAlso #11 Best Acne Treatments · #14 SkincareLast week #1 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#22
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemini#1
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#1

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #2 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.42,128 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 6 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    6 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Watch · YouTube ?

    NEW CeraVe ACNE CONTROL GEL & CLEANSER review | Dr DrayYouTube: Dr Dray · 375K views · Jul 2021

    Also in the top 20 of ?

    Search Google for CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser
  3. #3same place as last weekCLEAR Pore Normalizing CleanserPaula's ChoiceMonthly check: Passes the checkLast week #3 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#5
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemini#2
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#4

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #3 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Passes the check · buyers rate it highly ?
    • Buyers’ rating4.78,106 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 7 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    7 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Watch · YouTube ?

    CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser | Paula's ChoiceYouTube: Paula's Choice Skincare · 16.8K views · Jun 2021
    Search Google for Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser
  4. #4up 1 place since last weekSalicylic Acid CleanserThe Inkey ListLast week #5 · 16 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#4
    2. Claude#11
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#6

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #4 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.41,902 ratings · Oct 2026

    Watch · YouTube ?

    I tried the Inkey List SALICYLIC ACID CLEANSER for ONE WEEK! (better than cerave?!)YouTube: Matt Randon · 92.5K views · Aug 2021
    Search Google for The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser
  5. #5down 1 place since last weekEffaclar Medicated Gel CleanserLa Roche-PosayLast week #4 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#2
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#20

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #5 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.43,072 ratings · Oct 2026

    Watch · YouTube ?

    I tried La Roche Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser on My Acne Prone Skin for One Month | ReviewYouTube: Charming Chele · 23.8K views · Aug 2021
    Search Google for La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
  6. #6up 2 places since last weekRenewing SA CleanserCeraVeLast week #8 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#1
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#5

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #6 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.878,225 ratings · Jun 2026
    • Score read from review videos4.0/5read from 4 videos · Oct 2026 ? 123

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Derm Reviews: Cerave Renewing SA Cleanser | NOT SPONSOREDYouTube: The Budget Dermatologist · 463K views · Oct 2020
    Search Google for CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser
  7. #7down 1 place since last weekOil-Free Acne WashNeutrogenaLast week #6 · 19 weeks in top 20Monthly check: Fails the check: video reviews 2.5/5

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claude#4
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #7 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.119,716 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Score read from review videos2.5/5read from 4 videos · Oct 2026 ? 123

    Watch · YouTube ?

    HONEST NEUTROGENA OIL FREE ACNE WASH REVIEW! You won't believe what happened!!!YouTube: Nicole Lisa · 204K views · Oct 2018
    Search Google for Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
  8. #8down 1 place since last weekSalicylic Acid Daily Gentle CleanserCosRXLast week #7 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#15
    2. Claude#13
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#12

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #8 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.869,197 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Score read from review videos3.3/5read from 3 videos · Aug 2026 ? 123
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 9 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    9 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Cosrx salicylic acid daily gentle cleanser honest review | 3 months review | good for acne?YouTube: Skincare Li · 145K views · Oct 2020
    Search Google for CosRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
  9. #9same place as last weekClearing Skin WashDermalogicaLast week #9 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#9
    2. Claude#16
    3. Gemini#10
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #9 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.64,693 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Score read from review videos4.0/5read from 3 videos · Oct 2026 ? 123
    Search Google for Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash
  10. #10same place as last weekEffaclar Medicated Acne Face WashLa Roche-Posaynot checkedLast week #10 · 13 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemini#3
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#2

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #10 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash
  11. #11up 2 places since last weekSA Smoothing CleanserCeraVenot checkedLast week #13 · 11 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claude#1
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #11 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
  12. #12same place as last weekAcne Facial CleanserMario BadescuLast week #12 · 17 weeks in top 20Monthly check: Fails the check: video reviews 2.8/5

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#10
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemini#12
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #12 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Score read from review videos2.8/5read from 4 videos · Oct 2026 ? 123
    Search Google for Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser
  13. #13down 2 places since last weekOil-Free Acne Wash, Fragrance FreeNeutrogenanot checkedLast week #11 · 3 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#3

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #13 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, Fragrance Free
  14. #14up 4 places since last weekLHA Cleansing GelSkinCeuticalsnot checkedLast week #18 · 3 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 0/6

    The card’s #14 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel
  15. #15down 1 place since last weekOil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming ScrubNeutrogenanot checkedLast week #14 · 9 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claude#5
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #15 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub
  16. #16up 5 places since last weekContinuous Control Acne CleanserClean & ClearRe-entrynot checkedLast week #21 · 2 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#30
    2. Claude#7
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #16 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser
  17. #17down 2 places since last weekClear Complexion Foaming CleanserAveenoLast week #15 · 13 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 0/6

    The card’s #17 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.36,773 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Score read from review videos4.3/5read from 2 videos · Oct 2026 ? 12
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 8 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    8 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Search Google for Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser
  18. #18up 9 places since last weekEffaclar Medicated Gel Facial CleanserLa Roche-PosayDebutnot checkedLast week #27 · 1 week in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claude#3
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #18 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser
  19. #19down 2 places since last weekAcne Clearing WashPeter Thomas Rothnot checkedLast week #17 · 5 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 0/6

    The card’s #19 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Peter Thomas Roth Acne Clearing Wash
  20. #20down 4 places since last weekSA Smoothing Cleanser 2026CeraVenot checkedLast week #16 · 4 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 0/6

    The card’s #20 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser 2026

Dropped out of the top 20 ?

Show places 21–100Hide places 21–100
  1. #21Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial CleanserNeutrogena · last wk #20 11 wks in top 20
  2. #22Acne-Clear WashPeter Thomas Roth · last wk #34 0 wks in top 20
  3. #23Salicylic Acid 2% MasqueThe Ordinary · last wk #37 0 wks in top 20
  4. #24Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid ExfoliantPaula's Choice · last wk #72 4 wks in top 20
  5. #25Evenly Clear Acne CleanserNeutrogena · last wk #23 1 wk in top 20
  6. #26Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Daily CleanserNeutrogena · last wk #26 0 wks in top 20
  7. #27Sébium Gel Moussant ActifBioderma · last wk #25 12 wks in top 20
  8. #28The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% CleanserThe Ordinary · last wk #19 6 wks in top 20
  9. #29Acne Clearing Facial CleanserGlytone · last wk #44 0 wks in top 20
  10. #30Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing GelVichy · last wk #29 2 wks in top 20
  11. #31Normaderm Phytosolution Intensive Purifying GelVichy · last wk #60 0 wks in top 20
  12. #32Beste No. 9 Jelly CleanserDrunk Elephant · last wk #32 0 wks in top 20
  13. #33Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing GelClinique · last wk #31 0 wks in top 20
  14. #34Zero Oil Deep Pore Cleanser with Saw Palmetto & MintOrigins · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  15. #35Cleanance Cleansing GelAvène · last wk #69 0 wks in top 20
  16. #36Stubborn Acne AM Treatment CleanserNeutrogena · last wk #30 1 wk in top 20
  17. #37Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Foam 2026Clinique · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  18. #38ClearCalm Clarifying Clay CleanserRen Clean Skincare · last wk #45 0 wks in top 20
  19. #39PRO Oil Absorbing MoisturizerCetaphil · last wk #38 0 wks in top 20
  20. #40Gleanser + SA Non-Drying Salicylic Acid CleanserPrequel · last wk #41 0 wks in top 20
  21. #41Daily Deep CleanserDifferin · last wk #35 17 wks in top 20
  22. #42Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel 2025La Roche-Posay · last wk #24 0 wks in top 20
  23. #43EradiKate Daily Foaming CleanserKate Somerville · last wk #46 1 wk in top 20
  24. #44Stubborn Texture Acne CleanserNeutrogena · last wk #28 0 wks in top 20
  25. #45CLENZIderm M.D. Daily Care Foaming CleanserObagi · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  26. #46Clear Skin Face and Body WashAlpha-H · last wk #48 0 wks in top 20
  27. #47AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear FoamSOME BY MI · last wk #91 0 wks in top 20
  28. #48Solution Exfoliant Milk Jelly CleanserGlossier · last wk #49 0 wks in top 20
  29. #49Effaclar SA Medicated Cleanser Gen 4La Roche-Posay · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  30. #50Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Cleanser GelPaula's Choice · last wk #50 0 wks in top 20
  31. #51FAB Pharma White Clay Acne Treatment CleanserFirst Aid Beauty · last wk #51 0 wks in top 20
  32. #52Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser TreatmentKiehl's · last wk — 1 wk in top 20
  33. #53Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (Gel Cleanser line: Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser)Paula's Choice · last wk #53 0 wks in top 20
  34. #54Oil-Free Acne Wash 2% 2026Neutrogena · last wk #54 0 wks in top 20
  35. #55Oil-Free Acne Wash 2% SA RenewedNeutrogena · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  36. #56Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Cleanser Companion Gel CleanserPaula's Choice · last wk #55 0 wks in top 20
  37. #57Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser Gen3Paula's Choice · last wk #56 0 wks in top 20
  38. #58Oil-Free Acne Wash 2%Neutrogena · last wk #58 0 wks in top 20
  39. #59Acne Solutions Cleansing FoamClinique · last wk #22 8 wks in top 20
  40. #60Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser 2026La Roche-Posay · last wk #59 0 wks in top 20
  41. #61Acne Gel Wash (2% salicylic acid)PanOxyl · last wk #61 0 wks in top 20
  42. #62SA Smoothing Cleanser 2026 EditionCeraVe · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  43. #63Solution Renewing CleanserProactiv · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  44. #64Salicylic Acid CleanserThe Inkey List · last wk #85 3 wks in top 20
  45. #65Daily Care Acne Pore CleanserStridex · last wk #63 0 wks in top 20
  46. #66Acne Gel WashPanOxyl · last wk #62 0 wks in top 20
  47. #67Acne Foaming Wash 4%PanOxyl · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  48. #68Checks and Balances Frothy Face WashOrigins · last wk #66 0 wks in top 20
  49. #69Salicylic Acid Daily Cleanser 2026CosRX · last wk #65 0 wks in top 20
  50. #70Clear Days Ahead Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment CleanserPhilosophy · last wk #90 0 wks in top 20
  51. #71Maximum Strength Acne Pads Cleansing WipesStridex · last wk #67 0 wks in top 20
  52. #72Oil-Free Acne Wash Cream CleanserNeutrogena · last wk #47 0 wks in top 20
  53. #73Rainbath Refreshing Body Wash Acne TreatmentNeutrogena · last wk #70 0 wks in top 20
  54. #74Effaclar Medicated Gel Acne CleanserLa Roche-Posay · last wk #74 0 wks in top 20
  55. #75Salicylic Acid Cleanser 2026The Inkey List · last wk #71 0 wks in top 20
  56. #76AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ProMurad · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  57. #772% BHA Pore Clarifying CleanserPaula's Choice · last wk #76 0 wks in top 20
  58. #78Acne Clearing Gel CleanserDifferin · last wk #77 0 wks in top 20
  59. #79Vinopure Pore Purifying Gel CleanserCaudalie · last wk #79 0 wks in top 20
  60. #80Maximum Strength Acne Face WashStridex · last wk #80 0 wks in top 20
  61. #81Maximum Strength PadsStridex · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  62. #822% BHA Pore-Reducing Toner CleanserPaula's Choice · last wk #81 0 wks in top 20
  63. #83Daily Deep Cleanser with Benzoyl PeroxideDifferin · last wk #82 0 wks in top 20
  64. #84Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser ProMurad · last wk #83 0 wks in top 20
  65. #85Beta Hydroxy Acid Cleanser 2026The Inkey List · last wk #33 0 wks in top 20
  66. #86Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser 2026Paula's Choice · last wk #84 0 wks in top 20
  67. #87Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser 2025Paula's Choice · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  68. #88Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink GrapefruitNeutrogena · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  69. #89Beta Hydroxy Acid Cleanser LatestThe Inkey List · last wk — 2 wks in top 20
  70. #90Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser 2026CosRX · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  71. #91Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser (2.0)CosRX · last wk #93 0 wks in top 20
  72. #92Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser 2026Kiehl's · last wk #92 0 wks in top 20
  73. #93EradiKate Daily CleanserKate Somerville · last wk — 1 wk in top 20
  74. #94Clear Genius Clarifying Gel CleanserBliss · last wk #89 0 wks in top 20
  75. #952% BHA Liquid Exfoliant CleanserPaula's Choice · last wk #94 0 wks in top 20
  76. #96Salicylic Acid Gel Cleanser 2%Naturium · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  77. #97Acne+ 2% BHA CleanserSkinfix · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  78. #98Peach Slices Acne Clarifying CleanserPeach Slices · last wk #98 3 wks in top 20
  79. #99Daily MicrofoliantDermalogica · last wk #97 0 wks in top 20
  80. #100Salicylic Acid Gel CleanserNaturium · last wk #99 0 wks in top 20

Brand chart

Current race ?

This week ?

CeraVe holds #1.

#1 in 19 of the last 19 weeks

All 16 moves ↓

Tap a card for its products here, its price tier and other charts.

#BrandPlace by weekLast weekWeeks in top 20Top-20 weeks
  1. #1same place as last weekCeraVeModels here: #2 Acne Control Cleanser · #6 Renewing SA Cleanser · +3Last week #1 · 19 weeks in top 20

    CeraVe products here ?

    5 products in the top 100 · 4 in the top 20

    1. #2 Acne Control CleanserBuyers’ rating 4.4 · 2.1K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #6 Renewing SA CleanserBuyers’ rating 4.8 · 78.2K ratings · Jun 2026
    3. #11 SA Smoothing Cleansernot checked
    4. #20 SA Smoothing Cleanser 2026not checked
    5. #62 SA Smoothing Cleanser 2026 Editionbelow the top 20

    Where CeraVe is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for CeraVe salicylic acid cleansers
  2. #2same place as last weekLa Roche-PosayModels here: #5 Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser · #10 Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash · +5Last week #2 · 19 weeks in top 20

    La Roche-Posay products here ?

    7 products in the top 100 · 3 in the top 20

    1. #5 Effaclar Medicated Gel CleanserBuyers’ rating 4.4 · 3.1K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #10 Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Washnot checked
    3. #18 Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleansernot checked
    4. #42 Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel 2025below the top 20
    5. #49 Effaclar SA Medicated Cleanser Gen 4below the top 20

    Where La Roche-Posay is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for La Roche-Posay salicylic acid cleansers
  3. #3same place as last weekNeutrogenaModels here: #7 Oil-Free Acne Wash · #13 Oil-Free Acne Wash, Fragrance Free · +12Last week #3 · 19 weeks in top 20

    Neutrogena products here ?

    14 products in the top 100 · 3 in the top 20

    1. #7 Oil-Free Acne WashFails the check: video 2.5/5
    2. #13 Oil-Free Acne Wash, Fragrance Freenot checked
    3. #15 Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrubnot checked
    4. #21 Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleanserbelow the top 20
    5. #25 Evenly Clear Acne Cleanserbelow the top 20

    Where Neutrogena is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Neutrogena salicylic acid cleansers
  4. #4same place as last weekPaula's ChoiceModels here: #3 CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser · #24 Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant · +9Last week #4 · 19 weeks in top 20

    Paula's Choice products here ?

    11 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #3 CLEAR Pore Normalizing CleanserPasses the check: buyers 4.7★
    2. #24 Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliantbelow the top 20
    3. #50 Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Cleanser Gelbelow the top 20
    4. #53 Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (Gel Cleanser line: Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser)below the top 20
    5. #56 Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Cleanser Companion Gel Cleanserbelow the top 20

    Where Paula's Choice is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Paula's Choice salicylic acid cleansers
  5. #5same place as last weekMuradModels here: #1 Clarifying Cleanser · #76 AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser Pro · +1Last week #5 · 19 weeks in top 20

    Murad products here ?

    3 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #1 Clarifying CleanserBuyers’ rating 4.4 · 10.4K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #76 AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser Probelow the top 20
    3. #84 Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser Probelow the top 20

    Where Murad is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Murad salicylic acid cleansers
  6. #6same place as last weekThe Inkey ListModels here: #4 Salicylic Acid Cleanser · #64 Salicylic Acid Cleanser · +3Last week #6 · 19 weeks in top 20

    The Inkey List products here ?

    5 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #4 Salicylic Acid CleanserBuyers’ rating 4.4 · 1.9K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #64 Salicylic Acid Cleanserbelow the top 20
    3. #75 Salicylic Acid Cleanser 2026below the top 20
    4. #85 Beta Hydroxy Acid Cleanser 2026below the top 20
    5. #89 Beta Hydroxy Acid Cleanser Latestbelow the top 20

    Where The Inkey List is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for The Inkey List salicylic acid cleansers
  7. #7same place as last weekCosRXModels here: #8 Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser · #69 Salicylic Acid Daily Cleanser 2026 · +2Last week #7 · 19 weeks in top 20

    CosRX products here ?

    4 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #8 Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle CleanserBuyers’ rating 4.8 · 69.2K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #69 Salicylic Acid Daily Cleanser 2026below the top 20
    3. #90 Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser 2026below the top 20
    4. #91 Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser (2.0)below the top 20

    Where CosRX is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for CosRX salicylic acid cleansers
  8. #8same place as last weekDermalogicaModels here: #9 Clearing Skin Wash · #99 Daily MicrofoliantLast week #8 · 19 weeks in top 20

    Dermalogica products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #9 Clearing Skin WashBuyers’ rating 4.6 · 4.7K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #99 Daily Microfoliantbelow the top 20

    Where Dermalogica is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Dermalogica salicylic acid cleansers
  9. #9same place as last weekMario BadescuModels here: #12 Acne Facial CleanserLast week #9 · 19 weeks in top 20

    Mario Badescu products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #12 Acne Facial CleanserFails the check: video 2.8/5

    Where Mario Badescu is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Mario Badescu salicylic acid cleansers
  10. #10same place as last weekPeter Thomas RothModels here: #19 Acne Clearing Wash · #22 Acne-Clear WashLast week #10 · 15 weeks in top 20

    Peter Thomas Roth products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #19 Acne Clearing Washnot checked
    2. #22 Acne-Clear Washbelow the top 20

    Where Peter Thomas Roth is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Peter Thomas Roth salicylic acid cleansers
  11. #11up 2 places since last weekSkinCeuticalsModels here: #14 LHA Cleansing GelLast week #13 · 13 weeks in top 20

    SkinCeuticals products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #14 LHA Cleansing Gelnot checked

    Where SkinCeuticals is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for SkinCeuticals salicylic acid cleansers
  12. #12same place as last weekCliniqueModels here: #33 Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Gel · #37 Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Foam 2026 · +1Last week #12 · 13 weeks in top 20

    Clinique products here ?

    3 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #33 Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Gelbelow the top 20
    2. #37 Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Foam 2026below the top 20
    3. #59 Acne Solutions Cleansing Foambelow the top 20

    Where Clinique is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Clinique salicylic acid cleansers
  13. #13down 2 places since last weekThe OrdinaryModels here: #23 Salicylic Acid 2% Masque · #28 The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% CleanserLast week #11 · 15 weeks in top 20

    The Ordinary products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #23 Salicylic Acid 2% Masquebelow the top 20
    2. #28 The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Cleanserbelow the top 20

    Where The Ordinary is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for The Ordinary salicylic acid cleansers
  14. #14up 3 places since last weekPanOxylModels here: #61 Acne Gel Wash (2% salicylic acid) · #66 Acne Gel Wash · +1Last week #17 · 9 weeks in top 20

    PanOxyl products here ?

    3 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #61 Acne Gel Wash (2% salicylic acid)below the top 20
    2. #66 Acne Gel Washbelow the top 20
    3. #67 Acne Foaming Wash 4%below the top 20

    Where PanOxyl is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for PanOxyl salicylic acid cleansers
  15. #15up 1 place since last weekAveenoModels here: #17 Clear Complexion Foaming CleanserLast week #16 · 9 weeks in top 20

    Aveeno products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #17 Clear Complexion Foaming CleanserBuyers’ rating 4.3 · 6.8K ratings · Oct 2026

    Where Aveeno is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Aveeno salicylic acid cleansers
  16. #16up 2 places since last weekClean & ClearModels here: #16 Continuous Control Acne CleanserLast week #18 · 5 weeks in top 20

    Clean & Clear products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #16 Continuous Control Acne Cleansernot checked
    Search Google for Clean & Clear salicylic acid cleansers
  17. #17up 3 places since last weekKiehl'sModels here: #52 Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment · #92 Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser 2026Last week #20 · 8 weeks in top 20

    Kiehl's products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #52 Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatmentbelow the top 20
    2. #92 Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser 2026below the top 20

    Where Kiehl's is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Kiehl's salicylic acid cleansers
  18. #18down 4 places since last weekDifferinModels here: #41 Daily Deep Cleanser · #78 Acne Clearing Gel Cleanser · +1Last week #14 · 19 weeks in top 20

    Differin products here ?

    3 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #41 Daily Deep Cleanserbelow the top 20
    2. #78 Acne Clearing Gel Cleanserbelow the top 20
    3. #83 Daily Deep Cleanser with Benzoyl Peroxidebelow the top 20

    Where Differin is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Differin salicylic acid cleansers
  19. #19same place as last weekCetaphilModels here: #39 PRO Oil Absorbing MoisturizerLast week #19 · 15 weeks in top 20

    Cetaphil products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #39 PRO Oil Absorbing Moisturizerbelow the top 20

    Where Cetaphil is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Cetaphil salicylic acid cleansers
  20. #20down 5 places since last weekVichyModels here: #30 Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel · #31 Normaderm Phytosolution Intensive Purifying GelLast week #15 · 19 weeks in top 20

    Vichy products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #30 Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gelbelow the top 20
    2. #31 Normaderm Phytosolution Intensive Purifying Gelbelow the top 20

    Where Vichy is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Vichy salicylic acid cleansers
Show places 21–100Hide places 21–100
  1. #21Stridexlast wk #24 0 wks in top 20
  2. #22Sunday Rileylast wk #21 0 wks in top 20
  3. #23Kate Somervillelast wk #22 14 wks in top 20
  4. #24Originslast wk #28 0 wks in top 20
  5. #25Naturiumlast wk #30 12 wks in top 20
  6. #26Biodermalast wk #26 16 wks in top 20
  7. #27Drunk Elephantlast wk #27 0 wks in top 20
  8. #28First Aid Beautylast wk #25 16 wks in top 20
  9. #29Peach Sliceslast wk #23 3 wks in top 20
  10. #30Eucerinlast wk #29 4 wks in top 20
  11. #31Glytonelast wk #32 1 wk in top 20
  12. #32Philosophylast wk #31 0 wks in top 20
  13. #33Avènelast wk #40 0 wks in top 20
  14. #34Ren Clean Skincarelast wk #35 0 wks in top 20
  15. #35Glossierlast wk #37 2 wks in top 20
  16. #36Skinfixlast wk #48 0 wks in top 20
  17. #37Obagilast wk #57 0 wks in top 20
  18. #38SOME BY MIlast wk #44 0 wks in top 20
  19. #39Prequellast wk #36 0 wks in top 20
  20. #40Biossancelast wk #39 0 wks in top 20
  21. #41Blisslast wk #43 0 wks in top 20
  22. #42Alpha-Hlast wk #38 0 wks in top 20
  23. #43AcneFreelast wk #55 0 wks in top 20
  24. #44Byomalast wk #33 0 wks in top 20
  25. #45Proactivlast wk #46 0 wks in top 20
  26. #46Dr. Jart+last wk #49 0 wks in top 20
  27. #47Biorélast wk #54 0 wks in top 20
  28. #48Caudalielast wk #45 0 wks in top 20
  29. #49Innisfreelast wk #50 0 wks in top 20
  30. #50Kiehl's Since 1851last wk #52 0 wks in top 20
  31. #51Peace Outlast wk #53 0 wks in top 20
  32. #52Ole Henriksenlast wk #58 0 wks in top 20
  33. #53Versedlast wk #91 0 wks in top 20
  34. #54Starfacelast wk #59 0 wks in top 20
  35. #55PCA Skinlast wk #42 0 wks in top 20
  36. #56Beauty of Joseonlast wk #77 0 wks in top 20
  37. #57Revision Skincarelast wk #61 0 wks in top 20
  38. #58Thayerslast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  39. #59Allies of Skinlast wk #62 0 wks in top 20
  40. #60Minimalistlast wk #63 0 wks in top 20
  41. #61SVRlast wk #65 0 wks in top 20
  42. #62Geologielast wk #67 0 wks in top 20
  43. #63acne.orglast wk #34 0 wks in top 20
  44. #64Youth To The Peoplelast wk #69 1 wk in top 20
  45. #65Good Moleculeslast wk #41 0 wks in top 20
  46. #66Herbivorelast wk #68 0 wks in top 20
  47. #67Yepodalast wk #70 0 wks in top 20
  48. #68medicubelast wk #100 0 wks in top 20
  49. #69Skin1004last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  50. #70Jan Marinilast wk #76 0 wks in top 20
  51. #71Hero Cosmeticslast wk #80 0 wks in top 20
  52. #72Alba Botanicalast wk #74 0 wks in top 20
  53. #73Image Skincarelast wk #79 0 wks in top 20
  54. #74Burt's Beeslast wk #56 0 wks in top 20
  55. #75Dr. Dennis Grosslast wk #51 0 wks in top 20
  56. #76Yes Tolast wk #83 0 wks in top 20
  57. #77Tata Harperlast wk #84 0 wks in top 20
  58. #78Tatchalast wk #81 0 wks in top 20
  59. #79Rodan + Fieldslast wk #86 0 wks in top 20
  60. #80SkinMedicalast wk #87 0 wks in top 20
  61. #81ZitStikalast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  62. #82Medik8last wk #93 0 wks in top 20
  63. #83ZitStickalast wk #92 0 wks in top 20
  64. #84Replenixlast wk #89 0 wks in top 20
  65. #85Humanelast wk #90 0 wks in top 20
  66. #86Bubblelast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  67. #87cocokindlast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  68. #88ELEMISlast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  69. #89Koparilast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  70. #90Lancômelast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  71. #91Oxylast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  72. #92Pixilast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  73. #93Saturday Skinlast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  74. #94Shiseidolast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  75. #95Typologylast wk #96 0 wks in top 20
  76. #96EltaMDlast wk #95 0 wks in top 20
  77. #97Pacificalast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  78. #98Garnierlast wk #60 0 wks in top 20
  79. #99Biorelast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  80. #100KraveBeautylast wk #85 0 wks in top 20

The monthly check covers products; a brand is marked “Passes the check” only when its products here pass. See the product check → ?

The AI panel ?

Where the AIs disagree.

Each AI’s place for the top 10 and each AI’s own #1, in its own answer this week. Rows in chart order; an empty cell: not named this week.well above the other AIs well below not named this week ?
Place on this chartProductChatGPTClaudeGeminiAI ModeGrokPerplexityNamed by
#1Clarifying Cleanser68811, well below the others4/6
#2Acne Control Cleanser22, well below the others113/6
#3CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser5243/6
#4Salicylic Acid Cleanser411, well below the others63/6
#5Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser2, well above the others20, well below the others2/6
#6Renewing SA Cleanser152/6
#7Oil-Free Acne Wash41/6
#8Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser1513123/6
#9Clearing Skin Wash916, well below the others103/6
#10Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash322/6
Each AI’s #1 further down this chart
#11SA Smoothing Cleanser, Claude’s #111/6

Further down: Grok’s #1 SA Smoothing Cleanser 2026 Edition (#62 on this chart)

The AI panel ?

Where the AIs disagree.

Each AI’s place for the top 10 brands: where it put the brand’s highest-placed product this week. Rows in chart order; an empty cell: not named this week.well above the other AIs well below not named this week ?
Place on this chartBrandChatGPTClaudeGeminiAI ModeGrokPerplexityNamed by
#1CeraVe111115/6
#2La Roche-Posay233225/6
#3Neutrogena344335/6
#4Paula's Choice522445/6
#5Murad6887115/6
#6The Inkey List4115565/6
#7CosRX15136, well above the others124/6
#8Dermalogica916, well below the others1084/6
#9Mario Badescu10, well above the others21, well below the others12, well above the others19, well below the others4/6
#10Peter Thomas Roth171/6

The monthly check · October 2026 ?

Where people disagree with AI.

11 of the top 20 checked

  1. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne WashFails the checkAI saysChart place#7named by 1 of 6People sayBuyers4.1/519,716 ratingsVideo reviews2.5/54 videos123
  2. Mario Badescu Acne Facial CleanserFails the checkAI saysChart place#12named by 2 of 6People sayVideo reviews2.8/54 videos123
  3. Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing CleanserPasses the checkAI saysChart place#3named by 3 of 6People sayBuyers4.7/58,106 ratings

See all checked products in the chart ↓ ?

Reviews by people · YouTube and TikTok ?

The reviews behind the chart.

37 review videos · one shown per product

4 more reviewsFewer reviews

The data behind this chart ?

What this ranking stands on.

From the AI panel 122 AI answers over 22 weeks from 6 assistants

From people

  • Buyer ratings434,255
  • Review videos42
  • Owner threads45
  • Press outlets3
  • Recall checks22

Before you buy

Questions buyers ask.

  • Who is #1 for “Best Salicylic Acid Cleansers”, and for how long?

    Murad Clarifying Cleanser is the #1 product this week, and has been #1 for 5 of the last 19 weeks. CeraVe is the #1 brand, #1 for 19 of those weeks.

  • What changed on this chart in the last four weeks?

    7 of the top 20 products were not in the top 20 four weeks ago. The #1 then was La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser; it is #5 now. Among brands, 4 new names joined the top 20.

  • Do buyers, reviewers, owners and the press agree with the AI?

    11 of the top 20 were checked in October 2026: 2 fail the check, and people place none much lower than the AI does. 1 passes the check: people back it.

Data as of November 2 ?

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New #1s, debuts and the picks that fail the check, from every chart. We will write only when there is news.