Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub – Dermatologist-Recommended 2% Salicylic Acid Daily Wash for Clearer Skin, 4.2 fl. oz
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub – Dermatologist-Recommended 2% Salicylic Acid Daily Wash for Clearer Skin, 4.2 fl. oz
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Why you'll love it
- MicroClear Technology delivers 2% salicylic acid deep into pores for proactive breakout prevention, not just surface treatment
- non-over-drying formula with cucumber and green tea soothes skin while still being tough on acne
- microbead-free exfoliating beads make it suitable for daily use without harsh plastic pollution
- dermatologist-recommended active ingredient gives clinical credibility over generic scrubs
- oil-free creamy texture fits easily into a twice-daily routine for visible clarity and softness
Perfect for
- daily morning and evening exfoliating cleanse to prevent breakouts
- treating and unclogging pores on acne-prone, oily, or combination skin
- reducing visible pimple redness and calming stressed-out skin after a long day
- improving uneven skin tone and texture as part of an ongoing skincare routine
- sweeping away excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells without over-drying
Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Power-Clear Scrub instantly clears oil, fights breakouts, and exfoliates. With green tea, cucumber and skin soothers, this creamy formula softens while exfoliating. Its breakthrough MicroClear Technology is scientifically shown to dissolve oil and help boost delivery of salicylic acid to the source of breakouts. With skin soothers, green tea and cucumber, sensitive acne-prone skin is left feeling soft and smooth instead of over-drying.
MAXIMUM-STRENGTH SALICYLIC ACID
Maximum-strength salicylic acid formula for acne-prone skin.
EXFOLIATORS AND SKIN CONDITIONERS
Face scrub contains exfoliators and skin conditioners to help smooth away roughness for clearer, healthy-looking skin.
#1 DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED ACNE BRAND
Formulated from the #1 Dermatologist Recommended Acne Brand.
CLEANSE
Try cleansing your skin of makeup, dirt and oil with Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub.
TREAT
Toner and serum can help prep and treat your skin.
MOISTURIZE
Apply your favorite moisturizer to hydrate your skin.
PROTECT
If you're prepping for the day, don't forget to apply sunscreen! We recommend using a minimum of SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays.
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Product Information
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub with 2% salicylic acid gently exfoliates and clears oil and dirt to help prevent breakouts and visibly improve skin texture, tone, and smoothness
Formulated with MicroClear technology that helps deliver salicylic acid deep into pores where breakouts begin, this exfoliating scrub is clinically shown to unclog pores and treat acne before it even appears on the surface
Infused with cooling cucumber, green tea, and skin conditioners, this daily face scrub helps minimize visible pimple redness while gently softening and refreshing acne-prone, oily, or stressed-out skin
This oil-free facial scrub is tough on breakouts but gentle on skin, and works daily to reduce acne, visibly smooth uneven skin tone, and help prevent clogged pores without over-drying
Use this gentle face scrub every morning and evening as part of your skincare routine for visibly clearer, softer skin. Neutrogena face scrub is made with dermatologist-recommended salicylic acid for treating acne-prone skin effectively
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub clears breakouts and fights acne at the source before it starts. This creamy face scrub is formulated with 2% salicylic acid, a proven acne treatment, along with soothing green tea and cucumber to soften skin and prevent over-drying. The scrub features MicroClear Technology, which boosts delivery of acne medication deep into pores where breakouts begin. Exfoliating microbead-free beads sweep away dirt, oil, and dead skin cells to unclog pores, reduce excess shine, and visibly improve skin texture. Ideal for daily use, this oil-free and dermatologist-tested face scrub leaves acne-prone skin soft, smooth, and refreshed—no matter what kind of day you’ve had.
Features & Specs
Item Form: Oil
Skin Type: acne prone
Product Benefits: Softening,Soothing,Exfoliating
Active Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, glycolic_acid, salicylic_acid
Additional Features: Exfoliating
Container Type: Tube
Scent Name: Green Tea
Target Use Body Part: Face
Special Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, MicroClear Technology
Skin Tone: Multiple skin tones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the salicylic acid concentration safe for daily facial use?
Yes. 2% salicylic acid is the dermatologist-recommended strength for over-the-counter acne treatment and is the standard used in many clinical acne products. The formula is designed to be used twice daily as part of a normal skincare routine.
Will this damage my skin barrier or thin my skin with long-term use?
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that works inside the pore rather than aggressively resurfacing the surface. When used as directed, it is generally considered safe for ongoing daily use, and the non-over-drying formula is specifically built to support that.
Are the exfoliating beads safe and environmentally responsible?
The formula uses microbead-free exfoliating beads rather than the plastic microbeads that have been restricted in many regions. This means you get the physical exfoliation benefit without the plastic pollution concern.
Is this formula non-comedogenic, and will it clog my pores while treating acne?
The product is labeled oil-free and is designed for acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid is itself a pore-clearing active, and the non-over-drying base is intended to support clearer pores rather than add to congestion.
Can I trust the dermatologist-recommended claim on the packaging?
Salicylic acid at 2% is one of the most commonly recommended over-the-counter acne actives by dermatologists. Neutrogena also formulates with input from dermatologists, which is part of why this category is clinically credible.
I have sensitive skin. Is this safe enough for me to use without a reaction?
Sensitive skin can usually tolerate 2% salicylic acid in a daily wash format, especially with soothing ingredients like cucumber and green tea. A patch test on the inner forearm or jawline for a couple of days is a smart precaution if you have a history of reactions.
Is this product safe to use while pregnant or nursing?
Salicylic acid is a BHA, and decisions about skincare during pregnancy or nursing should always be made with your OB-GYN or dermatologist. This product is intended for adult acne-prone users, so discussing it with your doctor is the right step.
How do I know this will not over-dry or damage my skin like older acne scrubs did?
The non-over-drying, creamy formula is specifically positioned as an improvement on older, harsher scrubs. The inclusion of soothing cucumber and green tea is meant to offset the drying effects that classic acne products are known for.
How does this compare to a generic drugstore face scrub for safety?
Generic scrubs often rely on larger plastic microbeads and stronger surfactants. This product uses microbead-free beads, a recognized 2% active, and a soothing base, which is a more controlled and clinically informed approach.
Is this safer for my skin than a physical exfoliator with crushed nuts or apricot pieces?
Yes. Crushed-shell scrubs can create micro-tears in the skin. This formula uses finely engineered, microbead-free beads and pairs them with a chemical exfoliant, which is a more consistent and lower-injury approach for daily use.
How does using this compare to using a benzoyl peroxide wash for safety?
Benzoyl peroxide can be more drying and is more likely to bleach fabrics. Salicylic acid works differently, focusing on pore clearing and oil control, and is often better tolerated for daily long-term use in a creamy format like this one.
I have eczema or rosacea on top of acne. Is this safe for me?
If you have an inflammatory skin condition like eczema or rosacea, it is best to check with your dermatologist before adding a salicylic acid scrub. The product is formulated for acne-prone skin and may not be appropriate as a primary treatment for those conditions.
My biggest worry is that this will make my acne worse before it gets better. Will it?
Purging can happen when introducing salicylic acid if you have hidden congestion, but it is generally short-lived. The non-over-drying formula and soothing ingredients are intended to minimize visible irritation during the adjustment period.
How do I use this scrub in my daily routine?
Wet your face, apply a small amount to your fingertips, and gently massage onto the skin for about 30 to 60 seconds. Rinse thoroughly. The brand recommends using it twice daily, morning and evening, followed by a moisturizer.
Can I use this scrub on my body, not just my face?
It is formulated and marketed as a facial scrub. Some customers use it on breakout-prone areas like the back or shoulders, but if you want a full-body acne product, a dedicated body wash is usually the more efficient choice.
Should I use this before or after a face mask, and can I use it with other actives?
Use it as the cleansing step in your routine, before serums, treatments, or masks. It pairs well with most routines, but if you also use stronger exfoliants, alternate them on different days to avoid over-exfoliation.
Is this scrub compatible with retinol, vitamin C, or niacinamide?
Yes, with smart layering. Many users apply this scrub in the morning, use vitamin C or niacinamide, then apply retinol at night. If you have sensitive skin, introduce one active at a time and space them out.
Will this work with my moisturizer and sunscreen, or will it cause pilling?
The formula rinses clean, so it should not interfere with the products layered on top. Apply your moisturizer and sunscreen after rinsing and patting the skin dry, and you should not see pilling.
What is included in the box when I order this product?
You receive one 4.2 fl. oz tube of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub. There are no extra accessories, applicators, or refills included. You may want to purchase a separate gentle moisturizer and daily sunscreen separately if you do not already have them.
Is it normal to feel a mild tingle the first few times I use this?
A light tingle can happen when salicylic acid first contacts the skin, especially if you are new to chemical exfoliants. It should fade quickly after rinsing. If you experience persistent stinging, burning, or visible irritation, stop use and consult a dermatologist.
How should I store the tube, and what is the shelf life?
Store the tube at room temperature away from direct heat and sunlight, with the cap closed. As an over-the-counter acne product, it is typically marked with an expiration date on the crimp of the tube; do not use it past that date.
What is the difference between a salicylic acid scrub and a benzoyl peroxide wash?
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that works inside the pore to dissolve oil and dead skin, which makes it well-suited for blackheads, whiteheads, and oily skin. Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent better suited for inflamed, red pimples. The right choice depends on the type of acne you are treating.
How does this product differ from other Neutrogena acne washes like the Pink Grapefruit or Oil-Free Acne Wash?
This scrub adds microbead-free physical exfoliation and MicroClear Technology to a 2% salicylic acid base, along with cucumber and green tea for soothing. The Pink Grapefruit wash is more about morning energizing, and the standard Oil-Free Acne Wash is a creamy cleanser without the physical exfoliant. Choose based on whether you want exfoliation and a calming profile.
