CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser is popular for its salicylic acid, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid blend, which exfoliates, hydrates, and improves rough skin.
If you’re looking for similar alternatives, here are the 10 best dupes that offer comparable benefits.
1. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel
A deep-cleansing gel that removes excess oil and unclogs pores.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Zinc, Glycolic Acid
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Pros:
- Deeply cleanses and exfoliates
- Helps with acne and oily skin
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Cons:
- Can be drying for sensitive skin
Why is it a dupe?
It has salicylic acid for exfoliation and zinc for oil control, similar to CeraVe.
2. The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser
An affordable option for controlling breakouts and excess oil.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Zinc, Allantoin
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Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Helps with oil control
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Cons:
- Might not be hydrating enough for dry skin
Why is it a dupe?
It has salicylic acid for exfoliation and zinc to reduce shine, like CeraVe.
3. Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser
A gentle yet effective acne-fighting cleanser.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Panthenol
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Pros:
- Gentle on skin
- Hydrates while exfoliating
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Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
Why is it a dupe?
It contains salicylic acid for exfoliation and glycerin for hydration, just like CeraVe.
4. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
A drugstore favorite for acne-prone skin.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Chamomile Extract
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Pros:
- Affordable and widely available
- Fights acne effectively
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Cons:
- Can be drying for some skin types
Why is it a dupe?
It has salicylic acid to clear pores and chamomile to soothe irritation, similar to CeraVe.
5. COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
A Korean skincare cleanser that exfoliates without irritation.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil
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Pros:
- Gentle yet effective exfoliation
- Helps control breakouts
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Cons:
- May not be hydrating enough for dry skin
Why is it a dupe?
It provides gentle exfoliation and antibacterial properties, much like CeraVe.
6. Vanicream Z-Bar Medicated Cleansing Bar
A soap-free cleansing bar that helps with rough, bumpy skin.
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Key Ingredients:
Pyrithione Zinc, Glycerin
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Pros:
- Great for sensitive skin
- Helps with keratosis pilaris
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Cons:
- Comes in bar form, which some may not prefer
Why is it a dupe?
It has gentle exfoliation and skin-soothing properties, similar to CeraVe.
7. Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Foam
A multi-acid cleanser that promotes clear skin.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Tea Tree Oil
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Pros:
- Brightens skin and fights acne
- Gentle yet effective exfoliation
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Cons:
- Can be drying if overused
Why is it a dupe?
It contains salicylic acid for exfoliation and niacinamide for brightening, just like CeraVe.
8. Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
A premium cleanser with a mix of exfoliating acids.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid
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Pros:
- Offers deep exfoliation
- Helps with skin texture
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Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
Why is it a dupe?
It has multiple exfoliating acids, providing a stronger alternative to CeraVe.
9. AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser
A strong cleanser for fighting acne.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Benzalkonium Chloride
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Pros:
- Deep cleans pores
- Affordable option
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Cons:
- Can be harsh for sensitive skin
Why is it a dupe?
It has powerful acne-clearing ingredients, similar to CeraVe.
10. Revolution Skincare Salicylic Acid Cleanser
A budget-friendly cleanser that clears pores while hydrating.
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Key Ingredients:
Salicylic Acid, Aloe Vera, Glycerin
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Pros:
- Affordable and effective
- Hydrating formula
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Cons:
- May not be as strong for severe acne
Why is it a dupe?
It offers hydration and exfoliation, just like CeraVe.
Which One is the Best?
If you want an affordable option, The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser is a great pick. For gentle daily exfoliation, COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser is ideal. If you need a stronger exfoliator, Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is a premium choice.
However, Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser is the best overall dupe because it offers the closest match to CeraVe’s formula, balancing exfoliation and hydration perfectly.
