CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Wash – Maximum-Strength OTC Acne Wash Without a Prescription
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Wash – Maximum-Strength OTC Acne Wash Without a Prescription
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Why you'll love it
- maximum 10% OTC benzoyl peroxide without needing a prescription
- gentle creamy formula hydrates with hyaluronic acid and ceramides instead of stripping skin
- dermatologist-developed credibility reduces trial anxiety for first-time acne-treatment buyers
- dual face-and-body use simplifies routine and consolidates product spend
- fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic formula reassures sensitive and reactive skin
- FSA/HSA eligibility makes it more affordable as a recurring purchase
Perfect for
- twice-daily face cleansing to clear pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads
- body wash in the shower to treat back, chest, and shoulder breakouts
- post-workout or post-sport cleansing to prevent sweat-triggered breakouts
- starter treatment for someone moving up from lower-strength benzoyl peroxide washes
- preventive daily wash for acne-prone skin during humid or high-sweat seasons
10% Benzoyl Peroxide Maximum Strength Acne Face & Body Wash
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Wash with 10% Benzoyl Peroxide helps to clear face and body acne while leaving the skin soft and comfortable.
This cleanser has the highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide available without a prescription and leaves the skin looking clarified.
How to Use
Wet skin with lukewarm water. Massage a dime-size amount of Acne Foaming Cream Wash into skin in a gentle circular motion. Rinse.
Complete your skincare routine with your favorite CeraVe moisturizer and sunscreen. Can be also used with acne patches.
Excessive drying of the skin may occur. Start with one application daily, then gradually increase to two times daily if needed or as directed by a doctor.
If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day.
If going outside, apply sunscreen after using this product. If irritation or sensitivity develops, stop use of both products or ask a doctor.
Developed with Dermatologists
All CeraVe products are developed with dermatologists.
Acne Foaming Cream Wash with 10% Benzoyl Peroxide is formulated without fragrance and paraben It is non-comedogenic and suitable for acne prone skin.
10% Benzoyl Peroxide, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Ceramides
10% Benzoyl Peroxide helps to clear and treat acne by cleansing skin's surface of excess oil & impurities while penetrating deep into pores to treat active breakouts. Clear skin of whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, pimples, and pustules. Benzoyl Peroxide works to minimize the bacteria that plays a role in acne breakouts
Hyaluronic Acid helps retain skin’s natural moisture.
Niacinamide helps calm the skin.
Ceramides are naturally found in your skin and play a vital role in helping your skin protect you. They help fill in the gaps between your skin cells so your skin can seal in moisture and seal out impurities.
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The CeraVe story began in 2005 after experts noticed that many skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and dry skin all had one thing in common: a compromised skin barrier. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe offers a complete line of skincare & haircare products that contain three essential ceramides enhanced with a revolutionary delivery system to help restore the skin & scalp's natural protective barrier.
Product Information
[ 10% BENZOYL PEROXIDE BODY & FACE WASH ] Maximum strength benzoyl peroxide is clinically tested to clear, treat, and help prevent acne. This acne body wash and face cleanser gently removes dirt and excess oil without skin feeling stripped of moisture.
[ GENTLE FOAMING ACNE CLEANSER ] This gentle body & facial cleanser dispenses as a soothing creamy texture and transforms into a light foam. Formulated with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to leave skin feeling comfortable, smooth and looking clarified.
[ CLARIFYING ACNE WASH ] This benzoyl peroxide wash helps clear pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads from skin's surface and helps prevent new acne from forming & allows skin to heal.
[ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and can become damaged with sun exposure. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
[ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more. FSA Eligible & HSA Eligible
Developed with dermatologists, this lightly foaming, creamy face and body wash is formulated with maximum OTC strength 10% benzoyl peroxide to help clear face and body acne while leaving the skin soft and comfortable. This gentle, yet effective wash contains the highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide available without a prescription to treat acne without disrupting skin’s protective barrier. The formula feels gentle on skin, and skin is left feeling comfortable, smooth and looking clarified.
• Non-comedogenic
• Paraben-free
• Fragrance-free
• Suitable for acne prone skin
Key Ingredients:
• 10% Benzoyl Peroxide: Maximum OTC strength 10% Benzoyl Peroxide clears acne pimples and blackheads and helps prevent new acne from forming.
• Ceramides: Essential for healthy skin, ceramides are critical components of the skin’s natural moisture barrier
• Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient attracts hydration to the skin’s surface and helps the skin retain moisture
• Niacinamide: Known to help calm the skin
How to Use:
• Apply a dime-size amount to damp skin and gently massage, avoiding the eye area
• Rinse well
• Use acne face wash on entire affected area one to two times daily
• Because excessive drying of the skin may occur, start with one application daily, then gradually increase to two times daily if needed or as directed by a doctor
• If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once a day or every other day
• If going outside, apply sunscreen after using this product. If irritation or sensitivity develops, stop use of both products or ask a doctor
Features & Specs
Scent Name: Fragrance Free
Skin Type: Acne Prone Skin, Oily
Product Benefits: Acne Prevention
Active Ingredients: 10% Benzoyl Peroxide, glycolic_acid
Item Form: Foam
Special Ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide
Target Use Body Part: Body, Face
Recommended Uses For Product: Body, Face
Package Type Name: Bottle
Frequently Asked Questions
Is benzoyl peroxide at 10% strength safe to use every day?
Yes, 10% is the maximum strength available over the counter and is safe for daily use for most people, though new users should start with once-daily application to assess skin tolerance.
Can I use this if I have sensitive skin or eczema?
The fragrance-free, paraben-free formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid is designed to be gentler than typical benzoyl peroxide washes, but those with eczema or very reactive skin should patch test first and consult a dermatologist.
Will this wash bleach my towels or pillowcases?
Benzoyl peroxide is known to cause mild bleaching of fabrics on contact, so it is recommended to rinse thoroughly and use white or older towels and pillowcases during use.
Is this product non-comedogenic, and does that mean it will not clog pores?
Non-comedogenic means the formula has been tested and shown not to clog pores, which is important for acne-prone users who are worried about making breakouts worse.
Does this wash contain any ingredients that could cause allergic reactions?
It is free of fragrance and parabens, two common allergens, but anyone with a known benzoyl peroxide allergy should avoid use and consult a dermatologist for alternatives.
Is this a safer alternative to prescription acne treatments?
It delivers the maximum OTC strength of benzoyl peroxide without requiring a prescription, making it a strong first step before moving to stronger prescription options under dermatological supervision.
How does this compare to harsher drugstore acne washes that dry out skin?
Unlike many traditional acne washes that can leave skin tight and raw, this formula includes hydrating hyaluronic acid and barrier-supporting ceramides for a more comfortable experience.
Is this product developed and reviewed by dermatologists?
CeraVe products are developed in collaboration with dermatologists, which adds credibility and reassures first-time acne-treatment buyers who may be hesitant to try a new active.
Can I use this along with other acne medications like retinol or salicylic acid?
It can be paired with some ingredients, but layering multiple strong actives can increase irritation, so it is best to introduce one product at a time and consult a dermatologist for personalized guidance.
Is there any risk of overdrying or damaging my skin barrier?
The ceramides and hyaluronic acid are specifically included to protect the skin barrier, which lowers the risk of overdrying compared to traditional benzoyl peroxide washes, though overuse can still cause dryness.
What is the biggest safety concern I should know about before using this product?
The most common concern is fabric bleaching, so rinse skin and surfaces thoroughly and use older or white linens to avoid discoloration.
Is this product FSA or HSA eligible so I can use pre-tax dollars?
Yes, CeraVe acne treatments are commonly FSA and HSA eligible, though shoppers should confirm with their specific plan administrator before purchasing.
Is the formula safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare provider before starting any new acne treatment, including benzoyl peroxide products.
How do I use this wash for the best results on my face?
Wet the affected area, apply a small amount, gently massage into the skin for one to two minutes to allow the benzoyl peroxide to work, then rinse thoroughly. Use once or twice daily as tolerated, and follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
How should I apply this to my back, chest, and shoulders in the shower?
Apply the foaming cream to the affected body areas, lather with hands or a soft washcloth, leave it on the skin for one to two minutes to allow the active ingredient to penetrate, then rinse completely. Use daily for best results.
Can I use this every day, or should I start slowly?
New users should start with once-daily use for the first week to assess skin tolerance, then increase to twice daily if the skin is responding well and not becoming overly dry or irritated.
Is this safe to use along with my regular moisturizer and sunscreen?
Yes, apply the wash first, then follow with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning to protect treated skin from UV sensitivity.
Can I use this product at the same time as retinol or other strong actives?
Combining multiple strong acne actives can increase irritation, so it is generally recommended to alternate days or use one in the morning and the other at night, and to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
What is included in the box when I order this product?
The package contains one 5 oz bottle of CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Wash with the active 10% benzoyl peroxide formula. No additional accessories are required for use, though a washcloth or hands are helpful for body application.
Will benzoyl peroxide bleach my towels, clothing, or pillowcases?
Yes, benzoyl peroxide can cause bleaching of colored fabrics, so it is recommended to rinse the skin and any surfaces thoroughly and to use white or older towels and linens during treatment.
What should I do if my skin becomes dry, red, or peeling?
Reduce use to once daily or every other day, apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, and avoid other harsh skincare products. If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
What is the difference between a benzoyl peroxide wash and a salicylic acid wash?
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation, making it effective for inflammatory acne like pimples and pustules, while salicylic acid exfoliates inside the pores and is often preferred for blackheads and whiteheads. Many acne-prone users benefit from alternating or combining both under professional guidance.
