CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser vs Acne Control Cleanser

So, you've decided you want to try one of CeraVe's cult-favorite, best-selling cleansers, but you can't quite figure out what the differences are? We've all been there, don't worry!

Come with us as we compare the CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser vs CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser side-by-side to help you decide which is right for you. Enjoy!

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CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser vs CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser

With both cleansers appearing practically identical on the shelf with their signature blue CeraVe branding, we're going to have to dive straight into their formulas to find any differences of note.

First and foremost, it's worth highlighting the fact that the Acne Control Cleanser and the Renewing SA Cleanser are formulated for completely different purposes.

Though both cleansers boast the same nourishing base of essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, as well as salicylic acid (keeps pores unclogged, reduces sebum production, and wards off zits) and niacinamide (helps visibly improve uneven skin tone), the Renewing SA Cleanser also contains:

• Polyhydroxy Acid: works by exfoliating dead skin cells on the surface, resulting in a more even skin tone and texture, and also help skin-care ingredients penetrate deeper into the layers of your skin, thus boosting their efficacy.

Whereas the Acne Control Cleanser contains:

• A higher concentration of Salicylic Acid: concentrations up to 2%* of SA are considered to be the optimal amount for everyday use as it won’t cause irritation or unwanted side effects.
• Hectorite Clay: a mineral-rich ingredient that absorbs oil, helping to mattify your complexion.

*The Acne Control Cleanser has a 2% concentration of salicylic acid, whereas the Renewing SA Cleanser has a 0.5% concentration.

This lends some clarity regarding the names given to the products. The Acne Control Cleanser is clearly formulated for, well, acne (and otherwise just generally treating oily skin). The Renewing SA Cleanser on the other hand renews the skin through gentle exfoliation, yielding smoother, less bumpy/rough, more even-toned skin with every wash.

Other points of note include: price, in which they are practically the same per fluid ounce; texture, with both the Renewing SA Cleanser and the Acne Control Cleanser being a gel; and both are indeed free from fragrance and nasties.