SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel

SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel is a targeted exfoliating gel cleanser formulated to decongest pores, smooth skin texture, and brighten the complexion — all in a single daily cleansing step. Featuring a conditioning surfactant and a 12% concentration of key active ingredients — combining lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA), glycolic acid, salicylic acid, glycerin, and sorbitol — this deep-cleansing gel removes excess oils and makeup while gently exfoliating the skin’s surface to refine the appearance of congested pores and reduce blemishes without drying or stripping the skin.

Formulated specifically for oily, combination, and aging skin prone to breakouts, LHA Cleanser addresses the unique challenge of skin that simultaneously experiences excess sebum production, congested pores, and the visible signs of aging. By combining exfoliating acids with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and sorbitol, it delivers effective pore-clearing action without the dryness and irritation that many traditional blemish-fighting cleansers can cause.

Skin Types

Formulated for oily and combination skin types, including aging skin prone to breakouts. Particularly beneficial for those experiencing congested pores, excess oil production, blemishes, and visible signs of aging simultaneously — a combination that standard cleansers often fail to address effectively.

Skin Concerns

Targets acne, congested and enlarged pores, discoloration, and visible signs of aging including rough texture and dullness. Ideal for those whose skin is prone to breakouts but also showing early to advanced signs of aging that require gentle, non-drying exfoliation.

Benefits

• Decongests pores and removes excess oils and makeup for a visibly clearer complexion
• Delivers even exfoliation to unclog congested pores and smooth skin texture
• Addresses breakouts and visible signs of aging simultaneously with a multi-acid blend
• Brightens skin and improves overall radiance with continued use
• Hydrating ingredients prevent over-drying, maintaining skin comfort during exfoliation
• Paraben-free, soap-free, fragrance-free, dye-free, and alcohol-free
• Suitable for oily, combination, and aging skin types prone to blemishes

Key Ingredients

• LHA (Caproloyl Salicylic Acid) — A lipo-hydroxy acid and the star ingredient of this formula, LHA is a lipophilic derivative of salicylic acid that exfoliates the skin, decongests clogged pores, and refines the skin’s surface. Its lipophilic nature allows it to penetrate the pore lining more effectively than standard salicylic acid, while its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help address the underlying causes of blemishes without causing irritation.
• Glycolic Acid — An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that works at the skin’s surface to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, eliminating buildup that can lead to dullness and congestion. Glycolic acid also improves skin hydration and helps stimulate cell turnover, contributing to a smoother, more even-toned complexion over time.
• Salicylic Acid — A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into the pore and dissolve the sebum and debris that cause congestion and breakouts. Salicylic acid refines the appearance of pores and helps reduce active acne, making it a cornerstone ingredient for oily and blemish-prone skin.
• Glycerin and Sorbitol — A duo of humectants that attract and retain moisture at the skin’s surface, counterbalancing the potential drying effect of the exfoliating acids. Their inclusion ensures that skin remains hydrated and comfortable after cleansing, preventing the tightness and irritation that can exacerbate fine lines and wrinkles in aging skin.

The Science Behind It

Aging skin prone to breakouts presents a unique and often frustrating set of skincare challenges. As skin ages, it experiences a natural slowdown in the cell turnover cycle and a gradual loss of moisture — causing excess dead skin cells to accumulate on the surface, clog pores, and contribute to breakouts. At the same time, many traditional blemish-fighting ingredients are highly drying, which can exacerbate the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dehydration in aging skin.

LHA Cleanser was developed specifically to address this dual challenge. By combining a multi-acid exfoliating complex — LHA, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid — with hydrating humectants like glycerin and sorbitol, it delivers effective daily exfoliation and pore-clearing action without compromising the skin’s moisture balance. The result is a cleanser that simultaneously addresses blemishes and visible signs of aging, making it an ideal foundation for a comprehensive skincare regimen targeting both concerns.

How to Use

Twice daily, apply a small amount of LHA Cleanser Gel to a wet face and neck using light circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat skin dry. In the morning, follow with a SkinCeuticals vitamin C antioxidant serum and broad-spectrum sunscreen. In the evening, follow with a SkinCeuticals corrective serum or moisturizer as appropriate for your skin type and concerns.