COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser: BHA Cleanser for Acne-Prone Skin

The Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser is COSRX's BHA-containing foaming cleanser, formulated to deliver acne-targeting salicylic acid through the cleansing step for daily use. BHA in a cleanser has shorter contact time than a leave-on treatment, so the primary benefit is gentle ongoing exfoliation and pore clearing without the risk of over-application. "Daily Gentle" signals the positioning: this is safe for every day, not a 2-to-3-times-per-week special treatment.

At $32.68 for 150ml, the pricing is accessible for a targeted cleanser. 150ml lasts 2 to 3 months at daily PM use. For users with oily, acne-prone skin who want consistent exfoliation support without spot treatments and daily leave-on BHAs, this cleanser alone can meaningfully improve skin over 6 to 8 weeks.

What It Does

Salicylic acid (BHA) at daily-use concentration penetrates pores during the cleansing window to dissolve sebum and loosen debris. The gentle surfactant base cleanses thoroughly without stripping. Tea tree or calming ingredients (varies by formulation) buffer potential irritation. The low pH keeps the BHA active and skin-compatible. Over consistent use, congested pores clear, and active breakouts reduce in frequency.

Who It's For

• Acne-prone and oily skin: Primary target. Daily BHA without over-application risk.
• Pore-congestion sufferers: Daily pore-level exfoliation from the cleanser step.
• Users who can't tolerate leave-on BHA: Shorter contact time = less irritation.
• Budget-conscious acne skincare: Single product handles cleansing and mild exfoliation.
• COSRX brand fans: Pairs with the full acne-care lineup.

Key Specs

• Volume: 150ml
• Price: $32.68
• Hero actives: salicylic acid (BHA), mild surfactants, tea tree/calming ingredients
• pH: low-acid for BHA efficacy
• Texture: gel cleanser, light foaming
• Fragrance: mild, tea tree

How to Use

On wet skin, apply a nickel-sized amount. Massage into a gentle lather, focusing on T-zone and congested areas. Leave on skin for 30 to 60 seconds (the contact time is where BHA works). Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer. Use AM and/or PM.

Avoid the eye area. For sensitive users, start once daily (PM) and add AM if well-tolerated after 2 weeks. Don't stack with leave-on BHA treatments daily; rotate them.

FAQ

Is it strong enough to treat acne?

For mild to moderate acne, yes, used consistently for 6 to 8 weeks. For moderate to severe acne, pair with dedicated leave-on BHA, benzoyl peroxide, or prescription treatments. The cleanser alone is a foundation, not a complete treatment for serious acne.

Does it dry out skin?

Less than harsh acne cleansers but can still dry if over-used or not followed by moisturizer. Use once daily (PM) initially; add AM only if skin tolerates. Always follow with hydrating toner and moisturizer.

Can I use it with retinol?

Yes. The BHA in the cleanser is rinsed off, so it doesn't stack irritation with leave-on retinol. Cleanse, then apply retinol (on dry skin). Use the cleanser AM if desired; retinol PM.

How does it compare to Paula's Choice 2% BHA?

Paula's Choice is a leave-on BHA, different category. This COSRX is a rinse-off BHA in a cleanser. They're complementary: use Paula's Choice as your leave-on treatment and COSRX as your cleanser for layered BHA support, or use either alone depending on skin tolerance.

How long does 150ml last?

2 to 3 months at once-daily use. AM plus PM users finish in 6 to 8 weeks.

Related Products

Pair with COSRX AC Collection Blemish Care Sheet Mask for weekly intensive. Browse the full COSRX collection and related Korean cleansers.