The most important ingredients

Salicylic acid

The only fat-soluble fruit acid (BHA) - can penetrate into the pores, where water-based acids cannot reach.

Function: Can unclog pores, clear blemishes and soothe irritated skin.

Niacinamide

Vitamin B3 - one of the most versatile actives, working on pores, pigment and the skin barrier.

Function: Can visually minimise pores, ease pigment spots, strengthen the skin barrier and ease redness.

Application

Dampen your face. Add a pea-sized amount onto your fingertips and massage the cleanser for 60 seconds in circular motions over face and neck. Rinse thoroughly.

Morning and evening use. The integrated salicylic acid particles gently exfoliate the skin with each wash - ideal for oily and blemish-prone skin.

Tip: Do not additionally combine with mechanical exfoliation to avoid over-irritation.

Frequently asked questions

Is a cleanser with salicylic acid enough as a peel?

As daily exfoliation, yes. The salicylic acid starts working during the 60-second massage-in time and dissolves blockages in the pores.

Those who want more intensive results add the Exfoliating Polish or the Complexion Renewal Pads 2 to 3 times a week.

Can this cleanser replace my daily peel?

Yes, for daily, mild exfoliation absolutely. The salicylic acid already starts working during the 60-second massage-in time and gently dissolves pore blockages, so that the skin stays smooth and clear.

Those who need more intensive results (pronounced unevenness, sun damage) add a stronger peel like the Exfoliating Polish or Complexion Renewal Pads 2-3 times a week. But the cleanser is the daily base - always morning and evening.

Why does this cleanser foam so much?

The foaming shows that several foaming surfactants are working - small molecules that bind oil and dirt and rinse them away. This is not a disadvantage, but rather desirable with oily and acne-prone skin.

The formula is still gentle, because it contains niacinamide and glycerin - these act soothing and moisturising at the same time. This way the skin is cleansed thoroughly without you feeling dried out, so that even oily skin doesn't produce too much sebum.

Is the Exfoliating Cleanser suitable for skin prone to dryness?

Not ideal as a main cleanser. The salicylic acid and the foaming are designed more for oily skin. If your skin is prone to dryness, the Gentle Cleanser is the better choice.

But: 2-3 times a week you can start with the Exfoliating Cleanser to clear blocked pores, followed by a rich cream or oil. This way you use the exfoliation benefit without drying out. On the other days you use the mild cleanser, so that the skin barrier regenerates.

How do I dose the cleanser correctly?

A hazelnut-sized amount per face is enough. Spread it evenly over the damp face and massage in gently for 60 seconds - this is the critical time during which the salicylic acid can work.

Don't rub for too long, even if it foams. 60 seconds is completely enough, so that you get the benefits of exfoliation without irritating your skin. Rinse off with lukewarm water and apply toner and serum immediately so that the moisture is locked in.

About the brand

ZO Skin Health was developed by Dr. Zein Obagi - one of the world's most renowned dermatologists, with over 35 years of research in Beverly Hills. His principle: the skin is not “repaired” from the outside; instead, the cells themselves are activated. Because collagen, elastin and cell renewal decline with age, ZO products work in a targeted way across different skin layers - as system skincare following established treatment protocols, not as a single product.

What others say

For every review we credit 100 Skinpoints, regardless of the rating.

  • 5 stars: 2 (100%)
  • 4 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 3 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 2 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 1 star: 0 (0%)
A
Anonym
Normalgröße

Ich nutze bereits seit Jahren mehrere Produkte der Marke Zein Obagi und bin sehr zufrieden damit.
Nach schwerer Akne in meiner Jugend mit umfangreicher Behandlung wie Antibiotika, Schälkuren und anschließendem Abschleifen der Narben, war meine Haut nach wie vor fettig, aber nun sehr dünn und empfindlich geworden.
Dann kam es während der Wechseljahre zum erneuten Aufflammen einer Altersakne und seither nutze ich mehrere Produkte von Zein Obagi. Dabei beginne ich mit dem Exfoiating Cleanser, der sich als gut verträglich und wirksam erweist. Die Haut wird gereinigt, Schuppen werden sanft und ohne Rötungen zu hinterlassen entfernt und zurück bleibt ein sauberes, frisches Hautgefühl. Die perfekte Grundlage für die anschließend aufgetragenen Pflegeprodukte.

Transparency & Mandatory Information

Ingredients (INCI)

Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Acrylates Copolymer, Jojoba Esters, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Mannitol, Cellulose, Spiraea Ulmaria Extract, Disodium Cocoamphoodiacetate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Tocopheryl Acetate, Niacin, Niacinamide, Caprylyl Glycol, Laureth-2, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Sulfate, Disodium EDTA, Ammonium Lactate, Salicylic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sodium PCA, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Benzoic Acid, Parfum, Chromium Hydroxide Green (CI 77289), Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool

Instructions for use

Contains salicylic acid (BHA). May increase photosensitivity - use daily sunscreen. Do not apply to open wounds or inflamed skin. Not suitable for children under 3 years. Do not use if known hypersensitivity to salicylates. Contains lactic acid (AHA). May increase photosensitivity - use daily sunscreen. Introduce gradually for sensitive skin.

Product Safety & Contact

NOVVIA GmbH ,

Am Lohmühlbach 17
85356 Freising
Deutschland
,

info@NOVVIA.de , +49 8161 96994-0