Neutrogena Evenly Clear Multi-Acid Acne Exfoliant Serum, 1 fl oz — Salicylic + Mandelic for Clearer, Smoother Skin

Neutrogena Evenly Clear Acne Exfoliant is a lightweight multi-acid serum formulated with salicylic, mandelic, and PHA acids to reduce breakouts and visibly fade post-acne marks while smoothing skin texture.

This 1 fl. oz treatment blends 0.5% salicylic acid with 2.5% mandelic acid and 2.5% polyhydroxy acids (PHA) to gently exfoliate surface skin, clarify pores, and help even the appearance of tone and texture. The non-comedogenic, fragrance- and dye-free formula absorbs quickly and is intended for daily use on oily, acne-prone, and combination skin. Clinical testing reported measurable improvements in breakout counts and visible skin clarity over regular use.

How does this serum help reduce breakouts?

The formula uses 0.5% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates and helps clear pore buildup associated with acne. By combining salicylic acid with mandelic acid and PHA, the product delivers layered exfoliation that addresses both surface dead skin and pore congestion, helping reduce the frequency of blemishes when used consistently.

• 0.5% salicylic acid targets and helps clear clogged pores
• 2.5% mandelic acid removes dead surface skin for smoother texture
• 2.5% PHA provides gentle exfoliation and improves overall clarity
• Non-comedogenic formula won’t block pores

What visible changes can I expect and on what timeline?

Results depend on skin and routine, but clinical data showed many users saw reduced breakouts within two weeks and broader visible improvement over three months. The serum also reduced visible redness from pimples within one week in clinical testing, while texture smoothing and fading of post-acne marks typically appear over continued use.

• Reduction in breakouts reported by 77% of subjects after two weeks
• Visible improvement in skin appearance reported by 90% after 12 weeks
• Visible decrease in redness from pimples observed in one week in testing
• Ongoing use helps fade post-acne marks and smooth texture

Is this safe for daily use and which skin types benefit most?

The serum is formulated to be lightweight and suitable for daily application on oily, acne-prone, and combination skin without added fragrances or dyes. It is non-comedogenic and designed to exfoliate without over-drying, but those with sensitive skin should patch-test and introduce acids gradually.

• Appropriate for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types
• Fragrance- and dye-free to reduce irritation risk
• Non-comedogenic and absorbs quickly into skin
• Patch test recommended for sensitive or reactive skin

How should I incorporate this into my skincare routine?

Use the serum after cleansing and before heavier moisturizers or sunscreens. Start with a small amount every other day if you’re new to chemical exfoliants, then increase to daily use as tolerated. Always follow with sunscreen during the day, as exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.

• Apply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer
• Begin with alternate-day use if new to acids, then progress to daily
• Finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen in daytime routines
• Can be combined with hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizers

Who this product is for: Neutrogena Evenly Clear Acne Exfoliant is intended for adults managing oily, acne-prone, or combination skin who want a targeted serum that addresses active breakouts, surface texture, and the appearance of post-acne marks. It suits users looking for a clinically tested, lightweight exfoliating treatment without fragrances or dyes. If you have very sensitive or highly reactive skin, consult a dermatologist before starting routine acid exfoliation.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid 0.5%. Purpose: Acne Treatment. Inactive Ingredients: Water, Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Gluconolactone, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA