Sunday Riley Breakout Breakup Salicylic Acid Gel Cleanser for Blemish-Prone Skin — 1–2% Salicylic, Gentle Exfoliation

Sunday Riley Breakout Breakup is a non-drying gel cleanser formulated with salicylic and lactic acids to clear pore congestion and calm oily, blemish-prone skin without stripping the moisture barrier.

This cleanser blends chemical exfoliants with microbiome-friendly ingredients to purify skin, dissolve excess oil, and help smooth texture. Instead of aggressive foaming formulas, Breakout Breakup focuses on targeted pore penetration and gentle surface renewal so skin feels clean but not tight. Its formulation also includes soothing witch hazel and fermented pear juice to balance oil and refine the skin’s look over time.

How does this cleanser address breakouts without over-drying?

Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it penetrates into pores to help dissolve sebum and reduce surface congestion. Lactic acid provides mild, water-soluble exfoliation to even skin texture and support gentle cell turnover. The formula avoids harsh surfactants and keeps moisturizing elements so the skin’s barrier stays intact while impurities are lifted away.

• 1–2% salicylic acid helps clear pore buildup.
• Mild lactic acid smooths roughness without irritation.
• Gel base removes oil and grime without stripping skin.
• Soothing agents like witch hazel calm redness after cleansing.

What noticeable improvements should I expect and when?

Users typically notice cleaner-feeling skin immediately after use, with less surface oil and improved texture within one to two weeks. Pore congestion and the frequency of new blemishes may reduce over several weeks as consistent use helps prevent buildup. Individual results vary depending on skin type and concurrent treatments.

• Instant: cleaner, less oily skin after first use.
• 1–2 weeks: smoother texture from lactic acid exfoliation.
• 4+ weeks: reduced recurring congestion with routine use.
• Best: when used with a balanced topical routine and sun protection.

How should I use Breakout Breakup in my skincare routine?

Use it once or twice daily as the first step in your regimen—apply to damp skin, gently massage, then rinse thoroughly. If you’re also using prescription acne treatments or strong actives, start with once-a-day or alternate-day use to assess tolerance. Follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning.

• Apply to damp skin, massage, rinse; pat dry.
• Start slowly if using other acids or retinoids.
• Follow with a hydrating moisturizer to protect the barrier.
• Use sunscreen daily to protect freshly exfoliated skin.

Which skin types will benefit most from this cleanser?

Breakout Breakup is designed for oily and blemish-prone skin that needs oil control and gentle exfoliation without increased dryness. It suits people who want to target pore congestion and improve texture while preserving the skin’s natural microbiome. Those with very sensitive or severely dry skin should patch test or consult a professional before regular use.

• Ideal: oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin types.
• Good for texture concerns and recurring congestion.
• Not recommended as a primary treatment for severe eczema or very reactive skin without guidance.
• Compatible with many spot treatments when used mindfully.

Who is this for: Sunday Riley Breakout Breakup is aimed at anyone seeking a targeted, non-drying gel cleanser that combines salicylic acid pore penetration with gentle lactic acid exfoliation. Choose this cleanser if your skin tends to get congested, produces excess oil, or if you want to refine texture without the tight, stripped feeling often left by harsher acne washes. For best results pair with a barrier-supporting moisturizer and daily SPF.

Ingredients

Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxypropylsulfonate Laurylglucoside Crosspolymer, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Maltooligosyl Glucoside, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Capryloyl Glycine, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Coco-Glucoside, Butylene Glycol, Lactobacillus/Pear Juice Ferment Filtrate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Decyl Glucoside, Malus Domestica Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Water, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Sodium Chloride, Xylitylglucoside, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Sodium Sulfate, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Isopropyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate.