OBAGI - CLENZIderm M.D.® Foaming Cleanser

Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® Foaming Cleanser is a professional-strength, daily cleansing treatment formulated with 2% salicylic acid for oily, congested, blemish-prone and acne-prone skin. Its active foaming formula removes excess oil, impurities and pore-blocking dead skin while beginning the exfoliation process at the first stage of an Obagi skincare routine.

Unlike a conventional face wash that primarily removes surface debris, this lightweight cleanser uses an established concentration of oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid to penetrate oily build-up and help keep congested pores clear. Cooling menthol leaves the complexion feeling exceptionally clean and refreshed after rinsing.

Why choose Obagi CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser?

• Contains 2% salicylic acid for active daily exfoliation
• Helps unclog congested pores and remove dead skin build-up
• Washes away excess surface oil, impurities and daily debris
• Creates a fresh, lightweight foam suitable for oilier complexions
• Helps prepare the skin for the next stage of a targeted blemish routine
• Cooling menthol provides an immediate clean and refreshed sensation
• Designed for normal-to-oily, combination and blemish-prone skin
• Part of the professional Obagi CLENZIderm M.D. skincare system

2% salicylic acid for congested and acne-prone skin

Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid, commonly abbreviated to BHA. This oil solubility allows it to work within the mixture of sebum and dead skin cells that can collect around the opening of a pore.

At a concentration of 2%, salicylic acid helps loosen and remove accumulated surface cells while supporting clearer-looking pores and a smoother skin texture. This makes CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser particularly relevant when persistent oiliness, visible congestion, blackheads and recurring blemishes are central concerns.

Because the active ingredient is incorporated into the cleansing stage, the formula begins addressing pore congestion before leave-on products are applied. It is therefore more purposeful than using a basic cleanser alongside an otherwise active acne or blemish routine.

More than an ordinary foaming cleanser

The CLENZIderm formula combines its 2% salicylic acid active with a high-foaming cleansing base that lifts away oil, cosmetic residue and impurities. Glycerin and chamomile flower extract are included within the supporting formulation, while menthol and menthyl lactate create its characteristic cooling finish.

The result is a decisive cleanse for skin that frequently feels oily, blocked or insufficiently refreshed by gentle cream cleansers. It leaves the skin prepared for a carefully selected leave-on exfoliant or treatment rather than leaving behind a heavy residue.

Who is Obagi CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser for?

This cleanser may be suitable for adults concerned about:

• Oily or combination skin
• Congested and visibly enlarged pores
• Blackheads and persistent blocked pores
• Frequent blemishes or acne-prone skin
• Uneven texture caused by surface build-up
• Excess shine during the day
• Creating a more active, clinically focused cleansing routine

Dry, highly sensitive or barrier-compromised skin may find frequent salicylic-acid cleansing too intensive. Introduce the product gradually and adjust its frequency according to how the skin responds.

How to use Obagi CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser

1. Wet the face using warm water.
2. Dispense approximately a nickel-sized amount into the hands.
3. Massage the foam carefully over the face, avoiding the eye area.
4. Rinse thoroughly and gently pat the skin dry.
5. Allow the skin to dry for approximately 10–15 minutes before applying subsequent active products.

Begin with once-daily use. If the skin tolerates the formula well and a skincare professional has recommended greater frequency, use may be increased gradually. If excessive dryness, peeling or discomfort develops, reduce application to once daily or every other day.

How it fits into the CLENZIderm routine

CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser performs the first cleansing and exfoliating stage of the routine. It can be followed by Obagi CLENZIderm M.D.® Pore Therapy, a leave-on formulation that also contains 2% salicylic acid for more sustained contact with congested skin.

Because both products contain an active BHA concentration, they should be introduced thoughtfully rather than assuming that more frequent exfoliation will necessarily produce better results. A progressive routine helps maintain consistency while reducing avoidable dryness.

If benzoyl peroxide, prescription acne treatments, retinoids or other exfoliating acids are also being used, obtain individual guidance before combining them. The correct sequence and frequency will depend upon the complete routine and the skin’s tolerance.

When should results become noticeable?

The skin should feel thoroughly cleansed and refreshed immediately after use. Changes in visible congestion, texture and the frequency of blemishes require consistent use over time and depend on the remaining products in the routine.

Salicylic acid works by supporting the ongoing removal of pore-blocking build-up. For this reason, regular well-tolerated use is generally more valuable than occasional aggressive cleansing.

Important usage information

• For external use only.
• Avoid direct contact with the eyes and surrounding eye area.
• Do not apply to broken, irritated or severely sensitised skin.
• Reduce frequency if excessive dryness, redness or peeling occurs.
• Use daily broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid unnecessary sun exposure.
• Seek professional advice before combining it with multiple strong exfoliants or acne treatments.
• Store between 15°C and 25°C and protect from direct sunlight.

Frequently asked questions

Does Obagi CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser contain salicylic acid?

Yes. It contains 2% salicylic acid, an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid used to exfoliate dead skin build-up and help keep congested pores clear.

Can it be used on oily skin?

Yes. The product is particularly suited to normal-to-oily and combination complexions affected by excess oil, congestion or recurring blemishes.

Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?

CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser was developed for blemish-prone and acne-prone skin. Its 2% salicylic acid formula makes it a targeted cleansing option rather than a general-purpose face wash.

Can I use it twice a day?

Some established users may tolerate twice-daily use, but it is sensible to begin once daily. Increase the frequency only if required and if the skin remains comfortable.

Can I use it with Obagi Pore Therapy?

Yes, the products belong to the same CLENZIderm range. However, both contain 2% salicylic acid, so their combined frequency should be adjusted according to tolerance and professional guidance.

Can I combine it with retinol or tretinoin?

Active retinoids and salicylic acid can both increase dryness and visible peeling. Their use within the same routine should be introduced cautiously and personalised rather than automatically combined at maximum frequency.

Product details

• Brand: Obagi Medical
• Range: CLENZIderm M.D.®
• Product type: Active foaming facial cleanser
• Key active: Salicylic acid 2%
• Primary concerns: Excess oil, blemishes, acne-prone skin, blackheads and congested pores
• Suitable skin types: Normal-to-oily and combination skin

Ingredients

Active ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2%.

Inactive ingredients: Butyl Avocadate, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium EDTA, Ethoxydiglycol, Ext. Violet 2, Fragrance, Glycerin, Menthol, Menthyl Lactate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Water (Aqua).

Ingredient lists may be updated by the manufacturer. Refer to the product packaging for the current formulation if you have a known sensitivity or allergy.