Use the following zoom and pan buttons to control the image that follows them
Tab through the images or use the previous or next buttons to navigate each product image
Summary
Highlights
The Kiehl's Since 1851 Acne-Treating Cleansing Paste is formulated with salicylic acid to help reduce and prevent acne without drying skin.
Benefits
- Helps to treat acne and prevent future blemishes
- Non-drying formula
- 99% Biodegradable formula
- Can be used as cleanser, mask, or spot treatment for face
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin types
- Paraben-free
Key Ingredients
- Salicyclic Acid
- Charcoal
- Centella
Research Results
- Kiehl's acne cleansing paste is clinically proven to help reduce acne:
- In 3 Days, Reduces 4 Types of Acne*
- -49% Acne Count in 1 Week**
- *Based on an expert grading of papule, pustule, whitehead and blackhead count.
- **Based on an expert grading of inflammatory (papule & pustule) acne count.
- 100% saw clearer skin in 1 week***
- ***Results based on expert grading on one or of inflammatory and non inflammatory count at 4 weeks.
Item 2642241
Dispense into palm and apply to face. Wash thoroughly with water or wet towel. Follow with Kiehl's Acne Lotion and Kiehl's Acne Liquid Pimple Patch.
Water Glycerin Kaolin Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Glyceryl Stearate Se Cetyl Alcohol Niacinamide Glycolipids Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide Carrageenan Beta-Glucan Centella Asiatica Extract Ceramide Np Charcoal Powder Chitosan Lactic Acid Sodium Benzoate Sodium Hydroxide Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate Salicylic Acid.
This brand is excluded from most Ulta Beauty coupons.
We think you'll like
12 items
Use previous and next buttons to navigate the slides of the We think you'll like Product Carousel
Similar items for you
12 items
Use previous and next buttons to navigate the slides of the Similar items for you Product Carousel
Sponsored products
12 items
Use previous and next buttons to navigate the slides of the Sponsored products Product Carousel
Questions
Ask a QuestionWhat do you want to know about this product?
Reviews
Write A REVIEWReview Snapshot
by PowerReviews
Ratings Distribution
Most Helpful Positive Review
Great new 3-in-1
I was thrilled to have the opportunity to try the new cleansing paste from Kiehl's, a versatile 3-in-1 treatment that offers the benefits of a cleanser, mask, and spot treatment. This multifunctional product is particularly appealing for those who prefer simplicity in their skincare routine. Its abi...
Most Helpful Critical Review
Deep Cleaning Facial Cleanser
I really enjoyed this product. The texture is nice, and my face felt super clean and refreshed after each use. I appreciated that it didn't feel overly drying, which can be a problem with some acne treatments. However, I did notice some breakouts shortly after starting it. I'm not sure if it's just...
222 results
Effective non drying formula
I've tried so many acne products that either irritated my skin or did absolutely nothing. This cleansing paste from Kiehl's surprised me in the best way. I used it daily for a week as a cleanser and twice as a mask, and my skin noticeably calmed down. The breakouts on my chin and jaw reduced, and any redness faded quicker than usual. The texture is creamy with a slight grit that feels exfoliating without being harsh. I love that it has salicylic acid and charcoal, but it doesn't strip my skin like other treatments. My skin felt clean but never tight. The best part? I didn't get any flaking or dry patches, even around my nose where I usually do. It's gentle enough for my sensitive skin but strong enough to keep acne under control. I'll definitely keep this in rotation and use it as a spot treatment when needed too. Highly recommend if you want something effective and soothing at the same time.

Could be worth it to others
[I received this product in exchange for my honest review] I think the product has effectiveness, however it wasn't very effective to me. It has decent packaging and no overbearing scent. The texture is kinda similar to a facial wash product. I think overall this product could be worth it to others, but not to me.
great paste!
I was honestly surprised by how much I liked this cleansing paste. The texture is thick and a bit gritty, but in a good way — it feels like it's actually doing something without being harsh. It spreads easily and rinses off clean. After a week of using it, my skin felt smoother and some of my smaller breakouts started clearing up. It didn't dry me out like a lot of acne products tend to do, which I really appreciated. Plus, it smells fresh without being overpowering. Definitely feels like a step up from typical acne face washes.
I would buy this again
Kiehl's Dermatologist Solutions Acne-Treating Cleansing Paste is a gentle, non-foaming exfoliator with salicylic acid, kaolin clay, and aloe vera, perfect for mild to moderate acne and sensitive skin.
Great face wash!
[I received this product in exchange for my honest review] I really enjoyed using this face wash! I found it to be very gentle but cleansing at the same time. I also found my skin's texture to be more smooth the next day. The only con with this is that I found it to be more drying than my usual daily cleanser. As a note, I also don't get much acne in general but I do get texture. Overall, I would recommend this product, but I think it would be most effective for those with oily and acne prone skin.

