Dr.Belmeur Active Derma AHA/BHA Sebum Control Gel Cleanser

I purchased the Dr.Belmeur Active Derma AHA/BHA Sebum Control Gel Cleanser specifically because it was marketed as a gel cleanser rather than a foam cleanser, which immediately set it apart from most other face cleansers in the store. I strongly prefer gel textures, as I wear contact lenses and dislike foamy products that tend to spread into the hairline, ears, neck, or eyes. In use, the texture is indeed gel-based, although it does create a small amount of foam during cleansing, which was slightly unexpected but still minimal compared to traditional foaming cleansers.

The cleanser has a clean, clinical, almost medical scent that reinforces its dermatological positioning and feels reassuring rather than perfumed. The gel contains small peeling beads that provide very gentle exfoliation, contributing to a fresh, refined skin feel without being abrasive. After cleansing, the skin feels properly clean and refreshed, not greasy, and not overly tight. Overall, it performs well as a daily cleanser for oily or combination skin types, delivers a refreshing sensation, and the 100 ml size is particularly convenient, as it fits easily into airline carry-on luggage, making it practical for travel.

Manufacturer’s instructions for use

According to the manufacturer’s general usage guidelines, apply an appropriate amount of the cleanser to wet hands and gently massage onto a damp face, avoiding the eye area. Massage lightly in circular motions to cleanse the skin and allow the exfoliating and sebum-controlling ingredients to work, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. The cleanser is intended for daily use, typically morning and evening, depending on skin tolerance. Users with sensitive skin are advised to start with once-daily use and gradually increase frequency if well tolerated, especially due to the presence of AHA and BHA. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist, and always follow with appropriate moisturizing and daytime sun protection when using exfoliating acids regularly.

Complete ingredient list (INCI)

Please note that ingredient lists can vary slightly by region or reformulation, so it is always best to cross-check with the packaging of your specific product.

Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates Copolymer, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Tromethamine, Cellulose, Cellulose Gum, Disodium EDTA, Butylene Glycol, Panthenol, Allantoin, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Dipropylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum).

In addition to its pleasant gel texture and fresh, clinical scent, the Dr.Belmeur Active Derma AHA/BHA Sebum Control Gel Cleanser is formulated to target excess sebum, clogged pores, and uneven skin texture while remaining suitable for daily use. The cleansing base relies on mild surfactants that remove dirt, oil, and sunscreen without the heavy, dense foam typical of many facial cleansers, which makes it more comfortable for contact lens wearers and users who dislike foam spreading beyond the face.

The inclusion of AHA (lactic acid and citric acid) helps gently exfoliate the skin’s surface by loosening dead skin cells, supporting smoother texture and brighter appearance over time. BHA (salicylic acid), which is oil-soluble, penetrates into pores to help dissolve excess sebum and debris, making it particularly beneficial for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The small cellulose-based peeling beads enhance this exfoliating effect mechanically but in a controlled, mild way, avoiding the harshness of traditional scrubs.

Soothing and barrier-supporting ingredients such as panthenol, allantoin, and centella asiatica derivatives (madecassoside, asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid) help calm the skin, reduce irritation potential from acids, and support skin recovery. Humectants like glycerin and butylene glycol attract and retain moisture, preventing the cleanser from leaving the skin overly dry or tight after rinsing. Overall, the formulation balances cleansing, light exfoliation, oil control, and skin-soothing benefits, making it suitable as a refreshing daily cleanser rather than an aggressive treatment product.