# Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Cleansing Toner for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Germany.

Brand: [Neutrogena](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/neutrogena)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other cleansing toners fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as salicylic acid helps to clear pores and reduce blemishes, while citric acid provides mild exfoliation.
- The formula is safe for your combination skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients, though it lacks sufficient hydrating or balancing components for optimal results.
- The product is safe for your skin as it contains no prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/dry-skin): Warning
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/dark-spots): Caution
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/mature-skin): Caution
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Menthyl Lactate, Alcohol Denat

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Daily treatment with a facial serum containing multiple acids reduced post-inflammatory hyperchromia lesion grade and number by 29.4% at 56 days, and decreased skin oiliness by 30.7% at 7 days in Brazilian patients with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- A novel composition containing salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, HEPES, glycolic acid, citric acid, and dioic acid showed similar tolerance and efficacy compared with clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in subjects with acne vulgaris. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23545907/))
- Topical 20% citric acid lotion increases viable epidermal thickness and dermal glycosaminoglycan content in sun-damaged skin compared to vehicle alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9256916/))

## What reviewers say

Users with oily and acne-prone skin frequently praise this toner for its ability to deep clean pores and visibly reduce blackheads over time. A moderate number of users also note its effectiveness in controlling oil and providing a refreshing sensation. However, a high number of users with sensitive or dry skin report that the high alcohol content causes stinging, redness, and excessive dryness.

- Liked: Deep cleaning (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective on blackheads (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Stings or burns (often mentioned)
- Liked: Controls oil/shine (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Refreshing sensation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong chemical smell (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes irritation/redness (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM and PM routine. Start using the cleansing toner 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the cleansing toner after cleansing and before your moisturizer or SPF.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the cleansing toner into your skin and let it absorb for a minute before layering other products.
- Apply the cleansing toner on dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target blemishes.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before first use to ensure your skin feels comfortable.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/25abe7eb181ba53153fd15de2058c2a9.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Toner work for acne-prone skin?

Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Cleansing Toner is an average fit for acne-prone skin, as salicylic acid helps clear pores and reduce blemishes while citric acid provides mild exfoliation. The formula is safe for your skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients, though it lacks sufficient hydrating components for optimal results. A product of this type needs effective exfoliating ingredients for blemishes combined with soothing extracts and hydrating components to keep acne-prone skin balanced.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid and citric acid help clear pores and reduce blemishes on your acne-prone skin. To work best for this skin type, a product of this type needs a balanced blend of exfoliating ingredients along with soothing extracts and hydrating components to manage oiliness while keeping skin comfortable and soft.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Salicylic acid helps clear acne-prone skin by reducing pimples and calming redness without causing many side effects. It works by dipping deep into pores to clear out blockages and control oil, making it a reliable choice for keeping skin smooth and clear.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Glycerin do for acne-prone skin?

Glycerin helps keep acne-prone skin hydrated and calm without clogging pores or feeling heavy. It supports the skin barrier so it stays soft and smooth while handling everyday treatments.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31840548/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This cleansing toner goes in your evening routine, specifically after cleansing and before your treatment. It helps to clear pores and reduce blemishes with salicylic acid, but an acne-prone skin routine of this type also needs extra hydrating and balancing ingredients to keep your skin feeling comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Can I use this toner with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this toner with retinol, but apply them at different times or days since both can easily dry out or irritate your skin. A product of this type for acne-prone skin works best when it is paired with soothing, hydrating ingredients and gentle barrier-restoring components to keep skin comfortable.

### How often should I use it?

Start by using this cleansing toner once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well without irritation, you may carefully use it more often. While salicylic acid helps to clear pores and reduce blemishes, this product lacks sufficient hydrating or balancing components, so acne-prone skin needs a routine that also includes gentle hydrators and moisturizers to keep skin comfortable.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Can this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores since it contains salicylic acid to help clear them, but it may cause dryness or stinging on acne-prone skin. To work best for this skin, a product of this type needs extra soothing and hydrating ingredients to keep the face soft and calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It contains fragrance (parfum) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Neogen Real Ferment Micro Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neogen/real-ferment-micro-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €34.99 at Amazon
- [Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €15.99 at Amazon
- [ANUA BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/anua/bha-2-gentle-exfoliating-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €20.49 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €3.95 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B082VP1JR6?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €6.50 (https://www.notino.de/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-reinigungstonikum-gegen-mitesser/p-16269015/)
Prices checked 17 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol Denat, Ppg-5-Ceteth-20, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Salicylic Acid, Menthyl Lactate, Sodium Citrate, Parfum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/neutrogena/blackhead-eliminating-cleansing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
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