Reviewed by Younghun Cho
Pharmacist's Verdict
Stridex Maximum Pads are a powerful and budget-friendly choice for treating blackheads and pimples on oily skin, but the added menthol and fragrance make them a poor option for anyone with sensitive or dry skin.
Ingredient Analysis
Salicylic Acid (2%)
Menthol
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Fragrance
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Contains 2% salicylic acid, the highest strength available over-the-counter for clearing pores.
- The alcohol-free formula is less drying than many competing acne pads.
- Extremely affordable and widely available at most drugstores and supermarkets.
- Convenient, single-use pads are great for travel, post-gym cleansing, or targeting body acne.
Cons
- Contains menthol and fragrance, two common ingredients that can cause irritation, redness, and sensitivity.
- Can cause significant dryness or peeling, especially when you first start using it.
- Less effective for severe, cystic, or hormonal acne which often requires different treatments.
- The cleansing agents can feel a bit harsh and strip the skin's natural moisture barrier.
References
- 1.FDA Drug Label — Oil Free Daily Face EQB
FDA DailyMed: Oil Free Daily Face EQB · FDA
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González-Molina V, Martí-Pineda A, González N, The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 2022 · PubMed
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Witchey DJ, Witchey NB, Roth-Kauffman MM, et al., The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 2018 · PubMed
- 6.Basic chemical peeling: Superficial and medium-depth peels.
Lee KC, Wambier CG, Soon SL, et al., Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2019 · PubMed