Clearasil has been used as an acne treatment since the 1950s. It was invented in the United States by Ivan Combe and Kedzie Teller in 1950. It was the first dermatological brand created for younger skin to help with acne. The first ingredients used were sulfur and resorcinol. It now contains benzoyl peroxide, triclosan or salicylic acid as active ingredients.

The show American Bandstand was used to promote the product and in 1975, Wolfman Jack was the chief spokesperson. Clearasil is now owned by Reckitt Benckiser.