Therefore, a good cleanser specially designed to address acne should become an essential part of your daily skin care. The non-comedogenic formula eliminates excess sebum from your skin without causing any irritation or discomfort. It reduces breakouts, pimples, and acne and shows visible results with regular use. These facial cleansers also remove makeup residue to keep your pores from getting clogged. No need to spend hours searching for the most effective acne face wash. Sit back and scroll through our list to pick the suitable cleanser for your skin!
25 Best Face Washes And Cleansers For Acne
1. Best For Dry Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser offers a complete skin care solution that helps to restore the protective skin barrier. The unique formula is infused with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that hydrate your skin without making it too oily or greasy. This non-drying, non-foaming cleanser is dermatologist-recommended. The creamy formula can be used both during the day and at night. Check out this video to know more about this product. For Skin Type: Normal to dry skin Key Ingredients: Ceramides 1, 3, 6-II, Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide Pros
Moisturizing formula Non-greasy Paraben-free Fragrance-free Soap-free Non-comedogenic Non-irritating
Cons
Does not lather
2. Best Non-Greasy Formula: Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash
Benzoyl peroxide is a potent antimicrobial agent that kills acne-causing bacteria. The Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash is formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide that halts the microbial growth, unclogs pores, and treats inflammation. It controls excessive sebum production, leading to a non-greasy, shine-free face. This dermatologist-tested formula helps treat severe acne on your face and body. For Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone skin Key Ingredients: 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Pros
Controls sebum production Vegan Cruelty-free Dermatologist-tested Paraben-free Phthalate-free Sulfate-free Alcohol-free Paraffin-free Formaldehyde-free Mineral oil-free Synthetic fragrance and color-free Petrolatum-free DEA-free Triclosan-free GMOs-free
Cons
Unpleasant fragrance May trigger skin flaking May irritate the skin
3. Best For Dull Skin: Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser is ideal for anyone with cystic acne, blackheads, and dull skin. The tiny gentle microbeads, along with antioxidant-rich glycolic acid help to clear debris without making your face look dull. Additionally, this cleanser is infused with tea tree, bamboo, and shea butter that soothe inflammation and moisturize your face. Combined with seaweed, peppermint, and lavender, it reduces dark spots and redness and promotes healthy-looking skin. Before buying, have a look at this video for more details. For Skin Type: Oily and acne-prone skin Key Ingredients: 10% Glycolic Acid, Bamboo, Shea Butter, Willow Bark, Tea Tree, Seaweed, and Lavender Pros
Fights discoloration Reduces fine lines and wrinkles Combats hyperpigmentation Controls skin oils Paraben-free Sulfate-free Cruelty-free
Cons
May dry out the skin
4. Best Gentle Foaming Formula: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Here comes a gentle foaming day and night cleanser from COSRX that resolves your acne concerns. BHA and tea tree oil pull out dirt from the pores and remove all impurities from the skin. It restores your skin’s pH balance and protects it from environmental damage. This mild cleanser hydrates, refreshes, and strengthens your skin barrier. Watch this video to know more about the product. For Skin Type: Oily, sensitive, and combination skin Key Ingredients: BHA and Tea tree oil Pros
pH-balanced formula Mild formula Foams up quickly Hypoallergenic Dermatologist-tested Cruelty-free Paraben-free Sulfate-free Phthalate-free Fragrance-free
Cons
May trigger allergies
5. Best Clinically Proven Formula: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is a clinically proven formula that deeply cleanses your skin without stripping away the natural oils. This clear, low-lather formula effectively eliminates excess sebum and unclogs the pores while protecting your skin barrier from environmental damage. Its unique gel to foam formula keeps your skin refreshed, hydrated, and balanced. For Skin Type: Oily and sensitive skin Key Ingredients: Glycerin Pros
Non-irritant Mild formula Hypoallergenic Dermatologist-recommended Non-comedogenic
Cons
Contains fragrance Contains SLS
6. Best For Oily Skin: Burt’s Bees Natural Acne Solutions Purifying Gel Cleanser
Salicylic acid and Cica are two potent ingredients that make the Purifying Gel Cleanser by Burt’s Bees a popular natural acne solution to prevent breakouts. These ingredients cleanse the pores without over-drying the skin. Additionally, the evening primrose and beetroot extracts in the formula exfoliate your skin and eliminate all skin impurities. The gentle formula heals your skin and protects its natural barrier to give you a radiant look. For Skin Type: Oily and acne-prone skin Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Cica, Evening primrose, and Beetroot extract Pros
Natural ingredients Non-comedogenic Dermatologically-tested Cruelty-free Recyclable bottle Paraben-free Phthalate-free Petroleum-free
Cons
Overpowering fragrance
7. Best Creamy Texture: Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is clinically proven to be gentle on the skin. The creamy texture of this mild formula keeps your skin soft and supple. The polyglycerin formula keeps your skin hydrated and moisturized. This cleanser is developed by dermatologists and can be a great addition to your daily skin care routine. For Skin Type: Dry and sensitive skin Key Ingredients: Polyglycerin Pros
Hypoallergenic Non-comedogenic Paraben-free Soap-free Oil-free Eco-friendly Fragrance-free
Cons
Does not remove waterproof makeup
8. Best For All Skin Types: Proactiv Cleanse 1 Renewing Cleanser
With the Proactiv Renewing Cleanser, you get a comprehensive solution for acne. This medicated cleanser is infused with benzoyl peroxide 2.5% and chamomile that give you clear and fresh skin, while gentle exfoliating beads unclog the pores. Hyaluronic acid balances your skin’s hydration level and prevents moisture loss. The formula is safe to use on all skin types. For Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, and Dry Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide, Hyaluronic acid, and Chamomile Pros
Safe for all skin types Dermatologist-tested
Cons None
9. Best pH-Balanced Formula: EltaMD Skincare Foaming Facial Cleanser
EltaMd Skincare Foaming Facial Cleanser is a dermatologist-tested face wash that cleans your pores gently. The formula does not strip away the natural oil from your skin, keeps it soft, and maintains its pH balance. Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, helps to reduce inflammation for a soothing effect. For Skin Type: All, Oily, and Sensitive Key Ingredients: Bromelain Pros
Dermatologist-recommended Infuses oxygen into skin Gentle formula Hypoallergenic Sensitivity-free Oil-free pH-balanced formula
Cons
Expensive
10. Best Cruelty-Free Formula: Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser
Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser is a medicated acne face wash infused with 10% benzoyl peroxide. The active agent goes deep into the pores to cleanse and remove dirt and grime, leaving your skin rejuvenated. The proven formula cleanses acne and prevents any future breakouts. For Skin Type: Acne-prone skin Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide Pros
Shrinks pores Dermatologist-recommended Gentle formula
Cons
May cause burning sensation in eyes
11. Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Water
No products found. Regular soap-based cleansers strip off moisture from the skin, making it dry and itchy. On the contrary, the Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Water unclogs pores without stripping your skin’s natural oils. It is made with triple purified water, hexylene glycol, and vitamins B3 and C. Together, these ingredients hydrate and revitalize your skin instantly, leaving it soft and supple. It is free from harmful chemicals or artificial dyes and is safe for sensitive skin. For Skin Type: All skin types Key Ingredients: Hexylene Glycol, Vitamin B3, And Vitamin C Pros
Hydrating formula Dermatologist-tested Vegan Cruelty-free Hypoallergenic Sulfate-free Paraben-free Phthalate-free Cruelty-free Dye-free Perfume-free
Cons
Expensive
12. Laroche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
This medicated gel cleanser from Laroche-Posay Effaclar is formulated with safe, effective, and gentle ingredients. These ingredients cleanse the debris from the face while maintaining the pH balance of your skin. Besides hydrating thermal water, it contains micro-exfoliating salicylic acid and lipo hydroxy acid. These acids target the dirt and grime clogging the pores and control excess oil. The hydrating formula has no harmful chemicals and feels gentle on your skin. For Skin Type: Oily, Sensitive, Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Lipo hydroxy acid Pros
Clears blackheads and whiteheads Reduces excess oil Paraben-free Fragrance-free Hypoallergenic Dermatologist-tested
Cons
Not suitable for dry skin
13. Murad Blemish Control Clarifying Cleanser
The premium Murad Blemish Control Clarifying Cleanser dissolves excess sebum, clears pores, and fades blemishes. It is formulated with a combination of two variants of salicylic acid – free form and encapsulated. The free-form version of salicylic acid starts working as soon as it touches the skin to dislodge dirt and pollution from the pores. The encapsulated version has a delayed release and keeps treating the skin even after rinsing. The soothing effect of green tea extract helps to calm irritation and inflammation. For Skin Type: Acne-prone, Oily, Combination, and Sensitive Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid and Green tea extract Pros
Exfoliates the skin Paraben-free Sulfate-free Phthalate-free Gluten-free Vegan Mineral oil-free Formaldehyde-free Oxybenzone-free Petrolatum/petroleum-free Cruelty-free
Cons
May leave the skin dry
14. Acne Free Oil-Free Acne Cleanser
This medicated cleanser treats and prevents breakouts, thanks to 2.5% benzoyl peroxide. The Acne Free Oil-Free Acne Cleanser penetrates deep into your skin to neutralize acne-causing bacteria, bringing down pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, and cystic acne. The cleanser is infused with ceramides to give your skin a nourishing treatment. For Skin Type: Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide and Ceramides Pros
Minimizes pores Oil-free formula Fragrance free
Cons
Does not lather well
15. PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
The potent, medical-grade PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash is formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide. This antibacterial agent introduces oxygen into the pores, killing the acne-causing bacteria in the process. Additionally, it removes dead skin cells, preventing them from clogging the pores and causing future blemishes. This foaming cleanser is dermatologist-tested and can be bought without a prescription. For Skin Type: Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide Pros
Creamy formula Breaks the acne cycle Dermatologist-tested Suitable for back acne Fragrance-free
Cons
High bleaching content May cause skin peeling
16. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser is a popular acne face wash infused with 4% benzoyl peroxide. It gently exfoliates the skin to prevent acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. The combination of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide helps tame acne while protecting the natural skin barrier. Additionally, this cleanser contains ceramides that soothe the skin and prevent irritation and dryness. You can use this cleanser as a body wash for treating back acne. For Skin Type: Oily skin Key Ingredients: Essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-ii), Hylauronic acid, and Niacinamide Pros
Moisturizing formula Creamy texture Paraben-free Fragrance-free Non-comedogenic
Cons
May irritate the skin May cause dryness
17. Bioré Free Your Pores! Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Cooling Cleanser
Salicylic acid unplugs dead skin cells and dirt from the pores, giving you a fresh, clean face. This ingredient is often used in acne treatment to clear the pores and proactively reduce acne recurrence. Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Cooling Cleanser is infused in salicylic acid, making it effective for fighting acne and blemishes. Wwitch hazel, a potent astringent, shrinks the pores and helps control sebum production to prevent blackheads in the future. The hypoallergenic formula does not irritate your skin. This face wash is suitable for daily use. For Skin Type: Oily Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid and Witch Hazel Pros
Lathers well Clearer complexion Shrinks pores Hypoallergenic Oil-free Dermatologist-tested Suitable for daily use
Cons
Contains alcohol Contains SLS
18. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Redness Soothing Facial Cleanser
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash is formulated with Microclear Technology to clear breakouts and gives you healthy skin. This face wash cuts through the oil and dirt lodged deep into the pores and prevent acne from popping out. It further protects the natural barrier of your skin, preventing moisture loss. Plant-based ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera freshen up your face and add a glowing radiance to your skin. This salicylic acid-based cleanser is developed by dermatologists and is safe for your skin. For Skin Type: Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Aloe, and Chamomile Pros
Fights redness Unclogs pores Dermatologist-tested
Cons
Overpowering fragrance
19. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Cleanser
Your acne-prone skin will love this dermatologist-recommended acne cleanser. Its medicated formula protects the natural barrier of your skin, while salicylic acid gently unclogs pores and removes dead skin cells. This non-drying cleanser with MicroClear Technology shrinks the pores and prevents future occurrences of acne. For Skin Type: Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid Pros
Dermatologist-recommended Clears back acne Oil-free formula Non-comedogenic
Cons
Expensive
20. Cetaphil PRO DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Wash
Cetaphil PRO Dermacontrol Oil Removing Foam Wash is clinically proven to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup without leaving your skin dry. It is formulated with soothing zinc technology and helps in clearing sebum from the face and reducing shine. In addition, glycerin moisturizes your skin and keeps it hydrated. The foaming formula dispenses light and airy lather that is easy to rinse off. The hypoallergenic formula is non-irritating for your skin. For Skin Type: Acne-prone, Oily Key Ingredients: Glycerin and Zinc Pros
Reduces oil Moisturizing formula Fragrance-free Paraben- free Hypoallergenic Dermatologist-tested
Cons None
21. Differen Benzoyl Peroxide
This dual-action cleanser first goes deep into the skin to absorb excess oil and then releases a gentle moisturizer to hydrate the skin without clogging pores. This powerful cleansing formula contains 5% benzoyl peroxide that is highly effective in fighting acne without causing irritation and dryness. The gentle formula can be used in your daily skin regimen. For Skin Type: Sensitive Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide Pros
Oil-absorbing formula Soothes inflammation Antibacterial formula Dermatologist-developed formula Moisturizes the skin
Cons None
22. Laroche Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser For Oily Sensitive Skin
The rich, nourishing Laroche Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is a gentle face wash specially crafted for oily and sensitive skin. It eliminates excess oil from the skin without leaving it dry. The gel-based cleanser formulated with zinc pidolate clears excess oil and dirt from the skin while toning down the oily shine. It moisturizes the skin and keeps it hydrated post-wash. It is developed by a dermatologist and gentle on sensitive skin. For Skin Type: Oily, Sensitive, Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Zinc pidolate Pros
Removes excess sebum Balances the skin’s pH Soap-free Dermatologically tested Alcohol-free Paraben-free
Cons ? Expensive
23. Bioré Charcoal Acne Clearing Face Wash
This is another best-seller from Bioré that is formulated with quick-acting skin-purifying agents that clear the skin within a few days. It contains exfoliants – salicylic acid and charcoal – that clean the pores and let you achieve clear and healthy skin. Together, they cleanse your pores and prevent future breakouts. This oil-free formula is a perfect acne solution for oily skin. For Skin Type: Oily and Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid and Charcoal Pros
Absorbs excess oil Dermatologist-tested Cruelty-free Non-comedogenic Vegan
Cons None
24. Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser
Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser breaks down the impurities and cleanses your skin for a balanced complexion. It is formulated with soothing ingredients like thyme extract and salicylic acid that help in exfoliating the skin. In addition, soothing aloe vera and chamomile extract hydrate the skin. For Skin Type: Combination, Oily, Acne-prone Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Aloe vera, Chamomile, Thyme extract, and Hyaluronic acid Pros
Vegan Oil-free Gluten-free
Cons
Not ideal for daily use
25. Neutralyze Face Wash Breakout Clearing Facial Cleanser
Neutralyze Face Wash Breakout Clearing Facial Cleanser is a powerful skin-strengthening formula that protects your skin from future breakouts. The 2% salicylic acid and 1% mandelic acid in it exfoliate the pores, fade fine lines and wrinkles, and correct uneven skin tone. In addition, the nitric oxide in the formula helps your skin to heal faster. For Skin Type: All skin types Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Mandelic acid, Nitric oxide Pros
Fades dark spots Reduces fine lines and wrinkles Eliminates blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples Non-comedogenic Cruelty-free GMP-certified Paraben-free Sulfate-free Fragrance-free
Cons None Here is a quick guide on how to wash your face with an acne face wash.
How To Use Acne Face Wash To See Good Results
Follow these simple steps to wash your face for good results:
- Splash your face gently with water.
- Take some acne face wash and rub it gently on your face in a circular motion for a few seconds.
- Wash it off for ten seconds till your skin is soap-free. Avoid over-washing as it can dry out your skin.
- Gently pat your face dry without rubbing it roughly. Cleansing your face twice daily with a suitable acne face wash can help manage several of your skin woes. But, you must choose your cleanser carefully. Here are a few things you need to look for before buying a cleanser for your acne-prone skin.
What To Look For In an Acne Face Wash
Ingredients with acne-fighting properties play a crucial important role when you look for an acne face wash. Here are a few of them:
- Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid (a BHA) is ideal for unblocking clogged pores. This ingredient exfoliates the skin and removes dead skin cells, while shrinking the pores.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: This ingredient is great for fighting bacterial acne. It introduces oxygen into the pores, killing off acne-causing bacteria that gather under your pores.
- Skin Soothers: Natural and anti-inflammatory ingredients help to cal1m redness, swelling, and inflammation. For example, face washes with aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile help prevent acne scars and speed up healing.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach with a penchant for discovering effective skin care solutions for you. She curated this list of recommended face washes and cleansers for acne-prone skin that skin gurus swear by. She spent many hours researching each product and its reviews. These products were selected based on key ingredients, skin benefits, and the absence of harsh elements. Are face washes good for acne? Yes, face washes remove dirt and oil that might clog pores and cause breakouts. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredients in face washes reduce inflammation and combat acne-causing bacteria. Which is better: face wash or cleanser for acne? Both face washes and face cleansers are good for acne. Face washes are ideal for oily skin, but face cleansers are suitable for every skin type. Should I use face wash or cleanser first? Use a cleanser first to remove dirt, bacteria, and makeup from your face. Then, use a face wash to remove the excess oil, greasiness, and leftover traces of makeup. What causes acne on the face? Excess sebum, accumulation of dead skin cells, and external aggressors cause acne. Also, some breakouts occur due to hormonal changes.
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