Acne can be frustrating and painful to deal with. With so many face washes on the market claiming to help clear acne, it can be hard to know which one is truly the best for tackling breakouts. In this blog, we review the top 20 acne face washes to help you find the best one for your skin.
CeraVe’s Acne Face Wash contains 2% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that helps remove excess oil and clears pores. The addition of purifying clay helps draw out impurities from the skin. This face wash is gentle enough for daily use while still being effective at treating acne in oily and acne-prone skin. It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic.
This salicylic acid face wash from Paula’s Choice works to unclog pores, smooth skin texture, and reduce acne breakouts. It contains 0.5% salicylic acid to exfoliate inside pores, removing dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria. Additional skin-soothing ingredients like green tea, licorice, and bisabolol calm redness and irritation.
CeraVe’s Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser contains 4% benzoyl peroxide to kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin while also being non-comedogenic, non-drying, and fragrance-free. The benzoyl peroxide works below the skin’s surface to unclog pores and prevent future breakouts. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide soothe and moisturize skin to prevent dryness.
Bioré’s Charcoal Cleanser contains salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and charcoal to draw out impurities from pores. Salicylic acid works to loosen and sweep away dead skin cells, debris, and excess oil that can clog pores and cause acne. The activated charcoal binds to dirt and oil to deep clean pores.
Cetaphil Gentle Clear Acne Cleanser contains 2.6% benzoyl peroxide in a soothing, non-irritating formula that is gentle enough for sensitive skin. The micronized benzoyl peroxide targets acne-causing bacteria deep in the pores while calming aloe soothes irritation. It clears acne without stripping or over-drying the skin.
Derma-E’s Acne Deep Pore Cleansing Wash contains salicylic acid from willow bark extract to exfoliate and prevent breakouts. This natural face wash also includes soothing chamomile, vitamin E, and glycolic acid to improve skin texture. The formula is sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan.
T-Blast Foaming Face Wash is a gentle daily cleanser for acne-prone and oily skin. It contains tea tree oil, a natural antibacterial known to help clear acne. Manuka honey soothes inflammation while willow bark extract provides gentle exfoliation. This foaming face wash manages oil production, clears existing blemishes, and prevents new breakouts without stripping the skin. It is suitable for pre-teens, teens, and adults.
Every Man Jack Acne Defense Face Wash combines activated charcoal, salicylic acid, and coconut oil to treat breakouts while deeply cleansing pores. The activated charcoal absorbs oil and draws out impurities from the skin for a deep clean. Salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin cells and clears congested pores to prevent acne. Coconut oil provides nourishing moisture.
Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser is formulated with salicylic acid to penetrate pores, control oil production, and prevent breakouts. Aloe vera, thyme, and bladderwrack soothe inflammation without over-drying the skin. This oil-free face wash deep cleans pores while calming existing acne on combination and oily skin types.
PCA SKIN Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser contains 5% benzoyl peroxide to kill acne-causing bacteria deep in the pores. This foaming face wash clears breakouts while soothing inflammation. Oat kernel extract calms sensitivity while allantoin, panthenol, and antimicrobial peptides reduce redness. The formula is non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores or cause new breakouts.
OXY Acne Cleanser Maximum Strength contains 10% benzoyl peroxide for powerful acne-fighting properties. This medicated face wash penetrates pores to eliminate acne-causing bacteria. The micronized benzoyl peroxide also gently exfoliates to sweep away dead skin cells and excess oil. Although it contains a high percentage of benzoyl peroxide, the formula is non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores.
NoAcne Treatment Cleanser is a natural acne face wash containing antibacterial tea tree oil, witch hazel, and green tea extract. These natural ingredients help eliminate acne-causing bacteria, reduce oil production, and soothe inflammation. The gentle formula is free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. It cleans acne-prone skin without causing irritation or dryness.
This maximum strength acne cleanser from Oxy contains 10% micronized benzoyl peroxide to penetrate deep into pores and treat breakouts fast. By killing acne-causing bacteria below the skin’s surface, it not only clears current blemishes but also helps prevent new ones from forming. The non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores or exacerbate acne.
Thayers pH Balancing Daily Cleanser is a gentle face wash formulated to restore the skin’s ideal pH level and maintain healthy moisture balance. It contains aloe vera juice to hydrate and soothe skin prone to acne and oiliness. Witch hazel extract helps control excess oil while vegetable glycerin prevents dryness. This cleanser balances combination and acne-prone skin types.
This K-beauty face wash from Some By Mi contains AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs to gently exfoliate and treat acne without irritation. Tea tree leaf water soothes and prevents breakouts. The foaming formula removes dead skin cells, excess sebum, and acne-causing bacteria from the pores to reveal clearer skin. It has a refreshing herbal scent.
Ayadara Acne Charcoal Face Wash deeply cleanses and detoxifies pores with activated charcoal and apple stem cell extract. The charcoal draws out impurities while salicylic acid provides chemical exfoliation to keep pores clear. Apple stem cells and vitamin C brighten the complexion. This face wash clears acne without irritation or dryness to leave smooth, healthy-looking skin.
Urban Hydration Sea Acne Gone Face Wash harnesses the power of seaweed and algae extracts to purify pores and treat acne. Bladderwrack seaweed clears congestion while kelp extract provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe redness. Green and red algae balance excess oil to prevent future breakouts. This cleanser is gentle enough for all skin types.
Pacifica Acne Defense Face Wash contains salicylic acid to exfoliate and treat breakouts plus soothing seaweed and botanical extracts. This oil-free gel cleanser goes deep into pores to remove acne-causing dirt, debris, and bacteria without stripping the skin. It clears existing blemishes while preventing new ones from forming. The formula is vegan and cruelty-free.
Rael Miracle Clear Face Wash is a gentle exfoliating cleanser that clears acne with succinic acid, a naturally-derived AHA. It smooths skin texture, reduces excess oil, and prevents clogged pores without dryness or irritation. The formula also contains mineral-rich bamboo water and soothing fig extract to hydrate and calm inflammation. This cleanser is vegan, cruelty-free, and made without sulfates, parabens, or phthalates.
Blackwood For Men X-Punge Face Wash is a natural acne cleanser formulated specifically for men’s skin. It contains charcoal powder to draw out impurities from congested pores along with salicylic acid to provide chemical exfoliation. Tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint oils cleanse deeply and purify the skin. The foaming gel formula removes excess oil, dirt, and debris to prevent acne breakouts.
With so many acne face washes available, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for your skin’s needs. Here are some tips on how to choose the best face wash to effectively clear up acne-prone skin:
Product | Key Ingredient | Formula |
---|---|---|
CeraVe Acne Face Wash | 2% Salicylic Acid | Foaming |
Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Cleanser | 0.5% Salicylic Acid | Gel |
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser | 4% Benzoyl Peroxide | Cream-to-Foam |
Bioré Charcoal Acne Cleanser | 1% Salicylic Acid + Charcoal | Foaming |
Cetaphil Gentle Clear Cleanser | 2.6% Benzoyl Peroxide | Creamy |
Derma-E Acne Deep Cleanser | Salicylic Acid | Gel |
T-Blast Foaming Cleanser | Tea Tree Oil | Foaming |
Every Man Jack Charcoal Cleanser | Charcoal + Salicylic Acid | Foaming |
Mario Badescu Acne Cleanser | Salicylic Acid | Gel |
PCA SKIN Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser | 5% Benzoyl Peroxide | Foaming |
Oxy Acne Cleanser Maximum Strength | 10% Benzoyl Peroxide | Gel |
NoAcne Treatment Cleanser | Tea Tree Oil | Gel |
Oxy Acne Cleanser Maximum Strength | 10% Benzoyl Peroxide | Gel |
Thayers pH Balancing Cleanser | Aloe Vera | Gel |
Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA Cleanser | AHA/BHA/PHA | Foaming |
Ayadara Acne Charcoal Cleanser | Charcoal | Gel |
Urban Hydration Sea Cleanser | Seaweed/Algae | Gel |
Pacifica Acne Defense Cleanser | Salicylic Acid | Gel |
Rael Miracle Clear Cleanser | Succinic Acid | Gel |
Blackwood X-Punge Cleanser | Charcoal + Salicylic Acid | Foaming |
There are a few main types of face washes formulated specifically to treat acne-prone skin.
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates dead skin cells inside the pores and dissolves debris that leads to clogging. It also has antibacterial properties to kill acne-causing bacteria. Face washes with salicylic acid ranging from 0.5-2% concentration are effective and gentle for daily use.
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial agent that eliminates acne-causing bacteria on the skin. It is commonly found in concentrations of 2.5%-10% in acne face washes. It also helps peel away layers of dead skin inside clogged pores. It can sometimes cause dryness.
Charcoal draws out impurities like dirt, oil, and bacteria from deep inside pores thanks to its absorbent properties. When combined with other acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, it provides a thorough cleanse to prevent breakouts.
Some cleansers use plant-based ingredients like tea tree, willow bark, or fruit acids as natural alternatives to salicylic acid for exfoliating away dead skin cells. Others use soothing aloe, chamomile, and green tea to reduce inflammation.
Gentler acne cleansers without soap, sulfates, alcohol, or fragrance are better tolerated by sensitive skin prone to irritation. Some contain a lower percentage acne-fighting ingredient like 2% salicylic acid or 2.5% benzoyl peroxide.
To get the most out of your acne face wash for clear skin, follow these best practices:
A. There are many excellent medicated face washes for acne. Top choices include CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with 4% benzoyl peroxide, Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Cleanser with salicylic acid, and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser which contains both acne-fighting ingredients. Look for a face wash with proven acne fighters like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
A. For hormonal acne, look for a cleanser containing ingredients that can treat cystic bumps and acne flares related to hormones. Great options include CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with 4% benzoyl peroxide to reduce inflammation and Neutrogena Skin Balancing Acne Face Wash with salicylic acid to clear congested pores.
A. The best face washes for acne contain acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Top choices include La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash Gel, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fight Facial Cleanser with salicylic acid, and PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash with 10% benzoyl peroxide for stubborn breakouts.
A. CeraVe makes several excellent acne face washes. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser containing 4% benzoyl peroxide is their best face wash for clearing up moderate to severe acne. CeraVe Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser with 0.5% salicylic acid also works well for treating blackheads and breakouts.
A. The best face washes for teenage acne typically contain acne-fighting salicylic acid like Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash or benzoyl peroxide such as Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask. Start with lower concentrations and gradually increase strength if needed. Avoid harsh scrubs or cleansers with sulfates.
A. Most acne face washes are not formulated for use as a mask. It’s best to rinse off after cleansing and avoid leaving them on the skin in order to prevent irritation, dryness, and sensitivity. Only use as a mask if the directions specify it is safe to do so.
A. If your acne face wash stops working after several weeks of use, try switching formulas or opt for one with a higher concentration of acne fighters. Your skin may have grown resistant. Make sure to follow any antibiotic treatments as directed. See a dermatologist if OTC face washes are still ineffective.
A. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are the most proven acne-fighting ingredients in face washes. Benzoyl peroxide kills acne bacteria while salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin cells and debris from pores.
A. Dermatologists generally recommend washing your face with an acne cleanser twice daily – once in the morning and once at night. This helps remove excess oil, bacteria, and impurities that cause breakouts without over-drying the skin.
A. For mild cases, consistent use of the right medicated face wash may be enough to treat acne. However, moderate to severe acne usually requires additional treatments like acne spot treatments, antibiotic creams, retinoids, etc. prescribed by a dermatologist along with an acne face wash.
A. There is no permanent “cure” for acne. However, medicated face washes can help manage acne long-term by killing bacteria, exfoliating pores, and preventing new breakouts when used consistently. They may keep acne at bay but acne can still return when you stop the treatment.
A. Yes, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free face wash without harsh sulfates or soap. Reduce application to once daily if irritation occurs. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe, green tea, or oatmeal. Avoid alcohols and scrubs. Introduce new face washes slowly by patch testing.
A. You should notice reduced oiliness, fewer acne lesions, decreased inflammation and redness, improved skin texture, and no new breakouts after 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Discontinue use if you experience increased dryness, peeling, irritation, or worsening acne.
A. Most acne face washes are not formulated for use as a mask. It’s best to rinse off after cleansing and avoid leaving them on the skin in order to prevent irritation, dryness, and sensitivity. Only use as a mask if the directions specify it is safe to do so.
A. If your acne face wash stops working after several weeks of use, try switching formulas or opt for one with a higher concentration of acne fighters. Your skin may have grown resistant. Make sure to follow any antibiotic treatments as directed. See a dermatologist if OTC face washes are still ineffective.
A. Check with your OB-GYN before using any acne face wash while pregnant, especially those containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Your doctor can advise pregnancy-safe anti-acne alternatives tailored to your skin.
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