13 Best Face Washes for Acne and Pimple in 2023

9 Best Face Wash for acne and pimple in 2021
Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support!

Acne is a common skin problem that affects many people, and finding a solution can be challenging as there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, using the right acne face wash can be a good starting point. According to some skin care experts, cleansers play a crucial role in balancing the pH of the skin, especially for those with acne-prone skin. While the skin’s natural pH should be slightly acidic to prevent bacteria and retain moisture, acne-prone skin tends to be too acidic, causing inflammation. Therefore, it’s important to use a face wash that balances the skin’s pH.

Apart from balancing the skin’s pH, using a face wash is also essential in removing pollutants and bacteria that we encounter in our daily lives, as well as removing makeup. These factors can clog pores and cause breakouts.

To help you find the best acne-specific face wash, We have put together a list of the 13 most effective facial cleansers for acne by extensively researching information from various sources on the internet. This comprehensive list will aid you in finding the ideal face wash tailored to your acne-specific needs. Also, Using one of these products will leave your skin feeling clean, fresh, and free from irritation.

We hope that our recommendations help you find the right acne face wash for your skin.

Here’s a Quick Look at the Best Face Washes for Acne and Pimple:

Products Best For Price
1. Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser Best Effective Yet Affordable $9.05
2. Aveeno Active Naturals Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser Best for Sensitive Skin $15.79
3. Belli Skincare Anti-Blemish Facial Wash Best for Hormonal Breakouts $19.99
4. Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser Best For Dry Skin $12.00
5. Differin Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Face Wash Best Antibacterial Face Wash for Acne $12.47
6. Trader Joe’s Nourish All In One Facial Cleanser Best Antioxidant Rich Face Wash $12.49
7. Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser Best for pregnancy acne $36.00
8. Eau Thermale Avène Antirougeurs Fort Soothing Concentrate Calming Redness Cream Best For Acne Rosacea $49.00
9. Bioré Charcoal Acne Clearing Facial Cleanser Best For Acne, Blackheads and Oily Skin $7.99
10. iS Clinical Cleansing Complex Face Wash Best 3in1 Gentle Deep Pore Cleanser $42.75
11. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser Best for Adult Acne $8.86
12. St. Ives Acne Control Daily Face Cleanser Best For Oily, Acne-Prone Skin $14.95
13. Dr. Alkaitis Organic Purifying Facial Cleanser Best For all Skin Type $67.00

When selecting the best face washes for acne and pimple, we consider several factors, including:

Skin Type

It is crucial to choose a face wash that caters to your skin type to prevent further irritation or dryness. There are five main skin types: oily, dry, combination, normal, and sensitive.

Oily skin tends to produce more sebum and requires a cleanser that can control excess oil production.

Dry skin requires a hydrating cleanser that can restore moisture and prevent further dryness.

Combination skin requires a balance between hydration and oil control.

Normal skin is relatively balanced and requires a gentle, non-irritating cleanser.

Sensitive skin requires a cleanser that is gentle, non-comedogenic, and free from irritating ingredients. Based on these factors, we’ve read thousands of reviews of each product and identified which cleansears work best for which skin types.

Active Ingredients

Acne-fighting ingredients are essential in the best face washes for acne and pimple. The most common active ingredients are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, and reduces inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and exfoliates the skin. The percentage of each active ingredient depends on the severity of acne. It is essential to use the correct percentage to prevent further irritation or dryness.

Texture

The texture of a face wash is also an essential factor to consider. Foaming and gel cleansers can be effective in removing excess oil, but they can also be drying and irritating, especially for people with dry or sensitive skin. Creamy cleansers and cleansing oils are more gentle and moisturizing and can work well for people with dry or sensitive skin.

Comedogenic or Noncomedogenic

Choosing a noncomedogenic face wash is essential for individuals with acne-prone skin. Noncomedogenic products won’t clog pores or cause further breakouts. In addition to sulfates and fragrances, it’s important to avoid comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and lanolin.

Using these factors, we’ve compiled a list of the 13  best face washes that should work for a range of skin types and preferences.

13 Best Face Washes for Acne and Pimple in 2023

1) Cetaphil Gentle Cleaser

This face wash is a great option for those looking for a gentle, yet effective acne cleanser. It contains a low concentration of salicylic acid (2%), making it mild enough to use daily without over-drying the skin. I especially appreciate that it’s suitable for all skin types, so even those with sensitive skin can benefit from its acne-fighting properties.

What sets this product apart is its triple-action formula. It not only treats current acne but also prevents future breakouts and improves the appearance of uneven skin tone and redness caused by acne. The addition of PHA, succinic acid, niacinamide, zinc, and prebiotics in the formula helps to soothe and refine the skin, leaving it smoother and clearer.

One of the things I love most about Cetaphil’s Gentle Cleaser is its hydrating and soothing properties. The balanced formula nourishes the skin, defending against the five signs of skin sensitivity, including a weakened skin barrier, irritation, roughness, tightness, and dryness. This makes it a great choice for those with sensitive skin who are prone to breakouts.

Overall, I highly recommend Cetaphil’s Gentle Clear Triple-Action Serum as the best cleanser for acne-prone skin. It’s affordable, effective, and gentle, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a facial cleanser that can tackle their acne without irritating their sensitive skin. Whether you’re looking for a face wash for acne or an acne cleanser that won’t leave your skin feeling dry and stripped, this product is definitely worth considering.

2) Aveeno Active Naturals Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser

If you’re someone who struggles with sensitive skin, finding a face wash that doesn’t cause redness or irritation can feel impossible. But the Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser is here help you.

This gentle cleanser is perfect for those with dry, sensitive skin and is a great option for those looking for a facial cleanser that is formulated to help calm redness and irritated skin.

One of the best things about this cleanser is that it is also a makeup remover, so you can use it to lift away dirt, oil, bacteria, and makeup without over-drying your skin. This foaming facial cleanser uses Calming Feverfew extract, an ingredient related to Chamomile to help visibly reduce the appearance of redness and calm irritated, sensitive skin.

The Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser is fragrance-free, soap-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, making it gentle enough for everyday use in a regular skincare routine or beauty regimen. It is also a great choice for those looking for a parthenolide-free extract (PFE) of feverfew, which means that skin-aggravating sesquiterpene lactones—naturally found in the plant—are removed from the feverfew. Overall, this is one of the best facial cleansers for acne-prone, sensitive skin, and it is definitely worth a try.

3) Belli Skincare Anti-Blemish Facial Wash

Best Face Wash For Acne And Pimple

As a skincare blogger, I am always on the lookout for the best products to help combat acne and pimples. If you’re pregnant and struggling with hormonal breakouts, then Belli’s Anti-Blemish Facial Wash might be just what you need. This product is free from harmful ingredients like retinoids and parabens, making it safe for use during pregnancy.

What sets Belli’s Anti-Blemish Facial Wash apart from other acne cleansers is its use of natural ingredients like glycerin, green tea, cucumber, and lemon peel oil. These ingredients work together to gently cleanse the skin without causing dryness or irritation. The lemon peel oil also has natural antibacterial properties which can help prevent further breakouts.

While this cleanser has a slightly thicker texture than other facial cleansers, it still manages to leave your skin feeling fresh and clean. It’s perfect for those struggling with pregnancy acne, adult acne, sensitive skin, or hormonal breakouts.

Belli is known for their allergy tested and chemical-free products, making them a favorite among moms before, during, and after pregnancy. To maintain a healthy glow, pair this acne treatment with Belli’s Fresh Start Pre-Treatment Scrub and other skin care products. Overall, I highly recommend Belli’s Anti-Blemish Facial Wash as one of the best facial cleansers for acne and pimples.

4) Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

This gel cleanser is perfect for those with dry, acne-prone skin. Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is formulated with natural ingredients like papaya, chamomile, and vitamins A and E, this sulfate-free cleanser effectively washes away dirt, oil, and impurities without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry.

The star ingredient of this acne cleanser is hyaluronic acid, which works wonders to hydrate and plump up the skin. The gel texture of the cleanser glides smoothly onto the skin and transforms into a light foam that gently cleanses without irritation. The best part? This facial cleanser is cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great choice for those who care about clean beauty.

If you’re looking for the best face wash for acne and pimple-prone skin, the Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is definitely worth considering. Incorporate it into your daily skincare routine to achieve a radiant, youthful-looking complexion.

5) Differin Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Face Wash

Best Face Wash For Acne And Pimple

If you’re looking for a face wash that works hard to rid your pores of acne-causing bacteria, the Differin Daily Deep Cleanser might just be what you need. This cleanser contains 5% benzoyl peroxide, which is just as effective as 10% benzoyl peroxide, but with less irritation and dryness. This means that you can get the same acne-fighting benefits without having to deal with the discomfort that higher concentrations can cause.

What’s more, the Differin Daily Deep Cleanser has a dual-action, micronized formula that penetrates deep into the skin to absorb excess oil, while releasing a gentle moisturizer that won’t clog pores. This means that you can enjoy a deep, powerful cleanse that won’t strip your skin of its natural moisture.

This dermatologist-developed formula is also great for daily use, which means that you can incorporate it into your regular skincare routine without worrying about over-drying your skin or causing irritation.

Overall, if you’re looking for a face wash that can effectively treat acne without leaving your skin feeling dry or irritated, the Differin Daily Deep Cleanser is definitely worth trying.

6) Trader Joe’s Nourish All In One Facial Cleanser

Best Face Wash For Acne And Pimple

This facial cleanser is gentle yet effective, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. It won’t strip your skin of its natural oils, which can actually cause more redness and irritation. Instead, it washes away impurities while treating your face to a feast of antioxidants, leaving your skin feeling clean, smooth, and cared for.

What’s great about this acne cleanser is that  It’s perfect for use with prescription topical acne medications, which can be very drying and irritating already. The gentle formula won’t interfere with your medication’s effectiveness and will help keep your skin moisturized.

Overall, this is one of the best facial cleansers for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It simplifies your skincare routine by providing multiple benefits in one bottle, making it a convenient and effective choice for those looking to keep their skin healthy and glowing.

7) Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser

Best Face Wash For Acne And Pimple

This lightweight cleanser is a good option for pregnant women who are looking for a safe and effective way to cleanse their skin.

It contains glycolic acid, which is a key anti-acne ingredient that is generally considered safe during pregnancy in low concentrations. The cleanser helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores, making it an excellent option for women who are dealing with acne during pregnancy.

However, it is still recommended to check with your OB-GYN prior to using any new skincare products during pregnancy. With Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser, pregnant women can safely and effectively manage their acne without worrying about harmful side effects.

8) Eau Thermale Avène Antirougeurs Fort Soothing Concentrate Calming Redness Cream

Best Face Wash For Acne And Pimple

The Avene Antirougeurs Fort Relief Concentrate is a great choice for those looking for a gentle yet effective solution.

The creamy wash contains two key ingredients, dextran sulfate and ruscus extract, which work together to reduce redness and inflammation. As a vasoconstrictor, ruscus extract can help reduce the size and appearance of blood vessels beneath the skin. Meanwhile, dextran sulfate works to minimize swelling and inflammation.

Not only is this product effective at relieving acne rosacea symptoms, but it’s also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause further breakouts.

Overall, if you’re looking for a gentle yet effective cleanser to relieve redness and irritation caused by acne rosacea, the Avene Antirougeurs FORT Relief Concentrate is definitely worth considering.

9) Bioré Charcoal Acne Clearing Facial Cleanser

The Bioré Charcoal Acne Daily Cleanser is a great option for those looking for a deep-cleaning face wash that targets acne and blackheads. The cleanser combines natural charcoal, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid to effectively exfoliate the skin and remove dirt, toxins, and acne-causing bacteria from the pores.

This face wash helps clear existing acne and prevent future breakouts, making it perfect for oily skin types.

The charcoal in this cleanser has antiseptic properties and absorbs impurities from the skin. Additionally, the combination of salicylic acid and glycolic acid work together to promote essential exfoliation and get deep into the pores.

The formula is dermatologist tested and oil-free, and is suitable for daily use.

It is worth noting that while charcoal is not an exfoliant, it can still benefit the skin by reducing inflammation associated with acne.

Using this face wash as part of your daily skin care routine can help to keep your skin clear, healthy, and balanced. It is recommended to use daily, but if any irritation occurs, it is suggested to reduce usage. With Bioré Charcoal Acne Daily Cleanser, you can say goodbye to blemishes and hello to beautiful, healthy-looking skin.

10) iS Clinical Cleansing Complex Face Wash

If you’re someone who struggles with acne-prone skin, then the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex may be worth a try. This gentle, yet effective face wash helps to clear up blemishes without stripping the skin of its natural oils. With a blend of salicylic acid, chamomile, and antioxidants, this cleanser works to unclog pores, soothe inflammation, and protect against environmental damage.

What sets this cleanser apart is its ability to work well for all skin types. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex is formulated to gently exfoliate and cleanse without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry. Plus, the clear gel texture makes it easy to apply and rinse off, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed.

To get the most out of this product, use it twice daily as part of your skincare routine.

Overall, if you’re looking for a cleanser that effectively cleanses your skin while helping to prevent breakouts, iS Clinical Cleansing Complex is definitely worth trying. It may be on the pricier side, but a little goes a long way, so it’s definitely a great investment for those struggling with acne-prone skin.

11) Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

This cleanser is specifically formulated for sensitive skin, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a gentle, effective face wash for acne. It’s also free of common irritants like fragrances, dyes, and parabens, so you can trust that you’re not exposing your skin to unnecessary chemicals.

What really sets this cleanser apart, though, is its unique ceramide blend. These essential lipids help protect the skin barrier and lock in moisture, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy complexion. Plus, the addition of pyrithione zinc helps soothe itchy, irritated skin, making this cleanser a great option for those dealing with eczema or other skin conditions.

Overall, if you’re looking for the best facial cleanser for acne-prone, sensitive skin, I highly recommend giving Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser a try. It’s affordable, effective, and gentle, making it a standout product in the crowded skincare market.

12) St. Ives Acne Control Daily Face Cleanser

St. Ives Acne Control Face Cleanser is an effective daily face wash that helps combat acne with a combination of salicylic acid and tea tree extract. This cleanser is designed to be tough on blackheads and whiteheads, while also preventing them from coming back. The salicylic acid helps to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, while the tea tree extract helps to decrease inflammation and minimize excess oil on the skin.

One of the standout features of St. Ives Acne Control Face Cleanser is that it is oil-free and dermatologist tested, making it suitable for all skin types, including those with oily or acne-prone skin. Furthermore, the bottle is made with 100% recycled plastic, making it an eco-friendly choice. Additionally, the fact that St. Ives does not test on animals anywhere in the world and is certified by PETA makes it a cruelty-free option for conscious consumers.

In summary, St. Ives Acne Control Face Cleanser is a great option for those looking for an effective, natural acne-fighting solution. With its combination of salicylic acid and tea tree extract, it helps keep skin clear and healthy while also being gentle and suitable for all skin types.

FAQs

1. Can Face Washes Really Get Rid Of Acne And Pimples?

Face washes can be a helpful part of a skincare routine for preventing and treating acne and pimples, but they may not be enough on their own. It’s important to also use other acne-fighting products and to maintain a healthy skincare routine.

 2. How Does Acne Face Wash Work

Acne face wash works by removing excess oil and other pore-clogging impurities that can lead to buildup on the skin. When the face is washed with a cleanser designed for acne-prone skin, it helps to break down and remove sweat, dead skin cells, makeup, and bacteria.
Additionally, many acne face washes contain active ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide that can penetrate the pores and help to prevent acne breakouts. These active ingredients can also work to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells that can contribute to clogged pores. Some acne face washes may also include skin-soothing ingredients like ceramides, which can help to reduce redness and irritation.

3. Can Face Washes Cause Acne Or Make It Worse?

Some face washes can be too harsh and strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to irritation and potentially causing more acne. It’s important to choose a gentle face wash that won’t dry out the skin or clog pores.

4. What Is Benzoyl Peroxide And How Does It Work To Fight Acne?

Benzoyl peroxide is an ingredient commonly found in acne treatments. It works by killing the bacteria that cause acne, as well as reducing inflammation.

5. Is It Safe To Use A Face Wash With Benzoyl Peroxide Every Day?

It depends on the strength of the benzoyl peroxide and how sensitive your skin is. Differin Daily Deep Cleanser contains only 5 percent benzoyl peroxide, which makes it safe for daily use. However, if you experience any irritation or dryness, you may want to reduce the frequency of use or switch to a gentler formula.

Abhijit Sarkar

Abhijit Sarkar

Abhijit Sarkar is a passionate automobile engineer and part-time content writer. With his deep interest in skincare and hair care, he brings a unique perspective to the world of beauty. Abhijit's expertise lies in dissecting the science behind various hair and skin problems, providing effective solutions, and sharing practical tips for a healthy and radiant appearance. As a meticulous researcher, he delves into the intricacies of beneficial and harmful ingredients, empowering readers to make informed choices. Through his engaging articles, Abhijit aims to simplify the complexities of hair and skincare, helping readers unlock their true beauty potential.

For Your Further Reading

Shopping Basket