What to Buy Skincare Products The 16 Best Face Washes for Acne of 2024, Tested and Dermatologist-Approved Dermatologist-approved and editor-tested picks for a cleaner complexion By Nicole Cain ND, MA Nicole Cain ND, MA Nicole Cain ND, MA, is an Arizona-based integrative physician. She is the founder of the Holistic Wellness Collective, which focuses on teaching you how to be your own health expert. In addition to physical holistic wellness, Dr. Cain has a particular passion for mental health and is the author of the forthcoming book PANIC PROOF. health's editorial guidelines and Lauren Paige Richeson Lauren Paige Richeson Lauren Paige Richeson is a health writer and commerce editor at Verywell. She's the author of Avocado Obsession Cookbook and covers a wide range of lifestyle and wellness topics for some of the world's most popular publications. health's editorial guidelines Updated on March 20, 2024 Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD Susan Bard, MD, is a board-certified general and procedural dermatologist with the American Board of Dermatology and a Fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery. learn more In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Our Testing Process Our Experts What To Know What You Can Expect to Pay for a Quality Face Wash for Acne Your Questions, Answered Who We Are We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Health / Jessica Juliao If you experience acne, blemishes, pimples, or zits, you’re in the company of over 50 million people in the United States. Beyond impacting your emotional well-being, acne can cause physical pain, scarring and can even result in infections of the skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, clearing acne starts with your skincare regimen. The best face washes for acne typically contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, advises Dr. Anthony Nuara, a board-certified dermatologist. He recommends ceramides for dry and sensitive skin to protect the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and niacinamide to control oil production while cautioning against alcohol-based cleansers for oily skin. In the Health lab, we tested over 30 of the most popular face washes for different skin concerns such as sensitivity, discoloration, dryness, and anti-aging. We evaluated them based on effectiveness, ease of use, ingredients, consistency, and overall experience. We also had a dermatologist from our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical and scientific accuracy. According to our tests, here is a list of the best face washes for acne on the market today, so you can enjoy healthy and beautiful skin, no matter your skin type. Our Top Picks Best Overall: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser at Amazon ($16) Jump to Review Best for Sensitive Skin: Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser at Amazon ($9) Jump to Review Best for Oily Skin: Hyper Skin Hyper Even Cleansing Gel at Sephora ($28) Jump to Review Best for Dry Skin: Paula’s Choice Resist Optimal Results Cleanser at Amazon ($23) Jump to Review Best for Combination Skin: KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser at Amazon ($18) Jump to Review Best for Acne Rosacea: EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser at Amazon ($35) Jump to Review Best for Cystic Acne: Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA Cleanser at Amazon ($35) Jump to Review Best for Eczema: First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser at Sephora ($12) Jump to Review Best for Teen Acne: Hero Cosmetics Gentle Milky Cleanser at Amazon ($15) Jump to Review Best for Pregnancy Acne: Dr. Loretta Gentle Hydrating Cleanser at Dermstore ($40) Jump to Review Best Overall CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser Amazon View On Amazon $16 View On Target $6 View On Ulta $18 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Why We Like It CeraVe's Hydrating Cream Cleanser earns our top spot as the best overall acne face wash. Esteemed by dermatologists, it effectively removes dirt and makeup while preserving essential skin oils. It's an affordable, readily available option suitable for various skin concerns, and it avoids unnecessary additives like fragrances and harsh chemicals and we liked its daily usability. When we dispensed the product, we found it effortless, with a single pump delivering the perfect amount. Its creamy, jelly-like consistency feels gentle and strikes a balance between thickness and lightness, resulting in a smooth, easily spreadable formula that provides a simple, even lather. What's impressive is that this face wash is free from noticeable fragrance and irritation, which we appreciate. It efficiently removed makeup and grime in a single cleanse, rinsing cleanly without residue. It impressively cleanses while retaining our skin's natural moisture, leaving our face soft, hydrated, and refreshed. We loved how our skin felt after using it, our skin appeared clearer with minimized pores and enhanced evenness with a rejuvenated feel. It’s Worth Noting While it effectively cleanses and hydrates the skin, it may not provide deep exfoliation for those looking to specifically target blackheads or stubborn acne. Product Details: Active Ingredients: 3 Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, GlycerinTexture: Non-Foaming, Cream Size: 12 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Sensitive Skin Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser Amazon View On Amazon $9 View On Target View On Walgreens $12 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 4.2/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 3/5 Why We Like It Sensitive skin can make it hard to find a reliable cleanser, especially for clearing away stubborn acne. If you’re looking for a facial cleanser that is formulated with red, irritated skin in mind, we picked the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser as our choice in our tests. This fragrance-free and non-comedogenic cleanser is specially designed to cater to sensitive skin, offering a mild yet effective cleansing experience. We found this facial cleanser to be incredibly gentle and effective. Applying and spreading the cleanser was a breeze; it didn't feel tacky to the touch and glided smoothly across the skin. Washing off the product was hassle-free, and it didn't leave the skin feeling tight or dry; in fact, it provided a sense of hydration. Our skin felt moisturized and soft after using the cleanser, and we appreciated its simplicity and absence of harmful ingredients. It’s Worth Noting While it cleansed our skin well, we noticed traces of makeup remained in the creases of fine lines and pores, so a makeup remover might be necessary for a deeper cleanse. Product Details: Active Ingredients: GlycerineTexture: Cream Size: 8 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Oily Skin Hyper Skin Hyper Even Cleansing Gel Sephora View On Sephora $28 View On Hyperskin.com $28 View On Revolve $28 Our Ratings Ease of Use 4.8/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 4.9/5 Hydration 4.8/5 Appearance 5/5 Why We Like It Our top choice for the best face wash for oily skin is the Hyper Skin Gentle Brightening Cleansing Gel because of its natural active ingredients. It strikes a perfect balance for those with acne-prone skin, effectively cleansing without overstripping dry areas while addressing oily ones. When we dispensed the cleanser, a gentle squeeze produced a dime-sized, round jelly orb. It had a clear, translucent color, a putty-like texture, and a gelatinous consistency, neither too solid nor overly runny. When we applied, it felt gentle, barely noticeable, and lightweight on the skin. As we lathered, it transformed from a gel into a viscous, milky cream that spread easily. The cleanser had a pleasant floral/fruity scent that wasn't overpowering or irritating, even when applied directly to our eyelids and lashes. While it successfully removed makeup, it required a second cleanse for complete foundation removal. However, it washed off effortlessly without leaving any residue, leaving our skin brighter, refreshed, and hydrated. It’s Worth Noting It may leave the skin feeling slightly dry after use, making it important to use a moisturizer to maintain hydration. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Mandelic Acid, Willow Bark, Licorice RootTexture: Liquid Gel Size: 5 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Dry Skin Paula’s Choice Resist Optimal Results Cleanser Paula's Choice View On Amazon $23 View On Dermstore $23 View On Paulaschoice.com $23 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 4/5 Why We Like It We selected Paula’s Choice Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser as our top choice for dry skin due to its ability to effectively cleanse and rejuvenate without causing dryness. Additionally, the inclusion of gentle ingredients like green tea and chamomile helps soothe sensitivity and reduce redness, making this hydrating cleanser suitable for both morning and nighttime skincare routines. Its smooth and satin-like consistency made application easy, requiring minimal effort. The gentle formula provided a light, non-irritating cleansing experience, like a soothing massage, and was gentle on the eyes. We like its pleasant fragrance that doesn't irritate our skin. We liked that this cleanser removed makeup, including undereye concealer and foundation, in a single wipe, leaving the skin feeling fresh and moisturized. It effectively cleaned without clogging pores, and its easy rinse-off left no heavy or mucky residue. It’s Worth Noting It contains citric acid, which may cause slight redness or irritation for some individuals with sensitive skin. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Soapberry, Green Tea, ChamomileTexture: Non-foaming lotion Size: 6.4 ozMedicated: No Best for Combination Skin KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser KraveBeauty View On Amazon $18 View On Kravebeauty.com $16 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Why We Like It The KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser is an ideal choice for those with combination skin. Its unique formula cleanses and maintains hydration, a crucial need for acne-prone combination skin types that deal with both oily and dry areas. The match, hemp seed oil, and sodium PCA formula is packed with antioxidant properties, Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids. The gel-to-cream transformation caters to different skin needs - the gel effectively dissolves excess oil and impurities, while the cream aspect nourishes and hydrates. This dual action ensures that the skin is cleansed without being stripped of its natural moisture, making it a top pick for those seeking to manage the diverse requirements of combination skin. We didn't detect any significant scent, and the dark green gel felt lightweight and had a cooling effect, rejuvenating our skin. The cleanser left our skin feeling hydrated and glowing, though we still followed up with a moisturizer. Our skin appeared brighter and less clogged, feeling moisturized, refreshed, and clean. It’s Worth Noting Although effective in general cleansing, it might not completely remove all makeup in a single wash, so an additional cleansing step may be needed. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Matcha, Hemp Seed Oil, Sodium PCATexture: GelSize: 4 ozMedicated: No Best for Acne Rosacea EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser Amazon View On Amazon $35 View On Dermstore $35 View On Walmart $27 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 4.8/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 4.8/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Why We Like It Acne rosacea is commonly associated with redness, heat, tightening, and irritation of the skin. When searching for the ideal face wash to address the unique concerns of Acne Rosacea, our testing revealed that EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser stands out as a top choice. It features a pH-balanced, oil free formula with bromelain and apple amino acid blend that works as an anti-inflammatory and reduces redness. This rich, thick foam cleanser felt luxurious on our skin, providing a gentle yet effective cleansing experience without any harsh sensations. Its mild scent, reminiscent of gentle soap, contributed to a soothing and refreshing cleansing experience. The fragrance was subtly pleasant without being overpowering or irritating to our sensitive skin. This cleanser effectively removed face makeup and eyeshadow, leaving only waterproof mascara behind, which was expected. It rinsed off cleanly, leaving our skin feeling refreshed and clean without any excessive dryness or tightness. It’s Worth Noting It may not effectively remove heavy or waterproof makeup, requiring the use of a separate makeup remover. Product Details: Active Ingredients: BromelainTexture: FoamSize: 7 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Cystic Acne Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA Cleanser Sephora View On Amazon $35 View On Sephora $10 View On Skinfix.com $35 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 4/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 4.5/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Why We Like It Cystic acne causes painful, pus-filled acne deep under the skin that can be frustrating and difficult to get rid of. According to the dermatologists we consulted, the most important ingredient for this particular kind of blemish is 2% salicylic acid. Salicylic acid exfoliates skin to encourage quicker healing of acne while soothing painful and inflamed skin. The Skinfix Azelaic Acid BHA/AHA Cleanser proved to be the best for cystic acne-prone skin in our tests because it features a blend of powerful ingredients, including 2% salicylic acid (BHA) azelaic acid and niacinamide. It targets all forms of acne, including Malassezia folliculitis (i.e. fungal acne). What impressed us the most was its effectiveness. It effortlessly provided a thorough cleanse, and rinsing it off was a breeze. Despite containing BHA, known for potential drying effects, it didn't overly strip or dry our skin but left our skin feeling clean and refreshed. The cleanser has a super liquidy and thin texture, but when water is added, it turns into a gentle, easy-to-spread formula with a nice slip with a subtle and non-irritating fragrance. It’s Worth Noting While it effectively cleanses the skin, its heavy-duty formulation can be stripping and drying for some. Product Details: Active Ingredients: 2% Salicylic Acid, 2% Niacinamide, 1% Azelaic Acid Texture: Foaming gelSize: 6.76 fl ozMedicated: Yes Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Eczema First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser Amazon View On Sephora $12 View On Firstaidbeauty.com View On Anthropologie $24 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 4/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Why We Like It Eczema-prone skin requires a cleanser that is soothing and non-irritating, and out of the products we tested, First Aid Beauty's Pure Skin Face Cleanser fits the bill perfectly. Its effective cleansing ability ensures the removal of irritants without stripping the skin of its natural oils, which is crucial for maintaining the delicate moisture balance needed by eczema-affected skin. The absence of a strong fragrance and the inclusion of skin-friendly ingredients minimize the risk of irritation, making it suitable for acne-prone skin types. We were delighted with this cleanser's creamy, frosting-like consistency that felt smooth and gentle on the skin. The minimal scent was a big plus; it was clean but without any overpowering fragrance. It excelled in removing makeup, leaving our skin feeling exceptionally clean, although it slightly struggled with waterproof mascara. The cleanser rinsed off easily without leaving residue, and it didn’t leave our skin feeling overly dry after use. This cleanser's ability to provide thorough cleaning while being gentle and non-drying makes it a great option for those managing eczema. It’s Worth Noting The lather tends to dry out during the washing process, so additional water might need to be added frequently to complete a full face wash. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Aloe, Allantoin, GlycerinTexture: CreamSize: 5 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Teen Acne Hero Cosmetics Gentle Milky Cleanser Amazon View On Amazon $15 View On Herocosmetics.us Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 4.9/5 Cleansing Ability 4.7/5 Hydration 4.7/5 Appearance 5/5 Why We Like It One of the best ways for anyone to see results from any product for acne-prone skin is consistent use—this is especially true for teens. The Hero Cosmetics Sensitive Face Cleanser is our pick for the go-to choice for teens seeking a product that effectively cleanses, hydrates, and rejuvenates the skin, all while being gentle enough to respect the unique needs of their developing skin. Teenage skin often battles with hormonal changes that can lead to acne, oiliness, and sensitivity. The Hero Cosmetics cleanser addresses these concerns head-on. Unlike harsher products that can strip young, sensitive skin of essential oils, this cleanser maintains the delicate balance needed for healthy skin. We found the cleanser had a creamy and slightly sticky texture, but it was easy to apply and glide onto our skin. It felt gentle and seemed rich in moisturizing oils. It was effective in removing dirt, grime, and makeup. The creamy formula deeply penetrated our pores, leaving our skin feeling moisturized and rejuvenated. We also appreciated its unscented formula, which didn't cause any irritation. Post-use, our skin felt lighter, cleansed, and refreshed, with a noticeable brightness and smoothness. It’s Worth Noting Its slightly sticky and thick texture may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a lighter feel. Product Details: Active Ingredients: PHA, Colloidal Oatmeal, Jojoba, and CeramidesTexture: GelSize: 5.4 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Pregnancy Acne Dr. Loretta Gentle Hydrating Cleanser Saks Fifth Avenue View On Dermstore $40 View On Nordstrom $40 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $40 Our Ratings Ease of Use 4.9/5 Feel 4.9/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Why We Like It If you’re struggling with blemishes, sensitive skin, blackheads, and breakouts due to hormonal skin changes during pregnancy, you need a facial cleanser that can pamper and protect without potentially harmful ingredients such as retinoids and parabens. Dr. Loretta's Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is an excellent choice for managing pregnancy acne. Its balanced formula, which avoids harsh chemicals and incorporates soothing ingredients like chamomile, algae, and flower oil, ensures effective cleansing without irritating sensitive skin. We were highly impressed with this cleanser in our tests. Its gentle, slippery texture was perfect, providing a luxurious lather that was effortlessly spreadable. The cleanser's aroma, a marine herbal blend, was both soothing and pleasantly aromatherapeutic without being overpowering and caused no irritation. Despite concerns about potential dryness, we found our skin refreshingly hydrated post-wash. Its effectiveness in makeup removal was remarkable, leaving little to no residue on our drying towel, and it rinsed off completely without leaving any film. Our skin felt neither tight nor dry but rather cleansed and remarkably softer. We noticed our skin appeared more open, refreshed, and cleansed, with a noticeable hydration boost. Given its cleansing abilities, hydrating properties, and sulfate-free formula, we think this cleanser offers a safe and effective solution for pregnant women seeking to manage acne while nurturing their changing skin. It’s Worth Noting Although light, the fragrance might be overpowering for some, especially those with a heightened sense of smell or sensitivity to scents, a common occurrence during pregnancy. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Algin, Marine Peptides, Chamomile, GingerTexture: GelSize: 6.7 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Menopausal Acne iS Clinical Cleansing Complex Bluemercury View On Amazon $48 View On Dermstore $48 View On Walmart $29 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 4.8/5 Cleansing Ability 4.9/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Why We Like It As skin ages, it becomes more fragile, loses elasticity, and becomes more prone to discoloration, changes in texture, and irritation—including acne. While acne is most associated with changing hormones in adolescence and young adulthood, those same hormones are to blame for menopausal breakouts. The iS Clinical Cleansing Complex is an exceptional choice for mature skin, designed with antioxidants such as Centella Asiatica and chamomile flower with botanical BHAs and AHAs to rejuvenate and support optimal skin health. Its unique formula, which transforms from a slightly sticky consistency to a smooth and soft gel, is perfect for addressing the common concerns of dryness and texture irregularities in mature skin. This type of skin often requires a delicate balance of thorough cleansing without stripping away essential moisture, which we felt this cleanser achieves admirably.This gel-like cleanser excelled in removing dirt, washing off easily without leaving any residue, a notable plus for us. The scent was light and clean, subtle yet pleasant. Our skin felt neither tight nor dry. Instead, it was more moisturized with a smoother complexion. Our skin appeared brighter, felt more open, and didn't seem clogged, leaving us feeling moisturized, refreshed, and clean. Additionally, the subtle rejuvenation effect, resulting in brighter and more open-looking skin, makes it an ideal cleanser for those seeking to maintain a youthful and refreshed appearance. It’s Worth Noting It may not provide enough hydration for those with extremely dry or mature skin. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Centella Asiatica, Chamomile flower, Sugarcane, Willowtree bark Texture: GelSize: 6 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Hyperpigmentation Kopari Lychee Clean Vitamin C Face Cleanser Amazon View On Amazon $21 View On Nordstrom $21 View On Ulta $24 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Why We Like It Kopari Lychee Clean Vitamin C Foaming Face Cleanser is our choice for those with acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation. Infused with Vitamin C, a key ingredient renowned for its skin-brightening properties, this cleanser is particularly beneficial in addressing hyperpigmentation issues often associated with acne scars. The antioxidant properties of Vitamin C help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production, leading to a more even and radiant complexion.We love its light, soft, and fluffy consistency, which provides a luxurious foam sensation, making our skin feel gently soothed without any stickiness or thickness. The foam was easy to apply, and its tropical scent added to the soothing experience. Rinsing off the cleanser was a breeze, leaving our skin brighter and rejuvenated without any residue. Impressively, the cleanser effectively removed all our mascara and morning lotion in just one application, with no need for a second cleanse. Our skin felt hydrated and smooth after use. The ample bottle size, requiring just one pump per wash, makes it a practical and valuable addition to any skincare regimen for those tackling the dual challenges of acne and hyperpigmentation. It’s Worth Noting Although the tropical scent is appealing, individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to fragrances might experience irritation or discomfort. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Vitamin C, Vitamin B5, AllantoinTexture: FoamSize: 5.1 ozMedicated: No Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Blackhead Removal Fenty Beauty Cherry Dub Superfine Daily Cleansing Face Scrub Fenty View On Fentybeauty.com Our Ratings Consistency 4.5/5 Distribution 5/5 Exfoliation 5/5 Application 5/5 Skin Look & Feel 5/5 Why We Like It The Fenty Skin Cherry Dub Superfine Daily Cleansing Face Scrub emerged as the top choice for effective blackhead removal in our tests. Staying true to its brand description, this scrub mimics the appearance and texture of cherry jam, boasting a vibrant purple-red hue that's visually appealing. The texture is delightfully thick, akin to old-fashioned jam with seeds, adhering to the skin like putty for an effective exfoliation experience. As you massage it in, the scrub transforms from a sticky jam-like consistency to a soft creaminess. It's noncomedogenic and easy to apply evenly across the face, thanks to its sticky consistency. The gentle exfoliating sugar crystals are noticeable but not abrasive, leaving skin smooth and refreshed without any irritation. A subtle cherry scent enhances the experience without overwhelming the senses. With consistent use, our skin's texture improved, becoming plump and well-hydrated. This scrub integrates seamlessly into a nightly skincare routine, offering a straightforward yet highly effective path to silky-smooth skin and a radiant complexion. It’s Worth Noting While gentle, this face scrub contains physical exfoliants in the form of sugar crystals which may not be suitable for those with very sensitive or easily irritated skin. Product Details Active Ingredients: Barbados cherry (Acerola), Cranberry, Pomegranate, Papaya, and Pineapple Enzymes, Caffeine, Sugar and Silica ExfoliantsTexture: GelSize: 3.4 ozMedicated: No Health / Danielle Ransom Health / Danielle Ransom Health / Danielle Ransom Health / Danielle Ransom Best with Glycolic Acid SkinCeuticals Purifying Cleanser Dermstore View On Dermstore $39 View On Skinceuticals.com $39 View On Skinstore.com $39 Our Ratings Ease of Use 4.8/5 Feel 4.9/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 4/5 Why We Like It Glycolic acid, derived from sugar cane, is a versatile solution for addressing both acne and signs of aging. We chose Skinceuticals Purifying Cleanser as our top choice among glycolic acid-infused face washes for those seeking hydration and acne control. In addition to cleansing, it also addresses signs of aging, such as pigmentation and wrinkles, through a blend of botanicals, exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids, and anti-aging beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). This liquid gel cleanser transforms into a foamy texture when in contact with water. Its thin, gel-like consistency gave us a gentle yet thorough cleanse. It boasts a pleasing, clean scent without any overpowering fragrances. Skinceuticals' cleanser efficiently dissolves dirt and residue, leaving skin softer and less oily without causing dryness. A single wash was all we needed for a complete cleanse, and it rinsed off cleanly. Its water-based formula, a rare find among cleansers, proved to be both nourishing and cleansing. It effectively reduced oiliness and left skin feeling remarkably soft, cleansed, and hydrated. It’s Worth Noting Glycolic and salicylic acid can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so this wash is best used with sunscreen. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, GlycerinTexture: GelSize: 6.8 ozMedicated: Yes Health / Jessica Juliao Best with Benzoyl Peroxide PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Amazon View On Amazon $9 View On Target $10 View On Walgreens $13 Our Ratings Consistency 4.5/5 Hydration 4/5 Cleansing Ability 4/5 Effectiveness 4.5/5 Why We Like It If you need quick results fighting stubborn acne breakouts, dermatologists recommend 4% benzoyl peroxide, which can quickly eliminate acne and prevent new lesions from forming. PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash is our pick if you're in need of a medicated face wash to target acne and breakouts. It's a potent acne-fighting solution containing 10% benzoyl peroxide, making it one of the highest concentrations available without a prescription. We love that it has a fragrance-free formula, which reduces the risk of skin irritation for those with acne-prone skin. This foaming wash has a thick gel consistency with a creamy texture, making it gentle and easy to apply. It removed a full face of foundation in a single use and left our skin feeling clean and hydrated. It’s Worth Noting It's important to be cautious when using this product daily, as the high concentration of Benzoyl peroxide may potentially strip the skin of moisture, so it may not be suitable for people with dry skin. Product Details: Active Ingredients: 10% Benzoyl PeroxideTexture: Foaming creamSize: 5.5 ozMedicated: Yes Health / Jessica Juliao Best Drugstore Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser Walmart View On Amazon $14 View On Target $4 View On Walmart $9 Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Feel 5/5 Cleansing Ability 5/5 Hydration 5/5 Appearance 4.5/5 Why We Like It Cetaphil's Gentle Skin Cleanser—a go-to brand for dermatologists—proves that you don’t have to leave the drugstore to get effective skin care for acne, eczema, and sensitive skin. Celebrated for its mild and effective cleansing properties, it's our pick for an affordable face wash for acne-prone skin due to its non-irritating, non-comedogenic, gentle formula that cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural oils and ensures that it doesn't clog pores, a key factor in preventing acne breakouts. We loved the gel-like appearance but the lotion-like creaminess of this cleanser. This unique texture made for a gentle and spa-like experience, free from stickiness or thickness, and felt reminiscent of high-end moisturizing cream. While we couldn't recall a strong scent, there may have been a subtle sweetness. Regardless, it didn't lead to any irritation and harmonized well with our skin. In terms of cleansing effectiveness, it left us with a refreshed and awakened look to our skin. It rinsed off easily with a few splashes of water, and after, our skin felt moisturized, reducing the need for additional lotion. This face wash delivers a clean, refreshed, and well-hydrated feeling. Its suitability for all skin types, including sensitive skin, makes it a versatile cleanser that can be integrated into any skincare routine aimed at managing and preventing acne. It’s Worth Noting It's great for sensitive and acne-prone skin, but those with very oily skin might find it not strong enough to effectively reduce excess oiliness. Product Details: Active Ingredients: Glycerin, Niacinamide, Vitamin B5Texture: CreamSize: 8 ozMedicated: No Our Testing Process To identify the best facial cleansers for acne, we researched the many acne face washes on the market, taking into consideration ingredients, sustainability, accessibility, and cost. Then, a group of Health team members who have acne-prone skin tested over three dozen face wash products in The Lab.Wearing minimal to no make-up, testers selected a face wash based on their skin type and concerns. They washed their face following the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging, noting the consistency, ease of use, how well it cleansed their skin, fragrance, as well as how it made their skin feel. We compiled the results of the test to recommend the best face washes for acne based on our findings and offered a range of skin cleanser types so you can find the one that best suits your needs and your budget. Our Experts We also consulted with the following dermatologists about the differences between acne facial cleansers and the ingredients they contain: Anthony Nuara, MD, Ph.D., a board-certified dermatologist Victoria Lofdahl, ND, a physician with expertise in integrative dermatology Tressa Pinkleton, ND, an integrative and naturopathic physician who specializes in holistic dermatology Rita Balyan, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant who specializes in dermatology Dipa S. Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist What to Know About Face Washes for Acne When shopping for an acne face wash, you’re going to want to keep three important ingredients in mind: ceramides to protect the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and niacinamide to control oil production. When buying a skin cleanser for acne, you should pay attention to the ingredients. For acne-prone skin, look for products containing retinol or salicylic acid to clean up the pores; for dry and sensitive skin, you’re going to want ceramides, and across the board, avoid cleansers with alcohol, especially for oily skin because that will just amp up oil production, says Rita Balyan, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant who specializes in dermatology. Dipa S. Patel, MD, adds to Balyan’s recommendations, advising cleansers containing vitamins C and E to protect the skin from free radical damage, improve the texture and skin tone, and enhance the skin’s bright, youthful appearance. Victoria Lofdahl, ND, a physician with expertise in integrative dermatology, says to avoid facial cleansers that have parabens and fragrances. What You Can Expect to Pay for a Quality Face Wash for Acne You can typically expect to pay less than $10 for a face wash for acne, particularly products that are widely available. We’ve included a few more specialty products here, including True Botanicals’ Renew Nourishing Cleanser and Revision Skincare’s Brightening Facial Wash—at $48 and $40, respectively—which are more expensive than more common brands. Our least expensive pick was the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser at $9. Your Questions, Answered How does acne face wash work? Face wash for acne works by reducing the presence of oil and other pore-clogging impurities that can cause buildup on the skin. By washing your face, especially with a cleanser designed for your skin type, you’re breaking down leftover sweat, dead skin, makeup, and even bacteria. Many acne face washes also contain skin-soothing ingredients like ceramides that help to reduce redness and irritation or acids that work to break down blemishes under the skin. What’s the best way to use face wash for acne? The best way to use face wash for acne is by following the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves using your cleanser twice a day, in the morning and evening. You should also follow cleansing with a moisturizer, even if you have oily skin. Cleansers can dry out skin, which can cause additional oil production and worsening acne if the skin isn’t properly moisturized. Who We Are Nicole Cain ND, MA, is an Arizona-based integrative physician. She is the founder of the Holistic Wellness Collective, which focuses on teaching you how to be your own health expert. In addition to physical holistic wellness, Dr. Cain has a particular passion for mental health and is the author of the forthcoming book PANIC PROOF. She can be found at DrNicoleCain.com. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit 4 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Skin conditions by the numbers. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Acne: Tips for managing. Cleveland Clinic. What you need to know about aging skin. American Academy of Dermatology Association. 9 things to try when acne won’t clear.