Best Face Wash for Acne


Standout Picks




















Criteria Used for Evaluation
Effectiveness
Cleansers, as the starting step in acne fighting, need to provide the foundation towards complete and in-depth cleansing. However, it is a well-known fact that what is good and what really works for your skin, might not be as effective for somebody else. The market nowadays is flourishing with skincare products that offer a variety of features in the attempt to meet everyone’s needs. Those affected by the problem already know how hard it is to get the right and functional cleanser in this wide range of offers. It was an equally difficult job for us and it took some time to go through all reviews, experts opinions, and dermatological recommendations, to provide a list that will truly provide a myriad of functional and highly effective cleanser that will meet everyone’s needs. We were careful to select those that are the most reviewed, have the most five star-ratings and are proved to match the description given by the manufacturer.
Product Purity
When we talk about the purity of a certain product we take into account the chemicals and the synthetic agents used in the production. The use of such substances increases the effect of the product, however, their use must be controlled, tested and proven safe. This means that the same ingredient can different effect when used in combination with other ingredients, and these ingredients must be strictly controlled and dermatologically tested. Those products that exclude to integrate into their formulas any chemicals or synthetic products are considered the purest, such as the natural, organic products.
Features
This criterion usually involves several aspects of the products’ characteristics, such as the effectiveness of the active ingredients, the incidence of side effects, the ability to provide the desired results and how long it takes for the product to provide the desired effect. As you have noticed, some products feature natural ingredients whereas others involve synthetic chemical substances. The effect that natural products have is much more different compared to synthetic ones. Natural products are generally speaking gentler, whereas synthetic and mineral active ingredients are more aggressive in nature and start acting immediately on the problem. When it comes to side effects, natural products cause less irritation which is usually limited to an allergic reaction to some of the ingredients, whereas synthetic products could irritate the skin in different ways. When it comes to results, every product is a different story and you could see that some are claimed to provide momentous effect while others state that the effect will be visible after a certain period of time. Waiting for a product to provide the desired effect for a longer period of time is not considered to be a negative characteristic though since this kind of treatment usually provides the most durable results.
Use
The use of the product defines the target group of the users of the product and the frequency of application. As we said in the introduction, it is not only the teenagers who have problems with acne-prone and oily skin, but it is a common problem of people all age groups. Therefore, we tended to select products that will be suitable for all age groups without any limitations and which will effectuate into the same result regardless of the cause of the breakouts. The other factor related to this criterion was the frequency of use, i.e. if they are suitable to be used on a daily basis. Bearing in mind that skin cleansing is the first and most important step for better skin care, we chose products that can be used twice a day and which will keep their function effectively without causing any adverse effects.
Bottom Line
This criterion summarizes all the relevant information that constitutes the quality of the product. In addition to the criteria that we have already mentioned, this part includes the price of the cleansers and the correlation with what they provide, the long-term effect, if any, and the time it takes for visible effect. The cost and the value of the cleanser and if it matches the description provided by the manufacturer belong in this category too, so the number attached to this criterion provides these factors taken together.
Top 10 Picks
1. Vichy Normaderm


Vichy is one of the leading brands when it comes to pharmaceutical and skin care products and is trusted to provide a safe, functional and effective formula that yield healthy, clean and strong skin. All the products that come from Vichy Laboratories are tested for safety and efficiency and undergo dermatological control for safety and are considered appropriate for the most sensitive skin. By the way, did you know that Vichy products are infused with volcano thermal water which is rich in 15 miners that have been proven to effectively strengthen skin’s moisture barrier? This water has been used for centuries and comes from the preserved region of Auvergne.
Read moreProduct Features
'Normaderm' line has been made to help thousands of people worldwide who are struggling to get rid of excessive breakouts, balance the oily skin surface and soothe the over-irritation. The cleanser is based on salicylic acid that which helps remove the dead cells, provide cell turnover and clear imperfections. It has an exfoliating effect too, which makes the skin smoother and softer. In addition to salicylic acid, the cleanser contains glycolic acid and micro-exfoliating LHA that purify the skin. The 15 thermal minerals that come from the volcanic water are unique in their structure and effectiveness and are impossible to be produced in a lab. The cleanser doesn’t contain parabens, oil, and alcohol.
Benefits
Have you ever thought that your bumpy, red and infected skin could ever get a velvety and soft feel with a matte effect? If not, then you probably haven’t used Vichy Normaderm products. The company claims that by using the product you will have unclogged pores without any irritation, the sebum will be controlled and balanced and the skin imperfections will be reduced. And indeed, the testing showed that in just four weeks 90% of the women tested had visibly healthier skin and 71% experienced renewed skin texture. But it is not the research itself that is the most indicative of the effective formula of the cleanser, as the users’ comments and ratings. Many of them claim that this cleanser made more than the obvious difference in the way their skin feels and looks.
Cost and Value
Vichy Normaderm has the most unique features that no other product can boast of, making the product highly efficient and functional. It treats blemishes and pimples on sensitive skin and makes the skin smooth and protected at the same time. It comes in a large package that can be used for several months. The price itself is not very cheap, however, the effect it has, the ingredients and the unique formula, make the product high-end, so the price just reflects its quality.

2. CeraVe


This cleanser is among those that have the most five-star ratings and reviews. It is more than obvious that it does the cleansing job very well, but there’s more about this product than meets the eye. When we read about a certain product we usually see that it is natural or it contains a well-known substance that is reputed for being the best in cleansing or retaining skin balance. However, this product differs from the others because it contains three essential ceramides in its formula which play a crucial role in retaining the skin structure and density. Let’s go into details and see the features and the benefits of this product.
Read moreProduct Features
As we said, the main distinguishing characteristic that this product has is the use of three essential ceramides (1,3,6-II) which help the skin keep its structure and density and to not allow skin cells rupture as this happens as the skin grows older. Because this is a cleanser specifically made for oily skin and skin prone to breakouts, it contains Vitamin B3 which helps the skin calm down and retrieve the natural oil production, while the Hyaluronic Acid is responsible for maintaining skin’s natural moisture, without making it dry and coarse. The formula doesn’t include fragrances or parabens, it won’t clog your pores and won’t irritate the skin.
Benefits
Taking care of oily acne-prone skin is a painstaking process that usually has no effect, regardless of what you do. However, CeraVe is a cleanser that makes difference and provides in-depth cleansing which will leave your skin refreshed and bright. This line is therapeutic level skincare made with dermatologists yielding and restoring the protective barrier of the skin, making it oil-balanced and moisturized. Many cleansers make the skin too dry, however, the special patented formula of CeraVe locks the moisture in for the whole day. The outcome is a calm and fresh face which has enough moisture to keep the natural balance and less oil to make it dirty.
Cost and Value
CeraVe is a unique line of skincare products that have ceramides in their formula which are very important for keeping the skin balance, structure and texture consistent. This unique and patented formula will provide your skin superior feel of freshness and cleanness. The price itself is higher compared to other mid-range products, however, this cleanser excels in its ability to provide the maximum cleansing effect.

3. Insta Natural Glycolic Cleanser


This Florida based company is has been dedicated to creating natural skin care products without using potentially harmful chemicals or toxins. As their common belief is that beautiful skin starts with healthy skin and healthy skin is naturally-balanced skin, then it all would start with proper care based on natural ingredients. Their definition of natural is based on natural ingredients that are derived from renewable resources found in nature and do not contain any prohibited substances in any guidelines. All synthetic ingredients used in their products are safe and used only in case of absolute necessity, however, the company does try to find an appropriate natural alternative. This face wash is part of their line for treating blemishes and breakouts which has been a choice for many affected persons.
Read moreProduct Features
The Glycolic Facial Cleanser is made to penetrate deep into the pores and break down all the pus and the dirt that has been built up during the day. The cleanser contains Arginine that supports the creation of collagen and natural green tea, organic chamomile and cucumber extracts, which make the skin much softer and calmer. The formula is nourishing and oil-free which turns the dull and dehydrated skin refreshed, smoother and much cleaner. The product can be used by man and women equally and it is appropriate for any age group.
Benefits
The cleanser is effective to reduce dirt build up from pores, but it also helps to reduce the size and the visibility of pores. It is suitable for skin that is prone to irritation, blackheads, cystic acne and redness resulting in much more radiant and nourished skin. You will notice gradual reducing of patches and pesky dry flakes. Besides this, if you suffer from stubborn acne, this cleanser has been proven to be highly effective. For best results, it is advisable to remove any makeup on your face before using the product.
Cost and Value
Insta Natural is rising in popularity due to the company’s clear vision to bring nature to people’s skin. Many people have felt the benefits of their natural products and gladly share their experience. The glycol cleanser has helped them restore and rejuvenate their skin, making it softer and smoother. Because of the natural and organic ingredients this cleanser has, the price is higher compared to ordinary cleanser, however, this cleanser is far from being ordinary.

4. Bioderma Foaming Gel


Bioderma is a science-based French line that is based on more than 40 years of research to provide sustainable results from their products. Their mission is to figure out the principles upon which healthy skin works so that those principles can be implemented in their products. The prime goal they have is to understand the causes so that they can fight the problems. Thus, they have been working with medical scientists, biologists, and dermatologists to provide the best solution for problematic skin. Their clinical trials consider all possible factors from skin tolerance to skin insensitivity.
Read moreProduct Features
Inspired by nature to mimic nature, this gel is ultra-gentle and made to purify oily or combination skin. It contains zinc sulfate and copper sulfate, two active ingredients that can penetrate deep into the pores and purify and protect them from being clogged. This is a new generation of anti-blemish products that are soap-free, but which act directly on sebum because of the Fluidactiv, a patented Sebo-correcting complex that is found in all ranges of their products. It is suitable for combination, oily and sensitive skin thanks to the non-irritating substances and can be used twice a day.
Benefits
The ultimate goal of Bioderma has been to create products that will increase skin tolerance, health and protective barrier for a long-lasting effect. This cleanser has been made to enhance the skin’s natural defense mechanism and to regulate skin balance. The active ingredients make it possible because the result from using the cleanser is clean, purified and toned skin. Many satisfied buyers' claims that the cleanser matches the description and it will make your skin shine-free and nurtured.
Cost and Value
As we have tried to exhaust the search and provide you with the best products of each existing type, this one fitted in terms of being innovatively versatile and contains a unique combination of ingredients that make the face cleansing process truly effective. So, if you have tried all other options, this is a fresh offer which will hopefully meet the needs of your skin type. In addition to being a new generation of a product, it has a price tag that won’t have much influence on your budget.

5. Cetaphil PRO Oil Removing Wash


Our list includes different type of face wash and cleansers in terms of ingredients, the technology they feature and how the act. This cleanser has been made by Cetaphil company which has been successfully present in the world of cosmetics for many years. The company can boast more than 135 awards for innovation in the area of skin care and has patented technologies that promote safe skin healing. The Proline is designed to soothe and calm redness and irritated skin and this washer help getting rid of unwanted oil and blemishes.
Read moreProduct Features
As with many other products, this face wash has been produced with contemporary technology that involves zinc combination that is known to help soothe irritated skin. In addition to the zinc, the formula contains licorice root extract which also features soothing and moisturizing characteristics. The product is clinically proven to help remove piled up oil and dirt in pores. It can also be used as makeup cleaner by acne affected people struggling to find proper skin care treatment. When used regularly it removes face shine and oil from the skin and regulates the sebum. It is paraben and fragrance-free and it won’t clog the pores.
Benefits
The zinc technology used to make this cleanser guarantees in-depth pore cleaning and maintaining the PH balance of the skin. When washed twice a day, the skin will gradually start getting normalized, it won’t feel greasy and it will regain oil control. You will not have the dry sensation because of the ingredients used in the formulation of the cleanser feature nourishing and moisturizing properties. It can be used for oily and sensitive skin type by persons of all ages, including teenagers.
Cost and Value
This dermatologically recommended and clinically proven oil wash is one of the options for you to try in case you are in a quest for a reliable and functional product. It can be even used with prescription treatments without interfering their effect. The price is reasonable and there are some promotional offers and deals that you might come across which significantly reduce the price.

6. Phisoderm Gel Cleanser


People react differently to skincare products and that is the reason why many cosmetic companies are putting extra effort, time and money to be able to meet the needs to as many individuals as possible. There are different oily-skin treatments that feature different ingredients and help people in a different way. Phisoderm gel cleanser is a cleanser that has 2% salicylic acid as the active ingredient which is often used in acne-treating products due to its anti-inflammatory and collagen boosting features.
Read moreProduct Features
Salicylic acid used in skincare treatment resembles the process of scrubbing but avoids the risk of breaking tiny blood vessels and rupturing pores. It helps remove dead cells from the skin and helps increase cell turnover. It is also useful in increasing collagen production, removing skin discoloration and helps in cases of inflammation. The product doesn’t contain any soapy ingredients, alcohol or oil, so there is no risk of pore clogging.
Benefits
When the salicylic acid enters the skin it helps to remove the dead cells, so it makes the skin texture smoother and healthier. In addition to this, it cleans the pores, soothes the inflamed parts and decreases skin redness. As it cleans the skin, thus the sebum is reduced, so you are not going to have the frustrating shiny look on your face. The effect after washing is gentle skin which doesn’t feel tight or dry.
Cost and Value
If you are searching for an effective cleanser to fight your breakouts and excessive oil on your skin, then you can consider this cleanser. It is less aggressive then benzoyl peroxide and can be used on sensitive skin too. In addition to this, the price is very affordable, so anyone can afford it.

7. La Roche-Posay Effaclar


I don’t really think that there’s anyone out there who hasn’t heard about La Roche, especially if the person is having real issues with the oily skin that often get breakouts. The company itself has been rated among the best cosmetic companies that produce skin care products under strictest conditions, in cooperation with many dermatologists and with the use of the most advanced technologies to provide the safest and the most functional treatments. The Effaclar line has been made to change the look of oily skin and provide quality of line through the skin. They have even started a boot camp called Be Clear to provide assistance and help to persons suffering from acne-prone skin. As being among the best cleansers, let’s go into details and see the features and the benefits that this gel cleanser provides.
Read moreProduct Features
This foaming gel can be used for keeping daily care, preferably twice a day, in the morning and in the evening to remove the oil from the skin and to reduce the sebum of the pores. It has a very mild and gentle formula that doesn’t irritate the skin and provides a non-dry effect after washing the face. It is made with zinc picolinate which is known to be purifying, antiseptic, astringent and anti-inflammatory agent which is used to enhance skin consistency and make it PH balanced. The gel doesn’t contain any parabens, alcohol, oil or soap and it has been dermatologically tested on sensitive and oily skin.
Benefits
The greatest benefit of using the product will be normalized and moisturized skin without looking shiny or dirty. It removes the excess oil and restores the PH balance of the skin. As you know, many cleansers give this feeling of dry skin after washing it which makes the skin tingly. However, this gel is not going to make you feel as if your skin was stretching, due to its active ingredient, zinc picolinate. Your face will be refreshed, clear and with a matte effect.
Cost and Value
Since this product is already on our list, you have probably guessed that it is one of the most five-star rated products and that it is a highly recommended product. But it is not only recommended by customers, but it is also recommended by more than 90 000 dermatologists world-wide due to its safe and effective formula which is very powerful when it comes to regulating the oil and the PH-balance of the skin, and very mild when it comes to the reaction it gives on the face. In addition to these perks, the price is very reasonable, especially if you consider the size of the packaging which is very big.

8. Neutrogena Acne Fighting Cleanser


Sometimes whatever you try, it simply doesn’t work, the blemishes are still there, you frequently get breakouts, your skin is as oily as if it was soaked in vegetable oil. You’ve tried everything that your friends recommended, form natural to mild, and yet, no effect. Neutrogena, had that in mind when formulating the line for excessively oily skin and stubborn acne, pointing to the fact that what makes us different is the skin type we have, among other things. So, this facial cleanser comes from this line and features acne-fighting properties that provide an almost immediate effect.
Read moreProduct Features
As the cleaning is the first step towards oil-controlled face and prevention of the breakouts, this cleanser has been made with the maximum allowed benzoyl peroxide which is known to be a very efficient blemish-fighting substance used for medical purposes and until recently it was only sold as a prescription drug. However, with the new regulations, this 10 % contained in the cleansers are approved as the maximum amount to be used for over-the-counter dermatological products. Therefore, Neutrogena efficiently integrated it in the formula of this cleanser, offering the strongest form of fighting acne and blemishes and prevention of new ones.
Benefits
This cleanser is strong, both in the way it deals with the breakouts and the way it affects the skin. If you are desperate to have a cleaner and smoother skin in a short period of time than this cleanser will probably do the job. It is said to provide a visible result in just 1 day, making the redness and the size of the pimples decreased. It also affects the amount of sebum found on the face and drastically reduces it. Since the gel contains benzoyl peroxide, there is a possibility to feel extra dryness to your skin. If your skin is too dry you can use Neutrogena moisturizer to soften the skin. It is recommended to start using it once a day and then to continue with twice a day.
Cost and Value
As Neutrogena is among the leaders in the cosmetic industry, one can expect products that comply with the standards and offer optimal benefits to achieve the desired result. This cleanser will make a difference in the way you cleanse your skin and in the way your skin looks. If nothing else works, you might want to give this cleanser a try. The price is normal for these types of products, so you’re not going to have any out of the ordinary expenses.

9. Humane Wash


When companies try to advertise their products, they tend to shed much light on benefits and the good sides of the product, whereas totally shade the dangers or the flaws that the product might have. This company, however, has a bit different approach, emphasizing first the negative outcomes that might occur and then putting the stress of the benefits. Whether that be the honest approach or the very effective and functional cleanser that truly helps, this product has thousands of positive five-star ratings and is among the most praised ones. Let’s take a look at its features and benefits.
Read moreProduct Features
Humane acne wash is made to clean and clear your face and prevent the occurrence of new breakouts by directly affecting the pores. The cleanser is based on benzoyl peroxide 10% which is the maximum allowed amount for non-prescription medicine. It is an aggressive substance that kills the acne-creating bacteria found in the pores and that prevents the occurrence of new ones. Since it is a strong synthetic substance you might expect skin dryness and initial irritation (to a normal and bearable level), and even more intensive breakout before the product starts showing visible improvement. That’s normal because the skin is trying to adapt to the product, and it is an indication that the cleanser is functioning. It should be used twice a day, but in case of increased irritation, it can be lowered down to once a day.
Benefits
This product is among the most effective ones but is not going to heal your breakouts overnight. It is made to act into the deepest layers of the skin and it is going to clean it gradually. What you really need with this product is patience and persistence since the beginning of the treatment might get you discouraged. Those first weeks are the weeks of deep pore cleansing and the breakout will probably get worse. You might face skin irritation, redness, and excessive dryness. To avoid getting your skin too dry, you should use a moisturizer. After this stage passes you will start seeing the results, and feel the changed texture and looks of your skin. In about three months, your skin will be much cleaner, smoother and acne-free.
Cost and Value
The reviews say it all, and when it comes to this face wash, there are thousands who say that they have found their path to clean and acne-free skin. Acnes do not happen overnight and it is true that they can’t be healed overnight. Bear in mind that this product is not for people with sensitive skin. Besides that, it is a good product that will yield the desired results. The price is higher than the average, but if this helps you find the solution to your problem, then it is just right.

10. Bioré Pore Scrub


Salicylic acid has been used in medicine and cosmetics because it exhibits very peculiar properties, such as the ability to effectively calm inflamed skin and soothe irritation, the ability to provide cell turnover and restore the cell quality, and the ability to fight bacteria and microbes. Due to these features, it can be seen in varieties of skin-care products, the most frequent being the acne-prone skin care treatments. Biore has utilized salicylic acid in their line of products intended to fight breakouts and this line of products has been very effective. The cleanser that we have on the list is very powerful in unclogging pores and has the ability to absorb and neutralize all the dirt found inside of them.
Read moreProduct Features
When you have acne-prone skin, the greatest problem lies in the clogged pores which became such due to excessive sebum, and often that is a sign of an unregulated work of the hormonal glands or the increased stress levels. The excessive oil usually traps dead cells and the environmental dirt inside the pores and it is very difficult to remove it effectively because it is trapped in the deeper layers of the skin. Due to this, the Biore Pore Unclogging Scrub is made to gently exfoliate the skin by reaching the dirt deep inside the pores and remove all the blemish-causing dirt. The product contains salicylic acid which is a well-known chemical that successfully fights breakouts, in addition to gentle spherical beads that penetrate deeper skin layers.
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Benefits
It isn't a secret that certain products can cause irritation and face redness, especially exfoliators. However, that is not the case with this product. It is very powerful in removing trapped dirt inside the pores, however, it will not affect negatively your skin. It has a mild formula that soothes the skin as it cleans it. Because of the mild round beads, the scrubbing is gentle but effective and it doesn’t scratch the skin. The effect will be refreshed, much cleaner and oil-free skin.
Cost and Value
Biore made sure that they offer a real solution for oily skin, prone to breakouts and blemishes. This gentle exfoliator can be used daily causing no irritation or excessive dryness as many other ordinary exfoliators usually do. The packaging may vary and so does the price. However, these are affordable cleansers that won’t impose a heavy financial burden.

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