Which body wash is most effective for treating acne. How can you choose the right acne body wash for your skin type. What ingredients should you look for in an acne-fighting body wash. Discover the top-rated acne body washes of 2023 and their unique benefits.

Understanding Acne Body Washes: Key Ingredients and Benefits

Acne body washes are specifically formulated to target breakouts on the body, particularly on areas like the back, chest, and shoulders. These specialized cleansers often contain active ingredients that help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts. Let’s explore some of the key components found in effective acne body washes:

• Salicylic Acid: A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to remove excess oil and dead skin cells
• Benzoyl Peroxide: An antibacterial agent that kills acne-causing bacteria and helps to reduce inflammation
• Tea Tree Oil: A natural antimicrobial ingredient that can help fight acne-causing bacteria
• Glycolic Acid: An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin’s surface to promote cell turnover
• Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that help balance the skin’s microbiome and reduce inflammation

When choosing an acne body wash, it’s essential to consider your skin type and the severity of your acne. Some formulations may be too harsh for sensitive skin, while others might not be strong enough for severe breakouts.

ZitSticka Silkshake: A Gentle Solution for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

For those with sensitive, acne-prone skin, finding a body wash that effectively treats breakouts without causing irritation can be challenging. ZitSticka Silkshake Probiotic-Rich Cleanser offers a unique solution to this common dilemma.

Key Features of ZitSticka Silkshake:

• Probiotic-rich formula to balance skin bacteria
• Strengthens the skin’s protective barrier
• Soothes and calms inflammation
• Gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin

While this cleanser doesn’t contain traditional acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, its focus on supporting the skin’s natural defenses can be highly effective for some users. Many have reported significant improvements in their skin after just a week of use.

Is ZitSticka Silkshake suitable for all types of body acne? While it can be effective for many users, those with more severe or persistent acne may need a stronger formula containing active ingredients. However, for individuals with sensitive skin who have struggled with harsh acne treatments in the past, this gentle option could be a game-changer.

Differin Acne-Clearing Body Wash: Creamy Texture Meets Powerful Treatment

Differin’s Acne-Clearing Body Wash offers a unique combination of a luxurious, creamy texture and effective acne-fighting properties. This body wash stands out for its ability to provide a rich lather without leaving pore-clogging residue on the skin.

Notable Aspects of Differin Acne-Clearing Body Wash:

• Contains 2% salicylic acid for deep pore cleansing
• Creamy texture that rinses clean
• Helps eliminate excess oil and buildup
• Suitable for daily use

The inclusion of 2% salicylic acid makes this body wash particularly effective at treating and preventing acne. Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, can penetrate pores to remove excess oil and dead skin cells, making it an excellent choice for those prone to body breakouts.

How quickly can you expect to see results with Differin Acne-Clearing Body Wash? While individual results may vary, many users report seeing improvements in their skin within a few weeks of consistent use. Some even describe it as a “miracle-worker” for treating upper back and shoulder acne.

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash: Maximum Strength Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment

For those battling more severe body acne, PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash offers a powerful solution with its maximum-strength 10% benzoyl peroxide formulation. This drugstore option has gained popularity for its effectiveness in treating existing acne and preventing new breakouts.

Key Benefits of PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash:

• Available in 10% and 4% benzoyl peroxide concentrations
• Effectively treats and prevents acne breakouts
• Foaming formula for easy application
• Recommended by dermatologists for stubborn acne

The 10% benzoyl peroxide concentration makes this wash particularly potent, but it may be too strong for those with sensitive or dry skin. For these individuals, the 4% version might be a more suitable option.

How does benzoyl peroxide compare to salicylic acid in treating body acne? While both ingredients can be effective, benzoyl peroxide is particularly good at killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, is better at exfoliating and unclogging pores. The choice between the two often depends on the individual’s skin type and the nature of their acne.

Naturium The Perfector: Clean Beauty Meets Acne Treatment

For those who prefer clean, plant-based skincare products, Naturium’s The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash offers an effective acne treatment without compromising on natural ingredients. This body wash combines the power of salicylic acid with nourishing plant oils to treat breakouts while maintaining skin health.

Standout Features of Naturium The Perfector:

• Contains salicylic acid for acne treatment
• Made with clean, plant-based ingredients
• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Free from fragrances and parabens
• Nourishes skin with plant-based oils

While the inclusion of plant oils may leave a slight film on the skin, many users appreciate the added hydration, especially if they have combination or dry skin prone to acne.

Can clean beauty products be as effective as traditional acne treatments? Many clean beauty formulations, like Naturium’s The Perfector, combine natural ingredients with proven acne-fighting compounds like salicylic acid. This approach can offer the best of both worlds – effective treatment with the benefits of plant-based skincare.

Dove Body Love Acne Clear: Gentle Yet Effective Drugstore Option

Dove’s Body Love Acne Clear body wash offers an affordable, widely available option for those dealing with body acne. This drugstore product combines gentle cleansing with acne-fighting ingredients, making it suitable for regular use.

Key Attributes of Dove Body Love Acne Clear:

• Contains 1% salicylic acid for gentle acne treatment
• Includes bamboo extract for additional pore-cleansing benefits
• Moisturizing formula prevents skin from feeling tight or dry
• Pleasant, mild fragrance

The 1% salicylic acid concentration makes this body wash gentler than some other options, which can be beneficial for those with sensitive skin or mild acne. The addition of bamboo extract provides extra pore-cleansing power without increasing irritation.

Is a lower concentration of salicylic acid less effective for treating acne? While higher concentrations may work faster for some people, a gentler formulation like Dove’s can be equally effective over time, especially for those with sensitive skin. The key is consistent use and finding a product that your skin tolerates well.

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash: A Dermatologist Favorite

Neutrogena’s Body Clear Body Wash has long been a favorite among dermatologists and consumers alike. This classic formulation offers reliable acne treatment in an accessible, affordable package.

Notable Features of Neutrogena Body Clear:

• Contains salicylic acid to fight acne
• Oil-free formula to prevent pore clogging
• Gentle enough for daily use
• Widely available in drugstores and supermarkets

The Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash has stood the test of time, remaining a popular choice for those dealing with body acne. Its effectiveness, combined with its affordability and availability, makes it a go-to option for many.

Why do dermatologists often recommend Neutrogena Body Clear? Dermatologists appreciate this body wash for its consistent formulation, which contains a proven acne-fighting ingredient (salicylic acid) in a gentle, non-irritating base. It’s also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores – a crucial feature for acne-prone skin.

Choosing the Right Acne Body Wash for Your Skin

With so many options available, selecting the best acne body wash for your needs can seem daunting. Here are some factors to consider when making your choice:

1. Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, opt for gentler formulations like ZitSticka Silkshake or Dove Body Love Acne Clear. For oilier or more acne-prone skin, stronger options like PanOxyl or Differin might be more suitable.
2. Acne Severity: For mild acne, a salicylic acid wash might be sufficient. For more severe breakouts, consider a benzoyl peroxide formula like PanOxyl.
3. Ingredients: Look for proven acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil. If you prefer natural products, options like Naturium The Perfector combine plant-based ingredients with effective acne treatments.
4. Additional Skin Concerns: If you have dry or sensitive skin in addition to acne, look for formulas that offer hydration or soothing properties alongside acne treatment.
5. Budget: While some specialized acne body washes can be pricier, effective options are available at various price points, from drugstore brands like Neutrogena and Dove to more premium options like ZitSticka.

Remember, finding the right acne body wash may require some trial and error. It’s often helpful to start with a gentler option and gradually increase strength if needed. Always patch test new products, especially if you have sensitive skin, and be patient – it can take several weeks to see significant improvements in acne.

Are there any lifestyle changes that can complement the use of acne body washes? Indeed, several habits can help maximize the effectiveness of your acne treatment routine. These include showering immediately after sweating, avoiding tight-fitting clothes that can trap sweat and bacteria, regularly washing bed linens and towels, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

By combining the right acne body wash with good skincare habits, you can significantly improve the appearance and health of your skin. Whether you’re dealing with occasional breakouts or more persistent acne, there’s a body wash solution that can help you achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

13 Best Body Washes for Acne (Tested & Reviewed 2023)

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1

Best Body Wash for Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin

ZitSticka Silkshake Probiotic-Rich Cleanser for Acne-Prone Bodies

1

Best Body Wash for Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin

ZitSticka Silkshake Probiotic-Rich Cleanser for Acne-Prone Bodies

Now 19% Off

$25 at Amazon

Credit: Courtesy of Zitsticka

Pros

• Helps support skin barrier function

Cons

• Doesn’t contain actives like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide

If you have sensitive skin, then you already know that a body wash loaded with strong actives may do your skin more harm than good. That’s where this gentle option from Zitsticka comes into play. It uses a blend of pre-and-postbiotics to balance the bacteria on your skin and strength your skin’s protective barrier. Also great? It has soothing and calming properties to reduce any inflammation associated with body breakouts.

THE REVIEW: “I have tried so many products to make my acne go down and nothing has worked, but after using this product for a week I saw AMAZING RESULTS—worth every penny,” writes one tester.

2

Best Creamy Body Wash for Acne

Differin Acne-Clearing Body Wash

2

Best Creamy Body Wash for Acne

Differin Acne-Clearing Body Wash

Now 25% Off

$12 at Amazon$12 at Walmart

Credit: Courtesy of Differin

I love the feel of a rich, creamy body wash, but most don’t rinse clean and end up clogging my pores. Differin’s formula is the exception. It feels super luxe and lathers *just* the right amount—plus it’s spiked with 2 percent salicylic acid to deep-clean skin and get rid of excess oil and buildup without causing irritation.

THE REVIEW: “I get upper back and shoulder acne from time to time and whenever it pops up I start using this and it goes down almost immediately—a genuine miracle-worker. “

3

Best Drugstore Acne Body Wash with Benzoyl Peroxide

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash

3

Best Drugstore Acne Body Wash with Benzoyl Peroxide

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash

$9 at Amazon$10 at Walmart

Pros

• Comes in a 10 percent and 4 percent version

Cons

• May be too irritating/drying for certain skin types

You can’t beat this drugstore acne body wash from PanOxyl. It’s loaded with 10 percent benzoyl peroxide, this maximum-strength foaming wash helps treat existing acne and prevent new breakouts from forming. “I will recommend the PanOxyl 4 Percent Benzoyl Peroxide formula for people with mild acne or skin that might be on the dryer side,” says Dr. Turegano, “but I will usually recommend this 10 percent version for most patients struggling with acne.”

THE REVIEW: “After a week of using this only in my morning routine, my breakouts really reduced in irritation, size, and redness,” writes one tester. “After two weeks, more than half of them were gone. After three weeks, they were all gone—this stuff really works.”

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4

Best Clean Body Wash for Acne

Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash

4

Best Clean Body Wash for Acne

Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash

$27 at Amazon

Credit: Courtesy of Naturium

Pros

• Made with clean, plant-based ingredients

Cons

• Contains oils that may leave a slight film on skin

Anyone who is into clean, green beauty will love this body wash from Naturium. It’s made with salicylic acid to treat and prevent body bumps and breakouts and high-quality plant-based oils to nourish and soothe skin. Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free too.

THE REVIEW: “I’m a huge fan of Naturium Products and this one didn’t disappoint,” writes one reviewer. “I have sensitive skin, and this body wash doesn’t bother me at all. As a matter of fact, my skin loves it. What I love the most is that it doesn’t leave a film like some do on my skin. If you’re on the fence, give it a shot!”

5

Best Drugstore Body Wash for Acne with Salicylic Acid

Dove Body Love Acne Clear

5

Best Drugstore Body Wash for Acne with Salicylic Acid

Dove Body Love Acne Clear

$32 at Amazon

Credit: Courtesy of Dove

This drugstore body wash from Dove is a solid choice for treating stubborn blackheads and whiteheads on your chest, shoulders, and back. It uses 1 percent salicylic acid (so it’s a bit gentler that versions that contain 2 percent) and bamboo extract to degunk pores and prevent breakouts—and unlike other gel body washes this won’t leave your skin feeling tight or dried-out after you get out of the shower.

THE REVIEW: “This is such a great deal/buy. It smells both floral and herbal to me but in a very pleasant way that I don’t find overwhelming or irritating. It’s made my skin feel soft and the hormonal acne on my chest has lessened,” writes one reviewer.

6

Best Cult-Favorite Acne Body Wash

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash

6

Best Cult-Favorite Acne Body Wash

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash

$10 at Amazon$8 at Walmart

Pros

• Classic formula has been loved by derms and consumers for years

Cons

• May be too drying for some skin types

There’s a reason this iconic body wash has been on the market for years (and why it’s one of Henry’s fave picks): The classic formula is a tried-and-true option for treating breakouts and rough, bumpy texture on your back, chest, and shoulders thanks to 2 percent salicylic acid.

THE REVIEW: “This soap prevents acne on your body but it is a wonderful treatment for KP too,” writes a tester. “A lot of these treatments are are really, really expensive for the average consumer but this is affordable and will do you wonders for your skin too. “

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7

Best Acne Body Wash Bar

Clinique Acne Solutions Cleansing Bar

7

Best Acne Body Wash Bar

Clinique Acne Solutions Cleansing Bar

$18 at Sephora$30 at Walmart$19 at Ulta Beauty

Pros

• Can be used on the face and body

Cons

• Some testers say the bar dissolves quickly if not stored in a soap dish

We get it—liquid body washes aren’t for everyone. That’s where this bar soap from Clinique comes in. It’s formulated with everything you want in a body acne cleanser (pore-clearing salicylic acid and hydrating glycerin) but with the creamy texture of an easy-to-handle bar.

THE REVIEW: “I’ve been dealing with hormonal cystic acne all over my chin and cheek area for years now,” writes a tester. “I’ve tried everything and have never seen results until I started using this—it’s the best thing around for cystic acne!!!”

8

Best Body Wash for Fungal Acne

SkinFix Azelaic Acid AHA/BHA Cleanser

8

Best Body Wash for Fungal Acne

SkinFix Azelaic Acid AHA/BHA Cleanser

$35 at Sephora

Pros

• Contains azelaic acid to soothe skin and minimize redness

Cons

• Some testers say it doesn’t lather enough

If you’re dealing with fungal acne (aka acne-looking bumps that are usually tiny, red, and/or itchy), then you’ll wanna check out this cleanser from Skinfix. Along with salicylic, azelaic, and glycolic acids for reducing breakouts and minimizing excess sebum, this formula includes niacinamide, which will reduce inflammation and redness that is often caused by fungal acne.

THE REVIEW: “I have sensitive skin that breaks out often,” writes a tester. “I love that this is gentle enough to not irritate my skin but still powerful enough to clear up pimples. I highly recommend.”

9

Best Splurge Body Wash for Acne

Murad Acne Body Wash

9

Best Splurge Body Wash for Acne

Murad Acne Body Wash

$48 at Sephora$37 at Walmart$48 at Nordstrom

Pros

• Contains AHAs and BHAs to unclog pores and nix dead skin cells

Cons

• Pricey for the amount of product

Even though your body is tougher than your face, gritty scrubs do way more harm than good, as they can create micro-tears in your skin that mess with your barrier and lead to more breakouts. Instead of physical exfoliants, opt for chemical exfoliants like glycolic and salicylic acids—like you’ll find in this triple-action acne body wash—to gently and effectively clean your pores and minimize oil. And at $48 we totally get that this bb is too pricey to use all over your bod, so think of it as a “spot-wash” and massage it on breakout-prone areas like your chest and shoulders.

THE REVIEW: “I never write reviews but had to for this product,” one reviewer writes, adding “I’ve used it consistently for 6+ months and my bacne is all gone!!!!!!! If you’re doubting it or unsure, JUST TRY IT.”

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10

Best Multitasking Body Wash for Acne

Soft Services Clearing Clay

10

Best Multitasking Body Wash for Acne

Soft Services Clearing Clay

$3 at softservices.co

Credit: Courtesy of Soft Services

Pros

• 3-in-1 formula can be used as a cleanser, mask, or spot treatment

Cons

• Not good for dry, peeling skin

The hero ingredient in this body wash for acne is sulfur, which is loved by derms for it’s antibacterial, antifungal, and skin-softening benefits. And the pasty clay texture is super versatile—use it all over as a regular wash, leave it on a little bit longer as a mask, or dab it on like problem areas like you would a spot treatment.

THE REVIEW: “This has become my new holy grail body product,” writes on reviewier. “I have sensitive, combination skin that’s prone to breakouts and this calms my active body breakouts without drying out my skin. It also seems to be preventative too.”

11

Best Face and Body Wash for Acne

Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser

11

Best Face and Body Wash for Acne

Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Gel Cleanser

Now 30% Off

$10 at Amazon

Pros

• Formula is vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

• Some testers say the pump is prone to clogging

While most acne body washes are gonna be too sensitive for your cute lil face to handle, that’s not the case with this bb from Bliss. Formulated with a blend of salicylic acid, Brazilian sea water, and willow bark extract, Dr. Zeichner says this non-irritating cleanser is great for cleaning, detoxifying, and soothing the skin on both your face and body.

THE REVIEW: “My skin is very sensitive and prone to breakouts but I haven’t seen any pop up breakouts since I started using this cleanser,” writes a tster, adding “my skin is silky soft after using it and I really like the smell too.”

12

Best Gentle Acne Body Wash

Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel

12

Best Gentle Acne Body Wash

Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel

$20 at Amazon

Pros

• Helps absorb excess oil and mattify skin on the face and body without causing dryness

Cons

• Some testers say the scent can be overwhelming

Not down to treat your body acne with a medicated wash? No prob, loading up on hydrating ingredients is just as important (and effective) in the fight against zits. This gentle body wash from Avène cleanses your skin without messing up your pH levels—which can lead to breakouts—courtesy of gentle ingredients like glycerin and spring water.

THE REVIEW: “This is one of the only cleansers that keeps my combo, hormonal cystic acne prone skin clear while managing oil production. I keep coming back to it time and again. With regular use blackheads even are diminished. It’s got a pleasant scent and lathers even though it’s soap free,” writes one tester.

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13

Best Body Wash for Acne Scars

Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash

13

Best Body Wash for Acne Scars

Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash

$33 at Dermstore$33 at Walmart$34 at Skinstore

Pros

• Helps smooth rough, uneven texture and fade dark spots and marks

Cons

• May be too strong to use everyday on sensitive skin types

You can thank the glycolic acid in this body wash for its ability to prevent annoying breakouts and fade the stubborn acne scars and marks they leave behind. Not only does glycolic acid dissolve pore-clogging dead skin cells, it has brightening benefits that help fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation too.

THE REVIEW: “I typically have breakouts on my chest and back but once I started using this twice a week no more breakouts! It comes out thick but it lathers well and a couple pumps is good for the whole body. My skin was so smooth after using it—love!”

Which body wash is best for acne?

As a general rule, the best body washes for acne contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. “Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that removes dead cells and excess oil from the surface of the skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. “It is a great option for people dealing with blackheads, whiteheads, small bumps, and even acne scars.”

Benzoyl peroxide, on the other hand, works by lowering levels of acne-causing bacteria on the skin and reducing inflammation, explains Dr. Zeichner. “It is particularly useful in treating red, angry pimples.”

How do I use a body wash for acne?

A great acne body wash doesn’t just clean the surface of your skin—it also works to remove built-up oil and unclog pores. That’s why you should think of an acne body wash more like a short-contact treatment rather than just a cleanser. “It is important to give the cleanser enough contact time with the skin to allow it to do its job,” says Dr. Zeichner. “Applying it and immediately rinsing it off will help remove soiling from the skin, but won’t give the actives enough time to penetrate through the follicles to get to where they need to go to be effective. So I tell my patients to apply a cleanser, let it sit while you sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to yourself, then rinse off.”

Speaking of effectiveness: Dr. Henry says some manual exfoliation (such as with a Buf-Puf or other body sponge) can help make your body wash as effective as possible. “A big part of body acne is the fact that the body does not exfoliate itself as effectively as a face, which makes it more prone to having clogged pores if one is acne-prone,” Dr. Henry explains. “So adding additional exfoliation is really critical to clearing up body acne. ”

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How to choose the best body wash for acne:

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all acne body wash, as everyone’s skin is different, and what works for your bestie might not work for you. “I put washes for body acne in two categories: supportive or therapeutic,” says Dr. Zeichner. “If you are using prescription acne medications or leave-on products, then I recommend sticking to cleansers that help support the health and hydration of the outer skin layer, like Dove’s Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash.” However! If you aren’t already relying on your cleanser to treat body acne, then you’ll wanna look for a therapeutic wash. Here are some things to keep in mind while ya shop:

Avoid oil-based ingredients.

Since body acne forms when oil gets trapped in the pores, causing blockages and inflammation, it makes sense that you’d wanna avoid oil-based formulas that’ll only exacerbate the issue. “I recommend avoiding oils that can clog pores,” says Dr. Turegano. “This includes coconut oil, avocado oil, flaxseed oil, and almond oil, among others.”

Consider your skin’s sensitivity level.

Got sensitive or dry skin? Then be careful when choosing a wash with benzoyl peroxide. “I think that benzoyl peroxide should be used at a lower percent strength or avoided if you have a sensitivity to it or if you have very dry skin,” Dr. Turegano says. And while benzoyl peroxide-and salicylic acid-based formulas tend to be the most effective, an exfoliating body wash with glycolic acid may be the best choice for those with sensitive or dry skin, explains Dr. Henry.

Meet the experts:

• Mamina Turegano, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Sanova Dermatology in New Orleans, LA, and co-founder of Skintap.com
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, NY.
• Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan in New York, NY.

Why trust Cosmopolitan?

Lauren Balsamo is deputy beauty director at Cosmopolitan with nearly a decade of experience researching, writing, and editing skincare stories that range from the best retinol eye creams to the best lasers for acne scars. She’s an authority in all skincare categories but an expert when it comes to acne products. She regularly tests and analyzes acne products, while working with the industry’s top dermatologists and estheticians to assess new formulas, brands, and technologies.

Lauren Balsamo

Deputy Beauty Director

Lauren Balsamo is deputy beauty director at Cosmopolitan, where she writes, edits, and produces all types of beauty content—from product reviews to personal essays and trend reports. She has covered beauty for nine years at Cosmopolitan and has contributed to Women’s Health and Seventeen magazines as well. Follow her on Instagram. 

Corinne Sullivan

Editor

Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé. 

The 15 Best Acne Body Washes, According to Experts and Editors

Be it buttne, chestne, neckne, or backne, body breakouts happen—there’s no denying it. The good news? Treating it can *usually* be accomplished by making a few lifestyle changes (read: clean towels, shower after sweating) and incorporating one of the best acne body washes into your routine. “Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid washes are very helpful,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. “They loosen up the skin cells that contribute to acne. ” With time, and regular use, these active ingredients will clear out the gunk, reduce bacteria, regulate oil, and inevitably get rid of blackheads and pimples. 

For a while, Neutrogena’s Pink Grapefruit Acne Body Wash, which is formulated with salicylic acid, was the one and only go-to. Thanks to the body care boom, that’s no longer the case (although it’s still one of the best out there). Now, the drugstore aisle, Sephora shelves, and online retailers have dozens upon dozens of options to choose from. So, which ones deserve a spot in your shower? To answer that question, we’ve rounded up the best acne body washes of all time.

To get more recommendations on how to treat acne, check out our favorite spot treatments and the best face washes for acne-prone skin. 

What to Look For in an Acne Body Wash

• Ingredients

Think of an acne body wash the same way you think of an acne face wash—it’s a short-term contact therapy treatment. Your body skin can handle something a bit more intense than your face, so you might find higher concentrations of active ingredients or want to consider letting the body wash sit on your skin for a few minutes. “Look for body washes with benzoyl peroxide, which will kill bacteria and yeast associated with acne, or ones with salicylic acid, which is comedolytic and breaks blackheads apart,” says Dr. Lal. Chances are you’ll also find additional AHAs, BHAs, or natural alternatives in the mix, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, or tea tree extract. 

• Chemical vs Physical 

All the options out there are going to fall into one of two camps: They’ll be a physical exfoliant (think: grainy particles) or chemical exfoliant (think: acids). It is largely a personal preference, but Dr. Lal is partial to the latter. “I don’t recommend physical exfoliation for acne or folliculitis,” he says. “Chemical exfoliation is the way to go and washes are an easy way to do this. It allows for therapeutic intervention without irritation and dryness.” 

The Best Acne Body Washes

• The Best Drugstore Acne Body Wash: CeraVe SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin
• The Best Acne Body Wash for Sensitive Skin: SEEN Body Wash
• The Best Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Body Wash: PanOxyl 10% Acne Foaming Wash
• The Best Brightening Acne Body Wash: Kosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash
• The Best Salicylic Acid Acne Body Wash: Neutrogena Body Clear Pink Grapefruit Acne Body Wash

The Best Drugstore Acne Body Wash

CeraVe SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin

Whether you’re dealing with straight up body acne or just have a rough texture that you want to even out, CeraVe can save the day. “This has salicylic acid and ceramides which makes this safe for all skin types,” says Dr. Lal. The salicylic acid, which is concentrated at two percent, serves as the active, acne-fighting ingredient, while the ceramides, along with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, counteract the drying, occasionally irritating side effects. The best part? The price can’t be beat. 

Pros: Dermatologist-recommended; Affordable; Fragrance Free 

Cons: None 

Customer Review: “This stuff is magic! I suffer from bumpy skin on the back of my arms and thighs, and using this daily in the shower erased them! Highly recommended this along with the moisturizer.” 

The Best Acne Body Wash for Folliculitis

CLN BodyWash

It’s all too common to mistake folliculitis, aka inflammation of the hair follicle, as acne. Thankfully, this Amazon body wash is a savior for both. “This has sodium hypochlorite, which is great for people with bacterial-prone acne and for people with folliculitis,” says Dr. Lal. The benefits don’t stop there—it’s also able to treat eczema, redness, and dryness. Such a 360 treatment doesn’t usually come bottled up in one product, so don’t sleep on adding this bleach bath dupe to your shower shelf. 

Pros: Dermatologist-recommended; Multi-purpose 

Cons: Can stain towels 

Customer Review: “I’ve had little bumps for years on my face. Cleared them right up. My dermatologist suggested this cleanser for me. My skin is so sensitive to everything… this works.” — Amazon

The Best Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash

PanOxyl 10% Acne Foaming Wash

“This is the OG acne body wash. It kills all organisms and truly works,” says Dr. Lal. How, you ask? Thanks to a 10 percent benzoyl peroxide formula. That’s the strongest possible concentration you can get over the counter, so rest assured it’s the real deal. If you lean more sensitive, I would wash it off right away. But if you can tolerate it, try letting the wash sit on your skin for a few minutes. Just a word from the wise: “Be careful, it can bleach towels.” 

Pros: Dermatologist-recommended; Strong OTC concentration

Cons: Can stain towels 

Customer Review: “I’ve been using this product for a few months and it cleared my skin! I have sensitive skin and this product works great! Instead of washing after a few minutes, I let it dissolve into my skin. Even my doctor asked what I used because he seen a huge difference compared to the last time I seen him! It’s worth it!!” — Amazon

The Best Physical Exfoliator Acne Body Wash

Murad Acne Body Wash

While salicylic acid can be used at a two percent concentration, Murad opted to cut it in half—and for good reason. Their acne-fighting body wash takes a three-pronged approach to pimple destruction. The beta-hydroxy acid attacks blackheads, glycolic acid speeds up cell turnover and gets rid of dead, pore-clogging skin cells, and date seed powder, which is a physical exfoliant, gently exfoliates. While physical exfoliation isn’t for everyone, this particular inclusion is relatively gentle. 

Pros: Contains two acids

Cons: Physical exfoliation is too harsh for some

Customer Review: “I am not exaggerating when I say I say a difference a few days after I started using this for the acne on my back. After a few days I also started using the Murad Acne Body Spray and this is a perfect combination! It definitely treats and gets rid of the acne. I really recommend. Also, if you follow it with a tea tree body wash, it will help with the redness and inflammation.” — Ulta 

The Best Acne Body Wash for Maintenance

Naturium The Purifier Niacinamide Body Wash

For bad breakouts, you’ll always want to go the salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide route. But if your acne is controlled and you only deal with a small flare here and there, allow me to direct your attention to this delightfully milky body wash from Naturium. The fragrance-free product is primarily hydrating and contains all the usual suspects, with the extra addition of niacinamide, which is loved for its oil controlling abilities. If you find you need an extra acne-fighting kick, try out their new Salicylic Acid Body Spray. 

Pros: Great texture; Good for daily use and sensitive skin 

Cons: Doesn’t contain AHAs or BHAs 

Customer Review: “I bought 2 bottles a few months ago. Once I finished the first bottle, I was hooked. This stuff makes my skin feel so smooth and soft. I would highly recommend if you suffer from KP or “chicken skin”. Try it. You will not regret it.” — Naturium

The Best Salicylic Acid Body Wash

Neutrogena Body Clear Pink Grapefruit Acne Body Wash

Tried and true, this Neutrogena body wash is a staple in the category. It has a *very* strong citrus smell, don’t get me wrong. But, the formula itself is impressive. Salicylic acid is the star of the show and gets to work unclogging pores, removing dirt, and busting up oil. It’s supported by a hefty dose of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that comes along with a brightening effect. On the texture front? This is the way to go if you like a foaming lather. 

Pros: Contains salicylic acid; Foams 

Cons: Strong smell

Customer Review: Whenever I feel like I’m starting to potentially brake out I use this for a day or two and it clears right up. In the summer I sometimes breakout on my back or shoulders and this takes care of it right away and doesn’t leave my skin feeling super dry.” — Neutrogena 

The Best Body Wash for All Types of Acne

Hero Cosmetics Brave Body Power Wash

Different types of acne need different types of treatments, which is why the chemists over at Hero cooked up a solution that cures all. Salicylic acid addresses clogged pores, while a mineral complex complete with silver and copper side-swipes benzoyl peroxide by fighting acne-causing bacteria. It works up a nice lather (foam included!) and creates an aromatic experience in your shower. The gender neutral fragrance profile is a mix of citrus and sandalwood. 

Pros: Targets multiple types of acne; Lathers

Cons: Fragrance free 

Customer Review: “After realizing how much junk and pore clogging Ingredients are in so many body washes out there. I began my search for an acne safe body wash. After trying Heros power wash, I think it’s one skincare item I will keep in my regime. Smells good, lathers up great, a little goes a long way and my skin feels squeaky clean.” — Target 

The Best Acne Body Wash for Brightness

Kosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash

Cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, brighten, and do all the things with Kosas’ anti-pimple concoction. It’s powered by a trio of alpha-hydroxy acids (lactic, glycolic, and madelic), as well as fruit enzyme extracts. Together, they’re going to work some magic on the acne front. Dead skin cells? Gone. Skin tone? Brightened. Oil? Controlled. Acne? Incrementally better. That all said, this intense exfoliation can be irritating, so the brand tossed in some soothing allantoin to combat any dryness. 

Pros: Nice texture; Great ingredients

Cons: Fragranced

Customer Review: “After only using this body wash for a few weeks I have noticed my skin is softer than usual and I’ve had clear ups with blemishes, highly recommend as this is my first bottle and I’m impressed.” — Sephora 

The Best Smelling Acne Body Wash

Sol de Janiero Bom Dia Bright Clarifying AHA BHA Body Wash

It’s hard not to be obsessed with the smell of Sol de Janiero’s BumBum Cream—it’s too good. Enter this body wash, which is a just-as-amazingly-scented counterpart that infuses the signature scent into your shower. But it’s not just a treat for your nose; your skin will thank you. The formula has blemish busting superpowers thanks to its intense formula. Salicylic and lactic acids blend with fruit acids to create an AHA and BHA blend that’s top notch. 

Pros: Signature scent; Intense actives 

Cons: Drying for some 

Customer Review: “I love this stuff and I hope they never stop making it. I have KP on my arms and legs, and I also get breakouts on my chest and back. This has helped with both issues, but without causing irritation. The skin on my body is clearer and smoother since I started using this. A small amount goes a long way, so I expect the bottle to last quite a while (makes the price not so bad). I put a dime size drop on my loofah and it foams up enough for my entire body…surprising since it is sulfate free.” — Sephora 

The Best Acne Body Wash for Sensitive Skin

SEEN Body Wash

Sometimes the solution to your breakouts is simply to do less. That’s SEEN’s whole motto. The dermatologist-developed brand is focused on removing acne triggers from the equation. That in mind, you’re not going to find any irritating fragrance, sulfates, silicones, oils, or preservatives in their body wash. Instead it’s going to nourish the skin, deliver non-comedogenic hydration, and cleanse your body without disrupting the skin’s barrier. 

Pros: Gentle; Hydrating; Non-Irritating 

Cons: No treatment ingredients 

Customer Review: “Luxurious lather, non-irritating and leaves my skin soft even in a hard water area. While I normally prefer fragrance-free personal care items, the scent is light and pleasant and does not really linger around afterwards. I think I will be adding this into the rotation of body washes.” — SEEN

The Best Glycolic Acid Acne Body Wash

Typology Purifying Cleansing Gel with 2% Zinc PCA + Bamboo Extract

Fun fact: Exfoliating your body in the shower can *majorly* help prevent ingrown hairs. Getting rid of dead skin cells, with, say, Typology’s Purifying Cleansing Gel with 2% Zinc PCA + Bamboo Extract , can stop those little red bumps from creeping up. This particular formula couples six percent glycolic acid with tea tree extract, which has antibacterial properties. Hydronesis, a hydrating ingredient, also made its way into the mix, to soothe redness and address any keratosis pilaris on the body. 

Pros: Contains glycolic acid, anti-bacterial 

Cons: Expensive 

Customer Review: I have always thought I was just destined to have large pores. After months of washing with this cleanser I have visibly reduced pores, my acne is better, my oil production is balanced, and it hasn’t caused any irritation. I have extremely sensitive skin and was worried to try this out but I’m so glad I did! This is my new holy grail cleanser. I also really like the smell, it’s very botanical.” — Typology

The Best Tea Tree Oil Body Wash

The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash

This particular *vegan* body wash targets acne without any of the common actives. Instead, it takes a natural approach and leverages the purifying effects of Community Fair Trade tea tree oil sourced from Kenya to dry out body blemishes. It soaks up oil and sucks up blackheads, all while providing a next-level sensory experience. You can expect a refreshing little tingle to the skin upon application and a nice lemon-y aroma. 

Pros: Natural; Ethically sourced ingredients; Vegan 

Cons: No acids

Customer Review: “I struggled for years with frequent blemishes on my back and face. This body wash completely resolved the issue. A little goes a long way. Great product.” — Ulta 

The Best Acne Body Wash for Clogged Pores

Isle of Paradise Confidently Clear Body Cleansing Wash Lactic & Salicylic Acids

While you may ~originally~ know Isle of Paradise as a tanning brand, I promise you’ll want to check out their new body care expansion. This particular innovation blends three types of acid together to create a cleanser that detoxes pores, provides softer, smoother skin, and decreases the intensity and frequency of body breakouts. The bottle was also designed to have a flat back so it takes up minimal shower shelf space. 

Pros: Fun packaging; Works as a pre-self tanner treatment

Cons: Strong smell 

Customer Review: “Love this body exfoliator in my routine. My skin tone looks more even and feels smooth. I use it when I wanna give my self a spa day at home and it’s just that perfect luxury. It doesn’t irritate my skin.” — Sephora 

The Best Acne Body Wash for Prevention

Maelys Get-Gone Acne Body Cleanser

I promise: The fruity-floral smell of this body wash is going to grab your attention, but the results will keep you hooked. Breakouts and pimples will dry up thanks to the inclusion of salicylic acid, but the inclusion of an ingredient called alpine willowherb will keep your skin balanced and oil under control so future body acne is less likely. 

Pros: Balanced the skin, Contains active ingredient; 

Cons: Expensive 

The Best New Acne Body Wash

Differin Acne Clearing Body Wash

If you like a creamy body wash, allow me to direct your attention to this brand new drugstore body wash—and soon to be staple. Differin’s retinol has long been a first-line drugstore treatment for face acne, so it’s no surprise that their body wash is up to par. It’s formulated with two percent salicylic acid (yay!) to declog pores, and contains hyaluronic acid and blue tansy to ensure skin stays hydrated and soothed. It’s gentle enough to be used daily too, so consider this your solve for body, chest, and back acne. 

Pros: Affordable; Contains salicylic acid as an active ingredient; Soothing 

Cons: Doesn’t suds up

Customer Review: “This product is great in the shower to help heal my body acne. It is silky and doesn’t leave a residue or dry my skin. The scent is a clean fresh smell and doesn’t linger for long. You get a big tube of product for a good price.” — Rite Aid

Meet the Dermatologist

Board-Certified Dermatologist at Affiliated Dermatology

Originally from New York City, he grew up in Queens and attended Hunter Science High School in Manhattan. He graduated summa cum laude from the New York Institute of Technology, where he completed a rigorous seven-year accelerated combined medical program. He was selected to be an academic medical scholar, during which he received a Master of Science in neuroscience and a scholarship for three years of medical school and graduate training. He was elected to the Sigma Sigma Phi and Psi Sigma Alpha medical honor societies. He completed his internal medicine internship at the University of Connecticut Medical Center where he was elected intern of the year. He completed a three-year dermatology residency at the University of Massachusetts, where he was elected chief resident. He continued at the University of Massachusetts to complete a pediatric dermatology fellowship, where he gained an interest in vascular anomalies, pediatric laser, and dermatologic surgery of pediatric patients. Dr. Lal specializes in pediatric and adult dermatology, laser surgery, soft tissue filler augmentation, body sculpting, melanocyte keratinocyte transplant surgery for vitiligo and hypopigmentation, pigmentary abnormalities of the skin and enjoys treating patients from birth onwards. He is an expert in atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, melasma, psoriasis, and hidradenitis and has worked in specialty clinics among experts. He is the only board-certified pediatric and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist in the country.

10 best face wash gels of 2023: rating, reviews, expert advice To keep it in the best condition and preserve youth, it is necessary to use cleansing, protective and supporting products. Moreover, recently, cosmetologists carefully select the components of cosmetics for washing and note that modern formulations do not dry the skin at all and effectively remove impurities. Also, when buying, it is necessary to take into account important nuances: you should choose the right product that fits the type and degree of skin problems, the age of its owner and takes into account personal feelings of comfort.

Together with an expert, we have prepared a ranking of the best face wash gels of 2023.

Rating of the top 10 face wash gels according to KP

1. Uriage Hyseac Cleansing Gel

Uriage Hyseac Cleansing Gel. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Dermatological gel from a famous French brand perfectly copes with both skin problems and make-up removal. There is no soap in the composition, so gentle care is provided for the face – the product does not dry out the skin, delicately and without injuring it removes cosmetics and excess sebum.

Delicate texture is almost odorless, easy to apply on the face, excellent foam and quickly rinsed off, leaving a feeling of velvety skin that you want to touch all the time. Also, the gel copes well with black dots and post-acne, gradually healing and erasing imperfections. Suitable for skin prone to oiliness.

Pros and cons

Great lather, hypoallergenic, soap free, cost effective

Synthetic formulation, not suitable for combination and dry skin

2.

GARNIER Hyaluronic

GARNIER Hyaluronic Aloe Foam Cleansing Gel. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Garnier’s budget gel-foam is a universal remedy for facial skin care. Like many products of this brand, the emphasis is on the naturalness of the composition – the gel contains 96% natural ingredients, there are no parabens and silicones. The main component is a formula with hyaluronic acid and organic aloe – it is responsible for intensive hydration, narrowing of pores and removal of impurities.

The product has a gel texture, completely transparent and homogeneous consistency, able to eliminate makeup residues and not cause irritation. After use, the skin does not shrink, but becomes soft, delicate and silky. The manufacturer claims that the product is suitable for all skin types.

Pros and cons

Excellent lather, no harmful ingredients, suitable for all skin types, economical consumption, pleasant fragrance0003

3. Dr. Jart+ Dermaclear pH 5.

5

Dr. Jart+ Dermaclear pH 5.5. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Gel foam from a Korean brand is a godsend for problematic and sensitive skin. The manufacturer took care of the composition and included in it a whole cocktail of phytoextracts and vegetable oils that improve skin condition. Thanks to natural surfactant components, the gel does not dry out, relieves inflammation and gives the effect of maximum cleansing, while Dead Sea minerals promise to protect the epidermis from pollution.

The tool does an excellent job of removing make-up, while manufacturers recommend keeping the foaming mass a little longer on the skin so that the olive, lavender, jasmine and sage oils that are part of the oil nourish and moisturize it as much as possible. Recommended for all skin types.

Pros and cons

Excellent lather, shrinks pores, reduces inflammation, botanical formulation, suitable for sensitive skin, economical consumption

Smells peculiar, may cause allergic reactions

4.

Biotherm, Biosource Daily Exfoliating Cleansing Melting Gel

Biotherm, Biosource Daily Exfoliating Cleansing Melting Gel. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Biosource is a facial cleansing gel that is great for daily use. This product is an exfoliator, due to which skin tone is evened out and oily sheen is reduced. The active ingredients and microparticles included in the composition can give a feeling of healthy and beautiful skin. It is worth noting that the composition does not contain parabens and oils that can cause an allergic reaction.

An excellent choice for the hot season: it washes the skin “to a squeak”, stops incipient inflammation and removes dark spots. The product is a transparent substance with small granules and a pleasant unobtrusive smell. The manufacturer notes that the gel is suitable for all skin types.

Pros and cons

Reduces inflammation, lathers well, suitable for sensitive skin, economical consumption, hypoallergenic, pleasant smell0003

5.

Nivea Cream-Gel Gentle

Nivea Cream-Gel Gentle. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Nivea budget cream-gel guarantees a pleasant feeling of moisture after washing. The composition does not contain soap, thanks to which the skin does not dry out, and the active ingredients of almond oil, calendula and panthenol soothe, giving it softness, tenderness and shine.

The texture itself is soft, non-foaming and consists of small hard granules that produce a pilling effect. It has a pleasant aroma, copes well with makeup removal, and also does not cause irritation and does not deform the skin. Recommended for dry and sensitive types.

Pros and cons

Does not dry out the skin, pleasant smell, long-lasting moisturizing, removes makeup well

Does not foam, does not rinse off well, synthetic composition

6. Holika Holika Aloe Facial Cleansing Foam

Holika Holika Aloe Facial Cleansing Foam. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Holika Holika gel based on aloe juice from the Korean brand is able to give pleasant sensations during and after washing. The composition of the product includes a vitamin complex of plant extracts, which saturates the skin with nutrients, relieves inflammation, tones, carefully cares for the epidermis and evens out the complexion.

The gel-like consistency has a pleasant unobtrusive smell, is easy to apply, foams well and rinses off quickly, while removing excess sebum, including around the eyes. It is worth noting that after the procedure, a feeling of dryness is possible, therefore, for complex care, a moisturizer should be used. The manufacturer claims that the product is suitable for all skin types.

Pros and cons

Foams well, smells good, long-lasting cleansing effect, suitable for sensitive skin, economical use

Dries the skin, leaves a feeling of tightness, does not remove makeup well

7. Vichy Purete Thermale refreshing

Vichy Purete Thermale refreshing. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Vichy’s Gentle 2-in-1 Wash Gel gently cleanses and refreshes the skin, while also removing make-up with ease. The product does not contain alcohol, sulfates and parabens, and also effectively removes impurities, softens the effect of hard water, does not dry or cause discomfort after washing. The active ingredients include glycerin, which soothes and regenerates the skin of the face.

The product has a transparent gel texture that lathers easily. After use, the gel eliminates oily shine and visually narrows the pores, and the skin becomes soft and velvety. Recommended for sensitive skin. Good Morning Gel Cleanser0011 COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Korean COSRX gel for washing will provide a good morning basic care. The active ingredient is salicylic acid, in addition, the composition contains many natural ingredients: plant extracts, tea tree oil and fruit acids, which maintain the natural pH balance of the skin, relieve irritation and slow down the course of inflammatory processes.

The result is noticeable after the first application – the gel works very delicately, improves texture, gently cleanses, does not tighten and does not dry out sensitive, dry or mature skin at all. The manufacturer claims that the tool is suitable for any type.

Pros and cons

Natural composition, economical consumption, easy to rinse off, suitable for sensitive skin

Not suitable for removing makeup, does not moisturize the skin

9. Lumene Klassikko

Lumene Klassikko. Photo: market.yandex.ru

Lumene Klassiko Deep Cleansing Gel will be the best face care product for every day. Of the features of the composition, the content of useful ingredients can be distinguished: northern cotton, which protects and nourishes with useful minerals, as well as arctic spring water, which has a neutral pH level close to that of the skin. It should be noted that the product does not use mineral oils and parabens.

This thick, clear gel forms a mild lather that suppresses oiliness and removes make-up residue with ease. After application, the absence of dryness and irritation is guaranteed. Recommended for sensitive and dermatitis prone skin.

Pros and cons

Suitable for all skin types, no fragrance, does not dry out the skin, effective cleansing and moisturizing

Does not cope with long-term makeup, high consumption, does not foam well

10. La Roche-Posay Rosaliac

La Roche-Posay Rosaliac. Photo: market.yandex.ru

La Roche micellar gel provides the most delicate care and effective make-up removal. The product does not contain alcohol, parabens and fragrances. The active ingredient is glycerin, as well as selenium-rich thermal water, which has a moisturizing and soothing effect. Thanks to these ingredients, redness on the skin instantly disappears, and the gel provides a noticeable refreshing and cooling effect.

Rosaliac has a transparent and non-thick consistency, and its peculiarity lies in the fact that it does not require pre-moisturizing the skin of the face for application. Also, it does not provoke irritation of the epidermis, therefore it is recommended for sensitive and problem skin.

Pros and cons

Suitable for all skin types, no fragrance, does not dry out the skin, soothes reddened skin, removes makeup well

High consumption, does not foam

How to choose a face wash gel

Of course, we must start with a thorough study of the composition of the gel. No matter what type of skin you are: dry, oily, combination – the safest and most gentle care will be provided to you by products that do not contain alcohol, parabens, sulfates, especially SLS (Sodium Lauren Sulfate). You should also be suspicious of silicones (Quanternium or Polyquanternium). But plant extracts with a bactericidal, softening effect will provide the skin with fullness and help build an additional barrier layer.

Even when choosing a gel, customers rarely pay attention to the smell, they say, this is not the most important thing, but at the same time, if the “washer” does not suit your sense of smell, you will soon put the bottle aside. And again, look at the composition. Perfumed aroma indicates the presence of fragrances, and this is an extra “synthetics”. The ideal option is the gel is completely odorless or with subtle plant notes.

Never buy a gel containing mineral oil. This is a refined oil product, whose “trick” is that at first it moisturizes and softens the skin well, and then it dries it out a lot. Plus, it imperceptibly clogs the ducts of the sebaceous glands, which leads to the formation of comedones and blackheads.

Last but not least, the best face wash is the one that suits your skin’s age. Three types of products can be distinguished here:

• Gels for adolescence. They must contain zinc, triclosan or salicylic acid. And by the way, here the presence of the alcohol component is not a tragedy at all. It will allow you to slightly dry the “blooming” skin and prevent comedones from forming.
• Gels for young skin. Any variants that contain herbal ingredients, in particular, extracts of sage, string, chamomile, celandine, aloe.
• Gels for mature skin should be with components that include both additional cleansing and nutrition. These are gels with lactic or glycolic acid, which will enhance the anti-aging effect and eliminate excess sebum. It is good if they include surfactants: coco-glucoside, cocamidopropyl, betaine, coco-betaine, caprylyl. These components gently and delicately cleanse the epidermis without overdrying or irritating it. They do not violate the lipid barrier and do not lead to moisture loss.

IMPORTANT! Use face wash only for evening care. In the morning, the skin does not need intensive cleansing from dust and cosmetics, so a light foam or tonic will be enough for it.

Expert opinion

Tatyana Egorycheva, cosmetologist:

— From the common myths about cleansing: there are gels for washing for the season. Like, some dry the skin too much in the summer, some do not provide sufficient moisture in the winter. In fact, if the washbasin does not initially give you uncomfortable sensations, then you do not need to change it often. The exception is when the skin really reacts strongly to the change of seasons, becoming more oily or, on the contrary, dry. But then it is better not to take a gel for washing, but to switch to more gentle cleansers.

And, besides, sometimes girls just like to change their makeup. I want another jar, a different smell, a novelty. For God’s sake! But remember that the shelf life of quality products is quite short and you simply will not have time to use up all the jars that you spent on.

And one more thing about the marketing ploy. In advertising for washing gels, manufacturers like to talk about extracts of medicinal plants that are part of them. However, in order for them to begin to have a beneficial effect on the skin, they must be applied for at least 15-20 minutes, which, of course, no one does in the case of cleansing before bed. Therefore, their presence in masks and creams is necessary, but washers are useless due to the short duration of exposure.

Popular Questions and Answers

Questions of interest to readers about how to choose the right gel for washing, what useful components should be included in the products, and which ones should be avoided, will be answered by Varvara Marchenkova, founder and chief technologist of the KHIMFORMULA company .

How to choose the right cleanser?

The right choice of face wash is the key to effective cleansing and healthy looking skin. The determining factors in choosing the right cleanser are the current condition of your skin and its type, as well as climatic conditions. For dry skin, the high percentage of sulfates contained in the product is detrimental. On the label, they are hidden behind the abbreviation SLS. Opt for mild plant-derived surfactants, such as cherimoya fruit enzyme concentrate, cocoglucoside, made from the fermentation of coconut oil, corn starch, and fructose, or cocamidopropyl betaine, which is made from the fatty acids of coconut oil. Such a tool is suitable for daily cleansing not only of dry facial skin, but also of normal and combination, as well as oily and problematic skin and will not overload it in the summer.

What beneficial ingredients should be in cleansers?

Dry facial skin requires increased hydration, so it is important to choose cleansers with a high content of moisturizing ingredients, such as extracts of chamomile, rose, centella, aloe vera, ginseng, rice bran, cucumber, vegetable glycerin, D-panthenol, polysaccharide complex, hyaluronic acid, sodium lactate, vitamins C and F, urea. These actives have strong hydrating and barrier functions, ideally care for dehydrated skin, relieve irritation, fight peeling and protect the stratum corneum from external influences. They are equally effective and safe at any time of the year. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eProblem skin gel often contains salicylic acid, zinc, aloe vera, tea tree essential oil. These components absorb excess sebum, soothe the skin, have a powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect, and prevent acne.

Which ingredients should be avoided in cleansers?

Regardless of your skin type or condition, avoid alcohol-based formulations that list the following ingredients on the label: Alcohol Denat., SD Alcohol, Alcohol, Ethanol, n-Propanol. They can cause irreparable damage to your skin, especially during the hot season when the skin suffers from a lack of moisture. In the summer, these concerns are most relevant, since the furanocoumarins contained in many essential oils, under the influence of sunlight, provoke serious skin burns. The optimal percentage of glycerin in the product should not exceed 3%, so feel free to refuse a product that has glycerin on the label in the first line of the composition.

How do you know if a facial wash is not suitable?

As with any facial cleanser, monitor the condition of your skin daily as you use the facial cleanser. If, after washing, you notice redness and increased dryness, which with each new use of the product are aggravated by irritation, an allergic reaction, itching, crackling and inflammation, these are serious signs that indicate the wrong choice of cleanser. Discard it immediately and let the skin rest for a couple of days, avoiding washing with formulations with a high content of anionic surfactants, such as sodium laureth sulfate (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), sodium myreth sulfate (Sodium Myreth Sulfate). They aggressively affect the stratum corneum of the skin, provoke a violation of the epidermal barrier and increase the evaporation of moisture from the skin. u003cbru003eu003cbru003e Even on the hottest days, do not wash your face with cold or ice water. Low temperature leads to vasoconstriction and outflow of blood, which slows down the sebaceous glands. The result is dry, irritated skin. Use room temperature water for washing.

Cleanser for problem skin: TOP 8 best products

Contents

• What is problem skin
• How cleansers work
• Types of funds
• Product Overview
• How to choose a cleanser for problem skin

What is problematic skin

From a classical dermatological point of view, problematic skin is skin. .. with problems. Initially, it was considered dry, oily and combination skin types.

Dry skin is sorely lacking in sebum, which causes:

• peeling;

• irritation;

• redness.

Proper cleansing of the skin itself can make it healthy. © iStock

Oily and combination skin, on the other hand, produces an excess of sebum, which leads to problems such as:

• uneven terrain;

• oily sheen;

• enlarged pores;

• comedones;

  “For the prevention of comedones, sometimes it is enough just to choose the right means of everyday care. If the skin is combination with a tendency to oiliness, then you can use the gel for washing for oily skin. It is more difficult if the skin is thin, sensitive, with dry areas and at the same time with comedones. In this case, more delicate cleansers are needed, for example, micellar water, and problem areas (not the whole face) with clogged pores can be wiped in the morning and evening with a tonic with salicylic acid and zinc.

• inflammatory elements;

• traces of post-acne.

Today, cosmetics manufacturers call “problem” oily and combination skin types. We will adhere to this point of view.

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How cleansers work

They need contact with water to be effective.

1. 1

   By mixing the product with water and foaming it, we remove dirt, dust, particles of fat from the face, clean the pores.

2. 2

   Then all this must be washed off.

There are two main groups of cleansing agents in our cleansers.

• Substances that dissolve grease and add dirt. These include all kinds of so-called Surfactant (surfactants).
• Exfoliants: acids (glycolic, lactic, salicylic) and abrasive particles .

It is surfactants that do the job of cleansing especially well: they form a thick foam, give a feeling of freshness and cleanliness, but some of them are unsafe. These are primarily sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate. They act too aggressively, damaging the hydrolipidic mantle of the skin, which can cause dryness and flaking, cause dehydration and premature aging.

To reduce the concentration of surfactants, manufacturers use combinations of surfactants. Or softer substances are used, for example, based on amino acids.

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Types of products

An effective cleanser should qualitatively cleanse oily and combination problem skin and fight imperfections without damaging its hydrolipidic mantle.

The following products are intended for use when washing.

Gel

Penetrating deep into the pores, perfectly cleanses the skin of oil and impurities. However, it can disrupt the lipid barrier, which can lead to dryness and irritation. Caring components – vegetable oils, extracts, minerals, vitamins, dietary supplements – will help to minimize the risk.

Foam

The same gel, but in a different form. Thanks to technological packaging with a dispenser, the product foams already at the time of application, which allows you to achieve the most gentle cleansing.

Despite the weightlessness of the texture, it copes with dirt very well. Suitable for sensitive problematic skin.

Hydrophilic oil

This product has entered our beauty arsenal in the wake of the Asian skincare craze, in particular, two-step cleansing. Hydrophilic oil also acts in two stages.

1. 1

   It is spread over dry skin with massaging movements to dissolve impurities, oil and make-up.

2. 2

   Wash off with plenty of water and then wash with gel.

Foam, despite the weightlessness of the texture, copes with pollution perfectly. © iStock

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Product Overview

L’Oréal Paris Infinite Freshness Soft Gel Face Cream

In contact with water, this product transforms into a weightless, gentle cleansing foam. Suitable for normal to combination skin: lotus and rose extracts soothe and moisturize.

Gel + Scrub + Mask Clear Skin 3-in-1, Garnier

Salicylic acid fights blackheads and inflammation, zinc dries pimples and regulates oil production. Eucalyptus extract has an antibacterial effect.

Intense Cleansing Gel to reduce oiliness, Normaderm Phytosolution, Vichy

Botanical cleansing base gently removes impurities of all types and prevents the appearance of imperfections.

Exfo Pro Anti-Acne Ultra Cleansing Gel with Brush, Garnier

Salicylic acid fights bacteria, eliminates pimples and oily sheen, plant extracts help restore skin. Soft bristle applicator provides deeper cleansing and helps prevent breakouts.

Effaclar Micro Exfoliating Cleansing Gel, La Roche Posay

Designed for skin with severe imperfections. Contains thermal water, soothes and moisturizes, gently removing makeup and excess sebum.

Cleansing Gel, Simply Clean, SkinCeuticals

With amino acids, HEPES, orange oil, aloe and chamomile extracts, removes waterproof makeup, restores radiance to the skin, evens out complexion and makes pores less visible.

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How to choose a cleanser for problem skin

Proper cleansing is the key to healthy skin, dermatologists convince us. Therefore, the process of choosing a means must be taken with all responsibility. First of all, it is necessary to take into account the type of skin, its problems and needs.

Oily problematic skin

Oily sheen, clogged pores, blackheads, pimples occur all over the face.

Oily problematic skin is less sensitive to surfactants, it is important to clean it thoroughly. Useful antibacterial, drying, oil-regulating substances:

Combination problem skin

In the T-zone, the skin is oily, prone to oily sheen and imperfections. And in the U-zone – dry, prone to peeling.