Cons: concentration may be too strong for some, which can lead to irritation and dryness; benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics Board certified dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse, FAAD, explains that it unclogs pores and redness with each wash.

As key as a face wash is to any skin care regimen, it’s a given that there are tons of different acne face washes available to buy. This, in turn, causes the skin to become oily, explains board certified dermatologist Dr. Rina Allawh, making it crucial to select a cleanser that keeps excessive oiliness under control. One of the first recommendations for clearing up acne is using a face wash. Active ingredients commonly found in face washes for acne include: However, you won’t have to worry about disturbing painful cysts or breaking the bank when using this deep cleaning cleanser.Pros: suitable for sensitive skin, tested for allergens, glycerin offsets the drying effects of salicylic acid Look for gentle, non-stripping formulas, and focus on hydration from the very first step of your skincare routine to help keep your skin soft and supple. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Cystic acne is a type of acne that’s usually characterized by pus-filled, deep, and painful pimples, making it important to find a cleanser that can successfully remove acne-causing bacteria and calm down any irritation caused by cystic pimples. She adds that benzoyl peroxide helps get rid of dead skin cells that clog pores, keeping future breakouts at bay. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and sulfur To help you do just that, we tapped Park and other board certified pros to break down 15 of the best face washes, based on your skin type, type of acne, and more. They also share helpful tips that can make all the difference for acne-prone skin.

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This cleanser helps kill acne-causing bacteria and is comedolytic, meaning it unclogs pores,” Shainhouse says. “Similarly, it also has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce redness.” The pH level of your skin care products can also negatively impact your skin, so look for products that help you maintain your skin’s pH. Platsidaki E, et al. (2018). Recent advances in understanding Propionibacterium acnes( Cutibacterium acnes) in acne. If you’re prone to acne, you may have tried a few different remedies and methods to cleanse your skin, including face washes.

Opt for oil-free, fragrance-free, and noncomedogenic products whenever possible. For people who experience dryness and sensitivity, be sure to moisturize to soothe the skin. Avoid harsh ingredients like sulfates. Should I use a face wash for acne daily? Topical benzoyl peroxide has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for acne. It’s commonly used in concentrations of up to 10 percent in over-the-counter (OTC) products, but prescription products with higher concentrations are available. Lu J, et al. (2019). Salicylic acid treats acne vulgaris by suppressing AMPK/SREBP1 pathway in sebocytes. After cleansing, moisturizing with a gentle, oil-free moisturizer to reduce peeling and irritation from anti-acne active ingredients in your cleansers and treatments can help manage acne. Mokaya says benzoyl peroxide is another skin care ingredient to look for as it has antimicrobial properties and works to eliminate acne-causing bacteria that’s lingering beneath the skin’s pores.It may also help to regularly change or wash your pillowcase, avoid touching your face, and regularly wash your hair. What should I look for in a face wash for acne?