What Are The Best Acne Cleansers For Oily Skin
Oily acne-prone skin is easier to manage than dry, acne-prone skin, for the simple fact that oily skin types can tolerate most acne medications better. For oily types, use a salicylic acid cleanser at least once daily to unclog pores. Salicylic acid also has strong anti-inflammatory properties, which help to prevent the formation of new acne lesions.
If you are also using benzoyl peroxide or retinoids, using salicylic acid twice daily may feel too drying. If this is the case for you, switch to a foaming cleanser in the evening to remove makeup and dirt. Going to bed without removing these particles from your skin can make acne worse. Foaming cleansers are appropriate for oily skin types because they help to remove some of the excess oil from your skin. People with dry skin need more oils on their skin, which is why foaming cleansers are only recommended for oily skin.
Can Cleansers Make Acne Worse
Yes and no. Cleansing is a vital part of any skincare regime but overdoing it – especially with exfoliating acids – is going to cause more problems than it solves.
Cleansers are very important, as effectively cleansing the skin can ensure make-up, sunscreen, sweat, pollution and debris are removed from the skin, reducing the risk of these leading to inflammation or occlusion of a pore, says Dr Ejikeme.
Although acids can aid us in our journey to flawless skin, its important to pick the right one, at the right percentage. Dr Ejikemes favourite? Salicylic acid is a key ingredient for acne. Choose 2% cleansers and use through the week, ensuring you do not over strip the skin
Theres also a skincare myth out there that if youre prone to oiliness, you should cleanse more often than your dry counterparts, but thats simply not the case. Acne is not caused by unclean skin. If you have acne-prone skin you should cleanse just as much as everyone else. Twice a day for 30 seconds advises Dr Ejikeme.
Garnier Men Acnofight Wasabi Mens Acne Cleanser
Garnier Men is a mens skin care brand under Garnier a leading brand from Europe. After the strong success and became the best-selling facial cleanser brand for Men in Southeast Asia. Garnier Men AcnoFight 100% genuine imported from Thailand. This is a product to prevent acne that is loved and chosen by many men.
Ingredient: Completely from nature such as Tea Tree, Japanese Matcha Green Tea helps fight inflammation, balance skin moisture, fade dark spots after acne quickly, increase skin elasticity to help firm, smooth skin to prevent acne. Prevents and reverses the signs of aging.
Uses:
- With anti-inflammatory, acne-fighting, and acne-preventing ingredients such as 2% Salicylic Acid in the cleanser, it is a predilection for oily skin with acne to help clear acne.
- At the same time, the excess oil on the face is also clearly secreted, the pores are minimized.
Using: Wet your face, then put an appropriate amount of cleanser into the palm of your hand, create foam, then apply to the face and gently massage for about 30 seconds 1 minute and then rinse with water. After washing your face with cleanser, use a clean towel to dry or use two hands to pat the water to dry naturally. Only use twice a day with cleanser is enough morning and night before going to bed. (Note: Wash your hands thoroughly before putting cleanser in the palm of your hand.
Reference price:VND XNX
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Aesop Fabulous Face Cleanser
Aesop is an established master of shop aesthetic and enticing aromas, but this face wash proves its magic extends to skincare. The Fabulous Face Cleanser is a mild, olive-derived cleanser enhanced with purifying and hydrating botanicals to cleanse gently without being too harsh. It is suited to normal skin types and has key ingredients of bergamot rind, chamomile bud and rosemary leaf, a well-judged blend to leave you feeling refreshed each morning. £23 for 100ml. Atmankind.co.uk
Best Overall Face Wash For Oily Skin

Zeichner also recommends products with salicylic acid if you are very oily, or have acne breakouts. Salicylic acid, he explains, is a beta hydroxy acid that effectively removes oil along with dead cells on the surface of the skin to mattify the skin and keep the pores clear. He recommends two: one a gentle lathering cleanser from Aveeno that is effective even on sensitive skin, and an acne-targeting wash from Clean and Clear.
Waldorf also recommends Aveenos Clear Complexion collection, including the foaming cleanser that has Zeichners stamp of approval. But for her patients, she starts them off with the cream version of the cleanser, which has a slightly higher concentration of salicylic acid she would choose the foam for those with dry acne-prone skin and the cream for those with oily acne-prone skin.
stck0pn835v0000bzy6d84i5fyf& tag=thestrategistsite-20″ rel=”nofollow”> Clean and Clear cleanser is currently only available through a third-party seller on Amazon. You can, however, buy the scrub version of this cleanser directly from Target.]
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Aesop In Two Minds Facial Cleanser
This Australian brand rarely puts a foot wrong, but is particularly well renowned for its skin-balancing, plant-derived and rejuvenating skin cleansers. Its fresh and herbaceous smelling In Two Minds is a gentle gel-based formulation for indecisive combination skin that gets busy on pollution, oil and dirt without compromising or stripping essential sebum. Featuring witch hazel and exfoliating salicylic acid, which helps decongest the pores, skin hydration balance is delivered in the form of sage, lavender and rosemary leaf oils, which, in addition, give the cleanser its distinctive and holistically botanical aroma. £23 for 100ml. At John Lewis.johnlewis.com
An Enzyme Powder Cleanser That Exfoliates Sensitive Skin Without Irritation
Most cleansers contain preservatives and stabilizing ingredients to keep them from spoiling, and that’s because they also contain water. The presence of water creates an environment where bacteria can easily grow, if there isn’t something in the formula to slow that process. But because powder cleansers â like this one that’s made from corn and rice bran â don’t contain any water, they also contain far fewer potentially irritating preservatives.
Once the powder comes in contact with your damp palms, it turns into a light foam that’s easy to handle. The slightly grainy texture and papaya extract in the formula work together to gently exfoliate sensitive skin without the irritation that often comes with using a scrub. And, you can even control the level of exfoliation by adjusting the amount of water you mix in.
Helpful review:“I absolutely love this face wash! I have sensitive, oily, acne-prone skin and this is so gentle on my skin that I use it every night. It’s not overly moisturizing for my oily face but still leaves it squeaky clean. This product has definitely helped keep my breakouts under control ever since I included it into my skincare routine. I’m definitely going to buy it again!”
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Olehenriksen Truth Juice Daily Cleanser
Henriksen makes levelling up into adult skincare fun. The Danish-born skin-brightening gurus eponymous grooming line, influenced by the Scandinavian sensibilities of good health and happiness equals skin that glows from within, is a does-what-it-says-on-the-tin collection that is packed with natural botanicals and powerful actives. The facial cleanser from its Truth range is one of the lines best-selling formulations. Inspired by the detoxifying benefits of a juice cleanse, it digs-deep, removing dirt and oil, with a rush of vitamin C, but doesnt strip the skin or leave it feeling compromised and irritated. Best suited to combination through to oily skin-types, the paraben and sulfate-free gel-cream mixes to a luxurious lather, with an uplifting citrus scent of natural orange, when added to water. Formulated with polyhydroxy acid , to help loosen and lift dead skin-cells and orange fruit water to revive and refresh the skin, the actual star of this show is Oles proprietary, signature blend called Truth Botanicals a cocktail of orange, lemon, rosehip, goji berry and sea buckthorn extract, to visibly brighten, energise and recondition the skin. £22 for 150ml. Atboots.com
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser
Challenging industry norms, The Inkey List, founded by Mark Curry and Colette Laxton, helps strip away the layers of jargon and confusion in skincare with results-driven solutions that feature hardworking and innovative ingredients at a very competitive price point . With one Inkey product sold every 30 seconds, the brands philosophy to keep it cheap, so as to give consumers the opportunity to experiment, is a strategy that is obviously paying off. With an ingredient-led collection, the pioneering brand also puts high-performance actives front and centre on its packaging. Using two per cent salicylic acid, a potent beta hydroxy acid , this face cleanser effectively removes grime and unclogs the pores to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and manage excess oil. Best suited for normal to oily skin types, the BHA offers a mild chemical exfoliation, supported by a zinc compound, to help control sebum production, and allantoin, which has anti-irritant and protective benefits. A non-drying, light-foaming formula that can be used day and night, this is particularly good for anyone prone to acne or blackheads. £10.99 for 150ml. Atlookfantastic.com. At Boots.boots.com
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Hanz De Fuko Gentle Face Wash
Designed to treat ultra-sensitive and very dry skin, this hypoallergenic solution gently lifts excess oil, dirt and other impurities. Its plant-based formula is both nourishing and hydrating, so will never leave skin feeling tight or dry and features a mild citrus fragrance. Infused with red dulse algae to encourage the healing of damaged cells and aloe vera, which is a natural acne fighter, it is also ideal for skin that is prone to breakouts. Mandarin orange rind and pomegranate help protect from oxidative stress, while the addition of white tea effectively reduces inflammation. Its moisturising benefits come from a blend of honeysuckle, sage oil, clove and açai. It builds to a very rich lather when activated with water and is mild enough to use both morning and evening. £22 for 237ml. Atmankind.co.uk
Triumph & Disaster Ritual Face Cleanser
Triumph & Disasters less is more approach to male maintenance has earned itself a loyal customer base, a following that has just been widened by being stocked for the first time at Mr Porter. Designed to specifically avoid drying and irritation, the refreshing Ritual foam cleanser, one of the heroes from this brand founded by ex-international New Zealand cricketer Dion Nash, forms the foundation for a healthy skincare routine that is suitable for all ages and all skin types. It employs the natural benefits of tamanu oil from Polynesia , willow bark extract , bentonite clay and peppermint oil . Mild yet mighty, it also tones the skin as it cleans, leaving a peppermint-fresh aroma after rinsing. £20 for 150ml. Atmrporter.com
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Is Face Wash Good For Acne
Many dermatologists have answered this question times without number. Using a Face Wash remains important if you have acne but you must be using a good cleanser.
The best face wash for combination skin and acne is one that should protect the skin barrier. It should help the barrier maintain a healthy shape too. Just using a face wash once will not clear your acne magically. Consistency is the key.
It is very important that you also check the ingredients of the face wash. If it contains harsh ingredients, then it will cause you more harm than good. There are two ingredients you should always look out for.
They are benzoyl acid and salicylic acid. The first helps to rid the skin of acne-causing bacteria while the second gently exfoliates the skin. Both are important for acne-prone sensitive skin.
Are Acne Face Washes Worth It

If youre dealing with pimples, then yes, an acne-prone face wash is worth investing in because non-acne face washes might contain pore-clogging or acne-causing ingredients like oils, according to Garshick. She added that your favorite hand soap isnt a worthwhile alternative to an acne face wash because hand soap is typically formulated to remove pesky bacteria which might cause dryness or irritation if used on your face.
Overall, medical experts say that an acne face wash is an effective at-home skin care product, but visible results wont happen overnight. Ortiz said regardless of what anti-acne treatments you use, itll take about four to six weeks to see a noticeable difference in your skin. Beyond being patient, you might experience skin purging, which is when the pimples come to the surface and clear house.
While purging is normal, Ortiz noted some patients will get discouraged by the acne flare ups, which is actually a sign the acne products are working. Most patients will start a product for acne, and then notice that they’re getting worse, and then they stop right when they are about to get better, she said. And because those patients stop their routine due to purging, they have to restart the skin care regime again, Ortiz noted. So if youre incorporating an acne face wash into your skin care routine, be diligent and patient before giving up on your skin care journey.
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Elemis Balancing Lime Blossom Cleanser
Introducing the saviour for your breakout-prone skin! Elemis Balancing Lime Blossom Cleanser is exactly that! Luxurious and non-irritating, its the perfect solution if youre looking for a cleanser that will clean your skin every day, and when I say clean, it does a damn good job at that! It cleans all makeup and dirt from the day, easily without any pressure or rubbing from you. The cleanser does a fab job at keeping the oil at bay, yet at the same time, it doesnt strip the skin of the good stuff.
It has a lovely, fresh scent although it does contain some fragrance. If you are sensitive to fragrance its probably better not to use it. However, for all others with sensitive skin, this cleanser may be the answer that your skin needs. Its incredibly soothing and gentle on the skin and helps to clear those annoying spots and blemishes. It will also help to reduce redness and flare-ups.
The main ingredient is as the name suggests is Lime Blossom. Lime Blossom helps to balance extra oils that build up on the surface of the skin and it also helps to clear the complexion. The cleanser also contains vitamin E which is great for moisturising and Lecithin- another moisturising ingredient.
The cleanser is very easy to use with little faff. All you need to do is apply some to your hands and rub between to warm it up, then apply to your skin in circular motions. Remove the excess product with a damp cloth or cotton-wool pad.
Pros
Acne Free Blackhead Removing Exfoliating Face Scrub
Acne free blackhead removing exfoliating face scrub is designed for those with serious acne and blackhead issues. The formulation is gentle on your skin.
Acne free scrub includes salicylic acid known to greatly reduce acne breakout and act as an exfoliator by cleansing skin and tightening pores.
Jojoba used in the scrub moisturize, soothe and hydrate the skin while charcoal draws out impurities from the skin. The scrub can be used for combination type black skin and dry skin.
- Removes blackheads and prevents acne
- Unclogs pores and tightens them
Cons:
- If it gets into your eyes, you may feel strong irritation due to strong salicylic acid.
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Kiehls Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Cleanser
The latest and, in our opinion, the greatest facial cleanser to come from this cult New York brand uses cannabis sativa seed and green oregano oils to help reduce inflamed and problem skin that is prone to irritation. Good for all skin types, but especially great for calming redness, its extra-gentle formula has a refreshing herby fragrance and, unlike many cleansers, doesnt dry skin out. While its been built to offer some solace to those who permanently suffer with discomfort, it is highly recommended for anyone who indulges in too much sun over the summer months. £24 for 150ml.kiehls.co.uk
Malin + Goetz Facial Cleansing Oil
Combing natural ingredients with advanced technology, this New York-based brand puts great emphasis on results-driven efficacy. Its uniquely textured oil-to-milk facial cleanser doesnt behave like your average face wash. To start with, it doesnt foam instead, you apply with dry hands and massage into a dry face before adding water to emulsify before rinsing. A gentle solution that suits all skin types, but especially good for those affected by sensitivity or dryness, it purifies, balances and softens without leaving skin feeling tight or stripped and has been formulated using high-quality ingredients. A blend of fatty, acid-based oils, including the deeply hydrating and purifying grape seed, avocado and olive oils, antioxidants and skin-nourishing agents efficiently remove daily grime and impurities. Lavender and eucalyptus, both known to have calming and balancing benefits, also play an important part, while chamomile and vitamins A and E leave skin well-conditioned and nourished. £32 for 12ml. Atcultbeauty.co.uk
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The Best Gentle Cleanser To Use Alongside Intensive Acne Treatments
If youâre using intensive, leave-on acne treatments, such as prescription topicals or products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, Dr. Zeichner recommends complementing them with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser he says that âa treatment cleanser and a treatment medication may be too irritating for the skin.â This cream cleanser from First Aid Beauty is fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and totally non-stripping. No exfoliating ingredients to be found in here, either. Instead, things like aloe, glycerin, and allantoin help soothe and calm stressed-out skin â the perfect antidote to any dryness or irritation that might crop up from topical acne treatments.