For blemish-prone skin, a great skin-care routine starts with the best face wash for acne. We know there’s a dizzying number of facial cleansers on the market, and finding a formula that effectively targets hormonal acne, whiteheads, cystic acne, blackheads, and other blemishes isn’t the most straightforward task. So we (and our board-certified dermatologist friends) are here to help. Those with acne-prone skin, in particular, should be laser-focused on finding an acne cleanser that unclogs pores, gently exfoliates, and doesn’t exacerbate existing blemishes.

So, you may ask, what face washes do dermatologists actually recommend? Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, has some handy, essential guidelines she abides by when shopping for an acne cleanser. She always recommends gentle cleansers over harsh soaps—especially ones with physical exfoliants—to clear the skin of dirt and excess oil. Don’t aggressively rub, scrub, or over-cleanse either (twice a day, morning and night, is perfectly fine) to avoid worsening your skin’s condition and encouraging scarring. With that in mind, read on to pick out one of these eight best face washes for acne to add to your cart and your routine.

Our Top Face Washes for Acne

Best Overall: Tata Harper Clarifying Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: Red or reactive skin needs a cleanser that won’t exacerbate existing irritation, Tata Harper’s Clarifying Cleanser gives you that deep, satisfying clean, clearing away dead skin, excess oil, and congestion that comforts stressed-out skin instead of stripping it—thanks to a sulfate-free formula that’s loaded up with soothing ingredients such as chlorella, honey, and mint. (Refreshing!) As far as smoothing skin and clearing pores, lactic and citric acids from fermented sugar and salicylic acid get the job done—and very well, might we add.

Pai before applying the Tata Harper Clarifying Cleanser

Pai after applying the Tata Harper Clarifying Cleanser

Best for Inflamed Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Cleanser

La Roche-Posay

Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Cleanser is a do-it-all breakout fighter. It clears blemishes, smooths rough texture, cuts through oil, and helps keep future flareups in check, thanks to a 4% concentration of benzoyl peroxide. New York City board-certified dermatologist Jessica Krant, MD, sums this ingredient up best: “Benzoyl peroxide is so effective and reliable for acne because it works via several different mechanisms at once,” she previously told Allure. “It is both antimicrobial, killing bacteria and other organisms, and an exfoliant, helping to unclog pores and gently debride the surface layer of skin.” So, there you have it: antimicrobial, plus anti-inflammatory, plus exfoliant, equals a powerful acne-fighting ingredient.

The formula also includes lipohydroxy acid (a milder alternative to salicylic acid) to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, without being too harsh on sensitive skin. Unlike other acne cleansers, it doesn’t leave your face feeling dry or tight—even with twice-daily use—partially due to the addition of glycerin.

Allure senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick applying the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

Herrick after using the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

Lexi Herrick

Best Makeup-Removing: SkinCeuticals Simply Clean Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: If you’re dealing with acne, double-cleansing is non-negotiable. (If you’re not doing it yet, consider this your sign.) While we always recommend starting with a dedicated makeup remover—cleansing balm, oil, micellar water, your pick—SkinCeuticals’ Simply Clean Cleanser pulls extra weight by lifting leftover makeup, grime, and oil in your second cleanse. It’s powered by exfoliating sulfonic acid (an exfoliant that sloughs off dead skin cells), as well as glycerin for a moisture boost, and chamomile to counteract any signs of irritation from the acid. Word to the wise: It’s strong enough to clear out buildup but can be a bit too intense for sensitive skin.

Wohlner before applying the SkinCeuticals Simply Clean Cleanser

Wohlner after applying the SkinCeuticals Simply Clean Cleanser

Best for Uneven Texture: Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel

Eau Thermale Avène

Cleanance Cleansing Gel

Why it’s worth it: To our dismay, glowy skin can creep into shiny/greasy territory real fast. Eau Thermale Avène’s Cleanance Cleansing Gel curbs shine and keeps it from creeping back. To thank is comedoclastin, a milk thistle extract that helps reduce oil and visibly minimize blemishes throughout the day. Also included are gentle surfactants for foamy suds and Eau Thermale Avène’s thermal spring water—sourced directly from France—to calm irritation and redness. Though the Cleanance line is designed for acne-prone skin, this formula skips the usual heavy-hitters like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, making it a welcome find for sensitive, oily types. We’re constantly reaching for this cleanser post-workout or after a sticky summer commute.

Best for Dry Skin: Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser

Paula’s Choice

Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: Great for dry, acne-prone skin, this cleanser is packed with glycerin and panthenol to hydrate and soothe while still tackling breakouts. It contains 0.5% salicylic acid—a gentler dose compared to the max 2% allowed in OTC formulas—so it’s less likely to dry out or irritate skin. While it’s not as strong as higher percentages, the salicylic acid in this formula is still super effective for acne and can clear breakouts over time, says board-certified dermatologist David Kim, MD.

Best Drugstore: Differin Daily Deep Cleanser

Differin

Daily Deep Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: Even though it was the first prescription acne drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over-the-counter (OTC) use, Differin is still as reliable as ever. For example, the Daily Deep Cleanser is not only affordable but highly effective at keeping acne at bay (a winning combination!). Of note, 5% benzoyl peroxide is a maximum-strength dose that is “still gentle and generally well-tolerated,” according to Dr. Chang. She also notes that the chemical compound has been shown to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria. Just take your time thoroughly rinsing off the cleanser, as the acid can stain dark towels.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Drunk Elephant Beste No.9 Jelly Cleanser

Drunk Elephant

Beste No.9 Jelly Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: Michele Green, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, recommends Drunk Elephant’s Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser for sensitive skin, since it’s a fragrance-free formula that uses a blend of mild surfactants—including a coconut-derived one rich in fatty acids—to cleanse without causing irritation. As a non-irritating backup, glycerin softens skin and locks in moisture. Although it’s especially well-suited for sensitive skin, all skin types can use it thanks to its balance of deep-cleansing yet hydrating properties, Dr. Green says.

Best Exfoliating: DamDam Snow Mushroom Salt Cleanser

Damdam

Snow Mushroom Salt Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: This 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner from J-beauty brand DamDam is a waterless cleansing bar that’s low-waste, long-lasting, and effective. The minimalist formula includes select powerhouse ingredients: snow mushroom (a hydration hero similar to hyaluronic acid), salt to help clear buildup and gently exfoliate the skin, and plant fiber for a satisfying foam that makes you feel squeaky-clean. For double-duty exfoliation, slip the bar into the included textured glove to gently buff and polish your skin on both your face and body (just make sure to use a light hand here!).

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in a face wash for acne?

Dr. Chang tells us to look out for two powerhouse ingredients: salicylic acid, a type of beta hydroxy acid (or BHA) that “goes deep into the pores to clear them from excess oil and dirt,” and benzoyl peroxide, which guards against inflammation and kills acne-causing bacteria. Milder ingredients include tea tree oil or green tea, which also provide skin-soothing benefits (essential for reactive, acne-prone skin).

Note: Face washes marketed for acne-prone skin can help with blemishes, but Dr. Kim keeps it real, saying they’re not the most critical part of an acne routine since they’re rinsed off. The real heavy lifting comes from more intensive spot treatments and other leave-on products.

What if I’m on an acne prescription?

Dr. Kim knows acne firsthand—he went through two rounds of Accutane himself, which now shapes how he guides patients through prescription treatments. He’s a firm believer that if you’re on a solid topical or oral prescription regimen, you can use just about any cleanser—even one that’s not acne-specific. That said, he notes, “If a patient has very mild acne and is only using over-the-counter treatments, adding an acne-focused cleanser can be helpful.”

So, I used a cleanser…now what?

As for follow-up tips, always apply any acne medications immediately after cleansing to allow the active ingredients to work their magic, which Dr. Chang says can take up to 6 to 12 weeks of continued daily use. And never forget to moisturize. Rather than clogging your pores, a lightweight cream will ensure your skin stays hydrated and protected, especially if you’re using a drying topical medication. Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in West Islip, New York, recommends avoiding layering retinoids, as well as products that contain fragrance and alcohol, on top of acid-laced cleansers, as these pairings can lead to dryness and irritation.

Meet the experts

• Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City
• David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group in New York City
• Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in West Islip, New York
• Michele Green, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best face washes for acne, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: formula, which acne concerns are targeted (whiteheads, blackheads, cystic acne, etc.), skin type, price point, and efficacy. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

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