ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (2024)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (1)

Forget what you've heard before now, people. An acne face wash is your best line of defence for breakouts – whether you're battling them on the daily or dealing with the occasional pulsing pimple.

A skin flare-up can happen for many reasons. Hormonal fluctuations can trigger a flare-up, a hefty helping of dairy can leave your chin lined with whiteheads or increased cortisol levels can exacerbate acne. But know that a good face wash for acne-prone skin can go a long way too.

But where to start? The beauty industry is saturated with products claiming to help blemish-prone skin overnight, but it’s a marathon, not a sprint when it comes to getting that perfect balance between too oily and too dry.

The best acne face washes to shop now

How we test

Oh, where to start? When it comes to testing the best face washes for acne-prone skin, there are a lot of things to consider – but luckily (for you), we've dealt with our fair share of blemish breakouts and hormonal pimples so we can scout out the best ones in town.

First up, we've got the sensorial factor. Our top players feel soft and gentle on the skin and deeply cleanse without stripping or leaving a drying sensation. While it may sound obvious, our faves do exactly what they promise – cleanse! Each one does a stellar job at sloughing away makeup and daily grime without requiring much elbow grease.

Then – the biggie – the ingredients list. Finding the right cleanser to work on acne-prone skin requires the right formula to effectively wash the skin while reducing breakouts and acne – and the best ones can prevent future flare-ups too. Our edit contains formulas that are packed with acne-fighting heroes, like salicylic acid and niacinamide, as well as conditioning ingredients (read: ceramides) to keep the skin barrier happy.

Below, see the formulas that truly live up to the task and keep on scrollin' for the expert advice on EYNTK about face washes for acne. You can thank us later.

Best foaming cleanser for acne

Medik8 Clarifying Foam

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (13)

Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (17)Can we get a bigger bottle, please?

Medik8 doesn’t mess around when it comes to busting blemishes: its Clarifying Foam can be found in many a beauty ed’s cupboard because it genuinely does bits.

The light and airy formula is packed with AHAs and BHAs to gently exfoliate and decongest pores, while niacinamide helps to reinforce your skin barrier and keep irritation at bay.

An elite option that will humble any pimple that gets a bit too big for its boots.

Best budget cleanser for acne

The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (18)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (19)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (20)Contains salicylic acid to exfoliate and unclog pores
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (21)Simple formula makes it suitable for those with sensitive skin
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (22)Affordable
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (23)Reduces and prevents breakouts
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (24)Some may want a more complex formula with additional actives

Find skincare ingredients an overwhelming, confusing beast? Then The Inkey List is flying to the rescue as its whole MO is about keeping things as simple as poss.

Take this cleanser. It's based around one key ingredient: salicylic acid. The chemical exfoliant is well-known for being an acne conqueror and has been given the seal of approval by Dr Ejikeme as a must-have in your routine if you're prone to breakouts.

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CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (25)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (26)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (27)Contains salicylic acid to exfoliate and prevent breakouts
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (28)Boosted with ceramides to comfort the skin barrier
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (29)Affordable
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (30)Fragrance-free
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (31)It doesn't look cute in your mirror pics – sorry

A literal godsend for dry acne-prone skin, CeraVe's SA Smoothing Cleanser features our favourite friend salicylic acid but is boosted with hard-working hydrators hyaluronic acid and ceramides to ensure you're left supple, not stripped.

Not just for your face, feel free to slather this cleanser on your body to say toodaloo to bumps and breakouts too.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (32)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (33)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (34)Thoroughly cleanses the skin without stripping
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (35)Suitable for sensitive skin
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (36)Manages oil production and exfoliates dead skin cells
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (37)Some users have reported a purging phase before using it

When it comes to fighting acne, the Effaclar range is up there as one of the best known. The Purifying Foaming Gel has been specially formulated for oily skin, using some well known acne-fighting ingredients like zinc PCA to keep oiliness in check and citric acid to rid dead skin cells.

La Roche-Posay keeps its fragrances and ingredients to a minimum and steers well clear of parabens, so it's a goer even if you have sensitive skin.

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Murad Clarifying Cream Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (38)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (39)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (40) Contains salicylic acid to tackle blemishes and green tea to reduce inflammation
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (41)Does a stellar job at removing makeup and impurities without stripping
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (42)Has a creamy formula that feels comforting to use
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (43)It's a little expensive compared to others

In Murad we trust, right? As one of the OG dermatologist-founded brands, there are so many products we rely on to tackle a host of concerns. But for acne? We're looking right at the Clarifying Cream Cleanser.

The milky formula gently dissolved makeup and grime without stripping the skin of moisture, while powerhouse actives like salicylic acid clear out those pores and prevent future breakouts. It lathers lightly too, so you know you're giving your face a good ol' scrub.

Best for sensitive skin

No7 Derm Solutions Calming Gel Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (44)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (45)

Now 50% Off

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (46)Gently removes makeup and oils without stripping
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (47)Keeps the skin barrier hydrated and calm
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (48)Fragrance-free
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (49)Affordable
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (50)Not potent enough for those with deeper set acne

When fighting a battle with acne, it's not always about high-active formulas – your skin needs a break, too. This creamy and comfortable cleanser from No7 will purify your skin and remove daily grub while nourishing the delicate barrier.

Then, if you choose to, you've got a fresh canvas to apply your active ingredients. We know it's not the sexiest cleanser around, but you just can't argue with genuine results.

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47 Skin Everyday Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (51)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (52)Velvety formula lightly lathers for a good ol' scrubbing
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (53)Made with silver to prevent future breakouts while fighting existing ones
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (54)Hydrating ingredients keep the skin barrier happy
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (55)A more expensive player in this edit

Whether you deal with frequent breakouts or rouge pimples, 47 Skin is the brand to know about. Each formula contains its patented Silver Chitoderm – a powerful antibacterial ingredient that targets the cause of acne: bacteria.

Not only is this cleanser made with silver to stop and prevent acne, but it also contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid which supports the skin barrier and increases hydration levels. Stay loyal to it and plump, smooth and clear skin will be yours.

Youth to the People Kale + Green Tea Spinach Vitamins

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (56)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (57)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (58)Formulated with kale, green tea, spinach, and vitamins to cleanse the skin
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (59)Removes oil and impurities without stripping the skin
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (60)The natural scent may not appeal to everyone
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (61)Designed for gentle cleansing, as opposed to acne fighting

Youth to the People is a science-led beauty brand that considers the environment as much as your skin.

Using antioxidant-rich leafy greens to purify skin, it's also fully vegan friendly and cruelty free. If you're looking for an effective cleanser with a serious eco-conscience then this needs to be added to your skincare routine pronto.

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Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (62)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (63)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (64)Gently removes makeup and impurities without stripping
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (65)Comes with a handy muslin cloth to remove oils and makeup
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (66)Formulated with hydrating and nourishing ingredients
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (67)Another spenny player
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (68)Doesn't contain any active ingredients to fight breakouts

An OG cleanser, nothing quite beats the feeling of a thick cream melting away makeup. This one from Liz Earle has one countless awards and draws on soothing ingredients like chamomile, rosemary and eucalyptus alongside hydrating cocoa butter to rebalance and even out skin.

For optimal exfoliation, use a muslin cloth and warm water. Your acne will wonder what's hit it.

StriVectin Gentle Daily Clarifying Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (69)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (70)

Now 15% Off

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (71)Brimming with BHAs and zinc to unclog pores and fight acne
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (72)Infused with green tea to reduce inflammation
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (73)Lightly lathers to remove makeup and excess oils
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (74)Some may prefer a creamier formula as opposed to a gel

StriVectin's Gentle Daily Clarifying Cleanser is a lightly lathering face wash that removes makeup and gently cleanses the skin, but works exceptionally hard to prevent upcoming breakouts, too.

How's this all possible? It's all thanks to ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide and green tea extract that promote a clearer complexion while ensuring irritation stays away. That's right, this is one cleanser that knows how to show off.

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Best hydrating cleanser for acne

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (75)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (76)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (77)Formula maintains the skin's pH balance for a hydrated and irritation-free barrier
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (78)Gently removes dirt and makeup while keeping the skin hydrated
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (79)Suitable for those with sensitive skin
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (80)It doesn't contain active ingredients to fight acne

A total classic, we've been recommending this cleanser to anyone who will listen for years now.

It's a solid choice for all skin types, but the acne-prone will love that it's pH-balanced, meaning it'll leave your skin barrier exactly as it wants to be: balanced, hydrated and clean.

Best body wash for bacne

Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (81)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (82)Comes in a massive 500ml bottle
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (83)Formulated with the right ingredients to tackle body acne
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (84)Lightly lathers and still feels conditioning
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (85)It doesn't have much of a scent, where some may prefer a fragranced body wash

Breakouts on your face suck, but you know what’s also a real nuisance? Bacne.

As those who have an acne-prone complexion are also more likely to experience bacne, we’d suggest keeping this clarifying body wash in your shower cubby too.

Packed with salicylic acid, glycerin and olive fruit oil, it’ll gently resurface without the risk of stripping your skin and disrupting your moisture barrier.

What’s more, the chunky bottle will keep you going for months so it’s great value for money too.

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Acnecide Face Wash

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (87)Contains benzoyl peroxide, a potent active know to fight breakouts
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (88)Deeply cleanses pores and removes build-up
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (89)May be too intense for those with sensitive skin
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (90)The packaging ain't cute

If you're breakout-prone, one of the best ingredients you can use to kill acne-causing bacteria is benzoyl peroxide. The Acnecide Face Wash contains 5% benzoyl peroxide to treat mild and reoccurring breakouts effectively and it's one of the most affordable out there too.

Just be warned that this key ingredient can stain things like towels and pillowcases to be sure to use old (but clean!) ones whilst this face wash is in your skincare routine.

Best gel cleanser for acne

Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel Cleanser for Blemish-Prone Skin

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (91)

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (92)

Now 20% Off

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (93)Regulates oil production and reduces shine
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (94)Removes makeup and oils without stripping the skin
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (95)Contains Thermal Spring Water to keep the skin barrier calm and hydrated
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (96)Those with sensitive skin may not like the strong fragrance

Not only is Avène's Cleanance Cleansing Gel great for use on the face, but it's also safe to use on the body. Whether your skin is feeling extra sensitive or you've got some irritation, the formula helps to soothe and reduce redness, without stripping the skin.

The formula also contains Avène's soothing thermal spring water which has been used for over 270 years to care for sensitive skin.

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Best cleanser for oil absorption

Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (97)

Pros
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (98)Formulated with the right ingredients to clear up acne and keep the skin barrier content
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (99)Effectively cleanses without stripping or drying out the skin
Cons
  • ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (100)Can we pls get a bigger tube?

Caudalie's vinopure range is great for stressed-out and blemish-prone skin. Some of our favourite products in the range include the salicylic spot solution, the blemish control salicylic acid serum and last but by no means least, the purifying gel cleanser.

The rich gel texture lathers gently into the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of breakouts and excess oil. It truly is one of our favourite products to reach for when stressed-out skin strikes.

What causes acne?

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (101)

As with a lot of things to do with our body, acne can easily get out of our control. Dr Ejikeme, Founder and Medical Director of Adonia Medical Clinic, explains: “Acne is primarily driven by genetics, but there are environmental aspects that can precipitate or aggravate it.”

What could you be doing wrong when it comes to your skin? Turns out, quite a bit: “Using occlusive oils, over-exfoliation, stress, poor sleep, high sugar diets can all contribute. When spots do occur, touching and squeezing them can make things worse, too” says Dr Ejikeme.

And while we love all the skin transformation videos that creep up on our social media, remember it takes time and a lot of dedication to replenish the skin's delicate barrier, so don't expect results overnight.

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Can cleansers make acne worse?

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (102)

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, it’s important to pick the right one and at the right percentage. Dr Ejikeme’s favourite? “Salicylic acid is a key ingredient for acne. Choose a cleanser containing around 2% salicylic acid and use it throughout the week."

There’s also a skincare myth out there that if you’re prone to oiliness, you should cleanse more often than your dry-skinned friends, but that’s 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: that's twice a day for 30 seconds,” confirms Dr Ejikeme.

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (103)

BTW, our Beauty Special dedicated to skincare is on newsstands on the 27th of August. Don’t miss your chance to grab our beauty bible full of skincare tips and product recs for now to keep forever.

ATTN: The 15 acne face washes that actually reduce inflammation and breakouts (2024)
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