17 Best Acne Wipes And Pads to Cleanse And Purify Your Skin

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 15, 2024
Acne Wipes And Pads to Cleanse And Purify Your Skin
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Using the best acne wipes can help solve the worst acne problems that you may be facing. And for those who have never used one before, acne wipes are wet towelettes infused with chemical exfoliants and skincare actives that target areas on your skin affected by acne. To help reduce the appearance of blemishes and breakouts on your skin, all you need to do is swipe a single pad or wipe on the affected area and allow the formula to work its magic, which makes these products extremely convenient to use. Also, unlike elaborate skincare serums, masks, and strips, facial acne pads are very travel friendly and can be used outdoors. 

Nonetheless, the beauty market is saturated with cheap, alcohol-loaded facial wipes that do more harm than good to your skin. While such products claim to cleanse your skin, all they do is smear the dirt and oil from your pores over your skin’s surface and leave that residue there. Hence, to help you shop for the best products, we have curated a list of our utmost recommended acne wipes and a buying guide so you can understand better about them and make the best purchase. Scroll away to learn more.

17 Best Acne Wipes

Formulated with MicroClear technology, these salicylic acid wipes by Neutrogena deep cleanse the oil and dirt on your skin that trigger acne. It helps to dissolve whiteheads, blackheads, and pustules forming in your skin’s pores. The benzoyl peroxide content in the pads fights harmful bacteria, soothes bumps and cysts, and controls excess sebum production to boost the benefits of the product’s BHAs. Through chemical exfoliation, the product helps resurface the skin for a smooth and clear look.

Pros
  • Oil-free
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Doesn’t feel sticky
  • Shows results in 8 hours
  • Reduces redness and swelling
  • Great for oily and combination skin
Cons
  • Can be a bit drying
  • Best for Sensitive Skin

    BURT’S BEES Clarifying Facial Towelettes

    BURT’S BEES Clarifying Facial Towelettes
  • Infused with pink grapefruit, and other botanical extracts, this pack of towelettes by BURT’S BEES is beneficial in revitalizing your skin. It contains AHAs and BHAs from citrus oil and willow bark extracts that cleanse excess oil and debris from your skin’s pores that cause breakouts. While controlling sebum production, the product does not cause excessive dryness to your skin and does not tamper with its pH level. To top it off, its natural fragrance is quite indulgent and makes the skincare process enjoyable. The product is safe and free from parabens, sulfates, and SLS.

    Pros
    • Phthalate-free
    • Feels refreshing
    • Slightly hydrating
    • Leaves no residue
    • Good makeup remover
    • 99.1% natural ingredients
    • Biodegradable cotton cloth
    Cons
    • Tingles around the eye area
  • Best for Eye Makeup

    BIODERMA Sensibio H2O Makeup Removing Wipes

    BIODERMA Sensibio H2O Makeup Removing Wipes
  • Makeup removal can now be as easy as it is effective with Bioderma's Sensibio H2O Makeup Remover Wipes. They are biodegradable, offering gentle cleansing and soothing properties, even on the most sensitive skin. You will be able to effortlessly wipe away makeup and impurities while indulging in a calming effect on your complexion, making this product your skin's new best buddy. With every swipe, you'll get to experience the wonder of clean, and refreshed skin, without the fear of causing any irritation.

    Pros
    • Travel-friendly
    • Leaves no residue
    • Safe for the eyes
    • Contains no harsh chemicals
    • Hydrates the skin
    • Dermatologist-tested
    Cons
    • They dry out quickly once opened
  • Best Oil-free Formula

    Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Cloth

    Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Cloth
  • Koh Gen Do's Cleansing Spa Water Cloth is made from 100% organic sheets of cotton that are carefully packaged into sets of 30 to provide you with a long-lasting cleansing experience. They are gentle on the skin and act as a quick and easy method to remove makeup, cleanse pores, and nourish sensitive skin. You can bid adieu to the hassle of washing your face – just wipe it down and uncover natural and clean skin beneath. With a formula that's free from oils and alcohol, these wipes are the ideal skincare partner that you need for an effortless and refreshing cleanse.

    Pros
    • Convenient
    • Infused with nourishing ingredients
    • Resealable packaging
    • Non-greasy
    • Approved by dermatologists
    Cons
    • Slightly coarse texture
  • OXY ACNE MEDICATION DEEP PORE CLEANSING PADS

    OXY ACNE MEDICATION DEEP PORE CLEANSING PADS
  • With a 2% concentration of salicylic acid, these acne wipes by OXY work marvelously in resurfacing your skin by exfoliating dead skin cells. It dissolves whiteheads and blackheads caused by excessive sebum production. The product helps balance the pH levels of your skin and gives it a smoother texture. You can keep these wipes handy when traveling to quickly wipe off pollutants that settle on your skin. However, keeping in mind the BHA content in it, ensure you do not overuse it.

    Pros
    • Non-sticky
    • Visible results
    • Unclogs pores
    • Gentle formulation
    • Suits sensitive skin
    • Prevents future breakouts
    • Deep cleansing properties
    Cons
    • Alcohol may be a bit drying
  • Bioré Daily Deep Pore Cleansing Wipes

    Bioré Daily Deep Pore Cleansing Wipes
  • Fortified with the botanical goodness of green tea and coconut water, these facial cleaning wipes by Bioré effectively purify your skin. They deep cleanse your pores by dissolving oil, dirt, and comedones. Enriched with vitamin E and hydrolyzed castor oil, the wipes gently moisturize your skin and don’t dry it out, unlike other wet tissues. You can use these wipes to remove makeup when on the go or to simply refresh your skin.

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Leaves no residue
    • Humectant properties
    • Skin conditioning properties
    Cons
    • Contains parabens
  • Stridex Medicated Acne Pads

    Stridex Medicated Acne Pads
  • When you use these acne pads by Stridex after scrubbing your face off makeup, they help even out your skin’s surface by exfoliating bumps and superficial pimples. The product is fragrance-free and has a few filler ingredients, so you get a good concentration at a low cost. You don’t have to worry about the abrasive effects of the pads as they are made with specially textured towelettes that feel smooth against your skin.

    Pros
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Contains no alcohol
    • Dissolves blackheads
    • Doesn’t cause redness
    • Deep cleansing properties
    • Prevents future breakouts
    Cons
    • Not great for sensitive skin
  • Clearasil STUBBORN ACNE CONTROL 5IN1 DAILY PADS

    Clearasil STUBBORN ACNE CONTROL 5IN1 DAILY PADS
  • As the name suggests, these acne wipes by Clearasil combat five common skin problems to give your clear, beautiful skin. To begin with, the formula exfoliates blackheads and clogged pores to cleanse your skin. It helps control sebum production which gives an oily sheen to the skin. Besides, it diminishes the appearance of pimples and acne scars to help you achieve flawless skin. With these wipes, you don’t have to rub too hard as the textured fabric helps snag debris from your skin effortlessly.

    Pros
    • Leaves no residue
    • Reduces cystic zits
    • Pleasant, clean scent
    • Does not irritate the skin
    • Locks in natural moisture
    • Great product for teenagers
    Cons
    • Alcohol may be a bit drying
  • Best for Sensitive Skin

    Simple KIND TO SKIN Cleansing FACIAL WIPES

    Simple KIND TO SKIN Cleansing FACIAL WIPES
  • Enriched with the goodness of zinc PCA and glycerin, these facial wipes by Simple provide anti-inflammatory benefits to soothe cystic acne, papules, and redness on your skin. These wipes are infused with gentle skin conditioners that soften, smoothen and resurface your skin to give it a beautiful texture. They contain distilled water and vitamin E, which help seal in the skin’s natural water content while preventing dehydration. The product is one of the best face wipes for sensitive acne-prone skin.

    Pros
    • Feels refreshing
    • Contains no alcohol
    • Humectant properties
    • Balances skin’s pH levels
    • Removes dirt and impurities
    • Pure, skin-friendly ingredients
    Cons
    • Doesn’t remove waterproof makeup
  • Pacifica GLOWING MAKEUP REMOVING WIPES

    Pacifica GLOWING MAKEUP REMOVING WIPES
  • Unlike many drugstore towelettes, these acne facial wipes by Pacifica are not only cruelty-free but also free from harsh chemicals such as parabens and phthalates. Infused with AHA glycolic acid, these wipes chemically exfoliate acne-triggering dead skin buildup along with oil and dirt. Each wipe contains aloe vera and calendula extracts, and coconut water that work as luxurious humectants for your skin and leave it feeling refreshed and invigorated.

    Pros
    • Brightens your skin
    • Deep cleanses pores
    • Safe for sensitive skin
    • Leak-proof and spill-proof
    • Biodegradable natural fibers
    • Pleasant orange-vanilla scent
    Cons
    • Ineffective makeup remover
  • DUDE Face + Body Cleansing Wipes

    DUDE Face + Body Cleansing Wipes
  • Formulated with sea salt, green tea, and aloe vera extracts, these face and body cleansing wipes by DUDE are effective in improving your skin’s appearance. Each wipe does wonders in revitalizing your skin while soothing irritation and redness caused by cystic zits, and papules. Also, these wipes are fragrance-free, so they don’t cause any irritation of their own. The ingredients infused in these wipes are water-based, so you don’t have to worry about these wipes clogging your pores or triggering comedones.

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Pleasant, clean scent
    • 99% plant-based formula
    • Ideal for sensitive skin types
    • Fortified with skin conditioners
    Cons
    • Not adequately moist
  • Best Cost-effective Product

    REPLENIX GLY-SAL CLARIFYING ACNE PADS

    REPLENIX GLY-SAL CLARIFYING ACNE PADS
  • These premium beauty acne pads by REPLENIX contain an effective formulation of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and witch hazel that provide ample skincare benefits. To begin with, the exfoliating acids cleanse excess sebum, debris, and dead skin cells to give your skin a smoother, clearer surface. Next, the witch hazel content does its magic in combating acne-causing bacteria, which not only heals but also prevents future breakouts. As the product has a concentrated formula, ensure that you buttress your skin with a gentle moisturizer after using it.

    Pros
    • Tightens pores
    • Gives an even tone
    • Suits sensitive skin
    • Shows visible effects
    • Improves skin’s texture
    • Controls excess oil production
    Cons
    • No neutralizing skin conditioners
  • T.N. DICKINSON'S Witch Hazel Cleansing Pads

    T.N. DICKINSON'S Witch Hazel Cleansing Pads
  • These effective facial pads for acne by T.N. DICKINSON’S show sublime skincare results at a very pocket-friendly price. Infused with USP-certified witch hazel, these wipes target acne-triggering harmful bacteria while reducing inflammation, redness, and swelling caused by pimples. The aloe vera content works incredibly as a natural humectant and improves skin’s health and appearance. You can safely and generously use these towelettes as you need to wipe off dirt, oil, and sweat off your skin.

    Pros
    • Tightens pores
    • Reduces comedones
    • Adequate skin cleanser
    • Great for after-shave care
    • Effortlessly snags impurities
    Cons
    • Overpriced
    • Texture may feel a bit rough
  • Best for Antibacterial Properties

    Shea Moisture AFRICAN BLACK SOAP CLARIFYING FACIAL WIPES

    Shea Moisture AFRICAN BLACK SOAP CLARIFYING FACIAL WIPES
  • With these incredible wet towelettes by Shea Moisture, you can balance the pH levels of your skin that are often disrupted by environmental aggressors. The tea tree oil in these wipes reinvigorates your skin while the African Black Soap combats bacteria that trigger acne. Calendula extracts alleviate redness, swelling, and inflammation caused by breakouts and cystic zits. The product’s advanced botanical formula makes it one of the best anti-bacterial facial wipes for acne.

    Pros
    • Anti-fungal
    • Soothing properties
    • Moisturizing benefits
    • Biodegradable material
    • Non-greasy formulation
    • Fragrance-free product
    • Fortified with multivitamins
    Cons
    • Sheets may be a bit rough
  • T.N. DICKINSON'S Witch Hazel Cleansing Pads

    T.N. DICKINSON'S Witch Hazel Cleansing Pads
  • Perfect for hormonal acne-prone teenage skin, these facial cleansing pads by NIP + FAB have anti-bacterial properties that treat acne. With a 2% concentration of beta hydroxy acid, each facial pad chemically exfoliates dirt and dead cells while penetrating the pores to prevent future breakouts. Its witch hazel content soothes skin irritation and helps balance your skin’s pH levels with its astringent properties. The product also contains wasabi, a unique botanical extract that boosts the purifying actions of its other skincare actives. For the best results, wipe the affected area with these wipes 2-3 times a week.

    Pros
    • Antioxidant
    • Unclogs pores
    • Gentle formula
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Gives an even tone
    • Smells like a dream
    • Dissolves blackheads
    • Decongests your skin
    Cons
    • Not ideal for sensitive skin
  • NOXZEMA ULTIMATE ANTI-BLEMISH FACE PADS

    NOXZEMA ULTIMATE ANTI-BLEMISH FACE PADS
  • The textured surface of these salicylic acid wipes by NOXZEMA helps effortlessly cleanse dirt, oil, and impurities from your pores without having to rub much. When you swipe one of these wipes on your skin, its eucalyptus and menthol content will give you a refreshing tingle, so you know its ingredients are working their magic in fighting acne. These pads effectively dry out papules, pustules, and cystic blemishes off your face, giving your skin a smooth, clear texture.

    Pros
    • Works like a toner
    • Generous quantity
    • Targets comedones
    • Invigorates your skin
    • Prevents future breakouts
    • Anti-inflammatory benefits
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell
  • Pacifica GLOW BABY BRIGHTENING PEEL PADS

    Pacifica GLOW BABY BRIGHTENING PEEL PADS
  • Infused with skin-loving AHAs and BHAs, these facial peel pads by Pacifica slough off impurities and acne-triggering bacteria from the epidermal surface while retexturizing it. Its niacinamide content tightens your skin’s pores and stimulates protein production, which strengthens it and fights environmental aggressors. Enriched with apple extracts, these wipes condition and revitalize your skin after exfoliation. You can safely use these wipes 2-3 times a week as their formula is free from parabens, phthalates, SLS, and mineral oil.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Gentle formulation
    • Suits all skin types
    • Gives a radiant look
    • Pleasantly soothing
    • Hydrating properties
    • Doesn’t irritate the skin
    Cons
    • Slightly drying

    Now that you have seen our product recommendations for the best acne wipes, let us understand the factors to consider before buying them.

    How to Select the Best Acne Wipes for Your Skin?

    Chemical exfoliants: When your skin’s pores are clogged by oil, dirt, and dead skin buildup, you are likely to get pimples. Hence, your face wipes for acne should contain alpha and beta hydroxy acids to slough off these impurities and retexturize your skin. While AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, etc. are effective for dry to normal skin, BHAs like salicylic acid and willow bark extract are recommended for oil-prone skin. If you are looking for a salicylic acid product, ensure it contains about 0.5% to 2% of its concentrate so that it is safe as well as effective. 

    Anti-bacterial Properties: Certain skin-harming bacteria that get trapped in your skin’s pores are also a significant cause of acne problems. This is why you should look for acne pads that have anti-bacterial formulations. Look for products with ingredients such as tea tree oil, citrus extracts, witch hazel, etc. as they are incredible in combating acne-triggering bacteria.

    Anti-inflammatory Properties: Cystic acne and certain papules are notorious for causing swelling, and redness in your skin. Hence, it is pivotal that your acne pads soothe the affected areas of your skin and alleviate the irritation. Ingredients such as aloe vera, licorice root, calendula, chamomile, cucumber, green tea, and witch hazel have excellent soothing properties. 

    Humectants And Skin Conditioners: While exfoliation is necessary, it makes your skin vulnerable to dehydration and external damage if you don’t seal in the moisture. So look for wipes infused with humectants and skin conditioners that buttress your skin after sloughing off impurities. Ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerin, vitamin E, calendula, caprylyl glycol, etc. work incredibly in hydrating your skin. Regardless of these benefits, any effective acne pad will have drying effects on your skin. Hence, do not dismiss these products for being less hydrating, but instead, follow up with a good moisturizer after using them.

    Gentle Formulation: While it is pivotal to avoid parabens, sulfates, and phthalates in every skincare product, facial wipes often contain alcohols that can be quite drying on your skin. Also, certain fragrances and essential oils can be quite bothersome for sensitive skin types. Therefore, it is best to invest in alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and naturally derived formulations.

    Unlike facial cleaning wipes or makeup removers, acne pads are specifically crafted to target the underlying causes of breakouts on your skin. Hence, we recommend you to carefully read our buying guide and keep it handy when shopping for the best acne wipes. The above-mentioned products are highly effective for your skin as they contain purifying and anti-bacterial properties. Ensure you understand your skin type and problems as well as check the ingredients of the products before making a purchase. Happy shopping!

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Keeping your skin clean is the first step of your self care routine! And when it comes to acne-prone skin, it is quite tedious, to say the least. It is because the accumulated sebum, bacterial growth, whiteheads and blackheads make the situation hard for you to keep in check. Our skincare expert, Anoushka, proposed a mess-free and handy solution that can make the purifying and cleansing process way easier for you. After thorough research, she rounded off the listed wipes as they don't take much time to wipe away all the impurities to give you efficient results!

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More