Acne is annoying, and there's a good chance you know its troublesome nature, especially if you have acne-prone skin. But now, you can say goodbye to your acne woes since we are here with our selection of the best drugstore face washes for acne. Also known as acne vulgaris, it is one of the most common inflammatory skin conditions faced by people across the world, irrespective of their age and gender. And yet, what causes acne may still be a tricky and complicated question to answer. Based on our observation, we can tell you how to manage them efficiently without burning a hole in your pocket.

With drugstore face washes for acne, you no longer have to struggle. These face washes are easily available and fit within your budget. They are typically infused with well-researched ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, zinc PCA (1), and some botanical extracts like witch hazel and tea tree oil. These face washes deep cleanse the skin and remove dead skin cells, debris, and excess oil to unclog pores. A holy grail for congested skin, they also regulate sebum production and stop the acne-causing bacteria from spreading. 

In short, these drugstore face washes are as effective as high-end brands. So, don't just wait and join us as we explore the best ones available in the market!

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  BEST OVERALL

  Peter Thomas Roth | Acne Clearing Wash

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Experience clearer, healthier skin with Peter Thomas Roth Acne Clearing Wash, the go-to choice in drugstore face washes for instant skin clarity. This powerhouse blend features maximum-strength 2% Salicylic Acid, renowned for its acne-fighting prowess. Say goodbye to breakouts as this gentle yet effective formula clears up existing blemishes and prevents future flare-ups. Elevate your skincare routine with this dermatologist-recommended solution, designed to purify and rejuvenate your complexion. Embrace the confidence of clear, radiant skin, making every day a good skin day effortlessly.

2

Best for Sensitive Skin

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

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Sometimes we end up being harsh on our skin just so that we can get rid of the pesky breakouts. But with the CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser, you don't have to do that. Because this drugstore face wash for acne has a very gentle sulfate-free formulation. It won't lather much but trust us when we say that it works! It comes packed with the goodness of salicylic acid, 3 types of ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. It effectively exfoliates skin without stripping it of natural oils. Drawing from our experience, it is highly effective at keeping acne at bay.

3

Best for Oily Skin

MARIO BADESCU ACNE FACIAL CLEANSER

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MARIO BADESCU’s Acne Facial Cleanser is your solution to clearer, healthier skin. Specially formulated for combination and oily skin, this oil-free face wash harnesses the power of salicylic acid and soothing aloe vera to deeply cleanse and clarify your complexion. Say goodbye to pesky breakouts and hello to a fresh, revitalized glow. With its deep pore-cleaning action, it effortlessly removes impurities, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Take control of your acne and unveil the radiant, clear complexion you deserve.

4

Best in Budget

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash

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Feel the texture of a cream but in a face wash. It might sound impossible but it's not because we are here talking about the best acne face wash from PanOxyl. It does a great job of regulating sebum production and reducing acne. It comes with 10% benzoyl peroxide, which is the maximum strength you can get your hands on without any prescription. As indicated by our tests, it is called a 'foaming' wash but it doesn't lather much. It cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates, all at the same time.

5

Bet Vegan

Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid 10% Exfoliating Face Cleanser

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Get ready to experience a brighter complexion while driving your acne off the surface of your face. It is all thanks to this 10% glycolic acid acne face wash from Botanic Tree. Don't get confused with its high concentration. It is still a super gentle exfoliating cleanser that will leave you with smooth and even-toned skin. However, our team discovered through using this product that its effect on hyperpigmentation and acne scars may take a long time to be visible. It is formulated with tea tree, lavender, and shea butter, among other skin-loving ingredients to give you a glow like never before.

6

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

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Good face washes tend to cost a lot of money but not this one. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is a cult favorite for many reasons, one of which is its impeccable ability to clear up acne. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid, it works its magic on the skin by going deep into the pores and cleaning out the excess sebum, dirt, and debris. This drugstore acne cleanser is a must-have for those with oily and acne-prone skin. After putting it to the test, we discovered that it has a bit of cooling effect which feels great during hot and humid days.

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Best in Quick Relief

Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser

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Cleansers may come and cleansers may go, but nothing will topple Neutrogena from its position as one of the best drugstore brands. With this acne cleanser, you can now fight the unwanted guests on your face. It contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, which not only helps reduce acne but also prevents it from coming back with regular use. It is the best cleanser for acne with a rich creamy texture. Based on our firsthand experience, if you like cleansers that foam nicely, you will absolutely love them.

8

Best for Breakouts

Differin Daily Deep Cleanser

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Kill the acne-causing bacteria instead of killing your skin barrier. You can ensure a damage-free face cleanse with this Differin Daily Deep Cleanser. With 5% benzoyl peroxide, it is the best facial cleanser for acne, if you are a beginner or want to include a drugstore exfoliating cleanser in your daily skincare routine. It cleanses pores effectively without stripping your skin. However, when we trialed this product, we found that it must be used sparingly. Once a day is more than enough, or you might end up with dry and irritated skin.

9

Best for Oily Skin

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

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This Neutrogena face cleanser for acne is a holy grail for oily and combination skin types. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid, it goes deep into the pores to give you a thorough cleanse. It effectively clears away the zits and prevents them from coming back. Don't misunderstand. It's not a miracle in a bottle. What it does is reduce the intensity of acne flare-ups to a bare minimum. After conducting experiments with it, we discovered that it may cause a little dryness, but it can easily be tackled with a good moisturizer.

10

Best Multi-purpose

Dr Song Skin Care 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Wash

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You can kill this acne (like BLACKPINK killed this love) in an easy-peasy manner with the Dr. Song Skin Care acne face wash. This drugstore facewash for acne is not just for the face. You can use it to treat acne on any part of your body, from your scalp to your back. With 10% benzoyl peroxide, it is a good face wash for acne that effectively reduces inflammation and oiliness to give you clear and happy skin. Through our practical knowledge, we can say that its consistency feels more like a lotion and still leaves the skin clean.

11

Best for Dry Skin

Acne Free Oil-Free Acne Cleanser

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It is the best face cleanser for acne if you are a beginner at exfoliating. With 2.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide, it is perfect for dealing with mild acne. This face wash from Acne Free not only treats acne but also has ceramides to soothe and repair skin. It offers a hydrating cleanse and is one of the few BP cleansers that don't feel over-drying. It gives the squeaky clean feeling without the skin feeling tight and dry. Our investigation demonstrated that with consistent use, you will observe a great difference in your skin.

12

Best for Deep Cleanse

Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Cooling Cleanser

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You can always trust Bioré to combine nature and science to bring you the best-ever skincare products. This cleanser for acne is one such incredible innovation that boasts the benefits of salicylic acid and witch hazel in one formula. It deep cleans the pores and reduces the appearance of pimples. You only need a small amount for it to show its effect. It has a cooling effect that will help you relax after a long tiring day. Our findings show that no matter how dirty your skin may get, this face wash will clear it all.

13

Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser

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Say goodbye to excess oil and the ensuing breakouts with the best face wash for acne-prone skin from Murad. It easily breaks down the excess sebum to give you a thorough cleanse. And yet, it has a surprisingly gentle formula that feels nice on the skin. After washing your face, it will leave you with a cooling sensation that will refresh you, whether you use it in the morning or at night. We have found from using this product that this drugstore face wash does an incredible job of clearing skin with regular use.

14

Vichy Laboratories Normaderm Phytoaction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel

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Achieving acne-free flawless skin has been made easier, thanks to this face wash from Vichy. It is quite popular for being the best at what it does. It is formulated with 0.5% salicylic acid, which is gentler on the skin. It cleanses the pores thoroughly and removes dead skin cells, but without making the skin feel dry. It is one of the best cleansers for acne which is also ideal for sensitive skin types. It has a translucent gel-like texture that forms a very good lather. Our research indicates that it is the best acne wash for beginners.

Choosing the best drugstore face wash for acne requires you to consider a few essential aspects so that you make an informed choice. Here are the factors that you must consider before making a purchase:

Skin Type

Acne is not only a problem for oily skin types. It can flare up even if you have dry or normal skin type. Therefore, you must consider your skin type, whether it is normal, oily, dry, or a combination skin type. You must also consider if you have sensitive skin. It will help you choose the right formulation and texture so that you don't end up over-drying your face.

As per our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, “For sensitive, acne-prone skin, a drugstore face wash that contains gentle ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and salicylic acid can be beneficial. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.”

Ingredients

Look for ingredients that will help combat acne, like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, tea tree oil, and willow bark, to name a few. Avoid harsh ingredients and check the ingredient label to make sure the skincare product doesn't contain any allergy or irritation-causing ingredients.

Formula

Opt for a non-comedogenic, pH-balanced formula so that it doesn't clog your pores. It must be hypoallergenic and gentle if you have sensitive skin. Look for soothing ingredients like chamomile, aloe vera, calendula, and panthenol, to name a few. For oily skin, opt for gel-based acne face wash. Foaming face cleanser works best for combination skin types and dry skin, opt for a cream-based face wash for acne.

Concentration

If the concentration of active ingredients like salicylic acid is specified, then always start low and slow. Pick the lowest concentration as a beginner and gradually go up as per your skin’s tolerance levels.

Consult a Dermatologist

If you have very sensitive skin or if you have serious skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or melasma apart from being acne-prone, then you must consult a board-certified dermatologist for personalized recommendations that would suit you the best.

Read Reviews

Do your part and research customer reviews and feedback on various online platforms. This will help you have a better understanding of the efficiency and performance of the drugstore face wash of your choice.

Using a drugstore face wash for acne is not difficult, but there is still a right way of doing things so that you can get optimal results. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a drugstore face wash for acne:

• Skincare starts with clean hands. So, you must first wash your hands thoroughly
• If you are wearing makeup, make sure to remove it using micellar water, cleansing balm, or an oil cleanser, depending on your skin type and needs.
• Once you have removed the makeup efficiently, use lukewarm water to splash your face. It will ease the cleansing process.
• Take a small amount, about a dime-sized, of the acne face wash on your fingertips. Make a lather and gently apply it to your face. Create more lather as you go about gently massaging your face.
• Do the massage for about 60 seconds for a proper and thorough cleanse.
• If the acne wash has active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, let the face wash for acne sit on your face for a minute or two to let the treatment work.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.
• Follow it up with your regular skincare routine.
• Since you are using actives, some of which may increase sensitivity to the sun,  don't forget to wear sunscreen daily whenever you go out.     

Management of acne doesn't have to be frustrating for you and your wallet. We suggest starting with the basics and adding the best drugstore face wash for acne into your daily skincare routine. Such a face wash is formulated with acne-fighting active ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide without costing you an arm or a leg. It does its job effectively despite being cheaper than the high-end face cleansers. From occasional breakouts to cystic acne, a face wash specially formulated for acne-prone skin will work wonders. It will not only clarify your skin but add a healthy-looking glow. You may use it for your face, body, or even scalp. With our top recommendations for acne cleansers, you are not only going easy on your pocket but also your skin.

Contributor: Dr. Anna Chacon, Dermatologist - MyPsoriasisTeam