Platsidaki E, et al. (2018). Recent advances in understanding Propionibacterium acnes( Cutibacterium acnes) in acne. Unsure of where to start? Here’s our guide for keeping skincare stress to a minimum. From what to look for in your ingredients list to what to avoid, we’ve got you covered. If you’re prone to acne, you may have tried a few different remedies and methods to cleanse your skin, including face washes.

Not every skin type is the same, so it’s important to shop for a facial cleanser with your unique skin type in mind. If you’re confused about what your skin type is or what your skin’s pH level is, it may be helpful to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. The pH level of your skin care products can also negatively impact your skin, so look for products that help you maintain your skin’s pH. Finally, try to avoid cleansers that have exfoliating acids in them like glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids as they can aggravate sensitivity. After cleansing, moisturizing with a gentle, oil-free moisturizer to reduce peeling and irritation from anti-acne active ingredients in your cleansers and treatments can help manage acne. Board certified dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse, FAAD, explains that it unclogs pores and redness with each wash.However, you won’t have to worry about disturbing painful cysts or breaking the bank when using this deep cleaning cleanser. Cons: concentration may be too strong for some, which can lead to irritation and dryness; benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics Opt for oil-free, fragrance-free, and noncomedogenic products whenever possible. For people who experience dryness and sensitivity, be sure to moisturize to soothe the skin. Avoid harsh ingredients like sulfates. Should I use a face wash for acne daily?

Stringer T, et al. (2018). Clinical evidence for washing and cleansers in acne vulgaris: A systematic review. To do just that, she advises investing in this hormonal acne-friendly cleanser, as it uses salicylic acid as an active ingredient to keep greasiness to a minimum. Because adult acne often goes hand-in-hand with hormonal acne (considered one and the same), this cleanser may also benefit people with adult acne. To help you do just that, we tapped Park and other board certified pros to break down 15 of the best face washes, based on your skin type, type of acne, and more. They also share helpful tips that can make all the difference for acne-prone skin. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. There aren’t any human studies done (as there are ethical concerns with testing ingredients on pregnant people), but a 2011 research review notes glycolic acid is considered safe during pregnancy because only a small amount is absorbed systemically.A note on lathering: This product doesn’t lather because it omits sulfate. While many people complain when a cleanser doesn’t foam and become sudsy, the sulfate that creates this effect is just that: an effect to make you feel like you’re cleansing. It serves no other purpose and can cause irritation for some people. She adds that benzoyl peroxide helps get rid of dead skin cells that clog pores, keeping future breakouts at bay. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and sulfur Pros: suitable for sensitive skin, tested for allergens, glycerin offsets the drying effects of salicylic acid While severe scars from cystic acne are hard to treat, people often mistake post-inflammatory redness and hyperpigmentation as scarring, which can be treated easier. While there are several dermatological treatments available for treating lingering acne marks, Shainhouse says using topical products enriched with antioxidants, like vitamin C, can also help brighten and fade these marks away.

It may also help to regularly change or wash your pillowcase, avoid touching your face, and regularly wash your hair. What should I look for in a face wash for acne? Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and sulfur are two ingredients that remove dead skin cells that clog pores, Mokaya says. These ingredients can also promote collagen production and remove sebum from the skin, which can be beneficial to aging and oily skin types. Mokaya says benzoyl peroxide is another skin care ingredient to look for as it has antimicrobial properties and works to eliminate acne-causing bacteria that’s lingering beneath the skin’s pores. In animal studies, adverse reproductive effects were only observed in much larger amounts, much more than what’s used in topical skin care products, according to the review.

One of the first recommendations for clearing up acne is using a face wash. Active ingredients commonly found in face washes for acne include: For some, a flare-up may cause itchiness. For others, it could be a breakout, stinging or even a burning sensation. An impaired barrier function (the skin’s protective layer) is the main reason behind sensitivity, which can be caused by things such as genetics, environment and lifestyle (using harsh skincare, for example). If you’ve got eczema or rosacea, you may need to take extra care to ensure that you’re using a product that provides a more gentle cleanse and doesn’t strip skin of valuable oil and moisture. This salicylic acid cleanser from Neutrogena is a good example of a drugstore product to consider, as it helps keep excess oil and dead skin cells under control with each wash. If you have eczema, a skin condition that causes the skin to become dry and inflamed, Mokaya stresses the importance of finding a face wash that’s both hydrating and gentle.