10 Best Face Washes for Acne-Prone Skin

Whether it’s acne, ‘maskne’, bad breakouts or hormonal spots, we’ll do anything to get them gone. And by anything, we mean we’ll try all of the acne-fighting formulas to see which one clears up our skin best.

Navigating the world of skin care for acne-prone complexions can be tricky, though. With everything from micro-exfoliants and serums to overnight treatments on offer, finding a product that soothes instead of stresses can be hard. That’s where face wash comes in.

While they may seem like the simpler, less-effective option, face washes are in fact the first step to tackling pimple-prone skin. Their lightweight, foam texture makes washing away dirt, oil, makeup and sweat all the easier. Clogged pores become unclogged, breakouts are banished and problematic skin is no longer a problem.

Sound like something you need, ASAP? Keep scrolling, as we round up the best face washes for acne-prone skin.

1. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel

Whether it’s cluster spots, red, angry breakouts or under-the-skin lumps, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel can lend a helping hand. This gentle but effective face wash is a firm favourite of ours as it purifies and soothes skin, without causing irritation. The gel-to-foam formula eliminates dirt and oil without stripping away essential moisture, so you can reveal a clean and clear complexion.

2. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

If you’re on Tik Tok, then you’ll most certainly be familiar with this facial cleanser from CeraVe. The cult-classic cleanser is a constant sell-out, here’s why. The foaming gel is packed with essential ceramides that cleanse and protect the skin barrier, as well as hyaluronic acid, which retains moisture. An added dose of niacinamide keeps skin calm, reduces excess oil production and minimises pores. The result? Soft, smooth, spot-free skin.

3. CosRx Low pH Good Morning Cleanser

Introducing, the perfect morning face wash. Made with a mildly acidic pH, this cleanser works with your skin’s natural pH level in order to keep your complexion balanced throughout the day. Any excess oil or waste that builds up overnight is rinsed away, whilst tea tree oil reduces enlarged pores and prevents that midday shine from seeping through.

4. REN Clearcalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser

If you’re willing to splash the cash in order to put problematic skin back on track, then allow us to introduce you to the Clarifying Clay Cleanser from REN. Designed to deal with blemishes and sebum build-up, this face wash balances, purifies and exfoliates. There’ll be no signs of dryness or soreness, just a clarified complexion with a deep-clean feel.

5. Bioré Baking Soda Anti-Blemish Cleansing Foam

We understand that not everyone wants to spend a lot of coin on a new skin care product. That’s why we’ve thrown this budget-friendly but effective face wash from Bioré into the mix. The creamy, foam formula utilises a salicylic acid and baking soda blend in order to deep clean pores, prevent spots, minimise oil and gently exfoliate.

6. Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Foam

Belonging to Clinique’s infamous 3-step clear skin system, this cleansing foam is all you need to get breakouts under control. The mild, medicated face wash soothes and calms inflammation around problematic areas, keeps pores clear and removes dirt and excess oil, so you can indulge in a blemish-free complexion.

7.Dermalogica Active Clearing Skin Wash

If anyone can supply an acne-fighting formula that works, it’s the skin experts behind Dermalogica. Salicylic acid powers this face wash and provides a natural exfoliation that unclogs pores. Soothing ingredients, such as menthol, eucalyptus and tea tree ensure that you can reveal a calm and clear complexion.

8. Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser

Salicylic acid, aloe vera, chamomile and thyme; Mario Badescu has poured the best spot-busting ingredients into a daily face wash so you can flaunt a healthy-complexion. Tackling congested, oily skin, the cleanser gives pores a deep clean and gentle exfoliation.

9. Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser

Wave bye-bye to breakouts and blemishes, as Kate Somerville provides the ultimate daily face wash. Boasting a whipped foam texture, this cleanser wipes dirt, impurities and oil from the surface of your skin, soothes inflammation and minimises pores, all without disrupting the natural barrier. The formula is medicated, meaning its strong stuff, so a little goes a long way.

10. Indie Lee Purifying Face Wash

Giving your skin a real detox, the Indie Lee Purifying Face Wash is your fast track to a blemish-free complexion. A cocktail of antioxidant-rich ingredients works to remove impurities, soothe skin and eliminate oil, whilst rose, lavender and jasmine extract soothe and soften. It’s the perfect addition to any skin care routine.

It’s time to re-think your skin care routine. Snap up one of the breakout-busting formulas above and use it as the first step in your regime – consistently! Before you know it, your skin will be clean, clear and less congested. On the hunt for more acne-fighting skin care products? Check out The 10 Best Moisturisers for Acne.