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Best Face Wash For Acne And Blackheads (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a solution to your acne and blackhead woes, a good face wash is the first step to achieving clear, smooth skin. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one to choose.

One important factor to consider is your skin type. Is your skin oily, dry, combination, or sensitive? Different face washes are designed to address specific skin concerns, and using the wrong one can exacerbate acne or cause irritation. Another important factor is the ingredients in the face wash. Look for products that contain acne-fighting ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, but be cautious of harsh chemicals that can strip the skin of its natural oils.

Are you tired of trying different face washes that just don't seem to work? Have you ever considered that your current skincare routine may be contributing to your acne and blackheads? This article will delve into the importance of choosing the right face wash for your skin type and highlight key ingredients to look for. Plus, we'll share some top-rated face washes that have been effective in clearing up acne and banishing blackheads. Don't give up on achieving clear skin – read on to learn more.

10 Best Face Wash For Acne And Blackheads

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for those with acne-prone and oily skin types looking to reduce redness and blackheads.
2
The product is ideal for those looking for an effective acne treatment face wash with key ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and hyaluronic acid.
3
This product is ideal for treating and controlling acne and oily skin with its purifying clay and salicylic acid formula.
4
This product is ideal for daily skincare and helps to minimize pores, remove acne and blackheads, and provide a clear complexion.
5
This product is ideal for treating acne on the face, skin, buttocks, back, and body with a strong concentration of benzoyl peroxide.
6
It is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, clearing clogged pores and blackheads with salicylic acid.
7
Ideal for acne-prone and aged skin, with clogged pores, blackheads, and wrinkles due to the potent combination of alpha hydroxy acids and botanical serum.
8
The product is ideal for acne-prone skin care and contains salicylic acid acne medication.
9
This product is ideal for eliminating blackheads and acting as an acne medicine through daily exfoliation.
10
This product is ideal for clearing blackheads, unclogging pores and treating acne with natural exfoliants and salicylic acid.
Ideal for those with acne-prone and oily skin types looking to reduce redness and blackheads.
The product is ideal for those looking for an effective acne treatment face wash with key ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and hyaluronic acid.
This product is ideal for treating and controlling acne and oily skin with its purifying clay and salicylic acid formula.
This product is ideal for daily skincare and helps to minimize pores, remove acne and blackheads, and provide a clear complexion.
This product is ideal for treating acne on the face, skin, buttocks, back, and body with a strong concentration of benzoyl peroxide.
It is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, clearing clogged pores and blackheads with salicylic acid.
Ideal for acne-prone and aged skin, with clogged pores, blackheads, and wrinkles due to the potent combination of alpha hydroxy acids and botanical serum.
The product is ideal for acne-prone skin care and contains salicylic acid acne medication.
This product is ideal for eliminating blackheads and acting as an acne medicine through daily exfoliation.
This product is ideal for clearing blackheads, unclogging pores and treating acne with natural exfoliants and salicylic acid.

1. Clear Salicylic Acne Wash By Paula's Choice

The Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Acne Cleanser is specially designed to fight acne breakouts, blackheads, redness, uneven skin tone, and dullness. It contains salicylic acid (BHA) that dissolves pore-clogging impurities, preventing acne breakouts. This acne face wash gently removes dirt, makeup, and excess oil without drying the skin. The cleanser has a soothing gel texture that refreshes and calms the skin, making it suitable for all skin types and ages, including sensitive skin.

To use, apply the cleanser twice daily as the first step in your morning and evening skincare routine. Follow it up with your favorite Paula's Choice toner, exfoliant, serums, spot treatment, and moisturizer. For daytime use, always finish with SPF 30 or greater. Paula's Choice CLEAR collection also includes a Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 2.5 – 5% Benzoyl Peroxide, an Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), and our Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+.

Paula's Choice Skincare products are backed by science and work effectively. They are free from fragrance, parabens, and fluff, making them safe and gentle on the skin. Keep your skin healthy and acne-free with the Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Acne Cleanser.

Pros

  • Contains salicylic acid (BHA) that dissolves pore-clogging impurities
  • Gently removes dirt, makeup, and excess oil without drying the skin
  • Suitable for all skin types and ages, including sensitive skin
  • Has a soothing gel texture that refreshes and calms the skin
  • Can be used twice daily as the first step in your morning and evening skincare routine

Cons

  • – None

2. Cerave Acne Foam Wash With Hyaluronic Acid

Get clearer and healthier-looking skin with the Acne Face Wash with Benzoyl Peroxide by CeraVe. This non-sealed face wash helps to reduce acne, pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads, and prevents new acne from forming. It also promotes skin healing, leaving your skin smooth and radiant. The benzoyl peroxide formula gently removes dirt and excess oil without stripping your skin of its natural moisture.

Transform your daily cleansing routine with the Cream Cleanser to Foaming Cleanser by CeraVe. This face wash has a creamy texture that transforms into a rich foam as you lather onto your skin. It soothes and hydrates your skin while gently removing impurities, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and moisturized.

Say goodbye to dry and irritated skin with the Hydrating Acne Wash by CeraVe. This face wash is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which helps your skin to retain its natural moisture, and niacinamide, which helps to soothe your skin. This fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula gently cleanses your skin and reduces acne without causing dryness and irritation.

Protect and maintain your skin's natural barrier with the 3 Essential Ceramides by CeraVe. Ceramides are essential lipids that make up 50% of the skin barrier. This face wash is formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), which help to restore and maintain your skin's natural barrier, providing long-lasting hydration and protection against the elements.

Get dermatologist-developed skincare with CeraVe. This brand has products for all skin types, including dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, and acne-prone skin. CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and is suitable for all skin types. So, you can trust it to help you achieve healthy-looking skin.

Pros

  • Helps clear acne, pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads
  • Prevents new acne from forming and promotes skin healing
  • Creamy texture transforms into a rich foam, leaving skin feeling moisturized
  • Formulated with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to soothe and hydrate skin
  • Contains three essential ceramides to help restore and maintain skin's natural barrier
  • Developed with dermatologists and suitable for all skin types

3. Cerave Acne Control: Purifying Clay Cleanser (8oz)

The CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser is a foaming facial cleanser that helps gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, reduce blackheads, and the appearance of pores. It has salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that treats and prevents acne. BHA exfoliants feel less harsh than physical ones like face scrubs. The gentle wash and exfoliation smooths and cleanses skin without leaving skin feeling stripped of moisture. This face wash is formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier. It also has purifying clay to help absorb excess oil and niacinamide to help calm skin. Moreover, it is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic.

Developed with dermatologists, the CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser is suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more. It comes as a clear gel and transforms into a light, foaming face wash as you lather. It is an effective acne face wash that removes impurities without irritating the skin. Using this face wash regularly can help prevent new breakouts from forming.

To use, wet your face and apply the cleanser with your fingertips or a washcloth. Massage the cleanser gently into the skin in a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

Pros

  • Contains salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that treats and prevents acne
  • Formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier
  • Purifying clay helps absorb excess oil, and niacinamide helps calm skin
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic
  • Developed with dermatologists and suitable for various skin types

Cons

  • – May cause dryness and irritation when used excessively

4. Clear Skin Daily Cleanser

Achieve a clearer-looking complexion with the ultra-refreshing cleansing gel. This cleansing gel is formulated with Willow Bark Extract, a natural Salicylic Acid, which gently and effectively exfoliates to unclog, purify pores and minimize blemishes without causing any irritation. The formulation is specifically designed to address the needs of blemish-prone skin, making it an ideal solution for those who are struggling with acne and breakouts.

The cleansing gel is easy to use and can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine. Simply apply a small amount to damp skin and massage gently. Rinse thoroughly with water and pat your skin dry. The refreshing gel formula leaves your skin feeling clean, soft, and hydrated.

This cleansing gel is perfect for those who are looking for a gentle yet effective way to maintain a clear-looking complexion. The natural ingredients used in the formulation make it a safe and healthy option for your skin. With regular use, you can expect to see a noticeable improvement in the overall appearance of your skin.

Say goodbye to blemishes and hello to a clearer-looking complexion with this ultra-refreshing cleansing gel.

Pros

  • Formulated with Willow Bark Extract, a natural Salicylic Acid, which gently and effectively exfoliates to unclog, purify pores and minimize blemishes without causing any irritation
  • Specifically designed to address the needs of blemish-prone skin
  • Easy to use and can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine
  • Leaves your skin feeling clean, soft, and hydrated
  • Natural ingredients make it a safe and healthy option for your skin
  • Regular use can lead to a noticeable improvement in the overall appearance of your skin

5. Clearskin: 10% Acne Treatment Cleanser

Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash is a potent face and body cleansing treatment that targets the primary cause of acne growth and combats excessive oil production. Formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide, this dermatologist-tested wash helps to unclog pores, reduce inflammation and clear skin. The non-foaming (SLS-free) cleanser can be used for face acne, body acne, back acne, butt acne, cystic acne, adult acne, and teen acne.

Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash helps clear up blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and below-the-skin cysts, while easing inflammation and redness. The wash increases cell turnover, removing the mixture of excess oil, dead skin, and debris that clogs pores. With its simple, clean, safe, and effective formulation, you get real results with clean, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients. Our products don’t chase trends. Instead, we harness the healing powers of potent ingredients. You won't find parabens, phthalates, sulfates (SLS and SLES), alcohol, paraffin, formaldehyde, mineral oil, synthetic fragrance/color, petrolatum, DEA, triclosan, GMOs, or animal byproducts in our formulations. Humane is also a proud member of PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies program. Made in the USA.

In a world where a clean skincare movement has gained momentum, the Humane Company was created to bring a clean, minimal-ingredient philosophy to acne treatment. We focus on powerful and proven ingredients while eliminating anything harmful, questionable, or superfluous. With an 8 FL. OZ. bottle, Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash is an effective and safe solution to combat acne on both face and body.

Pros

  • Formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide
  • Targets the primary cause of acne growth and combats excessive oil production
  • Unclogs pores, reduces inflammation and clears skin
  • Can be used for face acne, body acne, back acne, butt acne, cystic acne, adult acne, and teen acne
  • Helps clear up blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and below-the-skin cysts, while easing inflammation and redness
  • Increases cell turnover, removing the mixture of excess oil, dead skin, and debris that clogs pores
  • Simple, clean, safe and effective formulation
  • Vegan and cruelty-free ingredients
  • Free from harmful chemicals and animal byproducts
  • Proud member of PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies program
  • Made in the USA

6. Normaderm Acne Face Wash: Clear Skin Cleanser

The Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel is a dermatologist-tested formula that effectively removes impurities, excess oil, and dirt from the skin after the first wash. This translucent gel lathers quickly into a fresh foam for easy rinsing, leaving skin feeling soft and visibly purified. This product is suitable for adults with acne-prone skin and is designed to address common skin concerns such as acne, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and oily skin or acne. It contains carefully selected ingredients including Salicylic Acid, Zinc & Copper Minerals, and Vichy Volcanic Water.

This deep cleansing gel is formulated to reduce acne blemishes, clogged pores, and blackheads. After the first wash, excess oil is reduced, and skin looks mattified and less shiny. With continued use over four weeks, the skin looks smoother, blackheads are less visible, and pores are tightened. The formula is allergy-tested and has a light fragrance.

The Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel is an effective solution for those looking to improve their skin tone and texture while addressing acne and other skin concerns. Its carefully selected ingredients work together to leave skin feeling purified, soft, and visibly improved.

Pros

  • Removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities after the first wash
  • Suitable for adult acne-prone skin
  • Reduces acne blemishes, clogged pores, and blackheads
  • Improves skin tone and texture over time
  • Contains carefully selected ingredients including Salicylic Acid, Zinc & Copper Minerals, and Vichy Volcanic Water
  • Translucent gel lathers quickly into a fresh foam that rinses easily
  • Leaves skin feeling soft and visibly purified
  • Allergy-tested formula with light fragrance

7. Alpha Clear – Aha Acne Cleanser And Serum

The AHA 10% Glycolic Acid Face Wash Acne Cleanser is an effective solution for those who want to achieve smoother and more hydrated skin. This alpha hydroxy acid formula is designed to exfoliate the uppermost layers of the skin, revealing a fresh and refined complexion. With regular use, this face wash can make the skin firmer and more youthful-looking.

This glycolic acid exfoliating cleanser creates a rich lather that removes impurities around and inside the pores. It effectively removes clogged pores, blackheads, dead skin, dirt, and other buildups that can cause inflammation and painful breakouts. It also helps prevent these breakouts from happening in the future.

Misumi’s AHA 10% Glycolic Acid Face Wash Acne Cleanser is made with safe and naturally-derived ingredients that are carefully curated for their effectiveness and safety. It features extracts of chamomile, lemon, grapefruit, rosehip oil, and seaweed, which are known for their skin-nourishing properties. This product is safe for all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin.

This face wash is 100% made in the USA in a cruelty-free facility, ensuring that it meets strict standards for quality and safety. It is also an anti-aging face firming wash that can reduce age spots, dark spots, sun spots, discoloration, and acne scars. It leaves the skin with a healthy glow that lasts from morning to night.

Order now to enjoy the benefits of Misumi’s AHA 10% Glycolic Acid Face Wash Acne Cleanser and achieve smoother, more hydrated, and youthful-looking skin.

Pros

  • Exfoliates the uppermost layers of the skin to reveal a fresh and refined complexion
  • Creates a rich lather that effectively removes impurities around and inside the pores
  • Made with safe and naturally-derived ingredients
  • Safe for all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin
  • 100% made in the USA in a cruelty-free facility
  • Reduces age spots, dark spots, sun spots, discoloration, and acne scars
  • Leaves the skin with a healthy glow

8. Blackhead Eraser Daily Facial Scrub, 2% Salicylic Acid.

Clean & Clear Blackhead Eraser Facial Scrub is an effective solution for those who are prone to blackheads and breakouts. This facial scrub comes in a 5-ounce container and is formulated with 2% salicylic acid, which is a proven acne medication that lifts away dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin's surface to prevent pimples and breakouts.

The unique formula of this facial scrub contains natural micro-scrubbers that gently exfoliate the skin's surface and provide a deep-down clean. It is recommended for daily use to keep the skin clean and free of blackheads. With regular use, this facial scrub can help reduce the number of blackheads and promote clearer, healthier-looking skin.

This blackhead-eliminating facial scrub is specially formulated to be gentle and oil-free, making it suitable for all skin types to help eliminate blackheads and acne. It is easy to use and provides a refreshing and invigorating cleanse, leaving the skin looking and feeling clean and smooth.

Pros

  • Contains 2% salicylic acid, which is a proven acne medication
  • Gently exfoliates the skin's surface with natural micro-scrubbers
  • Recommended for daily use to prevent pimples and breakouts
  • Suitable for all skin types to help eliminate blackheads and acne
  • Easy to use and provides a refreshing and invigorating cleanse

9. Clear Skin In 6 With Neutrogena Scrub

Say goodbye to blackheads with Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Daily Facial Scrub. This powerful facial scrub is specially formulated to eliminate blackheads and prevent new ones from forming. The combination of blackhead-fighting medicine and gentle exfoliators works effectively to clean deep into pores.

The facial scrub contains salicylic acid acne medicine, which penetrates deep into pores to remove stubborn blackhead-causing dirt and oil. The gentle exfoliators work to sweep away dead skin cells, leaving the skin feeling smooth and refreshed. The scrub also contains skin-smoothing exfoliators and conditioners that help prevent the skin from over-drying.

Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Daily Facial Scrub is a great alternative to scrubs that contain plastic microbeads. It is gentle on the skin and suitable for daily use. This facial scrub is from Neutrogena, the #1 dermatologist recommended acne brand. Get glowing, blackhead-free skin with Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Daily Facial Scrub.

Pros

  • Eliminates blackheads and prevents new ones from forming
  • Contains salicylic acid acne medicine that penetrates deep into pores
  • Gentle exfoliators sweep away dead skin cells
  • Contains skin-smoothing exfoliators and conditioners
  • Suitable for daily use
  • Does not contain plastic microbeads

10. Green Tea Blackhead Clearing Scrub

The St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve clear, radiant skin. This face scrub is made with 100% natural exfoliants, including finely polished walnut shell powder and bamboo powder, along with 1% salicylic acid to buff away dead skin and unclog pores. It provides a moderate exfoliation factor that helps to clear pores without damaging the skin. This face scrub is perfect for those who are looking to tackle blackheads and acne, as the salicylic acid helps to clear the skin of these pesky blemishes. Moreover, the deep cleaning action of this scrub makes it ideal for preventing maskne when used in conjunction with replacing and washing protective face masks frequently. With regular use, this face scrub will leave the skin looking clear, soft, and glowing, thanks to its 100% natural exfoliants that even out the skin tone.

In summary, the St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Face Scrub is a natural and effective solution for anyone looking to achieve clear, radiant skin. It is a great choice for those who struggle with blackheads and acne, and it can also help to prevent maskne when used properly.

Pros

  • Contains 100% natural exfoliants, including finely polished walnut shell powder and bamboo powder
  • Moderate exfoliation factor that helps to clear pores without damaging the skin
  • Contains 1% salicylic acid to help clear skin of blackheads and acne
  • Ideal for preventing maskne when used in conjunction with replacing and washing protective face masks frequently
  • Leaves skin looking clear, soft, and glowing with regular use

Best Face Wash For Acne And Blackheads FAQs

Are there any face washes specifically designed for sensitive or oily skin prone to acne and blackheads?

Yes, there are many face washes available in the market that are specifically designed for sensitive or oily skin prone to acne and blackheads. These face washes have a gentle formula that helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts without causing irritation or dryness. They contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and tea tree oil, which are known for their acne-fighting properties.

For sensitive skin, it is important to look for face washes that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that can cause irritation. Instead, opt for gentle cleansers that contain soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea.

When choosing a face wash for oily skin, it is important to look for a product that helps to regulate sebum production and control shine. Look for face washes that contain ingredients like clay, charcoal, or glycolic acid that help to absorb excess oil and unclog pores.

In conclusion, there are many face washes available that are specifically designed for sensitive or oily skin prone to acne and blackheads. It is important to choose a product that suits your skin type and concerns, and to follow a consistent skincare routine to achieve clear and healthy skin.

Can a face wash alone effectively treat acne and blackheads?

The effectiveness of a face wash in treating acne and blackheads depends on various factors. Firstly, the type of face wash you use matters a lot. If the face wash has salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, it can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria that cause acne. Secondly, the severity of your acne and blackheads also plays a significant role. If you have mild to moderate acne and blackheads, then a face wash alone may be sufficient to treat them. However, if you have severe acne and blackheads, you may need to combine a face wash with other treatments like topical creams or oral medications. Lastly, your skincare routine, diet, and lifestyle habits can also affect the effectiveness of a face wash in treating acne and blackheads. Therefore, it is essential to consult a dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for your skin type and condition.

Can using a face wash for acne and blackheads potentially aggravate existing skin conditions or cause new ones?

Yes, using a face wash for acne and blackheads can potentially aggravate existing skin conditions or cause new ones. This is because some face washes may contain harsh ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide that can dry out and irritate the skin. If you have sensitive skin or existing skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea, using these types of face washes can worsen your condition. Additionally, using a face wash that is not suitable for your skin type can also cause new skin issues such as excessive dryness or oiliness. It's important to choose a face wash that is specifically designed for your skin type and to avoid overusing it. It's also a good idea to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best skincare routine for your individual needs.

Should I use a physical or chemical exfoliant in my face wash for acne and blackheads?

When it comes to exfoliating your skin in order to combat acne and blackheads, both physical and chemical exfoliants can be effective. However, there are some key differences between the two that you should keep in mind.

Physical exfoliants use small particles to physically scrub away dead skin cells and other impurities. This can be helpful for removing surface-level debris and unclogging pores. However, physical exfoliants can also be harsh on the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation.

Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand, use ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to dissolve dead skin cells and other impurities. This can be gentler on the skin than physical exfoliants, but it may take longer to see results.

Ultimately, the choice between a physical or chemical exfoliant will depend on your individual skin type and preferences. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, you may want to start with a gentle chemical exfoliant. If you prefer the feeling of a physical exfoliant, look for one with small, gentle particles and use it sparingly to avoid over-exfoliation.

What ingredients should I look for in a face wash for acne and blackheads?

When it comes to choosing a face wash for acne and blackheads, it's essential to look for specific ingredients that can help treat and prevent these skin concerns. Firstly, salicylic acid is an excellent ingredient to look for in a face wash as it exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores, which can help prevent breakouts and reduce the appearance of blackheads. Another ingredient to consider is benzoyl peroxide, which works by killing bacteria on the skin's surface and reducing inflammation. Tea tree oil is also a natural ingredient that has antibacterial properties and can help reduce acne and blackheads. Additionally, look for face washes that contain niacinamide, which can help regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, which can help exfoliate the skin and prevent clogged pores. When choosing a face wash for acne and blackheads, it's important to select one that is gentle, non-comedogenic, and suited to your skin type.

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