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Best Facial Cleanser For Cystic Acne (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a facial cleanser to combat cystic acne, there are several important factors to consider before making a purchase. First, you want to make sure the cleanser is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil, which are known for their acne-fighting properties. You also want to make sure the cleanser is gentle enough to use on a daily basis without irritating your skin.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a facial cleanser for cystic acne is your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to opt for a cleanser that is hydrating and won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. If you have oily skin, you may want a cleanser that is more mattifying and helps to control excess oil production.

Are you tired of trying countless products that promise to clear up your cystic acne but just leave you disappointed? What if we told you that the right facial cleanser could make all the difference? Imagine waking up to clear, glowing skin every morning – it’s possible with the right acne-fighting ingredients and a gentle yet effective facial cleanser. Read on to discover our top picks for facial cleansers that can help banish cystic acne for good.

10 Best Facial Cleanser For Cystic Acne

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for exfoliating and cleansing the face with organic, anti-aging ingredients and reducing acne and wrinkles.
2
Ideal for preventing severe, hormonal, and cystic acne breakouts while deep cleansing oily and sensitive skin.
3
This product is ideal for clearing and preventing acne breakouts on both the face and body for teens and adults.
4
The product is ideal for those looking for an effective acne treatment face wash with key ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and hyaluronic acid.
5
This product is ideal for controlling oily skin and clearing acne breakouts through its foaming medicated gel formula with salicylic acid.
6
The product is ideal for reducing acne, detoxifying pores, and cleansing oily and acne-prone skin.
7
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
8
Ideal for treating cystic acne, hormonal acne, pimples, and blemishes on the face for adults of any gender.
9
The product is ideal for treating facial acne, reducing redness, and unclogging pores with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
10
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone, sensitive skin with a 3-step system including cleanser, toner, and spot treatment.
The product is ideal for exfoliating and cleansing the face with organic, anti-aging ingredients and reducing acne and wrinkles.
Ideal for preventing severe, hormonal, and cystic acne breakouts while deep cleansing oily and sensitive skin.
This product is ideal for clearing and preventing acne breakouts on both the face and body for teens and adults.
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 controlling oily skin and clearing acne breakouts through its foaming medicated gel formula with salicylic acid.
The product is ideal for reducing acne, detoxifying pores, and cleansing oily and acne-prone skin.
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Ideal for treating cystic acne, hormonal acne, pimples, and blemishes on the face for adults of any gender.
The product is ideal for treating facial acne, reducing redness, and unclogging pores with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone, sensitive skin with a 3-step system including cleanser, toner, and spot treatment.

1. Travel-Sized Anti-Aging Glycolic Acid Facewash Trio

Achieve smooth and clean skin with this exfoliating cleanser that is perfect for those with sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. Formulated with 10% glycolic and salicylic acid, this gentle yet effective cleanser reduces acne and dark spots while removing makeup and oil without drying out your skin. It works as both a cleanser and toner, resurfacing and nourishing aging skin for a more youthful appearance.

Our face cleanser contains glycolic acid, which removes dead skin and minimizes pores, leaving your skin feeling smooth and clean. The face scrub lathers well, smells great, and leaves no sticky residue, and a little goes a long way. It keeps your skin clear, revealing a glowing complexion that you will love.

Formulated with both glycolic and salicylic acid, this exfoliating face wash is the perfect acne treatment for those who suffer from hormonal or cystic acne. It is best for adults and teenagers who want soft and smooth skin without burning or drying out their skin. Use it 2-5 times a week with your skincare routine, and notice results in only 1 week.

Our BHA, AHA and natural ingredients are sulfate-free, cruelty-free and made in the USA. It penetrates deep to exfoliate and brighten sensitive skin. The nourishing formula contains bamboo, shea butter, and tea tree extract that deeply exfoliates to help fade dark spots, scarring, and any redness or discoloration.

If you're looking for an effective exfoliating cleanser that leaves your skin feeling smooth and clean, this is the perfect product for you. Try it today and experience the benefits of our glycolic wash and full collection of facial skin care products.

Pros

  • Reduces acne and dark spots
  • Gentle yet effective glycolic peel
  • Works as a cleanser and toner
  • Resurfaces and nourishes aging skin
  • Removes dead skin and minimizes pores
  • Leaves skin feeling smooth and clean
  • Perfect acne treatment for hormonal or cystic acne
  • Sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA
  • Contains nourishing ingredients

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with extremely dry skin

2. Clear Skin Charcoal Face Wash

Say goodbye to acne with Ayadara Acne Wash. This exfoliating face wash is designed to clear blemishes without stripping off the skin's natural oils. It unclogs pores, removes dirt, and eliminates bacteria that cause acne. The gentle yet powerful formula of this facial wash is suitable for all skin types, making it a great daily face wash for adults and teens with mild, moderate, severe, hormonal, or cystic acne.

The Charcoal cleanser is infused with a detoxifying solution that uses non-abrasive Activated Charcoal beads and Sulfur powder to draw out toxins from the skin without causing dryness. It provides a clarifying detox to the skin's outer layers, leaving it refreshed and radiant. This sulfur face wash also helps control excess facial oil and removes dead skin cells that cause acne formation.

Ayadara Acne Wash offers more than 200 uses that prevent recurring pimple breakouts. Its unique, powerful formula is made with skin-loving ingredients that detoxify and balance the skin during the day and night. For extra stubborn acne, follow with Ayadara Warrior One Cystic, Hormonal, & Severe Acne Spot Treatment.

Pros

  • Clears blemishes without stripping off the skin's natural oils
  • Unclogs pores, removes dirt, and eliminates bacteria that cause acne
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Provides a clarifying detox to the skin's outer layers
  • Helps control excess facial oil and removes dead skin cells that cause acne formation
  • Offers more than 200 uses that prevent recurring pimple breakouts
  • Made with skin-loving ingredients that detoxify and balance the skin during the day and night

3. Clearskin 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Wash

Say goodbye to acne blemishes, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, zits, and bumps with the Advanced Non-foaming Formula Acne Treatment by Oxyderm. This product is specially formulated to penetrate deep within pores and fight acne from within, preventing future breakouts.

This clinically proven formula is non-irritating and won't over-dry the skin or cause redness. It removes dirt and cellular debris by reducing excess oil, making it perfect for acne-prone and oily skin. The micronized BPO 10% contains smaller particles that allow the formula to absorb into your skin more effectively for immediate results. It reduces the occurrence of clogged pores and prevents breakouts before they start.

This acne treatment is highly effective and safe for all skin types, including men, women, teens, and even sensitive skin. It is paraben and fragrance-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. It gets to the root of the problem, stopping the bacteria in its tracks instantly, leaving your skin glowing and oil-free.

Join thousands of satisfied customers who have discovered the exceptional value and quality of Oxyderm skincare products. Order now and experience the benefits of healthy and more vibrant skin. We stand behind our products 100%, with a guarantee of significantly transforming your skin. Try it now and see the difference in just 30 days!

Pros

  • Penetrates deep within pores to fight acne blemishes, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, zits, and bumps
  • Clinically proven formula that is non-irritating and won't over-dry the skin or cause redness
  • Removes dirt and cellular debris by reducing excess oil
  • Micronized BPO 10% contains smaller particles that allow the formula to absorb into your skin more effectively for immediate results
  • Highly effective and safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Paraben and fragrance-free
  • Gets to the root of the problem, stopping the bacteria in its tracks instantly
  • Leaves your skin glowing and oil-free
  • 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

4. 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

5. Effaclar Acne Control Gel Cleanser By La Roche-Posay.

The Salicylic Acid Face Wash is a powerful formula that helps remove impurities from the skin without causing any irritation. It is enriched with 2% salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid that work together to clear acne breakouts, blemishes, and pimples. Unlike other face washes, it does not contain harsh scrub particles that can harm the skin.

This clinically tested face wash can reduce excess surface oil by up to 47 percent, leaving the skin less oily throughout the day. The 2% salicylic acid is known for its effective exfoliating properties that help clear and refine the appearance of pores. On the other hand, lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) has exfoliating and skin-renewing properties that promote healthy and glowing skin.

This face wash is specifically formulated with 2% salicylic acid acne medication to help clear breakouts. It deeply cleanses the skin and diminishes breakouts, leaving the skin looking even and smooth. Moreover, it is tested on sensitive skin, allergy-tested, dermatologist-tested, and non-comedogenic.

If you want to keep your skin healthy and blemish-free, this Salicylic Acid Face Wash is a must-have in your skincare routine. It effectively removes impurities and excess oil from the skin, leaving it looking clean and clear.

Pros

  • Enriched with 2% salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid
  • Clinically tested to reduce excess surface oil by up to 47 percent
  • Tested on sensitive skin
  • Allergy tested
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Effectively removes impurities and excess oil from the skin

6. Acne Detox Charcoal Face Wash.

Get ready to say goodbye to acne with this charcoal face cleanser specially formulated for oily skin. This cleanser effectively cleanses your pores and helps control factors that contribute to whiteheads and blackheads formation. It is enriched with natural powder acne cleansers that remove excess oil and impurities without stripping off your skin's moisture. This clarifying and hydrating face mask is specifically designed to provide extra care to control the oil on your skin, leaving it smooth, refreshed, and revitalized.

Renew your complexion with our Acne Charcoal Mask, which cleanses, tightens, and nourishes your skin. It is enriched with egg white powder that naturally shrinks your pores, giving your face a radiant glow. Additionally, vitamin E and ferulic acid help alleviate dark spots, leaving your skin firm and radiant.

This all-natural, charcoal acne mask purifies your skin and fights acne. The mask works with the power of activated charcoal to remove dirt and impurities, leaving your complexion healthier than ever. It is gentle on the skin and does not cause any damage to your skin. This mask is perfect for those looking for an all-natural mask that will keep their skin healthy and acne-free.

To use, apply the mask over your entire face and neck, gently massaging in circular motions. Allow it to dry and leave it on for up to 40 minutes, then rinse clean with warm water. The mask will be thin and almost invisible once applied.

Pros

  • Effectively cleanses pores and controls factors that contribute to whiteheads and blackheads formation
  • Enriched with natural powder acne cleansers that remove excess oil and impurities without stripping off your skin's moisture
  • Renews complexion by cleansing, tightening, and nourishing the skin
  • Contains egg white powder, vitamin E, and ferulic acid that help alleviate dark spots, leaving your skin firm and radiant
  • All-natural and gentle on the skin, perfect for those looking for an all-natural mask that will keep their skin healthy and acne-free

7. Clear Skin Solution: Paula's Choice Bha Exfoliant

The Gentle Non-Abrasive Leave-On Exfoliator is an effective skincare solution that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone. This leave-on exfoliator contains 2% BHA (Beta hydroxy acid) that combats redness, wrinkles, aging, enlarged pores, and blackheads. The packaging may vary but the formula remains the same.

The Beta hydroxy acid (BHA), also known as salicylic acid, mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores. It hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion. This unique, non-abrasive exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Unlike an abrasive face scrub that can cause micro-tears, Paula's Choice facial exfoliants are gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck. A BHA leave-on exfoliator delivers hydration and can exfoliate directly inside the pore, improving how the pore works. Use Paula's Choice for highly effective skin care solutions for the face and body. The full line of facial cleansers, exfoliators, toners, moisturizers, serums, eye creams, facial masks, sunscreens, body washes, and more are made to care for every kind of skin.

Pros

  • Contains 2% BHA that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores
  • Exfoliates dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone
  • Gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion
  • Gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck

8. Clearskin: Overnight Spot Treatment For Hormonal Acne

Combat stubborn cystic acne with this nature-powered treatment that uses Bentonite Clay, Sulfur, and Tea Tree Oil to effectively pull out and dry out acne. It is suitable for both women and men and can also be used as an acne treatment for buttocks. With over 120 uses per 0.5oz container, it is a long-lasting solution for cystic acne treatment for the face and body, and it can also get rid of whiteheads and blackheads. This cystic acne overnight treatment provides fast and noticeable results in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens, making it a perfect spot treatment for cystic pimples. For best results, try it with our 5-step acne treatment kit that includes an acne face wash, acne face cream, salicylic acid acne toner, acne face scrub, and acne patches. We also recommend trying our salicylic acid spot treatment and acne scar treatment consistently.

Pros

  • Effectively combats cystic acne with natural ingredients
  • Long-lasting solution with over 120 uses per 0.5oz container
  • Fast and noticeable results in just 20 minutes
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens
  • Can also be used as an acne treatment for buttocks

9. Clear Acne Relief Kit With 2% Salicylic Acid.

Combat stubborn acne, breakouts, blemishes, and blackheads with the Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Kit. This three-step skin care system is designed to quickly address and control acne without causing dryness or redness. The kit includes CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser, CLEAR Regular Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), and CLEAR Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment with 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide.

The gentle yet effective formulas of the Paula's Choice CLEAR collection provide skin-perfecting, pore-clearing, and hydrating benefits. They are suitable for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin types, including skin prone to cystic acne. The system works together to unclog and minimize the look of pores while improving signs of sensitivity. For best results, use this as your morning and evening daily skincare routine and always finish with SPF 30+ in the morning.

In addition to the three-step system, the Paula's Choice CLEAR collection also includes Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+ for daytime, the CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer for weightless hydration, and the CLEAR Purifying Clay Mask to control excess shine and clogged pores.

Paula's Choice Skincare is committed to creating products that work. The formulas are backed by science and are free from fragrance, parabens, and other unnecessary ingredients. Whether you're concerned about wrinkles or breakouts, the Paula's Choice CLEAR Regular Strength Acne Kit has got you covered.

Pros

  • Quickly combats and controls stubborn acne, breakouts, blemishes, and blackheads
  • Gentle yet effective formulas suitable for normal, dry, oily, and combination skin types
  • Unclogs and minimizes the look of pores while improving signs of sensitivity
  • Includes three-step system, Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+, CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer, and CLEAR Purifying Clay Mask
  • Backed by science and free from fragrance, parabens, and other unnecessary ingredients

10. Effaclar Acne Treatment System: 3 Steps, 2 Months.

The Acne Kit with Effaclar Duo, recommended by dermatologists, is the perfect solution for those struggling with acne. This kit is formulated with dermatological acne treatment ingredients, such as Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO), to reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. It is an oil-free formula that targets the major causes of acne as observed by dermatologists.

The Effaclar Duo in this kit is the only one of its kind and is highly recommended by dermatologists. It reduces up to 60% of acne in just 10 days with visible results starting day 1. This amazing kit has won Allure’s Best of Beauty Award for Best Acne Treatment 3 times.

The Acne Kit contains an acne wash/cleanser, an acne facial toner, and an acne spot treatment cream. Use these products together as part of your daily skincare routine and get ready to say goodbye to acne for good.

Pros

  • Reduces up to 60% of acne in just 10 days
  • Visible results starting day 1
  • Formulated with dermatological acne treatment ingredients
  • Oil-free formula
  • Targets major causes of acne as observed by dermatologists
  • Effaclar Duo recommended by dermatologists
  • 3-time winner of Allure’s Best of Beauty Award for Best Acne Treatment

Best Facial Cleanser For Cystic Acne FAQs

Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using a facial cleanser for cystic acne?

Yes, there are potential side effects and risks associated with using a facial cleanser for cystic acne. Some of the most common side effects include skin irritation, dryness, redness, and flaking. This can be especially problematic for people with sensitive skin, as harsh ingredients in some facial cleansers can exacerbate these symptoms. Additionally, overuse of facial cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to even greater dryness and irritation.

There are also risks associated with using certain types of facial cleansers for cystic acne. For example, some cleansers contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can be effective at treating acne but can also cause skin irritation and even allergic reactions in some individuals. It is important to choose a gentle, non-comedogenic facial cleanser that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin to minimize the risk of side effects and maximize the effectiveness of treatment.

Overall, it is important to speak with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before starting any new skincare regimen, particularly if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions. They can help you choose the best facial cleanser for your skin type and provide guidance on how to use it safely and effectively.

Are there any specific ingredients to look for in a facial cleanser for cystic acne?

Yes, there are certain ingredients that are beneficial for treating cystic acne when included in a facial cleanser. Salicylic acid is one of the key ingredients to look for in a facial cleanser for cystic acne as it helps to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts. Another ingredient to look for is benzoyl peroxide, which is effective in killing the bacteria that causes acne. Tea tree oil is also a natural ingredient that can be included in facial cleansers for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, sulfur is a useful ingredient for reducing oil production and drying out acne. It is important to note that everyone's skin reacts differently to ingredients, so it is important to patch test any new facial cleanser before using it regularly. Consulting with a dermatologist can also be helpful in finding the best facial cleanser for treating cystic acne.

Can a facial cleanser alone effectively treat cystic acne, or is additional treatment necessary?

Facial cleansers are essential in any skincare routine as they help to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin's surface. However, when it comes to treating cystic acne, a facial cleanser alone may not be enough. Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that occurs when there is an infection deep within the skin. It causes painful, inflamed, and pus-filled cysts that can be difficult to manage.

To effectively treat cystic acne, it is necessary to use additional treatments like topical retinoids, antibiotics, or isotretinoin (in severe cases). These treatments work by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and preventing the formation of new cysts. A dermatologist can recommend the best treatment plan based on the severity of the acne.

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes like avoiding dairy, processed foods, and sugar can also help to reduce cystic acne. It's important to note that while a facial cleanser can be helpful in managing cystic acne, it is not a standalone treatment option. It should be part of a comprehensive skincare routine that includes other treatments and lifestyle changes.

How do facial cleansers for cystic acne differ from those for other types of acne?

Facial cleansers for cystic acne differ from those for other types of acne in a few key ways. Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that occurs when pores become clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria, leading to large, painful cysts that can be difficult to treat. Because of the severity of cystic acne, facial cleansers designed for this condition often contain stronger and more effective ingredients than those for other types of acne.

For example, facial cleansers for cystic acne may contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are powerful acne-fighting ingredients that can help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. They may also contain other ingredients like sulfur or tea tree oil, which can help to dry out and heal acne lesions.

In addition, facial cleansers for cystic acne may be more drying than those for other types of acne, as excess oil production is often a contributing factor to cystic acne. Therefore, it's important to choose a facial cleanser that is specifically formulated for your skin type, and to use it as directed to avoid over-drying or irritating your skin.

Overall, if you're struggling with cystic acne, it's important to speak with a dermatologist to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include a combination of topical and oral medications, as well as lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and regular exercise.

What are the best facial cleansers for cystic acne?

Cystic acne can be a frustrating and painful skin condition to deal with. Finding the right facial cleanser is crucial to effectively manage and prevent further breakouts. The best facial cleansers for cystic acne are those that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid helps to unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells, while benzoyl peroxide is effective in killing the bacteria that cause acne.

Some of the top-rated facial cleansers for cystic acne include Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, and Cetaphil Pro DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Wash. It is important to choose a cleanser that is gentle on the skin and does not strip away natural oils. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid harsh scrubs or physical exfoliants that can irritate the skin and exacerbate cystic acne.

In addition to using a suitable facial cleanser, it is essential to maintain a consistent skincare routine and avoid picking or squeezing cystic acne. Consulting with a dermatologist can also provide personalized recommendations for managing cystic acne.

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