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Best Laundry Detergent For Acne Prone Skin (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a solution to your acne-prone skin that doesn’t require a trip to the dermatologist, you might want to consider switching to a laundry detergent designed specifically for sensitive skin. But with so many options available, how do you know which one to choose?

First and foremost, you should look for detergents that are free of harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances. These ingredients can increase irritation on sensitive skin and even cause breakouts. You should also consider the detergent’s pH level, as an overly alkaline or acidic formula can disrupt the skin’s natural balance and make it more vulnerable to acne.

When trying out a new laundry detergent, it’s important to follow the recommended usage instructions and avoid using too much product. Overloading your washer with detergent can leave residue on your clothes, which can then come into contact with your skin and cause breakouts. And don’t forget to test a small patch of skin before washing your entire wardrobe to ensure that the detergent is compatible with your skin type.

Are you tired of constantly battling acne and struggling to find the right skincare products? Have you considered that your laundry detergent could be exacerbating the problem? Switching to a laundry detergent designed for sensitive, acne-prone skin could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of using a specialized detergent and some of our top recommendations.

10 Best Laundry Detergent For Acne Prone Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for people with sensitive skin seeking a gentle laundry detergent, in a convenient and efficient pod format.
2
Ideal for people with sensitive skin, environmentally conscious consumers, and those looking for plant-based laundry detergent in low-waste packaging.
3
This product is ideal for people with sensitive skin due to its clear formula and 2X concentration.
4
This liquid soap is versatile and can be used for acne-prone skin, dandruff, laundry, pets, dishes, and more.
5
Ideal for people with sensitive skin, looking for a natural and fragrance-free laundry detergent.
6
This laundry detergent is ideal for people with sensitive skin and those who prefer fragrance-free products.
7
This product is ideal for those who want a fragrance-free laundry detergent that is gentle on sensitive skin.
8
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone and sensitive skin with a retinoid treatment containing 0.1% adapalene.
9
This product is ideal for improving skin texture and reducing bumps and roughness, while being fragrance-free and allergy tested.
10
It is an organic bar soap made with tea tree oil that is gentle on acne-prone skin, biodegradable, and vegan.
Ideal for people with sensitive skin seeking a gentle laundry detergent, in a convenient and efficient pod format.
Ideal for people with sensitive skin, environmentally conscious consumers, and those looking for plant-based laundry detergent in low-waste packaging.
This product is ideal for people with sensitive skin due to its clear formula and 2X concentration.
This liquid soap is versatile and can be used for acne-prone skin, dandruff, laundry, pets, dishes, and more.
Ideal for people with sensitive skin, looking for a natural and fragrance-free laundry detergent.
This laundry detergent is ideal for people with sensitive skin and those who prefer fragrance-free products.
This product is ideal for those who want a fragrance-free laundry detergent that is gentle on sensitive skin.
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone and sensitive skin with a retinoid treatment containing 0.1% adapalene.
This product is ideal for improving skin texture and reducing bumps and roughness, while being fragrance-free and allergy tested.
It is an organic bar soap made with tea tree oil that is gentle on acne-prone skin, biodegradable, and vegan.

1. Tide Pods Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent Soap Pods, 81 Count

The Tide Pods Free & Gentle is the perfect laundry solution for those with sensitive skin. It is hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and free of dyes and perfumes, ensuring a gentle and safe cleaning experience. Each pod provides a 3-in-1 function, acting as a detergent, stain remover, and color protector, making it convenient to use. The Tide Pods Free & Gentle offers a deeper clean compared to other leading free detergents. It recommends using one laundry pac for regular loads, two pacs for large loads, and three pacs for extra-large loads. These laundry pacs quickly dissolve in hot and cold water, ensuring a thorough clean.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Free of dyes and perfumes
  • Acts as a detergent, stain remover, and color protector
  • Recommended usage guide for different load sizes
  • Easily dissolves in hot and cold water

2. Plant-Powered Sensitive Laundry Pods – Fresh Air

If you or someone in your household has sensitive skin, allergies, eczema, psoriasis, or even pets, you may want to try this laundry detergent. It is formulated to prevent rashes and skin irritation, making it gentle enough even for delicate intimates and natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, and cashmere. This detergent is optimized for performance in all types of washing machines, including HE, high efficiency, standard, front loaders, and top loaders.

Manufactured in the USA with powerful, sustainable, plant-based ingredients, this detergent is thoughtfully formulated to be free from dyes, enzymes, optical brighteners, parabens, phosphates, and pthlalates. It is also never tested on animals, and dermatologist tested and clinically proven to be gentle on skin. Plus, the recyclable and compostable cardboard packaging helps reduce single-use plastic, making it an eco-friendly choice.

If you're looking for a laundry detergent that is perfect for sensitive skin, natural fabrics, and delicate clothes, this gentle formula is definitely worth considering. It's effective at removing dirt and stains, yet still gentle and safe for your skin and the environment.

Pros

  • Formulated to prevent rashes and skin irritation for sensitive skin, allergies, eczema, psoriasis, and pets
  • Optimized for performance in all types of washing machines
  • Manufactured in the USA with powerful, sustainable, plant-based ingredients
  • Free from dyes, enzymes, optical brighteners, parabens, phosphates, and pthlalates
  • Dermatologist tested and clinically proven to be gentle on skin
  • Recyclable and compostable cardboard packaging helps reduce single-use plastic

3. All Liquid Laundry Detergent, Clear For Sensitive Skin, 2x Concentrated, 110 Loads

All Clear is the perfect solution for anyone with sensitive skin who wants to avoid everyday and seasonal irritants. This top-rated detergent brand is recommended by both dermatologists and pediatricians. It has been clinically proven to avoid 99% of the most common irritants, including dog and cat dander, ragweed pollen, grass/tree pollen, and many others. The concentrated formula of All Clear delivers 2X more cleaning power in every drop compared to the standard All Clear detergent, meaning you don't have to use as much to get the same results. It is safe for use in both standard and HE washing machines. For the best cleaning results, it is recommended to use the hottest water your fabric can handle.

All Clear is not intended to treat sensitivity issues, but it is gentle on the skin. This makes it a great choice for people with sensitive skin who want to avoid harsh chemicals in their laundry detergent. Each bottle of All Clear contains 82.5 ounces of 2X concentrated liquid laundry detergent, which is enough for up to 110 loads of laundry. With All Clear, you will get superior cleaning performance and peace of mind knowing that your skin will not be irritated by harsh chemicals.

Pros

  • Recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians for sensitive skin
  • Avoids 99% of everyday and seasonal irritants
  • Concentrated formula delivers 2X more cleaning power in every drop
  • Safe for use in standard and HE washing machines
  • Gentle on the skin

Cons

  • – Not intended to treat sensitivity issues

4. Organic 18-In-1 Tea Tree Soap Concentrate.

Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps are an eco-friendly and sustainable option for those who are looking for a product that's good for the environment and great for their skin. Made with over 90% organic ingredients and over 70% certified fair trade ingredients, these liquid soaps are a great choice for conscious consumers.

The organic and fair trade palm kernel oil used in these liquid soaps is grown by fairly-paid smallholder farmers in Ecuador, ensuring sustainable harvesting techniques that won't damage local habitats. This not only provides the smooth and creamy lather of the soaps but also benefits people and planet.

These liquid soaps are free from synthetic preservatives, detergents, or foaming agents, and are made with plant-based ingredients you can pronounce. This makes it a safe and natural option for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients in their products.

Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps are 3x more concentrated than most liquid soaps, which means you can dilute it for multiple uses. It can be used for laundry, mopping, hand-washing dishes, all-purpose cleaning, washing pets, and more. More soap per bottle means less waste in packaging!

The packaging of Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps is also eco-friendly as they are packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. By using and increasing demand for recycled plastic bottles, Dr. Bronner's is diverting discarded plastic from landfills, eliminating waste, and having a positive environmental impact.

Pros

  • Over 90% organic ingredients
  • Over 70% certified fair trade ingredients
  • Made with organic and fair trade palm kernel oil
  • Free from synthetic preservatives, detergents, or foaming agents
  • 3x more concentrated than most liquid soaps
  • Can be used for multiple purposes
  • Eco-friendly packaging

5. Seventh Generation Concentrated Laundry Detergent Liquid Free & Clear Fragrance Free 40 Oz

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent is specially designed for people with sensitive skin. The detergent is free of fragrances and dyes, making it gentle on the skin while still being tough on stains. The powerful triple-enzyme formula helps remove even the toughest stains, leaving your clothes clean and fresh.

This laundry detergent is EPA Safer Choice certified, ensuring that it is safe for you and the environment. The concentrated formula is designed to provide 53 medium loads in high-efficiency (HE) or standard machines, making it an excellent value for money. The detergent is also USDA certified 96 percent biobased, made with plant-based ingredients that are gentle on the environment.

Seventh Generation is a brand that cares about the future. They believe in caring today for the next seven generations, which is why their products are designed with safety and sustainability in mind. If you want to take your laundry game to the next level, try Seventh Generation's dryer sheets and stain remover.

Pros

  • Free of fragrances and dyes, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Powerful triple-enzyme formula fights even the toughest stains.
  • EPA Safer Choice certified, ensuring safety for you and the environment.
  • Concentrated formula provides 53 medium loads in HE or standard machines.
  • USDA certified 96 percent biobased, made with plant-based ingredients.
  • Brand that is committed to safety and sustainability.

6. Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear, 107 Loads Liquid Laundry Detergent, 144.5 Fl Oz

ARM & HAMMER Sensitive Free & Clear is a powerful liquid laundry detergent that is designed to provide a deep clean while being gentle on sensitive skin. With 2x powerful stain fighters in every drop, this concentrated formula uses less water than previous formulations, delivering more cleaning power in each load. It is a hypoallergenic washing detergent that is dermatologist tested and clinically proven to be gentle on skin.

This fragrance-free and dye-free laundry detergent is designed for people with sensitive skin. It is free of preservatives and dyes, making it an ideal choice for those with allergies or skin sensitivities. It is a concentrated formula that delivers powerful cleaning action in every wash, yet is gentle on skin.

ARM & HAMMER Sensitive Free & Clear has been clinically tested to ensure that it is safe for people with sensitive skin. It has been reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals and evaluated by dermatologists, passing four different clinical tests. This hypoallergenic washing detergent is tough on stains, dirt, and odors, providing a fresh clean you can count on.

This liquid laundry detergent is an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin who need a hypoallergenic washing detergent. It is tough on stains and gentle on skin, making it a perfect choice for families with young children or people with allergies or skin sensitivities.

Pros

  • Concentrated formula delivers more cleaning power in every load
  • Hypoallergenic washing detergent is gentle on sensitive skin
  • Fragrance-free and dye-free formula is ideal for people with allergies or skin sensitivities
  • Clinically tested and verified by healthcare professionals and dermatologists
  • Tough on stains, dirt, and odors, providing a fresh clean you can count on

Cons

  • – May not be as effective on tough stains as some other laundry detergents

7. Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Twins

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Fragrance-Free is a powerful laundry detergent that is designed to fight tough stains with its triple-enzyme formula. This hypoallergenic laundry detergent is made for sensitive skin and is EPA Safer Choice Certified to ensure safety. The concentrated detergent is capable of washing 53 medium loads in high-efficiency (HE detergent) or standard machines. This laundry detergent is USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased, made with plant-based ingredients. Caring for the environment and future generations, Seventh Generation's liquid detergent is perfect for those who want to make a positive impact on the world. To complete your laundry routine, try our dryer sheets and stain remover.

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Fragrance-Free is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Its hypoallergenic formula ensures that it won't cause any irritation or allergic reactions. The powerful triple-enzyme formula fights tough stains, leaving your clothes clean and fresh. This concentrated detergent is designed to wash 53 medium loads in high-efficiency (HE detergent) or standard machines, making it an affordable and effective option. Made with plant-based ingredients, this laundry detergent is USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased. Seventh Generation's commitment to caring for the environment and future generations is evident with this product. Additionally, it is EPA Safer Choice Certified, ensuring that it is safe for use in the home.

Seventh Generation Free & Clear Concentrated Laundry Detergent Fragrance-Free is a laundry detergent that is safe for sensitive skin and the environment. Its triple-enzyme formula fights tough stains, leaving clothes clean and fresh. This concentrated detergent is capable of washing 53 medium loads in high-efficiency (HE detergent) or standard machines. It is made with plant-based ingredients, and is USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased. Seventh Generation's commitment to sustainability and safety is evident with this product, as it is EPA Safer Choice Certified. To complete your laundry routine, Seventh Generation also offers dryer sheets and stain remover.

Pros

  • Powerful triple-enzyme formula fights tough stains
  • Hypoallergenic laundry detergent made for sensitive skin
  • EPA Safer Choice Certified
  • Concentrated detergent washes 53 medium loads
  • USDA Certified as being 96 percent Biobased
  • Made with plant-based ingredients
  • Caring for the environment and future generations
  • Dryer sheets and stain remover also available

8. Clear Skin 30 Day Retinoid Gel

Are you tired of dealing with acne breakouts? Look no further than Differin gel. This product targets the primary causes of acne, clogged pores and inflammation, by normalizing skin cell turnover. The result is clearer skin with restored texture and tone. In fact, in a clinical study, Differin gel provided up to an 87 percent reduction in acne breakouts after just 12 weeks of use. And with continued use, the results will only improve.

What sets Differin apart from other acne treatments is its use of adapalene, which was created for superior tolerability compared to other prescription retinoid products. Its water-based formula is oil-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, making it gentle on even the most sensitive skin. Plus, it can be used as part of your morning or evening regimen.

Not only does Differin help clear existing acne breakouts, but it also prevents new acne from forming. And by doing so, it helps reduce the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation. And if you're always on the go, you'll love the travel size toiletries. At under 3.4 fl oz, you can easily take it with you on your next vacation or trip.

Pros

  • Targets primary causes of acne
  • Normalizes skin cell turnover
  • Up to 87% reduction in acne breakouts after 12 weeks
  • Prevents new acne from forming
  • Helps reduce the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation
  • Suitable for use in morning or evening regimen
  • Water-based formula is oil-free, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Adapalene created for superior tolerability compared to other prescription retinoid products
  • Travel size toiletries for easy portability

9. Bumpy Skin Fix: Cerave Sa Lotion

CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion with Salicylic Acid is a body moisturizer that gently exfoliates dry, scaly, rough, and bumpy skin on legs and upper arms. It has a lightweight and non-greasy feel that leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth. This lotion effectively exfoliates and moisturizes the skin to reveal a healthier and smoother complexion.

This lotion is formulated with Salicylic Acid and Lactic Acid that help to exfoliate the skin, Hyaluronic Acid that helps to retain skin's moisture, and Niacinamide that helps to calm the skin. Salicylic Acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that acts as an exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and smooth the skin.

Suitable for body use, CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion is fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic. It can be paired with CeraVe Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser for Rough and Bumpy Skin to cleanse and exfoliate the skin in a gentle way.

CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that help to restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Ceramides are naturally found in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. With the help of three essential ceramides, this lotion helps to restore the skin's natural barrier and maintain its natural moisture.

CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more. CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion with Salicylic Acid is a perfect skincare solution for those who want to exfoliate and moisturize their skin in a gentle way.

Pros

  • Exfoliates and moisturizes the skin effectively
  • Formulated with Salicylic Acid and Lactic Acid
  • Contains Hyaluronic Acid to retain skin's moisture
  • Includes Niacinamide that helps to calm the skin
  • Suitable for body use
  • Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic
  • Formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)
  • Developed with dermatologists

10. Organic Tea Tree Bar Soap – Dr. Bronner's

Dr. Bronner's bar soaps are the perfect choice for anyone looking for a moisturizing lather that won't dry out their skin, hair, or body. These bar soaps are made with only the purest certified organic oils, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth. The organic oils used in these bar soaps are gentle and effective, making them suitable for use on your face, body, or hair.

Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Bar Soap is made with plant-based ingredients that you can pronounce, free from synthetic preservatives, detergents, or foaming agents. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who are environmentally conscious and concerned about the impact of their personal care products on the planet. The bar soap is gentle on the skin and produces a smooth and creamy lather for a luxurious experience.

Dr. Bronner's bar soaps are made with regenerative organic certified palm oil. The palm oil is grown by fairly-paid farmers who ensure sustainable harvesting through intercropping, biodiversity, and reforestation. This not only provides the smooth and creamy lather of the soap, but it also benefits farmers and the planet. Additionally, Dr. Bronner's bar soaps are packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled wrappers, diverting discarded paper waste from landfills and preventing landfill buildup.

Pros

  • Made with pure certified organic oils
  • Suitable for use on face, body, and hair
  • Free from synthetic preservatives, detergents, or foaming agents
  • Gentle and effective
  • Regenerative organic certified palm oil
  • Packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled wrappers

Best Laundry Detergent For Acne Prone Skin FAQs

Are there any natural or organic laundry detergents that are safe for acne prone skin?

Yes, there are natural and organic laundry detergents available in the market that are safe for acne-prone skin. These detergents are made with natural ingredients such as plant-based surfactants, essential oils, and enzymes, which are gentle on the skin and do not contain harsh chemicals that can irritate or worsen acne.

Some popular brands that offer natural and organic laundry detergents for acne-prone skin include Seventh Generation, ECOS, and Puracy. These brands use ingredients like lavender, tea tree oil, and citrus extracts that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm irritated skin.

It is important to note that even natural and organic laundry detergents may not work for everyone, as individual skin types and sensitivities can vary. Therefore, it is always a good idea to patch test any new product before using it on your entire wardrobe. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid using fabric softeners and dryer sheets, which can leave a residue on clothing that may further irritate acne-prone skin.

Are there any specific ingredients to avoid in laundry detergents for acne prone skin?

Yes, there are certain ingredients that should be avoided in laundry detergents for people with acne-prone skin. One of the main culprits is fragrance, which can irritate the skin and aggravate acne. Other ingredients to avoid include sulfates, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness and irritation, and preservatives like parabens, which can also irritate the skin. Additionally, it may be beneficial to choose a laundry detergent that is labeled as "hypoallergenic" or "gentle" to reduce the likelihood of irritation. It's also a good idea to avoid using fabric softeners and dryer sheets, as these can leave a residue on clothing that can irritate the skin. Overall, choosing a gentle, fragrance-free laundry detergent and avoiding other potential irritants can help prevent acne breakouts and keep skin looking and feeling healthy.

Can laundry detergents cause acne breakouts?

Laundry detergents contain a variety of chemicals that can potentially irritate the skin and lead to breakouts. Some common ingredients in detergents, such as fragrances, dyes, and preservatives, can be particularly irritating to those with sensitive skin. In addition, detergents can leave residue on clothing, which can come into contact with the skin and cause irritation.

However, it's important to note that not everyone will experience breakouts from laundry detergents. Some people may be more sensitive to certain ingredients than others. If you're experiencing acne breakouts and suspect that your laundry detergent may be the culprit, try switching to a detergent that is free of fragrances and dyes. It's also a good idea to rinse your clothes well to ensure that all detergent residue is removed. If your acne persists, it may be a good idea to consult with a dermatologist to rule out other potential causes.

How often should I wash my sheets and clothes to prevent acne breakouts?

To prevent acne breakouts, it is important to maintain good hygiene practices, including washing your sheets and clothes regularly. The frequency of washing your sheets and clothes will depend on a few factors such as how often you sweat, the climate you live in, and your skin type.

If you are someone who sweats a lot or live in a hot and humid climate, you may need to wash your sheets and clothes more frequently. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, you may be able to get away with washing your sheets and clothes less often.

As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to wash your sheets every one to two weeks, and your clothes after each wear. This will help to remove any sweat, dirt, and bacteria that can contribute to acne breakouts. Additionally, make sure to use gentle, fragrance-free detergents and avoid using fabric softeners which can irritate the skin.

In summary, washing your sheets and clothes regularly is an important step in preventing acne breakouts. By maintaining good hygiene practices and using gentle detergents, you can help keep your skin clean and healthy.

What are the best laundry detergents for acne prone skin?

When it comes to choosing the best laundry detergent for acne prone skin, it is important to look for a product that is gentle on the skin and does not contain harsh chemicals or fragrances that can irritate the skin. Some of the top recommended laundry detergents for acne prone skin include:

1. All Free Clear: This detergent is free from fragrance and dyes, making it a great option for individuals with sensitive skin.

2. Tide Free and Gentle: This detergent is also free from dyes and perfumes, and has been dermatologist recommended for its gentle formula.

3. Seventh Generation Natural Laundry Detergent: This detergent is made from plant-based ingredients and is free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and optical brighteners.

4. Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin: This detergent is designed specifically for individuals with sensitive skin and is free from dyes and fragrances.

Overall, it is important to choose a laundry detergent that is gentle on the skin and does not contain any harsh chemicals that can exacerbate acne or irritate sensitive skin.

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