The frustration of dealing with acne can be unforgiving- you barely get through managing one breakout only to have another one creep up on you, and right when you think it’s cleared, there go the blemishes. Ugh, where does it end? Acne is deemed the most common dermatological condition in teenagers and young adults; at least for the lucky ones, the other end of the spectrum endures acne late into adulthood. So while acne relief packages are a reliable plan for the breakouts, long-term measures are still top of the preference list. We sure don’t know about you, but we see a two-minute face wash routine to prevent and rid your skin of acne is a win, so we rounded up six dermatologists’ favorite acne face washes to try out this year.
Top Six Effective Acne Facial Cleansers
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash
Neutrogena’s formula comes in the first place as the most recommended acne cleanser overall. Most dermatologists favor the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash, which is mild and affordable, garnering its popularity with middle schoolers looking to develop a skincare routine. In addition, Neutrogena has its Oil-Free Acne Face Wash fortified with Salicylic acid to treat existing acne and prevent further breakouts. To top it off, the Neutrogena Acne Face Wash oil-free technology is quite the game-changer, seeing that oil is the number one acne trigger.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Deep-Cleansing Foaming-Cream Cleanser
We can’t get over La Roche-Posay Effaclar Deep-Cleansing Foaming Cream Cleanser, infused with salicylic and alpha-hydroxy acids. The Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming-Cream Cleanser makes an acute treatment of cysts and severe acne treatment. Ideally, this La Roche-Posay cleanser is blended with acids to combat acne and common concerns like blackheads, pimples and oiliness, giving you flawless, radiant skin. It is, however, essential to note the presence of glycerin in this product’s ingredients- while this could prevent stripping your skin of essential moisture, it could also translate into an acne breakout. Consider wiping off excess oils from your skin with blotting paper when using this cleanser if you have overly oily skin.
EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
Sensitive skincare-designed formulas will always be a safe bet for all skin types, and that’s what makes the EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser an oily skin fan-favorite. The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser works well for reactive skin barring further acne-related irritation with gentle cleansing properties and anti-inflammatory enzymes. In addition to being paraben-, sulfate- and phthalate-free, the EltaMD Cleanser is non-comedogenic, giving it an edge over most brand cleansers. EltaMD’s Foaming Facial Cleanser is also impressively hydrating and exceptional at balancing the skin’s pH.
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash is another dermatologist favorite; with a benzoyl peroxide concentration of 10%, this cleanser is top-of-the-line effective and is recommended for aggressive and widespread acne. PanOxyl facilitates intensive removal of dirt and build-up, consequently eliminating acne-causing bacteria and regulating sebum production. While most acne cleansers are an acne treatment plan, PanOxyl can be used post-acne as an anti-inflammatory and a comedolytic as well as an acne preventative approach.
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cleanser
CeraVe has earned a solid spot with its acne foaming cleanser. Formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic and Niacinamide acids, the CeraVe Acne Foaming Cleanser is a miracle-worker for acne-prone skin, drawing in moisture and soothing your skin while retaining its natural barrier. Unlike the Panoxyl, CeraVe’s Acne Foaming Cleanser has a 4% benzoyl peroxide concentration making it milder, less drying and non-irritating. While the CeraVe Acne Cleanser is gentle enough to use on the rest of your body, dermatologists recommend limiting your usage to once a day if you have sensitive skin.
Bottom Line
Acne has a way of creeping on us when we least expect it; while some of the causes are foreseeable, others aren’t. Regardless of the cause of your acne breakout, those little bumps can be painful and equally frustrating, not to mention the impact they can have on your self-esteem. Detecting a looming breakout may be challenging. However, the world of dermatology has formulated several treatment packages and options to relieve the condition. You can now take control of the situation by investing in skincare products tailored for acne-prone skin. Make it a priority to learn your skin type, triggers and needs, for health, glowing and radiant skin.