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Best Facial Cleanser For Oily Acne Prone Skin (2024 Update)

Finding the right facial cleanser is crucial for those with oily, acne-prone skin. With so many products on the market making all kinds of claims, it can be overwhelming trying to select one that will effectively cleanse skin without stripping it or causing more breakouts. Before purchasing a facial cleanser, there are a few key factors to consider.

First, examine the ingredients. It’s best to avoid cleansers with harsh sulfates and alcohol, which can irritate skin and worsen acne. Instead, look for gentle cleansing agents like cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol. Also ensure the cleanser contains acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates pores to cut through oil and treat breakouts.

Next, consider your skin type. Is your skin extremely oily and acne-prone? Or just slightly shiny in the t-zone? Cleansers made specifically for oily, blemish-prone skin will contain ingredients targeted to control shine and prevent new zits from forming. If your skin is more combination oily, a gentle cleanser for all skin types may suffice.

How does your skin feel after cleansing? The best cleansers will dissolve oil, remove impurities and make skin feel fresh—not tight, dry or stripped. A cleanser that leaves your face feeling balanced and soft is ideal. Also ensure it rinses clean without residue.

Do you need a deep cleanse or something simple? Look for cleansers that match your preferences in terms of lather, scrubbing beads, rinse-off versus leave-on, etc. With the right facial cleanser, you can reveal clear, healthy looking skin.

10 Best Facial Cleanser For Oily Acne Prone Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for individuals with oily and blemish-prone skin looking for a deep cleansing daily facial wash.
2
Ideal for improving skin's clarity and reducing acne breakouts.
3
The product is ideal for those with blemish-prone skin, seeking a soothing and effective facial cleanser with time release technology.
4
Ideal for people with oily, dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin as a low pH foaming cleanser that provides moisture.
5
Ideal for daily exfoliation and treatment of acne-prone skin to prevent breakouts and remove excess oil.
6
Ideal for individuals with oily and acne prone skin as a gentle face cleanser with organic aloe vera, witch hazel and mint.
7
Ideal for those with combination and oily skin who want to deeply cleanse pores and fight acne with salicylic acid and aloe vera.
8
This product is ideal for daily cleansing, detoxifying, and hydrating the skin while reducing acne and purifying pores.
9
It is ideal for people with oily and acne-prone skin as it removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup while moisturizing.
10
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin who want to minimize the look of pores.
This product is ideal for individuals with oily and blemish-prone skin looking for a deep cleansing daily facial wash.
Ideal for improving skin's clarity and reducing acne breakouts.
The product is ideal for those with blemish-prone skin, seeking a soothing and effective facial cleanser with time release technology.
Ideal for people with oily, dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin as a low pH foaming cleanser that provides moisture.
Ideal for daily exfoliation and treatment of acne-prone skin to prevent breakouts and remove excess oil.
Ideal for individuals with oily and acne prone skin as a gentle face cleanser with organic aloe vera, witch hazel and mint.
Ideal for those with combination and oily skin who want to deeply cleanse pores and fight acne with salicylic acid and aloe vera.
This product is ideal for daily cleansing, detoxifying, and hydrating the skin while reducing acne and purifying pores.
It is ideal for people with oily and acne-prone skin as it removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup while moisturizing.
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin who want to minimize the look of pores.

1. Pacifica Kale Detox Face Wash: Blemish Buster

The foaming face cleanser offered by this product is an excellent choice for those looking to cleanse and tone their skin while removing makeup. This cleanser does an excellent job of detoxifying the skin, leaving it feeling fresh and invigorated. The use of phytonutrients in this cleanser ensures that your skin is protected from toxins and impurities.

This product is specifically designed for individuals who have oily and blemish-prone skin types. The kale and green juice scent gives this face wash a refreshing and natural aroma. The ingredients used in this product are of premium quality, including kale, coconut water, clay, super greens, and aloe vera.

The formula of this cleanser is free from harsh chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, SLS, mineral oil, and petrolatum. This product is sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and 100% vegan. The absence of these chemicals makes this product gentle on the skin, ensuring that it does not cause any irritation or redness.

2. Boscia Clear Complexion

Achieve a clear and flawless complexion with the ultra-refreshing cleansing gel, designed to gently and effectively clean blemish-prone skin. The cleansing gel is formulated with Willow Bark Extract, a natural Salicylic Acid, which exfoliates the skin to unclog pores, purify the skin, and minimize blemishes without any irritation.

This cleansing gel is perfect for those with blemish-prone skin, as it is specially formulated to target and eliminate blemishes. The Willow Bark Extract, which is a natural Salicylic Acid, helps to gently exfoliate the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing the appearance of blemishes.

The ultra-refreshing formula of this cleansing gel ensures that the skin is left feeling clean and refreshed. The gel is gentle on the skin, yet it effectively removes impurities, dirt, and excess oil, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed.

This cleansing gel is ideal for anyone who wants to maintain a clear-looking complexion. It is suitable for daily use and is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. The formula is free of harsh chemicals, so you can use it with confidence, knowing that it won't cause any irritation or harm to your skin.

3. Murad Salicylic Cleanser – Clear & Smooth Skin

The Acne Control Clarifying Cream Cleanser from the Acne Control range is a highly effective solution for breakouts that is gentle on the skin. It is designed to remove excess oil, purify pores, and clear blemishes without causing any dryness. This facial cleanser is suitable for daily use as part of your skincare routine for all skin types, including Normal, Oily, Combination, and Sensitive skin.

The facial cleanser starts working immediately and is formulated with Encapsulated Salicylic Acid. This essential ingredient continues to actively treat and prevent breakouts for up to 8 hours after rinsing. The Acne Control Clarifying Cream Cleanser also includes other essential ingredients that work together to provide a complete skincare solution. Salicylic Acid clears spots and blemishes, Hyaluronic Acid keeps skin hydrated, and Sesame Seed and Fruit Extracts soothe the skin.

The Acne Control Clarifying Cream Cleanser is formulated without Parabens, Sulfates or Phthalates, making it safe for use on the skin. To use the product, simply massage a small amount of the facial skin cleanser over dampened face and neck. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. For best results, follow with a Murad sunscreen in the morning and a moisturizer in the evening.

4. Nightingale Gentle Foam Cleanser For Healthy Skin.

The facial cleanser has undergone an upgrade in packaging, but it still retains its high-quality cleansing properties. Clinically proven to remove up to 96.9% of micro-dirt, including PM2.5 particles that are only 1/30th the thickness of a hair, the botanical Papain Enzyme Bubble present in this foaming face wash effectively eliminates aged dead skin cells, pore-clogging impurities, and even ultra-fine dust that is invisible to the naked eye. This powerful cleansing action is evident in the results.

The mild acid in this cleanser is similar to the healthy pH level of the skin. Using chemicals with an alkaline pH can harm the skin's protective barrier, making it more prone to dryness and other external factors. This daily face wash has a mildly acidic pH that maintains a healthy balance, effectively cleaning dirt from the skin without causing any irritation or dryness. It is suitable for both women and men and helps maintain the proper, low pH level of the skin.

The amino acid complex and CeramideNP present in this daily face wash moisturizes and hydrates the skin after cleansing. The moisturizing patented ingredient (amino acid) has a skin-like structure that enhances moisture retention. The Ceramide NP strengthens the moisture barrier, and eight types of hyaluronic acids provide deep hydration, keeping the skin moist and hydrated.

The facial cleanser has undergone rigorous testing, including skin irritation tests, which have yielded no negative results. It is formulated with 20 warning synthetic ingredients-free, artificial flavors and pigments-free, animal ingredients-free, and alcohol-free, making it a reliable formula for irritation-prone skin. It is also hypoallergenic and has a sub-acidic pH that maintains the skin barrier, making it suitable for all skin types.

5. Clear Skin Scrub: Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment

The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Daily Face Scrub is an effective solution for individuals with acne-prone skin. This 4.2-fluid ounce scrub contains 2% salicylic acid acne medication that helps to clean and exfoliate deep into the pores, sweeping away dirt, oil, and pore-clogging dead skin cells.

This acne-fighting exfoliating face wash is formulated with MicroClear Technology, a powerful technology that has been scientifically proven to enhance the delivery of salicylic acid acne medication to the source of breakouts. The daily face scrub contains exfoliators that dissolve oil, dirt, and impurities, helping to unclog pores and leave skin clear and smooth.

This product is gentle enough for daily use as part of a regular acne-prone skin care routine. It is the #1 dermatologist-recommended acne brand, making it a trustworthy product for those with acne-prone skin. With consistent use, this face scrub can help fight acne and prevent breakouts, leaving your skin looking and feeling healthy.

Say goodbye to acne-prone skin and hello to a clear, smooth complexion with Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Daily Face Scrub.

6. Aloderma Clearing Aloe Face Cleanser For Acne-Prone Skin

Introducing the Aloderma Aloe Vera Face Cleanser, a powerful yet gentle formula that effectively cleanses acne-prone skin, leaving it clear and healthy-looking. This face cleanser is an excellent addition to your daily skincare routine, providing a natural solution to cleanse away dirt, oil, and impurities.

Enriched with mint and witch hazel, this skin cleanser has a natural exfoliating effect that gently removes excess oil without stripping your skin of its natural oils. It is free from parabens, silicones, and microplastics, making it a safe and eco-friendly choice for your skincare regimen.

The Aloderma Aloe Vera Face Cleanser is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that quickly absorbs into the skin, delivering a potent dose of acne-fighting ingredients. With regular use, you'll see an improvement in the appearance of your skin, leaving it clear and blemish-free.

Aloderma is a farm-to-face skincare line that is committed to producing high-quality organic aloe vera-based products in an ecologically friendly way. Their Aloe is processed on-site and turned into final products within hours of leaving the fields, ensuring that the natural power of Aloe Vera is captured in every product they make.

Their farms and factory are certified USDA and European Union organic by ECOCERT, which means that you can trust that their products are safe and free from harmful chemicals. With over 20 years of working with Aloe, Aloderma provides high-quality and affordable products for beauty, health, and wellness.

7. Clearskin Daily: Oil-Free Acne Cleanser By Mario Badescu

Introducing a daily-use face wash specially formulated for oily and troubled skin. This oil-free face wash is designed to deeply cleanse the skin and break down surface impurities and pore-clogging oils, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and purified.

The key ingredient in this face wash is salicylic acid BHA, which helps to tackle blemishes and congestion. Additionally, it is infused with a blend of aloe vera, chamomile, and thyme to calm and soothe the skin. This powerful combination of ingredients works together to provide a gentle yet effective deep clean that is perfect for daily use.

This face wash is free from oil, making it an ideal choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It is also vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about your purchase knowing that it was made with ethical practices in mind. Plus, it is made in the USA, ensuring that you are getting a high-quality product that meets strict manufacturing standards.

Achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin with this oil-free face wash. Give your skin the deep clean it needs to stay refreshed and purified every day.

8. Clearskin Charcoal Daily Cleanser For All

The Natural Outcome Charcoal Face Wash is a highly effective product designed to purify and detoxify acne-prone skin. It is perfect for individuals with oily skin who are looking for a solution to their greasy skin. This face wash is formulated to eliminate pore-clogging oils and dirt, preventing acne breakouts while promoting a healthier and clearer complexion.

The Natural Outcome Charcoal Face Wash is specially designed to deeply cleanse the skin, removing impurities and toxins. It is formulated with natural ingredients that work together to provide a balanced and hydrated complexion. The face wash contains Charcoal, a natural detoxifier that deeply cleanses the skin, Green Tea, a natural skin cleansing extract that helps to heal and repair damaged skin, and Ginkgo Biloba Extract, which improves skin circulation and provides antioxidants that protect the skin surface.

Applying the Natural Outcome Charcoal Face Wash is easy and painless. Simply pump a dab of the product into your hands, gently massage the solution onto your face in a circular motion until fully absorbed. This product is perfect for use day and night, and is suitable for both men and women struggling with acne-prone skin.

The Natural Outcome brand is committed to providing safe and effective skincare products that are naturally sourced in the USA. All products are made with pure and honest intentions, and do not contain sulfates, parabens, or dyes. This face wash is never tested on animals, making it a cruelty-free option for those who care about the environment.

9. Oil-Free Foaming Face Cleanser For Acne-Prone Skin

Introducing a gentle and effective solution for oily and problem skin – the daily facial cleanser that provides a deep cleanse and thoroughly removes makeup, oil, dirt, and environmental impurities that often lead to blackheads and pimples.

This face wash is formulated to provide light exfoliation while soothing your skin. It contains an infusion of lactic acid, aloe vera, and gluconolactone which work together to purify and soften your skin.

Using this facial cleanser is an essential step in your daily skin care routine if you want to minimize breakouts and maintain a healthy-looking complexion.

Whether you have oily or problem skin, this cleanser is suitable for daily use. It works gently yet effectively to cleanse your skin without stripping it of its natural oils.

With this facial cleanser, you can rest assured that you are using a product that is both gentle and effective. It is designed to leave your skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed without any harsh side effects.

Add this gentle facial cleanser to your daily skin care routine and enjoy the benefits of healthy, glowing skin.

10. Effaclar Foaming Facial Cleanser: Clear Skin Formula

This cream cleanser is a game-changer for those with oily skin. With its deep-cleansing and pore-minimizing properties, it helps to unclog and shrink pores without leaving the skin feeling dry or stripped.

One of the unique features of this cream cleanser is that it transforms into a soft, rich foam upon use. This makes it easy to apply and rinse off, leaving behind a refreshed and clean complexion.

Formulated with Salicylic Acid, this cream cleanser is known for its effective exfoliating properties. It helps to clear and refine the appearance of pores, making it an ideal choice for those concerned with clogged pores and oily skin.

Despite its powerful cleansing abilities, this cream cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use and safe for sensitive skin. It effectively removes excess oil without causing any irritation or discomfort.

Best Facial Cleanser For Oily Acne Prone Skin FAQs

Are foaming cleansers or non-foaming cleansers better for oily, acne-prone skin?

When it comes to choosing between foaming and non-foaming cleansers for oily, acne-prone skin, it ultimately depends on personal preference and skin type. Foaming cleansers are generally considered better for oily skin types as they contain surfactants that help to remove excess oil and impurities from the skin's surface. However, some foaming cleansers can be too harsh and strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. On the other hand, non-foaming cleansers are often more gentle and hydrating, making them a better choice for those with dry or sensitive skin.

It's important to look for a cleanser that is specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin, and contains ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help combat breakouts. It's also recommended to avoid cleansers with added fragrances or harsh exfoliants, as these can further irritate and exacerbate acne-prone skin. In the end, it's best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the best cleanser for your individual skin type and concerns.

Are natural or organic facial cleansers better for oily, acne-prone skin than synthetic ones?

Natural or organic facial cleansers can be better for oily, acne-prone skin than synthetic ones. This is because natural ingredients are typically gentler and less likely to cause irritation or inflammation, which can aggravate acne. Many natural ingredients also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce acne and keep skin clear.

Some of the best natural ingredients for oily, acne-prone skin include tea tree oil, witch hazel, salicylic acid, and clay. These ingredients can help to unclog pores, control oil production, and reduce inflammation.

However, it's important to note that not all natural or organic products are created equal. Some natural ingredients can be irritating or allergenic for certain people, so it's important to do your research and choose products that are appropriate for your skin type and concerns.

Overall, natural or organic facial cleansers can be a good choice for those with oily, acne-prone skin, but it's important to choose products carefully and pay attention to how your skin responds.

Are there any facial cleansers specifically designed for hormonal acne in oily skin types?

Yes, there are facial cleansers specifically designed for hormonal acne in oily skin types. Hormonal acne is caused by an imbalance of hormones, which can lead to excess oil production and clogged pores. To combat this type of acne, it is important to use a cleanser that is specifically formulated to address these issues.

One such cleanser is the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser. This cleanser is designed to target excess oil and remove impurities from the skin, which can help to reduce the occurrence of hormonal acne. It contains salicylic acid, which is a powerful acne-fighting ingredient that can help to unclog pores and exfoliate the skin.

Another option is the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash. This cleanser is also formulated with salicylic acid and is designed to remove excess oil and impurities from the skin. It is gentle enough to use daily and can help to prevent future breakouts.

When looking for a facial cleanser for hormonal acne in oily skin types, it is important to choose a product that is specifically designed for your skin type and addresses the root causes of acne. It is also important to follow a consistent skincare routine and use products that are gentle and non-irritating.

Are there any specific brands or products that are highly recommended for oily, acne-prone skin?

Yes, there are several brands and products that are highly recommended for oily, acne-prone skin. One of the most popular brands is La Roche-Posay, which offers a range of products specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin. Their Effaclar line includes cleansers, toners, and moisturizers that are formulated with active ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to help clear up acne and control oil production.

Another highly recommended brand is Cetaphil, which offers gentle yet effective cleansers and moisturizers that are suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Their DermaControl line includes products that are specifically formulated to control oil production and minimize the appearance of pores.

Other brands that are worth considering include Neutrogena, Bioderma, and Avene. When choosing products for oily, acne-prone skin, it's important to look for formulas that are oil-free, non-comedogenic, and that contain active ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids to help clear up acne and control oil production. It's also a good idea to talk to a dermatologist for personalized recommendations.

Can a facial cleanser alone help clear up acne, or do I need to use additional acne-fighting products?

A facial cleanser alone may not be enough to completely clear up acne. While a good facial cleanser can help to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin, it may not be effective in treating the underlying causes of acne such as bacteria, excess oil production, and inflammation.

To effectively combat acne, it is often necessary to use additional acne-fighting products such as topical treatments, toners, and moisturizers that contain active ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids. These ingredients help to unclog pores, kill acne-causing bacteria, and reduce inflammation.

It is important to note that everyone's skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is recommended to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the best course of action for your individual skin concerns. In addition, maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress levels, and avoiding touching or picking at the skin can also help to prevent and treat acne.

Can oil-based cleansers be effective for oily, acne-prone skin?

Yes, oil-based cleansers can be effective for oily, acne-prone skin. It may seem counterintuitive to use oil to cleanse oily skin, but oil-based cleansers can actually help to balance the skin's natural oil production and prevent breakouts. This is because oil-based cleansers work by dissolving the excess oil and impurities on the skin's surface, without stripping the skin of its natural oils.

Oil-based cleansers can also be beneficial for acne-prone skin because they are typically formulated with ingredients that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, such as tea tree oil and lavender oil. These ingredients can help to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria, which can lead to clearer, healthier-looking skin.

However, it's important to choose an oil-based cleanser that is specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin and to use it as part of a complete skincare regimen that includes a moisturizer and sunscreen. It's also important to patch test any new skincare product before using it on your entire face to avoid potential irritation or allergic reactions.

How often should I use a facial cleanser for oily, acne-prone skin?

For oily, acne-prone skin, it is generally recommended to use a facial cleanser twice a day- once in the morning and once at night. Over-washing your face can strip your skin of its natural oils, which can cause your skin to produce even more oil and exacerbate acne. However, it is important to note that everyone's skin is different, and some people may find that washing their face once a day or every other day works better for them. When choosing a facial cleanser, look for one that is specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin and contains ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help to unclog pores and reduce acne. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and balanced. If you experience any irritation or dryness, reduce the frequency of use or switch to a gentler cleanser.

Should I avoid cleansers with fragrances or essential oils if I have oily, acne-prone skin?

If you have oily, acne-prone skin, it is best to avoid cleansers with fragrances or essential oils. Fragrances and essential oils can irritate the skin and cause breakouts. Oily skin is prone to clogged pores and excess oil production, which can lead to acne. Using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser can help remove excess oil and dirt without causing irritation or dryness. Look for a cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help unclog pores and reduce the appearance of acne. It is also important to avoid using harsh scrubs or exfoliants, as they can further irritate the skin. Remember to always patch test new products before using them on your face and consult with a dermatologist if you are experiencing persistent acne.

Should I use a physical exfoliant or a chemical exfoliant in my facial cleanser for oily, acne-prone skin?

When it comes to choosing an exfoliant for oily, acne-prone skin, it is important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of both physical and chemical exfoliants. Physical exfoliants, such as scrubs, can effectively remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, but they can also be harsh and irritating to the skin, especially if used too frequently or aggressively. Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand, use ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to gently dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores, without the risk of physical irritation.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and skin type. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to redness and irritation, a chemical exfoliant may be the safer choice. If you prefer the feel of a physical exfoliant, look for products with gentle, rounded particles, and use them no more than once or twice a week. It is also important to choose a facial cleanser that is specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin, with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help clear and prevent breakouts. As always, be sure to patch test any new products and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns or questions about your skincare routine.

What are the best ingredients to look for in a facial cleanser for oily, acne-prone skin?

When it comes to choosing a facial cleanser for oily, acne-prone skin, there are several ingredients that can be beneficial. Look for a cleanser that contains salicylic acid, which is a beta hydroxy acid that can penetrate deep into pores to unclog and exfoliate. Another effective ingredient is benzoyl peroxide, which can kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Tea tree oil is a natural ingredient that has antimicrobial properties and can also help to reduce inflammation. Clay-based cleansers can be effective for oily skin types, as they can absorb excess oil and impurities. Finally, a gentle exfoliant like glycolic acid can help to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. It's important to avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol and fragrances, which can irritate and dry out the skin. Overall, choose a cleanser that is specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin and contains a combination of these beneficial ingredients.

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