13 Best Natural Face Washes For Acne (2024), According To A Dermatologist
Treat your face with skin-friendly and gentle formulas to improve its texture.
Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.
His authority is widely recognized, and his expert opinion has been sought by many prestigious publications, including Forbes, Glamour, Good Morning America, ABC News, and many others.
Read full bio of Dr. Schwarzburg
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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If you have been bothered by pimples, acne, and breakouts for long, try switching to the best natural face wash for acne-prone skin. These face washes are scientifically formulated with powerful acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid. These natural face washes also have the added antiseptic benefits and anti-inflammatory properties of ingredients like neem and tea tree oil!
A natural face wash not only helps cleanse your skin of dirt and excess oil and unclogs pores, but it also helps balance your skin’s pH level. Scroll down to choose one for yourself from the 13 best expert-recommended natural face washes listed below!
1. Best Against Dark Spots:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
The Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser helps reduce dark spots, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation. It is scientifically formulated with glycolic acid and botanical ingredients that cast off dead skin cells. This cleanser unclogs pores, removes dirt, and controls skin oils that trigger acne. It revitalizes, softens, and hydrates dull skin. This facial cleanser removes cystic acne scars and restores your skin. It is cruelty-free and does not contain sulfates and parabens. Watch this video for a detailed review of the product.
Key Ingredients: 10% Glycolic acid, Bamboo, Shea butter, Willow bark, Tea tree, Peppermint, Lavender, and Seaweed
Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May dry out the skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 2,626 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
2. Best Cruelty-Free:Pure Biology Facial Cleanser
The Pure Biology Facial Cleanser is scientifically formulated with hyaluronic acid that nourishes and hydrates your skin. It contains proline that increases collagen production and renews skin cells.
This cleanser is enriched with Fision Wrinkle Fix that reduces wrinkles, removes age spots, and firms the skin. The essential oils with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties provide visible results by helping hydrate your skin and reducing acne. This cleanser maintains a healthy balance of good bacteria and moisture in your skin. It is cruelty-free and does not contain GMOs and parabens.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Proline, Lemongrass oil, Rosemary oil, Clary sage oil, and Lemon peel oil
Skin Type: Oily, mature, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 6 inches | Weight: 6 Ounces
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains sulfates
Stylecraze SaysWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,652 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
3. Best Anti-Aging:Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser
The Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser is fortified with vitamin C that combats blackheads, acne, and dark spots. It contains natural ingredients like essential oils that nourish the skin, keeping it healthy and radiant. Jojoba beads cleanse dead cells and grime, unclogging blocked pores. This gentle, professional-grade formula with anti-aging properties helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines while offering clean skin. This product is non-comedogenic, cruelty-free, and a conscious choice for your skin care routine.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Jojoba beads, Rosehip, Organic aloe, Olive oil, Clementine essential oil, Tea Tree essential oil, Rosemary extract, and Red clover extract
Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 6 x 2 x 2 inches | Weight: 7.83 Ounces
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Mild cleansing grains
- Cruelty-free (Leaping bunny certified)
- Gentle formula
- Brightens the skin
Cons
- Might dry out the skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 907 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
| Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser Best Against Dark Spots | Pure Biology Facial Cleanser Best Cruelty-Free | Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser Best Anti-Aging | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive | Oily, Combination, Dry, Mature, Normal | Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive |
| Dimensions | - | 2 x 2 x 6 inches | - |
| Weight | - | 6 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,626 | 1,652 | 907 |
| Price | $24.9 | $24.49 | $18.99 |
4. Best Detoxifying Formula:Pacifica Beauty Kale Detox Deep Cleansing Face Wash
The Pacifica Beauty Kale Detox Deep Cleansing Face Wash helps your skin stay clear of blemishes and breakouts. It is enriched with kale, clay, and super greens that gently exfoliate the dirt, grime, and pollutants from your pores. The formula’s coconut oil and aloe vera have shown proven efficacy in moisturizing your skin and soothing it from within. This gentle formula can be used twice daily. It fights against breakouts and controls excess sebum production. This affordable option also tones the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and plump.
Key Ingredients: Kale, Clay, Super greens, Coconut oil, and Aloe vera
Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 1.6 x 2.6 x 7.1 inches | Weight: 5.6 Ounces
Pros
- Lathers well
- Gentle
- Suitable for day and night use
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- SLS-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petroleum-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
5. Best Against Acne:Chic Republic Detox Face Wash
The Chic Republic Detox Face Wash contains activated charcoal that exfoliates your skin and draws out impurities. It is enriched with three different tea extracts that revitalize and nourish your skin, preventing premature aging. The essential oils form a protective moisturizing barrier from irritants and pollutants.
This gentle face wash with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties helps combat skin irritation and acne. It is rich in antioxidants that restore nutrients of your skin and keep it healthy. This vegan product is cruelty-free and does not contain parabens, gluten, sulfates, and phthalates. This is the perfect charcoal detox for oily skin which leaves your face with a healthy glow. Here’s a video to know about the reviewer’s experience with this product.
Key Ingredients: Activated charcoal, Coconut oil, Aloe vera, Olive Oil, Rooibos tea, White tea, Green tea extracts, Orange peel, Vitamin B5, Vitamin C, Sunflower oil, and Tamanu seed oil
Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,All Skin Types
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Dye-free
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
Cons
- May cause dryness.
6. Best Sulfate-Free:Tree To Tub Soapberry For Face
The Tree To Tub Soapberry For Face contains wild soapberry that cleanses impurities from your skin. It contains natural moisturizers aloe vera and shea butter, and acai that maintain the skin’s pH balance.
This face wash is infused with chamomile, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It minimizes wrinkles and prevents breakouts. This gentle formula is dermatologist-tested and does not strip your skin’s natural oils. This cruelty-free product does not contain sulfates, parabens, silicones, DEA, MEA, gluten, and artificial fragrances. It is also perfect for makeup removal.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Aloe vera, Açaí, Chamomile, Wild Soapberry, and Coconut extracts
Skin Type: All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 2.28 x 6.01 inches | Weight: 6.2 Ounces
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- DEA-free
- MEA-free
- Gluten-free
- No artificial fragrances
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist recommended
Cons
- May cause redness and irritated skin
Stylecraze SaysWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 549 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
7. Best For Damaged Skin:chilogy Charcoal Face Wash
The chilogy Charcoal Face Wash contains activated charcoal that purifies your skin by unclogging the pores and exfoliating dead skin cells. Charcoal controls oil production and helps treat acne, dermatitis, rosacea, and blemishes. This acne face wash contains antioxidants that hydrate and revitalize the skin. It may help reduce rough skin patches. This cruelty-free cleanser repairs damaged skin and evens out the skin tone. It is free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and gluten.
Key Ingredients: Coconut, Sunflower oil, Olive oils, Aloe vera gel, Orange peel, Rooibos leaf extract, White Tea extracts, and Green tea extracts
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.88 x 1.88 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 6 Ounces
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- None
8. Best Vegan:no b.s. Foaming Cleanser
The no b.s. Foaming Cleanser contains aloe vera that rejuvenates your skin and reduces inflammation and scarring caused by acne. The gentle formula contains cucumber and green tea that brighten your skin, reducing puffiness and dark circles. These antioxidants also protect your skin against free radical damage and pollutants. This vegan face wash dissolves makeup and clears clogged pores. This dermatologist-tested aloe vera face wash is cruelty-free and does not contain sulfates, gluten, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and petrochemicals.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Cucumber, Green tea, and Lavender oil
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
- No artificial fragrance
- Petrochemical-free
- Dermatologist recommended
- Vegan
Cons
- Leaves a residue on the skin.
9. Best Paraben-Free:artnaturals Tea Tree Face Wash
The artnaturals Tea Tree Face Wash has antiseptic properties that combat acne, unclogs pores, and improves the skin tone. It is enriched with plant-derived botanicals – chrysanthemum and aloe vera – that soothe skin inflammation. Allantoin exfoliates dead skin cells, shrinks the pores, and hydrates the skin. This vegan face wash balances the sebum production of the skin, heals acne, and prevents breakouts. It is cruelty-free and does not contain parabens and sulfates.
Key Ingredients: Green tea extract, Allantoin, Tea Tree oil, Aloe Vera, and Chrysanthemum
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- May leave a residue
10. Best pH-Balanced:Wild Naturals Manuka Honey Facial Cleanser
The Wild Naturals Manuka Honey Facial Cleanser heals and moisturizes the skin. It is enriched with aloe vera and cehami flower, which soothe skin irritation and redness. These ingredients support cell renewal and protect your skin from harmful acne-producing bacteria.
Aloe vera enhances the skin tone and keeps your skin pH-balanced. This cruelty-free cleanser reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes. It does not contain sulfates, phthalates, petroleum, parabens, PEG, artificial fragrance, and dye. For sensitive skin, it is better to conduct a patch test to avoid any unwanted side effects.
Key Ingredients: Manuka honey, Aloe vera, Cehami flower extract, Vitamin E, and Coconut oil
Skin Type: All, Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry | Product Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 5.6 inches | Weight: 4.97 Ounces
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Petroleum-free
- PEG-free
- Paraben-free
- pH-balanced
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- Might dry out the skin.
11. Best Nourishing:WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash
The WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash gives you rejuvenated skin. The apple cider vinegar in the formula balances your skin’s pH level and tones your skin. It is also infused with the natural ingredient aloe vera which moisturizes your skin and soothes it, while the vitamins B5 & E fill your skin with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and lighten blemishes and dark spots. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid that strengthens the collagen structure of your skin.
The dermatologically tested product is designed with an inbuilt brush that features soft, silicone bristles. The brush helps gently exfoliate the dead skin cells of your skin while stimulating blood circulation. This vegan product is free of sulfates, alcohol, and gluten.
Key Ingredients: Apple Cider Vinegar, Aloe Vera, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamins B5 & E
Skin Type: All, Oily, Sensitive
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Built-in face exfoliating brush
- Value for money
- Pleasant, natural fragrance
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Sulfate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- The pump may not work properly
12. Best Paraben-Free:Zoi Naturals Neroli Face Wash
The Zoi Naturals Neroli Face Wash contains plant-derived ingredients that keep your skin moisturized. It contains soapnut that draws out skin impurities. Aloe vera and shea butter hydrate the skin, while olive and coconut oils control blemishes and reduce wrinkles.
This vegan face wash encourages cell renewal and prevents acne. It protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals, toxins, and UV rays. This cruelty-free product does not contain gluten, toxins, artificial colors, GMOs, fillers, parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Nevertheless, a patch test is recommended for sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Neem extract, Coconut oil, Shea butter, Aloe vera, Soapnut, Olive oil, Brahmi, and Neroli oil
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.57 x 1.57 x 5.12 inches | Weight: 3.38 Ounces.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- No artificial colors
- GMO-free
- No fillers
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Strong fragrance
13. Best Non-Drying:Green Leaf Naturals Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser
The Green Leaf Naturals Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser is enriched with botanical ingredients that help refresh and soothe your skin. It contains aloe vera, white tea, and rooibos tea that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. These ingredients help nourish the skin, clear blocked pores, and remove makeup buildup.
Organic lavender and calendula reduces the appearance of acne and fine lines while healing the skin. This aloe vera and calendula cleanser for breakouts is non-drying and maintains the pH balance of the skin. It is cruelty-free and does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, soy, gluten, or artificial colors.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Green tea, White tea, Rooibos tea, Sunflower seed oil, Olive oil, Lavender flower extract, and Calendula flower extract
Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,All Skin Types | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 7 inches | Weight: 8.16 Ounces
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Soy-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- No artificial colors
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
If you want to get rid of acne in a gentle, natural way, these products are your best bet. But what makes them the best of the lot? In the section below, we have discussed all the factors that you can consider to judge if a natural face wash for acne is worth committing to. Take a look.
In This Article
Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Natural Face Washes For Acne
- Gentleness: Your acne-treating face wash should leave a gentle and soothing feel when cleansing. It must nourish, hydrate, and smoothen the skin to ensure a youthful glow. The face wash must not cause irritation, rashes, and allergies. It must be suitable for multiple uses daily. If you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, always check the ingredient list thoroughly before buying a product.
- Organic Ingredients: Face washes having a rich blend of organic ingredients are best for skin’s health. They help to get rid of acne, and allergies while improving the skin glow. Potent ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, and lavender have clinically-proven antioxidant properties. They have shown proven efficacy in repairing and renewing your skin while fighting inflammation. The face washes must also contain neem, cucumber, and shea butter to disinfect, soothe, and moisturize the skin.
- Chemical Content: Artificial chemicals used in skin care products as preservatives damage the skin. Choose those acne-curing face washes that do not contain any traces of silicone, SLS, phthalate, paraben, and sulfate. These products strip off the skin’s natural moisture and cause dryness. The best face washes are also vegan, GMO-free, and not tested on animals
- Comedogenecity: Comedogenic ingredients block the skin pores. This decreases skin breathability and results in acne, breakouts, and dryness. To treat acne, make sure that your facial cleanser is non-comedogenic. It should contain beneficial acid like lactic, glycolic, etc. to cleanse out the pores from within and give you clear, fresh skin.
- Other Features: Use acne-treating face washes with a gentle and soothing fragrance that could invigorate your senses. The cleanser must not leave residue after it is washed away. Finally, consider lightweight cleansers that are dermatologist recommended.
Infographic: The Dos And Don’ts Of Washing Your Face If You Have Acne
Acne-prone skin requires a little extra TLC. Following improper practices might irritate your skin and exacerbate acne. Worry not! You can effectively cleanse your skin and avoid breakouts by employing the right strategy. Check out the infographic below to learn more. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
“Many skin care products unfortunately contain alcohol and harsh chemicals that may even cause damage to your skin in the long run. Natural products are often more gentle, allowing you to cleanse your skin without future backlash,” says Dr. Schwarzburg, MD, expert in cosmetic dermatology.
If you are tired of trying out various ways to keep acne and breakouts at bay, the best natural face washes for acne will work wonders for your skin. These acne-fighting face cleansers have ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid and have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. They also have plant-based ingredients that will control excess oil, unclog pores, and maintain the pH balance of your acne-prone oily or combination skin. The Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser softens dull skin, while the Pure Biology Facial Cleanser contains hyaluronic acid that nourishes and hydrates your skin. The Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser‘s formulation brightens the skin. These face washes have a gentle and non-comedogenic formula that is safe for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make a homemade face wash for acne?
In a mixing bowl, combine two teaspoons of curd and organic honey. Mix it well and apply it to your face. Then rinse it off with cold water. If you have dry skin, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the mixture.
What is the healthiest way to wash your face?
• Use a non-abrasive, mild cleaner.
• First, remove all of your makeup.
• Apply lukewarm water to your skin.
• With your fingertips, massage the cleanser into your skin.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat your skin dry.
• Moisturize your skin.
What can I use instead of face wash?
Clean your face with a washcloth and warm water instead of a face wash in you don’t have a face wash with you. Simply sprinkle warm water on your face to open your pores, then exfoliate softly with the washcloth. You can wash your skin with raw honey, yogurt, or even olive oil for a more thorough cleanse.
Can I wash my face with just water?
Yes, you can wash your face just with water. However, it will only remove the loose dirt on the surface of your face.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She relies on organic face cleansers to solve acne concerns. She browsed various trusted online platforms to read hundreds of reviews and went through user feedback to provide you with the best natural face washes for acne. Apart from cleansing your face, these face cleansers can remove acne scars, minimize dark spots and sunspots, and reduce aging signs.
Best Organic Face Cleansers To Solve Acne IssuesBest Paraben-Free Face Washes For Every Skin TypeBest Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Cleansers To Reduce AcneBest Natural Face Washes For Dry Skin
Read full bio of Dr. Schwarzburg
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