13 Best Salicylic Acid Body Washes For Clear, Beautiful Skin
Keep your body clean, smooth, supple, and healthy with salicylic acid body wash.
Dr. Danielle Marr Collins is an Irish esthetics doctor and an aerospace engineer with over 15 years of experience. She opened the first DermaFaceMD Anti-Aging & Anti-Wrinkle Clinic in 2009 in Dublin, Ireland. She has a DDS from Trinity College, Dublin, and has completed a 3-year Masters in Aesthetic Medicine.
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Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
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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 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
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Zits can appear anywhere on the body and not just on the face. If these breakouts are not addressed, they can grow in size and cause excruciating discomfort. Fortunately, you can use the best salicylic acid body washes to deal with body breakouts. Salicylic acid promotes the natural exfoliation process of the skin and helps clear the dead skin cells and dirt from the skin pores. Apart from that, these body washes contain other potent ingredients that may help to keep your skin healthy, soft, and smooth. As a result, your skin stays clean, free of extra sebum, dirt, dead skin cells, and debris.
If you are struggling with breakouts on your body, it is time you should try salicylic acid body washes to get clearer skin. To help you out, we have prepared a list of the best salicylic acid body washes for clear and flawless skin. Scroll down to check them out.
In This Article
Top 13 Salicylic Acid Body Washes For Acne-Free Skin
1. Best Moisturizing Formula: CeraVe SA Body Wash For Rough And Bumpy Skin
If you wish to rid your skin of bumps and acne, this CeraVe body wash made with a chemical exfoliant such as salicylic acid is the perfect one for you! It is filled with zit-zapping key ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that fight breakouts by cleansing the pores and reducing your acne scars for clear skin. Plus, they combat dryness and keep your skin clear and acne-free, leaving it soft and supple. The formula is free of parabens and fragrances. If you want to know more about the benefits of CeraVe SA Body Wash For Rough And Bumpy Skin, check out this YouTube review.
Pros
- Moisturizing and hydrating formula
- Fragrance and paraben-free
- Deep cleansing properties
- No harsh microbeads
Cons
- May not be ideal for extremely sensitive skin
Review:
A tester adds, “CeraVe SA Body Wash has been a game-changer for multiple reasons. The easy-to-use squeeze bottle changed my previous packaging frustrations. It’s proven effective for my shoulder acne, improving texture in just a week. Great that it’s unscented, it’s a great addition to my routine.”
Pro Tip2. Best Dermatologist-Tested Formula: Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash
The Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash is encapsulated with time-released salicylic acid that gently exfoliates your skin, cleanses clogged pores, and leaves your skin soft and smooth. This skin-friendly body wash maintains your skin’s natural pH level and prevents dryness and irritation. It is also infused with glycerin that boosts moisture in your skin and safflower seed and olive fruit oil that nourish and replenish your skin barrier. This dermatologist-tested body wash is suitable for all skin types and ideal for daily use. Additionally, you can use it as a facial cleanser. This body wash is a must-have product if you engage in strenuous activities and intense workouts daily.
Pros
- Suitable for daily use
- Promotes skin renewal
- Safe for all skin types
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Does not lather well
Review:
A user adds, “Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash is a must-have for my teens and me. It tackles various skin issues – razor burn, bumps, and acne – effectively. It’s gentle, delivers visible results, and even helps control odor. Truly worth it!”
3. Best Oil-Balancing Formula: Pacifica Acne Warrior Body Wash
The Pacifica Acne Warrior Body Wash is a medicated body acne treatment. It is formulated with 2% salicylic acid that fights acne-causing bacteria and inhibits their growth. This body wash is great for those with blemish-prone skin as it is infused with niacinamide to clean the pores and minimize their appearance while controlling excess oil production. This hydrating formula also contains aloe and cucumber that delivers soothing and moisturizing benefits to your skin. The clarifying body wash releases a watermelon and minty fragrance that calms and refreshes your senses.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Suitable for all skin types
- Refreshing scent
- Value for money
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Talc-free
Cons
- Slightly drying
Review:
A user says, “I’m a big fan of the Pacifica Acne Warrior Body Wash. It’s been a game-changer for my back acne. Combined with the backne spray, it’s truly impressive. Highly recommend it!”
Pro TipCeraVe SA Body Wash For Rough And Bumpy Skin Best Moisturizing Formula | Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash Best Dermatologist-Tested Formula | Pacifica Acne Warrior Body Wash Best Oil-Balancing Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily, Sensitive, Dry | All | Oily, Combination |
| Dimensions | 1.56 x 2.88 x 6.31 inches | 9 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches | - |
| Weight | 11.84 Ounces | 1.28 Pounds. | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,521 | - | - |
| Price | $13.99 | $13.99 | $16 |
4. Best For Oily Skin: Neutrogena Clear Body Wash With Pink Grapefruit
The Neutrogena salicylic acid body wash is a beauty staple in every body care closet for for many years, and for the right reasons. It contains active acne-fighting ingredients like vitamin C, and pink grapefruit extract that treat oily skin and pimples at the base and unclogs pores to prevent them from ever coming back. It also contains beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that removes excess oil and dead skin cells from the surface for cleaner and smoother skin. The hydrating formula has glycerin and aloe vera, which prevents over-drying too. Check out this video on YouTube for a detailed understanding of the Neutrogena Clear Body Wash With Pink Grapefruit. Thousands of positive reviews on Amazon indicate that this skin care product is proven to deliver visible results by the general public.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Promotes skin renewal
- Suitable for oily skin
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Treats and prevents body acne
Cons
- May contain added colors
Review:
A tester says, “I recently discovered Neutrogena Clear Body Wash with Pink Grapefruit, and I’m impressed! It effectively tackles my acne while being gentle on my eczema-prone skin. The subtle melon and cucumber scent is pleasant. It’s become my go-to salicylic acid body cleanser, a true Holy Grail.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 4,094 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
5. Best Soap-Free Formula: Phisoderm Anti-Blemish Body Wash
One wash is all it takes to get you hooked to this salicylic acid body wash! The soothing formula is filled with potent ingredients like vitamin E, aloe, and chamomile, which gently cleanse and calm the skin. The body wash lathers up beautifully and rinses off without leaving any sticky residue behind. As it is washed off, it leaves a refreshing scent to give you a delightful sensorial experience. Oil-free, soap-free, and dye-free, we can’t find a single reason for you not to grab this product immediately!
Pros
- Oil-free
- Soap-free
- Dye-free
- Refreshing scent
- Suitable for combination and oily skin
Cons
- Some find this product to be over-drying on the skin.
Review:
A tester says, “I switched to Phisoderm Anti-Blemish Body Wash, and it’s been a great change. My back acne has significantly improved. The light floral scent is pleasant, and it’s kind to my sensitive skin. Plus, it’s more affordable and does the job well.”
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 1,848 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
6. Best Non-Comedogenic: Touch KP Exfoliating Wash
The benefits of salicylic acid body washes are endless! They help clear existing breakouts, exfoliate the skin, reduce back acne, and prevent future breakouts. This hydrating body wash is sulfate-free and includes 15% glycolic acid to exfoliate clogged pores and cleanse skin effectively. It also has potent ingredients like BHAs, AHAs, aloe vera, vitamin E, and gotu kola. Together, they make an easy solution to prevent inflammation, treat acne, stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce hyperpigmentation. The product is not tested on animals and is ideal for those looking for ethical body washes. The brand also claims that its ingredients are clean and clinically proven.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May cause irritation and redness, in rare cases. It is advisable to do a patch test before application.
Review:
A reviewer says, “I initially mistook my bumps for KP and exfoliated frequently, which worsened the issue. After realizing it was folliculitis, I adjusted my routine. This product, used weekly, combined with changes like avoiding tight clothing, helped clear my skin. It’s thick and effective, with a soothing effect.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 453 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
7. Best For Sensitive Skin: Murad Acne Control Body Wash
This proactive salicylic acid body wash for sensitive skin is great for clearing pores and treating body breakouts long after rinsing. It contains a powerhouse of ingredients like tea tree extract, jojoba extract, camellia leaf extract, and date seed powder, which combat skin inflammation, reduces the severity of different types of acne, thereby killing acne-causing bacteria with its antibacterial properties. This body wash is excellent for combination, oily, and sensitive skin types and is a must-have product if you want a completely cruelty-free body wash. If you need further convincing, check out this YouTuber’s video.
Pros
- Prevents and treats body acne
- Suitable for all skin types
- Provides gentle body exfoliation
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May contain added fragrances and colors
Review:
A user says, “I’ve tried countless products, but Murad Acne Control Body Wash truly stands out. It’s a game-changer for my chest and back acne. It doesn’t eliminate breakouts completely, but it significantly delays their return. I’m impressed and happy with the results.”
8. Best Sulfate-Free Formula: Botanic Tree KP Exfoliating Wash
If you want to have acne-free skin and prevent any breakouts in the future, reach out for this cruelty-free salicylic acid body wash. It has acne-fighting ingredients like tea tree oil, and glycolic acid for exfoliated, clean skin. Along with this, it has aloe vera and collagen to promote soft, healthy, and hydrated skin. Rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties, the moisturizing formulation gently exfoliates the skin from any dead skin cells without triggering inflammation.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Moisturizing formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free of parabens, dyes, phthalates, sulfates, and drying alcohols
Cons
- May not be effective on body acne.
Review:
a user says, “Having sensitive skin with keratosis pilaris and eczema, finding a suitable exfoliator was tough. This wash is a game-changer – it buffs away roughness without irritation. Using it every other day keeps my skin smoother. Highly recommend for anyone seeking a great exfoliating scrub.”
9. Best For Blemishes: Misumi Blemish Clear Body Wash
This body wash containing salicylic acid is a crowd favorite because of its gentle formula and potent acne-combatting ingredients. Lactic and glycolic acid work together to exfoliate and cleanse acne-prone skin and control blemishes. Filled with AHAs, this product promotes blood flow to the skin with its anti-inflammatory properties to ensure skin is left feeling soft and smooth with a radiant skin complexion. It also contains lavender that helps soothe skin and offers an even skin tone.
Pros
- Effective against keratosis pilaris
- Reduces inflammation
- Prevents breakouts
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Provides exfoliation for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Some may find the consistency to be a bit too thin
Review:
A tester says, “After struggling with persistent bacne for years, I found Misumi Blemish Clear Body Wash. It didn’t foam much, but results amazed me. My back is clearer than it’s been in 15 years! Stick with it, and you’ll see improvement. Highly recommended for battling body acne.”
10. Best Vegan Formula: Home Health Psoriasis Medicated Scalp and Body Wash
This vegan salicylic acid body wash is clinically effective for skin that suffers from constant breakouts and psoriasis. It contains powerful ingredients like jojoba oil, aloe vera, and carrot oil, that prevents body acne and hydrates your skin. With continuous use, people experience healthy-looking and feeling skin, after every wash. Free of gluten and parabens, the vegan and cruelty-free formula of this product is suitable for sensitive skin.
Pros
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Clinically effective
- Gentle skin cleansing
Cons
- May not be best suited for extremely dry skin
Review:
A tester says, “Dealing with skin irritations and itching was a struggle until I found Home Health Psoriasis Medicated Scalp and Body Wash. It calms my irritable skin, and though it has a medicinal smell, it fades quickly. This product has been a game-changer for me.”
11. Best Fragrance-Free Formula: Men Science Daily Body Wash
This advanced fragrance-free salicylic acid body wash clears impurities, unclogs pores, and controls consistent breakout spells for soft, smooth skin and even skin tone. It’s filled withglycolic acid and tea tree extract, which fight acne-causing bacteria and control oil and sebum production in the skin. It also contains moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera gel that prevent the skin from over-drying. This professional-grade formula has no dyes and irritating ingredients, making it suitable for oily to combination skin.
Pros
- Unscented
- Provides gentle exfoliation
- Professional-grade formulation
- Suitable for combination and oily skin
Cons
- Contains sulfates and parabens
Review:
A reviewer says, “I’ve been using Men Science Daily Body Wash for years and it’s incredibly effective in keeping my skin clear and soft. Though it’s a bit pricey for the size, the results are worth it. It might not lather like regular shower gel, but with a quality sponge and soft water, it works great. The clinical scent is mild and doesn’t overpower. It’s my go-to solution for acne and overall skin health.”
12. Best Vegetarian Formula: Alba Botanica Acne Dote Deep Pore Wash
Use the Alba Botanica Acne Dote Pore Wash and let your pores breathe freely. This powerful botanical formula is infused with willow bark extract and 2% salicylic acid that unclogs your pores and treats the existing acne and zits. It continues to fight off breakouts even after you rinse it out from your entire body. This lathering cleanser also contains parsley extract and witch hazel that soothe your skin and prevent any redness or irritation. You may add this body wash to your shower essentials kit if you are looking for a safe botanical recipe.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Artificial colors and fragrances-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- None
Review:
A user says,”I’ve been using Alba Botanica Acne Dote Deep Pore Wash for years and it’s an essential part of my daily routine. The packaging makes it easy to use without making any mess. The gentle formula and refreshing scent leave my skin clean, soft, and hydrated. With natural ingredients, it keeps my acne-prone skin clear and radiant. ”
13. Bets Foaming Formula: Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
This new and improved Neutrogena salicylic acid body wash is perfect for fighting body breakouts without over-drying your skin. The brand claims that the product shows visible results in just one week of use. This body wash is filled with skin-friendly ingredients like glycerin that make it ideal for sensitive acne-prone skin. It clears pores of dirt, grime, and excess oil for skin that feels soft and refreshed. You can pair this shower gel with any salicylic acid body lotion for best results.
Pros
- Fights breakouts on the chest, back, and shoulders
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Refreshing fragrance
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- In rare cases, it may cause an allergic reaction
Review:
A user says, “Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash has been a lifesaver for my keratin-related skin issues. While it hasn’t completely eliminated them, my skin has significantly improved. It’s been my trusted choice for years, effectively keeping my skin blemish-free. Though my persistent back acne remains a challenge, the wash has offered some improvement after a month of use.”
Now that you know about the top salicylic acid body washes available on the market. Here is an easy buying guide you can follow, when looking for the best one for your skin to treat and prevent skin conditions like blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
How To Choose The Best Salicylic Acid Body Wash For You?
- Skin type
Oily and combination skin types are more prone to breakouts. For these unique skin types, pick a body wash that is non-comedogenic and oil-free. This will help clear the pores without blocking them or adding excess oil that leads to more breakouts. Besides using salicylic acid, normal skin types can also benefit from using body washes with ingredients like aloe vera and tea tree oil for gentle cleansing. For sensitive skin types, be sure to avoid body washes that contain irritating ingredients.
- Skin-loving ingredients
Salicylic acid
is essential to reduce active and painful breakouts, but you can achieve better and faster results when mixed with other potent components. The combination of salicylic acid and glycolic acid is unbeatable. Together they unclog pores, prevent new acne from forming, and treat the existing zits. Also, look for ingredients like tea tree oil and zinc because they are known to kill bacteria and speed up the skin healing process. Opt for dermatologist-recommended ingredients if you have sensitive skin.
- Harmful chemicals
As always, you must stay clear of harmful chemicals and harsh ingredients. Chemicals like parabens and sulfates are put in beauty products to deter bacteria and cleanse skin artificially. These do more harm than good and strip away your skin of its natural oils, making it dry, dull, and lifeless.
Infographic: Salicylic Acid Body Wash – Benefits And How It Works
Salicylic acid is a potent ingredient that provides relief from acne-related skin issues. Therefore, using a salicylic acid body wash is the best bet for people with oily and acne-prone skin types. Check out the following infographic to know how the ingredient functions to give you clear skin. In addition, learn about the various ways the acid benefits the skin. Keep scrolling! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Pimples can pop up anywhere other than your face. One of the best ways to treat them is to use the best salicylic acid body washes to give you clear and beautiful skin. Salicylic acid helps promote the natural exfoliation process of the skin and removes the dead skin cells and dirt from the skin pores. The CeraVe SA Body Wash For Rough And Bumpy Skin combats dryness and calms the skin, while the Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash cleanses clogged pores. The Pacifica Acne Warrior Body Wash controls oil production and minimizes the appearance of the pores. Your skin stays clear from dirt, dead skin cells, excess sebum, and debris with these body washes. Consider your skin type, check the ingredients list, and ensure that the body wash is free from harsh chemicals before getting your hands on the best salicylic body washes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is salicylic acid good for body wash?
Yes, especially if you are experiencing superficial bouts of acne like whiteheads or blackheads. A combination of salicylic and glycolic acid can be used on your body (in the form of body wash) to prevent new breakouts from forming. However, if your acne is severe you must consult a dermatologist.
What’s better for acne, salicylic acid or glycolic acid?
Both are potent ingredients that are useful in treating body acne, but it’s recommended that you don’t use them all the time as you can risk over-exfoliating your skin.
Can you use salicylic acid body wash every day?
You can use it twice or thrice a week, depending on your skin type. If you have sensitive skin with a minimal breakout, then twice a week should be fine.
Is salicylic acid safe to use during pregnancy?
No, it’s not. Use of any salicylic acid product may increase the risk of intracranial bleeding. Please speak to your doctor before using any product during pregnancy.
Can you use salicylic acid body wash on the face?
If you have dry or sensitive facial skin, it is better to avoid salicylic body wash on the face. Use face washes for acne instead, as they have gentler formulas.
What’s more effective for acne – salicylic acid cream or salicylic acid body?
Salicylic acid body washes and creams are both equally good for reducing body acne. A concentration of 2% of salicylic acid prevents the accumulation of dirt in the pores and treats and prevents acne.
Is it okay to use salicylic acid body wash every day?
Yes, it is okay to use a salicylic acid body wash every day. However, ideally, it is recommended to use it thrice a week for oily and combination skin for the best results. Salicylic acid is drying in nature; so, people with dry and sensitive skin must avoid using this acid as far as possible.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divaka, the author of this article, is a skincare enthusiast and is often found helping her readers purchase the right skincare products through her articles. She embarked on a journey to make a list of the best salicylic acid body washes with the help of extensive research. These listed items will treat your breakouts and give you super flawless skin.
Read full bio of Dr. Danielle Marr Collins
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Swathi E
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