Fact: When it comes to dealing with acne, there's no one-size-fits-all. After all, it's caused by so many factors—from excess oil production to hormones! However, a good place to start is to find a cleanser that works for you. Cleansers may not linger on your skin longer than moisturizers or serums do, but they play a big role in managing your acne. They help clear clogged pores to minimize breakouts.
If you're feeling overwhelmed with all the options you have, you can look for facial washes with this powerhouse, blemish-busting ingredient: Salicylic acid!
What exactly is salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is an exfoliating ingredient. It's a type of BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that deeply penetrates the skin and dissolves oil, dirt, and other gunk, which may lead to breakouts. It also helps reduce blackheads and whiteheads. TLDR, it's an enemy of acne!
Ahead, we listed down some of the best salicylic acid cleansers that are worth adding to your cart:
(Ed's note: To prevent irritations or breakouts, it's always best to slowly introduce new products into your routine. Do a patch test first or use it in moderation until you know your skin can take it.)
10 Salicylic Acid Cleansers To Try For Clear Skin
1. CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser
TikTok beauty influencers like Hyram can't stop raving about this exfoliating cleanser because of how gentle it is. It's formulated with salicylic acid to fight blemishes as well as barrier-restoring ceramides to soften the skin. It's also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores!
Renewing SA Cleanser, P1,570, CERAVE, Watsons
2. The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser
Aside from salicylic acid, this non-drying anti-acne cleanser contains zinc compound, which helps reduce excess oil, a.k.a. another culprit for breakouts.
Salicylic Acid Cleanser, P499, THE INKEY LIST BeautyMNL
3. Dermalogica Foaming Wash
This foaming facial wash effectively dislodges oil and dirt from the pores. It also has tea tree and lavender, which help soothe angry zits and calm redness. P.S. You can also use it on your body to get rid of bacne!
Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash, P1,150, DERMALOGICS, Rustan's The Beauty Source
4. Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser
If you like using a cleanser that turns into a rich, creamy lather, this one's for you! It helps treat and prevent breakouts, thanks to salicylic acid. It also has green tea extract that helps calm irritations.
Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser, P1,650, MURAD, Rustan's The Beauty Source
5. Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser
This deep-cleansing facial wash is a bestseller and for good reason. It has acne-fighting ingredients that break down excess oil and impurities to tackle congestion while soothing the skin with its blend of aloe vera, chamomile, and thyme.
Acne Facial Cleanser, P1,150, MARIO BADESCU, Rustan's The Beauty Source
6. Luxe Organix AHA-BHA Miracle Solutions Facial Cleanser
Say goodbye to post-acne marks with this powerhouse gel cleanser. Apart from salicylic acid, it's loaded with other exfoliating ingredients such as glycolic acid and lactic acid. It also has niacinamide that helps fade dark spots.
AHA-BHA Miracle Solutions Facial Cleanser, P289, LUXE ORGANIX, SM Store
7. Cosrx Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
Made with 0.9% salicylic acid, this foamy cleanser's mild formula is safe, even for sensitive skin.
Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser, P499, COSRX, BeautyMNL
8. Oxecure pH 5.5 Gentle Cleanser
Formulated with glycerin and vitamin E, this face and body cleanser dissolves oil, dirt, and makeup without being harsh on the skin. It also contains mangosteen extract that reduces the accumulation of bacteria.
pH 5.5 Gentle Cleanser, P359, OXECURE, Oxecure
9. Celeteque Acne Cleansing Gel
A derm-approved find, this sulfate-free cleanser soothes existing zits while keeping the skin hydrated.
Acne Cleansing Gel, P270, CELETEQUE, Celeteque
10. iWhite Korea Acne+Facial Wash
If you're looking for an affordable acne-fighting cleanser, this one from iWhite Korea is worth a try. Salicylic acid, tea tree, and allantoin work together to keep the skin clear and smooth!
Acne+Facial Wash, P219, IWHITE KOREA, BeautyMNL
*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Preview.ph editors.
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