10 Dermatologist recommended Best Facewashes for Acne-prone skin in Monsoon
By Dr. Preeti Chauhan•June 22, 2023•9 min read
Before I share the 10 best face washes for Acne prone skin with you, let us first understand a little bit about Acne and the types of Acne, its causes, etc.
What is Acne?
Also known as pimples or blemishes, Acne is nothing but a blockage of the oil glands placed near the root of hair follicles. When too much debris and diet accumulates and blocks the gland it becomes clogged and that gives the appearance of blackheads or open comedones. These comedones if not treated may further become infected and cause whiteheads or closed comedones. Furthermore when the infection travels down it causes tiny or large bumps on the surface of the skin called pimples or acne.
What are the causes of Acne?
Normal Hormonal changes
The human body undergoes hormonal changes during teenage, pregnancy or menopause. Theses stages can trigger increased sebum or oil production and thus cause more clogging of the oil glands.
Diet
There is a lot of dispute about what foods trigger acne and what foods don’t. Nevertheless, it is a known fact that a diet rich in fresh fruits vegetables and nuts definitely helps because it is rich in antioxidants and also helps hormone regulation. Some people feel certain foods can aggravate their acne like chocolates, refined flour, sugar and milk.
Diseases
Frequently , people with persistent or severe acne also suffer from diseases like Seborrheic dermatitis , Rosacea , Polycystic Ovaries etc. In case your acne is not responding to home remedies or OTC cleansers and creams, it is time to visit your doctor. Your doctor will check for any underlying disease. Once an underlying cause will be identified, your acne will start responding better.
Genetics
Just like some people are blessed with peaches and cream complexion, so are some cursed with unhealthy skin or sensitive skin. Often people with darker skin seem to have more acne than people with fair skin tone. They are also more likely to get dark spots after the acne goes away.
Acne treatments
Mostly the CTM routine of Cleansing , Toning ( sometimes not so crucial) and Moisturizing your face twice a day works on acne. Less frequently acne may need medicated creams or oral medicines , Homeopathy is a gentle and effective option. Very bad acne with scarring will need laser treatments or surgery.
Dermatologist have formulated this face wash thus making it one of the best face washes for Acne prone skin . The O3 Lightening and calming foaming face cleanser helps regulate moisture, lightens skin tone, and calms irritated skin. It is suitable for all skin types. Additionally, the added peptides , improve skin’s resistance to exposure to the environment and restores epidermal balance. Regular use gives bright and clear skin.
The Kaya Acne Free Purifying face cleanser is one of the best face washes for acne prone skin. It contains salicylic acid which helps on exfoliating the skin and keeping it free from build up of debris that may clog the pores. Some people may find it drying or irritating because of the salicylic acid . In that case you should limit the use to alternate days only and not leave it on the skin for more than 10 seconds. Check out the price HERE
Bioderma is a French skincare brand famous for highly effective but gentle skin care products suitable for even most sensitive skin. It is one of the best face washes for Acne prone oily skin. They have a SEBIUM range of products that have active ingredients for fighting acne and a SENSIBIO range that is suitable for sensitive skin. Acne prone skin is often irritated specially if your are using any other acne treatments like retinoids or antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide etc. The Bioderma Sebium Gel moussant is a foaming face wash that gently cleans the skin , removes make up too without causing dryness.
It containing zinc sulphate and copper sulphate , which helps in healing skin and fighting acne but maintains the skin pH.
CeraVe is an American skin care brand and is something your dermatologist would recommend. It uses a Multivesicular Emulsion (MVE) technology in their products which releases key ingredients slowly over time, helping to hydrate and nourish skin. Its three essential ceramides help to repair, restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. The CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser has 2% Salicyclic acid and oil absorbing technology which make sit one of the best facewashes for acne prone and oily skin. Its Gel-to-foam formula cleanses deeply removing make up and oil.
I recommend using this only once daily at night and pairing it with CeraVe Hydrating Facial cleanser in the morning for best results.
It is on the pricier side but the results absolutely justify the price.
The Body shop is an English brand known for its ethically sourced vegan and cruelty free products. TBS Tea Tree Face cleanser is its most sold product with one bottle sold every 13 seconds. Naturally, it had to be on my list of the best face washes for acne prone oily skin care specially in monsoons. It is non-drying and suits normal to oily skin.
Word of caution – never use hot water for washing your face when using this facial wash. You may leave the face wash for 20 seconds and then rinse well. Advised to use twice daily and use with the Tea tree mattifying toner.
Manufactured by Torrent Pharma, AHAglow is a dermatologist recommended product and is easily the best face wash for acne prone skin. It is affordable and effective in reducing outbreaks. Formulated with Glycolic acid, it has an added benefit of reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture. It also unblocks the pores. Like most acne fighting products this can cause skin dryness.
It is a gel based foaming cleanser with aloe vera and vitamin E for soothing skin.
I do not recommend it to be used more than once a day and using at night is best.
Founded by a Doctor , Sebamed is a German Skincare brand that is known for its skin friendly pH balanced products. The Sebamed Clear face cleansing foam is one of the best face washes for acne prone skin because it has powerful antimicrobial agent that work even on active acne and help in treating them. For best results leave it on the skin for 3 minutes. The skin may feel a bit dry despite the pH balance claim because of the powerful ingredients. I recommend using a moisturizer if your skin feels dry.
This is another British Skin care brand which is known for its cruelty free , vegan skin care products, they call it kind beauty . It is a gel face wash and removes oil grease and make up thus keeping the pores clean. It does not cause any dryness or cause flare ups. Simple micellar Facial gel wash does not cure acne but helps in keeping skin healthy and can be used with acne creams and acne treatments.
I personally recommend this one , using this is like having a double cleanse. It is mild and does not make the skin feel stretchy or irritated. Suitable for teens as well as adults. Another perk is that this one is more pocket friendly.
Neutrogena is an American brand famous for its high qualify , science backed skin products. This face wash contains 2% Salicyclic acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract as active ingredients to unclog pores, soothe skin and reduce acne. It may not suit sensitive skin so I suggest to use sparingly , once a day or alternate days.
Formulated with a brand-new skin-cleansing formula , Avene Cleansing gel promises to remove skin damaging pollutants, shine, and sebum for a long time.
Cleanance Cleansing Gel is a Soap-free gel cleanser that helps to purify and mattify the facial skin It gently removes dirt, pollution particles, and makeup that can clog pores, as well as too much sebum that can lead to breakouts, leaving the face clear and youthful. It has Monolaurin to reduces excess oil. Additionally Avène Thermal Spring Water and Zinc gluconate help to soothe and heal. It is tolerated well and is not harsh making it one of the best face washes for acne prone oily skin. Avene has a great range of complete acne care , check my review of the Avene Tricneal Expert Soin Emulsion
Now that our list of 10 best face washes for Acne prone oily skin is complete , I am sure you can confidently slay monsoon skin care and have clear and bright skin in the rainy weather too. Finally, do not forget to wear a sunscreen with high SPF (>30) before stepping out and hydrate often.
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31 responses to “10 Dermatologist recommended Best Facewashes for Acne-prone skin in Monsoon”
While I don’t have acne, I do have very sensitive skin. I have used Bioderma and Seba Med products. They are quite good. The rest of the brands are new for me.
I used to have severe acne during my teenage days and now before my periods only which gives a clear indication that its coming even if I forget the dates. But I am not keen towards using OTC facewashes for acne treatments as my go to solution is homemade neem paste and raw sandal paste. It cures the problem natural giving a glowing skin.
My 14 year old daughter has terrible acne n pimples… I never had even one during my teenage n neither did my siblings. Can she use any of these products Preeti? From the descriptions, ingredients etc, Seba med n the body shop one look the safest considering her age… but do let me know. Pls ping me on whatsapp(# in the blogaberry group).
When we were younger, we used to have a concoction of chirata and neem to purify the blood. It was very bitter but we sisters did not have pimples. These days there are so many options.
I have never faced acne problem but I have extremely sensitive skin. I’ve used Bioderma, Neutrogena, and Seba Med products. They’re pretty good. Other brands mentioned here are new to me.
I did have acne back in my late teens but mom’s concoction worked wonders. I have friends with teens struggling with acne. Will surely share this with them.
The post has fine recomendations. Can you suggest sunscreen for combination skin?. And also if you can recommend shampoo for thin wavy it would be of great help.
Cetaphil sunscreen is great for Combination skin, you may also try Foxtale mattifying sunscreen it is moisturizing but matte. Thin wavy hair needs a shampoo that adds volume and is sulphate and silicone free. The choice of shampoo will depend more on your scalp type – oily or dry. I suggest a shampoo suitable to your scalp concerns and then use a leave in conditioner like Kinky Curly or Tony and Guy are good options.
Thankfully i never had a acne problem growing up. But with perimenopause now I find a little boil here & there. Seba med i have heard glowing recommendations of from many people.
I have tried all of these except for Ahaglow
.guess they don’t do influencer marketing or I haven’t collaborated with them (hahaha 😂)
I tend to get acne during ovulatory time. So these facewashes are a saviour. I find the salicylic acid ones very effective. My favourite is the Dermaco one. Have you tried it?
Thank you for sharing your expertise on dermatologist-recommended facewashes for acne-prone skin during the monsoon season. Your comprehensive list provides valuable options for those dealing with acne and will surely help them make informed choices. Great work!
While there are ample choices in cosmetics range these days which one will be a perfect fit is hard to judge. But ofcourse plant based products are always a safe choice.
Pre-post Monsoon is the time when humidity levels are high and we have these cute little monsters popping on our faces. Thanks for sharing natural remedies as well as facewash to minimize the risk.
Couple of months back i had faced severe acne issue because of hormonal imbalance and a plant based UV acne cream and face wash came to my rescue. Thanks for sharing a well curated list.
Thanks for sharing these 10 dermatologist recommended facewashes for people with acne prone skin. Thankfully, I have been fortunate so far as I have not experienced extreme acne, they come and go quickly. I will share it with my friend, she will find it helpful to choose the right facewash for her.
I have acne prone skin as my skin is oily! I am using Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash. With its oil-free formula, it effectively cleanses and treats breakouts without leaving a greasy residue. I am glad that it is a part of my skin care routine, especially in these monsoons.
Thankfully i never faced acne problem but I have sensitive skin. I’ve used Bioderma, Neutrogena, and Seba Med products. They’re pretty good. Will try others
Acne is an issue that we have all faced and face from time to time. A good diet is really useful in keeping acne at bay. However, when they do erupt, good facewashes are required. I prefer the ones that are high on natural ingredients. The ones you have mentioned are really good and effective ones.
I have used almost all these facewashes, but stick to Simple, Neutrogena, and Sebamed. These three suit my skin the best, managing the oily part and keeping right hydration.
It was good to learn about so many different facewashes, one doesnt get to know what is out there and what is good, until one comes across an article like yours which gives a frank input on what it is, what its for and how to use it, actually.
Acne can be troublesome if not treated well with diet and face hygiene. I have used Sebamed and and trust on it blindly now. Your post gives detailed information on how to deal with acne, surely many teenager’s will find it helpful.
These are very good recommendations. I love the Neutrogena Facewash because it is very light and gentle. Acne is such a trouble in hot and humid weather.
While I don’t have acne, I do have very sensitive skin. I have used Bioderma and Seba Med products. They are quite good. The rest of the brands are new for me.
I used to have severe acne during my teenage days and now before my periods only which gives a clear indication that its coming even if I forget the dates. But I am not keen towards using OTC facewashes for acne treatments as my go to solution is homemade neem paste and raw sandal paste. It cures the problem natural giving a glowing skin.
My 14 year old daughter has terrible acne n pimples… I never had even one during my teenage n neither did my siblings. Can she use any of these products Preeti? From the descriptions, ingredients etc, Seba med n the body shop one look the safest considering her age… but do let me know. Pls ping me on whatsapp(# in the blogaberry group).
When we were younger, we used to have a concoction of chirata and neem to purify the blood. It was very bitter but we sisters did not have pimples. These days there are so many options.
So many options you have shared. Those who have pimples should follow your advice and try these facewashes
Thankfully I don’t have acne but my son has developed lots of teenage acne of late. Hope these work on normal acne as well? Will give some a try.
I have never faced acne problem but I have extremely sensitive skin. I’ve used Bioderma, Neutrogena, and Seba Med products. They’re pretty good. Other brands mentioned here are new to me.
I like the way you have put up the step by step details and then shared what is good to use, will keep it handy when someone asks for this.
I did have acne back in my late teens but mom’s concoction worked wonders. I have friends with teens struggling with acne. Will surely share this with them.
The post has fine recomendations. Can you suggest sunscreen for combination skin?. And also if you can recommend shampoo for thin wavy it would be of great help.
Cetaphil sunscreen is great for Combination skin, you may also try Foxtale mattifying sunscreen it is moisturizing but matte. Thin wavy hair needs a shampoo that adds volume and is sulphate and silicone free. The choice of shampoo will depend more on your scalp type – oily or dry. I suggest a shampoo suitable to your scalp concerns and then use a leave in conditioner like Kinky Curly or Tony and Guy are good options.
Thanks for the recommendation. have made a note. With monsoon just peeking in–this is the best time for a post like this.
Thankfully i never had a acne problem growing up. But with perimenopause now I find a little boil here & there. Seba med i have heard glowing recommendations of from many people.
Never had much acne, touch wood. But these cleansers are amazing recommendations! Will definitely check them out in detail and try out a couple.
You are blessed!
I have tried all of these except for Ahaglow
.guess they don’t do influencer marketing or I haven’t collaborated with them (hahaha 😂)
I tend to get acne during ovulatory time. So these facewashes are a saviour. I find the salicylic acid ones very effective. My favourite is the Dermaco one. Have you tried it?
I haven’t tried Derma co one as I got good results with these. My skin is feeling happy nowadays.
Thank you for sharing your expertise on dermatologist-recommended facewashes for acne-prone skin during the monsoon season. Your comprehensive list provides valuable options for those dealing with acne and will surely help them make informed choices. Great work!
While there are ample choices in cosmetics range these days which one will be a perfect fit is hard to judge. But ofcourse plant based products are always a safe choice.
Pre-post Monsoon is the time when humidity levels are high and we have these cute little monsters popping on our faces. Thanks for sharing natural remedies as well as facewash to minimize the risk.
Couple of months back i had faced severe acne issue because of hormonal imbalance and a plant based UV acne cream and face wash came to my rescue. Thanks for sharing a well curated list.
Thanks for sharing these 10 dermatologist recommended facewashes for people with acne prone skin. Thankfully, I have been fortunate so far as I have not experienced extreme acne, they come and go quickly. I will share it with my friend, she will find it helpful to choose the right facewash for her.
I have acne prone skin as my skin is oily! I am using Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash. With its oil-free formula, it effectively cleanses and treats breakouts without leaving a greasy residue. I am glad that it is a part of my skin care routine, especially in these monsoons.
Thankfully i never faced acne problem but I have sensitive skin. I’ve used Bioderma, Neutrogena, and Seba Med products. They’re pretty good. Will try others
I say you are blessed if you have healthy skin and have found a product that works for you.
All good recommendations. I’m currently using the Neutrogena one myself.
Acne is an issue that we have all faced and face from time to time. A good diet is really useful in keeping acne at bay. However, when they do erupt, good facewashes are required. I prefer the ones that are high on natural ingredients. The ones you have mentioned are really good and effective ones.
I have used almost all these facewashes, but stick to Simple, Neutrogena, and Sebamed. These three suit my skin the best, managing the oily part and keeping right hydration.
It was good to learn about so many different facewashes, one doesnt get to know what is out there and what is good, until one comes across an article like yours which gives a frank input on what it is, what its for and how to use it, actually.
Acne can be troublesome if not treated well with diet and face hygiene. I have used Sebamed and and trust on it blindly now. Your post gives detailed information on how to deal with acne, surely many teenager’s will find it helpful.
These are very good recommendations. I love the Neutrogena Facewash because it is very light and gentle. Acne is such a trouble in hot and humid weather.