People who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should not use salicylic acid products. So we know that salicylic acid is great to treat acne, but did I mention that it has a ton of other insane benefits, too? These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. and salicylic acid for anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, pore-refining, and acne-reducing activity," says Chiu. When using a salicylic acid cleanser, it is important to let your skin be the guide, explains Dr. Loren Krueger, MD, Dermatologist and Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Emory University. People with sensitive skin usually dont tolerate high concentrations of salicylic acid very well, but they still want to keep their complexions clear and breakouts to a minimum. There is one product that could help across the board, and that's a salicylic acid cleanser. The wipes work to degrease and exfoliate your skin whichremoves dead skin cells and dirt. Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid | Uses: Cleansing face, treating acne, exfoliating face | Fragrance: None, Salicylic acid and glycolic acid combination cleans deep in the pores. love it. According to Dr. Chiu, the salicylic acid in the cleanserworks to reduce your oil and sebum, while theaddition ofgrape polyphenols and essential oils works to reduce inflammation. Both Chang and Imahiyerobo-Ip picked CeraVe's cleanser as another option. (With the help of a few pros, of course.). Another one of the OG salicylic acid face washesis none other than the CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser. If you're somebody who really likes to feel the effects of your skincare "working," the Murad SA cleanser starts as a gel formula and turns into a rich lather once massaged into the skin. Dr. Chiu recommends this for those with combination skin because it"reduces acne breakouts with salicylic acid, and addresses post-inflammatory pigmentation with azelaic acid," but the"ingredients like glycerin and coconut oil soothe less oily areas of the skin," she says. Because, surprise: I, too, am an acne hater! Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. We chose this face wash from La Roche-Possay as our top pick because it's fragrance-free and dermatologist-approved. Concentration of SA:the exact percentage is not available, but the formulation is gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin. SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel is a cleanser that combines the powers of salicylic acid, lipo-hydroxy acid LHA, and glycolic acid to not only remove impurities from the skin, but also encourage cell renewal. It will leave you glowy aaaand smelling like a dang treat due to the passion fruit scent and pineapple enzymes. It's most commonly known "for helping clear pores of dirt, reducing acne-causing sebum production at the follicular level, and dissolving dead skin cells," says Dr. Annie Chiu, MD, Board Certified Dermatologist and Founder of The Derm Institute in Manhattan Beach. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, This Entire Skincare Routine is Under $45, This Boho-Stitch Lemonade Braid Is So Sweet. But don't fear, this body cleanser is here! It's Chang's pick too. How to Clear Your Skin With a Salicylic Acid Cleanser: 15 Best Products and Tips From Dermatologists, Caudalie Vinopure Pore Purifying Gel Cleanser, Tata Harper Clarifying Blemish & Oil Control Cleanser, TULA Skincare Keep it Clear Acne Foam Cleanser, The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Acne + Pore Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash. Siena Gagliano is a contributing editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers beauty in the makeup, skin, and hair spaces. If you need a higher dosage for specific concerns, it can be prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist under their supervision and care. When these changes are seen, it is a sign that the medication is of good quality and that it is working successfully. But be patient because it can take a few weeks to show up on the skin. I hear ya oh, boy do I hear ya. Each product is hand-selected by our editors because we think you'll Be careful not to overuse salicylic acid face wash products, as they can excessively dry out and irritate the skin. While scientists don't know the exact mechanism of action, Icelandic kelp is thought to work by detoxifying the skin and soothing inflammation, while cylindrica seed oil is thought to help repair the lipid barrier to prevent dryness. Although cleansers are a great way to incorporate salicylic acid or beta-hydroxy acids into your skincare routine, other helpful options include toners, peel pads, and serums. Pretty impressive, right?! But do you know the acne hater of all haters? The hardworking ingredient can also be used as a peeling agent for acne vulgaris, melasma, photodamage, sunspots, psoriasis, and warts. The end result is a bright and even skin tone. This foaming cleanser targets existing breakouts and prevents future ones. The oil-free formula is supplemented with soothing aloe and chamomile extracts to help calm any potential irritation and redness. The dermatologist-approved face wash is beloved by users of all ages due to its ability to address a wide variety of issues, including milia, blackheads, whiteheads, and large pores. Next up,Derms Explain How to Keep Pores Clear in the Summer Despite Sweat and Sunscreen. Marisa K. Garshick, M.D., board-certified dermatologist. Those. Active Ingredients: AHA, glycolic acid, salicylic acid | Uses: Cleansing face, treating acne | Fragrance: None, Contains fragrance, which may be irritating. This cleanser is among one of the gentlest formulas in the bunch, explains Dr. Chiu. Infused with 2% salicylic acid, Le Roche-Posay's Cleanser works to fight breakouts without drying out the skin. The cleanser is safe and effective for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. Thats significantly different than the low 2% or less concentration of salicylic acid usually found in the over-the-counter face wash. And, it is being washed off right away. If you're dealing withacne and breakouts, you'll try anything to clear up your skin. Reviewers love the lather it creates, as well as the soft, fresh-faced feeling it leaves behind. Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid, glycolic acid | Uses: Cleansing face, treating acne | Fragrance: None, Aloe and chamomile extracts help calm irritation, Many ingredients are not natural or plant-derived. Although a lot of us may be used to throwing on, lathering up, and immediately rinsing a cleanser off, Dr. Burgess has a better recommendation to get the full effect of the salicylic acid cleanser. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne and Redness Facial Cleanser, What to Look for in a Salicylic Acid Face Wash. How often should I use salicylic acid products? cleanser pore contains essential deep natural wash face salicylic acid oils residues shrink excess dirt highly effective ingredients remove Daily Care Foaming Acne Face Wash, Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, Two-Pack, Derms Explain How to Keep Pores Clear in the Summer Despite Sweat and Sunscreen. It unclogs pores, soothes inflammation, reduces redness, and fortifies pH levels. Not only that, it is a great choice for a multitude of skin types, including sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin, whereit works to target acne, blackheads, and whiteheads, all while being oil-free. The formula reaches deep into pores to remove acne-causing bacteria and impurities while providing the proper balance of hydration for the skin to heal and restore. Its best to consult with your dermatologist and ob/gyn to determine safe acne treatment during pregnancy. Chang also recommends salicylic acid cleansers to her patients who have psoriasis, photodamage, and hyperpigmentation. This cleanser deep-cleans your pores and exfoliates without irritating the skin. The formula includesazelaic acid that works to fade acne scars and dark spots. Due to sun sensitivity, sun protection is recommended when using salicylic acid on sun-exposed skin, says Dr. Beckman. For a budget buy, we recommend Clean & Clear's Advantage Acne 3in1 Foam Wash. Orit Markowtiz, Board-Certified Dermatologist and Founder of OptiSkin in New York City. The extremely affordable price point makes it a great option for those looking for a tried-and-true product without spending a ridic amount of $$. Wait, Do Cellulite Creams Really Do Anything? acne face himalaya clarina gel wash anti pros Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid from willow bark | Uses: Cleansing face and body, treating acne | Fragrance: Yes, natural oils, Contains both salicylic acid and glycolic acid. Additional reporting to this story by Jennifer Nied. Our free guide provides expert tips to help you take control. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. Skin will become smoother as well due to exfoliation. However, I would be remiss not to mention that you shouldn't start droppin' your hard-earned pennies on any salicylic acid cleansers just yet. Dealing with acne can be frustrating. The dermatologist-tested scrub is non-comedogenic, and it doesnt contain any chemicals like parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances. It contains a 2% salicylic acid concentration naturally sourced from willow bark extract, as well as ground walnut shell for both chemical and mechanical exfoliation. Salicylic acid use can make skin more photosensitive, so wearing SPF daily is a must. Do not apply to areas of irritated skin, inflamed skin, or to open wounds. It gives you a very deep, thorough cleanse and helps to also brighten and soothe dull, rough skin," Del Campo says. When you do find a product that works, well,it's a miracle, and you'll use every last drop and then reorder it in bulk. Luckily for those with sensitive or drier skin, the "ingredients like witch hazel and aloe make the wipes not overly drying," she says. This drugstore favorite is gentle on skin but tough on breakouts. If you're a beauty fanatic like moi, then you probably know that makeup remover wipes aren't necessarily the greatest for your skin, and you should opt for a cleanser instead. If you struggle with redness, thanks to, you know, acne (no surprise there), this clarifying cleanser by Tata Harper is another great clean choice. This 100% vegetarian scrub is a botanically-powered way to up the exfoliation ante on your typical salicylic acid face wash. We also spoke with experts, including Dr. Garshick. "I would recommend starting the use of a salicylic acid cleanser either every other morning or each morning," Krueger explains that using the cleanser too frequently at the beginning of your treatment can potentially lead to irritation. Be sure to wear sunscreen when using salicylic acid cleansers, as your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight." Wear plenty of sunscreen when using salicylic face washes because they may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. The best thing about this salicylic acid cleanser is that it can be used on virtually any type of skinoily, normal, and combination. Its oil-free, non-comedogenic, and powered by a 2% salicylic acid concentration that is safe to use daily. Meanwhile, they are gentle enough to minimize irritation and redness. Technically salicylic acid is considered unsafe for use in pregnancy. And for the final, and probably most important, tip when it comes to using a salicylic acid cleanser: If you have questions or concerns before, while, or after using the product, the very best thing you can do is speak. It also helps to exfoliate dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, which also contributes to the clogging of pores and dullness of the skin," says Jordan C. Carqueville, M.D., a leading board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist. )Not only does the Baddie Cleanse fight body acne with active ingredients such asglycolic acid, white willow bark, and lactic acid, but the salicylic acid works to clear up those clogged pores. Salicylic acid can easily throw off your skins hydration balance, resulting in dryness, redness, and irritation, and other uncomfortable side effects. Well, my friends, allow me to introduce you to Salicylic Acid the legendary active ingredient whose purpose revolves around destroying those pesky little pimples. Sometimes, finding the right face wash requires a bit of trial and error, but if you start with these products, you probably wont have to try many more. Skin disorder treatments (such as psoriasis and ichthyosis). Imahiyerobo-Ip says this lightweight foaming cleanser gently exfoliates without excessively stripping the skin. Mission activated: Destroy. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. The most common strength percentage in face washes will be 2%.". If youre in the market for a quick and easy cleansing pad that will cater to oily and acne-prone skin, you cant go wrong with this classic pick from Oxy. For oily, acne-prone, and combination skin, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Acne Cleanser (view at Dermstore) is an excellent choice at an affordable price. It can help improve mild acne without irritating sensitive skin.". Users love how it tackles acne, whiteheads, blackheads, and large pores all in one formula. It also contains other inflammation-fighting ingredientssuch as tea tree oil and willow bark. "Sensitive or dry skin types are often not able to tolerate salicylic acid ingredients due to enhanced irritation or dehydration of the skin," says Dr. Carqueville. Who What Wear is part of Future US LLC, an international media group and leading digital publisher. When it comes to having a clear complexion, salicylic acid is a must-have. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Tula's Keep it Clear Acne Foam Cleanser penetrates your skin with 2% of salicylic acid to treat acne and prevent pimples from reappearing. So without further ado, people ~over acne~ everywhere, let's take a trip back to Chemistry 101. Then, depending on your skin type, she continues, you usually can choose between 0.5%, 1%, or 2% salicylic acid concentration. "It exfoliates and brightens skin complexion as well as de-clogs pores to prevent blackheads, whiteheads, and subsequent acne breakouts. This cleanser uses salicylic and lactic acid from willow bark while "balancing with ingredients, like honey and chlorella, to soothe redness for those with acne," says Dr. Chiu. cosrx salicylic exfoliating The product does not have any physical exfoliants and instead "utilizes ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to smooth and soften skin.". "If you are tolerating well at once daily yet have room for improvement in your skin, you can bounce it up to twice daily," she says. Those with more oily skin may prefer more of a gel based cleanser or a higher concentration of salicylic acid, while those with more sensitive skin may require a cleanser that is also hydrating and more gentle on the skin. It removes impurities from your skin with oat- and amino acid-based surfactants while salicylic acid derived from white willow bark purifies pores and reduces irritation to prevent breakouts. Murad's acne-fighting cleanser contains time-released medication that works over the course of the dayto prevent breakouts. It contains 0.5% of salicylic acid, which is just enough to provide the cleansing and exfoliating benefits you want without the dryness and agitation you dont. If you're committed to clean beauty (hey,go you), this purifying gel cleanser is vegan and an incredibly gentle option for those with sensitive skin. Verywell Health content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. As a result, it is important to not overdo it and be sure to find one that is good for your skin type. Cosmopolitan participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Tula is known for its signature probiotic extract ingredients that "promote the skin's natural balance," soif you think that the high percentage of SA will dry you out, think again! Although the exact percentage is not available, if you have sensitive or dry skin, you should opt fortheHanskin Cleansing Oil. Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel, Best for Dry Skin: If this leaves you curious to learn more, we break down literally everything you may still be wondering about salicylic acid and the science behind it here. The 8 Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin of 2022, The 9 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin, According to Dermatologists, Why Cosmetics Might Be Causing Your Breakouts. It also acts as an exfoliant and helps to get rid of dead skin cells to help improve the tone and texture of the skin. When choosing a product, Del Campo recommends matching the specific products to your skin type and looking at the concentration and additional ingredients. Imahiyerobo-Ip recommends this cleanser for sensitive, acne-prone skin: "It has a lower concentration of salicylic acid and is fragrance-free. Oxy Daily Defense Cleansing Pads Maximum Strength, Best Scrub: With 2% salicylic acid, this foaming cleanser clears pores and dead skin cells and removes dirt and makeup. It has a zinc compound, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and allantoin, which soothes irritation and stimulates new tissue growth. "You want to suds it up, put it on the skin, and let it sit on there for maybe a minute or two. These products help to improve skin turnover and to dissolve the sebum that is clogging pores." The best part? The cleanser "combines lipo hydroxy acid, glycolic acid. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. According to Chiu, the cleanser dries out pimples while soothing the skin due to the addition of aloe and chamomile. You can opt-out at any time. The formula also includes Icelandic kelp. "It also acts as an exfoliant and helps to get rid of dead skin cells to help improve the tone and texture of the skin. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid | Uses: Cleansing face, treating acne, calming irritation/redness | Fragrance: Yes. These dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free pads are also very convenient for folks who are always on-the-go. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a less intense cleanser with 0.5% to 1% salicylic acid. Clean & Clear Advantage Acne 3in1 Foam Wash, Best for Sensitive Skin: (Just one more reason acne is the literal WOAT.) This cleanser ispacked with nourishing shea butter, peppermint, and eucalyptus oils. Salicylic acid works by reducing oil and sebum on the skin. However, these Obagi medicated wipes are an excellent choice for those looking to cure their acne. Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. December 2014:9. doi:10.2147/ccid.s75439, The 10 Best Salicylic Acid Face Washes to Battle Breakouts. "This type of acne occurs because of poor skin turnover that results in clogged pores. Is Bey's New Song About the Elevator Incident? Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Skin that is free of breakouts, a more refined skin texture, even skin tone, and a brighter appearance. In addition to salicylic acid, this facial cleanser contains calming ingredients like aloe, chamomile, and thyme. If you struggle with acne, cystic acne, or large pores, this cleansing gel could bring you some much-needed relief. Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid from willow bark | Uses: Cleansing face, treating acne | Fragrance: Yes, Also contains ingredients to target wrinkles and signs of aging, Packaging falls short of the cleanser quality. Users with particularly oily skin report that despite its potency, the cleanser is non-drying and non-irritating. Oh, hi, hello! If you are experiencing dryness, apply a gentle, fragrance-free face moisturizer after cleansing. If you thought the product couldn't get any better, you'll be pleased to know that it is soap-free, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free. "As an oil-soluble ingredient that can absorb into the lipid skin layers more readily, it can penetrate deeper into the skin and the pores," explains Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology. This best-selling pore cleansing oil is perfect for those with combination and oily skin who want to use a BHA to treat their acne. This cleanser is packed with yummy jojoba, olive, and fruit oils, such as orange, lemon, and grapefruit, that work together to deep clean the pores. With the addition of salicylic acid, this cleanser acts as a light exfoliant and prevents acne from reoccurring. "Do not ingest salicylic acid or apply excessive amounts of salicylic acid, as increased systemic absorption can lead to salicylate poisoning (presents with symptoms like ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, confusion, and dizziness)," Chang adds. "Make sure to apply moisturizer to the skin after using these products so that the skin doesn't become overly dry or irritated.". If you're no stranger to the horrors of those facial bumps and lumps, you've probably heard of salicylic acid (i.e., serums, masks, creams, gels, toners), but today, we're going to focus on one: the cleanser. The result? Promise. Reviewers swear by this face wash, noting that a little bit goes a long way for a luxurious lather. You've probably gone through your fair share of cleansers, toners, serums, lotions, spot treatments, andzit stickers in your quest tokeep your acneunder control. And the annoying part is what works for your skin might not exactly work for your friend's acne problems. But here's something important to note: You should not use salicylic acid products when you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Board-certified dermatologist Roberta Del Campo, MD, says salicylic acid is best for oily, acne-prone skin, and she recommends staying away from it if you have dry or sensitive skin because it can be very drying and irritating for some people. And don't forget to moisturize after cleansing to keep the skin hydrated. cleanser blackhead blackheads face biore warming scars acne mask anti facial Alba Botanica Acnedote Maximum Strength Face & Body Scrub, Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Take a look at some dermatologist- and editor-recommended cleansers below. This cleanser is ideal for those with oily and acne-prone skin due to the use of time-released salicylic acids.