If you’re on the lookout for the best body washes for acne-prone skin, you’re in the right place. Here, we list all the best body washes that you can get your hands on to get clean and clear skin by preventing acne and treating the ones that you may already have.
Acne can develop on any part of the body where you have pores and sebaceous glands. This means you can get acne anywhere in your body, though some parts of the body are more likely to develop acne than others. The good thing is acne can be treated with over-the-counter and even drugstore brands. The challenge actually lies in finding the products that work with your skin.
Before anything else, know that different ingredients react differently with different skin types. You may not experience the same results that others have had. The trick is to get to know your skin better.
Best Body Washes & Soaps for Acne Prone Skin
Humane Face & Body Acne Wash
The 10% benzoyl peroxide content added to this might be enough to scare away those with sensitive skin. But if you have normal skin, there’s no reason why you cannot try out the Humane Acne Treatment Body/Face Wash.
The high acne-fighting ingredient does make the skin dry. That’s what products for acne prone skin are supposed to do. Plus, dry skin is nothing that a good moisturizer can’t fix.
The makers of this body wash recommend it to those suffering from moderate to severe acne. You can use it for a treatment period of up to 3 months. It’s not a quick fix, mind you. So you have to be prepared to include this in your daily skincare routine.
But how does it treat acne? By killing bacteria and contributing to preventing further breakouts. What’s also worth noting here is that it’s a non-foaming wash. So the lotion absorbs very quickly.
There are no animal products, artificial fragrances, SLS, and parabens. It’s a cruelty-free product that you can use for your back, body, and face.
Puracy Natural Body Wash
The problem with most acne-fighting body and facial wash products is that they cause your skin to get dry and flaky. And if you’ve battled with acne for a long time, you probably already know that severely dry skin gives rise to acne too.
The current wonder by Puracy is made with natural ingredients. These moisturize, cleanse, and leave the skin feeling fresh and smelling sweet. It lathers quite well. So a 16-ounce bottle lasts up to two months even with daily use. It can be used as a facial wash and as a shampoo. And not just that, this natural body wash is suitable for kids and pets as well.
It’s brought into existence by doctors after all. No matter your skin type. No matter your gender. The product removes impurities and enhances hydration. Leaving the skin clean, soft, and crisp.
However, the pump of the bottle is not all that easy or smooth to use.
Aspen Kay Naturals Dead Sea Mud Soap Bar
The Dead Sea has been a source of many holy-grail products – from mud masks and salt scrubs to sea salt shampoos. This Aspen Kay Naturals Dead Sea Mud Soap Bar hails from Israel. And it’s one of the most well-reviewed mud soap bars anywhere in the world.
Dead Sea mud actually has natural acne-fighting properties. And this organic soap mixes such acne-fighting ingredient with a wonderful combination of moisturizing oils and essential oils. To provide effective relief from acne irritation and even prevent future breakouts.
The soap bar works on all skin types. You can use it as shaving soap, body soap, and/or face soap. It helps in treating skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
And here comes the best part. The product is naturally scented. It is organic, after all. So expect your olfactory senses to savor the therapeutic fragrances of eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemongrass.
You just have to be a little patient. Cause the excellent detoxification action brought about encourages breakouts initially. It’s like your skin is breaking in the effects of the soap bar.
TheraTree Tea Tree Oil Soap with Neem Oil
Tea tree oil is a known combatant against acne. And when paired with neem oil, it does a much better job. Just like tea tree oil, neem oil is also an anti-bacterial. It offers exceptional anti-inflammation properties. That goes a long way when it comes to calming the skin and reducing the redness caused by acne.
As TheraTree’s answer to acne, this body and face wash is meant for treatment and prevention. For acne present on your face, back and chest. It also helps with body and foot odor. Thanks to the addition of mint essential oil. This ingredient also soothes skin discomfort.
Furthermore, the foaming action is rich and the liquid solution concentrated. Both characteristics here mean only one thing. And that is a small amount is enough for one application.
But let’s address the elephant in the room. Tea tree oil-infused skincare products are not suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer With Spf 30
It’s not a body wash, I know. Nevertheless, the product caught my attention. It’s very popular as the best moisturizer for post-acne treatment. Cause treatments for moderate to severe acne also tend to be moderately or severely drying. So at such times, there is a need for a good after-treatment moisturizer.
Cetaphil’s Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer not only keeps the skin hydrated. It also controls oil levels. So your skin doesn’t get either too dry or too oily. It also protects the skin against the sun’s harmful rays.
On top of that, the moisturizer is plenty skin-friendly. Meaning you can use it on your face without worrying about the after-effects.
No artificial fragrances, no parabens. The ability to clog pores is also nonexistent here. You might also like to know that Oleosome technology is used for the formulation of the moisturizer. This employs minimal filters for greater hydration and less irritation.
You’d expect a product like this to cause breakouts. Now the Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer doesn’t do that, fortunately. But, unfortunately, it does make the surface of your skin look shiny.
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap
What makes this work against acne is the tea tree oil. But the additional combination of olive, coconut and hemp oil is also what makes it work like magic. Particularly on inflamed and dry patches of skin!
The liquid soap is gentle enough on the skin. Even so, I would advise you to dilute it with a bit of water. And here’s something shocking. You can also use it as a general household cleaner as well.
What’s also nice to know is that the product is cruelty-free, vegan, eco-friendly and completely biodegradable too. Even the bottle is made from 100% recycled plastic. So you get access to clear, hydrated skin without the guilt factor.
You are more likely to continue using this liquid soap once you try it. That’s because it does eliminate acne. And also because you only have to take a tiny dime for a single application. But don’t forget to dilute it with water. Since the pH level is above 9, it has the ability to give rise to a burning sensation.
Dead Sea Salicylic Acid Sulfur Soap Bar
Salicylic acid is another ingredient you might be familiar with. If you have been fighting acne for a long time. However, sulfur is the main ingredient in this soap bar. Sulfur for acne treatment has been used in many forms throughout the years. And luckily, sulfur in skincare doesn’t smell as bad as it used to.
But SAL3’s Sulfur Soap still has a distinct sulfur smell. Even so, it’s one that doesn’t linger on the skin for too long. For most users though, the smell is completely worth it. As the soap bar is strong enough to treat not only acne but also dandruff. Along with the body, scalp, and foot odor. Even fungi-related skin conditions are dealt with this stuff.
Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
Another big name on the list, the Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash is a mix of anti-acne ingredients and hydrating components. Also combined with fresh and delicious grapefruit after-smell!
This hydrating body wash has salicylic acid, grapefruit extract, and vitamin C. So drying out your acne while also hydrating your skin are results you should look forward to.
I did not know that the body wash had the ability to deal with acne on the back, chest, as well as shoulder. With Microclear technology, the solution gets underneath the skin. Right into the pores to get rid of oil and dirt! Thus, effectively getting to the root of your body acne problems.
Many users have seen results in just a week’s time. Now, this definitely means the product is very effective. There are beads in here that gently exfoliate your skin along the way. So it’s not just the refreshing grapefruit fragrance that attracts attention. But these micro-beads are not such an environmental-friendly choice.
Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash
An effective deep cleanser should be able to unclog your pores, hydrate your skin, exfoliate dead skin cells and get rid of impurities. That’s the promise of the Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash.
It’s got salicylic acid, which takes care of acne and reduces blemishes. This particular ingredient has gentle exfoliating beads. That gets rid of dead skin to reveal healthier, clearer skin underneath.
When cleansing with this wash, it’s not normal for your skin to feel tight and overly dry. If that happens, you could bump down your use to once a day instead of twice daily.
All the while keeping in mind that the deep cleansing wash unclogs your pores like no other skincare product. It does so to purify. And to prevent the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and potential breakouts.
Murad Acne Body Wash
Murad, a brand dedicated to “living younger”, believes that keeping the skin hydrated is the first step to looking and feeling younger. That’s why their acne treatment comes in the form of a hydrating body wash. This uses salicylic acid to target problematic areas. That too without drying the rest of your body.
The body wash can also be used as a part of the brand’s complete skincare regimen. One that is suitable for different skin types.
What’s more? The acne-fighting product has menthol in it as well. This gives the body wash a nice smell and a cool, tingling sensation.
And if you’re inclined toward buying, go ahead for its cruelty-free personality. Just be very careful at the time of dispensing the solution from the bottle. It’s easy to squeeze out too much too quickly.
Mario Badescu A.H.A. Botanical Body Soap
The product is an AHA-based body wash made with papaya and grapefruit extracts. These help a great deal when it comes to brightening the skin. The extracts get rid of dead skin cells to reveal more beautiful skin underneath. It also has ginseng extract. Now this one helps with rejuvenation. And also oatmeal, which exfoliates and calms your skin.
There’s no negating that users swear by its moisturizing and acne-fighting properties. It’s specifically created to combat both body acne and keratosis pilaris. You can even use it to prevent ingrown hairs. That’s how effective this botanical body soap really is.
My only complaint is the lack of a pleasant fragrance. That’s the only thing missing to make the experience complete.
Solimo Pink Grapefruit Clarifying Body Wash
You’d probably noticed by now how many of the best body washes for acne-prone skin actually contain salicylic acid. That’s because it’s a highly effective treatment for the condition. And this body wash from Mountain Falls is no exception.
With 2% salicylic acid on its ingredient list, the foaming wash helps dry out acne. And fight against breakouts. All the while leaving your skin smelling like sweet, pink grapefruit. Much like the Neutrogena grapefruit-infused body wash reviewed earlier.
Needless to say, this one has the same effect and even the same smell. Only the price tag is a bit more affordable. That means Neutrogena is on the expensive side.
The current body wash is dermatologist-tested. So you can expect it to fight your breakouts. No matter where on the body. But sometimes even the most effective products don’t work on all skin types. And the Mountain Falls Body Wash is among them. It’s not made to suit every skin type.
I thought why not give you another 10% benzoyl peroxide equipped product! It’s good to have options, isn’t it? So make way for the Panoxyl Acne Foaming Wash. Without a prescription, it’s the highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide you can get in the market.
Interestingly though, the skincare product contains SLS. This is not great news for those trying to avoid SLS in skincare products. But if your skin doesn’t react badly to this particular ingredient. Then you can continue to use the wash for effective treatment and prevention of acne.
It is a very strong acne-fighting wash that you can use on a daily basis. To clear out your breakouts and blemishes!
Alba Botanica ACNEdote Face & Body Scrub
This gentle anti-acne scrub uses a concentration of 2% salicylic acid. For drying up your mild acne and exfoliating the skin. It also helps to rejuvenate your skin. As it speeds up the process of shedding dead skin cells that make the surface look and feel dull.
The mild, fine scrub is gentle enough to be used on the face as well. And it’s a go-to option for people with combination and oily skin. Doesn’t that feel like a relief to know!
Users also love the fact that it leaves the skin smelling refreshed after a shower. I know you’ll appreciate the use of 100 percent vegetarian ingredients.
As for the unique quality, there is one. And it takes the form of willow bark extract. It comes with anti-aging properties. So I don’t really need to tell you anymore that this face and body scrub gets rid of the most stubborn acne.
Please note that it also includes the walnut shell. This is bad news if you’re allergic to nuts.
DermaHarmony Sulfur and Salicylic Acid Bar Soap
Some skincare ingredients cancel out each other. So there are a few you should never mix under any circumstances. Take vitamin C and salicylic acid for example. While on their own, both are effective against acne. But when combined, they tend to be harmful to your skin. But luckily, sulfur and salicylic acid are ingredients that complement each other. Instead of canceling each other out!
This powerful yet gentle combination of 10% sulfur and 3% salicylic acid makes for a great soap. And that too for a multitude of skin problems. Such as dermatitis, blackheads and whiteheads, blemishes, clogged pores, and of course, acne and pimples.
You don’t even have to wait for a whole month to see results. About 2 weeks are pretty much it. So you know what you’re going to turn to for quick relief.
It’s just that the combo of sulfur and salicylic acid is not for everyone. So be a little cautious at first, look for any red signs. If they appear, stop using the soap.
Shea Moisture African Black Soap Body Wash
There was a time when African black soap products were all the rage. Fortunately, some brands stood the test of time. Shea Moisture has turned the soothing, calming, nourishing and anti-bacterial properties of African black soap into liquid gold.
This body wash calms irritated skin and nourishes dry skin. It even controls acne breakouts. With the help of aloe vera, oats, and shea butter.
It has small, black soap bits that act as a scrub to exfoliate the skin. Though it’s marketed as body wash, some people use it as a face wash. But the results might vary.
What you’re actually looking at here is a natural soap that treats harsh skin conditions even. Like eczema and psoriasis. So it comes as a surprise to find out that there’s no enticing scent in the cards.
CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid
Made for rough and bumpy skin, the CeraVe body wash does an excellent job of cleansing. It does away with dead skin cells. The use of essential ceramides in here is what helps your skin regain its natural glow. In fact, this ingredient also contributes to maintaining a natural protective barrier.
There no microbeads for exfoliation. But it does have a combination of salicylic acid and niacinamide i.e. vitamin B3. The former exfoliates the skin. And the latter calms sore and irritated spots.
A little product like this goes a long way. Meaning a single bottle could last you a month or two.
What I almost forgot to mention is the patented MVE technology. What it does is replenish the ceramides. And keeps your skin moisturized for a long time.
Unfortunately, this body wash doesn’t work on all skin types.
Tree To Tub SoapBerry for Body Wash
Though less popular than the other body washes, this body wash from Tree to Tub isn’t any less effective. The 5.5 pH-balanced formula ensures that every application leaves the skin naturally smooth.
With the main ingredient being wild soapberry extracts, the body wash has soothing properties. So it becomes possible to calm irritated, acne-prone skin.
Some organic oils are also thrown into the mix. To hydrate, moisturize, and further soothe the skin. As for the peppermint content, it helps to revitalize your skin. Leaving a fresh and cool after-shower scent and feel!
The ingredients are organic. Also, the presence of anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties makes the current pick the perfect choice for acne prone skin.
Sadly, it doesn’t lather very easily.
Chic Republic Detox Natural Body Wash
Detoxifying your skin means getting rid of harmful toxins. That might be causing a variety of skin conditions. That’s what this body wash from Chic Republic promises to do.
It uses activated charcoal made from coconut. To remove impurities and unclog your pores. There’s a unique ingredient added to this. And that is white volcanic lava minerals. They act as skin rejuvenators to effectively set this body wash apart from the many others.
Aloe vera is also included. To deliver a good dose of hydration to the skin. Plus, there’s enough proof that aloe vera is perfect for acne treatment.
The product is paraben-free, cruelty-free, and hypoallergenic. But it does use some fragrance.
What is Causing My Body Acne?
Who says that pimples and blackheads appear only on the face? Definitely, someone who hasn’t got them on the face! That’s for sure.
Breakouts pop up on the neck, shoulders, upper arms, and chest. Even the butt region is not spared! In that regard, acne on the back is also quite common. It’s now called bacne.
So what are the possible causes here?
When dead skin cells and oil get trapped inside the follicle i.e. pore, a blockage is formed. This then turns into a blackhead, which progresses into an angered pimple. But that is only if bacteria penetrate into the blackhead.
More often than not, when body acne is a part of the picture, it means bacne, chest acne, or upper body acne. Not the lower half of your body.
Your torso also contains a higher level of sebaceous glands. Much like your face. So it’s only normal for follicles up there to get clogged with dead skin cells and excess sebum.
How to Get Rid of Body Acne (Bacne)?
How can pimples pop up in strange places on the body? Acne breakouts pretty much anywhere on the body have now become quite common. And more often than not, the condition worsens due to an unstable hormone level.
So apart from using the best body washes for acne prone skin. What else is there to keep the skin away from blemishes?
- Go for natural fabrics: Choose natural materials such as linen and cotton. Maybe your synthetic fabric is the cause of the problem. And this applies not only to your clothing. But also to your pillowcases, sheets, etc.
- Select showers over baths: A bath doesn’t eliminate bacteria from your skin completely. But a shower definitely does.
Look for common irritants in everyday products: It’s likely that your laundry detergent or any other personal care item contains potential irritants. In the form of mineral oil, fragrances, or dyes. So first figure out if they are the culprits. And if yes, then avoid using them at all costs. - Reduce your outdoor tanning sessions: Do you tan on the beach very often? Did you know that exposing your skin to the UV rays of the sun exacerbates acne?
Don’t skip exfoliation: I’m sure you have time to exfoliate your skin at least one time per week. And if you think your skin has the ability to handle it, why not exfoliate more often! Preferably with body washes that contain either alpha hydroxy acid or beta hydroxy acid. These are relatively gentler than regular scrubs. That is packed with abrasive or harsh ingredients. - Keep a check on your intake of processed food items: Processed foods and sweet as well as smoking fall in the same category. Instead, include more fresh veggies and fruits and water into your daily diet.
- Start exercising: Here’s proof that adopting a more active lifestyle helps in managing and getting rid of acne.
How to Treat Back Acne?
Back acne, also known as bacne, is not such an uncommon occurrence. So here’s how you can treat it!
With OTC skincare products
I mean not all over-the-counter topical products are useless. The ones that aren’t can be very effective in treating mild conditions. Just make sure they contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or resorcinol.
With a good daily skincare routine
In the case of bacne or even chest acne, caring for the skin becomes very important.
- Your routine should consist of a mild cleanser for regular washing.
- Make sure you take a shower post-exercise.
- Hair after shampooing and conditioning should be rinsed thoroughly.
- Avoid sun exposure in excess as much as you can.
- And lastly, don’t pick or squeeze your acne.
And now, here’s how you can prevent the formation of back acne:
- Avoid medications that include lithium and androgens.
- Try not using oil-based products (sunscreen, moisturizers, etc.) on the back.
- Eliminate exerting too much pressure on the back (Acne Mechanica).
Conclusion
Taking care of your skin is a job that takes a great deal of effort and commitment, but it’s a job that pays you back with clear, healthy skin. And now, you have a chance.
The best body washes for acne prone skin can help you get that smooth, blemish-free skin you’ve always wanted.
You can try one or try them all. But once you find a product that works for you, stick with it. Arm yourself with patience. Cause at the end of that road lies skin that’s relatively less prone to developing acne. You might even pick up healthy and glowing skin along the way!
