If you have oily skin or you’re prone to acne, the best way to prevent breakouts is to use body wash products that contain salicylic acid. This oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid is your first line of defense against acne because of its ability to penetrate the skin. It can effectively break down the glue that keeps the skin cells intact, helping you exfoliate the body and unclog pores.
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The best salicylic acid body wash also provide essential inflammatory benefits, which results in your skin healing naturally. It reduces the production of sebum, removes excess oil, and gets rid of dead skin cells. These characteristics make it a popular ingredient in various anti-acne skin, hair, and body products.
However, avoid them if you are pregnant, have extremely dry skin, or are taking blood thinning medications to prevent side effects.
Top 15 Salicylic Acid Body Washes
We rounded up 15 best salicylic acid body washes for your perusal.
CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid
The CeraVe is another body wash that is developed with the best dermatologists to resolve bumpy, rough skin caused by Keratosis Pilaris. It contains 3 essential Ceramides (1, 3, and 6-11) which are known for their capacity to maintain and restore the skin’s natural protective barrier.
It employs the patented MVE controlled-release technology that delivers long-lasting moisture and replenishes Ceramides. Furthermore, the combination of calming Niacinamide and exfoliating salicylic acid soothe irritated or inflamed skin.
This CeraVe body wash is gentle to all types of skin. Even the most extremely sensitive kind! Cause it’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic. This is great news, isn’t it? As for bad news, it’s a common concern with all body washes reviewed in this article. The product doesn’t seem to work for a select number of people.
Neutrogena Body Clear Acne Treatment Body Wash
*Don't forget to check the price on all options as some may be running exclusive discounts.
Neutrogena Body Clear Acne Treatment is specially formulated for acne-prone skin. It uses exclusive Microclear Technology. This penetrates the oil and allows its salicylic acid content to work through the source of acne or breakouts. The same technology also helps in unclogging pores and removing impurities or dirt from the body.
The refreshing grapefruit scent and rich foaming action gently exfoliate dead skin. Thus, keeping it healthy, smooth, and glowing. It rinses easily without leaving pore-clogging residue on your skin. Especially in the chest, back, or shoulder areas!
It’s a very popular product since it’s the #1 salicylic acid body wash recommended by dermatologists. The formula is very effective in terms of treating and preventing breakouts. It doesn’t even dry out the skin. Plus, the delicious and fresh grapefruit scent is like the cherry on the cake.
But what makes it slightly unattractive is the addition of excessive active chemicals. So if your skin is on the more sensitive side, you might not want to buy this.
Phisoderm Anti-Blemish Body Wash
The Phisoderm Body Wash has a triple soothing formula. This consists of aloe, chamomile, and vitamin E. These ingredients are further strengthened with 2% salicylic acid. For a maximum acne-control effect that is. It has excellent pH balancing properties that restore the skin’s natural balance. They also sustain the protective moisture barrier.
Washing your face with this anti-blemish gel cleanser certainly reduces the occurrence of acne, whiteheads, and blackheads. While nourishing skin sensitivities, if you have any. The skincare product is alcohol-free, oil-free, and dye-free. It has a natural scent that is incredibly refreshing and relaxing to the senses.
I’m sure you’ve appreciated everything so far. But you might not like what I’m about to say. The viscosity of this body wash is very low. Meaning the consistency is too thin and liquid-like. So be careful when pouring or squeezing it out of its bottle.
Mario Badescu A.H.A. Botanical Body Soap
*Don't forget to check the price on all options as some may be running exclusive discounts.
Mario Badescu’s AHA is infused with grapefruit and papaya extracts to break down the oil buildup while exfoliating dull, uneven skin. It is formulated with oat protein that soothes irritated or sensitive spots and a rejuvenating Ginseng extract. All these ingredients leave the body smooth, soft, and re-hydrated after washing.
This botanical liquid soap is gentle to the skin and safe to use as an everyday body wash. When using it, avoid contact with eyes and face. Use a loofah, soft cloth, or sponge to exfoliate the wet skin and rinse well.
The best part about this product is that it leaves zero soapy residue. I highly recommend it for dealing with troubled or oily skin. By troubled skin, I mean random ingrown hairs or acne on the back. This stuff has the ability to get rid of all of that without irritating your skin!
The only setback comes in the form of a not-so-pleasant smell. I guess you’ve got to lose something to gain something here.
First Aid Beauty KP Bumpy Skin Wash
*Don't forget to check the price on all options as some may be running exclusive discounts.
The First Aid Beauty KP is a dermatologist-recommended skin wash for people with bumpy, rough skin caused by Keratosis Pilaris. KP is a skin condition where keratin, the skin protein, forms hard plugs in the hair follicles.
It’s undeniable that this is a unique and effective cleansing wash. The formula contains alpha and beta hydroxyl acids, aloe and Vitamin E. These premium ingredients work together to exfoliate, cleanse, and moisturize the affected areas. They also reduce bumps and redness in your skin.
The skin wash softens dry and rough skin patches. Thus, restoring your skin’s healthy complexion. And to top it off, it’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free, which means its safe to use on your skin!
You can expect a considerable improvement, no doubt. Redness and bumps reduce to a drastic extent. Now, this is surprising considering how cheap the cost is. Plus, the quantity is also quite generous. All these benefits sort of make the one drawback seem much less troubling. And that is the very thick consistency, which is slightly difficult for rubbing into the skin.
Solimo Pink Grapefruit Clarifying Body Wash
Solimo Clarifying Pink Grapefruit Salicylic Acid Body Wash is infused with 2% salicylic acid. And with grapefruit extract and Vitamin C. It helps the skin combat breakouts. That often cause pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. So you can enjoy a refreshing shower without fear of skin dryness.
The foaming body wash has fruit scent, which smells good on the skin. It is dermatologically-tested and proven to treat or prevent acne. Regular use of this clarifying body wash exfoliates, nourishes, and calms your skin.
And you know what; you don’t have to use for weeks to spot noticeable differences. Just 7 days, and you’ll see how your acne, ingrown hairs, redness, etc. reduce. All thanks to the super-exfoliating beads. But it’s the presence of salicylic acid that brings about most of this positive change.
The manufacturer claims that this product is like the Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Body Wash. And to be honest, it does work like Neutrogena, a lot. Except for the fragrance that, in no way, smells like delicious, fresh grapefruit.
Dermisa Salicylic Acid Sulfur Soap Bar
*Don't forget to check the price on all options as some may be running exclusive discounts.
Since 1999,Dermisa soap is trusted by many users with Keratosis Pilaris, acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. It contains 10% sulfur and 3% salicylic acid, the best combination to fight skin inflammation, bacteria, infection, and irritation.
Dermisa is trusted by dermatologists and skin experts in the USA and Canada. Due to the brand’s ability to provide soothing conditioning. This soap bar, in particular, is an ideal wash to treat many skin and hair conditions. Like Demodex mites, tinea flava, eczema, head lice, itch mites, jock itch, pityriasis versicolor, and rosacea.
The antifungal and antiseptic properties you get access to here should be your deciding factors. And it’s a large bar. So you don’t even have to worry about the soap getting used up quickly.
It has a natural scent. Without the inclusion of any perfumes! Now, this is both good and bad news. The former because it means you’re not exposing your skin to harmful or unfavorable ingredients. And bad if you like scented skincare products. After all, not all fragrances are artificial or harsh on the skin.
Nubian Heritage Body Wash, African Black Soap
*Don't forget to check the price on all options as some may be running exclusive discounts.
Nubian Heritage Body Wash is formulated with certified organic botanical extracts and papaya enzyme. Moreover, it uses the medicinal properties of African Black Soap and the hydrating properties of Shea butter to nourish the skin.
That’s not all, in case you’re wondering. The body wash is also infused with enough amount of salicylic acid. Now, this has the power to effectively treat, control, and prevents acne. Or other skin breakouts.
What’s also worth noting is that this product is a skin detoxifying and lightening body wash. It has an excellent capacity to reduce discoloration too. So if you want to buy the current pick for skin lightening effects, you’re in the safe zone.
You know those dry eczema patches that appear on the skin? This Nubian solution possesses the ability to eliminate that grime as well of the skin. It clears it all up. And makes the skin feel smooth and soft.
The formula is plenty concentrated. So you don’t need to use much for one application. That means you can expect the body wash to last for a very long time. Just don’t count on the thick liquid to come out of the bottle easily.
Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash
Since 1995, Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash has been among the leading acne treatments. That has already helped millions of users across the globe. It is developed by expert dermatologists, which is the most impressive aspect. These professionals decided to utilize exfoliating beads for balancing out the effects of salicylic acid.
It uses a 3-step working system that gives a clear, healthy, and glowing complexion. It is trusted by many celebrities whose skin is prone to breakouts and acne. A result of the constant use of makeup!
This mild body wash works quickly to unclog pores and dissolve impurities. It also eliminates dirt and exfoliates dead skin to reveal a smooth and glowing complexion. Just don’t forget to shake the bottle well before using.
My only complaint is that there’s no pump. Considering how thick the body wash and how large the bottle is, this does prove to be slightly cumbersome.
Touch Keratosis Pilaris & Acne Exfoliating Body Wash Cleanser
Touch Body Wash Cleanser is formulated to treat bumpy dry patches. That is often the outcome of keratosis pilaris. It has aloe vera, Gotu Kola, and vitamin E.
The premium ingredients are infused with 2% salicylic acid and 15% glycolic acid. With 3.5 pH level and the combination of these two acids, the body wash deeply penetrates your skin. To effectively clear your skin blemishes. This action even exfoliates dull, dead skin. And it controls acne without causing redness or inflammation.
You’ll be relieved to know that the body wash doesn’t contain skin drying alcohol. Along with no sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors. The perfect balance between the humectants and surfactants offers an ultra-cleansing capability. But it doesn’t do much to prevent over-drying of your skin if used daily.
Murad Acne Body Wash
Murad Acne Body Wash is more than a skincare cleanser. It is a choice you make to nourish your skin at the cellular level. The foaming and lathering action of the formula is enriched with 1% glycolic acid and salicylic acid. Together, they control skin breakouts. It utilizes biodegradable beads that deeply exfoliate dead skin. And also promote a smoother and clearer complexion.
The use of licorice root and green tea ingredients is hard to turn down. These soothe skin irritation and eliminate redness.
The body wash lathers well despite the lack of sulfate. For optimal results, you’ve got to use it regularly. You can even pair with other such exceptional and effective Murad skincare products.
It works well on sensitive skin too. Just be careful when squeezing out the body wash. Due to the tube shape, using too much at once is very easy.
Every Man Jack Body Wash, Activated Charcoal
Every Man Jack Body Wash uses plant-based and naturally-derived premium ingredients. Along with 2% salicylic acid to provide exceptional cleaning results. The activated charcoal present in here washes away excess oil and impurities. Thus, keeping the skin pores clean and unclogged.
It has no dyes, parabens, phthalates, and aluminum contents. So your skin sensitivities don’t feel left out.
The rich lathering effect that gently cleanses come from coconut-based surfactants. While the aloe vera content in here nourishes the skin. Keeping the body feeling refreshed, soft, and smooth.
Some body washes seem to rush out of the bottle. So you have to be very careful when squeezing out the liquid. But it’s just the opposite in this case.
Touch Keratosis Pilaris & Acne Exfoliating Body Wash Cleanser
Touch Keratosis Pilaris & Acne Exfoliating Body Wash is an award-winning product, after all. So expect it to deliver excellent cleansing, rejuvenating, and nourishing effects. It contains 2% salicylic acid and 15% glycolic acid for exfoliation.
On top of that, there are baobab seeds, peppermint, coconut, and green coffee ingredients added too. These rejuvenate the skin, providing instant relief to dryness. As for the natural jojoba beads, they encourage easy elimination of dead and dull skin.
The most enticing part is about to come. The powerful capability of the body wash to treat and control irritation, redness, and bumps caused by keratosis pilaris. This is what makes it one of the most preferred products in the market.
It doesn’t use fake fragrances, only a hint of a pleasant citrus scent. And the product comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. That you might have to use if you find the body wash too strong for your skin.
Natural Elephant Dead Sea Sulfur Soap
Natural Elephant Dead Sea Sulfur Soap is specially formulated for acne-prone skin. The combination of salicylic acid and sulfur in this bar reduces excessive oiliness. It even does a swell of a job when it comes to unclogging pores and clearing plus rejuvenating your skin. It has antiseptic properties that quickly kill fungi and bacteria.
To get the most favorable results, make it a part of your daily skincare routine. It keeps acne away, resulting in a healthy-looking and glowing skin.
To be honest, there are no major flaws to look forward to here.
MenScience Androceuticals Daily Body Wash
MenScience Adroceuticals Body Wash is made of professional-grade ingredients. And a combination of 4% glycolic acid and 1% salicylic acid. The advanced skincare and grooming formulation effectively clears oil residues. It also washes away dirt and impurities.
Expect this product to even exfoliate the skin deeply without stripping natural sebum. It naturally restores the healthy appearance and softness of your skin.
Mild for your daily shower routine, you can use the body wash regularly. No doubt, it leaves the skin soft, clean and revitalized. Lather it thoroughly on wet skin and then rinse well.
Although you might not like the smell so very much. It’s a bit overpowering and chemical-like.
Salicylic Acid Body Wash Buying Guide
Just knowing what is the most effective salicylic acid body wash is not enough. I mean you’ve got to know how such a product is different from the other, normal body washes. Even using it is a whole different story altogether, right?
With that in mind, here’s every query about salicylic acid ANSWERED.
Useful Tips for Making the Most of Salicylic Acid Body Wash
Have you never used body washes equipped with salicylic acid? If not, then please know that you’ve got to start slow. Because they do have the capacity to dry out your skin if you don’t do it right. Start by using it every other day. Meaning one day opt for your normal bath soap/body wash. And the next use the salicylic acid body wash.
Another very useful tip is making body moisturizer a part of your after-bath routine. Right after you wipe off your skin with the towel, apply a moisturizer. And over time, you can start using the product on a daily basis.
Don’t forget that salicylic acid has exfoliation properties. So don’t scrub too hard during the wash. Allow the effective soap to follow its natural instincts. You obviously want to avoid witnessing your skin peeling off post-shower, don’t you?
You can look forward to smoother and softer skin. That’s for sure. Favorable results are less likely to appear just after a single wash. But definitive to appear after a few of those. Particularly when you have a skin condition called keratosis pilaris.
Also keep in mind to always read the product’s ingredients and instructions. It’s best to follow the guidelines set by the manufacturer.
What’s Better for Acne: Salicylic Acid or Glycolic Acid?
Salicylic acid has an oil-soluble nature. So it’s got the ability to dissolve that glue present between your skin cells. What does this suggest? That salicylic acid body washes are perfect for eliminating dead skin and excess oil. On top of that, they reduce inflammation due to the chemical connection with aspirin.
Glycolic acid is yet another mild chemical exfoliant. The solution contains sugarcane-derived alpha hydroxy acid. As a matter of fact, this particular formula is often used in chemical peels. It helps a great deal in fading age spots and acne scars. Glycolic acid also encourages your skin to absorb other products better.
On the downside, glycolic acid contributes to making pigmented skin look lighter. It even increases sun sensitivity.
So what’s the answer to this frequently asked question? What is better for acne, is it salicylic acid or glycolic acid? For clearing acne, I would say both are quite effective. But the more commonly chosen option is salicylic acid.
Q: How to Get Rid of Body Acne?
Body acne is quite stubborn to eliminate. The causes of the condition are quite a few. Such as bacteria, hormones, plugged pores, and more. But there are many treatment methods as well. So let’s find out what they are below.
Caring for the Skin
- Using a mild skin cleanser – Facial cleansers for the face are applicable to use on the body. Even on your back if you want to prevent potential outbreaks. Just make sure it’s a gentle cleanser. That doesn’t damage or irritate your skin.
- Try topical lotions and creams – These are easily available and they go a long way in treating acne. Common ingredients found in OTC topical lotions and creams include: Benzoyl peroxide, Salicylic acid, Alpha hydroxy acids, Sulfur, And retinoids.
- Keeping away from irritants – Are you prone to sweating? If so, avoid wearing too tight clothing. It tends to hold oil and sweat against your skin.
Natural Remedies
- Body cleansers with fruit acids – Now it’s true that fruit acids help in dealing with acne. So a cleanser armed with fruit acids is an effective solution. These fruit acids include citrus, malic, tartaric, glycolic, gluconic, etc.
- Aloe vera – This natural ingredient moisturizes your skin like no other. So don’t think twice before replacing your everyday body lotion or cream with pure aloe vera gel. But if you experience any stinging, burning, or redness, don’t use it.
- Tea tree oil – It’s undeniable that tea tree oil offers acne-fighting benefits. Much like the medicinal ingredient benzoyl peroxide.
- Supplements of brewer’s yeast – Brewer’s yeast consists of a strain, CBS 5926. When you ingest this into your system, it contributes to reducing acne outbreaks. The supplements come in the form of liquid, powder, tablet, or flakes.
Q: Is Salicylic Acid Safe to Use During Pregnancy?
Sometimes acne gets worse during pregnancy. So in such situations, is using skin care products with salicylic acid a safe option? The straightforward answer to this question is YES. That means you can use salicylic acid body washes once or twice daily during pregnancy.
But there are body washes specifically created for pregnant women. They are better well equipped to handle both drastic and minor pregnancy-related skin changes.
However, there’s no denying that many regular toners and cleansers already include salicylic acid. So you have to just make sure the content is not over 2 percent. As this is highly recommended by doctors and medical professionals. Also, avoid using them excessively.
Conclusion
After reviewing this wide selection of body wash products that contain salicylic acid. You now have more options to choose from. Almost all of them have a 2% concentration of acne-controlling acid. If you are new to such body washes and want to take it slow. Find one with only 1% concentration. Then gradually switch to a more powerful cleanser. As the ones mentioned above!
The bottom line is to find the best body wash for your skin condition and sensitivities. While also keep the skin healthy from within.
I want to take this article seriously because I am looking for a good salicylic acid based body wash but the first product you recommend is literally called AHA Botanical Body Soap. I can’t trust an article written by someone who doesn’t know what AHA is.