willow bark face wash

19 Best Acne Face Washes in 2023

Perhaps the unsung star of a complete skincare regimen is face wash. It seldom seems to receive the credit it deserves; rather, it’s frequently written off as a tedious prerequisite to the fun of serums and creams. However, a facial cleanser prepares the skin for every subsequent treatment and ingredient, particularly when it comes to treating acne. With the help of these 19 best acne face washes, we can start by getting rid of your pimples and giving your skin that smooth, glowing, flawless appearance.

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash

The highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide found in an over-the-counter product, PanOxyl’s acne cleanser has a whopping ten percent benzoyl peroxide content, making it extremely effective at eradicating acne-causing germs as soon as it is massaged into the skin. After just one application, the antibacterial foaming wash starts to clean and unclog pores. However, this cleanser can be drying and is powerful. 

CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser

Numerous dermatologists recommend this CeraVe cleanser, praising it for its ability to cure and prevent breakouts without stripping skin. With the right combination of moisturizing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid and potent acne-fighting chemicals like four percent benzoyl peroxide, your breakouts will be treated without aggravating your skin more. It can stain towels and garments because of the benzoyl peroxide content, which is significant.

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

Dermatologists regard CeraVe as one of the most reputable skincare companies. This cleanser eliminates grime and makeup effectively without removing the skin’s natural oils. This facial cleanser is also created without additional superfluous ingredients like scents and other harsh chemicals and is widely accessible, reasonably priced, and helpful for a variety of skin conditions. 

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash

This medicated cleanser is perfect for oily skin and acne-prone skin because salicylic acid is one of its main ingredients. This face cleanser, which has been dermatologist-tested, is so effective that it has been shown in studies to eliminate excess surface oil by up to 47%. A flurry of moisturizing ingredients guards against skin being parched or dried despite the fact that that may seem terribly drying. This cleanser aims to regulate oil production, therefore it might not be the best choice for dry or sensitive skin. 

SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel

Lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) and glycolic acid are used in this SkinCeuticals cleanser to exfoliate the skin, clean up pores, and smooth out any bumpiness or hyperpigmentation from previous acne flare-ups. Additionally, it is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, neutralizing microorganisms on the skin’s surface and lowering the likelihood that pores may clog in the future. The face wash may, however, become stuck close to the top due to the bottle’s packaging.

Glo Skin Beta-Clarity Clear Skin Cleanser

In order to effectively treat blackheads and pimples, this cleanser offers a physical exfoliant in the shape of mild, eco-friendly beads as well as a chemical exfoliant in the form of salicylic acid. This foamy cleanser purifies the skin’s surface by reducing excessive sebum production, and the apple amino acids improve the skin’s moisture barrier.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

Popular facial cleanser Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash is made especially for people with oily and acne-prone skin as Salicylic acid, a frequent component in many acne treatments, is included in it. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash’s oil-free formula is amazing because it can help your skin less oily. Furthermore, it will not clog pores because it is non-comedogenic.

Fresh® Soy Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

There are two types of skin: semi-sensitive skin and skin that reacts violently to even the mildest cosmetics. This extremely gentle cleanser can be the finest acne-clearing option if that describes your skin type. It uses soy proteins and amino acids to thoroughly clean your pores instead of salicylic acid, which can be harsh on your skin and cause irritation. But it is really expensive, and it does not help with really bad outbreaks.

Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser

Another cleanser that is not specifically designed to cure acne but that customers have found to be helpful in a pinch to get rid of their outbreaks is this one! The nutrients and antioxidants that are naturally extracted from superfoods make this face cleanser a great option for aged skin. Cold-pressed kale extract contains phytonutrients that help cleanse the skin while also supplying vitamins C, E, and K. Green tea calms and nourishes the skin, while spinach aids in reducing inflammation.

T-Blast Foaming Facial Cleanser

Although very mild, the cleanser’s 0.4% natural tea tree oil content is sufficient to help treat acne, making it ideal for teenagers. Of course, this cleanser probably will not work completely if the adolescent acne is more severe. However, for the common pre-teen or adolescent acne that practically everyone experiences every now and then, this is a great cleanser to help control the outbreaks and maintain confidence!

TULA Skin Care Supersize Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser

It is very likely that if you are pregnant, an OB/GYN has advised you to avoid a number of things, including several skincare products (like retinol). However, this popular cleanser is not one of them. It is especially suitable for skin that is prone to acne because of its mild exfoliating characteristics, which help clear pores. Prebiotic and probiotic extracts, together with turmeric, are used to do this, leaving your skin feeling exceptionally clean and balanced. You might wish to pick a stronger face wash if you have oily skin.

Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser

In comparison to your typical breakout condition, hormonal acne is a different animal. This kind of acne is chronic, may be present deep under the skin, and may even become excruciatingly painful. If you experience this problem, an extra-strength product is certainly required, which is why this acne cleanser is the best choice! To treat and prevent acne, it makes use of two different kinds of salicylic acid.

Kate Somerville® ExfoliKate® Cleanser

This cleanser effectively exfoliates the skin, which is a great approach to maintain clear pores and prevent acne. Glycolic and lactic acids penetrate deeply into pores while you remove makeup and pollutants from your face, and a variety of naturally derived enzymes ensure that your pores are completely unclogged when you rinse the cleanser out. It is advised to perform two cleanings for the optimum outcome.

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser

Finding a trustworthy cleanser for sensitive skin can be challenging, especially when it comes to getting rid of persistent acne. Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser is a fantastic option if you are searching for a facial cleanser that is made with red, irritated skin in mind. This wash will not clog pores because it is fragrance-free, soap-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic. The bottle’s pump can be a little erratic, which increases the possibility that it will break quickly.

Avene Antirougeurs Fort Soothing Concentrate

Skin redness, heat, tightness, and irritation are frequently linked to acne rosacea. Although it can be challenging to eliminate these persistent red spots, substances like dextran sulfate and ruscus extract can be helpful. Vasoconstrictors like ruscus extract (Ruscus aculeatus) can help lower the size and redness of blood vessels under the skin. If you are taking off sunscreen or makeup, this product can be better utilized as a secondary wash.

Starface Space Wash

Consistent use—especially for teenagers—is one of the greatest ways for anyone to notice results from any product for acne-prone skin. Due to its trendy branding and ingredients that address adolescent skin problems, we believe that Starface Space Wash is a fantastic choice for teenagers. It has calming components including calendula flower extract, sage leaf extract, and white willow bark extract, which help exfoliate and deeply clear pores to minimize acne and irritation. Sage leaf helps calm and relieve acne. 

True Botanicals Renew Nourishing Cleanser

Although this cleanser is a little more expensive than some other brands, it provides a highly nourishing, antioxidant-rich product that is ideal for indications of aging. Willow bark and green tea balance oily skin while defending the skin barrier. Glycerin, aloe vera, and a combination of grapefruit, lavender, vetiver, and jasmine are also included in this mix; these ingredients are deeply moisturizing and nourishing, and they also have a synergistic anti-inflammatory effect.

Cetaphil Clarifying Acne Cream Cleanser

When applied to the skin, the product, which is initially very thick and creamy, turns into a pleasant foam. You can see and feel the effects of the deep-cleansing salicylic acid once you wash it off; your skin will have that healthy shine but will not feel stripped or dry.

DERMA E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

DERMA E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid deeply hydrates skin while removing grime, oil, and pollutants. Hyaluronic Acid, Chamomile, Lemon Grass, and Papaya are all included in this ultra-hydrating face cleanser, along with antioxidant Vitamins A and E, to gently cleanse and condition skin for a soft, smooth, dewy sensation with no drying, aging side effects. This face wash exfoliates, cleanses, and improves skin’s natural glow while also assisting in the fading of blemish marks and sun damage for radiant-looking skin. It also visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles and dryness.

Acne affects everyone, whether they have been suffering from the sudden onset of adult acne or have been battling pimples for years. However, the correct blemish-removal chemicals can calm your skin. There are many acne-fighting treatments available on the market (both over-the-counter and prescription), but creating an acne skincare routine that will effectively treat your outbreaks is not always straightforward. We give you all the information you need so you may choose the ideal face wash for your skin without having to spend a lot of money on this really simple, straightforward process.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL FOR RAPIDLY ACHIEVING LONGER, THICKER, AND LUSCIOUS HAIR

Looking to quickly achieve longer, thicker hair? While there’s no miracle solution for instant growth, this homemade hair growth oil can help accelerate the process. Packed with herbs and essential oils, this all-natural recipe is the result of years spent experimenting with effective methods for fast hair growth. It’s simple to make and highly effective.

There are plenty of so-called “fast hair growth secrets” out there—some work, while others don’t, and I’ve likely tried most of them! My journey into natural beauty began with a desire for longer, thicker hair. Like all my DIY beauty recipes, this hair growth oil stems from my personal experiences.

As a teen, I would spend hours hunting for herbs and supplements in specialty stores, diligently reading Long Hair Care Community forums, and testing various tips and remedies to grow my hair to hip length. In retrospect, I wish I’d focused less on superficial goals, but this quest provided valuable insights into the beauty industry, helping me cultivate discernment.

Whether you’re looking to combat hair loss, encourage regrowth after stress, or simply boost your hair growth, I hope this hair oil recipe helps you reach your goals.

CAN OILS REALLY HELP GROW YOUR HAIR FASTER?

The hair growth industry is booming, with countless new, exotic “fast hair growth oils” and magic serums promising to deliver your dream of long, mermaid-like locks.

However, the reality is that most carrier oils lack any truly magical properties for hair growth. In fact, using excessive amounts of the wrong oil can lead to issues like yeast overgrowth, exacerbating hair loss and scalp problems.

Take argan oil, for example. It was once hailed as the miracle hair growth oil, but its fatty acid profile is quite ordinary, resembling that of sesame or sunflower oil—neither of which have been shown to promote hair growth. (And I say this as someone who once relied on argan oil!)

That said, a few oils do genuinely support hair growth and thickness. When combined with certain herbs and essential oils—like rosemary and peppermint—you can create a more effective homemade hair growth oil.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL BENEFITS + HOW IT WORKS

This homemade hair oil promotes natural hair growth in several effective ways:

  • Stimulates Scalp Blood Flow: Infused with powerful herbs and essential oils, this recipe enhances blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles.
  • Modulates Hair Growth Phase: Castor oil activates prostaglandin pathways linked to the growth phase, accelerating hair growth.
  • Reduces Scalp Buildup: Massaging the oil into your scalp before washing helps loosen buildup that can clog hair follicles, similar to how cleansing oils keep facial pores clear.
  • Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidants in this DIY hair oil protect hair follicles and shafts from oxidative stress, supporting faster growth.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: Excess bacteria and yeast can cause issues like dandruff and scalp acne, hindering growth. The antibacterial herbs and essential oils in this recipe, such as rosemary oil, help maintain a balanced scalp environment.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into how to make your own hair growth oil.

KEY HERBS FOR HAIR GROWTH

PEPPERMINT

Known for its cooling and soothing effects, peppermint oil is great for irritated scalps. Research suggests it may promote hair growth even more effectively than rosemary. Peppermint oil accelerates the hair growth phase and increases hair follicles, contributing to longer, thicker hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also support scalp health.

WHITE WILLOW BARK

If you face scalp issues like dandruff or acne, white willow bark can be beneficial. It contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory and gentle exfoliant. While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, it promotes a healthy scalp by soothing irritation, unclogging pores, and reducing buildup.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary-infused oil is a popular remedy for hair growth. Studies show it can be as effective as minoxidil without side effects. Rosemary stimulates blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and encouraging both new and existing hair growth. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help maintain a healthy scalp, while its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to hair loss.

GREEN TEA

Adding green tea leaves to your hair oil infuses it with antioxidants that support hair follicle health. Although caffeine and ECEG—key components for hair growth—are water-soluble and won’t transfer to oil, the antioxidants in green tea still provide benefits. Note that it can impart a deep green color to the oil, but it generally doesn’t stain hair.

These herbs are effective allies in your quest for longer, thicker hair, and incorporating them into your hair oil can enhance its benefits.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR HAIR GROWTH

To enhance your herbal hair growth oil, consider adding essential oils for concentrated benefits. 

Peppermint and rosemary essential oils are particularly effective for promoting hair growth, and using both can provide optimal results. You can also create a blend with cedarwood, lavender, thyme, frankincense, myrrh, palmarosa, and nettle, all known for supporting hair growth and scalp health. 

Additionally, incorporating an essential oil blend like Beauty Within can further boost scalp health with its antifungal properties, making it a great addition to your scalp treatments and hair masks.

FAST HAIR GROWTH OIL INGREDIENTS

You’ll need just a few ingredients for this DIY hair growth oil:

  • Heat-stable carrier oil for herbal infusion
  • Cold-pressed castor oil
  • Dried, organic hair growth herbs
  • Growth-boosting essential oils
  • Vitamin E oil

You can choose to make this oil with essential oils, herbal infusion, or both. I prefer using both to maximize the plant’s benefits. If you’re short on time, simply mix the carrier oils with the recommended essential oils.

INGREDIENTS

  • J MAC BOTANICALS Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
  • Starwest Botanicals Organic Rosemary Leaf
  • Simply Earth Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Vitamin E Oil from Forefront Health

CARRIER OIL OPTIONS

  • MCT oil
  • Fractionated coconut oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Jojoba oil
  • Olive oil

Using a stable carrier oil is crucial. Many common oils, like sweet almond and sunflower oil, contain unstable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that break down with heat and light, losing their beneficial properties. Instead, opt for monounsaturated or saturated oils, which are more stable. I recommend MCT or fractionated coconut oil, especially if you have issues with yeast overgrowth, as MCT oil won’t feed Malassezia yeast.

Once you prepare the herbal-infused oil, dilute it with castor oil. Castor oil is well-regarded for hair growth due to its unique properties:

  • It mimics prostaglandins, extending the active hair growth phase and delaying the resting phase.
  • It conditions and prevents hair follicles from drying out.
  • It moisturizes and protects existing hair from breakage.
  • It has antibacterial and antifungal properties to maintain a healthy scalp.
  • It’s rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

  • 47g herbal infused oil (see below for instructions)
  • 47g castor oil
  • 3.5ml peppermint essential oil
  • 3.5ml rosemary essential oil

HERBAL INFUSED OIL

  • 1 cup (200g) carrier oil (e.g., MCT, olive, or avocado oil)
  • ~3/4 cup dry herbs (e.g., rosemary, willow bark, peppermint, green tea)
  • 5ml (1 tsp) vitamin E oil

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare Herbal Infused Oil:
    • Place dry herbs in a clean, heat-proof mason jar. Pour carrier oil over the herbs and add vitamin E oil. Stir gently to ensure herbs are fully submerged.
    • Seal the jar with a one-piece metal lid.
  • Infuse Oil:
    • In a slow cooker, place a hand towel at the bottom and fill with water to submerge the jar without leaking. Set to low and infuse for 8-12 hours, keeping water temperature between 50°C-71°C (120-160°F). Monitor closely to avoid overheating.
  • Strain Oil:
    • Once infused, let the oil cool. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a sieve, pressing gently to extract all the oil. Be cautious of sharp herb pieces.
  • Combine Oils:
    • Mix equal parts of the herbal infused oil and castor oil. Add peppermint and rosemary essential oils, stirring well.
  • Store:
    • Transfer the final mixture to a glass dropper bottle for easy application.

Enjoy your homemade hair growth oil!

HOW TO MAKE HAIR OIL WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Combine castor oil and a low-PUFA carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil) in equal parts. Add vitamin E and a hair growth essential oil blend to the mixture. Then, transfer it to a glass dropper bottle.

HOW TO USE HOMEMADE HAIR GROWTH OIL

To use the hair growth oil, apply it directly to your scalp using the dropper applicator, section by section, to ensure even coverage. After saturating your scalp, gently massage the oil in with your fingers or a jade gua sha comb to boost blood circulation to the follicles, promoting faster growth. If safe for you, you can also massage your scalp with your head upside down.

Leave the oil on for at least an hour or overnight, depending on your hair washing routine. When ready to wash it out, use conditioner first to help remove the castor oil, then follow with your regular shampoo. For added benefits, consider using a rosemary hair rinse or a pH-balancing vinegar rinse afterward.

CONCLUSION

DIY hair growth oil offers a natural and cost-effective solution for promoting hair growth and improving hair health. By combining essential oils known for their hair-nourishing properties with carrier oils that provide moisture and penetration, you can create a personalized hair treatment that addresses your specific needs. Remember to patch test the oil before applying it to your scalp to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Consistent use and proper application are key to achieving optimal results.