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Acne sufferers know that breakouts and salicylic acid go hand-in-hand. The popular skincare ingredient is used as an exfoliating agent to slough away dead skin cells and help promote cellular turnover. Being that it’s a beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid is able to penetrate into the pores to unclog them, making it perfect for those with acne-prone skin.
But unfortunately, not every salicylic acid product is made equal. I’ve struggled with hormonal breakouts for years and have added what seems like hundreds of different salicylic acid cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and spot treatments into my acne-fighting routine. Most formulas proved to be too harsh for my skin and resulted in uncomfortable dry patches, comprising my skin barrier and leaving my acne unfazed.
One product that has been a real MVP for my breakouts is Verso's Acne Deep Cleanse, an exfoliating facial cleanser with a high concentration of salicylic acid that keeps acne at bay by clearing the pores of breakout-causing dirt, oil, and debris.
TRY IT: Verso Acne Deep Cleanse ($40)
So, how does this salicylic acid cleanser differ from the tens of thousands of salicylic acid cleansers out there? It's formulated with a blend of hydrating ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide to ensure that its harsher acids and ingredients don't strip or disrupt the skin. In fact, overdrying your skin can actually cause acne! "When cleansing the skin, it is important to remove dirt and oil, but maintain the health of the outer skin layer," explains Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City. "Ingredients like glycerin can help maintain hydration and prevent skin irritation during the cleansing process."
The formula also contains zinc PCA, which experts like Dr. Hannah Sivak recommend for those with acne-prone skin because "it helps control acne and decrease sebum secretion while helping the skin retain its humidity."
Keep scrolling to see which other acne-fighting cleansers help prevent breakouts:
OleHenrisken Find Your Balance™ Oil Control Cleanser ($26)
Find Your Balance™ Oil Control Cleanser is a pore-purifying cleanser with powerful AHAs (glycolic and lactic acids) to reduce excess oil and unclog pores, without stripping the skin. Together, they help loosen and lift dead skin cells that can cause build-up and leave the skin looking refreshed and balanced with a healthy-looking glow.
Murad Time Release Acne Cleanser ($39)
This gentle acne cleanser uses sustained-release salicylic acid to help clear skin. It's great for those struggling with adult acne as it doubles as an anti-aging cleanser as well.
Kate Somerville EradiKate® Daily Cleanser Acne Treatment ($38)
This daily foaming acne cleanser is designed to clear skin without drying it out by using three percent sulfur to address acne and blemishes, draw out impurities, and target congested pores.
Fresh Soy Face Cleanser ($38)
Despite not being formulated with salicylic acid, this best-selling cleanser is still a viable option for those struggling with acne as it contains soy proteins that remove all traces of dirt and makeup without stripping skin of essential moisture.
Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm ($38)
Have you hopped on the cleansing balm train yet? Double-cleansing with a cleansing balm and traditional cleanser helps ensure that the skin is free of acne-causing agents and totally clean. Our go-to is Then I Met You's Living Cleansing Balm, which melts away oil-based impurities and delivers antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamin E to the skin.
