If you have oily, acne-prone skin, starting your skin care routine off with the right cleanser can make a difference. If there’s any piece of advice we can offer, it’s to look for a formula that effectively and gently cleanses the skin without over-stripping it of moisture and natural oils. Bonus points if it also addresses while minimizing the risk for new ones.
Whether you’re a gel cleanser loyalist or a cream cleanser connoisseur, there’s a facial cleanser out there that’s perfect for your Find 13 formulas we love, ahead.
13 Best Cleansers for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
Best Cleanser for Acne-Prone Skin With Tea Tree Oil
Thayers Blemish Clearing Cleanser
Infused with tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and glycerin, this gel cleanser works to detox clogged pores and clear up blackheads and whiteheads. It also contains aloe vera to ensure that the skin feels moisturized and smooth after application.
Best Cleanser for Acne-Prone Skin With Benzoyl Peroxide
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
Try this foaming option, which contains 4% benzoyl peroxide, plus niacinamide and glycolic acid, to clear pimples and blackheads. The formula also lathers up into a foamy cream that will make it your new skincare staple.
Best Cleanser for Acne-Prone Skin and Large Pores
L'Oréal Paris 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleanser
A combo of glycolic and salicylic acids helps refine skin texture and make for smaller, less noticeable-looking pores over time. The non-drying formula gently yet effectively dissolves dead skin cells, keeping your pores from getting congested.
Best Gentle Cleanser for Oily Skin
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser
This no-frills oil-free cleanser is a classic pick for normal, oily and sensitive skin types. The fragrance-free formula lathers into a gentle foam that wipes out grime and makeup without disturbing your skin’s moisture balance.
Best Vegan Cleanser for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser
Formulated with 100% vegan ingredients and without parabens, phthalates and dimethicone, this cleanser was also made in the USA and comes in recyclable packaging. The best part, however, is the fragrant green gel, which is packed with a blend of (you guessed it) superfoods — including antioxidant-rich kale, spinach, and anti-inflammatory green tea.
Best Cleanser for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin
Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel
After just one wash with this cleanser, you should notice your skin looks less shiny. Over time, the blend of salicylic acid, zinc, and copper minerals helps clear skin and reduce the look of blackheads and blemishes.
