Top 5 Acne Cleansers and Face Washes

Despite the fact that it is always better to opt for natural remedies (when possible), when it comes to facial cleansers, your best bet is to pick a natural based cleanser that has minimal chemicals and harmful or harsh ingredients. 

Here are my top 5 picks for the best acne cleansers and face washes available on the market.  (Based on my own personal experiences and trial and error etc.)

Basis Cleaner Clean Face Wash

Basis cleaner clean face wash is a gel based face wash that uses gentle botanicals like lemongrass and aloe vera to cleanse the skin without stripping it of it's natural oils. This cleanser is soap and oil free, which makes it an excellent option for breakout prone skin. This cleanser has a light lemony citrus scent but is not too heavily scented like some face washes. This cleanser is best for normal to oily skin. It creates a great lather that helps wash away makeup and other impurities without leaving the skin feeling dry and tight. This cleanser is reasonably priced in comparison to other well-known acne face washes. Typically it costs around $4.00, but the price may vary from store to store.

Simple Refreshing Facial Wash Gel

The Simple skincare product line is an excellent line for those with sensitive and breakout prone skin. The Simple Refreshing Facial Gel Wash is great for acne prone skin because it is non-comedogenic (it won't clog pores), fragrance free, oil free, soap free, and alcohol free. It also has essential vitamins (pro-vitamin B5) and minerals that help nourish your skin and prevent irritation. This product is effective for removing dirt, oil, and makeup and provides a good lather. It is on the pricier side and can run anywhere from $4.99 and up depending on the store. This cleanser is great for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.

Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser

This new line by Neutrogena provides excellent cleansing without the harsh chemicals found in other acne products. Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser clearly states that it contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes, or phthalates. It does contain a natural form of salicylic acid derived from Willowbark which is said to help detoxify the skin. This is a gel based formula that creates a nice thick lather to get rid of dirt, oil, and makeup. It does have a slightly heavy scent, which is attributed to the Willowbark. It can cost upwards of $5.00.

Basis Sensitive Skin Bar Soap

Here's another great facial cleanser by Basis. This is a bar soap for sensitive skin which utilizes soothing elements like chamomile and aloe vera extracts to sooth irritated and inflamed skin. While this is a very mild soap, it does create a great lather for thoroughly cleansed skin. It is best for oily or sensitive skin types. One bar can last several months and only costs around $1.97. It is an excellent option for those seeking clear skin on a tight budget.

Yes to Tomatoes Daily Clarifying Cleanser

Yes to Tomatoes Daily Clarifying Cleanser is made of 96% natural ingredients. This cleanser contains organic tomato extracts. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant which helps balance skin's PH levels for clear and healthy skin. It also contains watermelon extracts and sea minerals which help remove excess oil. It has a light fragrance that is not too overpowering. Other products by the 'Yes to' line include Yes to Cucumbers, Yes to Carrots, and Yes to Blueberries. This cleanser is a bit pricey and can run upwards of $8.00.