Best face wash for sensitive acne prone skin

Is it just us or does acne always seem to pop up at the worst times? Whether you're a teenager or well into adulthood, acne can happen to just about anyone and adult acne is more common than you would think.

Despite the fact that you may not "age out" of acne, the good news is that you don't have to simply accept pesky pimples and redness as a part of life. The right cleanser and a balanced skin care routine can help nip blemishes in the bud before they become unmanageable.

We asked top dermatologists to share their favorite face wash picks that help combat acne and oily skin. Though you should consult your own dermatologist prior to starting any new skin care routine, this list should help you along the way.

Best face washes for acne, according to dermatologists

Bioré Charcoal Acne Clearing Cleanser

"The winning combination of salicylic acid and purifying charcoal works to clean out oil and bacteria, while the cooling sensation leaves your face feeling super clean. Plus, the price can’t be beat!" said Dr. Howard Sobel, New York City-based dermatologist and founder of Sobel Skin Rx.

First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Deep Cleanser

"This foaming gel cleanser combines red clay and rosemary leaf oil to help cleanse the skin and absorb excess sebum. As an added bonus, it also contains a blend of botanical antioxidants (licorice root, feverfew and white tea)," said Dr. Dendy Engelman, a dermatologist based in New York City.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

"The use of two percent salicylic acid ensures a quick exfoliation within the pores, where acne develops. In addition, the lipohydroxy acid takes a longer term approach, diving deeper within the pore and causing a more gentle exfoliation that develops over days and does not increase dryness or irritation. This 'turtle and hare' approach makes a lot of sense, since acne is a chronic disease that requires consistent, well-tolerated treatment," said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ted Lain.

Philosophy Purity Made Simple Cleanser

"This face wash cleanses pores, but does not leave skin dry. It moisturizes the skin and is good for all types," said celebrity cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank.

Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser

"Glycerin, a potent humectant, helps to maintain moisture despite the foaming action. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, helps cell turnover in the pores to help clear blackheads and whiteheads and reduce the formation of new ones. Last but not least, this cleanser's soy complex helps reduce dryness, irritation and redness associated with acne treatments and salicylic acid," said Dr. Heidi A. Waldorf of Waldorf Dermatology Aesthetics.

Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser

"Sulfur is a great antiseptic and clears the redness in acne. It can smell and irritate the skin, but the soothing oats and honey in this cleanser help prevent these two potential issues," said Dr. Patrick Blake, dermatologist at cosmetic concierge Portrait and voluntary clinical instructor at UCSD.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne and Redness Facial Cleanser

"This lightweight cleanser helps boost the delivery of salicylic acid to help reduce the appearance of acne. Aloe and chamomile help to calm irritation while visibly reducing facial redness," Sobel said.

Proactiv Renewing Cleanser

"With this product, Proactiv uses a micronized version of benzoyl peroxide, a mainstay acne treatment, which allows the ingredient to have beneficial effects at a low 2.5 percent concentration. The addition of hydrating hyaluronic acid and calming chamomile minimizes inflammation or irritation," Lain said.

Cetaphil DermaControl Foam Wash

"It has an instant impact on oily, overly shiny skin that many people with acne have, giving more of a matte appearance. Also, it's inexpensive and rarely causes irritation," Blake said.

EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser

"This is a super gentle cleanser that is great for patients who have acne but also have sensitive, dry skin and are on other topical acne treatments. It does not contain any active anti-acne ingredients, so it does not cause any level of irritation to the skin when other acne medications are applied," said Dr. Julia Tzu, founder and medical director of Wall Street Dermatology.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

"This cleanser contains salicylic acid which has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It also exfoliates, and unclogs the pores, eliminating whiteheads and blackheads," said New York City-based, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

For more stories like this, check out:

• Your lips need sun protection, too — dermatologists tell us why
• This compact beauty product will become a summer staple if you have oily skin
• Struggling with back acne? Dermatologists share treatment tips
• Bakuchiol: How the retinol alternative works and what items to try
• Your underarms deserve some love — refresh your routine with these expert tips

Subscribe to our Stuff We Love and One Great Find newsletters, and download our TODAY app to discover deals, shopping tips, budget-friendly product recommendations and more!

Chrissy Callahan covers a range of topics for TODAY.com, including fashion, beauty, pop culture and food. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, watching bad reality TV and consuming copious amounts of cookie dough.

Which Facewash is best for sensitive skin?

What helps sensitive acne

Which face wash is best for acne and pimples?

What is the number 1 dermatologist recommended face wash?