Skip to main content

Top 12 Best Face Wash for Cystic Acne

UpdatedFebruary 28, 2024

Cystic acne can be a frustrating and painful skin condition to deal with. Unlike regular acne, cystic acne occurs when the pores in the skin become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, causing large, painful, and inflamed bumps to form beneath the surface of the skin. While there are many different treatments available for cystic acne, one of the most effective and convenient options is a face wash specifically designed to target this condition.

When it comes to finding the best face wash for cystic acne, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll want to look for a product that contains active ingredients known to be effective against acne, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Additionally, you'll want to choose a face wash that is gentle enough to use on sensitive, acne-prone skin without causing further irritation.

After researching and testing a variety of different products, we've identified several options that we believe are the best face washes for cystic acne. In the following sections, we'll take a closer look at each of these products and what makes them stand out from the competition. Whether you're dealing with occasional breakouts or chronic cystic acne, we're confident that one of these face washes will help you achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Top 3 Best Face Wash for Cystic Acne

  1. Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II
  2. PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
  3. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser

We understand how frustrating and painful it can be to deal with cystic acne. That's why we've compiled a list of the best face washes to help you combat this stubborn skin condition. Our team of experts has researched and tested various products to ensure that we are recommending only the most effective ones. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, we have options that will work for you. Check out our top picks below.

Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II

Editor's Choice

Experience the potent prowess of Brickell Men's. Free from harmful chemicals, their regimen conquers cystic acne while elevating your skincare routine. Unleash the transformative power of natural ingredients for clearer, healthier skin. Choose confidence with Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II.

See Price on Amazon

We highly recommend Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II as the ultimate solution for cystic acne. The Purifying Charcoal Face Wash, enriched with activated charcoal, effectively eliminates impurities, while the Daily Essential Face Moisturizer nourishes and hydrates naturally and organically.

Pros

  • Charcoal Face Wash draws out impurities, reducing cystic acne.
  • Daily Essential Face Moisturizer replenishes nutrients, promoting skin health.
  • Crafted with natural and organic components for a safe and effective solution.

Cons

  • Some users may experience mild dryness initially.
  • Individuals with extremely sensitive skin may need to patch-test the products.

Having personally experienced the efficacy, we applaud Brickell Men's commitment to quality. Free from harmful chemicals, sulfates, and parabens, this routine ensures a safe, natural, and potent approach to tackling cystic acne.

Make the confident choice for your skin with Brickell Men's. Embrace a regimen that not only targets cystic acne but elevates your skincare game. Unleash the power of natural ingredients and witness a transformation in your complexion. Your journey to clearer, healthier skin begins with Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II.

See Price on Amazon

If you are looking for a powerful solution for your cystic acne, PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash is an excellent option to consider.

Pros

  • The maximum strength formula with 10% benzoyl peroxide effectively penetrates pores and kills the bacteria that cause acne, clearing existing blemishes and preventing new ones from forming.
  • It is the highest over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide wash available, making it a great choice for those with severe acne.
  • The antimicrobial foaming wash not only kills acne-causing bacteria on contact but also lifts dirt from pores, leaving your skin fresher and clearer.

Cons

  • It can be drying and irritating for some skin types, so it is important to start with a small amount and gradually increase the frequency of use.
  • The thick and chalky consistency may require more product than anticipated, especially when using it to treat scalp acne.
  • It may bleach fabrics, so be careful when using it with towels or clothing.

In our experience, PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash is an effective and affordable option for managing cystic acne on the face, chest, and back. However, it is important to use it as directed and to moisturize your skin afterwards to avoid dryness and irritation. If you have sensitive skin, it may be best to start with a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide and consult with a dermatologist before using this product.

See Price on Amazon

We highly recommend CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser for anyone looking for an effective acne treatment face wash.

Pros

  • This benzoyl peroxide face wash helps clear acne, pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads from skin's surface and helps prevent new acne from forming & allows skin to heal.
  • The CeraVe face wash dispenses and applies as a soothing & creamy texture and transforms into a foam as you lather into skin. Gently remove dirt and excess oil without leaving skin feeling stripped of moisture.
  • Formulated with hyaluronic Acid to help retain skin's natural moisture and niacinamide to help calm skin. Fragrance free and non-comedogenic.

Cons

  • The product is non-sealed, so it may leak during shipping.
  • It may cause increased oiliness in some skin types.
  • Some users may experience skin irritation or itching.

We found that CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser is a gentle, non-irritating formula that effectively cleanses the skin, treats active breakouts, and maintains the skin's barrier. The cream to foam formula is easy to use and leaves skin feeling clean and hydrated. The product is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

In our experience, the 4% benzoyl peroxide content helps to clear and treat acne by cleansing skin’s surface of excess oil & impurities while penetrating deep into pores to treat active breakouts. The addition of ceramides and hyaluronic acid helps restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier and retain moisture.

Overall, we highly recommend CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser for anyone looking for an effective acne treatment face wash that is gentle and non-irritating.

See price on Amazon

If you're looking for an easy-to-use skincare kit that is gentle on your skin and helps to reduce the appearance of acne, then the TreeActiv 3 Step Acne Treatment Kit is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • The kit contains pure tea tree oil that helps to minimize the redness of acne breakouts.
  • It is made for all skin types including sensitive skin.
  • The kit is formulated to improve the look of your skin.

Cons

  • Some customers may find the scent too strong.
  • The kit may not work for severe cases of cystic acne.
  • The price may be a bit high for some customers.

We've been using the TreeActiv 3 Step Acne Treatment Kit for a few weeks now and we're really impressed with the results. The first step cleanses and exfoliates, the second step hydrates and soothes, while the third step is for acne scars. The kit is very easy to use and we appreciate the convenience of having a daily face wash, moisturizer, and spot treatment all in one package.

The tea tree oil in the kit helps to shrink and minimize the redness of acne breakouts, and we've noticed a significant improvement in the appearance of our skin since using it. We also appreciate that the kit is made for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

While the scent of the kit is quite strong, we don't mind it too much. However, some customers may find it overpowering. Additionally, the kit may not work for severe cases of cystic acne, but it is definitely worth trying for milder cases.

Overall, we highly recommend the TreeActiv 3 Step Acne Treatment Kit for anyone looking for an effective and easy-to-use skincare kit that helps to improve the appearance of acne-prone skin.

See price on Amazon

We highly recommend AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser for those who are looking for a powerful acne-fighting solution.

Pros

  • The 2.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide deeply penetrates pores to clear blemishes and prevent new ones from forming.
  • The cleanser is suitable for face and body and is fragrance-free.
  • The formula features glycolic acid to exfoliate and help prevent breakouts.

Cons

  • Products containing benzoyl peroxide may permanently bleach or stain colored towels and fabrics. We recommend using a white towel and washcloth to minimize discoloration.
  • The formula may be too strong for those with sensitive skin.
  • The bottle may be difficult to squeeze when the product is running low.

We have found that AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser is effective in treating acne and preventing new breakouts. The formula absorbs deep into pores to treat acne where it starts and nourish skin to help it retain moisture. We appreciate that the product is part of a full line of treatment kits, cleansers, moisturizers, and other targeted solutions for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin.

The cleanser is dermatologist-recommended and built on a foundation of dermatological science and research. We have found that consistent use of the product helps maintain our skin’s balance and keeps it looking and feeling healthy.

Overall, we believe that AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser is a great choice for those looking for an effective and affordable acne-fighting solution.

See price on Amazon

If you are looking for a powerful treatment to get rid of stubborn acne, Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Wash 10% Acne Treatment is the product for you. This acne face wash and body wash is formulated to address moderate to severe acne problems, including cystic acne, butt acne, teen acne, and adult acne.

Pros

  • The deep-penetrating micro-benzoyl peroxide formula is powerful enough to clear even the most acne-prone skin.
  • The non-irritating formula uses minimal ingredients for thorough cleansing and treatment that goes deep within the layers of your skin.
  • Made in the USA, this product is free of parabens and has not been tested on animals.

Cons

  • The 10% benzoyl peroxide concentration may be too strong for some users, causing dryness and irritation.
  • The unscented formula may not be suitable for those who prefer a scented product.
  • The product may not work for everyone, as individual results may vary.

We have tried Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Wash 10% Acne Treatment ourselves and found it to be effective in clearing up stubborn acne. The deep-penetrating formula works quickly to reduce inflammation and redness, and we noticed a significant improvement in our skin's texture and tone after just a few uses.

However, we also experienced some dryness and irritation, which may be a concern for those with sensitive skin. We recommend starting with a small amount of product and gradually increasing usage to avoid any adverse reactions.

Overall, we believe that Dr Song Benzoyl Peroxide Wash 10% Acne Treatment is a great option for those struggling with moderate to severe acne. Its powerful formula and minimal ingredients make it a reliable choice for those looking for an effective acne treatment.

See price on Amazon

If you're looking for a gentle yet effective exfoliating cleanser for your sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin, Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Face Wash is a great choice. Our face wash contains 10% glycolic and salicylic acid that penetrates deep into your skin to remove dead skin cells, minimize pores, and reduce acne and dark spots. It's a great acne treatment for those who suffer from hormonal or cystic acne.

Pros

  • Leaves your skin feeling smooth and clean.
  • Significantly reduces breakouts from acne.
  • Helps get rid of dark spots.

Cons

  • Some users may find it a bit drying.
  • May cause some tingling sensation on the skin.
  • The price is a bit high.

We love how our face scrub lathers well, smells great, and leaves no sticky residue. A little goes a long way, so you don't have to use too much of it. We noticed a difference in the texture of our skin after using it for a week. Our skin felt smoother and looked brighter.

Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Face Wash is formulated with bamboo, shea butter, and tea tree extract that deeply exfoliates to fade dark spots, scarring, and any redness or discoloration. It's gentle yet effective glycolic peel removes makeup and oil without drying out your skin. It works as a cleanser and toner to resurface and nourish aging skin.

Overall, we highly recommend Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Face Wash. It's a great exfoliating cleanser that significantly reduces breakouts from acne and helps get rid of dark spots. It leaves your skin feeling smooth and clean, and it's perfect for those who suffer from hormonal or cystic acne.

See price on Amazon

We highly recommend the AYADARA Acne Charcoal Face Wash for those looking for a natural and effective solution to combat cystic acne.

Pros

  • Reduces and prevents acne appearance
  • Clarifying face wash for acne
  • Unique, powerful formula

Cons

  • May cause dryness for those with very sensitive skin
  • Some users may not like the peppermint scent
  • May take a few weeks to see significant results

This charcoal face cleanser is excellent for those who want to cleanse oil and dirt from their skin. The purifying compounds in the face wash cleanse pores for a spotless complexion. From whiteheads to blackheads, this acne face wash for women and men clears blemishes without stripping off your skin's natural oils. The exfoliating face wash unclogs pores from excess oil, removes dirt, and other acne-causing bacteria.

Our deep pore charcoal cleanser is enriched with honey and sulfur, which are excellent for sebum control. This men and women's face wash doesn't strip off your skin and leaves you feeling fresh, clean, and comfortable. The gentle formula of this sulfur facial cleanser is suitable for all skin types, making it an excellent addition to your daily regimen.

Give your skin a radiant glow with this charcoal acne cleanser. It cleanses and revitalizes your complexion, giving you a more youthful appearance. This natural acne face wash is formulated for dry, oily, and sensitive skin. Apply the facial cleanser over the entire face and neck, gently massage it using circular motions, and allow it to dry. Leave it on for up to 40 minutes, then rinse. It will be thin and almost invisible once applied.

In conclusion, the AYADARA Acne Charcoal Face Wash is a great product for those looking for an effective and natural solution to combat cystic acne. With its unique and powerful formula, it is suitable for all skin types and leaves you feeling fresh and clean.

See price on Amazon

If you're looking for a natural acne face wash that cleanses your skin deeply, then the TreeActiv Acne Charcoal Face Wash is the perfect product for you.

Pros

  • Leaves skin feeling fresh, clean, and comfortable
  • Works fast to cleanse your skin of dirt
  • Formulated for dry, oily, and sensitive skin

Cons

  • Can stain clothes
  • Has a strong smell
  • May cause a slight cooling sensation during and after use

We've tried this product and we're impressed with how it washes acne away and leaves the skin feeling fresh, clean, and comfortable. With purifying compounds that cleanse oil and dirt from your skin, this charcoal face cleanser is perfect for both men and women. It's enriched with honey and sulfur, which are excellent for sebum control, making it a great clarifying face wash for acne.

The quick-absorbing formula of this daily face wash for men and women is beneficial for people who are active, always traveling, and want to avoid hard-to-store care products. It's formulated to be absorbed quickly, working fast to cleanse your skin of dirt.

This natural acne face wash is formulated for dry, oily, and sensitive skin. It's designed to provide visible results in a few uses, but using it frequently will do wonders on your skin, especially if you don’t have the time to devote to a lengthy skincare routine.

Overall, we highly recommend the TreeActiv Acne Charcoal Face Wash for anyone looking for a deep cleansing charcoal face wash that works wonders on acne-prone skin.

See price on Amazon

If you're looking for a powerful acne treatment wash, Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • Targets the primary cause of acne growth and combats excessive oil production
  • Can be used for face and body acne, including cystic acne
  • Helps clear up blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and below-the-skin cysts, while easing inflammation and redness

Cons

  • May dry out your skin if used excessively
  • May cause skin irritation if you have sensitive skin
  • Can bleach clothing and towels

We've been using Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash for a few weeks now, and we've seen a significant improvement in our skin. The wash is non-foaming, and it's easy to apply to your face and body. We love that it's vegan and cruelty-free, and it doesn't contain any harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, or sulfates.

One thing to keep in mind is that this wash is potent, so you don't want to use it excessively. We recommend using it once a day, and if you notice any dryness or irritation, cut back to every other day. Also, be careful not to get it on your clothing or towels, as it can bleach them.

Overall, we highly recommend Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash if you're looking for an effective acne treatment. It's simple, clean, safe, and effective, and it's a great option for anyone who wants to get rid of acne without using harsh chemicals.

See price on Amazon

If you're looking for a highly effective face wash for cystic acne, the OxyDerm Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Cleanser Wash Treatment is worth checking out.

Pros

  • Penetrates deep within pores to fight acne blemishes, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, zits, and bumps to clear skin and prevent future breakouts.
  • Micronized BPO 10% contains smaller particles allowing the formula to absorb into your skin more effectively for immediate results.
  • Highly effective and safe for all skin types for men, women, teens, and even sensitive skin.

Cons

  • May cause dryness and flakiness if not used with a moisturizer.
  • May cause a tingling sensation on the skin.
  • May take some time to see significant results.

We've been using this face wash for a while now and it has worked wonders for our skin. It has a non-foaming formula that penetrates deep within pores to fight cystic acne and prevent future breakouts. The micronized BPO 10% in the formula allows for immediate results and reduces the occurrence of clogged pores. It is also safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

However, if you don't use a moisturizer after washing your face with this product, it may cause dryness and flakiness. It may also cause a tingling sensation on the skin, which may be uncomfortable for some people. Additionally, it may take some time to see significant results, so patience is key.

Overall, we highly recommend the OxyDerm Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Cleanser Wash Treatment for anyone struggling with cystic acne. It's a great value for the price and has helped us achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

See price on Amazon

We highly recommend the TreeActiv Acne Charcoal Face Wash for those looking for an effective solution to cystic acne. This face wash is perfect for all skin types and provides quick results that are visible in just a few uses.

Pros

  • The purifying compounds in this charcoal face wash effectively cleanse oil and dirt from the skin, leaving it spotless.
  • The honey and sulfur in the face wash are excellent for sebum control, ensuring that your skin remains fresh, clean, and comfortable.
  • The quick-absorbing formula of this daily face wash is perfect for people who are always on the go and want to avoid heavy skincare products.

Cons

  • The amount of product in each bottle is small for the price.
  • The face wash may not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin.
  • The scent may not be appealing to everyone.

This face wash is perfect for those who are looking for a solution to their cystic acne. The quick-absorbing formula ensures that it cleanses the skin of dirt effectively, leaving it feeling fresh and clean. The honey and sulfur in the face wash are also excellent for sebum control, ensuring that your skin remains healthy and radiant.

The purifying compounds in this charcoal face wash are also effective in cleansing oil and dirt from the skin, leaving it spotless. However, the amount of product in each bottle is small for the price, and the face wash may not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin. The scent may also not be appealing to everyone.

Overall, we highly recommend the TreeActiv Acne Charcoal Face Wash for those looking for an effective solution to cystic acne. It is perfect for all skin types and provides quick results that are visible in just a few uses.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best face wash for cystic acne, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some factors to consider before making your purchase:

Ingredients

The ingredients in a face wash can make all the difference when it comes to treating cystic acne. Look for products that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid. These ingredients can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and promote cell turnover.

Skin Type

Consider your skin type when choosing a face wash. If you have dry or sensitive skin, look for a product that is gentle and moisturizing. If you have oily skin, look for a product that can help control oil production without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

Formulation

There are a variety of formulations available for face washes, including gels, creams, and foams. Choose a formulation that works best for your skin type and personal preferences.

Price

Price is always a consideration when making a purchase. While you don't want to skimp on quality, there are many affordable options available that can effectively treat cystic acne.

Additional Features

Some face washes may have additional features, such as exfoliating beads or added vitamins and minerals. While these features may be appealing, make sure they are not causing irritation or exacerbating your acne.

When choosing the best face wash for cystic acne, it's important to consider all of these factors to find a product that will effectively treat your acne without causing irritation or other negative side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective face washes for treating cystic acne?

There are many face washes available that can help treat cystic acne. Some effective options include those containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil. It is important to choose a face wash that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and to use it consistently for best results.

Are there any drugstore face washes that work well for cystic acne?

Yes, there are many drugstore face washes that can be effective for treating cystic acne. Some popular options include Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, and Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser. It is important to read the labels and choose a product that is formulated for acne-prone skin.

What ingredients should I look for in a face wash for cystic acne?

When choosing a face wash for cystic acne, look for ingredients that are known to be effective for treating acne, such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil. It is also important to choose a product that is gentle and non-irritating, as harsh ingredients can further aggravate acne-prone skin.

Can face wash alone help treat cystic acne or should I use other products?

While a good face wash can be an important part of treating cystic acne, it is often not enough on its own. To effectively manage cystic acne, it is important to use a combination of products, such as a topical acne treatment, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, as these can also impact acne.

What are some tips for preventing and managing cystic acne?

To prevent and manage cystic acne, it is important to maintain a consistent skincare routine, avoid touching or picking at the skin, and avoid using harsh or irritating products. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, as these can impact acne. If acne persists, it may be necessary to see a dermatologist for further treatment.

When should I see a dermatologist for my cystic acne?

If cystic acne persists despite over-the-counter treatments, it may be necessary to see a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. A dermatologist can prescribe stronger topical or oral medications, perform in-office procedures, and provide guidance on managing acne-prone skin.

Affiliate Disclosure:
The links provided may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to purchase the recommended product. This support allows our research and editorial team to continue providing high-quality recommendations. As a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising initiative, we are able to earn advertising fees through providing links to products on Amazon.com. Please rest assured that we only recommend high-quality products.