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10 Best Face Washes with Benzoyl Peroxide to Clear Acne
Dermatologists explain the benefits of benzoyl peroxide.
Benzoyl peroxide is a superstar weapon for treating acne. "It's an age-old ingredient that has known antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and non-comedogenic properties," says James Y Wang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Metropolis Dermatology. Its ability to decongest pores makes it great for blackheads and whiteheads, he adds. Benzoyl peroxide also lowers the levels of acne-causing bacteria in the skin and reduces inflammation, making it great for those angry red and inflamed pimples, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist.
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The downsides of benzoyl peroxide are that it can bleach dark fabrics and it's notoriously drying. However, these are easy enough to manage and worth doing so to get rid of pimples and breakouts. After you use a benzoyl peroxide formula, make sure to wash your hands (it's also a good idea to use white towels and pillowcases). If you experience dryness and irritation, consider a benzoyl peroxide face cleanser. "Wash-off benzoyl peroxide products are usually well-tolerated because there is shorter contact time on the skin," says Whitney Tolpinrud, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Curology medical director.
Benzoyl peroxide is available at concentrations ranging from 2.5 percent to 10 percent. "If your skin is dry, or you have never used benzoyl peroxide before, it is best to start with the lowest concentration and work your way up over time," suggests Wang. Generally speaking, though, any of these concentrations are acceptable for use. It all just depends on personal preference, says Tolpinrud. Ahead, we gathered dermatologist-recommend facial cleansers with benzoyl peroxide to add to your routine.
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength
Pros
- Affordable
Cons
- Can be drying if you have very sensitive skin
"This medicated cleanser contains maximum strength 10 percent benzoyl peroxide to optimize penetration into the skin," says Zeichner. "The formula effectively removes dirt without causing irritation."
Curology Acne Cleanser
Pros
- Minimizes dryness
Cons
- Not available at major retailers like Ulta or Sephora
Even though this cleanser contains the lowest concentration of benzoyl peroxide (2.5 percent), it's effective at targeting and preventing acne, and it's gentle, which is why Tolpinrud likes it. "It contains hydrating glycerin and soothing allantoin to help balance out the potentially drying effects of benzoyl peroxide," she says.
Replenix BP 5% Acne Wash
Pros
- Great for cystic pimples
Cons
- Can be drying
Tolpinrud also recommends this formula, which has 5 percent benzoyl peroxide. It's great for cystic and hormonal acne.
Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
Pros
- Prevents breakouts and oiliness
Cons
- If using as a mask, don't leave it on too long because it can cause dryness
If you're looking for a cleanser that's stocked at your local drugstore, try this one, says Tolpinrud. It can be used as a cleanser or intensive mask to help prevent breakouts, reduce excess oiliness, and treat existing acne.
Differin Acne Face Wash with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide
Differin Acne Face Wash with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide
Pros
- Contains glycerin to moisturize
Cons
- Contains fragrance
Wang says this formula, which contains 5 percent benzoyl peroxide, is great for mild to moderate acne. It's suitable for most skin types because it contains glycerin to counteract the potential drying effects of the active ingredient.
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
Pros
- Gentle formula
Cons
- Not suitable for rosacea or eczema-prone skin
Benzoyl peroxide targets acne while hyaluronic acid hydrates and ceramides protect the skin barrier. It also contains niacinamide to help with dark spots.
The Inkey List SuperSolutions 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser
The Inkey List SuperSolutions 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser
Pros
- Doesn't strip skin
Cons
- Small bottle
This non-foaming formula includes benzoyl peroxide, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin to clean the skin without stripping it of essential moisture.
PCA Skin BPO 5 Percent Cleanser
PCA Skin BPO 5 Percent Cleanser
Pros
- Soothes inflammation
Cons
Eliminate pimples and bumps while calming redness and inflammation thanks to soothing chamomile, cucumber, and nettle extracts.
Dr. Zenovia Skincare 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cleanser
Dr. Zenovia Skincare 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cleanser
Pros
- Promotes smooth and clear skin
Cons
- Can be drying on sensitive skin
Acne is no match for this clarifying formula that decongests clogged pores, removes excess sebum, and reduces the look of existing breakouts. It also contains a complex of vitamin E, green tea, and bakuchiol to boost hydration and skin clarity.
Naturium Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser
Pros
- Minimizes dryness
Cons
- A little runny
This formula is tough on acne but gentle on your skin because in addition to benzoyl peroxide, it contains N-acetyl glucosamine, a biocompatible amino sugar that helps minimize dryness.
Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok
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