Best cleanser for combination skin with blackheads

Anyone who has dealt with blackheads knows how difficult it can be to get them off your skin, especially without the best face wash for blackheads in your cleansing kit. Even if you succeed in getting rid of them using regular products, they often return with vengeance. That’s why a more appropriate solution is needed, such as the finest blackhead face cleanser designed and formulated specifically for the purpose. “Yes, using a face wash is a great way to treat and prevent blackheads by eliminating clogged pores,” says Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lucy Chen.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 face washes designed to eliminate blackheads in this article. Take a look.

1. Best For Daily Use:Biore Charcoal Acne Clearing Cleanser

Product Claims

The Biore Charcoal Acne Clearing Cleanser deep cleans, penetrates pores, and absorbs excess oil from oily skin without irritating and drying it. It is developed with skin-purifying technology and contains charcoal, known for its oil-absorbing properties, and acne-fighting salicylic acid. These ingredients not only treat existing acne but also prevent future breakouts by deep cleansing your pores. This video will provide you with added insights about the product.

Dr. Marie Jhin, a California-based dermatologist, recommends using this product. She says, “This product can help remove excess oil.”

Key Ingredients: Charcoal and Salicylic acid

Pros

•  Ideal for daily use
•  No greasy residue
•  Oil-free
•  Dermatologist-tested
•  Paraben-free
•  Travel-friendly packaging
•  Pleasant fragrance

Cons

• Contains SLES

2. Best Non-Drying Formula:Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser

Product Claims

The Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser contains 2.5% glycolic acid, willow bark, and jojoba beads that decongest clogged pores and remove dead skin, dirt, and oil buildup. The formula also contains kojic acid, and the plant-based oils in it nourish and moisturize your skin while getting rid of excess grime. As a result, this gentle face wash effectively reduces age spots, dark spots, sun spots, and other forms of discoloration while helping with acne, acne scars, and premature aging. It is suitable for all skin types. Take a look at this video to know more about the product.

Note: Glycolic acid makes the skin sun-sensitive. Use sunblock and protective clothing when going out.

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, 2.5% Glycolic acid, Willow bark, Jojoba beads, Organic olive oil, and Cucumber

Pros

•  Mild fragrance
•  Non-drying
•  No added perfume
•  Cruelty-free

Cons

None

3. Best For Travel:COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Product Claims

The COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is formulated using purified botanical ingredients that soothe, refresh, and soften your skin without stripping it of essential moisture. This mildly acidic, gel-based cleanser effectively cleanses excess sebum without irritating or drying out your skin. In addition, the BHA (betaine salicylate) helps gently wash away all the impurities on your skin, and tea tree oil soothes irritated skin. This product is ideal for daily use and suitable for all skin types. You may check more about this product in this video.

Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil and 0.5% Betaine salicylate

Pros

•  SLS-free
•  Paraben-free
•  Low pH
•  Non-drying
•  Long-lasting
•  Travel-friendly packaging

Cons

•  May cause breakouts
•  May leave behind a sticky residue

4. Best Paraben-Free Formula:ArtNaturals Clarifying Face Wash

The ArtNaturals Clarifying Face Wash contains natural fatty acids that deep clean and exfoliate your skin without causing redness, flaking, or drying. It also contains aloe vera and extracts of cucumber and seaweed that soothe inflamed skin and promote healing. The natural acids in the formula penetrate deep into your skin to clean and refine pores to prevent blackheads. The face wash is best for oily skin and ideal for daily use.

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Cucumber, and Seaweed extracts

Pros

•  Non-drying
•  Paraben-free
•  Sulfate-free
•  Gluten-free
•  Cruelty-free

Cons

•  Contains added fragrance
•  May cause breakouts

5. Best For Sensitive Skin:Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalising Cleanser

Product Claims

The Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser has a gel-based formula that gently cleanses the skin without causing any irritation. It is formulated with salicylic acid that effectively dissolves pore-clogging impurities, preventing blackheads and breakouts. It also removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup, while arginine calms down redness and irritation.

The provitamin B5 in the formula absorbs moisture from the air to keep your skin intensely hydrated. It also even tones your skin, leaving it fresh and radiant. The product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Provitamin B5, and Arginine

Pros

•  Cruelty-free
•  Paraben-free
•  Fragrance-free
•  100% recyclable

Cons

•  May dry your skin out

6. Best Oil-Free Formula:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

Product Claims

The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is formulated with salicylic acid, a proven ingredient for acne management. It targets excess oil, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads to give you clear skin. The face wash is clinically tested to reduce excess surface oil by up to 47%. Its exclusive micro-exfoliating Lipo Hydroxy Acid targets oily areas on the skin surface to provide precise cell-by-cell removal of debris and dirt. The product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and can be used daily.

UK-based dermatologist Dr. Shaaira Nasir, MB BCh BAO, MRCPI, MRCPUK (Dermatology), says, “Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid, which means it is oil-soluble and will be able to penetrate deep into pores for a thorough cleanse. This is one of the best ingredients to look out for in cleansers for those with oily skin and blackheads.”

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid

Pros

•  Allergy-tested
•  Dermatologist-tested
•  Oil-free
•  Fragrance-free
•  Paraben-free

Cons

•  Contains SLES
•  May dry your skin out
•  May cause breakouts

7. Best Non-Comedogenic Formula:Replenix Acne Solutions Gly/Sal 10-2 Cleanser

Product Claims

The Replenix Acne Solutions Gly/Sal 10-2 Cleanser pairs 10% glycolic acid with 2% salicylic acid to help clear acne from sensitive skin. The Gly-Sal acne treatment removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and regulates oil production without drying out your skin. This exfoliating cleanser removes buildup, keeping your complexion free of breakouts, blemishes, and other signs of acne. In addition, soothing green tea extract in the formula calms the skin and prevents free radical damage.

Dr. Marie Jhin, a California-based dermatologist, says, “The glycolic and salicylic acid help remove dead cells in your pores AKA as blackheads.”

Key Ingredients: 10% Glycolic acid and 2% Salicylic acid

Pros

•  Paraben-free
•  Sulfate-free
•  Oil-free
•  Non-comedogenic

Cons

•  May cause dryness and temporary irritation

8. Best Lightweight Formula:LAVO Clarifying Facial Cleanser

Product Claims

This lightweight facial cleanser has a water-based formula that cleanses your skin of impurities, excess oil, and dirt, leaving it super soft and smooth. It is enriched with natural ingredients like papaya, lavender, and pineapple extracts. It also works as a makeup remover, thoroughly dissolving and removing your makeup without stripping your skin of its natural oils. The well-balanced formula of this cleanser makes it safe for daily use and suitable for all skin types.

Key Ingredients: Papaya, Lavender extract, and Pineapple

Pros

•  Lightweight
•  Non-greasy
•  Cruelty-free
•  No harmful chemicals

Cons

None

9. Best Cruelty-Free Product:Pure Biology Facial Cleanser

Product Claims

The Pure Biology Facial Cleanser is formulated with botanical extracts and natural essential oils. The blend has sage, dill, lemon peel, rosemary, and lemongrass oil to clean your pores and prevent acne and blackhead formation. They also brighten up your complexion without stripping off the skin’s natural moisture.

The sodium hyaluronate in the formula hydrates the skin, leaving it balanced and healthy. The product is developed with FisionWrinkleFix technology. It helps reduce inflammation and dark spots and tightens fine lines for a youthful skin tone. The face wash suits all skin types.

Key Ingredients: Lemongrass oil, Rosemary oil, Clary sage oil, Lemon peel oil, and Sodium hyaluronate

Pros

•  Paraben-free
•  GMO-free
•  Cruelty-free

Cons

•  May cause dryness

10. Best Foaming Formula:WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Exfoliating Face Wash

The WOW Skin Science Vitamin C Exfoliating Face Wash has a foaming formula and a unique built-in brush for easy application and deep cleansing of the pores. It is infused with active vitamin C to combat free radicals, orange and lemon essential oils to restore the skin radiance, and licorice and mulberry extracts to reduce dark spots and even out your skin tone. It effectively removes all the dead skin cells to improve skin texture and keep it fresh and clean after every use.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Orange and lemon essential oils, Licorice, and Mulberry extracts

Pros

•  Built-in brush applicator
•  Paraben-free
•  Sulfate-free
•  Mineral oil-free
•  Gluten-free
•  Vegan
•  Dermatologist-tested

Cons

None

Cleaning your face regularly with cleansers containing active ingredients keeps blackheads at bay. However, blackhead recurrence also depends on your daily skin care and lifestyle habits. Here are a few dos and don’ts to consider before using face wash for blackheads.

Blackheads Removal: Things To Consider

Dos

•  Choose a gentle face wash that is specifically formulated for your skin type.
•  Always use non-comedogenic makeup and skin care products.
•  Cleanse your skin consistently according to the recommended schedule.
•  Consult a dermatologist immediately if your skin does not respond to OTC products.

Don’ts

•  Scrub your face often or use harsh exfoliants.
•  Cleanse your skin more than twice a day.
•  Use products that contain known irritants, such as alcohol and fragrances, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin.

Jennifer Haley, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “It’s important not to overdo it. If you use too much of any cleanser on your skin, you’ll irritate it, and it will take more time to improve your skin condition. If you want to remove blackheads, think about starting a new skin routine. A twice-daily gentle skin cleanser will help remove dirt from the skin and unblock pores. Also, think about applying topical applications like tea tree oil, AHA, or salicylic acid to your skin. These products may help break up the oil that leads to blackheads.”

Dr. Chen expresses similar views. She says, “Try to use face washes with salicylic acid, which breaks down excess oil and dead skin cells.” She also suggests, “Wash your face twice a day, every day, but when starting to use a new product, start with only once a day while your skin gets used to it.”

Getting rid of blackheads can be tricky. But with routine exfoliation using the best face wash for blackheads, you can keep those pesky dots at bay. If you are looking for a good exfoliating cleanser, you can try the Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser. The Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalising Cleanser is ideal for all skin types. For deep cleansing and clarifying, use the ArtNaturals Clarifying Face Wash. Go ahead and give these face washes a chance and see the difference for yourself.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, a certified skin care coach, believes that picking the right cleanser is the first step to dealing with blackheads. She has been trying out different formulas for her acne and blackhead issues before zeroing in on Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalising Cleanser – a product she absolutely loves. She consulted experts and scoured through hundreds of reviews before picking the best ones for her readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can face wash remove blackheads?

Yes, face washes with salicylic acid are the best to treat blackheads.

Do blackheads go away naturally?

No. Blackheads do go away naturally unless treated with extraction tools and pore cleansing products.

How do you wash your face to prevent blackheads?

To prevent blackheads, wash your face with a mild cleanser twice daily.

What happens if I don’t remove blackheads?

If you do not extract blackheads, the pores may get infected, leading to inflammation and acne.

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Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skincare... more