13 Best Salicylic Acid Cleansers In 2024 For Acne-Prone, Sensitive, And Oily Skin, Per Dermatologists

After a day of wearing makeup, sometimes all you want is a one-stop-shop to get it all off in a flash. This cleanser does that and more by deeply cleaning the skin with salicylic acid and centella asiatica. "Centella asiatica is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries," says dermatologist Divya Shokeen, MD. "When applied topically, it can help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reduce redness and inflammation, and promote skin healing."

Made specifically for acne, this cleanser contains a combination of two percent salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA). "This is a great option if you're looking to reduce blackheads," Dr. Garshick says, adding that it's gentle enough to be used daily to help reduce breakouts and clogged skin. "It's also a good option for those who want to avoid a scrub."

I'm not usually one to like a cream cleanser, but this one has won me over time and time again (seriously, I think I've bought it 10 times). Although it's super thick and creamy when it comes out of the bottle, it transforms into a luscious foam when applied to the skin. Once you wash it off, you see and feel the effects of the deep-cleansing salicylic acid—your face will have that fresh-looking shine, but it won't feel dry or stripped.

Send oily skin packing with Tata Harper's cult-classic cleanser. "This cleanser contains a blend of natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as lactic acid and citrus enzymes, as well as salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts," says Dr. Shokeen. No wonder it's an editor favorite!

If you have inflamed acne anywhere on your body, Dr. Marcus suggests looking for a wash that has both clearing and soothing ingredients. "I like to use Beauty Pie's AcidEnzyme Cleanser, which combines two percent salicylic acid for acne clearing with papaya enzyme for smoothing and brightening without irritation. It also has oat extract to soothe inflamed skin."

This cult-classic cleanser has been around for years, and there's no question why people still love it. "This acne wash uses Microclear technology to improve delivery of the active ingredients (hi, salicylic acid) and to help reduce blackheads and breakouts," Dr. Garshick explains. It also won’t clog the pores and can be used once or twice daily on the face and body, she says.

When I had seriously bad acne, this became my go-to face wash. I found that it soothed my red, irritated blemishes, but it also removed the day's impurities and left my skin feeling exfoliated and bright. Whenever I have a little breakout or my skin is having a rough week, I reach for this staple (she has a forever home under my sink in case of emergency).

This cleanser features what I like to call the acid trifecta: salicylic, lactic, and glycolic. "When these acids are combined into one, several different skin types and concerns can be addressed, making it a very versatile product," says Dr. Glodney. "I like to use combination products on my patients with hormonal acne who tend to have a combination of acne and melasma (hormonal hyperpigmentation)."

In need of some solid sloughing without the irritation? This cleanser leaves my skin feeling nice and exfoliated without exacerbating existing blemishes. It's perfect for when I'm struggling with red, irritated skin, but still want that shiny, just-left-the-salon glow after washing my face.

If we know anything about this face wash, it's that it comes highly recommended by dermatologists and editors alike, and Dr. Garshick is no exception. "This acne wash helps reduce breakouts and gently exfoliates the skin with oil-absorbing hectorite clay," she says. "Along with salicylic acid, it's also formulated with niacinamide and ceramides to ensure the skin isn't left feeling dry or irritated."

Sometimes, you need a face wash that fits every need, and this one does just that. It works across all skin types, it gets down and dirty on acne and blemishes, it hydrates the barrier, and it supports the growth of healthy skin tissue. Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, it's also super affordable, so you don't have to feel bad about running out (I promise, you'll want to re-purchase).

From actress Millie Bobby Brown's brand florence by mills, this face wash helps to soothe stressed skin and visibly minimize pores. With help from the acid trifecta (lactic, glycolic, salicylic) and lavender oil, your skin will not only be less irritated, but super glowy and bright, too.

Dr. Rubin is co-founder and chief medical officer of skin care brand Fig.1, and this is one of her favorite products in the line. "This cleanser contains a combination of both alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids, so you get a really well-rounded but also gentle exfoliation," she explains. It's also refillable, so it's great for your skin and the earth.