Skincare products are gracing the markets with their innovative ingredients and claims, but choosing which one is the best for your skin can be quite challenging! If you are looking for a face wash that can help you eliminate pimples, we got your back!
Men and women deal with pimples, and they never cease to exist! After treating one area of acne effectively, you have another far more severe breakout just waiting to ruin your confidence and mental peace!
This article has listed the 10 best face washes for pimples that work. We have done a thorough research and consulted some of the best dermatologists to cumulate this list for you. We have also discussed a simple and effective way to test your skin type.
Best Face Wash for Pimples in India 2024
Himalaya Herbals Purifying Neem Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Are you afraid to try new things because of your sensitive skin? Himalaya Purifying Neem Face Wash may be your best bet. Since the face wash is free from experimental or harsh ingredients, it can be a safe place to start for every individual with any skin type.
One of the key ingredients in this face wash is Neem. Since ancient times, neem has made its mark in the arena of skincare and for good reasons. This green plant can help reduce the oil secretion on the skin that eventually forms a home for acne-causing bacterias, and that’s not all; it also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce scars and pimples. In a 2013 study, it was stated that prolonged use of neem reduces the occurrence of acne.
Another key ingredient, turmeric, is a remedy for multiple skin problems! Studies have shown that turmeric’s active ingredient, curcuminoids, can help fight acne-causing bacteria. These compounds can also soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. Furthermore, turmeric also helps in reducing hyperpigmentation and providing an even skin tone.
Fullers Earth is another excellent ingredient that can absorb excess sebum secretions and thus reduce the occurrence of pimples.
Highlights:
- Affordable and Effective
- Gentle On The Skin
- Free of Parabens
- Made from Herbal Ingredient
- Soap-free
- Cruelty-Free Testing
- Hypoallergenic
- Available in travel size packaging
WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.8/5
WOW Skin Science has slowly but surely established itself as a promising skincare brand with science-backed distinctive formulations. This particular face wash, for instance, has a unique blend of ingredients that can prevent acne whilst hydrating the cells and brightening the skin.
One of the active ingredients, apple cider vinegar (ACV), is a popular detoxifying agent. ACV is a mixture of organic acids like lactic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, malic acid, etc.; thus, it can positively influence the acidic pH of the skin. What does that do? Well, the acidic pH of the skin forms a barrier and helps keep pimples and acne-causing germs at bay. Additionally, apple cider vinegar’s antimicrobial and antifungal nature can help dry out already present pimples. ACV can also reduce clogged pores by promoting skin tightening. An all-rounder, don’t you think?
The facewash also contains aloe vera extracts and glycerine that elicit skin moisturizing effects. According to a 2016 study, glycerin is the most powerful humectant that promotes hydration and retains it! The aloe extracts present in this formulation have antioxidant properties that boost collagen production and promote skin elasticity. Hence, this is an excellent option if your skin type is dry.
Vitamin E and Vitamin C present in the facewash have skin healing and brightening properties. Vitamin E can promote repair by aiding in sealing skin pores. Vitamin C is an excellent radical scavenger that can reduce skin crises like redness, rashes, and acne.
This facewash has a brush-like applicator, making it more user-friendly and effective. The brush’s bristles have a moderate exfoliating influence that allows enhanced penetration and circulation.
If you are on the hunt for a gentle but effective oil control facewash that can be used daily, you can invest in this wash.
Highlights:
- Made from Natural Ingredients
- Affordable
- Free of parabens and mineral oil
- Hypoallergenic
- 100% Vegan
- Suitable for dry as well as oily skin
- Skin whitening effect
- Built-in brush applicator
- Cruelty-Free Testing
Bella Vita Organic Vitamin C Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Bella Vita Organic Vitamin C Face Wash is a wonderful mix of notable ingredients like sandalwood, coffee, lemon, and honey. Sandalwood can help relax skin irritation, subsiding lesions and evening out the skin tone. Furthermore, its astringent properties are useful in eliminating microbial growth on the skin. If you are a fan of the woody smell of sandalwood, you are in for a treat! A subtle, balsamic scent of sandalwood will permeate your senses every time you use it.
Coffee is a common DIY skincare ingredient owing to its antioxidant properties. In addition to that, Chlorogenic acid present in coffee grounds can reduce pimples and the associated scars.
Clogged pores are bad news because they can result in pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Honey is one of the best declogging agents that can effectively battle against the buildup of pollutants, oils and microbes on the skin. A natural moisturizer like honey does not strip your skin of its natural moisture and is therefore helpful in maintaining the supple glow of your skin.
Liquorice extract was once employed as an emulsifier. However, recent investigations have explored its wound healing, and anti-inflammatory qualities, making it a sort after compound for pimple-prone skin. The face wash also consists of Tulsi and Neem extracts that impart antimicrobial and antifungal benefits to the product.
If you do not have an issue with a scented face wash, you need to give this beauty a try!
Highlights:
- Made from Natural Ingredients
- Gentle Exfoliator
- Affordable
- Free of chemicals
- Hypoallergenic
- 100% Vegan
- Scar Lightening
- Cruelty-Free Testing
Mamaearth Tea Tree Natural Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.6/5
The prime ingredient of the face wash is tea tree oil which has remarkable benefits for the skin. Tea tree oil can boost the immune system by activating white blood cells that accelerate the process of skin repair and wound healing. According to studies, topical application of this oil can reduce acne and pimples due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Another key ingredient with a multitude range of benefits is allantoin. These extracts are widely used to soothe irritated skin. Furthermore, owing to its regenerative properties, it is used widely for acne and pimple-prone skins. It is a mild exfoliator that can simultaneously remove excess oil and hydrate the skin.
In this face wash, there is a floral scent accentuated by notes of lavender. If the floral smell is not something you enjoy, you might want to give it a hard pass.
Highlights:
- Suitable for all Skin Types
- Made from Natural Ingredients
- Floral Fragrance
- Affordable
- Paraben-Free
- Hypoallergenic
- Wound Healing
- Skin Regeneration
- Cruelty-Free Testing
Biotique Bio Papaya Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.6/5
If you are looking for a permanent cure for pimples with purely ayurvedic ingredients, this can be your go-to product. Papaya consists of proteolytic enzymes that can facilitate the breakout of keratin and other proteins that accumulate in the pores and result in bumps and inflammation. The vitamin C in this fruit can provide an instant glow by clearing dead skin cells. You have probably heard of the importance of retinol to the skin, and this fruit is packed with Vitamin A!
Soapnut is another versatile ingredient in this face wash that provides an overall benefit for your skin health. According to research, it is an excellent cleanser with potent antimicrobial and antifungal activities that can help clear out pimples and blackheads.
Another key ingredient in this formulation is a walnut shell. It is a rich source of polyphenols, omega-3, Vitamin E and Vitamin B, all of which can work together to provide you with healthy and pimple-free skin. Did I mention that walnut shell is an incredible exfoliant? Since walnut is an antioxidant, it can also help skin whitening and de-tanning.
However, because components like walnut and papaya may not suit all skin types, I would not recommend using this product without first conducting a patch test.
Highlights:
- Made from Natural Ingredients
- Affordable
- Paraben-Free
- Skin Whitening
- Mildly exfoliating
- Cruelty-Free Testing
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Salicylic Acid is an ingredient that dermatologists swear by for acne and pimple-prone skin. This acid is oil soluble; thus, it can penetrate oily skin and cleanse it from grits and grimes. Since it can clean pores, it exposes the pimple-causing bacteria’s to oxygen, thus weakening their activity. Additionally, salicylic acid is a sebocyte suppresser; thus, it can reduce oil secretion and prevent future breakouts and acne!
Aloe vera and propanediol impart the face cleanser with hydrating and calming properties. Both ingredients are potent humectants that prevent excessive skin drying that normally occurs when using exfoliators.
When you apply an active agent on your skin, such as chemical exfoliations, your skin’s turnover increases, resulting in purging. Purging is commonly confused with breakouts and pimples, but it is an indication that the product is working on your skin. As a result, don’t be alarmed if you notice a few bumps during the first two weeks of application.
It may not be a good choice for dry skin due to its oil suppression activities, but the result might be satisfactory if combined with a good moisturizer.
So all those individuals with an oily T zone looking for a long-term but effective solution can try this product.
Highlights:
- BHA exfoliator
- Multi-level cleansing
- Affordable
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free testing
- Sulphate free cleansers
- Hypoallergenic
- No fragrance
Plum Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Plum Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash took me by surprise! It is a hidden gem! I have to admit that I did not expect this product to be this effective.
Recent studies have suggested that green tea extracts can help reduce inflammation when applied topically. Hence, this face wash can be an answer to inflamed skin cells and pimples. Green tea is loaded with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). What does that do? According to research, this compound can subside acne and reduce the activity of sebaceous glands. Additionally, green tea extracts have antimicrobial and antibacterial activities that can prevent the occurrence of pimples and blackheads.
Glycolic acid is another important component of this face wash. Glycolic acid is an AHA chemical exfoliant that removes accumulated oil and dust by dissolving the connections between skin cells. Most of the chemical exfoliants leave the skin dry; however, glycolic acid repairs the outer layer of the skin and promotes collagen synthesis to facilitate smooth and replenished skin.
Since AHAs are mild exfoliators, they are relatively safer for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. If you are searching for a face wash that can help you get rid of pimples while also leaving you with healthy, soft, and revitalized skin, this is the one to go for.
Highlights:
- AHA exfoliator
- Multi-level cleansing
- Affordable
- It contains caffeine that can activate the skin cells
- Paraben-free
- Cellulose beads that promote exfoliation
- Cruelty-free testing
- Hypoallergenic
- No fragrance
- Travel-friendly packaging
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
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Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Another brand of skincare that dermatologists highly recommend is Cetaphil. It is pretty popular because, unlike conventional face washes that can alter your skin pH, this facewash focuses on maintaining the acidic pH of the skin.
The cleansing agent PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate in this face wash is very mild and is generally found in baby-friendly products. The best feature of this product is that while it is designed to remove oil from the skin, it also has compounds like glycerin, which assists the skin to retain moisture, so you will never feel dry after using it.
The gentleness of the product may not be able to treat existing acne or pimples, but it may help to clear and moisturize the skin to prevent their occurrence in the future. Even though this cleanser can suit all skin types, it is an expensive investment.
However, if you are someone struggling to find products that can reduce oil for sensitive skin, this can be worth the investment. Since all the ingredients used are tested and declared safe, this can be a boon for your skin!
Highlights:
- It suits every skin type
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free testing
- Mild cleanser
- Hypoallergenic
- No fragrance
- Dermatologically tested
- Soap-free formula
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash for Acne-Prone Skin With Salicylic Acid
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Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Neutrogena is a brand that needs no introduction because they make products that cater to every skin type and address almost every skin problem. This specific face wash is used to subside pimples and prevent breakouts.
The facewash uses microclear technology to clear the skin of irritation and acne. This approach combines oil-penetrating and dissolving ingredients alongside antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds in a seamless combination. Both components work together to guarantee that the pores are clear so that the medication can work efficiently on the skin.
One major drawback of this face wash is the flaking of the skin after application. Therefore, if you have dry skin, this face wash may not be as effective for oily or combination skin because it is oil-free.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly facewash, this may not fit the cut since it is on the higher end of the margin. However, one bottle can last for at least two months, considering that you only need a small dollop of the product to get flawless and radiating skin.
Highlights
- BHA Exfoliator
- Revolutionary Technology
- Paraben-Free
- Cruelty-Free Testing
- Sulphate Free Cleansers
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-Free
- User-friendly packaging
- Non-comedogenic
NIVEA Men Face Wash
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Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Activated charcoal is a renowned absorber of toxins, and thus it is another popular ingredient to include in DIY face masks. It is an excellent pore cleanser with antibacterial properties that can work towards reducing pimples. Since charcoal works by physically absorbing on the skin, make sure you massage this face wash gently in your skin for at least 30 seconds.
Another unique ingredient present in this face wash is menthol. It is responsible for delivering the cooling sensation that everyone who uses this face wash enjoys.
This face wash also consists of lauric acid, an effective antibacterial agent that can eliminate acne and pimple-causing bacteria. Additionally, this acid also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that can be very useful in reducing bumps and uneven skin texture.
Since the formulation is free from oils, it gives a non-greasy look after usage. Even though it is marketed for men, after using it for a month, I think it is safe to say that even women can try this facewash.
I would not recommend this for sensitive skin since charcoal is an ingredient that can trigger an unwanted response and cause redness and itching. Hence, a patch test will be an excellent idea to avoid accidents.
Highlights:
- Activated Charcoal
- Long-lasting oil control
- Skin brightening effect
- User-friendly packaging
- Non-comedogenic
- Refreshing because of menthol
- Antimicrobial effect
What is a Face Wash?
People often tend to undervalue the importance of facewash and consider soap as a replacement, but is that correct? Soap bars contain sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) that is widely used in detergents and floor cleaners due to their cleaning properties.
SDS interacts with covalent bonds that facilitate the breakdown of proteins. Thus, sing SDS on your face can disintegrate your skin cells by targeting skin proteins like keratin and collagen. That right there is bad news!
On the other hand, face washes are designed to facilitate the removal of oil, dust, dirt, grimes, dead cells, etc., without disturbing the epidermal layer of the skin. Since they are milder, they do not alter the skin’s pH balance and reinforce the skin’s lipid barrier to protect the skin cells from pollutants and other contaminants.
Since our skin is exposed to various challenges in UV Rays, microbes, polluting gasses, toxic fumes, we need to ensure that our facial skin is well looked after. To do that, we need to make sure we provide our skin with the required nutrients and moisture, and the easiest way to do that is via a face wash.
Let’s Get To Know Your Skin
I am sure you are now convinced that using a face wash will be an excellent idea. Wondering how to choose the best face wash for your skin? Let me help you! When purchasing a facewash, your skin type is the most important thing to consider.
If you don’t know your skin type, we are here to help! Listed below is a simple method that can help you understand the nature of your skin.
Method:
Step 1: Wash your face with a mild face cleanser to get rid of any residual makeup or dirt,
Step 2: Let your skin air dry.
Step 3: Once your skin is dry, use blotting paper or tissue paper gently tap in different areas of your skin.
Conclusion: If there are no greasy residues on the paper, your skin is probably dry. If you detect flaking or peeing after gently scraping your cheeks with silicone bristles, you can be assured that you have dry skin. If there is no flaking, you have a normal skin type.
You have combination skin if the paper only picked up oil from your nose and forehead. If the blotting paper becomes greasy after tapping on your cheeks, chin, nose, and forehead, you can consider your skin oily.
How to Choose the Best Face Wash for Your Skin Type?
Once you have identified your skin type, you can design your skincare routine and incorporate ingredients that will enhance the health of your skin positively.
1. Dry Skin
Dry skin is characterized by its dull appearance. The skin lacks moisture and oils and hence appears dehydrated and worn out. Such skin experiences early signs of ageing, including wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Dry skin can be genetic or can be caused due to environmental factors like overconsumption of caffeine or UV Ray damage.
Hence, a skin texture like this will need all the moisture it can get. When choosing a face wash, you should make sure you invest in one that has exceptional moisturizing properties.
One such ingredient to look for is hyaluronic acid. In a study involving dry skin, topical application of HA increased hydration by 96%.
Exfoliation agents like salicylic acid and benzoic acid should be avoided because they can strip the skin of its moisture. While investing in a face wash with exfoliating characteristics, be mindful of choosing one that has cooling and hydrating agents like aloe vera gel and honey as well.
2. Combination Skin
Combination skin is not too dry or oily; thus, the facewash should balance between dry areas and the greasy T zone. The most concerning area for such skin is the open pores present in the T zone that actively release sebum. As mentioned earlier, overproduction of sebum can clog pores, resulting in pimples and blackheads.
For such skin, the facewash should have mild exfoliating properties that can gently clear up the built-up contaminants without dehydrating the rest of the skin.
Exfoliating face washes with papaya extracts or chemical agents like glycolic acid can be an excellent choice to target the T zone. Glycolic acid can also act as a humectant and prevent water loss from the skin cells. Facewashes containing parabens, fragrances and alcohol should be avoided.
3. Oily Skin
Oily skin is characterized by enlarged pores that have active sebum-producing cells. These enlarged pores loaded with the oil trap dust, contaminants, microbes, etc., within them.
The accumulated dead cells interact with this oil and produce inflammation, resulting in pimples. Oxidation of the oil can result in the formation of resilient blackheads.
Because high sebum production is the main concern with this type of skin, the face wash should battle it. Oil-absorbing agents like fullers earth, charcoal, exfoliating agents, Vitamin C can be good ingredients for your face wash. Antimicrobials like neems, tulsi, and apple cider vinegar can eliminate pimples and acne-causing bacteria.
Avoid using face washes that have additional oils; it will aggravate greasiness on your skin. Exfoliating agents are commonly employed on such skin types; as a result, hydrate your skin by investing in a good moisturizer and humectant.
FAQs
Let us address some commonly asked questions.
1. When is the best time to use an exfoliating face wash?
Facewash can be used any time of the day; however, if your face wash has chemical exfoliants, it is advisable to use them at night before going to bed. It will ensure that all the accumulated dust and grim is clear and your skin can breathe and rejuvenate at night.
2. Is using a facewash enough for skin?
A good face wash can be a good investment to start your skincare. However, depending upon your skin’s requirements, you should plan a good routine that includes cleansing, toning, and moisturizing to get healthy and glowing skin.
3. Which ingredients should be avoided for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin needs to be dealt with utmost care. Harsh cleansers and chemical exfoliants should be avoided. Acids like citric acid, acetic acid and lactic acid should not be used since they can result in abrasion and rashes. The best way to ensure that the product is suitable for sensitive skin, one should perform a patch test before using the product directly on their face.
Takeaway
If you want to begin your face wash journey for pimples, the best option is Himalaya Purifying Neem Face Wash. Since it is an excellent combination of antimicrobial agents like neem and tulsi and anti-inflammatory agents like turmeric, it can give you satisfactory results.
If you are looking for something more powerful and experimental, you can take your pick from any of the products mentioned above. They all have well-researched ingredients that can give you the skin of your dreams.
I hope you found this article helpful. Don’t forget to tell us in the comment below if you found your ideal face wash.
Amina graduated from Mumbai University with a master’s degree in Biotechnology. Since her college days, she been fascinated by the rationale behind anything from cancer cells to cosmetic products. Her friends and family call her ‘The Myth Buster’.
To satiate her curiosity, she chose a profession that allows her to research and discuss interesting topics because she believes that knowledge is liberating. She is currently working as an educator, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Molecular Biology, Cosmeceuticals, and Immunology.
She is a makeup and fitness enthusiast and loves to try new products and techniques. Here at Drugresearch.in, she reviews and recommends products based on her personal experience.
