Salicylic acid face washes have become a popular choice for those looking to combat acne and achieve clearer skin. With numerous options available, finding the right brand can be overwhelming. Here, we explore some of the top-rated brands known for their effective salicylic acid formulations. Whether you're dealing with persistent breakouts or just want to maintain a clear complexion, the recommendations below could guide you towards the perfect product tailored to your skincare needs. Read on to discover our curated list of the best brands offering salicylic acid face washes.
Illustration of salicylic acid face wash
Best brands of salicylic acid face wash in 2025
Neutrogena
Neutrogena is a leading brand offering a variety of salicylic acid face washes, with their dermatologist-recommended Oil-Free Acne Wash containing 2% salicylic acid, which helps to clear acne and prevent future breakouts by deeply cleaning pores without over-drying the skin. Their Clear & Defend line also features a 2% salicylic acid formula, clinically proven to fight acne, and many of their products incorporate MicroClear technology to enhance the delivery of the acne-fighting medication. Additionally, some of their cleansers include soothing ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile extracts, and they have expanded their product range to include options for different skin types and concerns.
CeraVe
CeraVe is a well-regarded brand offering several salicylic acid face washes, including the Renewing SA Cleanser, known for its gentle exfoliation with salicylic acid, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, and the Acne Control Cleanser, which contains 2% salicylic acid, formulated to clear acne and reduce blackheads; CeraVe's cleansers are fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and cater to various skin needs, from smoothing rough skin to managing acne, and the SA Smoothing Cleanser contains 0.5% salicylic acid. These products are available in various sizes, and it is recommended to check the packaging for the most up-to-date information on ingredient percentages and formulations, as they may vary.
La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay is a top-tier brand for salicylic acid face washes, with their Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser containing 2% salicylic acid, which is clinically proven to reduce excess oil by up to 47%, effectively targeting acne, blackheads, and whiteheads; this dermatologist-developed formula also includes micro-exfoliating Lipo Hydroxy Acid to remove debris and dirt, and is gentle enough for daily use. The cleanser is designed for sensitive skin, and many users have reported visible improvements in their skin, praising its effectiveness in clearing breakouts without causing excessive dryness; it can also be used as a shaving aid to prevent razor bumps and irritation.
Paula's Choice
Paula's Choice is a well-regarded brand, with their CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser containing 0.5% salicylic acid, known for effectively clearing pores and reducing redness. Meanwhile, their Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, a popular product since at least 2020, is formulated with 2% salicylic acid to treat blackheads and acne. The brand is renowned for its fragrance-free products and gentle formulas that are effective across different skin types. Paula's Choice offers a variety of products with salicylic acid, with the 2% BHA liquid being a customer favorite for its ability to exfoliate, clear pores, and smooth skin texture. They also have a 60-day return policy, which gives customers a sense of confidence when purchasing their products.
Cosrx
COSRX is a well-regarded brand, known for its Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser, a product formulated with 0.5% salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and willow bark water. This cleanser is designed to gently exfoliate, fight blemishes, and hydrate skin, making it suitable for daily use, particularly for oily and acne-prone skin types. Despite being released many years ago, it remains popular among users.
The Ordinary
The Ordinary is a popular skincare brand, renowned for its effective formulations, and its Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is often considered a top choice for a salicylic acid face wash. Offering a potent 2% concentration to exfoliate and clear pores, while it was released as a solution and not a face wash, it is widely used in that manner by consumers. Many users praise its ability to combat blemishes and improve skin texture. This product is a vegan and cruelty-free formula, which is available for purchase on their official website.
Murad
Murad is a well-regarded brand for salicylic acid face wash, offering a clarifying cleanser with 1.5% salicylic acid, which dermatologists often recommend between 0.5% and 2% for effective acne treatment. The product utilizes a time-released formula to continue working even after rinsing, as shown in a 3-day clinical study, where 97% of users noted it dissolved excess oil and 85% felt their pores were free of impurities. This cleanser also contains green tea extract to soothe the skin and help prevent over-drying, making it a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin; however, it may not be suitable for sensitive skin.
Bioré
Bioré is a popular skincare brand offering several salicylic acid face washes, including the Bioré Clear & Breathable Cleanser with 2% salicylic acid, which helps reduce acne breakouts and blackheads, and the Bioré Charcoal Acne Clearing Cleanser containing 1% salicylic acid, known for its ability to absorb excess oil and clear skin; both are designed for daily use and are formulated to deeply cleanse pores and treat blemishes, with some users finding them effective while others may experience dryness or sensitivity; the Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser, while not containing salicylic acid, also aims to purify pores with natural charcoal; Bioré targets the root of skin problems, focusing on unclogging pores for clearer skin, and customer reviews vary widely depending on individual skin types.
Kate Somerville
Kate Somerville, a brand established in 2004, is a leader in skincare, known for its effective formulations and is trusted by many, including celebrities, offering a range of products including cleansers, with the EradiKate line featuring a 2% salicylic acid concentration for combating acne and unclogging pores, while also incorporating niacinamide and a prebiotic complex to balance the skin; these products are available through various retailers and their website, promising visible results. Explore their offerings on the Kate Somerville official website.
Vichy
Vichy's Normaderm line is a top choice for salicylic acid face washes, with their PhytoAction cleanser containing 0.5% salicylic acid, effectively treating acne and preventing new blemishes, while also incorporating zinc and copper to reduce oil and renew skin; this cleanser is suitable for sensitive skin, and clinical studies have shown that after just one wash, excess shine is reduced, and after four weeks, there is a visible reduction in acne blemishes, pores, and blackheads, making it a reliable option for those seeking clearer skin.
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