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Choosing the right cleanser for oily, acne-prone skin can be the difference between consistent breakouts and a calm, balanced complexion. The products below were handpicked based on their ingredient profiles, user feedback, and value — but before diving into the list, it’s important to understand what makes a great cleanser for this skin type.
Not all cleansers are created equal — especially when it comes to oily, acne-prone skin. We selected products based on:
When shopping for a cleanser, here are the most helpful ingredients to seek out:
“Non-comedogenic” means the product is formulated to avoid clogging pores — a must for anyone dealing with acne. Look for products specifically labeled as non-comedogenic or that feature lightweight, breathable ingredients.
Even oily skin needs moisture. Ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier and prevent over-drying, which can lead to rebound oil production.
Cleansers with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) like glycolic or lactic acid, or BHAs (like salicylic acid), help to gently dissolve dead skin cells, keeping pores clear and skin smooth without harsh scrubbing.
Some ingredients, even if they sound appealing, can wreak havoc on oily or acne-prone skin:
Consistency is key — but over-cleansing can backfire. Here's a general guideline:
Here’s a basic AM/PM routine to help calm oil and keep breakouts in check:
This gentle, non-comedogenic face cleanser is a top pick for those with acne. Priced under $10, it’s a total bargain and works well to remove dirt, oil and makeup without drying the skin. It’s formulated for sensitive skin, and is free of dyes, fragrance, parabens, lanolin and formaldehyde releasers. A favorite among many dermatologists, this is well worth a try if you have acne-prone skin.
User reviews say: Users love the efficacy of this cleanser for the price point. Works wonders for acne-, eczema-, dermatitis-prone skin, and leaves skin feeling clean, calm and hydrated.
While on the pricier side for a cleanser, users would argue that it’s worth the $$. This gentle gel cleanser is formulated with white willow bark to exfoliate and break up oil, refining the appearance of pores. Chamomile and centella asiatica help to heal skin damage and prevent free radical damage, making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.
User reviews say: Users remark on how effective this gentle cleanser is at removing makeup, refining pores and leaving skin feeling clean and soft, without stripping or irritating the skin (even among those who are highly sensitive).
This acid-packed cleanser works hard to gently exfoliate away dead skin cells and impurities, thanks to its unique formula that combines both alpha and beta hydroxy acids, and soft jojoba spheres. This cleanser is particularly effective for oily, acne-prone skin, Soothing lavender extract helps to calm inflammation. The result? Thoroughly cleansed skin that appears smoother, refreshed and softer.
Gentle enough to use daily, or can alternate every other day.
This cleanser contains lavender and orange peel oil, so may not be best for those with ultra sensitive skin.
User reviews say: Fine granules provide just the right amount of exfoliation, and are gentle enough for sensitive (even rosacea-prone) skin. Leaves skin smooth, and allows for easier makeup application. Skin appears clearer and more radiant, and doesn’t feel stripped.
This gentle, botanical cleanser designed for oily or problematic skin, works to remove dirt, oil and dead skin from pores while preserving the skin's natural moisture barrier. Menthol and willow bark extract help calm inflamed acne, while EpiK complex balances sebum production.
This cleanser contains natural fragrance (eg. lavender and orange extract) and menthol, so may not be best for those with ultra sensitive skin.
User reviews say: Users love how this cleanser makes the skin feel - soft, refreshed and a little tingly while cleansing. The minty scent is a crowd pleaser! It’s gentle but works to remove makeup and oil, but doesn’t strip the skin.
This cult favorite among Jan Marini loyalists is multi-functioning - it provides gentle cleanse, exfoliates, and eliminates the need for a toner. It’s non-foaming or stripping, and hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling clean, soft and balanced.
The inclusion of glycolic acid makes it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, by providing a deep cleanse that removes dead skin cells and preps the skin for treatment products.
Although priced at $50, this cleanser will last a long time - a little goes a long way, and the bottle contains 8 fl oz (which is on the larger side compared to most other cleansers).
User reviews say: Users love how gentle and hydrating this cleanser is, and how it keeps breakouts at bay. Leaves skin feeling super clean, soft and smooth, and allows products to absorb more easily.
This super fresh foaming gel thoroughly cleanses the skin, while providing light exfoliation from natural AHA/BHA sources. Gentle in nature, it won’t strip your skin of moisture or compromise its pH balance - both of which are critical for oily, acne-prone skin.
User reviews say: Countless users raved about the botanical scent! Leaves skin feeling soft, refreshed and ultra clean, never dry. Some say a bottle will last 6 months.
Twice daily is best — morning and evening. Overwashing can strip the skin and trigger more oil production.
Look for non-comedogenic formulas with gentle exfoliants (like AHAs or BHAs), soothing ingredients (like niacinamide or chamomile), and no irritants like fragrance or sulfates.
Steer clear of sulfates, synthetic fragrances, pore-clogging oils (like coconut oil), and harsh physical exfoliants.
If you notice new or worsened breakouts within 1–2 weeks of using a new cleanser, especially in areas you don’t usually break out, it could be a sign. Switch to a known non-comedogenic product and monitor your skin.
Yes — but there's a catch (or two)! Oil cleansers can gently dissolve excess sebum, sunscreen, and makeup without stripping the skin. The key is choosing a non-comedogenic formula made with lightweight oils like squalane, jojoba, or grapeseed oil. Follow with a water-based cleanser to ensure you're fully rinsing away residue (this is called double cleansing). Avoid oil cleansers with fragrance or heavy oils like coconut oil, which can clog pores and trigger breakouts.
Yes — especially those with chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These help unclog pores and smooth skin texture. However, avoid overuse, and alternate with a gentle cleanser to protect your skin barrier.
Hormonal acne often benefits from BHA-based cleansers (like salicylic acid), which can reach deeper into pores. Ingredients like niacinamide or green tea extract can also help soothe inflammation.
*Ratings as of May, 2025 from Dermstore and Credo Beauty. ^While these products contain mostly non-comedogenic ingredients, they may not be best for those with highly sensitive skin or aggressive acne due to the inclusion of certain ingredients (eg. fragrance from essential oils).
