10 Best Face Washes For Hormonal Acne According To An Esthetician – 2025
Invest your bucks in a non-comedogenic face wash to get acne-free, healthy skin.
Akis Ntonos is the co-founder of Aion Aesthetics and a family nurse practitioner (FNP) with five years of experience. He is board-certified by the American Academy of Procedural Medicine to administer injectable treatments.
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Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Experience: 3 yearsEshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.
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Cleansing the face is extremely important in order to remove makeup, excess debris, and impurities. Using the right product can make your skin look healthier and more hydrated. With the best face wash for hormonal acne in place, you can finally say goodbye to that stubborn and super annoying hormonal acne. Regular anti-acne face washes might not do a great job in terms of preventing your skin from the blemishes caused by hormonal acne. It requires special cleansers that can help balance the skin’s pH and destroy harmful bacteria. Don’t worry! Below we have made a list of the 10 most effective options that are worth trying.
In This Article
10 Best Face Washes For Hormonal Acne
1. Best Deep-Cleansing Formula:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
The Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser helps treat cystic acne. It is enriched with 10% glycolic acid that dissolves excess oil and dirt. Organic bamboo, shea butter, and tea tree extract cleanse the pores. These ingredients also reduce acne breakouts, redness, and blemishes. This brightening face wash diminishes dark spots and hyperpigmentation. This advanced, deep-cleansing formula also exfoliates dead skin cells and brightens the skin, smoothening scars caused by hormonal acne. Check out this YouTuber’s detailed review about Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser.
Pros
- 100% organic
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Visible results
Cons
- Not suitable for daily use.
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 2,626 reviews claiming its efficacy.
2. Best Oil-Controlling Formula:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser contains 2% Salicylic acid that prevents breakouts. The gentle, oil-controlling formula is clinically tested to reduce extra surface oil by up to 47%. Salicylic acid fights adult acne and removes blackheads. The exclusive micro-exfoliating Lipo Hydroxy Acid targets the oily areas of your skin and facilitates cell-by-cell removal of debris and dirt. Watch this YouTube video for an unbiased review and to learn more about the usage and practicality of this gentle cleanser.
Pros
- Clinically tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Allergy-tested
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 11,588 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
3. Best Acne-Fighting Ingredients:Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash
The Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash treats hormonal acne and breakouts and helps you get clean skin. It contains a rich blend of lactic acid, green tea, and cucumber extract. This purifying face wash is free of some common acne-fighting ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide that might dry out the skin. Lemon peel oil acts as a natural antibacterial agent that helps brighten the skin. This product checks all boxes to make it to your must-buy list.
Pros
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Obstetritian/Gynecologist-recommended
- Non-drying
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben-free
- Preservative-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
- No artificial dyes
- No synthetic fragrances
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
Did You Know?Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser | La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser | Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive | Oily, Sensitive, acne-prone | Dry |
| Dimensions | - | 2.95 x 1.9 x 7 inches | 3.94 x 3.15 x 4.72 inches |
| Weight | - | 8 Ounces | 6.56 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,626 | 11,588 | 1,687 |
| Price | $24.9 | $15.99 | $19.99 |
4. Best For Pregnant Women:treeactiv Acne Eliminating Face Spray
The treeactiv Acne Eliminating Face Spray removes stubborn acne without irritating the skin. It contains lemongrass water, sandalwood water, witch hazel, jojoba oil, and salicylic acid that purify and brighten your skin, making it healthy. The gentle formula also contains thanaka extract that soothes and moisturizes the skin. Lactic acid exfoliates acne-prone skin without drying it out and encourages skin cell renewal. This face wash is non-greasy and safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding moms.
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Safe and effective
- Absorbed easily
- Non-greasy
- Non-drying
- Non-irritating
- Paraben-free
- Preservative-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
- No artificial dyes
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
5. Best For Sensitive Skin:CLEARstem GENTLECLEAN Skin Cleanser
The CLEARstem GENTLECLEAN Skin Cleanser is the perfect solution for people with sensitive skin type and dry skin condition. The gentle, advanced formula cleanses and nourishes your skin while calming and refreshing it. The unique blend of natural ingredients, including sea buckthorn, chamomile, goldenseal, and vitamin C bioflavonoids, help protect your skin from environmental damage. The nourishing plant extracts and botanical oils in this natural face wash help to reduce redness and inflammation and keep your skin healthy. This hydrating, mild cleanser is free of harsh detergents, soaps, and fragrances and does not leave your skin feeling dry.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Even tones the skin
- Reduces redness.
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Cons
- None
"This has visibly improved my skin's appearance. It effectively removes makeup without harsh ingredients, leaving my skin clear and smooth. It also calms my acne flare-ups and makes my skin tone brighter."
6. Best Tea Tree Oil:Keeva Organics Essential Oil Acne Face Wash
The Keeva Organics Essential Oil Acne Face Wash is non-irritating and removes excess oil, impurities, and makeup from the pores to treat blemishes and breakouts. This face wash contains tea tree oil that disinfects the pores and eliminates blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, acne, and scars. Its gentle formula also keeps your skin clean and healthy while providing a soothing experience for irritated skin.
Pros
- Non-irritating
- GMO-free
- Gentle formula
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This face wash feels more like a lotion and leaves my skin soft and moisturized. It's been effectively keeping my acne at bay without any harsh drying effects. I like its gentle, hydrating touch, especially for the dryness from other acne treatments."
7. Best Ph-Balanced:Farmacy Whipped Greens Face Wash
The Farmacy Whipped Greens Face Wash is pH-balanced and free of oil and soap. It gently cleanses dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils. This gentle face wash is specially formulated with Moringa seed extract, green clay, papaya enzyme, and sodium PCA, leaving your skin refreshed and nourished.
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for combination and oily skin types
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- No synthetic fragrances
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- pH-balanced
Cons
- Overwhelming smell
"This face wash has a light scent and creamy lather that gently cleanses without the post-wash dryness. The texture is slightly thick, but it rinses off easily. The formula gently cleans and leaves my skin supple and soft after each use."
8. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Peach Slices Acne Clarifying Cleanser
Pamper your acne-prone skin with the Peach Slices Acne Clarifying Cleanser. It contains 2% salicylic acid that helps clear and prevent breakouts, exfoliates the skin, and refines pores. The lightweight formula gently smoothens the skin and reduces redness and uneven skin tone. This clarifying product is sulfate-free and cruelty-free, keeping the skin feeling at best. So, start your skin care routine with this acne treatment facial cleanser and enjoy healthy-looking skin. Multiple reviewers’ experiences have indicated that regular use of this cleanser can promote visible results in a few weeks.
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Exfoliates the skin
- Suitable for all skin types
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This cleanser is an important part of my skin care routine. It cleans without dryness and leaves the skin feeling fresh. It also reduces blemishes and has a gentle scent that does not feel too much. It is worth considering for acne-prone skin care."
9. Best Acne-Control Formula:Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser
The Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser is enriched with 10% benzoyl peroxide that fights severe acne and prevents future breakouts. It reduces redness and makes your skin healthy. The gentle, acne-control formula removes surface oil and controls shine without drying out the skin. To understand the functionality better, check out the product review by this YouTuber.
Pros
- Controls oil
- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Might irritate the skin.
10. Best Antibacterial Properties:PCA skin bpo 5% cleanser
The PCA skin bpo5% Cleanser eliminates skin impurities and prevents future breakouts. It is formulated with 5% benzoyl peroxide and gluconolactone that penetrates the pores and moisturizes the skin. The botanical extracts with antibacterial properties help soothe acne-prone and blemish-prone skin. The aloe, cucumber, nettle, and chamomile extracts heal inflamed skin and provide a calming experience. This cleanser exfoliates your skin and keeps it refreshed.
Pros
- Soothes inflammation
- Cruelty-free
- No artificial fragrances
- No synthetic dyes
Cons
- Might dry out the skin.
Now that you are aware of the best face washes for hormonal acne, keep the points listed below in mind before buying one.
How To Choose The Best Face Wash For Hormonal Acne:
Buying Guide
- Determine The Type Of Acne: Acne can be classified into four types: pimples or zits, whiteheads, blackheads, and cystic acne. To pick the right face wash for your skin condition, first, determine your acne type.
- Check The Ingredients: One of the main reasons for acne is the accumulation of dirt and oil in the pores. This leads to pore-clogging and causes acne. Your anti-acne face wash must contain ingredients that help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Look for a pore-clearing product that contains potent ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or aloe vera. These powerful ingredients with antibacterial properties help kill acne-causing bacteria and purify your skin. Make sure to avoid irritating ingredients in the face wash that may aggravate acne and give rise to severe breakout.
- Go For A Gentle Formula: Face washes for acne can be harsh on the skin due to the presence of pore cleansing ingredients. Your skin can become dry, swollen, or irritated during the removal of excess sebum. Hence, pick a foaming face wash that is non-drying and non-irritating to keep your skin barrier intact. Plus, look for dermatologist-recommended cleansers to avoid skin itchiness and irritations.
- Reviews: Check out the reviews of the products on various forums to make an informed decision.
Hormonal acne develops in women due to hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, and menopause. The following factors can trigger hormonal acne breakouts.
Why Does Hormonal Acne Happen?
- Menstruation: Before the onset of the menstrual cycle, your estrogen and progesterone levels drop. This leads to excess oil secretion from the sebaceous glands, resulting in clogged pores and facial and back acne breakouts.
- Menopause: Menopause reduces estrogen levels and increases the levels of testosterone (1). The change in your hormones makes your skin break out, leading to acne.
- Puberty: During puberty, there is an androgen rush in our body, which stimulates sebum production. Overproduction of sebum causes hormonal teen acne.
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is characterized by high androgen levels, menstrual irregularities, and small cysts on ovaries. It occurs when high levels of androgen disrupt estrogen and progesterone production in a woman’s body. This condition can make the skin oily and cause hormonal acne.
Does hormonal acne appear like any other acne? Find it out in the next section.
What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?
Hormonal acne can take different forms on different skin types. It can be painful and occur in the form of pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads. Some people get spots without any heads underneath the skin. These are called cystic acne they are difficult to remove and leave stubborn marks on the skin.
Read on to learn about which age group is most affected by hormonal acne.
Who Does Hormonal Acne Affect?
Hormonal acne can affect adults of any age, but it is prevalent in women. Factors like puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can cause hormonal acne breakouts. Although miscategorized as an adolescent disorder, acne studies reveal that the mean age of presentation for treatment is 24 years. Almost 10% of visits occur when patients are between 35 and 44 years of age. Genetics and gender are essential factors for acne.
In a study conducted on 200 patients with postadolescent acne, 50% of patients reported at least one first-degree family relative with acne. When it comes to gender, acne is significantly higher among women than men across all age groups (2).
Infographic: DOs And DON’Ts Of Using A Face Wash For Hormonal Acne
Using a face wash to remove excess sebum and debris is one of the first steps to reduce and control hormonal acne. This skin issue must be handled carefully to prevent aggravation. Check out the infographic below to learn some of the dos and don’ts of using a face wash on hormonal acne.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Hormonal acne can be in the form of pimples, whiteheads, or blackheads. In general, such acne occurs before menstrual periods, during menopause, in puberty, and if you have PCOS. Such acne needs great care to treat, and face washes can help deal with it. Unfortunately, using generic anti-acne face wash in your skin care routine can not offer the desired results, and your skin needs a specially formulated face wash to deal with hormonal acne. You can opt for the Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser, which works wonders in reducing acne, redness, and blemishes for clear and bright skin, or the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, which reduces excess oil production and clears blackheads, or even the Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash, which is composed of skin-loving ingredients that naturally brighten the skin, reduce texture, and the appearance of pore size. Invest in face washes infused with acne-fighting ingredients, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid. They provide thorough cleansing, remove impurities and dirt, and keep your skin clear and smooth. Stay away from face washes that irritate your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have hormonal acne?
Hormonal acne occurs due to fluctuations in hormones during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause.
How do I balance my hormones?
Hormones can be balanced by exercising, following the right diet, and de-stressing yourself.
How often should I wash my face?
You can wash your face 2-3 times a day. Use an oil-free cleanser that does not clog your pores and prevents further breakouts.
Why am I getting hormonal acne all of a sudden?
A sudden hormonal change in your body can increase the amount of oil production in your skin leading to acne breakouts.
Does face wash help manage hormonal acne?
Yes, face wash can help balance the pH of your skin and destroy harmful bacteria.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author, is a certified skin care coach. She knows what works best for you as per your age and skin type. She has painstakingly done all the research about the ingredients used in various face washes and how they may affect you over time to curate this list of the top 10 face washes for hormonal acne-prone skin. These face washes not only help calm and clear your skin but also help maintain the natural oil and moisture balance of your skin. Select any of the products listed here to see and feel a visible difference for yourself.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Menopausal Acne €“ Challenges And Solutions,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6825478/ - Hormonal Treatment of Acne in Women,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2923944/
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