15 Best Glycolic Acid Face Washes For Glowing Skin – 2024
Deep cleanse your skin to its natural glow while fighting off pigmentation, dullness, and acne.
Becky Sturm is a multi hyphenate beauty maven who has been in the salon and spa industry for 30+ years as a hairdresser, esthetician, as well as product development and product expert. After graduating in the HORST/Aveda Institute Advanced Training program in 1985, she went on to do an apprenticeship at The Red Carpet Salons for three years in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and then 1 year at Regis Corporation.
Read full bio of Becky Sturm
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.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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Skin problems don’t just affect your looks; it affects your personality and confidence. With every emerging acne and spot, you look for products that can heal and reverse the problem and bring back growing soft skin. The best glycolic cleansers help you fight the issue by deep cleaning your pores and exfoliating the outer layer of your skin. It also keeps your skin free from dullness, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. If you are unsure which ones to invest in, we are here to help. Here is our list of the 15 highest-rated face washes to choose from.
In This Article
Best Glycolic Acid Face Washes And Cleansers
1. Best For All Skin Types:Jack Black Deep Dive Glycolic Facial Cleanser
This glycolic acid cleanser has a clay base that clears oil from your face and washes away dirt and dead skin cells. It makes your skin firm and smooth. This product has a gentle formula that cleans your skin without drying it. It is formulated with PureScience formula and is suitable for all skin types. If you are looking for oily or combination skin cleansers, this product is a must-try skincare essential.
- Contains volcanic ash
- Contains kaolin clay
- Contains natural herbal extracts
- Certified organic
- Can be used as a mask
- No synthetic fragrance
- No artificial colors
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist tested
None
Quick tip2. Best For Minimizing Pores:Insta Natural Glycolic Cleanser
This cleanser works to reduce skin issues like blackheads and irritation. It also helps in clearing clogged pores to prevent skin concerns like acne. It is oil-free and helps in controlling breakouts and keeping your skin hydrated. It is formulated with a blend of key ingredients that also claims to heal chapped and flaky skin.
- Naturally derived extracts
- Contains lactic acid
- No parabens
- No SLS and SLES
- No formaldehyde releasers
- No synthetic dyes
- No petroleum and PEGs
- No mineral oils
- The fragrance might be overpowering for some.
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 965 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
3. Best For Skin Texture:touch Glycolic Acid Face Cleanser
The touch Glycolic Acid Face Cleanser contains 10% glycolic acid to exfoliate, brighten, and rejuvenate your face without leaving it dry. This gentle glycolic acid face wash has a pH of 3.5, making it low on the scale. This allows for more free acids, which help battle the effects of aging, minimize spots, and maintain healthy glowing skin, without any unwanted harm. This cleanser is created with clinically proven ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, and chamomile, which combine to make your cleansing experience as soothing as possible. It is particularly efficient in decreasing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, pores, and blackheads. Regular use of this face wash will help with skin texture improvement and promote even skin tone.
- pH-balanced formula
- Offers anti-aging benefits
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Phthalate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 412 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
Jack Black Deep Dive Glycolic Facial Cleanser Best For All Skin Types | Insta Natural Glycolic Cleanser Best For Minimizing Pores | touch Glycolic Acid Face Cleanser Best For Skin Texture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily | Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal |
| Dimensions | 1.77 x 3.03 x 5.63 inches | 2.1 x 2.1 x 6.8 inches | 2 x 2 x 6 inches |
| Weight | 5 Ounces | 6.72 Ounces | 6 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 300 | 965 | 412 |
| Price | $24 | $24.95 | $19.95 |
4. Best Non-Drying:Anthony Glycolic Facial Cleanser
It contains 4.9% glycolic acid that removes dirt and debris from your skin effectively. It cleanses your skin without stripping it of its natural oils. It is a non-drying formula that does not cause breakouts. Fused with natural ingredients and cutting-edge technology, it is proven to deliver visible results. It is non-foaming, and it gently exfoliates your face, leaving it smooth. No animal testing was done while making this product.
- Contains vitamins A, C, and E
- Hydrating formula
- No parabens
- Gluten-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Packaging is not good.
5. Best For Sensitive Skin:iS Clinical Cleansing Complex
If you are looking for gentle yet effective face washes for your sensitive skin, try the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex. This product contains willow bark and sugar cane extracts. Both are the natural forms of salicylic and glycolic acid. These natural forms are mild and gentle and also help in controlling excess oil production.
- Doubles as a toner
- Can be used as a makeup remover
- No parabens
- Suitable for all skin types
- Reduces blemishes
- Best for sensitive skin
- Cannot remove makeup as effectively as claimed.
"This cleanser is perfect for improving the appearance of rough skin texture. It cleanses and even tones the skin. The formula is gentle and does not dry out my skin or leave it feeling tight."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 426 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
6. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Replenix Acne Solution Gly/Sal 10-2 Cleanser
Replenix Gly/Sly 10-2 cleanser is best for acne-prone skin. It contains clinically proven glycolic (10%) and salicylic (2%) acids that encourage healing. It unclogs the skin pores and eliminates dead skin cells, whiteheads, and blackheads. This mild face wash is scientifically formulated. It helps brighten your skin tone.
- Contains green tea extracts
- Suitable for normal and oily skin types
- Contains witch hazel
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Non-comedogenic
- Contains anti-aging ingredients (peptides, hyaluronic acid, and retinol)
- Not suitable for all skin types
7. Best For Moisturizing:QRx Labs Glycolic Acid Gel Cleanser
This cleanser contains 5% glycolic acid. This advanced formula contains natural extracts and is extremely gentle. It is a suitable option for controlling acne breakouts and diminishing age lines. It claims to fade your blemishes and spots and improve your skin radiance. This product is not tested on animals.
- Contains honey and coconut milk extracts
- Contains vitamin E
- Moisturizing formula
- Improves skin tone
- Contains alcohol
8. Best Cruelty-Free:Claridad Glycolic Face Wash
It is a gentle glycolic acid face wash that claims to even out your skin tone, fade age spots, exfoliate your skin gently, and also improve your acne scars. It promotes healthy skin by stimulating new cell development. It cleanses dirt, impurities, and traces of pollution and keeps your skin feeling refreshed throughout the day.
- Medical grade ingredients
- Developed by dermatologists
- Contains yucca extracts for skin soothing effect
- Natural glycolic acid (extracted from sugar cane)
- No parabens
- 100% cruelty-free
- Might be a bit harsh for sensitive skin
9. Best For Anti-Aging:Toulon Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleansing Gel
This product has a superior AHA exfoliating formula. It controls breakouts effectively. It uses the powerful antioxidant properties of vitamin C to protect your skin from the harmful effects of free radicals. This purifying cleansing gel diminishes the signs of aging. It also comes with a 30-day no-questions-asked return policy.
- Contains AHA (glycolic acid, lavender, and burdock)
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Might irritate sensitive skin
10. Best Organic:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
This is an anti-aging face wash that sloughs away the dead skin cells from your skin and unclogs the pores. It works well on age spots, dark spots, blemishes, discoloration, and signs of aging. Many reviews claim that it is a great buy as it has proven efficacy in improving skin health.
- 100% organic extracts
- Contains seaweed, peppermint extracts
- Contains 10% glycolic acid
- 100% cruelty-free
- No parabens
- May make dry skin drier
- Might irritate the skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 2,626 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
11. Best For Dull Complexion:Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
This formula contains 2.5% glycolic acid and a combination of many ingredients that ensure deep cleansing. It claims to remove dark spots, sun spots, and discoloration. It may help soothe shaving bumps too. It also claims to prevent premature aging and brighten a dull complexion. The product is not tested on animals.
- Contains kojic acid
- Non-drying formula
- Removes makeup
- Does not cause breakouts
- Contains AHA
- Not suitable for all skin types
- Might cause dryness
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 2,241 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
12. Best Non-Drying Formula:Jan Marini Bio Glycolic Face Cleanser
The Jan Marini Bio Glycolic Face Cleanser cleanses and exfoliates the face in a gentle but effective manner. It is created with glycolic acid at the ideal pH to exfoliate the skin in a way that is both gentle and efficient, removing dead skin cells and other debris from the surface as well as the pores, resulting in clean skin that has a silky-smooth finish. There is no need for drying toners or astringents after using this non-foaming moisturizing cleanser since it leaves the skin clean, soft, and well-hydrated. This cleanser does not include any harmful ingredients and can be used on any skin type.
- Low pH-balanced formula
- Silky-smooth finish
- Non-foaming consistency
- Non-irritating formula
None
13. Best Gentle:Serious Skincare Glycolic Cleanser
Its low pH balanced formula gently removes all the dead skin cell build-up from your face. It is completely oil-free and suitable for all skin types. It is extremely gentle and ensures deep-pore cleansing.
- Low pH balanced
- Contains chamomile extracts
- No foaming formula
- Not tested on animals
- Contains parabens
- Contains urea
- Can be drying
14. Best For Skin Discoloration:Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser
This cleanser is suitable for all skin types. It lathers well and gives you a deep cleansing effect. The exfoliating effects of glycolic acid make your skin smooth and glowing. It removes all traces of makeup and dirt and reduces skin discoloration.
- Contains natural herbal extracts, such as marshmallow and sage
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Packaging ensures hygiene
- No breakouts
- Non-drying
- Contains SLS
- Contains parabens
- Contains urea
"I use this cleanser regularly and it gives me clearer skin with each wash. Its gentle formula prevents irritation on my skin and does not pose the need to apply additional moisturizing products. However, I often pair it with a gentle moisturizer for the best results."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 1,033 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
15. Best Skin Brightening:Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser
If you are looking for a dermatologist-recommended face wash for your skincare needs, check out the Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser. This is an extremely mild and lightweight cleanser that exfoliates your skin gently and rejuvenates it. It contains glycolic acid and a hydrating formula that leaves your skin soft and smooth. Brightening face washes like this one are perfect for your AM and PM skincare routines. The serum is proven to deliver visible results according to reviewers.
- Enhances the effects of skin procedures (such as chemical peels)
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Anti-aging effects
- Brightening effect
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
- Contains SLS
- Might not work on all skin types
"This facial gel wash is very mild. It is completely fragrance-free and craetes a satisfying foam that cleans the skin well. It helps improve the skin's texture and clarity. The formula also manage breakouts."
The Bottom Line
Glycolic acid face washes exfoliate the outer layer of your skin while cleaning your pores. These face washes help prevent fine lines, dark spots, and dullness that may have accumulated in your skin over time. Many glycolic acid face washes also tend to help reduce hyperpigmentation in your skin. The Insta Natural Glycolic Cleanser is perfect to smoothen out uneven and rough skin texture, while the Touch Glycolic Acid Face Cleanser is ideal to reduce the appearance of large pores and blackheads. However, if you are looking for intense hydration, try the Anthony Glycolic Facial Cleanser. These face washes are the way to go if you want your skin to be firm and smooth. However, you should avoid products that can cause skin irritation or roughen your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does glycolic acid face wash do?
Glycolic acid is known for its exfoliating properties. In addition, it helps in deep cleaning the skin pores by removing excess sebum and dirt.
Can I use glycolic acid face wash every day?
Yes, you can safely use it daily, but be mindful about the glycolic acid concentrations in your face wash, as higher concentrations can dry and damage the skin.
Is glycolic acid face wash effective?
Yes. Daily use can clear your skin and remove all the dead skin cells effectively. You may notice differences liked brighter skin in just a month.
Which is stronger glycolic or salicylic acid?
Concentrations of any acid can make it stronger, but salicylic acid is more effective as it has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
What should I do after glycolic acid cleanser?
After cleansing your skin, use a toner and moisturizer. If it is during the day, apply SPF30 sunscreen as the final step.
Do dermatologists recommend glycolic acid?
Yes, dermatologists recommend glycolic acid, especially for acne-prone skin, as it’s very effective is reducing acne and breakouts. Some other glycolic acid benefits include allowing better penetration of ingredients and reducing hyperpigmentation.
Read full bio of Becky Sturm
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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