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.

Reviewed by Becky Sturm, Esthetician
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Fact-checked by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

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.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best For All Skin Types:Jack Black Deep Dive Glycolic Facial Cleanser
Price on Amazon
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Best For Minimizing Pores:Insta Natural Glycolic Cleanser
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Best For Skin Texture:touch Glycolic Acid Face Cleanser
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Drying:Anthony Glycolic Facial Cleanser
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Best For Sensitive Skin:iS Clinical Cleansing Complex
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Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Replenix Acne Solution Gly/Sal 10-2 Cleanser
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Best For Moisturizing:QRx Labs Glycolic Acid Gel Cleanser
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best Cruelty-Free:Claridad Glycolic Face Wash
Price on Amazon
Best For Anti-Aging:Toulon Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleansing Gel
Price on Amazon
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Best Organic:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating CleanserPrice on Amazon
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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.

Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 1.77 x 3.03 x 5.63 inches | Weight: 5 Ounces

Pros

  • 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

Cons

None

protip_icon Quick tip
Take only a nickel-sized amount on wet hands. Apply it to a slightly damp face in circular motions for best results.

2. Best For Minimizing Pores:Insta Natural Glycolic Cleanser

4.2
InstaNatural Glycolic Cleanser Image: Instanatural

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.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.1 x 2.1 x 6.8 inches | Weight: 6.72 Ounces

Pros

  • 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

Cons

  • The fragrance might be overpowering for some.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Pair this cleanser with Insta Natural’s Glycolic Acid Toner and All-in-One Hydrating Night Serum for a renewing skin care routine.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 965 great reviews on Amazon.

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.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 6 inches | Weight: 6 Ounces

Pros

  • pH-balanced formula
  • Offers anti-aging benefits
  • Paraben-free
  • Dye-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

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
Reviews300965412
Price$24$24.95$19.95

4. Best Non-Drying:Anthony Glycolic Facial Cleanser

4.5
Anthony Glycolic Facial Cleanser Image: Anthony

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.

Skin Type: All, Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal | Product Dimensions: 0.36 x 0.36 x 0.85 inches | Weight: 10.3 Ounces

Pros

  • Contains vitamins A, C, and E
  • Hydrating formula
  • No parabens
  • Gluten-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dermatologist tested

Cons

  • Packaging is not good.

5. Best For Sensitive Skin:iS Clinical Cleansing Complex

4.5

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.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 2.56 x 1.63 x 6.75 inches | Weight: 8.8 Ounces

Pros

  • Doubles as a toner
  • Can be used as a makeup remover
  • No parabens
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Reduces blemishes
  • Best for sensitive skin

Cons

  • Cannot remove makeup as effectively as claimed.

My Personal Experience

"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

The product has more than 426 reviews claiming its efficacy.

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.

Skin Type: Acne-prone | Product Dimensions: 6.75 x 3 x 3 inches | Weight: 6.72 Ounces

Pros

  • 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)

Cons

  • 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.

Skin Type: All

Pros

  •  Contains honey and coconut milk extracts
  •  Contains vitamin E
  •  Moisturizing formula
  •  Improves skin tone

Cons

  •  Contains alcohol

8. Best Cruelty-Free:Claridad Glycolic Face Wash

4.3
Claridad Glycolic Face Wash Image: Claridad

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.

Skin Type: Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily | Package Dimensions: ‎5.83 x 1.73 x 1.65 inches | Weight: 7.05 Ounces

Pros

  • 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

Cons

  • Might be a bit harsh for sensitive skin

9. Best For Anti-Aging:Toulon Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleansing Gel

4.3

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive,All Skin Types

Pros

  • Contains AHA (glycolic acid, lavender, and burdock)
  • Gluten-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Hypoallergenic

Cons

  • Might irritate sensitive skin

10. Best Organic:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser

4.6

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive

Pros

  • 100% organic extracts
  • Contains seaweed, peppermint extracts
  • Contains 10% glycolic acid
  • 100% cruelty-free
  • No parabens

Cons

  • May make dry skin drier
  • Might irritate the skin

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 2,626 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Dry,Sensitive,All Skin Types

Pros

  • Contains kojic acid
  • Non-drying formula
  • Removes makeup
  • Does not cause breakouts
  • Contains AHA

Cons

  • Not suitable for all skin types
  • Might cause dryness

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 2,241 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

12. Best Non-Drying Formula:Jan Marini Bio Glycolic Face Cleanser

4.6
Jan Marini Bio Glycolic Face Cleanser Image: Jan Marini Skin Research

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.

Skin Type: Normal; Dry; Oily; Acne-Prone; Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 1.89 inches | Weight: 7.05 Ounces

Pros

  • Low pH-balanced formula
  • Silky-smooth finish
  • Non-foaming consistency
  • Non-irritating formula

Cons

None

13. Best Gentle:Serious Skincare Glycolic Cleanser

Serious Skincare Glycolic Cleanser Image: Serious Skin

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.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 12 Ounces

Pros

  • Low pH balanced
  • Contains chamomile extracts
  • No foaming formula
  • Not tested on animals

Cons

  • Contains parabens
  • Contains urea
  • Can be drying

14. Best For Skin Discoloration:Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser

4.5

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.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.7 x 1.7 x 6 inches | Weight: 0.21 Ounces

Pros

  • Contains natural herbal extracts, such as marshmallow and sage
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Packaging ensures hygiene
  • No breakouts
  • Non-drying

Cons

  • Contains SLS
  • Contains parabens
  • Contains urea

My Personal Experience

"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 received over 1,033 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

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.

Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 4 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Enhances the effects of skin procedures (such as chemical peels)
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Anti-aging effects
  • Brightening effect
  • Fragrance-free
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Contains SLS
  • Might not work on all skin types
My Personal Experience

"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."

Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, and an New York-based dermatologist says, “This gentle but effective wash is a great option for those with normal to oily skin to help gently exfoliate the skin, helping to brighten the skin and improving the tone and texture. It also contains glycerin to provide moisture leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. It is a lightweight cleanser making it easy to use all year round. ”

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.


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