13 Best Natural Face Washes For Acne That Work Wonders – 2023

Treat your face with skin-friendly and gentle formulas to improve its texture.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Schwarzburg, MD
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Krati Darak, Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Medha Deb  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

If you have been bothered by pimples, acne, and breakouts for long, try switching to the best natural face wash for acne-prone skin. These face washes are scientifically formulated with powerful acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid. These natural face washes also have the added antiseptic benefits and anti-inflammatory properties of ingredients like neem and tea tree oil!

A natural face wash not only helps cleanse your skin of dirt and excess oil and unclogs pores, but it also helps balance your skin’s pH level. Scroll down to choose one for yourself from the 13 best expert-recommended natural face washes listed below!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Against Dark Spots:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best Cruelty-Free:Pure Biology Facial CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best Anti-Aging:Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser Price on Amazon
Best Detoxifying Formula:Pacifica Beauty Kale Detox Deep Cleansing Face WashPrice on Amazon
Best Against Acne:Chic Republic Detox Face WashPrice on Amazon
Best Sulfate-Free:Tree To Tub Soapberry For FacePrice on Amazon
Best For Damaged Skin:chilogy Charcoal Face WashPrice on Amazon
Best Vegan:no b.s. Foaming CleanserPrice on Amazon
Best Paraben-Free:artnaturals Tea Tree Face WashPrice on Amazon
Best pH-Balanced:Wild Naturals Manuka Honey Facial CleanserPrice on Amazon

1. Best Against Dark Spots:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser

4.6
Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Face Wash Image: Botanic Tree

The Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser helps reduce dark spots, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation. It is scientifically formulated with glycolic acid and botanical ingredients that cast off dead skin cells. This cleanser unclogs pores, removes dirt, and controls skin oils that trigger acne. It revitalizes, softens, and hydrates dull skin. This facial cleanser removes cystic acne scars and restores your skin. It is cruelty-free and does not contain sulfates and parabens. Watch this video for a detailed review of the product.

Key Ingredients: 10% Glycolic acid, Bamboo, Shea butter, Willow bark, Tea tree, Peppermint, Lavender, and Seaweed

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free

Cons

  • May dry out the skin.
Why It’s Worth Buying: A whopping 14,946 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Price at the time of publication: $22.9

2. Best Cruelty-Free:Pure Biology Facial Cleanser

4.4
Pure Biology Facial Cleanser Image: Pure Biology

The Pure Biology Facial Cleanser is scientifically formulated with hyaluronic acid that nourishes and hydrates your skin. It contains proline that increases collagen production and renews skin cells.

This cleanser is enriched with Fision Wrinkle Fix that reduces wrinkles, removes age spots, and firms the skin. The essential oils with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties provide visible results by helping hydrate your skin and reducing acne. This cleanser maintains a healthy balance of good bacteria and moisture in your skin. It is cruelty-free and does not contain GMOs and parabens.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Proline, Lemongrass oil, Rosemary oil, Clary sage oil, and Lemon peel oil

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

Pros

  • Non-GMO
  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Contains sulfates
protip_icon Stylecraze Says
Lemongrass has antifungal and antibacterial properties due to citral, an organic compound found in its leaf. It prevents bacteria and infections, which means that when applied topically, it helps prevent acne, pimples, and rashes.
Why It’s Worth Buying: The product has more than 1,652 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
Price at the time of publication: $24.49

3. Best Anti-Aging:Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser 

4.3
Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser Image: Body Merry

The Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser is fortified with vitamin C that combats blackheads, acne, and dark spots. It contains essential oils that nourish the skin, keeping it healthy and radiant. Jojoba beads cleanse dead skin and grime, unclogging blocked pores. This gentle, professional-grade formula with anti-aging properties helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines. This product is non-comedogenic and cruelty-free.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Jojoba beads, Rosehip, Organic aloe, Olive oil, Clementine essential oil, Tea Tree essential oil, Rosemary extract, and Red clover extract

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 6 x 2 x 2 inches | Weight: 7.83 Ounces

Pros

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Cruelty-free (Leaping bunny certified)
  • Gentle formula
  • Brightens the skin

Cons

  • Might dry out the skin.
Why It’s Worth Buying: More than 907 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
Price at the time of publication: $18.99

4. Best Detoxifying Formula:Pacifica Beauty Kale Detox Deep Cleansing Face Wash

Pacifica Beauty Kale Detox Deep Cleansing Face Wash Image: Pacifica

The Pacifica Beauty Kale Detox Deep Cleansing Face Wash helps your skin stay clear of blemishes and breakouts. It is enriched with kale, clay, and super greens that gently exfoliate the dirt, grime, and pollutants from your pores. The formula’s coconut oil and aloe vera have shown proven efficacy to moisturize your skin and soothe it from within. This gentle formula can be used twice daily. It fights against breakouts and controls excess sebum production. It also tones the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and plump.

Key Ingredients: Kale, Clay, Super greens, Coconut oil, and Aloe vera

Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 1.6 x 2.6 x 7.1 inches | Weight: 5.6 Ounces

Pros

  • Lathers well
  • Gentle
  • Suitable for day and night use
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • SLS-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Petroleum-free
  • Phthalate-free

Cons

  • Unpleasant fragrance

5. Best Against Acne:Chic Republic Detox Face Wash

The Chic Republic Detox Face Wash contains activated charcoal that exfoliates your skin and draws out impurities. It is enriched with three different tea extracts that revitalize and nourish your skin, preventing premature aging. The essential oils form a protective moisturizing barrier from irritants and pollutants.

This gentle face wash with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties helps combat skin irritation and acne. It is rich in antioxidants that restore nutrients of your skin and keep it healthy. This vegan product is cruelty-free and does not contain parabens, gluten, sulfates, and phthalates. This is the perfect charcoal detox for oily skin which leaves your face glowing. Here’s a video to know about the reviewer’s experience with this product.

Key Ingredients: Activated charcoal, Coconut oil, Aloe vera, Olive Oil, Rooibos tea, White tea, Green tea extracts, Orange peel, Vitamin B5, Vitamin C, Sunflower oil, and Tamanu seed oil

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,All Skin Types

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Dye-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Vegan

Cons

  • May cause dryness.
Price at the time of publication: $18.99

6. Best Sulfate-Free:Tree To Tub Soapberry For Face

4.4
Tree To Tub Soapberry For Face Image: Tree To Tub

The Tree To Tub Soapberry For Face contains wild soapberry that cleanses impurities from your skin. It contains aloe vera, shea butter, and acai that moisturize the skin, maintaining its pH balance.

This face wash is infused with chamomile, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It minimizes wrinkles and prevents breakouts. This gentle formula is dermatologist-tested and does not strip your skin’s natural oils. This cruelty-free product does not contain sulfates, parabens, silicones, DEA, MEA, gluten, and artificial fragrances. It is also perfect for makeup removal.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Aloe vera, Açaí, Chamomile, Wild Soapberry, and Coconut extracts

Skin Type: All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.28 x 2.28 x 6.01 inches | Weight: 6.2 Ounces

Pros

  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Silicone-free
  • DEA-free
  • MEA-free
  • Gluten-free
  • No artificial fragrances
  • Cruelty-free
  • Dermatologist recommended

Cons

  • May cause redness and irritation.
protip_icon Stylecraze Says
Wild soapberries have natural cleansing properties for the skin. It aids in the natural restoration of skin tone and complexion without harming the skin. It also removes the skin’s excess oily secretion.
Why It’s Worth Buying: With 549 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
Price at the time of publication: $19.99

7. Best For Damaged Skin:chilogy Charcoal Face Wash

4.3
Chilogy - Charcoal Face Wash 6oz Image: Chilogy

The chilogy Charcoal Face Wash contains activated charcoal that purifies your skin by unclogging the pores and exfoliating dead skin cells. Charcoal controls oil production and helps treat acne, dermatitis, rosacea, and blemishes. This face wash contains antioxidants that hydrate and revitalize the skin. It may help reduce rough skin patches. This cruelty-free cleanser repairs damaged skin and evens out the skin tone. It is free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and gluten.

Key Ingredients: Coconut, Sunflower oil, Olive oils, Aloe vera gel, Orange peel, Rooibos leaf extract, White Tea extracts, and Green tea extracts

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.88 x 1.88 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 6 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Suitable for daily use

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $19.98

8. Best Vegan:no b.s. Foaming Cleanser

4.3

The no b.s. Foaming Cleanser contains aloe vera that rejuvenates your skin and reduces inflammation and scarring caused by acne. The gentle formula contains cucumber and green tea that brighten your skin, reducing puffiness and dark circles. These antioxidants also protect your skin against free radical damage and pollutants. This vegan face wash dissolves makeup and clears clogged pores. This dermatologist-tested aloe vera face wash is cruelty-free and does not contain sulfates, gluten, phthalates, artificial fragrance, and petrochemicals.

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Cucumber, Green tea, and Lavender oil

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • No artificial fragrance
  • Petrochemical-free
  • Dermatologist recommended
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Leaves a residue on the skin.
Price at the time of publication: $18.98

9. Best Paraben-Free:artnaturals Tea Tree Face Wash

4.2
artnaturals Tea Tree Face Wash - (8 Fl Oz / 236ml) - Helps Heal and Prevent Breakouts, Acne and Skin Irritation - Green Tea, 100% Pure Tea Tree Essential Oil, and Aloe Vera Image: Artnaturals

The artnaturals Tea Tree Face Wash has antiseptic properties that combat acne, unclogs pores, and improves the skin tone. It is enriched with plant-derived botanicals –  chrysanthemum and aloe vera – that soothe skin inflammation. Allantoin exfoliates dead skin cells, shrinks the pores, and hydrates the skin. This vegan face wash balances the sebum production of the skin, heals acne, and prevents breakouts. It is cruelty-free and does not contain parabens and sulfates.

Key Ingredients: Green tea extract, Allantoin, Tea Tree oil, Aloe Vera, and Chrysanthemum

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Vegan
  • Sulfate-free

Cons

  • May leave a residue
Price at the time of publication: $7.95

10. Best pH-Balanced:Wild Naturals Manuka Honey Facial Cleanser

4.3
Wild Naturals Manuka Honey Facial Cleanser Image: Wild Naturals

The Wild Naturals Manuka Honey Facial Cleanser heals and moisturizes the skin. It is enriched with aloe vera and cehami flower, which soothe skin irritation and redness. These ingredients support cell renewal and protect your skin from harmful acne-producing bacteria.

Aloe vera enhances the skin tone and keeps your skin pH-balanced. This cruelty-free cleanser reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes. It does not contain sulfates, phthalates, petroleum, parabens, PEG, artificial fragrance, and dye. For sensitive skin, it is better to conduct a patch test to avoid any unwanted side effects.

Key Ingredients: Manuka honey, Aloe vera, Cehami flower extract, Vitamin E, and Coconut oil

Skin Type: All, Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry | Product Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 5.6 inches | Weight: 4.97 Ounces

Pros

  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Petroleum-free
  • PEG-free
  • Paraben-free
  • pH-balanced
  • Cruelty-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Dye-free

Cons

  • Might dry out the skin.
Price at the time of publication: $15.95

11. Best Nourishing:WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash

4.3
WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash Image: Wow Skin Science

The WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash gives you rejuvenated skin. The apple cider vinegar in the formula balances your skin’s pH level and tones your skin. It is also infused with aloe vera that moisturizes your skin and soothes it, while the vitamins B5 & E fill your skin with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and lighten blemishes and dark spots. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid that strengthens the collagen structure of your skin.

The dermatologically tested product is designed with an inbuilt brush that features soft, silicone bristles. The brush helps gently exfoliate the dead skin cells of your skin while stimulating blood circulation. This vegan product is free of sulfates, alcohol, and gluten.

Key Ingredients: Apple Cider Vinegar, Aloe Vera, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamins B5 & E

Skin Type: All, Oily, Sensitive

Pros

  • Dermatologically tested
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Built-in face exfoliating brush
  • Value for money
  • Pleasant fragrance
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan
  • Sulfate-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • The pump may not work properly
Price at the time of publication: $14.49

12. Best Paraben-Free:Zoi Naturals Neroli Face Wash

The Zoi Naturals Neroli Face Wash contains plant-derived ingredients that keep your skin moisturized. It contains soapnut that draws out skin impurities. Aloe vera and shea butter hydrate the skin, while olive and coconut oils control blemishes and reduce wrinkles.

This vegan face wash encourages cell renewal and prevents acne. It protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals, toxins, and UV rays. This cruelty-free product does not contain gluten, toxins, artificial colors, GMOs, fillers, parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Nevertheless, a patch test is recommended for sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Neem extract, Coconut oil, Shea butter, Aloe vera, Soapnut, Olive oil, Brahmi, and Neroli oil

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.57 x 1.57 x 5.12 inches | Weight: 3.38 Ounces.

Pros

  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Gluten-free
  • No artificial colors
  • GMO-free
  • No fillers
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free

Cons

  • Strong fragrance
Price at the time of publication: $12.99

13. Best Non-Drying:Green Leaf Naturals Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser

4
Green Leaf Naturals Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser Image: Green Leaf

The Green Leaf Naturals Amazing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser is enriched with botanical ingredients that help refresh and soothe your skin. It contains aloe vera, white tea, and rooibos tea that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. These ingredients help nourish the skin, clear blocked pores, and remove makeup buildup.

Organic lavender and calendula reduces the appearance of acne and fine lines while healing the skin. This aloe vera and calendula cleanser for breakouts is non-drying and maintains the pH balance of the skin. It is cruelty-free and does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, soy, gluten, or artificial colors.

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Green tea, White tea, Rooibos tea, Sunflower seed oil, Olive oil, Lavender flower extract, and Calendula flower extract

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,All Skin Types | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 7 inches | Weight: 8.16 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Soy-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • No artificial colors

Cons

  • Unpleasant smell
Price at the time of publication: $19.99

If you want to get rid of acne in a gentle, natural way, these products are your best bet. But what makes them the best of the lot? In the section below, we have discussed all the factors that you can consider to judge if a natural face wash for acne is worth committing to. Take a look.

Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Natural Face Washes For Acne

  • Gentleness: Your acne-treating face wash should leave a gentle and soothing feel when cleansing. It must nourish, hydrate, and smoothen the skin to ensure a youthful glow. The face wash must not cause irritation, rashes, and allergies. It must be suitable for multiple uses daily. If you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, always check the ingredient list thoroughly before buying a product.
  • Organic Ingredients: Face washes having a rich blend of organic ingredients are best for skin’s health. They help to get rid of acne, and allergies while improving the skin glow. Potent ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, and lavender have clinically-proven antioxidant properties. They have shown proven efficacy in repairing and renewing your skin while fighting inflammation. The face washes must also contain neem, cucumber, and shea butter to disinfect, soothe, and moisturize the skin.
  • Chemical Content: Artificial chemicals used in skin care products as preservatives damage the skin. Choose those acne-curing face washes that do not contain any traces of silicone, SLS, phthalate, paraben, and sulfate. These products strip off the skin’s natural moisture and cause dryness. The best face washes are also vegan, GMO-free, and not tested on animals
  • Comedogenecity: Comedogenic ingredients block the skin pores. This decreases skin breathability and results in acne, breakouts, and dryness. To treat acne, make sure that your facial cleanser is non-comedogenic. It should contain beneficial acid like lactic, glycolic, etc. to cleanse out the pores from within and give you clear, fresh skin.
  • Other Features: Use acne-treating face washes with a gentle and soothing fragrance that could invigorate your senses. The cleanser must not leave residue after it is washed away. Finally, consider products that are dermatologist- recommended.

Infographic: The Dos And Don’ts Of Washing Your Face If You Have Acne

Acne-prone skin requires a little extra TLC. Following improper practices might irritate your skin and exacerbate acne. Worry not! You can effectively cleanse your skin and avoid breakouts by employing the right strategy. Check out the infographic below to learn more.

The Dos And Don'ts Of Washing Your Face If You Have Acne (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.

Download Infographic in PDF version Download Infographic
Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

“Many skin care products unfortunately contain alcohol and harsh chemicals that may even cause damage to your skin in the long run. Natural products are often more gentle, allowing you to cleanse your skin without future backlash,” says Dr. Schwarzburg, MD, expert in cosmetic dermatology.

If you are tired of trying out various ways to keep acne and breakouts at bay, the best natural face washes for acne will work wonders for your skin. These acne-fighting face cleansers have ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid and have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. They also have plant-based ingredients that will control excess oil, unclog pores, and maintain the pH balance of your skin. The Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser softens dull skin, while the Pure Biology Facial Cleanser contains hyaluronic acid that nourishes and hydrates your skin. The Body Merry Vitamin C Exfoliating Cleanser‘s formulation brightens the skin. These face washes have a gentle and non-comedogenic formula that is safe for everyday use.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She relies on organic face cleansers to solve acne concerns. She browsed various trusted online platforms to read hundreds of reviews and went through user feedback to provide you with the best natural face washes for acne. Apart from cleansing your face, these face cleansers can remove acne scars, minimize dark spots and sunspots, and reduce aging signs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make a homemade face wash for acne?

In a mixing bowl, combine two teaspoons of curd and organic honey. Mix it well and apply it to your face. Then rinse it off with cold water. If you have dry skin, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the mixture.

What is the healthiest way to wash your face?

• Use a non-abrasive, mild cleaner.
• First, remove all of your makeup.
• Apply lukewarm water to your skin.
• With your fingertips, massage the cleanser into your skin.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat your skin dry.
• Moisturize your skin.

What can I use instead of face wash?

Clean your face with a washcloth and warm water instead of a face wash in you don’t have a face wash with you. Simply sprinkle warm water on your face to open your pores, then exfoliate softly with the washcloth. You can wash your skin with raw honey, yogurt, or even olive oil for a more thorough cleanse.

Can I wash my face with just water?

Yes, you can wash your face just with water. However, it will only remove the loose dirt on the surface of your face.

Recommended Articles

Best Organic Face Cleansers To Solve Acne Issues
Best Paraben-Free Face Washes For Every Skin Type
Best Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Cleansers To Reduce Acne
Best Natural Face Washes For Dry Skin


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