Acne Washes Available Over the Counter

Below is a list of skin washes used to treat acne. These are sold at most drug stores and you are able to buy them without a prescription.

Many people can tolerate the washes containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These washes help reduce oil production. These washes can be used to wash acne on the back and chest in the shower as well.

If your skin is very sensitive, it is reasonable to use one of the mild cleansers first.

Under 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Wash

• University Medical Acne Free Oil-Free Acne Cleanser-2.5% 

• University Medical Acne Free Acne Pore Cleanser Foam-2.5%

• Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask-3.5%

5% Benzoyl Peroxide Wash

• Clean and Clear Advantage 3-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser

10% Benzoyl Peroxide Wash

• Continuous Control Acne Cleanser

• Oxy Maximum Face Wash

• PanOxyl 10% Acne Foaming Wash

• PanOxyl 10% Acne Cleansing Bar

• Store Brand Equivalent

Salicylic Acid Washes

• Clean and Clear Advantage 3-in-1 Foaming Acne Cleanser

• Clearasil Daily Clear Oil-Free Daily Face Wash

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Cream or Foam Cleanser

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleanser

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power Cream or Gel Wash

• Store Brand Equivalent

Mild Soap Free Cleansers

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Wash or Bar

• Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash or Bar

• Neutrogena Transparent Facial Bar

• Store Brand Equivalent