Do you struggle with hormonal acne?
If so, you are not alone; it is a common skin condition that affects many people, particularly women, at various stages of life.
Hormonal acne is caused by fluctuations in hormones that trigger excess oil production, inflammation, and bacteria growth in the skin.
It typically appears as cystic breakouts along the chin, jawline, and cheeks, but can also present as blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
Hormonal acne can be frustrating and hard to treat, but don’t lose hope!
There are many effective skincare products that can help you manage and prevent breakouts, with face wash being one of the most important.
A good face wash can cleanse your skin of oil, dirt, makeup, and sweat that can clog your pores and cause acne.
It can also balance your skin’s pH level, exfoliate dead skin cells, kill acne-causing bacteria, and soothe inflammation.
However, not all face washes are created equal. Some may be too harsh or dry for your skin, while others may not be strong enough to tackle your acne.
Thus, it’s important to select a face wash that is suitable for your skin type and acne type.
To help you find the best face wash for hormonal acne, I’ve compiled a list of 21 of the best options on the market.
These face washes contain ingredients that are proven to fight hormonal acne, such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and sulfur.
These face washes also contain gentle, hydrating ingredients that won’t irritate or strip the skin of moisture.
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Whether you have oily, dry, sensitive, or combination skin, there is a face wash on this list for you.
Read on to discover the best face washes for hormonal acne and how to use them.
What is Hormonal Acne?
Hormonal acne is a type of acne that is influenced by hormones, which are chemical messengers that regulate various body functions, such as growth, metabolism, mood, and reproduction.
Hormones can also affect oil production, inflammation, and bacteria growth on the skin.
When your hormones fluctuate or become imbalanced, they can trigger your sebaceous glands to produce more oil than normal.
This excess oil, mixed with dead skin cells and bacteria, can clog your pores, leading to inflammation and infection and resulting in acne.
Some common factors that can cause hormonal fluctuations or imbalances are:
- Menstruation: Your hormones change throughout your menstrual cycle. Before your period starts, your estrogen levels drop and your progesterone levels rise. This can increase oil production and inflammation in your skin.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, your hormones change dramatically to support the development of your baby. This can affect your skin’s oil production and sensitivity.
- Menopause: As you approach menopause, your estrogen levels decline and your testosterone levels increase. This can cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil and make your skin more prone to breakouts.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a condition that affects women’s ovaries and hormones. Women with PCOS have higher levels of male hormones called androgens, which can stimulate oil production and acne.
- Birth control pills: Birth control pills contain synthetic hormones that can affect your natural hormone balance. Depending on the type and dosage of the pill, it can either improve or worsen your acne.
- Stress: Stress can trigger the release of cortisol, a hormone that regulates your body’s response to stress. Cortisol can also increase oil production and inflammation in your skin.
- Diet: Certain foods can affect your hormone levels and influence your acne. For example, dairy products contain hormones that can stimulate oil production and inflammation in some people. Sugar and refined carbohydrates can also spike your insulin levels, which can increase sebum production and inflammation.
How to Choose a Face Wash for Hormonal Acne
When choosing a face wash for hormonal acne, there are some factors that you need to consider:
- Your skin type: Your skin type determines how much oil your skin produces and how sensitive it is to different ingredients. For example, if you have oily skin, you may want to choose a face wash that is oil-free and contains ingredients that can reduce oil production and unclog pores. If you have dry skin, you may want to choose a face wash that is hydrating and contains ingredients that can moisturize and soothe your skin.
- Your acne type: The type of acne you have determines the severity and persistence of your breakouts, as well as the ingredients that can help treat them. For instance, if you have mild acne, you may want to choose a face wash containing salicylic acid, which can exfoliate and unclog your pores. If you have severe or cystic acne, you may want to choose a face wash that contains benzoyl peroxide, which can kill acne bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Your personal preference: Your personal preference determines the texture, scent, and packaging you like for your face wash. For example, if you prefer a foaming face wash, you may want to choose one with a bubbly or creamy texture. Alternatively, if you prefer a natural face wash, you may want to choose one with organic or plant-based ingredients.
Best Face Washes for Hormonal Acne by Skin Type
Keep in mind that everyone’s skin type is different, so a cleanser that’s great for one person might not be good for you. The underlying causes of acne can differ from person to person and can have a range of contributing factors.
To make it easier for you to find the best face wash for hormonal acne that suits your skin type, we’ve grouped the products by category.
Here are the best face washes for hormonal acne by skin type:
Best Face Washes for Hormonal Acne and Oily Skin
If you have oily skin, you may want to choose a face wash that can remove excess oil from your skin without drying it out.
You may also want to look for ingredients that can regulate oil production, unclog pores, and prevent breakouts.
Here are some of the best face washes for hormonal acne and oily skin:
1. Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser Face Wash
The Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser Face Wash is a powerful cleanser that was created to get rid of acne-causing bacteria.
This product contains 3% sulphur and is perfect for removing oil and unclogging pores.
The cleanser has an exfoliating formula that clears dead skin cells and unclogs pores to support healthier, clearer skin in the long run.
It also contains glycerin which soothes dry and irritated skin while optimizing hydration levels.
Pros:
- Contains 3% sulphur, which is a potent ingredient that can remove oil and unclog pores
- Has an exfoliating formula that clears dead skin cells and prevents new breakouts from forming
- Has glycerin that soothes and hydrates your skin
Cons:
- May have a strong sulphur smell that some people may find unpleasant
- May cause dryness or irritation if used too frequently or in combination with other acne treatments
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
2. Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleansing Gel contains glycolic and lactic acid that works to cleanse and exfoliate the skin.
Lactic and glycolic acids work to gently polish your skin, revealing brighter and smoother skin underneath; while salicylic acid gets to the root of the breakout by unclogging pores, eradicating bacteria, and helping get rid of dead skin cells.
This product works well and even reviewers with sensitive skin stand by the formula. The scrub contains sulfate, so use this two times a week until your flare-up subsides.
Pros:
- Contains glycolic acid and lactic acid that gently polish your skin and reveal a brighter and smoother complexion
- Contains salicylic acid that penetrates deep into your pores and eliminates bacteria and excess oil
- Has a creamy texture that feels luxurious and gentle on your skin
Cons:
- Contains sulfate, which can be irritating or drying for some people
- May cause purging or breakouts initially as it clears out your pores
- May not be suitable for daily use as it can over-exfoliate your skin
3. TULA Keep It Clear Acne Foam Cleanser
If you want to keep your skin clear TULA Keep It Clear Acne Foam Cleanser is a great option.
This foaming cleanser contains probiotic ingredients (healthy bacteria) that help to restore the skin’s microbiome and strengthen the skin’s natural balance.
Both of these are necessary for preventing acne and other problems such as inflammation.
Along with probiotics, this cleanser also has other key ingredients such as 2% salicylic acid, lactic acid, and tea tree oil which work to remove bacteria and unclog pores.
Plus it contains licorice extract and azelaic acid which will help to fade away any breakouts that are still visible.
This gentle cleanser contains non-stripping foaming agents which are suitable for dry, sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Contains probiotic ingredients that help restore your skin’s microbiome and balance its natural defenses against acne-causing bacteria
- Contains 2% salicylic acid, lactic acid, and tea tree oil that help remove bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells from your pores
- Has a foaming texture that is gentle and refreshing on your skin
Cons:
- May have a strong tea tree oil smell that some people may find unpleasant
- May cause dryness or irritation if used too frequently or in combination with other acne treatments
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
Best Face Washes for Hormonal Acne and Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, you may want to choose a face wash that can hydrate and nourish your skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
You may also want to look for ingredients that can soothe and calm your skin and prevent irritation or inflammation.
Here are some of the best face washes for hormonal acne and dry skin:
4. Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
If you have dry skin and are also acne-prone, find a face wash with a gel texture rather than foam.
It’s your personal preference, but gel cleansers often hydrate the skin better than foaming cleansers.
This one from Derma E, for instance, has hydrating and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and chamomile.
Plus, it’s moisturizing and sulfate-free.
Pros:
- Contains hydrating and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and chamomile
- Contains antioxidants like green tea and vitamin C that protect your skin from free radicals and prevent hyperpigmentation
- Has a gentle formula that is vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly
Cons:
- May not remove heavy makeup or sunscreen effectively
- May not be very exfoliating or brightening for your skin
5. Alpyn Beauty PlantGenius Creamy Bubbling Cleanser
Clean-beauty brand Alpyn Beauty’s gentle yet effective cream cleanser is a good alternative to more expensive brands.
It contains AHAs and pomacea and papaya extract, all of which work to remove dull and dead skin cells, refine pores & leaves your skin feeling softer.
Acids and fruit enzymes exfoliate while Vitamin C brightens, which is exactly what you need to deal with post-breakout hyperpigmentation.
Pros:
- Contains AHAs and fruit enzymes that exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, refine pores, and leave your skin feeling softer
- Contains vitamin C that boosts your skin’s radiance and helps fade acne scars
- Has a creamy texture that bubbles up when you massage it on your skin
Cons:
- May cause irritation or sensitivity if you have allergic reactions to some of the plant extracts
- May not be suitable for very oily or acne-prone skin as it can be too moisturizing or clogging
6. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
Some acne sufferers may find that gentler face washes like this CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser works best.
Especially if you’re using a retinoid or other prescription treatment.
This gentle cleanser can help counteract any drying & irritating ingredients found in some topical medications.
Dry, irritated skin can sometimes exacerbate acne issues, which is why it’s important to take care of your skin overall.
Always look for products that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and have some key ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
And be mindful of how your skin feels after using them.
If it’s squeaky clean you’ve over cleansed and can disrupt your skin’s natural protective barrier.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- Contains ceramides that protect your skin’s barrier function and hyaluronic acid that moisturizes your skin
- Gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types but still delivers a thorough cleanse that removes impurities from your pores
Cons:
- May not remove heavy makeup or sunscreen effectively
- May not be very exfoliating or brightening for your skin
- May not be suitable for very oily or acne-prone skin as it can be too hydrating or clogging
Best Face Washes for Hormonal Acne and Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to choose a face wash that can cleanse your skin without irritating it or causing allergic reactions.
Additionally, look for ingredients that can reduce inflammation and redness, as well as heal your skin.
Here are some of the best face washes for hormonal acne and sensitive skin:
7. EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gentle oil, phthalate, and paraben-free pH-balanced cleanser that’s gentle enough for even the most reactive skin.
It’s also very highly rated by fans. It contains bromelain, which reduces inflammation from acne, and apple amino acids to hydrate the skin.
Even though acne sufferers think they want a drying-out effect, overdrying causes the skin to break down even more.
Pros:
- Oil-free, phthalate-free, paraben-free and pH-balanced
- Gentle enough for even the most reactive skin types but still delivers a deep cleanse that removes impurities from your pores
- Has a unique formula that turns from a gel to a foam when you rub it on your skin
Cons:
- May not remove heavy makeup or sunscreen effectively
- May not be very exfoliating or brightening for your skin
8. Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser Face Wash
Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser is specifically formulated for dry and sensitive skin. Although it is gentle, it can still deliver a deep cleanse.
It also helps to reduce acne outbreaks and soothe itchiness and redness. In addition, the product’s pH-balanced formula helps your skin stay calm and healthy all day long.
Pros:
- Specially formulated to calm and soothe irritated skin while cleansing it of dirt and oil
- Helps reduce acne outbreaks and redness
- Has a creamy texture that feels gentle and comforting on your skin
Cons:
- Contains sulphate, which can be irritating or drying for some people
- May not remove heavy makeup or sunscreen effectively
9. Dr. Alkaitis Organic Purifying Facial Cleanser
Based on reviews, most users claim that Dr. Alkaitis Organic Purifying Facial Cleanser is one of the best for clearing up breakouts.
It’s a blend of cold-pressed oils, medicinal herbs, and plant extracts including seaweed, chamomile, and Sambucus nigra flower that are detoxifying but gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Made with cold-pressed oils, medicinal herbs and plant extracts that are detoxifying but gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Can cleanse your skin of impurities without stripping it of its natural oils
- Has a natural and organic formula that is vegan, cruelty-free and eco-friendly
Cons:
- May have a strong herbal smell that some people may find unpleasant
- Doesn’t always remove heavy makeup or sunscreen effectively
Best Face Washes for Hormonal Acne and Combination Skin
If you have hormonal acne and combination skin, you may want to choose a face wash that can balance your skin’s oil production and hydration levels without causing dryness or oiliness.
Additionally, you should look for ingredients that can exfoliate and brighten your skin, as well as prevent breakouts.
Here are some of the best face washes for hormonal acne and combination skin:
10. Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser Face Wash
The Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser Face Wash contains glycolic acid, a superstar ingredient that can exfoliate and clean your skin while reducing oil and increasing cell turnover.
It does all this without causing irritation or dryness in the skin.
Pros:
- Contains glycolic acid, which is a type of AHA that can exfoliate and renew your skin
- Can reduce oil and increase cell turnover, which can improve your skin tone and texture
- Has a gel texture that is easy to apply and rinse off
Cons:
- May cause tingling or stinging sensations on your skin
- May make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so you need to wear sunscreen
- May not be suitable for very dry or sensitive skin
11. Holifrog Superior Omega Nutritive Gel Wash
The Holifrog Omega Nutritive Gel Wash restores balance to your skin while infusing it with good-for-you probiotics, omega fatty acids, and vitamins.
The rice extract, grape seed oil, broccoli seed oil, and seabuckthorn oil are just some of the key ingredients that you’ll find in this product.
This cult-favorite cleanser offers a pH-balanced formula with light foam that helps promote cellular turnover, reduce oil, and restore hydration for healthier skin.
Pros:
- Contains probiotics, omega fatty acids, and vitamins that help strengthen your skin’s natural barrier and support its health
- Contains rice extract, grape seed oil, broccoli seed oil, and seabuckthorn oil that help regulate oil production, reduce inflammation and hydrate your skin
- Has a gel texture that is easy to apply and rinse off
Cons:
- May have a strong herbal smell that some people may find unpleasant
12. Neogen Dermalogy Real Fresh Cleansing Stick Face Wash
This 99% naturally derived cleanser uses real green tea leaves, green tea seed oil, and a blend of several other natural oils.
It will gently purify your skin while also exfoliating and hydrating it without any harmful chemicals.
Reviewers praised the product for its easy application, refreshing scent, and its gentle acne-fighting properties.
However, it’s not formulated to remove makeup.
Pros:
- Contains real green tea leaves, green tea seed oil, and a blend of several other natural oils
- Can gently purify your skin while also exfoliating and hydrating it without any harmful chemicals
- Has a solid stick form that is convenient and travel-friendly
Cons:
- May have a strong green tea smell that some people may find unpleasant
Buy it now on Yesstyle or on Amazon.
Best Hormonal Face Washes For All Skin Types
13. First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser
If you’re using a more intensive acne treatment, such as ointments or external products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, try pairing them with a gentle cleanser.
You might find it irritating to use a treatment cleanser and treatment medication at the same time. Using one instead of the other may be the better option.
This First Aid Beauty cream is fragrance-free, sulfate-free & non-stripping.
It includes aloe, glycerin, and allantoin which can soothe your skin and calm any dryness or irritation it may have.
Pros:
- Contains aloe vera, allantoin, and glycerin that hydrate and soothe your skin
- Contains antioxidants like feverfew and licorice root that protect your skin from free radicals and reduce inflammation
- Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Cons:
- May not be very exfoliating or brightening for your skin
- Doesn’t completely remove makeup or sunscreen
14. MyChelle Fruit Enzyme Cleanser
It is important to include gentle and frequent exfoliation in your skincare routine if you want to purify your skin and prevent acne breakouts.
Switching to a gentle, AHA-rich cleanser like the MyChelle Fruit Enzyme Cleanser can replace harsh, irritating scrubs from your routine.
With its blend of Citrus Fruit and pineapple extracts, the MyChelle Fruit Enzyme Cleanser will help to brighten your complexion and smooth unwanted texture.
All while helping to minimize the effects of stressors and free radicals on your skin.
Pros:
- Contains fruit enzymes that exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, refine pores, and leave your skin feeling softer
- Contains turmeric, which is a powerful antioxidant that can brighten your skin and fade acne scars
- Contains glycolic acid and salicylic acid that can exfoliate and clear your pores
Cons:
- May have a strong herbal smell that some people may find unpleasant
- Doesn’t always remove heavy makeup or sunscreen
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
15. Differin Daily Deep Cleanser with Benzoyl Peroxide
Differin is a prescription acne drug that was the first to be approved by the FDA for over-the-counter use and does a great job keeping acne away.
The Differin Daily Deep Cleanser with Benzoyl Peroxide contains 5% benzoyl peroxide, a gentle and well-tolerated dose that will reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.
Pros:
- Contains 5% benzoyl peroxide, which is a powerful ingredient that can kill acne bacteria and reduce inflammation
- Has a dual-action formula that penetrates deep into your pores and absorbs excess oil
- Has a creamy texture that feels smooth and soft on your skin
Cons:
- May cause dryness, peeling, or irritation if used too frequently or in combination with other acne treatments
- May bleach your clothes, towels, or bedding if you don’t rinse it off well
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
16. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming Cream
This La Roche-Posay cleanser is highly rated for its ability to clear up and prevent breakouts of all kinds, including cystic acne.
This foaming cream contains both salicylic acid and AHAs but is gentle enough for daily use.
This cleanser isn’t only good for acne but it also does a great job removing makeup! Beyond that, it’s just gentle on the skin. I
t does have fragrance, but this formula was specially designed for sensitive skin and will work for all skin types.
Pros:
- Contains both salicylic acid and AHAs that work together to cleanse and exfoliate your skin
- Can clear up and prevent all kinds of hormonal acne, including cystic acne
- Has glycerin that moisturizes your skin and prevents dryness
Cons:
- Contains sulfate, which can be irritating or drying for some people
- May cause purging or breakouts initially as it clears out your pores
- May not be suitable for daily use as it can over-exfoliate your skin
17. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser Face Wash
One of Amazon’s best sellers, COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser Face Wash has BHA, an active ingredient that degrades sebum and helps clean inside the pores while still being gentle on your skin as well as a low pH level that is good for both acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Contains BHA, which is a type of salicylic acid that can exfoliate and clean your pores without irritating your skin
- Has a low pH level that is similar to your skin’s natural pH level, which can help prevent acne and maintain your skin’s health
- Has a gel texture that is easy to apply and rinse off
Cons:
- May have a strong smell that some people may find unpleasant
But it now on Yesstyle or on Amazon.
18. CeraVe Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser
CeraVe’s Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleansing Gel is a gentle cleanser that removes dirt and excess oil from pores.
Formulated with skin-restoring ceramides and calming niacinamide to protect the skin barrier, this fragrance-free option is a great choice for those who want an everyday cleaner that’s non-drying and won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Contains salicylic acid that removes dirt and oil from your pores and exfoliates dead skin cells
- Contains ceramides that restore your skin’s barrier function and niacinamide that reduces inflammation and redness
- Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Cons:
- May cause dryness or irritation if used too frequently or in combination with other acne treatments
19. PanOxyl Acne Foaming Face Wash with 10% Benzoyl peroxide
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash is a great choice because it contains the highest amount of Benzoyl peroxide that you can buy without a doctor’s prescription.
Those with severe or cystic acne can especially benefit from this 10% formula. It treats the most severe types of acne and provides a deep clean, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed.
However despite the positive reviews, use it with caution because it contains sodium lauryl sulfate and potassium lauryl sulfate, which can be irritating if you have sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Contains the highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide that you can get without a prescription
- Can treat the most severe types of acne by killing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and unclogging pores
- Has a foaming texture that is gentle and refreshing on your skin
Cons:
- May cause dryness, peeling, or irritation if used too frequently or in combination with other acne treatments
- May bleach your clothes, towels, or bedding if you don’t rinse it off well
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
20. Cosrx AC Collection Calming Foam Cleanser
The Ac Collection Calming Foam Cleanser is a gentle foam cleanser formulated to remove dirt and impurities from the skin without irritating it.
It not only treats acne but also helps revitalize and recover the skin without any irritation through COSRX Centella AC-Rx Complex.
The calming formula includes three legendary healing ingredients—Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, and Asiatic acid.
Ideal for all skin types, this gentle cleanser removes dirt and excess oil from your skin while fighting acne breakouts.
It leaves your skin looking fresh and soft.
Pros:
- Contains centella asiatica, which is a plant extract that has anti-inflammatory and healing properties
- Can help soothe and repair your skin while preventing acne scars
- Contains salicylic acid that cleanses and exfoliates your pores
Cons:
- May have a strong herbal smell that some people may find unpleasant
Buy it now on Yesstyle or on Amazon.
20. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
If you’re new to benzoyl peroxide and want to ease into it slowly. Or if you’re not sure about using it and want something a bit milder.
Then the CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with only 4% benzoyl peroxide might be the way to go.
The lower percentage of benzoyl peroxide is less drying and irritating and it includes additives that counteract the drying effects benzoyl peroxide may have on the skin.
It also includes niacinamide, ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
The active ingredients all work together and balance each other out.
Benzoyl peroxide clears acne and blackheads while the other ingredients help soothe the skin, retain moisture and protect the skin’s barrier.
Pros:
- Contains 4% benzoyl peroxide, which is a lower concentration that can still kill acne bacteria and reduce inflammation
- Contains hyaluronic acid that hydrates your skin and prevents dryness
- Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Cons:
- May cause dryness or irritation if used too frequently or in combination with other acne treatments
- May bleach your clothes, towels, or bedding if you don’t rinse it off well
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
FAQs
What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?
Hormonal acne can vary depending on your skin type.
Pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and spots without heads are all types of hormonal acne.
Cystic acne is another form of hormonal acne that is difficult to treat and leaves stubborn marks on the skin.
What causes hormonal acne?
Hormonal acne is caused by fluctuations in hormones that affect your skin’s oil production, inflammation, and bacteria growth.
Some common factors that can trigger hormonal acne are:
Menstruation
Pregnancy
Menopause
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Birth control pills
How can I prevent hormonal acne?
There is no sure way to prevent hormonal acne, but you can try some of these tips to reduce your chances of getting breakouts:
Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type and acne type.
Use non-comedogenic products that won’t clog your pores.
Exfoliate regularly but gently with products that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or fruit enzymes.
Moisturize your skin with products that contain hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or niacinamide.
Apply sunscreen every day to protect your skin from UV rays and prevent hyperpigmentation.
Avoid touching or picking at your pimples, as this can cause infection and scarring.
Manage your stress levels with relaxation techniques, exercise, or meditation.
Eat a balanced diet that is low in sugar, dairy, and processed foods.
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins.
Consult your doctor or dermatologist if your hormonal acne is severe or persistent.
How long does it take for a face wash to work on hormonal acne?
There’s no definitive answer to this question, as different face washes may have varying effects on different people.
However, in general, you should expect to see some improvement in your hormonal acne within four to six weeks of using a face wash consistently.
However, don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results or if you experience some initial purging or irritation.
This is normal and may indicate that the face wash is working to clear out your pores and adjust your skin’s pH level.
Be patient and use the face wash for at least two months before deciding if it works for you or not.
If you don’t see any improvement after two months or your condition worsens, you may want to switch to another face wash or consult your doctor or dermatologist for other treatment options.
What kills hormonal acne?
Mild acne is usually treated with over-the-counter topical treatments.
In general, this option is the most popular & effective treatment.
Two ingredients to look out for are salicylic acid, a type of beta-hydroxy acid (or BHA) that gets deep into pores to clear excess oil & dirt, and benzoyl peroxide which guards against inflammation & kills acne-causing bacteria.
Milder ingredients may include tea tree oil or green tea, which also provide soothing benefits for your skin. To find the right acne wash for your skin, look for products with ingredients that are similar to what your skin needs.
Salicylic acid: good for exfoliation. is common in acne treatments. It helps eliminate dead skin cells which can clog pores, and it is excellent for people prone to blackheads and whiteheads.
Benzoyl peroxide: good for exfoliation. has antibacterial properties which means it can kill the acne bacteria that are lurking inside your skin’s pores. It also exfoliates dead skin cells, which can clog your pores and lead to breakouts
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and sulfur: exfoliate, promote collagen, and remove excess oil. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and sulfur are two ingredients that have benefits for the skin.
This includes removing dead skin cells that clog pores, promoting collagen production, and removing excess sebum which can benefit those with aging or oily skin types.
AHAs are primarily used to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells that clog pores.
However, they can also help correct discoloration and promote collagen production.
Similarly, sulfur helps remove excess sebum from the skin and acts as an antibacterial agent for acne-prone skin.
Final thoughts
Hormonal acne can be challenging to deal with, but with the right face wash and skincare routine, you can manage your breakouts and prevent future ones.
When choosing the best face wash for hormonal acne, it is important to consider one’s skin type, acne type, and personal preference.
Here, I’ve listed 21 of the best options on the market that contain ingredients proven to fight hormonal acne, such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, AHAs, sulphur, and more.
They also contain gentle and hydrating ingredients that won’t irritate or dry out your skin.
