The 7 Best Acne Body Washes, Tested by PEOPLE

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / David Hattan

People / David Hattan

As far as acne-prone skin is concerned, we’re no strangers to all of thecleansers, masks, and treatmentsavailable for our complexions — but what about breakouts on the body? These pustules can become wildly uncomfortable if they go untreated, but thankfully, one of the first lines of defense against them is acne body wash.“The shower provides an opportunity to really cleanse the skin, which is important for acne-prone skin,” saysDr. Tracy Evans, MD, MPH, Board Certified Dermatologist and Medical Director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology. “A body wash formulated for acne can be very helpful, especially in areas such as the back, shoulders, and chest, which have large surface areas and can be difficult to treat with creams that you have to rub in,” she adds.After testing dozens of formulas with acne-fighting ingredients for consistency, effectiveness, hydration, and cleansing ability, the PEOPLE Tested team found the best body washes for acne that address concerns like pre-existing breakouts, and excess oil, and even help ward off new blemishes, too.Here are our top picks for the best acne body washes PEOPLE Tested.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Kosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body WashJump to ReviewBest for Dry Skin:ZitSticka Silkshake Body Wash at Amazon$17Jump to ReviewBest Budget:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Murad Acne Control Body Wash at Amazon$48Jump to ReviewBest for Back Acne:Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanser at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:Frank Body Clearing Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest Cooling:The Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to Review

As far as acne-prone skin is concerned, we’re no strangers to all of thecleansers, masks, and treatmentsavailable for our complexions — but what about breakouts on the body? These pustules can become wildly uncomfortable if they go untreated, but thankfully, one of the first lines of defense against them is acne body wash.

“The shower provides an opportunity to really cleanse the skin, which is important for acne-prone skin,” saysDr. Tracy Evans, MD, MPH, Board Certified Dermatologist and Medical Director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology. “A body wash formulated for acne can be very helpful, especially in areas such as the back, shoulders, and chest, which have large surface areas and can be difficult to treat with creams that you have to rub in,” she adds.

After testing dozens of formulas with acne-fighting ingredients for consistency, effectiveness, hydration, and cleansing ability, the PEOPLE Tested team found the best body washes for acne that address concerns like pre-existing breakouts, and excess oil, and even help ward off new blemishes, too.

Here are our top picks for the best acne body washes PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Kosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body WashJump to ReviewBest for Dry Skin:ZitSticka Silkshake Body Wash at Amazon$17Jump to ReviewBest Budget:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Murad Acne Control Body Wash at Amazon$48Jump to ReviewBest for Back Acne:Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanser at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:Frank Body Clearing Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest Cooling:The Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Overall:Kosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body WashJump to ReviewBest for Dry Skin:ZitSticka Silkshake Body Wash at Amazon$17Jump to ReviewBest Budget:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Murad Acne Control Body Wash at Amazon$48Jump to ReviewBest for Back Acne:Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanser at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:Frank Body Clearing Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest Cooling:The Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Overall:Kosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body WashJump to Review

Best Overall:Kosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash

Best Overall:

Best for Dry Skin:ZitSticka Silkshake Body Wash at Amazon$17Jump to Review

Best for Dry Skin:ZitSticka Silkshake Body Wash at Amazon$17

Best for Dry Skin:

Best Budget:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10Jump to Review

Best Budget:PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash at Amazon$10

Best Budget:

Best Investment:Murad Acne Control Body Wash at Amazon$48Jump to Review

Best Investment:Murad Acne Control Body Wash at Amazon$48

Best Investment:

Best for Back Acne:Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanser at Amazon$32Jump to Review

Best for Back Acne:Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanser at Amazon$32

Best for Back Acne:

Best Brightening:Frank Body Clearing Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Brightening:Frank Body Clearing Body Wash at Amazon$20

Best Brightening:

Best Cooling:The Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Cooling:The Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash at Amazon$20

Best Cooling:

Best OverallKosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body WashPHOTO: KosasView on Kosas$22 at Amazon$22 at Sephora

Best OverallKosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash

Best Overall

Kosas AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash

PHOTO: Kosas

View on Kosas$22 at Amazon$22 at Sephora

Star QualitiesEasy to applyVisibly diminished acne breakouts on our chests and backsRemoved excess oil without stripping the skinRed FlagsNone that we could find

Star QualitiesEasy to applyVisibly diminished acne breakouts on our chests and backsRemoved excess oil without stripping the skin

Easy to apply

Visibly diminished acne breakouts on our chests and backs

Removed excess oil without stripping the skin

Red FlagsNone that we could find

None that we could find

While this body wash is a bit pricier than your typical drugstore wash, the impressive results justify the price tag. Plus, after the testing period, we still had about 70 percent of the product left, meaning it will last you a long time.

Size:9 ounces |Star Ingredients:AHA, tropical fruit enzymes, allantoin, glycolic acid |Skin Type:All, especially oily skin types

Best for Dry SkinZitSticka Silkshake Body WashPHOTO: Bluemercury$17 at AmazonView on Zitsticka.comStar QualitiesRich in omegas, it provided lightweight yet effective nourishmentVisibly shrunk our pimplesMade pimples less painfulPrevented new breakoutsRed FlagsDoesn’t contain super potent acne-preventing ingredientsDry skin and acne breakouts are individually an annoyance, and it’s not always easy to find products that address both. However, during testing, we found that the ZitSticka Silkshake Body Cleanser is the best acne body wash for dry skin. It includes gentle acne-fighting ingredients like tea tree but also has omegas 3, 6, and 9 to nourish the skin without feeling too heavy. We love that this cleanser also focuses on the skin’s microbiome and includes pre-, post-, and probiotics to strengthen its moisture barrier.While it doesn’t include powerful ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, it did a good job of decreasing pre-existing pimple size and diminishing painful bacne while also preventing the formation of new breakouts (though it didn’t completely clear breakouts during the testing period). Additionally, we thought this acne body wash worked well at reducing redness, which is a major plus. However, if you have cystic or abundant breakouts, you may need to reach for something stronger, like the PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash below.Size:10.14 ounces |Star Ingredients:Tea tree, omega-3, omega-6, omega-9 |Skin Type:Sensitive skin with minimal breakoutsPHOTO: People / Meredith CampbellPHOTO: People / Meredith Campbell

Best for Dry SkinZitSticka Silkshake Body WashPHOTO: Bluemercury$17 at AmazonView on Zitsticka.com

Best for Dry SkinZitSticka Silkshake Body Wash

Best for Dry Skin

ZitSticka Silkshake Body Wash

PHOTO: Bluemercury

$17 at AmazonView on Zitsticka.com

Star QualitiesRich in omegas, it provided lightweight yet effective nourishmentVisibly shrunk our pimplesMade pimples less painfulPrevented new breakoutsRed FlagsDoesn’t contain super potent acne-preventing ingredients

Star QualitiesRich in omegas, it provided lightweight yet effective nourishmentVisibly shrunk our pimplesMade pimples less painfulPrevented new breakouts

Rich in omegas, it provided lightweight yet effective nourishment

Visibly shrunk our pimples

Made pimples less painful

Prevented new breakouts

Red FlagsDoesn’t contain super potent acne-preventing ingredients

Doesn’t contain super potent acne-preventing ingredients

Dry skin and acne breakouts are individually an annoyance, and it’s not always easy to find products that address both. However, during testing, we found that the ZitSticka Silkshake Body Cleanser is the best acne body wash for dry skin. It includes gentle acne-fighting ingredients like tea tree but also has omegas 3, 6, and 9 to nourish the skin without feeling too heavy. We love that this cleanser also focuses on the skin’s microbiome and includes pre-, post-, and probiotics to strengthen its moisture barrier.

While it doesn’t include powerful ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, it did a good job of decreasing pre-existing pimple size and diminishing painful bacne while also preventing the formation of new breakouts (though it didn’t completely clear breakouts during the testing period). Additionally, we thought this acne body wash worked well at reducing redness, which is a major plus. However, if you have cystic or abundant breakouts, you may need to reach for something stronger, like the PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash below.

Size:10.14 ounces |Star Ingredients:Tea tree, omega-3, omega-6, omega-9 |Skin Type:Sensitive skin with minimal breakouts

PHOTO: People / Meredith CampbellPHOTO: People / Meredith Campbell

Best BudgetPanOxyl Acne Foaming WashPHOTO: Amazon$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart

Best BudgetPanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash

Best Budget

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash

PHOTO: Amazon

$10 at Amazon$10 at Target$10 at Walmart

Star QualitiesMild enough to use on sensitive areasHelped reduce our skin’s oiliness in generalWorked wonders on breakouts and ingrown hairsRed FlagsNeed to use a lot to get a good lather

Star QualitiesMild enough to use on sensitive areasHelped reduce our skin’s oiliness in generalWorked wonders on breakouts and ingrown hairs

Mild enough to use on sensitive areas

Helped reduce our skin’s oiliness in general

Worked wonders on breakouts and ingrown hairs

Red FlagsNeed to use a lot to get a good lather

Need to use a lot to get a good lather

After testing this body wash for several weeks, we found that it did a fabulous job of removing excess oil and keeping spot inflammation at bay. And because it’s more of a cream wash than a soap, it left our skin feeling soft after use. The benzoyl peroxide helped to unclog pores and worked wonders on ingrown hairs. Additionally, there was no scent, which is great for sensitive noses and skin types. The price point certainly doesn’t hurt, either!

Size:5.5 ounces |Star Ingredients:Benzoyl peroxide |Skin Type:All, especially dry skin

PHOTO: People / Sara LuckeyPHOTO: People / Sara Luckey

Best InvestmentMurad Acne Control Body WashPHOTO: Ulta$48 at Amazon$48 at Ulta$48 at DermstoreStar QualitiesSmall exfoliating particles didn’t irritate our skinExcellent at combatting excess oil productionAntibacterial propertiesRed FlagsExfoliating particles might not be ideal for sensitive skin typesIf you’re looking to splurge on a luxe acne-fighting formula, the Murad Acne Body Wash is our top pick. This body wash has a gel-like texture with tiny exfoliating particles that gently slough off dry skin to help keep clogged pores at bay. The formula also features salicylic acid, which can exfoliate while also targeting inflammation, excess oils, and blackheads.We loved how gentle the exfoliation felt despite being partially physical (one tester even used it on her face, too, which we wouldn’t necessarily recommend, but she did not experience any adverse reaction in doing so). We also noticed a significant change in our back acne after regular use, as most of our breakouts cleared up, and we only experienced a couple of new pimples during the testing period. It also reduces our overall oiliness, which helps prevent future breakouts.Size:8.5 ounces |Star Ingredients:Salicylic acid, tea tree extract |Skin Type:All, especially oily skin

Best InvestmentMurad Acne Control Body WashPHOTO: Ulta$48 at Amazon$48 at Ulta$48 at Dermstore

Best InvestmentMurad Acne Control Body Wash

Best Investment

Murad Acne Control Body Wash

PHOTO: Ulta

$48 at Amazon$48 at Ulta$48 at Dermstore

Star QualitiesSmall exfoliating particles didn’t irritate our skinExcellent at combatting excess oil productionAntibacterial propertiesRed FlagsExfoliating particles might not be ideal for sensitive skin types

Star QualitiesSmall exfoliating particles didn’t irritate our skinExcellent at combatting excess oil productionAntibacterial properties

Small exfoliating particles didn’t irritate our skin

Excellent at combatting excess oil production

Antibacterial properties

Red FlagsExfoliating particles might not be ideal for sensitive skin types

Exfoliating particles might not be ideal for sensitive skin types

If you’re looking to splurge on a luxe acne-fighting formula, the Murad Acne Body Wash is our top pick. This body wash has a gel-like texture with tiny exfoliating particles that gently slough off dry skin to help keep clogged pores at bay. The formula also features salicylic acid, which can exfoliate while also targeting inflammation, excess oils, and blackheads.

We loved how gentle the exfoliation felt despite being partially physical (one tester even used it on her face, too, which we wouldn’t necessarily recommend, but she did not experience any adverse reaction in doing so). We also noticed a significant change in our back acne after regular use, as most of our breakouts cleared up, and we only experienced a couple of new pimples during the testing period. It also reduces our overall oiliness, which helps prevent future breakouts.

Size:8.5 ounces |Star Ingredients:Salicylic acid, tea tree extract |Skin Type:All, especially oily skin

Best for Back AcneTruly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body CleanserPHOTO: Ulta$32 at Amazon$32 at UltaView on Trulybeauty.comStar QualitiesAfter six weeks of use, most of our back acne was completely goneDid not irritate our sensitive skinNo new pimples appearedRed FlagsWe wish it had more moisturizing ingredientsThose who experience back acne can sigh a breath of relief because we found a formula that can actually get rid of body breakouts. The Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanse is specifically designed to target acne on the back and does a phenomenal job to boot.After testing this body wash for several weeks, we noticed that this cleanser, which transforms from a gel to an easily spreadable creamy formula, made significant changes in our pre-existing back acne, as well as some tricep breakouts. The formula features mandelic acid, which is a powerful ingredient that removes acne-causing bacteria, helping to not only shrink inflamed pimples but also prevent any new pimples from forming. While we wish the formula was a little more nourishing as it made the skin feel a bit dry after use, it works well for those with oily skin types.Size:8 ounces |Star Ingredients:Mandelic acid, niacinamide, allantoin |Skin Type:Balanced, oily

Best for Back AcneTruly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body CleanserPHOTO: Ulta$32 at Amazon$32 at UltaView on Trulybeauty.com

Best for Back AcneTruly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanser

Best for Back Acne

Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanser

$32 at Amazon$32 at UltaView on Trulybeauty.com

Star QualitiesAfter six weeks of use, most of our back acne was completely goneDid not irritate our sensitive skinNo new pimples appearedRed FlagsWe wish it had more moisturizing ingredients

Star QualitiesAfter six weeks of use, most of our back acne was completely goneDid not irritate our sensitive skinNo new pimples appeared

After six weeks of use, most of our back acne was completely gone

Did not irritate our sensitive skin

No new pimples appeared

Red FlagsWe wish it had more moisturizing ingredients

We wish it had more moisturizing ingredients

Those who experience back acne can sigh a breath of relief because we found a formula that can actually get rid of body breakouts. The Truly Cherry Jelly Anti-Bacne Body Cleanse is specifically designed to target acne on the back and does a phenomenal job to boot.

After testing this body wash for several weeks, we noticed that this cleanser, which transforms from a gel to an easily spreadable creamy formula, made significant changes in our pre-existing back acne, as well as some tricep breakouts. The formula features mandelic acid, which is a powerful ingredient that removes acne-causing bacteria, helping to not only shrink inflamed pimples but also prevent any new pimples from forming. While we wish the formula was a little more nourishing as it made the skin feel a bit dry after use, it works well for those with oily skin types.

Size:8 ounces |Star Ingredients:Mandelic acid, niacinamide, allantoin |Skin Type:Balanced, oily

Best BrighteningFrank Body Clearing Body WashPHOTO: Frank Body$20 at Amazon$13$12 at WalmartView on Frankbody.comStar QualitiesNoticeably reduced the new formation of large, cystic acneProvided a nice sensorial experience thanks to its refreshing fruity scentRed FlagsWasn’t a major reduction in the overall number of existing breakoutsFor sensitive skin types, finding an acne body wash that doesn’t feel super harsh on the skin can be a challenge — but the Frank Body Clearing Body Wash has you covered. Formulated with salicylic acid, the acne body wash gently targets inflammation and new acne formation to keep skin clear and unbothered. It also features soothing aloe vera, which feels really nice on sensitive skin, plus vitamin B to protect the skin from free radicals.We really enjoyed using this body wash — it’s very light and comes to a nice, bubbly lather without having to use too much product. Plus, it has a subtle fruity scent that feels especially refreshing. When using this formula, we found that it didn’t do the best job at treating pre-existing breakouts, but it helped put a stop to the formation of new blemishes, especially those deep, painful cystic breakouts. It also did not irritate our skin whatsoever, which is helpful for not exacerbating current pimples.Size:12.17 ounces |Star Ingredients:Salicylic acid, Kakadu plum, aloe vera, vitamin B |Skin Type:All

Best BrighteningFrank Body Clearing Body WashPHOTO: Frank Body$20 at Amazon$13$12 at WalmartView on Frankbody.com

Best BrighteningFrank Body Clearing Body Wash

Best Brightening

Frank Body Clearing Body Wash

PHOTO: Frank Body

$20 at Amazon$13$12 at WalmartView on Frankbody.com

Star QualitiesNoticeably reduced the new formation of large, cystic acneProvided a nice sensorial experience thanks to its refreshing fruity scentRed FlagsWasn’t a major reduction in the overall number of existing breakouts

Star QualitiesNoticeably reduced the new formation of large, cystic acneProvided a nice sensorial experience thanks to its refreshing fruity scent

Noticeably reduced the new formation of large, cystic acne

Provided a nice sensorial experience thanks to its refreshing fruity scent

Red FlagsWasn’t a major reduction in the overall number of existing breakouts

Wasn’t a major reduction in the overall number of existing breakouts

For sensitive skin types, finding an acne body wash that doesn’t feel super harsh on the skin can be a challenge — but the Frank Body Clearing Body Wash has you covered. Formulated with salicylic acid, the acne body wash gently targets inflammation and new acne formation to keep skin clear and unbothered. It also features soothing aloe vera, which feels really nice on sensitive skin, plus vitamin B to protect the skin from free radicals.

We really enjoyed using this body wash — it’s very light and comes to a nice, bubbly lather without having to use too much product. Plus, it has a subtle fruity scent that feels especially refreshing. When using this formula, we found that it didn’t do the best job at treating pre-existing breakouts, but it helped put a stop to the formation of new blemishes, especially those deep, painful cystic breakouts. It also did not irritate our skin whatsoever, which is helpful for not exacerbating current pimples.

Size:12.17 ounces |Star Ingredients:Salicylic acid, Kakadu plum, aloe vera, vitamin B |Skin Type:All

Best CoolingThe Body Shop Tea Tree Body WashPHOTO: Amazon$20$19 at AmazonStar QualitiesProvided cooling sensation to irritated blemishesNourishing formulaLathered really well, even when our skin wasn’t that wetRed FlagsTea tree scent was pretty strongHaving inflamed breakouts on the body can come with a side of heat. For relief, we recommend using a cooling body wash. And, of all the acne body washes we’ve tried, the The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash worked the best. The tea tree oil formula not only cooled on contact but also helped target inflammation and redness on the body, too.And, after regular use over several weeks, we found that it helped clear up some of the breakouts on our skin. Although tea tree might not be for everyone (it can sometimes be irritating for sensitive skin types), it’s a powerful, naturally derived acne-fighting ingredient that is much easier to use when formulated in a body wash than as an oil alone. Additionally, it wasn’t moisturizing, so you’ll want to follow up with a nourishingbody lotionafter showering.Size:8.45 ounces |Star Ingredients:Tea tree oil |Skin Type:Acne-pronePHOTO: People / Loren BrutschPHOTO: People / Loren Brutsch

Best CoolingThe Body Shop Tea Tree Body WashPHOTO: Amazon$20$19 at Amazon

Best CoolingThe Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash

Best Cooling

The Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash

$20$19 at Amazon

Star QualitiesProvided cooling sensation to irritated blemishesNourishing formulaLathered really well, even when our skin wasn’t that wetRed FlagsTea tree scent was pretty strong

Star QualitiesProvided cooling sensation to irritated blemishesNourishing formulaLathered really well, even when our skin wasn’t that wet

Provided cooling sensation to irritated blemishes

Nourishing formula

Lathered really well, even when our skin wasn’t that wet

Red FlagsTea tree scent was pretty strong

Tea tree scent was pretty strong

Having inflamed breakouts on the body can come with a side of heat. For relief, we recommend using a cooling body wash. And, of all the acne body washes we’ve tried, the The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash worked the best. The tea tree oil formula not only cooled on contact but also helped target inflammation and redness on the body, too.

And, after regular use over several weeks, we found that it helped clear up some of the breakouts on our skin. Although tea tree might not be for everyone (it can sometimes be irritating for sensitive skin types), it’s a powerful, naturally derived acne-fighting ingredient that is much easier to use when formulated in a body wash than as an oil alone. Additionally, it wasn’t moisturizing, so you’ll want to follow up with a nourishingbody lotionafter showering.

Size:8.45 ounces |Star Ingredients:Tea tree oil |Skin Type:Acne-prone

PHOTO: People / Loren BrutschPHOTO: People / Loren Brutsch

What to Know About Acne Body Washes

A Balancing Formula

Similar to the face, it’s important not to choose a body wash that is too harsh and, therefore, strips the skin on the body of natural oils, as this can cause the skin’s sebum production to overcompensate and result in excess oil. “One thing to look for in a body wash for acne-prone skin is one that gently foams off the dirt, oil, and sweat, but at the same time does not strip all the natural hydration of the skin,” saysDr. Kseniya Kobets, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore. With this in mind, Dr. Kobets recommends staying away from formulas with heavy ingredients like shea butter or oils (which can clog pores) and instead going for more lightweight hydration, like hyaluronic acid. For dry skin types, you might also consider ingredients like glycerin and dimethicone to restore moisture to the skin and hold it in, respectively, like thePanoxyl Acne Foaming Washwinner on our list.

Ingredients for Acne-Prone Skin

In addition to looking for more balancing formulas, paying close attention to the full ingredient list also makes a difference. “Look for a body wash that has several active ingredients to help fight breakouts, [such as] salicylic acid, azelaic acid, sulfur, green tea extract, and zinc,” saysDr. Jaimie DeRosa, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, and founder and lead facial plastic surgeon of DeRosa Center Plastic Surgery & Med Spa.

Skin Type

According toDr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, it’s also super important to make sure the body wash you use is formulated for your skin type — especially if you have acne-prone skin. Whether you’re looking for a body wash or something like amoisturizer for acne-prone skinor some other product, this means looking not only at the product label but also at beneficial ingredients, as well as important cues like “non-comedogenic” which means it won’t clog pores (though most formulas shouldn’t).

To find the best acne body washes, we researched dozens of formulas, carefully paying attention to acne-fighting ingredients, product reviews, and skin types to curate a list of top products. From there, the PEOPLE Tested team conducted real-world testing over six weeks to find out which body washes work at cleansing blemish-prone skin.

All of these qualities were rated on a scale from one to five, one being the poorest performing and five being the highest. The products that passed the test are the ones you see here.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAfter testing dozens of acne body washes, we found the most success with theKosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash, which features a blend of chemical exfoliants to help clear clogged pores and resurface the skin. For a more budget-friendly option, we also recommendPanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash, which is formulated with benzoyl peroxide and designed to treat and prevent breakouts. If you experience both acne and dry skin on your body — which is a pesky combination — you can find relief in theZitSticka Silkshake Body Cleanser, which is our top pick for the best acne body wash for dry skin since it has omegas 3, 6, and 9 for nourishing the body.Technically speaking, youcanuse acne body wash on your face as facial formulas and body formulas are often quite similar, but our experts warn of using formulas that could be more irritating to the thinner, more delicate facial skin (like physical exfoliants orbody scrubsand those with harsher ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil if you have reactive skin). You should also be careful to avoid your eye area with any acne wash as the active ingredients can greatly irritate them.

Frequently Asked Questions

After testing dozens of acne body washes, we found the most success with theKosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash, which features a blend of chemical exfoliants to help clear clogged pores and resurface the skin. For a more budget-friendly option, we also recommendPanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash, which is formulated with benzoyl peroxide and designed to treat and prevent breakouts. If you experience both acne and dry skin on your body — which is a pesky combination — you can find relief in theZitSticka Silkshake Body Cleanser, which is our top pick for the best acne body wash for dry skin since it has omegas 3, 6, and 9 for nourishing the body.

Technically speaking, youcanuse acne body wash on your face as facial formulas and body formulas are often quite similar, but our experts warn of using formulas that could be more irritating to the thinner, more delicate facial skin (like physical exfoliants orbody scrubsand those with harsher ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or tea tree oil if you have reactive skin). You should also be careful to avoid your eye area with any acne wash as the active ingredients can greatly irritate them.

Jessie Quinnis a contributing writer for PEOPLE.com who writes about beauty, fashion, home, pets, DIY, and more. She has a BA in journalism from Academy of Art University and has written for other publications such as Forbes, InStyle, and Nylon. For this story, Quinn went through extensive testing insights and data, analyzing each tester’s experience with the body washes. She also consulted four medical professionals in the world of dermatology for their insights into which types of acne body washes work best and which ingredients to avoid.

Our Expert PanelDr. Jaimie DeRosais a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon as well as the founder and Lead Facial Plastic Surgeon of DeRosa Center Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in Boston, MA.Dr. Kseniya Kobets, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein, a medical center and university hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, NY.Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and the Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, NY.Dr. Tracy Evans, MPH is a board-certified dermatologist and the Medical Director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology in San Francisco, CA.

Our Expert Panel

Dr. Jaimie DeRosais a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon as well as the founder and Lead Facial Plastic Surgeon of DeRosa Center Plastic Surgery and Med Spa in Boston, MA.Dr. Kseniya Kobets, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein, a medical center and university hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, NY.Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and the Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, NY.Dr. Tracy Evans, MPH is a board-certified dermatologist and the Medical Director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology in San Francisco, CA.

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In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com