Best Face Wash for Acne in India

Salicylic acid is the better starting point — gentler and effective for most. Benzoyl peroxide is stronger but more drying and bleaches towels and clothing. Many dermatologists combine: salicylic acid in the morning, benzoyl peroxide spot treatment at night.

Start once daily (preferably evening) and build up to twice daily if your skin tolerates it. If you experience dryness or peeling, drop back to alternate days and pair with a non-comedogenic moisturiser.

Yes — but only one active treatment wash at a time. If using a salicylic acid wash daily, your second daily cleanse should be a plain gentle cleanser (like Cetaphil) to avoid over-stripping.

Salicylic acid and other actives can cause initial 'purging' — bringing existing micro-comedones to the surface. This usually settles in 4-6 weeks. If it doesn't, or if you're getting new cysts in new areas, that's not purging — that's irritation; stop and reassess.

Adult acne (especially around the jawline and chin in women) responds better to gentle cleansing + targeted prescription treatments (topical retinoid, sometimes spironolactone or hormonal therapy). Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser + a 1% salicylic acid serum is a good supporting routine.

If OTC face washes and serums haven't improved acne in 12 weeks, if you have painful cysts/nodules, if you're getting scarring, or if acne is affecting your mental health. Modern dermatology has very effective options (adapalene, isotretinoin) that work for most people.