Best Soaps For Body Acne: Best Products Reviewed
Contents
Many people face a daily battle of trying to control body acne.
There’s nothing worse than having to choose your clothing based on trying to cover up your acne, whatever gender you are.
Whether yours is thanks to sweating after workouts, dead skin cells or even just your genes, there’s hope!
There are plenty of steps you can take to minimize body acne, and the right wash is one of them. Washes with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid have the best track record.
The market is full of products that claim to be helpful.
But how can you really find out what the best soaps for body acne are?
Follow my simple guide below. If your acne is severe, painful or scarring, see a dermatologist.
Dr. Bronner’s Organic Pure Castile Liquid Soap
This castile soap contains tea tree oil. According to NCCIH, a small amount of research suggests tea tree oil may help acne, but more evidence is needed.
Tea tree oil can cause redness or irritation in some people, and it should never be swallowed.
The oils in this particular formula, including the peppermint and eucalyptus, are certified organic to the National Organic Standards Program.
You can use this soap for cleansing and cleaning daily.
It comes packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles.
Dead Sea Mud Soap Bar
This soap bar features Dead Sea mineral mud. The maker says it is organic, preservative-free, cruelty-free and vegan.
The ingredients include unrefined shea butter, extra virgin olive oil, sunflower oil, palm oil and castor bean oil.
You can use this as a face soap, body soap, shaving soap or just as a daily hand soap.
It hasn’t been proven to treat acne, eczema, rosacea or psoriasis, so think of it as a gentle cleanser. It smells wonderful too.
It’s scented with lemongrass, peppermint and eucalyptus oils, which can irritate sensitive skin.
Humane Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Acne Treatment Body & Face Wash
If over-the-counter care is your next step, a benzoyl peroxide wash is one of the most useful body washes for acne.
It contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, the highest strength sold without a prescription. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests starting with a gentler 5.3% wash if your skin is easily irritated.
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria. Leave it on for two to five minutes before rinsing, and note that it can bleach towels, sheets and clothing.
The wash contains no parabens, SLS, fragrance, and does not engage in animal testing.
You can use it on your face, body and back.
For maximum results, you might want to combine it with an oil-free moisturizer after washing.
Peppermint & Tea Tree Soap Bar
This castile soap is made with mostly natural ingredients.
The maker says it contains no sulfates, parabens, alcohol, artificial dyes or synthetic fragrances.
It also uses only vegan ingredients and is made in the USA.
This peppermint soap bar creates a rich lather.
Mixed with tea tree and cajuput essential oils, it’s designed to cleanse and freshen skin, though its acne benefits aren’t proven.
It can be used on all skin types as a daily face soap, body wash, or hand soap.
This peppermint bar is created in small batches using a cold processed soap method.
Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
A list of the best soaps for body acne wouldn’t be complete without a choice from Neutrogena.
This pink grapefruit scented formula is specifically for acne-prone skin.
Its active ingredient is salicylic acid, which helps unclog pores and can help prevent breakouts.
Use it on your back, shoulders and chest, but cut back if your skin gets too dry. It’s formulated to avoid clogging your pores.
Other Ways To Get Clearer Skin
While finding the best soap is important, there are other things you can do in conjunction with treatment to get clear skin faster.
Shower and change clothes as soon as you can after working out or sweating.
Change your sheets twice a week to keep excess oil and dead skin cells away from your body.
Wear loose-fitting workout clothes made of cotton or sweat-wicking fabric, and wash them after each use.
Conclusion
Body acne takes time to clear. Give a medicated wash several weeks of regular use.
If it doesn’t improve, or if you have deep, painful bumps or scarring, see a dermatologist.
Choose the soap that’s right for you and then get out there and wear your favorite clothes with confidence.
Sources
- Back acne: How to see clearer skin, American Academy of Dermatology
- Tea Tree Oil: Usefulness and Safety, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
- Frequently Asked Questions on Soap, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
