The 10 Best Acne Body Washes to Clear Stubborn Breakouts

While just looking at this tube might mentally take you back to your hormonal high school years, Proactiv is a foolproof choice for treating body acne. It contains salicylic acid and glycolic acid to reduce current flare-ups, prevent future acne, and help lingering marks from older breakouts fade. Plus, its formula also nicely features vitamin E and aloe to soothe and hydrate skin.

One satisfied customer writes: "Definitely seen a noticeable difference after using this product. My back acne is clearing up like never before." —Shanika J.

Another beloved cleanser option experts love is PanOxyl's Acne Foaming Wash. Since the wash contains 10 percent benzoyl peroxide, its formula is best for treating stubborn body acne on skin that's not super sensitive. Pro tip from board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian: Benzoyl peroxide can lighten the color of your towels, so make sure to rinse off this cleanser thoroughly.

One satisfied customer writes: "This is the one staple product that's never not in my bathroom. I use [it] to wash my whole body and could never live without it. It leaves no pimples on your back arms, or anywhere else, and removes all smell. It is the perfect body wash." —Jen

Bazaar editors are big fans of Naturium's beauty staples, including this time-released salicylic acid body wash, which is safe for daily use. To fully reap its acne-clearing benefits, let the wash sit on your skin for a few minutes before rinsing it off in the shower.

One satisfied customer writes: "Absolutely loved this body wash! A 10/10 for sure. Had my chest area smooth and great results." —KeyAmirra

If you're looking for a gentle in-shower cleanser that can be used on your face and body, consider this one by Dr. Loretta. It contains the highest concentration of salicylic available in a cleanser without a prescription and is packed with hydrating actives to leave skin soothed and moisturized as it fights acne.

One satisfied customer writes: "I have really sensitive skin, which makes finding a cleanser difficult. This is both gentle and super effective, my skin has cleared up so much!" —Melissa

While some of the best acne body washes can look medicinal in your bathroom, this streamlined option for Nécessaire won't stick out like a sore thumb. Its aluminum packaging is refillable, with a formula that combines salicylic acid with zinc to regulate sebum production, along with niacinamide to fade post-acne hyperpigmentation.

One satisfied customer writes: "I love the packaging and gentleness of the formula. perfect to use post work out!" —Nancy G.

Sometimes, treating body acne with a highly medicated salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide wash can dry out the skin and increase inflammation. This creamy cleanser formula, created by dermatologist Heather Rogers, prioritizes ingredients like antioxidants, emollients, and humectants to cleanse and soothe the skin without leaving it feeling like sandpaper.

One customer writes: "Dr. Rogers body wash has reduced dryness in my skin—my skin has become so much smoother." —Linda H.

Not only is Neutrogena's Body Clear Acne Wash dermatologist recommended thanks to its combination of salicylic acid and hydration-boosting glycerin, but it's also nicely sold in a three-pack on Amazon which makes it easy to stay stocked up for months.

One customer writes: "This is my favorite body wash. It is a good value and has been super effective in clearing up my body acne. The packaging is simple as are the ingredients and scent." —Crystal J.

This budget-friendly wash from Cetaphil combines salicylic acid to treat zits, plus, shea butter and soybean oil to offset dryness post-shower. Its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula is also dermatologist-tested and formulated for sensitive skin.

One customer writes: "Both my boyfriend and I have been using this! It’s a creamy, moisturizing body wash. I typically don’t like using body wash on my back and instead I use face wash however, I feel comfortable enough to use it everywhere: body and face." —Briana V.

Sometimes it's nice to have a body wash containing physical exfoliants to help slough away dead skin (or self-tanner) while fighting acne. This is a great choice, with salicylic acid, green tea, and physical exfoliant in date seed powder, which is much gentler and less abrasive than walnut shells of the past.

One customer writes: "I have been using this product for about a week and my body acne is almost fully cleared up. Would absolutely recommend." —Miley

Differin's Adapalene Gel is one of the best OTC acne medications available, and the brand's clarifying cream-to-lather body wash is just as popular for fighting breakouts. Its two-percent salicylic acid and blue tansy formula is ideal for treating zits on your back, chest, and shoulders.

One customer writes: "This product is great in the shower to help heal my body acne. It is silky and doesn't leave a residue or dry my skin. The scent is a clean fresh smell and doesn't linger for long. You get a big tube of product for a good price." —Em