Acne Guide Book

What acne face washes have the salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide combo?

Is there any acne system or face washes that contain BOTH salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide? I've tried them both together and it's wonderful, but is there any face washes that just have it together and mixed already? Or anything or the like.

Thank you!

Public Comments

1. I don't know of any product that has the both together. That would be too strong to put into one product, it'll completely dry out your face and peel if there's a face wash with the combo.
However, St. Ives exfoliating scrubs have salicylic acd and I think there other face products do as well.

salicylic acid:
- gets right into pores, helps skin turnover so is really good for blackheads and other blocked pore issues
- is better for sensitive skin than bp

Benzoyl peroxide works as a peeling agent, increasing skin turnover and clearing pores, thus reducing the bacterial count there as well as directly as an antibacterial.

Conclusion: products with benzoyl peroxide are A LOT more effective because of so ^

2. I am not aware of any cleansers or leave-on acne product that contain both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. But here is the thing:

1) you wouldn't want to use salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide in a cleanser. Salicylic acid is more effective when it is left on the face and absorbed into the pore so it can work its antibacterial & anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, its oil-solubility gives it the ability to exfoliate within the pore lining. The same thing applies for benzoyl peroxide because you want the chemical to absorb into your skin to kill the bacteria. Cleansers have detergent that you wouldn't want to be leave on your skin for too long as it may trigger irritation and can dry you out. Another thing is that cleansers tend to be slippery, so you the acid or drying benzoyl peroxide may be in contact with your eyes. So.. you are better off with a leave-on benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid product.

2) There are drugstore brands that contain effective concentration of either ingredients. For example, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control 3-in-1 Hydrating Acne Treatment with 2% salicylic acid is a great option for normal to very oily skin type. It does contain fragrance and coloring additives, but they are at the very bottom of the list. Therefore, there is minimal potential for irritation. If you prefer something without fragrance and coloring additives, then try Paula's Choice 2% beta hydroxy acid with 2% salicylic acid. Both product are pH-adjusted to permit effective exfoliation. Paula's Choice also has an acne system that contain benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid with no fragrance and coloring additives and no alcohol or other plant irritants.

3) If you want a benzoyl peroxide product at the drugstore, then either Oxy Clinical Clearing Treatment with 5% benzoyl peroxide OR Clean and Clear Persa-Gel with 10% benzoyl peroxide. The higher the concentration the higher the potential to irritation. If you want a benzoyl peroxide product online that you get more product per dollar, then get the 2.5% Treatment from acne.org

Best wishes

3. Some results of the neutrogena skin id have both salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Take the online guide. It really does work.

https://www.skinid.com/eval