I Have Oily Skin: What Face Soap Should I Use to Avoid Breakouts?

The right face wash can help control excess oil.
... Comstock Images/Stockbyte/Getty Images

When you have oily skin, regular breakouts can come with the territory; but this doesn’t have to be the case. Finding the right face wash tailored to your skin type can help prevent unwelcome acne attacks. Look beyond regular hand or bar soap to get the best results.

1 Acne-Specific Washes

Acne face washes are designed for eliminating some of the main causes of breakouts: excess oil, bacteria and pollution. Look for products labeled as acne medicated washes or pore cleansers. Many acne washes contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which both have the potential to dry out the skin. Try using the wash in the morning, and another type at night until your skin gets used to the product.

2 Non-Medicated Washes

Oily skin doesn’t necessarily warrant a medicated face wash to prevent acne. In some cases, a cream or gel cleanser followed by a salicylic acid toner or benzoyl peroxide spot treatment will do the trick. This is especially helpful if you have a few dry spots on your face from over-medicating. Look for face soap that is oil-free, and cleanse your face morning and night.

Kristeen Cherney began writing healthy lifestyle and education articles in 2008. Since then, her work has appeared in various online publications, including Healthline.com, Ideallhealth.com and FindCollegeInfo.com. Cherney holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication from Florida Gulf Coast University and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in English.

×