Best Cleansers For Summer Breakouts

What to Look for in Cleansers for Summer Breakouts

Choosing the right cleanser can help keep summer breakouts at bay and leave your skin feeling fresh.

1. Active Ingredients

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Look for cleansers with breakout-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil. These help unclog pores and reduce excess oil that can lead to blemishes.

2. Skin Type Compatibility

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Select a formula designed for your skin type—whether oily, combination, or sensitive. Gel-based or foaming cleansers are great for oily skin, while creamier options may suit sensitive types better.

3. Gentle Formulation

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Summer skin can be more sensitive due to sun exposure and sweat. Choose cleansers that are gentle and non-stripping to avoid irritation or over-drying.

4. Non-Comedogenic Properties

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Ensure your cleanser is labeled non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. This helps prevent new breakouts while treating existing ones.

  1. 1
    All About Clean Rinse-Off Foaming Face Cleanser

    Clinique

    All About Clean Rinse-Off Foaming Face Cleanser

    $28
    1,944 REVIEWS
    Clinique All About Clean Rinse-Off Foaming Cleanser is a cream-mousse cleanser that gently and effectively rinses away makeup.
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  2. 2
    Special Cleansing Gel

    Dermalogica

    Special Cleansing Gel

    $48
    1,852 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Soap-free, foaming gel cleanser. Formulated with lavender and removes impurities and excess oils, leaving the skin feeling smooth and clean.
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  3. 3
    Clarifying Cleanser

    Tata Harper

    Clarifying Cleanser

    $88
    1,455 REVIEWS
    A foaming gel cleanser that targets blemish-causing impurities and balances oil for clear, comfortably matte skin.
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  4. 4
    Acne Solutions Cleansing Foam

    Clinique

    Acne Solutions Cleansing Foam

    $28
    1,264 REVIEWS
    Gentle yet effective cleanser for all types of acne-prone skin
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  5. 5
    Jumbo Clarifying Lotion 3

    Clinique

    Jumbo Clarifying Lotion 3

    $40
    1,162 REVIEWS
    a dermatologist-developed formula that helps reveal fresher skin, sweeping away dulling flakes for skin that accepts moisture better.
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  6. 6
    Acne Solutions Clarifying Lotion

    Clinique

    Acne Solutions Clarifying Lotion

    $22
    911 REVIEWS
    Medicated acne formula solution to unclog skin and rid it of blemishes.
    View full details
  7. 7
    Ultra Facial Cleanser

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    Ultra Facial Cleanser

    $16
    724 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A foaming cleanser formulated to help remove excess oil, dirt and debris.
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  8. 8
    Botanical Brilliance Exfoliating Cleanser

    Ogee

    Botanical Brilliance Exfoliating Cleanser

    $66
    606 REVIEWS
    A triple-action exfoliating cleanser that botanically buffs away impurities for visibly smooth, soft skin.
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  9. 9
    Clearing Skin Wash

    Dermalogica

    Clearing Skin Wash

    $72
    517 REVIEWS
    Salicylic Acid and Tea Tree Oil Cleanser is a naturally-foaming cleanser that is perfect for controlling breakouts and excess surface oils.
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  10. 10
    Ocean Cleansing Mudd

    OSEA

    Ocean Cleansing Mudd

    $48
    486 REVIEWS
    Clarifying seaweed-infused cleanser designed to purify and decongest skin.
    View full details

What to Look for in Cleansers for Summer Breakouts

Choosing the right cleanser can help keep summer breakouts at bay and leave your skin feeling fresh.

1. Active Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for cleansers with breakout-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil. These help unclog pores and reduce excess oil that can lead to blemishes.

2. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Select a formula designed for your skin type—whether oily, combination, or sensitive. Gel-based or foaming cleansers are great for oily skin, while creamier options may suit sensitive types better.

3. Gentle Formulation

Citrus catapult arrow

Summer skin can be more sensitive due to sun exposure and sweat. Choose cleansers that are gentle and non-stripping to avoid irritation or over-drying.

4. Non-Comedogenic Properties

Citrus catapult arrow

Ensure your cleanser is labeled non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. This helps prevent new breakouts while treating existing ones.

Summer breakouts can be frustrating, but with the right cleanser, you can keep your skin looking clear and fresh. We've compiled a list of the best cleansers for tackling summer breakouts, all based on user review ratings. Whether you're dealing with excess oil, sweat-induced blemishes, or increased environmental pollutants, these top-rated cleansers are here to help you achieve a radiant complexion. Say goodbye to summer breakouts and hello to healthy, glowing skin with these highly recommended cleansers.

FAQ

What types of cleansers are best for managing summer breakouts? + -

Gel-based and foaming cleansers are often recommended for summer breakouts, as they help remove excess oil, sweat, and impurities without clogging pores.

How often should I cleanse my skin during the summer to help prevent breakouts? + -

Cleansing your face twice daily—morning and night—can help keep pores clear of sweat, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants that may contribute to breakouts.

Are there specific ingredients to look for in a summer cleanser for breakout-prone skin? + -

Look for ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, or gentle exfoliants that target excess oil and help unclog pores.

Can using a cleanser too frequently worsen summer breakouts? + -

Over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils, potentially leading to increased oil production and more breakouts. Stick to cleansing twice a day unless you've been sweating heavily.

Should I switch my cleanser when the weather gets warmer? + -

Many people benefit from switching to a lighter or more clarifying cleanser in the summer months to address increased oil production and sweat that can lead to seasonal breakouts.