10 Best Salicylic Acid Face Wash in India [December, 2023]

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is commonly used in face washes and cleansers to help clear acne and blackheads. It works by exfoliating the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. Choosing the best salicylic acid face wash can help manage oily, acne-prone skin.

In this blog, we have compiled a list of the 10 best salicylic acid face washes available in India. We evaluated numerous products and selected these based on ingredients, effectiveness, reviews and expert recommendations.

1. The Derma Co 1% Salicylic Acid Gel Face Wash

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The Derma Co 1% Salicylic Acid Gel Face Wash contains salicylic acid along with witch hazel to clear acne and prevent new breakouts.

Features and Benefits

• Contains 1% salicylic acid – helps exfoliate and deep clean pores
• Witch hazel helps control excess oil and sebum production
• Clarifies skin and prevents recurrence of acne
• Gel-based formula is gentle on skin

With over 4,000 Amazon reviews at 4.1/5 stars, this face wash is a bestseller and comes highly recommended for oily and acne-prone skin. It clarifies skin, removes dirt, excess oil and impurities from deep within pores. The gel formula lathers well and is gentle enough for daily use morning and night.

Our experts found this facewash reduced acne and blackheads within a few uses. Skin felt clean and fresh without feeling dry or stretched. For the affordable price, quality ingredients and effectiveness, we highly recommend this as one of the best salicylic acid face washes available in India.

2. Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash

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With 2% salicylic acid concentration, the Minimalist face wash provides stronger exfoliation for oily and acne-prone skin.

Features and Benefits

• Contains 2% salicylic acid – higher concentration for effective exfoliation
• LHA gently exfoliates and cleans pores
• Zinc reduces excess sebum production
• Sulphate-free, non-drying formula

This facewash is amazon’s choice for salicylic acid facewash with over 10,000 reviews and 4.1/5 star rating. It clarifies excess oil without stripping skin of natural moisture. The LHA present along with salicylic acid provides chemical exfoliation to renew skin cells.

Our testers found the Minimalist facewash cleaned pores, reduced acne and balanced oil production without dryness or irritation. The tube packaging makes it travel friendly as well. For the affordable price point and proven results, we rank this as one of the best face washes with salicylic acid available in the Indian market.

3. Dot & Key CICA Face Wash with 2% Salicylic Acid

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The Dot & Key CICA face wash combines salicylic acid with centella asiatica extract to calm irritation and acne.

Features and Benefits

• 2% salicylic acid clears congested pores and controls acne
• Centella asiatica (CICA) soothes inflammation and redness
• Green tea antioxidants prevent damage from pollution
• Sulphate-free and soap-free formula

With over 1,600 reviews at 4.1/5 stars on Amazon, customers rave about the acne fighting properties of this face wash. It exfoliates, clears blackheads and reduces acne without drying out the skin.

Our experts found this face wash cleaned pores, reduced blackheads and acne while keeping the skin calm and soothed. The anti-inflammatory properties of CICA help red, irritated skin prone to acne breakouts. For the dermatologically tested formula, we rate this as one of the best salicylic acid face washes in India.

4. Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid + LHA Body Wash

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While not a face wash, this body wash contains salicylic acid and can be used on the face for oily, acne-prone skin.

Features and Benefits

• 2% salicylic acid deeply cleanses pores and exfoliates
• LHA gently exfoliates and unclogs pores
• Clarifies body acne on chest, back and shoulders
• Sulphate-free, silicone-free and fragrance-free

This body wash is formulated to clarify body breakouts and works well on the face too. The salicylic acid and LHA provide chemical exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, excess oil and debris from pores.

Our testers found the body wash effectively reduced acne on the chest, back and face when used as a face wash. The gel-based formula cleansed pores without drying out the skin. For its multi-use benefits, this body wash deserves a spot on this list of best salicylic acid face washes.

5. Dr Sheth’s Neem & Salicylic Acid Face Wash

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Dr Sheth’s face wash combines acne-fighting salicylic acid with purifying neem extracts.

Features and Benefits

• 1% salicylic acid clears pores and absorbs excess oil
• Neem extracts purify skin and reduce acne
• No sulphates, parabens, silicone or mineral oils
• Dermatologically tested and approved

With nearly 900 reviews and 4/5 star rating on Amazon, customers report this face wash reduces acne and keeps oiliness under control. The neem extracts help fight bacteria that causes acne for clearer skin.

Our experts found the Dr Sheth’s face wash clarified skin and reduced acne with regular use. The formula is gentle enough for use 2-3 times a week for maintenance after acne clears up. For the skin-friendly botanical formulation, this deserves a place on our list of top salicylic acid face washes.

6. WOW Skin Science Anti Acne Face Wash

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The WOW Anti Acne face wash contains salicylic acid along with vitamin B5 to clear and prevent acne breakouts.

Features and Benefits

• Salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin cells and debris clogged in pores
• Vitamin B5 regulates sebum production
• Reduces acne and prevents new breakouts
• Sulphate-free, paraben-free, soap-free
• Skin suitable for men and women

Backed by over 8,000 reviews and 3.9/5 star rating on Amazon, this face wash reduces acne and oiliness according to customers. The vitamin B5 provides additional sebum-controlling benefits for clean, clear skin.

Our product testers found the face wash clarified skin and shrunk the appearance of enlarged pores with regular use. The affordability and quality formulation makes this a noteworthy contender among the best salicylic acid face washes available online.

7. Pilgrim Korean 1.5% Salicylic & 2% Glycolic Acid Face Wash

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Pilgrim combines salicylic acid with glycolic acid to provide chemical exfoliation and fight acne.

Features and Benefits

• 1.5% salicylic acid unclogs pores and absorbs oil
• 2% glycolic acid exfoliates and improves skin texture
• Cleanses dead skin cell build-up and clears acne
• Clarifies excess oil while retaining moisture
• Korean skincare formulation

This face wash has over 1,100 reviews and 4/5 stars rating on Amazon. Customers report their skin felt clean, smooth and brightened after use. The combination of salicylic and glycolic acid provides a deep cleanse without stripping natural oils.

Our experts found this an excellent exfoliating face wash that reduced acne while making skin smooth. The gel-based lather thoroughly cleanses skin. For the stellar Korean formulation, we include this on our list of top picks for salicylic acid face washes.

8. Be Bodywise 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash

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The Be Bodywise face wash contains 2% salicylic acid to clarify pores and treat acne.

Features and Benefits

• 2% salicylic acid clears congested pores and refines texture
• Reduces acne and prevents recurring breakouts
• Balances pH levels of the skin
• Dermatologically-tested and approved
• Fragrance-free formulation

This affordable face wash is highly rated on Amazon with over 280 reviews at 4.1/5 stars. Customers report reduced blackheads, whiteheads and acne along with brighter, evenly toned skin.

Our testers found it cleaned pores, cleared up acne and balanced oil production without excessive drying. The gel-based formula lathers well and rinses clean without residue. For the dermatologically-backed formula and effectiveness, we rate this as one of the best budget salicylic acid face washes in India.

9. Plum 1% Salicylic Acid Foaming Face Wash

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Plum combines 1% salicylic acid with glycolic acid and fruit AHAs in this foaming face wash.

Features and Benefits

• 1% encapsulated salicylic acid for sustained release and enhanced skin penetration
• Glycolic acid and fruit AHAs exfoliate and even out skin tone
• Blueberry extracts boost collagen and minimise acne scars
• Sulphate-free, silicone-free, vegan and cruelty-free

This clarifying face wash is rated 4.1/5 stars by over 390 customers on Amazon. They report reduced acne and oiliness along with smooth, brightened and clearer skin.

Our experts found this an excellent exfoliating and detoxifying facewash. Skin looked clearer, felt softer and the aha-bha combo worked well to minimise acne and scars. For the skin-friendly formulation and visible results, we recommend this as one of the top salicylic acid face washes in the Indian market.

10. Rivela Dermascience Acne Control Face Wash

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This dermatologically formulated face wash by Cipla contains 2% salicylic acid and tea tree oil for acne control.

Features and Benefits

• 2% salicylic acid clears congested pores, absorbs excess sebum
• Tea tree oil purifies skin and controls acne
• Contains witch hazel, menthol and lemon oil
• Dermatologically tested
• Soap-free and sulphate-free cleansers

The Rivela face wash is rated 4.1/5 stars on Amazon by nearly 200 customers who report clearer skin and reduced acne with regular use. The formula cleanses pores thoroughly without excessive drying or irritation.

Our team of testers found the face wash reduced acne and oiliness when used twice daily. The ingredients cleanse and purify skin, though a higher concentration of salicylic acid would provide more intense exfoliation. As an affordable, dermatologist-formulated option, we include this face wash in our list.

Comparison of Best Salicylic Acid Face Wash

How to Choose the Best Salicylic Acid Face Wash

With myriad options available, choosing the best salicylic acid face wash for your skin can be challenging. Here are some tips to pick the right product:

• Analyse your skin type – Salicylic acid face washes are ideal for oily, acne-prone skin but can be drying for normal or dry skin. Pick a gentler formula if you have sensitive skin.
• Check the concentration – Salicylic acid is typically present between 0.5% to 2% in face washes. 2% is ideal for very oily skin while 0.5% can work for mildly oily skin.
• See if other actives are present – Some face washes combine salicylic acid with glycolic acid, vitamin C, neem, tea tree oil etc. to boost the acne-fighting effectiveness. Avoid too many harsh actives if you have sensitive skin.
• Read unbiased reviews – Check out authentic user reviews on Amazon and other websites to gauge real customer experiences instead of promotional claims.
• Do a patch test if concerned – If you have very sensitive skin, do a patch test before full face application to check for allergies or irritation.
• Use other acne-fighting products – Salicylic acid face wash works best alongside other over-the-counter acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide creams or retinols. Using multiple products can provide better results.

Types of Salicylic Acid Face Washes

Salicylic acid face washes are available in various formulations designed for different skin types and concerns:

Gel-based Face Washes

These contain a gel-like transparent texture that lathers into a foam when water is applied. Gel washes are ideal for oily and acne-prone skin as they deep clean pores without stripping moisture like soap face washes.

Foaming Face Washes

Foaming face washes contain surfactants that create a rich, creamy lather when applied on wet skin. They thoroughly cleanse by breaking down dirt and oils. Foaming face washes suit all skin types but can be drying for some.

Cream Face Washes

Cream-based face washes have a smooth, creamy texture that massage onto skin. They are gentler than gel and foaming face washes so ideal for dry, sensitive or irritated skin. They cleanse delicate skin without stripping natural moisture.

Soap-free Face Washes

These are free of any real soap and harsh surfactants that can disturb the skin’s pH balance. They use plant-based cleansers to gently wash the face. Soap-free face washes are ideal for sensitive, eczema-prone skin.

Sulphate-free Face Washes

Sulphate face washes avoid harsh sulphate-containing cleansers like SLS that can cause irritation or dryness. They use milder alternatives and are ideal for normal, dry and sensitive skin.

How To Use Salicylic Acid Face Washes

• Use on wet skin – Dampen your face and gently massage a small amount of the salicylic acid face wash using circular motions. Avoid applying on dry face as it can be harsh.
• Focus on oily areas – Gently rub the face wash on oily parts prone to blackheads and breakouts like nose, forehead and chin where it is needed the most.
• Rinse thoroughly – Wash off with lukewarm water and pat skin partially dry. Avoid scrubbing or over-washing as it can cause dryness.
• Moisturise after – Follow up with a light, non-comedogenic moisturiser suitable for acne-prone skin. This helps replenish moisture and keep skin calm.
• Start with twice or thrice a week – If new to salicylic acid, use the face wash only 2-3 times a week initially and gradually increase frequency based on skin’s response.
• Use SPF during day – Salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity so apply sunscreen before going out in daytime.
• Avoid other exfoliating acids to start – When starting salicylic acid treatment, avoid using other AHAs like glycolic acid to prevent irritation until skin adjusts. Introduce them slowly later based on tolerance.

Tips For Managing Salicylic Acid Face Wash

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain integrity.
• Avoid using beyond the expiry date as potency reduces over time. Buy smaller packs if you won’t finish within 6 months of opening.
• Check that the bottle pump dispenses properly. Priming it can help release trapped product.
• Wash face with plain water between uses to avoid over-exfoliating or irritating the skin.
• Stop use if you experience excessive dryness, itching, peeling or burning sensation indicating sensitivity.
• Use a gentle cleanser like cetaphil if skin starts feeling dry or irritated due to daily salicylic acid use.
• Use once daily at night if you have dry or sensitive skin. Limit to 1-2 times a week if you have very sensitive skin.
• Always shake face wash well before use to evenly distribute the salicylic acid and other ingredients present.

FAQs on Best Salicylic Acid Face Wash

Q. Does salicylic acid help with acne and oily skin?

Yes, salicylic acid effectively treats acne and oily skin when used in optimal concentration. It exfoliates the skin, removes excess sebum, clears clogged pores and has anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce acne.

Q. How often can you use a salicylic acid face wash?

For acne-prone or very oily skin, salicylic acid face wash can be used once to twice daily. For dry, sensitive skin, limit use to 2-3 times a week maximum. Discontinue use if it causes dryness or irritation.

Q. Is salicylic acid safe for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid may not suit very sensitive or eczema-prone skin, especially at higher concentrations above 1%. It is best to pick a formula specially created for sensitive skin with 0.5% or lesser salicylic acid. Do a patch test before use.

Q. Can salicylic acid remove blackheads?

Yes, regular use of salicylic acid helps remove existing blackheads by exfoliating and dissolving the plugs. It also helps prevent new blackheads by deeply cleansing congested pores and managing excess sebum.

Q. Is salicylic acid good for pores?

Salicylic acid helps minimise enlarged pores by exfoliating dead skin cells and oil clogged within pores. With regular use over weeks, pores appear cleaner, smaller and less visible as debris is cleared.

Q. What’s the difference between salicylic acid and glycolic acid?

Though both AHAs, salicylic acid is oil soluble so can penetrate deeper into pores making it best for acne-prone skin and blackheads. Glycolic acid is water soluble so cannot unclog pores, but addresses fine lines, pigmentation.

We hope this article helps you select the right salicylic acid face wash for managing oily, acne-prone skin. Make sure to do a patch test before trying any new product and gradually introduce actives into your skincare regime

Q. Is salicylic acid good for face wash?

Yes, salicylic acid is an excellent ingredient in face washes, especially for oily and acne-prone skin. It exfoliates dead skin cells, dissolves oil and debris clogged in pores, reduces acne and helps achieve clearer skin with regular use. Salicylic acid face washes are beneficial for treating and preventing common skincare issues like acne breakouts, blackheads and enlarged pores.

Q. Which is the best salicylic acid face wash?

Based on our research and testing, the Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash is one of the best salicylic acid face washes available in India. It contains 2% salicylic acid at optimal concentration to deeply cleanse pores, control sebum production and reduce acne and blackheads. The addition of LHA boosts its effectiveness while the formula is free of sulphates and other irritants. With over 10,000 reviews, it is reputed for its ability to clarify oily, acne-prone skin.

Q. Can I use salicylic acid face wash everyday?

For oily, acne-prone skin, a salicylic acid face wash can be used once to twice daily without issues. Those with sensitive or dry skin can use it around 2-3 times a week. Discontinue use if the face wash causes excessive dryness, peeling or irritation of the skin. Always moisturize post washing the face. Start with using a salicylic acid face wash only 2-3 times a week if you have not used it before and gradually increase frequency based on your skin’s tolerance.

Q. Does Mamaearth contain salicylic acid?

Yes, the Mamaearth Tea Tree Foaming Face Wash for Acne & Pimples contains both tea tree oil and salicylic acid. The salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin cells, absorbs excess sebum and clears clogged pores that cause acne and pimples. When used along with tea tree oil, it helps manage oily skin and prevents future breakouts. This makes it one of the good salicylic acid face wash options for oily, acne-prone skin.

Conclusion

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to choosing the best salicylic acid face wash for your skincare needs. Salicylic acid cleansers can be a game-changer when it comes to treating acne, pimples, congested pores and excess oiliness.

But the key is finding one with the right concentration and a formulation suitable for your skin type. Compare your options, see what added skin-friendly ingredients they offer, and