If you’re anything like Brittney Powell, a skincare blogger at The Blushing Bliss, you’ve tried many different face washes for your acne to no avail. You have to wash your face, but how do you find something that doesn’t dry it out, that doesn’t make your acne worse, or cost an arm and a leg?

At the end of the day, there will be some trial and error, but luckily you have some budget-friendly options to consider before heading over to the more expensive side of skincare.

Clean & Clear Acne Wash

Image: Charisse Kenion

“One of my favorites that I use, whenever I’ve lost control of a breakout, is the Clean & Clear acne wash. It has a 2% dose of salicylic acid which after about a week of day and night use keeps the pimples and grease at bay,” says Rhea Henry, a content strategist with Rank-It.ca

“However,” Henry continues, “it is a bit harsh when I’m not having an active breakout so I find I generally don’t use it as often outside of summer when I tend to have most of my breakouts; I just follow it up with the matching oil-control moisturizer if I find that my face feels a little dry.”

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle | $8 | Amazon

Image: Neutrogena

Once she switched to gentler cleaners, her skin cleared up. One of her top two favorites is Neutrogena Ultra Gentle in both the foaming and creamy formulas.

What Does the Dermatologist Recommend?

Image: Cetaphil

Dr. Minars explains that these products are non-drying, and since dryness contributes to skin issues, that’s a big benefit. There are also no dyes or fragrances. “Having your products free from colors and fragrances are particularly important for those patients with sensitive skin types, as those elements can irritate and flare up their issues.”

Here’s What Else You Should Know

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“It’s interesting to mention, as I’ve had patients declare they have sensitive skin, and the reality is that they’re having sensitivity issues because they’re overwhelming their systems with wrong products or too aggressive regiment,” Dr. Minars cautions. “Be mindful of overwashing your face, as it can be irritating and actually create a sort of negative feedback loop that strips your face of natural oils.”

You also do not need to wash your face more any once a day, says Dr. Minars. “I suggest that patients do not need to perform anything special in the mornings outside of their normal routine. If you have very specific issues that require attention in the morning you’re fine to proceed, but by and large, I see more benefits when patients wash upon their return home each day.”

When it comes to products that are designed to offer a “deep clean” like the Luna, “I wouldn’t recommend using it daily, as your face doesn’t need that level of frequency with such a device. I’ve had a patient who irritated their skin far more than they would have without using one at all,” Dr. Minars explains, “Now don’t get me wrong, they can be great for many of us, just be mindful and limit your sessions to two times per week.”