Skin Care

The Best Cleansers For Acne & Fungal Acne – An Updated List

An Updated List Of The Best Fungal Acne Safe Cleansers

 

Please note that this page is now archived and available online only for informational and historical purposes. Refer to our recent post for the latest and best fungal acne face washes.

 

 

 

 

 

Round up of the best fungal acne safe cleansers & face washes

Famously known as the first step in any good skincare routine, cleansing is the foundation of great skin.

Over the course of an entire day, the face gets exposed to many environmental stressors: dirt, dust, smoke, germs, bacteria, etc. These stressors accumulate on the skin, causing it to become dull and congested. The only way to really remove these stressors is to use a facial cleanser.

 

In a hurry? Here are our TOP 10 favorite cleansers for people dealing with both acne and fungal acne.

What is a facial cleanser?

A facial cleanser is simply a skincare product used to remove dirt, sebum, oil, makeup, dead skin cells, and other pollutants from the skin.

Cleansers help keep the skin’s pores clear and prevent skin conditions like congestion and acne.

Most of the environmental pollutants and makeup products that our skin comes in contact with are not water-soluble. This means that washing your face with only water is not enough to remove them. Facial cleansers remove these pollutants without irritating or damaging the skin.

It is important to cleanse your skin twice a day. Cleansing your facial skin at night eliminates the pollutants your skin was exposed to during the day. Cleansing your skin in the morning gets rid of any toxins your skin eliminates during the night.

Beneficial ingredients in face cleansers and face washes

Although all face washes generally do the same primary job of removing makeup, dirt, and oil from the skin, not all cleansers are formulated the same way. Some cleansers contain minimal ingredients. Others have many ingredients. Some cleansers are formulated with certain key ingredients that target specific skin problems.

There are cleansers formulated with unique ingredients that can help reduce acne and fungal acne symptoms. While others help to strengthen and protect the skin.

These ingredients include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide, caprylic/capric triglycerides, vitamin C, glycerin, and ceramides.

Below is a breakdown of the benefits of these ingredients.

Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a keratolytic and desmolytic agent. This means that it does a great job at dissolving and removing the dead skin cells and other follicular contaminants that accumulate inside clogged pores.

Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is an active acne treatment ingredient that is very effective against regular acne (acne vulgaris). It is generally considered the best acne treatment available OTC.

Niacinamide
With a long list of well-documented topical advantages. Niacinamide hydrates the skin, regulates sebum production, treats hyperpigmentation, improves skin elasticity, reduces redness and blotchiness, and fights cell-damaging free radicals.

Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides
An emollient that is non-greasy and acts as a skin conditioner. It’s also antimicrobial and antifungal, so it’s an excellent treatment for fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis).

Vitamin C
This powerful and effective antioxidant (vitamin) is a potent anti-aging ingredient that is available in a number of stable forms. It awakens and stimulates dull skin, giving it a youthful glow and dewy complexion.

Glycerin
The most effective humectant on the planet is glycerin. It’s quite common, appearing in about 7 out of every ten cosmetics and personal care products. It has a very high moisturizing and hydrating effect on the skin. It also protects, soothes, and helps the skin heal itself.
Glycerin also has antimicrobial properties, making it suitable for use as a preservative in some products.

Ceramides
Ceramides are the glue that keeps our skin cells together and our skin barrier healthy. A strong skin barrier keeps moisture in while keeping impurities out.

 

The use of anti-dandruff shampoos as face cleansers (antifungal face wash)

Although not manufactured for facial use, anti-dandruff shampoos are very potent and effective against Malassezia folliculitis, the yeast that causes fungal acne. Since Malassezia is responsible for both fungal acne and dandruff, anti-dandruff shampoos will help when used as a facial wash.

Anti-dandruff shampoos like Nizoral A-D, Selsun Blue, and Dr. Eddies Happy Cappy contain various fungicidal ingredients. These ingredients include zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, and ketoconazole.

They work by destroying the cell membrane of the fungi, which prevents them from growing and multiplying.

Using anti-dandruff shampoos as a facial cleanser can help you clear your skin fast if you’re treating your fungal acne at home.

Things to consider when choosing a fungal acne face wash

Below are a few things to consider when choosing a fungal acne cleanser

1. Minimal ingredients
More often than not, skincare products with too many ingredients can lead to fungal acne breakouts. As a result, we suggest using a cleanser with a small number of ingredients to avoid irritating your skin. This is especially important for cleansing products that tend to leave a film or residue on the skin after use.

2. Fungal acne safe
Even if a cleanser has minimal ingredients, some of the ingredients in the formulation might still trigger fungal acne breakouts.

This is why it is important to be very sure that the product you are using contains no unsafe ingredients for fungal acne. Because many ingredients are written in their scientific names, it might be challenging to identify unsafe ingredients correctly.

This is why you should use our ingredient checker to ensure that your face wash of choice is safe for fungal acne.

3. Price
Let’s face it, a lot of fungal acne skincare products are pretty pricey.
Skincare, even for people with fungal acne, does not have to be very expensive. When choosing an F.A. safe cleanser, try to select an affordable product such as this highly recommended fungal acne safe cleanser a definite must-try!

4. Labels
Usually, skincare products have labels that let you know the benefits of the product immediately. Fungal acne safe products typically carry the ‘Fungal Acne Safe’ label on their bottles.

When choosing a fungal acne cleanser, you should look for the following labels:

  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan
  • Dermatologist-tested or dermatologist-recommended
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Non-drying
  • Lightweight
  • Suitable for sensitive skin or suitable for all skin types
  • pH-balanced
  • Fungal acne safe

 

Things to avoid when choosing the best fungal acne cleanser or the best face wash for fungal acne.

There is quite a long list of ingredients you should avoid in skincare products if you have fungal acne.

These ingredients are usually non-harmful for people who don’t have fungal acne, but they can be quite irritating for people who do.

Here are a few popular skincare irritants you should avoid in a face cleanser.

• Fragrance
• Soap
• Sulfates
• Phthalates
• Oils
• Alcohols
• Parabens
• Formaldehydes
• Abrasives

Above all, the best face cleanser for fungal acne should match your skincare needs and goals. It shouldn’t irritate your skin or make it feel tight. Instead, it should cleanse the skin gently but thoroughly, without stripping it of moisture. It should also fight against and reduce the symptoms of fungal acne.

The 10 Best Facial Cleansers for acne and fungal acne prone skin:

Finding the best cleanser to help you get rid of fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) on your face can be tough because there are so many cleanser options on the market right now.

Because of this, we have decided to share our top recommendations for the best facial cleansers when dealing with acne or fungal acne at home.

Geek & Gorgeous 101 Jelly Joker Cleanser

1. Geek & Gorgeous Jelly Joker Cleanser

This rich, gel-textured, non-foaming cleanser dissolves complexion makeup and cleanses skin without disrupting the skin’s protective barrier. It has a skin-friendly pH range of 5-5.4 which prevents it from disrupting the skin’s natural balance.

It is formulated with skin-loving ingredients like panthenol, allantoin, and xylitol, all of which help soothe the skin, increase the skin’s water-binding ability and strengthen the skin’s barrier.

It also contains caprylic/capric triglycerides, which have potent antifungal properties that help fight Malassezia folliculitis.

This cleanser is cruelty-free and vegan. It is suitable for all skin types and is safe for people who have fungal acne and pregnant people. It is free from essential oils, gluten, and fragrances.

P.S.: If your makeup is water-soluble, Jelly Joker cleanser can be used as a one-step cleanser. This cleanser should be used as the second step in a double cleansing routine if your makeup isn’t water-soluble.

Key Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Panthenol, Allantoin, Xylitol

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Non-Drying
  • pH Balanced
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Gluten-Free
  • Easy On The Eyes (Non-Stinging)
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-Free
  • Pregnancy-Safe
  • Non-Comedogenic
  • Oil-Free
  • Recommended For:
    All Skin Types

Buy Geek & Gorgeous 101 Jelly Joker Cleanser now

Almond Clear Face & Body Wash Mandelic (Almond) Acid - This Product Is Good For- Everyday Ceansing, Acne, Folliculitis, Fungal Acne, Malassezia Folliculitis, Ingrown Hair,

2. Almond Clear Face and Body Wash

Almond Clear Face and Body Wash Almond Clear Face and Body Wash is an excellent choice for individuals with fungal acne concerns on both the face and body.

This specially formulated cleanser is infused with mandelic acid, which not only gently exfoliates the skin but also has antifungal properties that target and eliminate the fungus responsible for acne breakouts.

Unlike other cleansers on the market, Almond Clear is free from harmful additives, making it a safe and effective option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Its gel formula easily lathers, providing a luxurious cleansing experience while effectively combatting and preventing fungal acne.

Key Ingredients: Chlorhexidine Gluconate (Anti-Acne)

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Reduces Acne-Causing Bateria and ingrown hair (folliculitis)
  • Suitable For Shaving
  • Fragrance-Free
  • None Drying
  • Phthalates-Free
  • Sulfate-Free
  • Paraben-free
  • Oil-Free
  • Recommended For:
    All Skin Types, Including Sensitive and Acne-Prone Skin

CONS:

  • Avoid Contact With Eyes

Buy Almond Clear’s Face and Body Wash NOW

 

Etude House Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser

3. Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser

The Etude House Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser is a cream-textured face cleanser that is formulated with naturally derived ingredients. It contains powerful ingredients like madecassoside and panthenol to hydrate the skin deeply and repair the damaged skin barrier.

It also contains glycerin and sorbitol, both of which work to replenish the skin’s moisture content. Glycerin may also have some antifungal properties, which may be beneficial to fungal acne sufferers.

Key Ingredients: Panthenol, Madecassoside

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • pH Balanced
  • Non Drying
  • Soothes & Calms Irritated Skin
  • Easy On The Eyes (none stinging)
  • Synthetic Fragrance-Free
  • Oil-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • Vegan
  • Non-Comedogenic
  • Recommended For:
    Sensitive, Acne-Prone, Irritated & Weak Skin Types

CONS:

  • According to reports, this product is being phased out, so stock up while supplies last.

Buy Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser now at Amazon.com

 

CeraVe Acne Foaming Skin Cleanser

4. CeraVe Acne Foaming Skin Cleanser

This foaming cleanser is designed to remove dirt and excess oils from the skin thoroughly.

It is formulated with 4% benzoyl peroxide, a powerful ingredient that targets the formation of acne breakouts. This ingredient clears acne breakouts and prevents new blemishes from forming.

In addition to benzoyl peroxide, this cleanser contains hyaluronic acid, which helps retain moisture in the skin, and niacinamide, which helps to soothe the skin and fade dark spots.

This cerave face wash also contains three essential ceramides, which maintain the skin’s protective barrier, leaving your skin soft and healthy.

Key Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycolic Acid

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Clears Acne & Backheads
  • Allows Skin To Heal
  • Maintains The Skin Barrier
  • Non-Comedogenic
  • Developed With Dermatologists
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Sulfate-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • Oil-Free
  • Lanolin-Free
  • Phthalate-Free
  • Formaldehyde-Free
  • Recommended For:
    Acne-Prone, Combination & Oily Skin Types

Currently, our TOP benzoyl peroxide face wash.

Buy CeraVe Acne Foaming Skin Cleanser now at Amazon.com

NB: Because cholesterol and ceramides can be problematic for some people, it’s best to do a patch test first.

Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelee 3% - Fungal Acne Safe Gel Cleanser

5. Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelee 3%

This gel cleanser gently removes makeup, impurities, and oil from the skin without leaving it dry.

It is formulated with 3% niacinamide, which fades the appearance of dark spots and smooths the skin’s texture.

It also contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which are both extremely hydrating. This helps to balance the skin and make it more supple and healthy.

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Dissolves Impurities
  • Paraben-Free
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-Free
  • Gluten-Free
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Dermatologist Tested
  • pH Balanced
  • Non-Comedogenic
  • Recommended For:
    Sensitive, Dry, Combination, Acne-Prone & Aging Skin Types:

NB: Although niacinamide is generally a well-tolerated skincare ingredient, not all skin types can tolerate it. As a result, if you have extremely sensitive skin, we recommend patch testing this product before using it.

Buy Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée now at Amazon.com

 

Differin Daily Deep Cleanser

6. Differin Daily Deep Cleanser

This cleanser is formulated with 5% benzoyl peroxide, which helps prevent future and treat existing acne breakouts without irritating or drying the skin.

This micronized formula penetrates deep into the pores of the skin to unclog them and absorb excess sebum.

This cleanser also contains glycerin, which deeply hydrates the skin and repairs the skin’s moisture barrier. It can also be used to treat ‘maskne’: acne caused by wearing face masks or other facial covers.

Key Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Reduces Acne
  • Oil-Free
  • Oil-Absorbing
  • Moisturizer-Releasing
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • Provides Deep & Powerful Cleansing
  • Recommended For:
    Acne-Prone & Oily Skin Types

Easily, one of the best face wash for acne

Buy Differin Daily Deep Cleanser now at Amazon.com

 

Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam

7. Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam

This ultra-hydrating cleansing foam helps to balance out oily and acne-prone skin without dehydrating it. The refreshing foam gently removes oil while the unique formula fights acne-causing bacteria without making your skin red or shiny.

This cleanser encourages the natural regeneration of irritated skin. The pH of this product is 5.5, which is the same as the skin’s natural pH, aids in the proper functioning of the acid mantle’s barrier function and the prevention of new pimples.

Key Ingredients: Panthenol

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Anti-Acne
  • pH Balanced
  • Oil-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • Alcohol-Free
  • Recommended For:
    Oily, Acne-Prone & Combination Skin Types

CONS:

  • Fragrance (Parfum)

Buy Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam at Amazon.com

 

Dr. Barbara Sturm Cleanser

8. Barbara Sturm The Cleanser

This gentle foaming cleanser removes impurities inside and on the skin, removes complexion makeup and impurities without disrupting the skin barrier function and pH of the skin.

It is formulated with purslane and aloe vera, which calm, soothe, moisturize, repair, and rejuvenate the skin.

Key Ingredients: Urea, Aloe Vera, Panthenol

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Thorough Yet Gentle Cleansing
  • Cruelty-Free
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • pH Balanced
  • Removes Complexion Makeup
  • Non-GMO
  • PEG-Free
  • Recommended For:
    Sensitive, Combination, Dry, Aging & Oily Skin Types

Buy Dr. Barbara Sturm Cleanser now at Amazon.com

NB: This cleanser contains fermented ingredients (Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate & Lactobacillus/Portulaca Oleracea Ferment), so those who are sensitive to ferments should be aware.

Kossma Chamomile Herb Cleansing Gel

9. Kossma Chamomile Herb Cleansing Gel

This cleanser gently lifts and removes water-soluble makeup as well as impurities, leaving skin looking radiant, fresh, and hydrated.
It’s also free from harsh sulfated detergents.

Key Ingredients: Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Chamomile Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Gluconolactone, Allantoin, Panthenol

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • Sulfate-Free
  • pH Balanced
  • Removes Makeup (Water Soluble)
  • Protect Skins Microbiome
  • Non-Drying
  • Light-Weight
  • Non-Comedogenic
  • Fragrance-Free,
  • Paraben-Free,
  • Oil-Free
  • Alcohol-Free
  • Recommended For:
    Sensitive, Oily, Dry, Acne-Prone & Combination Skin Types

Buy Kossma Chamomile Herb Cleansing Gel NOW

 

Important update
Our team has just released an informative piece on the best face washes suitable for fungal acne. This new article showcases the latest products currently in the market that are guaranteed to be safe and effective.

Avene Tolerance Extreme Cleansing Lotion - Fungal Acne Safe

** Discontinued–Avene Tolerance Extreme Cleansing Lotion –**(Discontinued)

This cleansing lotion is exceptionally gentle while cleansing the skin. This makes it suitable for hypersensitive skin. It is formulated with only seven key ingredients, all of which are very hydrating.

It contains glycerin and plant squalane, both of which are intensely hydrating and nourishing. The glycerin and caprylic/capric triglycerides present in this cleansing lotion have fungicidal properties, which can be beneficial to those with fungal acne.

The special ingredient in this cleanser is Avene Thermal Spring Water, which has been clinically shown to soothe the skin, preserve the microbiome balance and refine skin texture.

Key Ingredients: Avene Thermal Spring Water, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides

PROS:

  • Fungal Acne Safe
  • No-Rinse Formula
  • Soothes & Calms Irritated Skin
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Preservative-Free (Sterile Cosmetics)
  • Non Drying
  • Soap-Free
  • Soy & Wheat- Free
  • Oil-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • Vegan
  • Non-Comedogenic
  • Recommended For:
    Sensitive, Acne-Prone, Dry & Oily Skin Types

Buy Avene Tolerance Extreme Cleansing Lotion now at Amazon.com

 

 

Check our selection of highly-rated substitutes for the Tolerance Extreme Cleansing Lotion

 

Other Popular Facial Cleansers/Washes

Conclusion

It might feel appealing to skip cleansing at night and go straight to bed, but cleansing your skin twice a day will certainly benefit your skin by keeping it healthy, radiant, and youthful.

Cleansing the skin is one of the most effective ways to get a clearer, smoother and brighter complexion. So, it should not be neglected. If there’s one skincare practice you should make a habit out of, it should be cleansing your face religiously.

Preventing malassezia’s overgrowth and reducing the symptoms of fungal acne begins with taking care of your skin by avoiding triggers and keeping it clean.

To learn more about the  BEST face wash for Acne (Bacterial Acne) go here

Did you see your favorite product on the list? If you didn’t, drop us a line here. We’d love to hear from you.  You can help get your best/favorite products on the list by voting for them or sharing your story using them.

 

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