Background: I have gone through multiple anti-acne OTC (over the counter) and prescription treatments: including most washes (salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide), pads (ex. Stridex), on the spot treatments, the Proactive system, the Zeno device, Differin (adapalene gel), Tazorac Cream (tazarotene - a retinoid), medical facials & peels, and the big gun - Accutane (isotretinoin). Nowadays I'm happy to say my acne is no longer a major issue. I attribute this to years of research, trial and error with my skin type, many $$$ at the dermatologist, and the drug Accutane (knowing what I do now about the drug I DO NOT recommend it unless you have no other choice or are going in to the modelling business).
I have been using Neutrogena's Body Clear - Body Wash for at least 4 or 5 years now. This is the best long-term/maintenance OTC salycilic wash I have found in my 10 years of acne-combat experience. The only wash that I liked better was purchased from my dermatologist's office and that was $30 for a bottle 2/3rds this size.
Where to begin? This product works. It's not a cure for acne - nothing is. But it does something that is the most important step in your battle with acne: helps prevent it. Once your acne has formed, it can take a week or longer for it to heal. Preventing it from forming means it never reaches the stage where it becomes noticeable, bothersome and painful.
Tips:
- Don't buy acne face washes unless this product is too strong (see below), they're exactly the same thing as this except in a smaller, more expensive bottle.
- If you find this is drying your skin, use less and leave it on your skin for less time.
- Use in the shower while your pores are open.
- Always pat-dry your face.
- Always follow with Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture, Sensitive Skin, 4 Ounce or similar. There are multiple moisturizers in that line to suite your skin type: sensitive, combination, sun-protection - etc.
- Do not wash more than twice per day (with any acne products). It will upset your skin's pH balance and will likely do more harm than good.