Do you suffer from frustrating acne? And nothing you do ever works? We get you! Pimples and acne can take a toll on your confidence. But what if we tell you there are soap brands that can treat your pimple and acne-prone skin?
Soap is an essential part of skincare, and choosing the right one matters because we use it every day. There are plenty of soap brands with ingredients that can benefit your skin. Medicated soaps with AHA/BHAs, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sodium sulfacetamide, zinc, or tea tree oil work well for oily skin, while gentle soaps with moisturizing ingredients are better for dry, acne-prone skin.
If you’re unsure which soap brand is best for treating your acne-prone skin, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best soaps for acne and pimples. Read on to find out which one may be right for you.
How We Chose Our Top Picks
Finding trustworthy brands that deliver real results wasn’t easy. We tested a few, analyzed reviews from multiple e-commerce and beauty platforms, and shortlisted 30 brands known for producing the best acne soap bars.
From these, we selected the top 15 based on their composition. We prioritized soaps with active ingredients like salicylic acid, AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), benzoyl peroxide, and tea tree oil. These ingredients are known for unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and preventing buildup to keep acne under control.
We also considered affordability and accessibility to ensure that achieving clear, smooth skin doesn’t have to cost a fortune. While all the soaps on this list are great options, it’s best to identify your skin type and acne concerns before making a choice.
| Our Top Picks | |
| Best Overall | Himalaya |
| Best Budget | Medimix |
| Best for all skin types | SebaMed |
| Best-selling | Pears |
15 Best Soaps For Pimple & Acne
Here are some soaps for acne and pimples that you can try to get baby-smooth skin.
1. Richfeel Naturals
Richfeel is an underrated beauty brand founded by leading Indian beauty physicians Apoorva Shah and Dr. Sonal Shah. Since 1986, Richfeel Naturals has been addressing the hair and skin care needs of numerous Indians. The brand is proud to be all-natural, cruelty-free, and vegan. The Richfeel Calendula anti-acne soaps are safe for use on both the face and body. With luxurious natural ingredients, these soaps will leave your skin smooth and blemish-free.
Ingredients to Expect: Calendula extract, Titanium Dioxide, Disodium EDTA, perfume
Features:
- Calendula within the soap fights acne-prone skin and is best for dry and sensitive skin.
- Leaves a visible radiance and bright look after use.
- The active ingredients within the soap prevent photoaging caused due to sun exposure.
- The soaps are 100% vegetarian and formulated by leading beauty physicians.
2. Sebamed
A German-based global skincare brand that is best known among consumers for providing a range of products that have a pH of 5.5. Unlike other brands, SebaMed understands the distress that products with high pH can cause to the skin. Hence, it brings cleansing bars, creams, shower gels, lotion, and a plethora of skin care products that are gentle on the skin. The Sebamed Clear Face cleansing bars are created to fight against blackheads and whiteheads. In addition to fighting acne-causing bacteria, the soap also hydrates and moisturizes the skin.
Ingredients to Expect: Vitamin E, Lactic Acid, Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate, Lecithin, Vital Amino Acids, etc
Features:
- The soap bars are clinically tested and developed under the supervision of a highly skilled dermatologist.
- Free from parabens, paraffin, propylene glycol, etc.
- Great for cleansing mild pores over the skin.
- The active ingredients fight against free radicals and prevent aging.
3. Pears
A Hindustan Unilever product, Pears has gotten a place for itself as the most trusted and reliable brand in the Indian market. The soap has a mild fragrance and is dermatologically tested, which ensures the credibility of this product. If you are looking for an acne-fighting soap that mildly lathers, then this is the brand for you. Enriched with moisture-locking ingredients, the soap shields the skin against germs while clearing the skin from acne. You will find three different lightly fragrant variations of soaps under this brand (Pears Soft & Fresh, Pears Pure & Gentle, and Pears Oil Clear & Glow) that are equally effective.
Ingredients to Expect: Glycerin, sorbitol, sodium stearate, natural oils, polyethylene glycol, etc.
Features:
- It helps in keeping dryness at bay.
- It is great for people with mild acne issues.
- Improves skin condition
- The soap bars can be used regularly on the face as well as the body.
- It is gentle on the skin and has PEG (polyethylene glycol), which is a great cleansing agent.
4. Medimix
Medimix is a purely herbal and ayurvedic skin and hair care brand that began its journey by using viprathi oil to cure skin-related issues. Today, the brand offers a wide range of skincare products, from face wash to intimate hygiene to bathing bars and more. Currently, the brand offers four different variants under its soap line. Each bathing bar has acne-fighting ingredients along with ingredients that help moisturize, brighten, and improve your skin’s texture. Medimix soaps have also shown effective results against skin conditions like allergic dermatitis and scabies. The brand also offers a variety of other products, such as body lotion, facewash, shampoos, and more. You can use Medimix coupons from GrabOn to get their products at a lower price.
Ingredients to Expect: Turmeric, Argan Oil, Sandalwood, Neem, Natural Glycerin, Eladi Oil
Features:
- Expect a blend of potent herbs for effective acne control.
- Ingredients like neem help heal existing acne.
- The soaps also offer a burst of freshness with every use.
- A reliable brand that has been loved by generations for its natural approach.
- It helps in keeping skin firm and toned.
- The scent of the Medimix soap is refreshing.
5. Himalaya
Himalaya offers a wide range of health and wellness products, all backed by scientific research and made from 100% natural ingredients. Since its founding in 1930, the company has utilized traditional Indian Ayurvedic science to create effective solutions for various health needs. Their store features a diverse selection of skincare products suitable for all ages. Notably, their Himalaya Neem and Turmeric soap is formulated with natural ingredients that help control bacteria on the skin’s surface and reduce sebum production, effectively addressing acne issues.
Ingredients to Expect: Neem, Turmeric, Sandalwood, Kanaka Taila Oil
Features:
- Neem’s antibacterial properties wage war on acne.
- Turmeric helps reduce inflammation and redness.
- The bathing bars keep excess oil in check.
- The soaps are delicate on the skin and tough on acne.
6. Chandrika
A legacy that has been running for the last 80 years, Chandrika is created with some of the best natural ingredients that soothe both the body and the mind. Founded by Ayurvedic physician Sri Kesavan Vaidyar, the brand aims to bring together herbal elements that can cure any skin concern. If you use this brand’s soap, you are sure to get a natural therapeutic experience. The acne-fighting soaps by Chandrika have some of the best antioxidant agents that heal acne and prevent scars.
Ingredients to Expect: Sandalwood, Coconut Oil, Patchouli Oil, Neem, Tulsi
Features:
- Sandalwood extract lends a healing touch, thereby reducing inflammation.
- The coconut oil in the soaps nourishes and hydrates skin.
- All soaps at Chandrika are free from harsh chemicals and additives.
- Chandrika is a legacy company, that is trusted by many.
- It balances the skin’s health inside out, leaving you with healthy and happy skin.
7. Soulflower
Soulflower is a 100% cruelty-free brand that prioritizes on picking the best components from nature and captivating their essence into products that would best suit all Indian skin. At its core, the company believes in providing the best organic-based solutions for all hair and skin concerns. The company has also been certified by Ecocert Cosmos and manufactures one of the best acne soaps in India – The Soulflower Aloe Vera Soap for Acne & Scar Free Face & Skin. Its Natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties, along with rich vitamins & other nutrients, help with your acne, pimples, scars, blemishes, clogged pores, sunburn, unpleasant body odor & signs of aging.
Ingredients to Expect: Aloe vera, Basil, Olive, Coconut Oil, Castor Oil
Features:
- The products are SLS-free and are made using traditional techniques.
- The active ingredients draw out impurities and leave a clearer complexion.
- All the soaps are vegan and approved by the FDA.
- The soaps will give you an aromatic bathing experience.
- The company uses no artificial fragrances or colors.
8. Khadi Natural
Made in India, Khadi Natural was founded in 2008 by Gaurav Singh. Khadi Natural creates authentic natural products that invigorate the skin with radiance and inner glow. The herbal soaps by the brand are ISO, WHO, and GMP certified, which makes them a reliable option. One of the best Khadi soaps is their Khadi Neem Soap, which is a great choice for acne-prone skin. All their soaps are alcohol, paraben, and silicone-free, which makes them a perfect option for those with damaged skin. Do you want to try out their products? GrabOn offers Khadi Natural coupons you can use to get your hands on a bunch of Khadi skincare.
Ingredients to Expect: Neem Leaves Oil, Coconut Oil, Glycerine, Rose water in vegetable oil, Soap Base.
Features:
- Expect a blend of herbs that creates a harmonious formula.
- The soaps actively fight off acne-causing elements.
- Ingredients like neem give antibacterial properties and help fade scars.
- The formula is sulfate-free and hence acts as a gentle cleansing soap.
- All its soaps are hand-made with essential oils.
9. Getrid
A great over-the-counter soap for treating acne, Getrid is a great pocket-friendly option for every household. This brand stands out because of its minimalist approach to developing its products. With just a few ingredients, Getrid has created acne-fighting soaps that are free from any harmful chemically synthesized elements. This non-comedogenic soap is available on various e-commerce platforms, such as Amazon. Though the soap is extremely effective, it may cause some dryness. Always follow this soap with a good moisture-locking lotion.
Ingredients to Expect: Salicylic acid, Aloe vera, Jojoba Oil, Precipitated sulfur
Features:
- It has a simple formulation that is developed for targeted action.
- The soaps have salicylic acid and sulfur, which are great exfoliators.
- The soaps are great for people with mild acne issues.
- It is safe to use both on the body and face.
- It is an affordable solution for all budgets.
- It is infused with natural ingredients such as aloe vera & jojoba oil to help maintain skin hydration.
10. The Derma Co
The Derma Co is a popular skincare brand that has products for skin concerns ranging from acne marks, pigmentation, dull skin, open pores, and dry or dull skin. Along with soaps, the brand also has a wide range of anti-acne face serums that absorb quickly into the skin and leave a blemish-free skin. The Derma Co offers soap bars with some of the most trending and effective acne-fighting ingredients, like The Salicylic acid + Charcoal Daily Syndet soap. It is well-suited for all skin types and helps in fighting acne and eliminating excess oil. You can use the Derma Co. coupons on GrabOn to get exclusive discounts on your skincare orders.
Ingredients to Expect: Salicylic acid, Charcoal, Tea Tree oil, Chamomile, Aloe Vera powder, etc.
Features:
- You can order this product online from e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart (even BlinkIt) without a prescription.
- Works great on restoring skin’s health while fighting acne.
- The soaps repair skin barriers and retain moisture within the skin.
- It significantly reduces oil production, thereby preventing blackheads, acne, and enlarged pores.
- It soothes inflammation and nourishes the skin.
11. Alite
Another extremely affordable option on our list, Alite, is an effective antibacterial soap brand that has soothing and healing powers. The Alite anti-acne soap bar, with salicylic acid, cleanses the skin. With regular use, you will be able to get rid of dead skin cells, oil, and surface dirt. For best results, you can use it on wet skin and leave it for a few before washing it off. Its deep cleansing effect will reduce sebum production on your skin and prevent any pustule formation. Regular use can exfoliate dead skin cells and improve skin texture.
Ingredients to Expect: Tea Tree Oil, Allantoin, Vitamin E, Fragrance
Features:
- It prevents the plugging of pores and kills microbes.
- Allantoin within the soap keeps skin hydrated without greasiness.
- Vitamin E nourishes skin for a radiant glow.
- Tea Tree Oil soothes inflammation, reduces redness, and helps prevent future breakouts.
12. E-Acne
Available at any online and offline medical store, E-Acne is a medicated over-the-counter acne-fight soap that prevents the formation of acne and is extremely effective on oily skin. It caters to the skin care needs of acne-prone people who need proper care. The brand, however, may be safe for use only by certain age groups. We advise you to read the label carefully before its application. You can get products from this brand at discounted prices at Apollo Pharmacy by using online promo codes for additional savings.
Ingredients to Expect: Palm & Coconut Oil, Aloe vera extract, Glycerine, Salicylic acid, Triclosan, etc
Features:
- It is best to inhibit bacterial attacks on the skin.
- It can be a good preventive solution as it has antibacterial Triclosan.
- The soap offers a deep and clarifying effect.
- It is easily accessible to all.
13. Fix Derma
Fixderma was founded in 2006 as an innovative cosmeceutical company. The company was recognized for its effective personal care solution at Vogue’s 2022 Beauty Festival. Fix Derma launched its Salyzap soap bar to help people with acne-prone skin. Along with antibacterial agents, this soap also has elements(like kojic acid)that reduce blemishes and scars. The antioxidants within the soaps help to revive skin and give it a youthful glow.
Ingredients to Expect: Salicylic Acid, Vitamin E, Triclosan, Glycerin, Tea Tree Oil, Kojic Acid etc
Features:
- It can be used twice regularly for better results.
- An excellent anti-inflammatory soap.
- A reliable brand for moderate to mild acne.
- It maintains the natural pH of the skin.
- All Fixderma soaps are paraben-free and dermatologically tested.
14. D’Acne
Glenmark’s D’Acne is known for manufacturing acne-specific products such as anti-acne gel, face wash, and soaps. Their soaps, in particular, are popular for reducing keratinization and sebum secretion. Along with anti-acne agents, the soap also contains moisturizing elements that nourish the skin. It has proven effective against mild, moderate, and severe body acne. The product, however, may cause some dryness and would require a doctor’s guidance before use. Users with sensitive skin must consult a dermatologist before using this product as it has white soft and liquid paraffin that may not be suitable for all skin types.
Ingredients to Expect: Aloe Extract, Allantoin, Di-Sodium Edetate, etc
Features:
- The soaps are clinically tested and manufactured by a reputable pharma company, Glenmark.
- The soaps boost skin’s resilience against breakouts.
- Its expert ingredients like salicylic acid clear clogged pores, and aloe extract soothes the skin and reduces acne scars.
- It is a dermat-trusted acne-treating soap that can be used for the body and face.
15. ACNOFF
A brand that produces non-comedogenic soap bars specifically designed for excessively oily skin. ACNOFF soap bars can be applied to both the face and body. With regular use, you will notice a significant improvement in your skin’s texture while also protecting it against photoaging. The brand not only aids in acne control but also promotes skin healing, resulting in a brighter and healthier appearance.
Ingredients to Expect: Allantoin, Australian Tea Tree Oil, Vitamin E, Titanium Dioxide, etc
Features:
- The soaps have a scientifically formulated blend for dual benefits.
- It prevents scarring and gives a clean appearance to the skin.
- You will experience reduced redness and irritation after a few applications.
- Vitamin E prevents progression, i.e., non-inflammatory acne to inflammatory acne, prevents acne scarring, and preserves normal health & integrity of the skin.
What Is Body Acne?
If you have small bumps on your back, chest, shoulder, and other parts of the body, then you may have body acne. It is a common skin condition characterized among many Indians by the appearance of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. This may happen when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to inflammation and the formation of acne lesions.
Many factors can lead to body acne, such as hormonal fluctuations, excess oil production, tight-fitting clothing, and sweat. Most body acne is cured by topical treatments such as gentle salicylic acid cleaners, the use of benzoyl peroxide soap bars, etc. These are the most affordable acne treatments on the market. However, if your body doesn’t show any signs of improvement within 8 weeks, then we suggest you visit a dermatologist to get the right treatment.
How Does Anti-Acne Soap Work?
Anti-acne soaps are formulated to address the underlying causes of acne by providing a targeted cleansing approach. These soaps typically contain active ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur, which help to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and control the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and preventing pore blockages, while benzoyl peroxide targets bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Sulfur has antibacterial and keratolytic properties that aid in removing excess oil and promoting healthy skin turnover. When using anti-acne soap, it’s important to follow the instructions provided and to introduce it gradually into your skincare routine to prevent over-drying or irritation. Regular use, combined with other acne-fighting products, can help improve the overall appearance of acne-prone skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use anti-acne soaps every day?
Most commercial anti-acne soaps are designed for daily use, but be sure to read the label for specific instructions.
- Will these soaps work for sensitive skin?
Many of the brands featured in this blog work well for sensitive skin, but it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before full use. We recommend SebaMed for those trying their first anti-acne soap.
- Can I use anti-acne soap alongside my existing skincare routine?
To incorporate these soaps into your routine, you must ensure that the products you use besides the soap complement each other.
- How long will it take to see the results?
Results can vary, but many users notice improvements within a few weeks of consistent use.
- Are these soap brands suitable for all ages?
Most of these brands offer variations that are suitable for various age groups. Check the packaging for age recommendations.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right soap for acne or pimples is essential, as it serves as the first line of defense (and offense). For most individuals with acne, mild soaps that cleanse thoroughly and nourish the skin are ideal. However, those dealing with body acne should consider using medicated soaps specifically designed for body use, which contain anti-acne ingredients.
If your acne is limited to your face, it’s better to opt for a suitable face wash rather than a medicated face soap. Regardless of the soap you choose, always remember to apply a suitable moisturizer and sunscreen after bathing. We hope these recommendations help keep your skin happy! At GrabOn, we offer a variety of beauty coupons that help you save on both skincare and makeup.
Reviewed by DR. B LAKSHMI DIVYA
Registration Number: 74576
MBBS, MD – Dermatology, MBBS, MD – Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
