The formula also features alpha hydroxy acids—lactic and glycolic acids—and squalane and niacinamide to hydrate and calm the skin.
Key ingredients: retinol, glycolic acid, niacinamide | Who it’s for: people prone to hyperpigmentation or those with uneven texture | Fragrance-free: yes
Best Body Wash: Murad Acne Control Acne Body Wash
Why it’s worth it: Target breakouts on your back, chest, and shoulders with Murad’s Acne Control Acne Body Wash. This shower sister features 1% salicylic acid to dig deep into clogged pores and treat active breakouts, while an exfoliating duo—date seed powder, a physical exfoliant ideal for oily skin and removing stubborn oil buildup, and glycolic acid—unveils smoother, revived skin. Green tea and licorice root extracts step to stave off irritation, thank goodness.
Since this formula includes a chemical exfoliant, be gentle as you lather. “If you scrub too vigorously, you end up over-drying the skin, which causes the skin to produce more oil, subsequently causing more breakouts,” New York-based dermatologist Valerie Goldburt, MD, previously hared with Allure.
Key ingredients: salicylic acid (1%), glycolic acid, date seed powder, green tea, licorice root | Who it’s for: those with active breakouts | Fragrance-free: no
Best Body Lotion: CeraVe SA Lotion
Why it’s worth it: New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist David Kim, MD, vouches for the CeraVe SA Lotion (along with the SA Body Wash), which features salicylic acid while managing to stay gentle and deeply hydrating. “BHA is lipophilic, meaning oil-loving, so it’s great for clearing excess oil from the skin and, therefore, preventing acne,” Dr. Kim explains. (However, he notes that CeraVe doesn’t disclose the exact concentration of salicylic acid.) Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides round out the skin-comforting formula to ensure all-day hydration.
Occasionally, body moisturizers can be cloying and exacerbate body acne, but this lightweight lotion leaves you feeling super soothed and clog-free—so it’s a great option to pair with other acne products on this list.
Key ingredients: salicylic acid, ceramides, hyaluronic acid | Who it’s for: everyone | Fragrance-free: yes
Best Spot Treatment: Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
Why it’s worth it: When you’re battling body acne concentrated mostly on your shoulders and chest, Dr. Mraz recommends Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment, a prescription-strength topical retinoid available over the counter. “It helps to keep the pores open, ridding them of clogging sebum and bacteria,” she tells Allure. Did we mention it’s won three Best of Beauty Awards to date? It simply works.
