Best benzoyl peroxide body wash for back acne

From whiteheads and blackheads to pustules and papules, back acne can be annoying to deal with—let alone successfully treat. Luckily the best back acne treatments come in a range of formulations, with a variety of active ingredients that’ll help acne-prone skin types keep blemishes at bay. But before we dive into the products you should add to your body’s skin-care routine, let’s cover what causes body acne—and how you can prevent it. 

What causes back acne?

As SELF has previously reported, back acne (or bacne) can flare up due to hormonal changes related to things like menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, and as a side effect of certain medications like corticosteroids. Sweating excessively (especially in tight, heat-trapping workout clothes) can also contribute to body acne, as sweat can cause clogged pores and eventually blackheads if it sits on the skin for too long. Those are the main causes, but some people are just more prone to developing bacne than others, thanks to genetics.  

Keeping your skin, hair, and clothes clean will prevent the buildup of acne-causing bacteria and oil. Moisturizing and gently exfoliating the skin on your back is also key to avoiding bacne, as the former prevents excessive oil production and the latter removes pore-clogging dead skin cells.

What are the most effective active ingredients for treating back acne?

The same ingredients that work effectively against facial acne will have a similar impact on back and body acne. Trying a product that contains benzoyl peroxide, which kills the type of bacteria that causes acne (C. acnes), is a great place to start, according to previous reporting by SELF. While this ingredient is highly effective, it can be irritating and even bleach your clothes, so be careful and do a patch test before applying it to your breakouts. For an antibacterial ingredient that’s gentler than benzoyl peroxide, look for tea tree oil, which can help address acne in people with more sensitive skin (but, again, it’s always smart to start with a patch test).

Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid and glycolic acid can help resolve bacne too, by sloughing away dead skin, excess oil, and bacteria, and, in turn, preventing clogged pores. Retinol, the over-the-counter version of prescription-strength retinoids, is another exfoliating option and it works by speeding up skin-cell turnover, so healthy skin emerges and dead skin sheds faster. Just make sure to slowly introduce a new, possibly irritating product to your skin like retinol—and wear sunscreen, as this ingredient can increase photosensitivity.

All of the aforementioned ingredients are great options for treating bacterial acne, but if your breakouts are itchy and look like uniform red bumps, you might have fungal acne, a skin condition that differs from regular acne in its causes and treatment.

As SELF has previously reported, this type of acne happens when an overgrowth of naturally occurring yeast on your skin causes irritation, inflammation, and the aforementioned itchy bumps. If you think that’s what you’re dealing with, seek out products with antifungal ingredients like pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. 

Bear in mind: Even once you know the key ingredients to look for, you may have to try a few different options before you find something that works for your skin. Just like with any new skin-care product, give your back acne treatment time to take effect and garner improvements—as much as several months, says the American Academy of Dermatology.

Your bacne might be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to stick with you forever. From acne body washes to pimple spot treatments, we’ve highlighted the very best back acne treatments below from top skin-care brands like Neutrogena, Paula's Choice, CeraVe, and more, containing the very ingredients that’ll help keep your back healthy and clear.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Craving clear skin is natural, so including the best benzoyl peroxide body washes can help you achieve flawless and healthy skin. Acne marks on the body can be very difficult to hide and get rid of, especially when we are supposed to look our best and keep stressors at bay. Hormonal changes, environmental changes, and unpredictable skin conditions can cause these issues.

Luckily, benzoyl peroxide prevents triggers and breakouts with its anti-bacterial property and stops greasiness. So, scroll down to check out our list of the top 10 benzoyl peroxide body washes.

Products
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Dr Song 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Medical Acne Wash
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Humane Acne Wash
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Nixa Skincare Acne Wash
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Replenix Acne Solutions Acne Wash
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Dermlogic Extra Strength Acne Wash
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Paula’s Choice Daily Skin Clearing Treatment
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Claridad Acne Treatment Gel
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Kivoria Skincare Acne Wash
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Tutta La Pelle Acne Wash
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Botanic Tree Acne Spot Treatment
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In This Article

  • Top 10 Best Benzoyl Peroxide Body Washes With Buying Guide In 2022
  • How To Choose A Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash
  • How To Use A Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash
  • Infographic: Benzoyl Peroxide Products
  • Why Trust StyleCraze?

Top 10 Best Benzoyl Peroxide Body Washes With Buying Guide In 2022

1. Dr Song 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Medical Acne Wash

Bid farewell to body acne with this body wash containing 10% benzoyl peroxide. Suitable for both the face and body, the formula works by eliminating acne-causing bacteria while preventing the buildup of oil, sebum, and impurities in the pores. It also contains purified water and glycerine to ensure your skin is left feeling clean without causing irritation or dryness. Ideal for all skin types, it is particularly effective against back acne, cystic acne, and acne spots.

Pros

  • Non-irritating formula
  • Free of parabens
  • Cruelty-free
  • Ideal for acne-prone skin

Cons

  • Some might find the scent of this product a bit overpowering.

2. Humane Acne Wash

This benzoyl peroxide wash for body acne treats moderate to severe acne in teens and adults. Formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide, its anti-inflammatory properties alleviate redness, eliminate dead skin cells, and reduce the appearance of blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. It also clears out pores to prevent acne, and is best-followed by an oil-free moisturizer and an appropriate sunscreen for daytime use. This exfoliating body wash is free of fragrances, making it ideal for those sensitive to strong scents.

Pros

  • Unscented
  • Free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin

3. Nixa Skincare Acne Wash

This body wash with benzoyl peroxide cleanses skin while reducing the appearance of acne spots and pimples. This non-oily formula containing glycerine and purified water clears pores of sebum, dirt, and impurities without drying the skin out. Formulated for severe acne, this product is suitable for teens and adults and provides moisture and hydration to the skin. Made with non-abrasive microbeads and coco betaine, this body wash leaves your skin feeling smooth, clean, and polished.

Pros

  • Non-irritating and non-oily formula
  • Effective against severe acne
  • Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin
  • Gentle formula suitable for daily use

Cons

  • Some might find that this body wash doesn’t lather enough.

4. Replenix Acne Solutions Acne Wash

This over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide body wash can be used twice daily for moderate to severe acne in children, teens, and adults. Formulated with micronized benzoyl peroxide, it eliminates acne-causing bacteria. It is also infused with aloe vera to nourish and hydrate the skin deeply for smooth, healthy skin. Free of soap and other drying ingredients, this body wash reduces the appearance of acne spots, blackheads, and pimples, while preventing breakouts and blemishes.

Pros

  • Non-drying and soap-free formula
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Ideal for daily use
  • Free of parabens and fragrances
  • Gluten-free and oil-free

Cons

  • It may not be as hydrating as expected.

5. Dermlogic Extra Strength Acne Wash

This dermatologist-recommended acne wash is formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide. It deeply cleanses pores and controls excess oil, preventing acne and breakouts. It also eliminates flaking and dryness to reveal smooth and clear skin. The face wash reduces the occurrence of clogged pores while fighting blemishes, zits, whiteheads, and blackheads. This non-irritating formula is suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Suitable for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Gentle and effective

Cons

  • Expensive

6. Paula’s Choice Daily Skin Clearing Treatment

This body wash with 5% benzoyl peroxide fights existing acne breakouts while preventing acne and pimples from reappearing. Infused with bisbolo and allantoin, this soothing body wash calms redness and inflammation for clearer, smoother skin. Effective against cystic acne, this product formulated with salicylic acid unclogs pores of excess sebum and impurities. It also contains licorice and bayberry extracts to calm and nourish the skin. Its lightweight, oil-free formula is suitable for all skin types.

Pros

  • Non-irritating and oil-free formula
  • Ideal for daily use
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • May contain sulfate

7. Claridad Acne Treatment Gel

This lightweight, gel-based body wash is effective against acne, blemishes, and excessive oil production. Formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide, this penetrating formula unclogs pores and prevents future breakouts without drying out the skin. Ideal for daily use, this non-greasy product is dermatologically tested and is suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. With glycol and purified water, this body wash leaves skin feeling smoother, cleaner, and healthier.

Pros

  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Non-greasy and non-comedogenic formula
  • Free of parabens
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • May not be best suited for sensitive skin.

8. Kivoria Skincare Acne Wash

This daily-use body wash contains 10% benzoyl peroxide to reduce the appearance of acne, blackheads, and pimples for clear and healthy skin. Effective against severe acne, this formula eliminates acne-causing bacteria while reducing redness and blemishes. Suitable for all skin types, this product contains natural ingredients like aloe vera juice, vitamin C, and green tea extracts to clear the skin off dirt and impurities while providing nourishment and moisture.

Pros

  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Free of fillers
  • Free of parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • Some might find that this body wash doesn’t lather enough.

9. Tutta La Pelle Acne Wash

Your hunt for a soap-free body wash that gently exfoliates the skin ends here. This one from Tutta La Pelle not only rids the skin of impurities but also reduces the appearance of blackheads, pimples, and blemishes. Formulated to treat severe acne in teens and adults, this product contains 10% benzoyl peroxide to clear pores of acne-causing bacteria, dirt, and oil. This non-drying, non-irritating formula is dermatologist-tested to be effective against back acne and cystic acne, leaving the skin feeling clean, supple, and rejuvenated.

Pros

  • Non-drying and non-irritating formula
  • Soap-free and oil-free
  • Free of parabens and fragrances
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • Some might find the texture of this product a bit watered-down.

10. Botanic Tree Acne Spot Treatment

This natural gel-based body wash contains 10% micronized benzoyl peroxide, which efficiently cleans the skin and unclogs the pores for brighter, healthier-looking skin. This fast-absorbing formula containing bamboo and peppermint extracts gently exfoliates the skin and reduces the appearance of blackheads, whiteheads, back acne, and nodules. Suitable for all skin types, this product is ideal for daily use for skin that needs cleansing and hydration without causing any irritation or dryness.

Pros

  • Lightweight, non-irritating formula
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Free of alcohol and synthetic oils

Cons

  • Some might find the texture of this product slightly heavy.

Now that we have had a look at the 10 best benzoyl peroxide body washes in 2022, let us look at some things to consider when picking a product best-suited for your unique skin requirements.

How To Choose A Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash

  • Skin type

Benzoyl peroxide is a potent ingredient that is effective in clearing acne and blemishes. High concentrations of benzoyl peroxide might not be suitable for those with sensitive skin. For dry skin, you should look for a product with accompanying hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or natural plant extracts to prevent the body wash from excessively drying out the skin. Oily and combination skin will benefit from a product, which has non-comedogenic and non-irritating ingredients such as green tea extracts and vitamin C.

  • Specific concerns

While most body washes that contain benzoyl peroxide are effective against a range of acne-prone skin problems, some are designed for specific skin concerns. If you are specifically looking for a solution to fight back acne, cystic acne, or blackheads, pick a product designed especially for the purpose. Face acne will benefit from a product that is mild and hydrates the skin while clearing out pores.

  • Texture

With any body wash, the texture of the product can make or break your shower experience. Pick a product that lathers well, especially to target hard-to-reach areas like the back. If you are also looking for some hydration, pick a body wash with a creamy texture that will nourish and smoothen the skin. Those looking for gentle exfoliation should choose a product with micronized beads to help lightly scrub the skin.

How To Use A Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash

A body wash with benzoyl peroxide helps unclog pores and prevent future breakouts. To use, gently lather onto wet skin, targeting problem areas like the back. Leave it on for a few minutes for the active ingredients to work their magic, and wash thoroughly. Benzoyl peroxide has bleaching properties and might stain fabric, so make sure you are using an appropriate towel to wipe your skin. Follow it up with an oil-free moisturizer and a suitable sunscreen for best results.

Benzoyl peroxide body washes can remove scars and acne marks from your body while improving the texture of your skin. These products can also eliminate sudden breakouts in acne-prone skin. You can use benzoyl peroxide body washes to prevent the accumulation of excess oil, impurities, and sebum. Moreover, benzoyl peroxide body washes are also effective against back acne and cystic acne. The body washes on our list are enriched with natural ingredients and come with non-irritating formulas that are suitable for extremely sensitive skin. The anti-inflammatory properties in these products reduce redness and get rid of dead skin cells. However, while purchasing the right benzoyl peroxide body wash for yourself, steer clear of the ones that don’t lather enough or polish the skin well.

Infographic: Benzoyl Peroxide Products

Take a look at our infographic below to understand the various points you should consider when purchasing benzoyl peroxide products. It will help you maintain a checklist to refer to while including benzoyl peroxide products in your skin care regime. In addition, this infographic can help you become conscious of the quantity of benzoyl peroxide that your skin care products should contain.

Infographic: light food recipes

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Kirtana Divakar, lives and breathes skin care and is an ardent lover of science-backed skin care products. She considered skin type and concerns, ingredient lists of products, and checked many user reviews online to compile this list of the best benzoyl peroxide body washes for clear skin. These products have antibacterial properties that help prevent breakouts and stop greasiness.

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  • Author

Kirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru. She developed a deep passion... more

Is benzoyl peroxide good for back acne?

It's medical jargon that means any treatment that you can buy without a prescription. Studies show that the following OTC acne products can help clear mild (or moderate) back acne when used along with acne-friendly skin care: Benzoyl peroxide (emollient foam wash): This helps to kill the bacteria that cause acne.

Which body wash is best for back acne?

A quick look at the 13 best acne body washes:.
Best foaming wash: PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash..
Best exfoliating wash: Proactiv Deep Cleansing Acne Body Wash..
Best budget wash: Solimo Clarifying Pink Grapefruit Body Wash..
Best for neck, back, and shoulders: Neutrogena Body Clear Acne Treatment Body Wash..

What's the best benzoyl peroxide body wash?

The Overall Best: PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 4% Daily Control. Best Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash For Dry Skin: CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser. Best Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash That Absorbs Excess Oil: Differin Daily Deep Cleanser. Strongest Benzoyl Peroxide Body Wash: Replenix BP 10% Acne Wash + Aloe ...

Can I use benzoyl peroxide as a body wash?

A body wash with benzoyl peroxide helps unclog pores and prevent future breakouts. To use, gently lather onto wet skin, targeting problem areas like the back. Leave it on for a few minutes for the active ingredients to work their magic, and wash thoroughly.