Why a Dermatologist Wants You to Use This Acne Cleanser Daily (Now on Sale!)—Especially if You Have Dry Skin
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I know when I see a gnarly zit forming, I reach for Peace Out’s cutely named Acne Dots (pimple patches), because I know they’ll actually get the job done. I don’t mess around — I don’t have time to gingerly slather creams and serums and hope that over the course of a week or two, the blemish will fade. I need a one-night solution, and that solution has always been Peace Out‘s acne stickers. And luckily, the skincare brand has a similar approach when it comes to acne cleansers too, which is why they launched the Acne Gel Cleanser ($29) — now on sale during Sephora’s spring event.
What Makes the Acne Gel Cleanser so Good?
The Peace Out Acne Gel Cleanser has an all-star ingredient lineup that’s actually effective without freaking skin out. Featuring 2 percent salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates skin), maltobionic acid (a non-irritating member of the polyhydroxy acid group that fights breakouts as well as fine lines and wrinkles — we love a multitasker!), and ceramide complex (a cosmetic “system” of veggie-derived lipids that infuses the skin’s barrier with nourishment), this cleanser prevents breakouts and promotes a healthier complexion in real-time. This trifecta of ingredients gives skin what it needs to look more radiant, lively, and supple — while preventing breakouts.
It also has a really nice, satisfying jelly texture to transforms into foam once you lather. I always appreciate details like this, since I love it when my morning and night cleansing routine feels more spa-like than it should.
Another great thing about Peace Out, is that their products are never formulated with iffy ingredients, such as formaldehydes, irritating alcohols and fragrances, synthetic fragrances, BPA, BHA, phthalates, and over 1,400 banned ingredients in the EU. As a shopping editor, I unfortunately come across so many brands pushing out products with a lack of transparency about their ingredient list, and it’s safe to say that Peace Out isn’t part of that camp.
Lastly? This formula is great for all skin types: normal, dry, combo, oily skin can all use this cleanser. And it’s a great option for sensitive folks, and those who battle with dry skin.
My Honest Review of the Peace Out Acne Gel Cleanser
I’ve been dealing with some pregnancy hormone-related breakouts, so I was really happy to get my hands on something gentle and effective. I’ve been using this new formula for about a week now, and I’ve already noticed improvement in my complexion. The zits that I had in between my brows (sigh) and on my chin have shrunk — but without leaving my skin irritated.
As someone who has combo skin, I was a little worried at first it wouldn’t clean-clean my skin (I usually prefer a formula that foams and really gets the gunk out of my pores), but this gel formulation leaves my face feeling fresh, yet supple (aka, not completely stripping the barrier).
Lastly, the scent is there, but it’s very subtle (a light lavender that feels natural). Overall, I’m really impressed with my experience and with the results.
What Does a Dermatologist Think?
Dr. Bottiglione, Arizona Board-Certified dermatologist, tells us that while this cleanser doesn’t treat acne, it does contain the right ingredients to help prevent acne.
“Use a cleanser like this daily, especially at night to clean off excess oil, dirt, and make up. The salicylic acid is the best ingredient in this formulation because it will slightly help to minimize acne,” he says. As for who this cleanser is best for? Dr. Bottiglione would recommend this for someone who “gets occasional breakouts,” explaining, “It won’t treat the acne, but can help keep your skin clean to avoid new breakouts. For those with more severe acne, they may need a prescription to clear their acne.”
And if you have dry skin, definitely reach for a bottle of this stuff: “The formulation has several moisturizing ingredients so it might be a good option for those with dry skin.”
Experts in This Article
Dr. Bottiglione: An Arizona Board-Certified dermatologist with 40 years of experience
