21 Best Non-Toxic & Natural Skincare Products for Acne

When it comes to acne struggles, trying to nail down the right products for your routine can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. (Add the task of narrowing down that list to non-toxic options, and it can feel nearly impossible to find what you’re looking for.) 

Nowadays, many skincare products on the market are polluted with sketchy ingredients that are linked to risks like developmental toxicity, fertility issues, and cancer.

However, with growing concerns regarding potential toxicity, there are also more non-toxic options available than ever before. Lots of brands are now prioritizing transparency, natural ingredients, and the health of consumers in their formulations.

We all have unique skin, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for clearing up acne. So in this article, I’m covering a list of products from varying brands, ingredients, and price points to help you find the best skincare products for your needs.

If you’re looking for a skincare solution that works, but you aren’t willing to compromise your health, keep reading for the best natural and non-toxic skincare products for acne-prone skin.

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase. We only make honest recommendations.

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The Best Non-Toxic & Natural Skincare for Acne

Contrary to popular belief, acne isn’t just limited to the early teenage years. (Did anyone else fall for the lie that once you hit adulthood, your breakouts would automatically disappear?)

Although acne is certainly more likely to occur during the teenage years because of hormonal changes, blemishes can occur at any time and as a result of many different factors… even newborns can get acne. 

Despite the normalcy of breakouts, stigmas surrounding the topic can make acne feel isolating. While acne is incredibly common and nothing to be ashamed of, skincare products that target acne can help to heal blemishes and prevent breakouts. The skincare market is saturated with acne solutions, and the myriad of choices can become overwhelming. 

When it comes to the safety of our everyday staples, knowledge is power. Being able to identify toxins on an ingredient label can be a helpful tool when shopping. Whatever stage of life you’re in, if you’re on the hunt for a regimen that can help clear up your complexion, stay tuned for the best non-toxic and natural skincare for acne. 

Before we dive into the best products, let’s cover the common toxins that should be avoided in your skincare routine, if possible. 

Watch Out for These Toxic Ingredients in Your Skincare Lineup

​Finding acne treatments that exclude potentially toxic chemicals often means having to overlook entire aisles of products. Many of our go-to stores sell products that have the potential to threaten health.

Luckily, more and more consumers are demanding “clean” formulas, and many brands are listening. Many natural skincare products yield great results, effectively clearing up acne, discoloration, scarring, and blemishes without including harsh chemicals.

If you’re trying to detoxify your skincare routine, it can be tough to decide where to begin. So, here’s what I recommend: Rather than trashing your entire regimen, an easier place to start can be implementing non-toxic changes into your routine once you’ve finished a product by replacing it with a clean alternative. (Unless, of course, you’re experiencing an acute reaction to a certain product!)

When you’re shopping for your next skincare item, keep a close eye on the ingredient list and try to avoid these common toxins:

Butylated Compounds

Commonly used as preservatives, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) are endocrine disruptors and can negatively impact fertility. BHT is also linked to inflammatory effects in the lungs, decreased potassium levels, and enlargements in the liver. 

Formaldehyde or Formaldehyde Releasers 

Sometimes used as a preservative, formaldehyde is carcinogenic. Although formaldehyde itself is not used as much in cosmetics and skincare products, formaldehyde-releasers are still very common.

This includes things like quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, polyoxymethylene urea, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, and bromopol. These ingredients release small amounts of formaldehyde over time. Exposure to formaldehyde has been shown to harm fertility and increase the risk of miscarriage. 

Fragrance

“Fragrance” (or parfum) is a common ingredient (not just in skincare, but in cleaning products and other goods as well). It can contain a mixture of health-threatening chemicals, some of which have been linked to fertility issues, cancer, and other health concerns. Companies aren’t required to disclose what’s in their fragrance on the ingredient label, so it’s important to opt for brands that are either fragrance-free or that provide transparency in their ingredient list. 

(With changing laws in California, you can sometimes find full fragrance ingredient lists online, but they’re often still difficult to find and decode.)

Hydroquinone

This skin-lightening ingredient, often used to treat hyperpigmentation, has been linked to cancer and organ toxicity. It can be found in products that are meant to treat things like acne scars and hyperpigmentation marks caused by acne. Although hydroquinone was once available over-the-counter, it’s now mostly only available with a prescription from a dermatologist.

Mineral Oil

Mineral oils, such as petrolatums, paraffin, and synthetic wax have been linked to cancer, although the risk posed does depend on how they’ve been processed. 

Parabens

Parabens (such as methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben) are also used as preservatives. These endocrine disruptors have been linked to diminished ovarian reserve, breast cancer and tumors, depression, and abnormal fetal development.

Polyethylene Glycols, or PEGS 

PEGs use ethylene oxide and 1,4 dioxane in production and the final product can be contaminated with both of these chemicals. Both of these chemicals are potentially carcinogenic, and ethylene oxide could potentially be an endocrine disruptor as well.

Phthalates

Often found in “fragrance,” phthalates are endocrine disruptors with links to fertility issues, breast cancer, pregnancy complications, and childhood developmental issues. 

Safer Ingredients to Treat Acne and Scars

Although toxic ingredients are frequently found in skincare, it doesn’t mean that they’re necessary for products to yield results. Many brands have created high-quality skincare solutions using clean, non-toxic formulas. There are lots of natural ingredients that have been shown to reduce breakouts, blemishes, and acne scars, while also improving complexion overall.

Here are some safer ingredients for your natural acne treatment regimen: 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a natural antibacterial and has been shown to improve skin conditions like wounds, sunburns, and acne. 

Magnolia Bark

Magnolia bark is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. The antibacterial properties help to fight acne-causing germs and prevent breakouts from forming. 

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3. It can help nourish the skin and combat inflammation, acne, and scarring. 

Salicylic Acid 

Salicylic acid is an active ingredient in acne products that helps to reduce the appearance and prevent the formation of blemishes. 

Tamanu Oil

Tamanu oil is chock-full of fatty acids and antioxidants. This antibacterial oil can help to treat acne and fade acne scarring. 

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is anti-inflammatory and aids in controlling oil production in the skin. Topical application of vitamin C has been shown to reduce acne as well as discoloration. 

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties in skincare. It can help to reduce inflammation and calm the skin while minimizing excess oil to prevent breakouts.

Tea Tree Oil (Maybe?!) 

Tea tree oil can be another potent acne treatment; however, it’s not the right choice for everyone. It can be very harsh and irritating for some. It can also be a skin sensitizer, so it can potentially cause more severe reactions the more you use it.

Therefore, if you do decide to try a product with tea tree oil for severe acne, you may want to only use it for a short amount of time.

Looking for the Best Natural Acne Treatments…

Now that we’ve covered what to look out for, here are the best natural and non-toxic acne skincare products. These formulas are effective and clean so you can get the results you’re looking for (without the bad stuff). 

How to Create the Perfect Skincare Routine

When it comes to formulating your skincare regimen, start with a high-quality cleanser, and then a toner. Next, apply any desired serums and treatments, and follow up with hydration. 

Note: If you’re trying to clear up your acne, it’s super important to make sure you understand your skin type. If your skin is dry and you use products that are specifically formulated for oily skin types, you run the risk of compromising your moisture barrier.

Translation? Your skin will overproduce oils to try and compensate for the dryness, causing more breakouts. Ensure that you’re using the appropriate products for your unique skin type and don’t skip moisturizer (no matter how oily your skin may be!). 

Now let’s get into the best natural and non-toxic skincare products to combat acne.

Best Non-Toxic Facial Cleansers for Acne Prone Skin

Put down the makeup wipes and opt for a non-toxic cleanser to deliver the deep clean that your skin craves. Here are my picks:

Primally Pure Cleansing Oil for Oily Skin + Acne-Prone Skin

Price: $20.00

Although oil may feel counterintuitive as a cleanser, this face wash promotes more balanced oil production while providing a deep clean for oily skin types. Made with castor oil, orange, and tamanu, this formula fights impurities while detoxifying and hydrating the skin.  

My take: This cleanser is so hydrating and melts makeup right off! It has a nice light scent and feels gentle on the skin. I like to do a double cleanse, starting with cleansing oil and finishing with a foaming cleanser.

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Crunchi Charcoal Facial Bar

Price: $26.00 

This cleanser comes in bar form and is made with charcoal and kaolin clay to remove impurities and detoxify the skin. It helps to clarify and balance the complexion and is made with natural, organic ingredients. Bonus points for sustainable packaging! 

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Best Non-Toxic & Natural Toners for Treating Acne Breakouts 

Don’t skip out on this step—toners are a helpful skincare tool to balance and improve the complexion of your skin.

DIME Beauty Acne Toning Serum

Price: $38.00

This product doubles as a toner and a serum. Made with salicylic acid and magnolia bark, this serum helps to reduce inflammation, fight oncoming breakouts, and refine pores while delivering a next-level glow.

Use code THEFILTERY for 20% off.

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Primally Pure Clarifying Mist

Price: $24.00

This convenient mist acts as a toner to clarify the skin. Made with neroli, glycerin, bergamot, and aloe vera, this spray targets excess oil, inflammation, and dark spots. The hydrating formula supports cell renewal and repairs discoloration from sun damage and scarring for a brighter, more even complexion.

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Rowe Casa Organics, Anti-Blemish Face Toner

Price: $17.00

This affordable spray-on toner blends witch hazel and rose water with essential oils like frankincense, lemon, and tea tree. The natural formula helps to reduce inflammation, combat acne, and improve the overall appearance of the skin. 

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Best Natural Serums & Treatments for Acne 

Serums and treatments are a great addition to your skincare roundup for tackling specific concerns. These products are all effective and clean. 

Be Green Blemish Defense

Price: $11.00

This spot treatment uses witch hazel, calendula, and willow bark to calm the skin, fight inflammation, and reduce the appearance of blemishes. It’s EWG-verified, vegan, and has a roller ball applicator. 

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Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Salicylic Acid Serum

Price: $35.00

Made with willow bark, salicylic acid, vitamin C, and CoQ10, this serum clears breakouts while improving skin tone and texture for glowing skin. 

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Primally Pure Clarifying Serum

Price: $52.00 

This oil-based serum is formulated with green tea, marula oil, and prickly pear oil to fight breakouts and scarring from acne and sun damage. This clarifying product provides deep hydration to reveal a glowing (but not greasy) complexion. 

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Rowe Casa Organics Anti-Blemish Spot Relief

Price: $23.00 

Made with simple ingredients like witch hazel, rose water, frankincense, lavender, and tea tree oil, this bare-bones formula fights blemishes without added toxins. 

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Best Moisturizers for Acne Prone Skin

No matter how acne-prone your skin may be, nourishing through a high-quality moisturizer is imperative for healthy skin.

DIME Beauty Probiotic Gel Cream

Price: $40.00

Designed to fight inflammation, blemishes, and redness, this formula is created with probiotic technology to ramp up the production of anti-microbial peptides and combat breakouts.

Use code THEFILTERY for 20% off.

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Primally Pure Clarifying Cream

Price: $34.00 

This whipped moisturizer has antioxidative effects to protect the skin from environmental stressors and alleviate breakouts. Made with grass-fed tallow, neroli, emu oil, and manuka, this anti-inflammatory formula delivers deep hydration and healing. 

My take: I really like this moisturizer. I have sensitive skin, and this product feels super gentle and nourishing. A little goes a long way, so this product lasts a while. I was worried that using tallow skincare might clog my pores, but it’s been the opposite experience for me! 

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Best Face Masks

Seeking self-care that simultaneously cures acne? Give these face masks a try- their non-toxic ingredients deliver impressive results.

Cocokind Turmeric Mask Stick

Price: $9.00

This affordable mask stick is created with turmeric, ginger, and tea tree oil to reduce dark spots, brighten the skin, and combat oxidative stress while promoting a more even, soft, bright, and clear complexion. The stick application makes it super easy for everyday or on-the-go. This mask can even be worn overnight! (Just make sure to lay down something to protect your pillow—this will stain anything it comes in contact with.)

My take: I’ve been using this mask for years, and I love it. The application is convenient, and it’s perfect to throw in your makeup bag for trips. I like using it as a spot treatment overnight or as an all-over face mask. I have noticed that it leaves behind a yellowish tint from the turmeric after extended wear, but it’s not too noticeable and goes away quickly. I’ve been able to easily conceal it with makeup!

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Best Non-Toxic Skincare Sets to Prevent & Treat Acne Breakouts 

If you’re looking for the whole shebang to amp up your skincare, these sets take the guesswork out of crafting your routine. They offer powerful acne-clearing benefits through clean formulations. 

DIME Beauty Acne Aid Trio

Price: $99.00 

This skincare regimen is more affordable than the others on this list and provides the basics: cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. If you’re looking for a simple acne routine to start, this is a great non-toxic option.

Made with salicylic acid and probiotics, this skincare trio helps to combat acne while reducing skin inflammation. 

Use code THEFILTERY for 20% off.

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Primally Pure Oil-Rich Regimen: The Works

Price: $182.00

Complete with a cleansing oil, clarifying bar, mist, serum, cream, face mask, and an everything spray, this regimen truly comes with the works. Designed to treat acne, this set has everything you need to detoxify your skin, combat breakouts, and maintain healthy levels of hydration (which will prevent the overproduction of more oils). Although the price is steep, this skincare set contains seven high-quality products for oily skin to help treat and prevent acne.

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I hope this article helped you find some non-toxic and organic acne skincare products to add to your routine. It’s important to remember that whether or not you experience regular breakouts, acne is a completely normal part of life. I hope you love these products! 

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