Neutrogena
Body Clear Acne Body Wash
In the shower, 3 times a weekThe cheap version of the same idea. Stronger scent, lower price, does the job.
approx. $9View details
CEphoto to come
CeraVe
SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin
Salicylic acid in a wash, for spots on the back and shoulders that no one talks about.
approx. $15
Available at 2 shops. Compare them and choose whichever works best for you.
Prices are a guide only, last checked August 2026, and they change often. Amazon prices are never shown here. Always check the price at the shop before buying.Affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you buy, generally at no additional cost to you.What it does
Spots on the back and shoulders are common and rarely discussed, which is exactly why people put up with them for years. This is the same active as the face exfoliant, in a form that covers an area you cannot easily reach with a small bottle. As a wash it has far less contact time than a leave on product, which makes it milder and a sensible place to start. It also has ceramides in it, so it does not leave the skin stripped the way most acne washes do.
What it will not do
Not for the face if you already use a leave on BHA, that is doubling up. And not a fix for a single large painful spot, that is a different problem.
How to use it
Three times a week. Leave it on the skin for about a minute before rinsing, otherwise the active has no time to work. A long handled brush solves the reach problem on the back.
Key ingredients
Salicylic acid plus ceramides and niacinamide, in a wash base.
Researched, not personally testedSelected from published information and product data, not from personal use.Last reviewed August 2026
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CeraVe
Moisturizing Cream
After showeringA tub of plain cream. The most skipped product on this list and the cheapest fix for tight, dry skin.
approx. $17View details