22 Best Drugstore Face Cleansers To Buy In 2023

Clear all the impurities and rejuvenate your skin with these gentle, foamy formulas.

Reviewed by Mary Ajaka, Makeup Artist
Written by Esha Saxena
Edited by Srijita De, Certified Style & Image Consultant
Fact-checked by Asmita De  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

A face cleanser thoroughly removes impurities and accumulated dirt from your skin. You must get a formula that is gentle on the skin and does not aggravate any allergies. This is why you need the best drugstore face cleansers that are carefully formulated to remove unwanted impurities and makeup effectively but gently. Some facial cleansers can also minimize the appearance of blemishes, while some rejuvenate your skin. Based on the requirements of your skin, you can find a facial cleanser with just the right ingredients that will give you the best benefits. In this article, we have rounded up the 22 best drugstore face cleansers. Check them out below!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
Price on Amazon
Best Alcohol-Free:Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Comedogenic:Bioré Warming Anti-Blackhead Cleanser
Price on Amazon
Best Sebum Control:Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam
Price on Amazon
Best Gentle Formula:St. Botanica Awaken Hydrating Face Wash
Price on Amazon
Best For Exfoliation:Plum Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash
Price on Amazon
Best For Pore Minimization:Garnier Skin Active The Gentle Sulfate-Free Cleanser
Price on Amazon
Best For Uneven Skin Tone:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Facial Cleanser
Price on Amazon
Best Dermatologically Tested:Burt's Bees Gentle Cream Cleanser
Price on Amazon
Best For Moisturizing:CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Price on Amazon

22 Best Drugstore Cleansers

1. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

4.6
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser Image: Cetaphil
Review

This drugstore classic is a low-foaming face wash that removes excess oil and dirt without drying or irritating your skin. It is also non-comedogenic, making it the perfect option for sensitive skin. Make sure to use this twice a day and follow up with your favorite moisturizer afterward.

Also Recommended By: The Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser has also made it to the lists by Today.[1]14 best drugstore face washes and cleansers of 2023 – TODAY https://www.today.com/style/15-drugstore-face-washes-celebrity-experts-trust-great-skin-t102678

Pros

  • Gentle on the skin
  • Fragrance-free
  • Suitable for acne-prone skin
  • Long-lasting
  • Leaves skin feeling clean

Cons

  • None

protip_icon Did You Know?
Dermatologists all around the world recommend using this Cetaphil cleanser for treating acne and rosacea.

Why It’s Worth Buying: The product has more than 16,947 reviews claiming its efficacy.
Price at the time of publication: $22.88

2. Best Alcohol-Free:Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash

4.6
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Face Wash Image: Neutrogena
Review

If your skin is prone to breakouts, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash is the ideal cleanser for you. It contains 2% salicylic acid that helps unclog pores and fight acne efficiently. You don’t have to worry about the formula drying your skin out as it maintains the pH balance of your skin while thoroughly cleansing it. Go ahead and check out this YouTuber’s video for more details about the product.

Pros

  • Alcohol-free
  • Gentle on the skin
  • Contains salicylic acid
  • Helps prevent blemishes
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

None

Why It’s Worth Buying: This product has garnered over 8,426 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
Price at the time of publication: $14.76

3. Best Non-Comedogenic:Bioré Warming Anti-Blackhead Cleanser

4.2
Bioré Warming Anti-Blackhead Cleanser Image: Biore
Review

The Bioré Warming Anti-Blackhead Cleanser is the secret weapon for gorgeous, clear skin. Its formula feels warm as you lather up – the heat opens up your pores, and the clay draws out deeply embedded impurities from your skin with much ease. However, using other topical acne medications right after using this face wash may only increase dryness. This bionutrient-rich formula must-try for normal, acne-prone, and oily skin. To get a better understanding of the product, you can check out this video on YouTube.

Pros

  • Helps combat blackheads
  • Leaves skin feeling super clean
  • Prevents flakiness
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Contains zeolite and salicylic acid

Cons

None

protip_icon Quick Tip
This cleanser is very potent and can make your skin feel dry. So, follow it up with a thick, nourishing moisturizer to maintain soft, healthy skin.

4. Best Sebum Control:Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam

4.5
Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam Image: Innisfree
Review

If your skin is on the drier side and still needs thorough cleansing (sans the excess dryness) – try Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam. This Korean face wash works incredibly well in getting rid of dirt and sebum while helping your skin retain its moisture with fresh Jeju Green Tea. Its formula has about 88% natural ingredients (plant extracts working as antioxidants), making it a sensible option for sensitive skin. Check out the review of this product for more information.

Pros

  • Leaves skin feeling clean and fresh
  • Gentle on the skin
  • Contains Green Tea
  • Pleasant fragrance
  • Does not strip your skin of moisture

Cons

None

protip_icon Pro Tip
Before using this foaming cleanser, wash your face with the Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Oil for 3-4 minutes. It will further aid in the removal of excess oil from the skin and the regulation of sebum production.

Why It’s Worth Buying: The product has received 1,905 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Price at the time of publication: $10

5. Best Gentle Formula:St. Botanica Awaken Hydrating Face Wash

3.7
St. Botanica Awaken Hydrating Face Wash Image: St. Botanica

This natural face wash is enriched with green tea and cucumber extracts. It is suitable for both men and women. It provides deep and thorough cleansing, removing all the dirt and impurities from your skin, thus reducing the probability of acne, whiteheads, and blackheads. It also contains gooseberry extracts that rejuvenate your skin and refine it to make it glow.

Pros

  • Mineral oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Silicone-free
  • SLS-free
  • No harmful chemicals
  • Recyclable packaging
  • Gentle

Cons

  • Some users may not like the fragrance.
Price at the time of publication: $24.9

6. Best For Exfoliation:Plum Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash

4.1
Review

Plum Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash is a gentle soap-free face wash. It contains glycolic acid and cellulose beads that cleanse and exfoliate the skin. This potent combination gets rid of dirt, excess oil, and dead skin cells to reveal new, healthy skin cells. The antioxidants protect the skin and help in fighting free radicals that cause sun damage and aging. This product is made with  PETA-certified vegan ingredients. It is cruelty-free and does not contain any harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, and SLS.

Pros
  • Non-drying formula
  • Prevents acne
  • Gently exfoliates the skin
  • Loaded with antioxidants
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan
  • Paraben-free radicals
  • Phthalate-free
  • SLS-free
  • Biodegradable cellulose beads
Cons
  • The cellulose beads may irritate sensitive skin
protip_icon Quick Tip
This face wash has glycolic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin and makes it a bit sensitive. Therefore, make sure to use sunscreen after you use this face wash.
Price at the time of publication: $11

7. Best For Pore Minimization:Garnier Skin Active The Gentle Sulfate-Free Cleanser

4.6
Garnier Skin Active The Gentle Sulfate-Free Cleanser Image: Garnier
Now 7% Off
Review

This extra-gentle cleanser from Garnier helps remove makeup, excess oil, and impurities from your skin while nourishing it and preventing dryness. Its formula is rich in glycerin and free of alcohol, sulfates, and parabens, making it ideal for all skin types. If you can’t stand fragrance in your cleanser, this one’s completely unscented.

Pros

  • Free of harsh chemicals
  • Fragrance-free
  • Gentle on the skin
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $17

8. Best For Uneven Skin Tone:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Facial Cleanser

4.6
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Facial Cleanser Image: La Roche-posay
Review

This gel face wash from La Roche-Posay cleanses dirt and oil while maintaining your skin’s pH balance. It contains zinc, which is a miracle ingredient to fight acne and blemishes. Its formula also heals and rejuvenates tired or dull skin. If you are someone with very oily and acne-prone skin, this face wash will do wonders for you.

Pros

  • Gentle on the skin
  • Wards off acne flare-ups
  • Contains zinc and citric acid
  • Promotes collagen
  • Treats uneven skin tone

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $20.99

9. Best Dermatologically Tested: Burt’s Bees Gentle Cream Cleanser

4.4
Burt's Bees Gentle Cream Cleanser Image: Burt's Bees
Now 12% Off

Review

The Burt’s Bees Gentle Cream Cleanser is a facial cleanser for sensitive skin that induces moisture to the skin and prevents any discomfort or redness. The facial cleanser is formulated with aloe vera and rice milk that adds a boost of moisture to the skin without clogging the pores. The nourishing cleanser visibly even out skin tone while gently removing dirt, oil, and makeup from your face without stripping off your skin’s natural oil. The formula also helps to maintain the skin’s natural barrier and works impressively to diminish the appearance of dark spots and discoloration. The cleanser provides a healthy complexion with daily use.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Gentle on skin
  • Dermatologically-tested
  • Fragrance-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Paraben-free
  • 98.9% natural
  • Safe for sensitive skin

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $8.76

10. Best For Moisturizing:CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

4.7
CeraVe Foaming Face Cleanser Image: Cerave
Review

If you struggle with acne and breakouts on the reg, this cleanser from CeraVe is one you can’t miss. The gentle low-foaming formula deeply cleanses pores without disrupting the skin barrier. Its formula contains essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help keep your skin plump and supple.

Pros

  • Leaves skin feeling clean and moisturized
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Helps treat acne
  • Fragrance-free

Cons

None

Why It’s Worth Buying: It has received 64,364 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
Price at the time of publication: $16.99

11. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

4.4
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser Image: Neutrogena
Review

For those of you with concerns like acne, eczema or rosacea – the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is a must-try. It is uniquely formulated with minimal and skin-friendly ingredients that remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup effectively. It is so gentle that it’s safe on even the most sensitive skin types.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Hydrates and moisturizes skin
  • Ideal for dehydrated, problematic skin
  • Free of parabens, fragrance, dye, and SLS

Cons

None

Why It’s Worth Buying: This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 16,488 great reviews on Amazon.
Price at the time of publication: $8.09
 

12. Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Nourishing Cleanser

4.5
Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Nourishing Cleanser Image: Aveeno
Review

The Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Nourishing Cleanser is a wonderful start to achieving younger-looking skin. Its anti-aging formula removes 99% of skin-aging impurities like oil, dirt, and makeup build-up. This contains Blackberry Complex, which helps to reduce the visible effects of elastin and collagen loss while nourishing your skin. If you are someone with aging or mature skin, this is a great cleanser for daily use twice a day.

Pros

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Leaves skin clean and fresh
  • Pump dispenser
  • Non-drying
  • Gentle on your skin

Cons

None

Why It’s Worth Buying: It has received over 7,111 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Price at the time of publication: $8.59

13. Simple Sensitive Skin Experts Foaming Cleanser

4.7
Review

If you’re on the hunt for a sulfate-free face wash that is also free of added fragrances and dyes – this foaming cleanser from Simple is the best choice. It is the perfect blend of natural, skin-loving ingredients. It keeps your skin clean without drying it out excessively. This formula is ideal for oily and combination skin types.

Pros

  • Natural formula
  • Reduces the appearance of large pores
  • Cleans and freshens skin
  • Pleasant smell
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $46.95

14. Etude House Wonder Pore Deep Foaming Cleanser

4.4
Etude House Wonder Pore Deep Foaming Cleanser Image: Etude House
Review

The Wonder Pore Deep Foaming cleanser by Etude House is one of the most popular K-beauty products. This is a miracle formula for those with oily or combination skin and large pores. It helps control excess oil and sebum while balancing the pH levels of your skin. If your facial skin lacks vibrancy and glow, its ingredients can help even out your complexion revealing a healthy and radiant glow. This is especially great for summers as its peppermint essence provides a fresh, cooling effect to your skin.

Pros

  • Refines skin tone
  • Removes dead skin cells
  • Cleans clogged pores
  • Balances pH levels
  • Value for money

Cons
None

Price at the time of publication: $9.3

15. Clean & Clear Deep Action Cream Cleanser

3.8
Clean & Clear Deep Action Cream Cleanser Image: Clean & Clear
Review

Looking for a one-step product to remove makeup? Try the Clean & Clear’s Deep Action Cream Cleanser that lifts dirt and impurities from deep inside your pores. This formula is perfect for dull and oily skin. It contains salicylic acid and menthol that leaves your skin feeling cool and refreshed. If you think your skin deserves extra cleansing on certain days, this face wash works well with the Clarisonic brush as well!

Pros

  • Improves oil control
  • Leaves skin feeling clean and fresh
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Lathers well
  • Refreshing effect
  • Travel-friendly

Cons

  • Not ideal for sensitive skin

16. Clearasil Stubborn Acne Control 5-In-1 Exfoliating Wash

4.5
Clearasil Stubborn Acne Control 5-In-1 Exfoliating Wash Image: Clearasil
Review

For acne-prone and problematic teenage skin, this medicated face wash from Clearasil is definitely worth trying. It helps unclog pores and reduces pimple size, excess oil, and shine. It also helps minimize the appearance of blemishes and treats redness. Here’s the interesting part – you can use this both as a cleanser and a mask when your skin needs extra attention.

Pros

  • Gets rid of active pimples
  • Lightens scars
  • Cleans effectively
  • Contains salicylic acid

Cons

  • Can be a tad bit drying if you have sensitive skin
Price at the time of publication: $7.17

17. The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam

4.4
Review

Enriched with rice water extracts, this cleansing foam from the Korean beauty brand, The Face Shop, helps even out your complexion like no other cleanser. Rice water is a natural solution for brightening your skin, and this formula does a wonderful job in the radiance department. If your skin tends to lack vibrancy and glow, do give this cream face wash a shot.

Pros

  • Creamy formula
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Gentle on skin
  • Brightens complexion

Cons

None

Why It’s Worth Buying: A whopping 11,860 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Price at the time of publication: $8.4

18. Bioré Baking Soda Pore Cleanser

4.4
Review

Here’s a quick solution for your clogged pores. The daily cleanser from Bioré contains natural baking soda that leaves your pores feeling 91% cleaner. It deep cleans and exfoliates dry, flaky skin, so you’re left with a beautiful, smooth surface. The pH-balanced formula also happens to be oil-free, and it won’t clog your pores or break you out. It’s the perfect solution for combination and oily skin.

Pros

  • Fast-acting
  • Offers deep cleansing
  • Pleasant smell
  • Non-drying

Cons

None

Why It’s Worth Buying: More than 5,110 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
Price at the time of publication: $5.64

19. Cosrx Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

4.4
Cosrx Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser Image: Cosrx
Review

Looking for a quick solution to achieve a brighter and more luminous complexion? This super-gentle cleanser from Cosrx makes for the best morning face wash for that. Its low pH formula won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. It contains purifying botanical ingredients accompanied by mild acids to gently cleanse your skin to its most supple and clear texture. It removes all the dirt and oil and maintains the skin’s pH balance. If you’re someone with sensitive and overly dry skin, this has got to be your holy grail cleanser.

Pros

  • Mild formula
  • Fragrance-free
  • Balances pH
  • Removes makeup and oil-based residues with ease

Cons

None

Why It’s Worth Buying: More than 10,813 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
Price at the time of publication: $7.0

20. Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing Daily Face Wash + Makeup Remover

4.7
Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing Daily Face Wash + Makeup Remover Image: Neutrogena
Review

Looking for a one-step product to remove your makeup? This effective and versatile cleanser from Neutrogena Naturals is a nutrient-rich formula that’s free of harsh chemicals, sulfates, and parabens. It works beautifully for all skin types, but if you have sensitive or mature skin, you will especially love the way its formula works. You’re left with soft, cleansed skin without having to give up on its natural moisture.

Pros

  • Non-drying
  • Gentle on skin
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Free of chemicals

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $13.16

21. Differin Gentle Cleanser

4.4
Differin Gentle Cleanser Image: Differin
Review

Differin Gentle Cleanser is formulated by dermatologists and is made for every skin type. Its medicated formula is tough enough to remove impurities and tender enough to not dry your skin of natural oils. You can consider this as the best face wash for acne and pimple. If you want to amp up its benefits, make sure you follow-up with the Differin Gel.

Pros

  • Free of soap
  • Gentle on skin
  • Fragrance-free
  • Medicated formula

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $15.79

22. Yes To Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Cleanser

4.4
Yes To Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Cleanser Image: Yes To
Review

This detoxifying charcoal cleanser offers the right balance of mild exfoliation and non-drying cleansing. Its advanced formula with charcoal helps draw out skin impurities from deep within. It also includes tomatoes that are rich in antioxidants to fight skin aging while salicylic acid prevents future breakouts. If you are someone with oily or acne-prone skin, we highly recommend you to try this, as it’s one of the best products to have in your skincare regime.

Pros

  • Improves skin texture
  • Gentle on skin
  • Pleasant smell
  • Non-greasy

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $9.99

These were the top 20 drugstore face cleansers. If you can’t seem to find the ideal cleanser for your skin, here are a bunch of tips that will come in handy for you.

Tips: How To Choose The Right Face Wash

    • Before you make your purchase, you have to identify your skin type. Is it oily, dry, combination, or normal? Do you have acne? Do you have mature skin? Is your skin sensitive? Once you understand what your skin type is, choosing a cleanser becomes a whole lot easier.
    • Avoid anything that is too harsh even if your skin isn’t all that sensitive. For instance, sulfates are nothing but added synthetic detergents to form lather when combined with water. It is always better to pick a cleanser that’s free of unnecessary chemicals.
    • Take your time to do some research – read online reviews or ask your friends for recommendations (the friends with a skin type that’s similar to yours.)
    • Buy smaller tubes first, so you can test out your cleanser. If it suits you, you can always go buy more.

Infographic: Key Ingredients In Drugstore Face Cleansers

If your dull skin worries you, it is time to invest in a drugstore face cleanser that removes dirt and reveals bright, smooth skin. Several brands offer OTC face cleansers at affordable prices, so picking a product suitable for your skin type can be tricky. Therefore, you should know about the key ingredients in a face cleanser to make an ideal choice. Check out the infographic below to learn about these ingredients and their benefits.

Key Ingredients In Drugstore Face Cleansers (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.

Download Infographic in PDF version Download Infographic
Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Drugstore face cleansers thoroughly remove dirt and impurities from your skin while improving your skin’s texture. These cleansers also help in removing makeup and minimizing the appearance of spots and blemishes. These potent yet affordable formulas can remove excess oil from your skin, without drying it out. If you want a gentle formula that reduces the chances of acne, then try Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, or you can use the dermatologist-tested Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, which gently cleans your pores and reduces pimples. For reducing stubborn blackheads, the Bioré Warming Anti-Blackhead Cleanser is the best choice. If you have sensitive skin, you should avoid drugstore face cleansers that are not suitable for acne-prone skin. Moreover, it is better to opt for face cleansers that successfully maintain the pH balance of your skin.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Esha Saxena, is a makeup and skin care enthusiast and has the experience in reviewing hundreds of beauty products. She understands how drugstore face cleansers and face washes work on the skin and helps users pick the best products, saving their time and money. The products listed above have been shortlisted based on the author’s expertise and users’ feedback on trusted online forums. These products are gentle on the skin and work effectively to remove all impurities and makeup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you use a drugstore face wash?

You can use a drugstore face wash not more than two times a day. This process will help you get rid of dirt, impurities, and flakes.

How long should you leave your face wash on?

You should leave your face wash for 50-60 seconds before rinsing it off with water. You can also gently massage your face while keeping the face wash on.

Should I use a face cleanser before or after bathing?

Use a face cleanser right after bath. While many people wash their faces while staying inside the shower, it is recommended to wash your face after taking a shower to remove impurities and other bath products that can clog your pores.

Is it better to use two face cleansers?

No. One face cleanser can work wonders if the formula is suitable for your skin.

What important ingredients should a drugstore face cleanser have?

A drugstore face cleanser must contain retinol, salicylic acid, and gentle exfoliators. Also, It must offer hydration and promote skin cell turnover.

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