22 Best Makeup Artists-Approved Drugstore Face Cleansers To Buy In 2024

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

Reviewed by Mary Ajaka, Makeup Artist
Written by Esha Saxena, MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies)
Edited by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Fact-checked by Asmita De, MA (English)  • 
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 gentle 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 Face Cleansers That Are Great For Your Skin – 2024

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 healthy radiance face wash that removes excess oil and dirt without drying or irritating your skin. It is also non-comedogenic and expert-recommended, 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 2024 – 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 rosacea and acne concerns.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 1,865 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

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, this expertly crafted 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 reviewer’s experience in 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 We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 989 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.

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

4.1
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 is a must-try for normal, acne-prone, and oily skin types. To get a better understanding of the product, you can check out the tester’s experience in 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 keep the skin soft and healthy.

Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
Best For Acne-Prone Skin
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
Best Alcohol-Free
Bioré Warming Anti-Blackhead Cleanser
Best Non-Comedogenic
Skin Type Oily,sensitive acne-prone Acne Prone,Sensitive
Dimensions 7.5 x 4.3 x 4.1 inches 6.6 x 5 x 2.6 inches 1.52 x 3 x 5.3 inches
Weight 2.4 Pounds 9 Ounces 5.28 Ounces
Rating
Reviews1,865989450
Price$22.88$19.47-

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 effective cleansing (sans the excess dryness) – try Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam. This double-cleansing 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 extract. 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 extract
  • 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 We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 304 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

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

3.5
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. This product has received multiple positive reviews from users all over the world.

Pros

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

Cons

  • Some users may not like the fragrance.

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 not tested on animals 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 lead to irritated 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.

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
Review

This extra-gentle cleanser from Garnier helps remove makeup, excess oil, and impurities from your skin while nourishing it and preventing dryness. Its dermatologist-tested 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

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 primary ingredient to fight acne and blemishes. Its expert-recommended formula also heals and rejuvenates tired or dull skin. If you are someone with very oily and acne-prone skin, this healthy radiance face wash will do wonders for you. Reviewers love how gentle this face wash feels on their skin and how effectively it does the job.

Pros

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

Cons

  • None

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

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 natural skin barrier. Its formula contains essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help keep your skin plump and supple.

Pros

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

Cons

  • None

10. Best For Moisturizing:CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

4.6
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 We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 4,149 rave reviews on Amazon.

11. Best Skin Friendly Formula:Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

4.3
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser Image: Neutrogena
Now 28% Off
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 We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received 1,312 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.

 

12. Best For Anti-Aging:Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Nourishing Cleanser

4.4
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 We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 704 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

13.Best Skin-Loving Ingredients: 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 effective formula is ideal for oily and combination skin types and has multiple positive reviews on Amazon.

Pros

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

Cons

  • None

14.Best For Combination Skin: Etude House Wonder Pore Deep Foaming Cleanser

4.3
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 gentle 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

15.Best For Pore Cleansing: Clean & Clear Deep Action Cream Cleanser

3.2
Clean & Clear Deep Action Cream Cleanser Image: Clean & Clear
Review

Looking for a one-step product to remove makeup apart from micellar water? Try the Clean & Clear’s Deep Action Cream Cleanser that lifts dirt and impurities from deep inside your pores. The 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 effective 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.Best For Blemishes: 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 acne face wash 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

17. Best Skin Brightening Formula:The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam

4.4
Review

Enriched with rice water extracts, this effective 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 effective 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 We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 2,167 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.

18.Best For Clogged Pores: 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 types. This brand does not test on animals, which makes this a good fur-friendly option for all.

Pros

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

Cons

  • None

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 535 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

19.Best For Skin Ph: Cosrx Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

4.4
Cosrx Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser Image: Cosrx
Now 21% Off
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 healthy radiance 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. The unique formula is praised by reviewers for how gentle it feels on sensitive skin types.

Pros

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

Cons

  • None

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 2,466 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

20.Best Nutrient-Rich Formula: 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 other than micellar water? 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

21. Best For All Skin: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 cleanser 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

22.Best Antioxidant-Rich: Yes To Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Cleanser

4.5
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 daily skincare routine.

Pros

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

Cons

  • None
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

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 as well as your current skin condition. 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.
  • Make sure to seek consultation from a skincare specialist before investing in a product during your pregnancy tenure.

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

Get the high-quality PDF version of this 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, affordable options can remove excess oil from your skin, without drying it out. If you want a gentle formula that reduces the chances of acne-causing bacterium to worsen the skin, 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.

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.

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.

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