21 Best Face Washes & Cleansers Of 2023 For All Skin Types
Wash away the dirt and grime of the day without disturbing your skin's natural balance.
Shiboli Chakraborti Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with three years of experience. As an editor, she ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Your face is like a battleground, indeed, exposed to makeup, impurities, and pollutants. So you must try the best face wash available in the market. A product that can combat clogged pores, discoloration, breakouts and can nourish, moisturize, and cleanse your skin is what needs to be your best friend. So go ahead and check out our list of the 21 best-selling face washes that are perfect for all skin types.
In This Article
21 Best Recommended Daily Facial Cleansers Of 2023
Best For Dry Skin:CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Image: Cerave The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a non-foaming formula for normal to dry skin types. Its lotion-like consistency gently removes oil, dirt, and makeup without dehydrating the skin.
The MVE technology releases moisturizing ingredients continuously into the skin, providing 24-hour hydration and nourishment. This face wash contains ceramides that restore the skin’s natural barrier and improve skin texture. Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds moisture to the skin surface. This face wash cleanses the skin without stripping its natural oils and nutrients. This video takes you through this product’s details.
Skin Type: Dry
Pros- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Non-drying
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
- Dermatologically tested
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
Cons
- May cause a burning sensation.
Best For Sensitive Skin:Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
The Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is a gentle face wash that efficiently removes makeup, dirt, and excess oil from the skin surface. It preserves the natural moisture barrier of the skin and deeply cleanses clogged pores without stripping the skin of essential oils. This face wash is suitable for oily, normal, and sensitive skin types. It moisturizes the skin without leaving a tight or dry feeling. For a more detailed review of this product, here’s a video.
Skin Type: Oily and Sensitive
Pros- Mild Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Hypoallergenic
- Aluminum-free
- Dermatologist recommended
Cons
- Contains SLS
Best For Skin Brightening:Elizabeth Mott Sure Thing! Vitamin C Cleanser
The Elizabeth Mott Sure Thing! Vitamin C Cleanser deeply cleanses the skin while also providing nourishment and hydration. This cleanser helps remove makeup and impurities while also leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed. It brightens the skin, reduces the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles, and protects the skin from environmental damage. The gentle formula helps improve the overall appearance and health of the skin. This cleanser can be a great option for those looking to add a powerful antioxidant to their skincare routine and achieve a brighter, more even-toned complexion.
Skin Type: All Skin Types
Pros- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Non-irritating
- Non-drying
- Gentle on skin
- Lathers well
- Ideal for daily use
- Refreshing
Cons
None
Best For Oily Skin:Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser
The Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser creates a white foam that gently purifies and refreshes your skin. The unique Japanese skin purifying technology provides superior cleansing without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Its cleansing molecules target oil, dirt, and impurities without irritating the skin. Charcoal has magnetic powers that pull out oil and other impurities from deep within the skin’s layers, offering deep cleansing and unclogging pores. It also prevents bacteria, blackheads, pimples, blemishes, and other skin problems.
Skin Type: Oily
Pros- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May dry out the skin.
Best Cruelty-Free:WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash
This wash from WOW is infused with the goodness of organic apple cider vinegar that balances sebum and controls acne. It also contains aloe vera that offers natural hydration and restores the skin’s pH balance, while pro-vitamin B5 empowers the skin’s lipid structure. This face wash clears dirt, impurities, oil, makeup, pollutants, and dead cells from the skin’s surface. The soft silicone bristle brush gently exfoliates the skin and controls blackheads, pimples, acne, and other facial breakouts.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, and Normal
Pros- Built-in brush
- Contains 100% natural actives
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- Mineral-oil-free
- Color-free
Cons
- May dry out the skin.
Pro TipBest Gentle:BURT'S BEES Facial Cleanser
If you have sensitive skin, the BURT’S BEES Facial Cleanser is just right for you. This face wash is formulated with 99% natural ingredients that give you the smoothest and healthy-looking skin. The formula is gentle on delicate skin while removing dirt, oil, impurities, and makeup. It is infused with softening cotton extract and aloe vera, which preserve moisture and protect the skin against pollutants and irritants.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Pros- 99% natural
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
- Dermatologist-tested
- Soap-free
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Petrolatum-free
- SLS-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May cause breakouts.
Best Non-Comedogenic Formula:VANICREAM Gentle Facial Cleanser
This facial cleanser from VANICREAM has a gentle, non-comedogenic formula that cleanses your face of dirt, makeup, oil, and impurities without drying it. This face wash is suitable for sensitive, acne-prone, and dry skin caused by psoriasis, eczema, and ichthyosis. It is formulated without any harsh chemicals and leaves the skin soft, clean, and rejuvenated.
Skin Type: Acne-prone and Sensitive
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Soap-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Sulfate-free
- Lanolin-free
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Cocamidopropyl betaine-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Drying
Best Hypoallergenic Formula:NEUTROGENA Fresh Foaming Cleanser
Image: Neutrogena The NEUTROGENA Fresh Foaming Cleanser deep cleanses the face and gets rid of dirt, excess oil, waterproof makeup, and other impurities. It helps prevent the clogging of pores and bacterial growth. The hypoallergenic formula leaves no residue on the skin and imparts a squeaky clean after-feel. It contains glycerin, which moisturizes and softens the skin. This face wash is gentle around the delicate eye areas and causes no stinging or irritation.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Safe for sensitive eyes
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Soap-free
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Does not foam.
Best Fragrance-Free:LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser
The Toleriane Purifying Cleanser has a foam gel texture that removes makeup, dirt, and excess oils. It helps retain the skin’s natural moisture and maintains its pH and natural protective barrier. This face wash is formulated with ceramide-3, which is present naturally in the skin. The prebiotic thermal water and niacinamide have antioxidant properties that hydrate and soothe the skin. Glycerin naturally draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple.
Skin Type: Normal and Oily
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Allergy-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Soap-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Drying
Pro TipBest Natural Ingredients:THE FACE SHOP Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam
This face wash from THE FACE SHOP is infused with natural rice water that brightens and smoothens the skin. The milky-white rice water was a traditional beauty treatment among the royal women in Korean dynastic kingdoms. It is enriched with vitamins A, B, and E and minerals that cleanse and nourish the skin without irritating it. This face wash also contains the antioxidant-rich moringa oil that moisturizes the skin and soapwort that is a gentle cleanser. It soothes and softens the skin, evens out the skin tone, and gives it a glass-like appearance.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, and Normal
Pros- Contains natural ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Tar-free
- Talc-free
- Paraffin-free
- Polyacrylamide-free
Cons
- Contains SLS
- Leaves a white chalky film
Himalaya Clean Complexion Brightening Face Wash
The Brightening Face Wash from Himalaya is a soap-free daily cleanser. It is formulated with licorice and white dammer that awaken dull skin and enhance the complexion. Saffron evens and brightens the skin tone. Cucumber soothes irritation and redness, while pomegranate nourishes the skin. This face wash reduces dark spots and imparts a healthy glow to the skin.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, and Normal
Pros- Dermatologically tested
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- SLES-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
DIFFERIN Daily Deep Cleanser
The DIFFERIN Daily Deep Cleanser offers deep cleansing with minimum redness and irritation. It delivers a dual-action treatment with a micronized formula that seeps into the pores and absorbs the excess oil while simultaneously moisturizing the skin without clogging the pores. This face wash contains 5% benzoyl peroxide to treat acne and cleanses sensitive skin without stripping its natural oils.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Pros- Dermatologically tested
- Paraben-free
- Reduces acne
Cons
- Drying
proactiv brings you a comprehensive therapy for sensitive and acne-prone skin. This cleanser is infused with micronized benzoyl peroxide that penetrates deep into the pores and destroys acne-causing bacteria to prevent fresh breakouts. It also contains hyaluronic acid that moisturizes and maintains the skin’s hydration level and chamomile that soothes and calms the skin. The tiny exfoliating beads lift away dead skin cells and impurities to prevent pore clogging.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, and Dry
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Clears acne
- Improves skin tone and texture
Cons
- Expensive
OLAY REGENERIST Detoxifying Pore Scrub Cleanser
This scrub from OLAY provides deep cleansing and gentle exfoliation to the skin. The detoxifying cleanser infused with amino peptides and exfoliators increase cell turnover and reduce pore appearance.
The lathering gel formula polishes away dead and dull skin, revealing smooth and bright skin. It provides a refreshed base for further skin care products. The hydrated silica and minute skin polishers do not scratch the skin layers, minimizing over-scrubbing and damage due to exfoliation. Glycerin fortifies the skin’s moisture barrier for a youthful appearance.
Skin Type: Mature
Pros- Anti-aging
- Gentle
- Value for money
Cons
- Strong fragrance
The PACIFICA Sea Foam Face Wash is an anti-aging formula powered by advanced marine phytonutrients. This gentle cleanser removes makeup, impurities, dirt, and excess oil and makes your skin feel refreshed. It is infused with skin-loving ingredients like coconut oil, coconut water, white tea, and sea algae, which offer deep cleansing and balance the skin’s pH and oil content. The soft foaming formula smells of fresh coconut and suits all skin types.
Skin Type: All
Pros
- Smells good
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- SLS-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- Can be drying.
TruSkin Daily Facial Cleanser
The TruSkin Daily Facial Cleanser has vitamin C to repair damaged skin and vitamin E to protect the skin from free radical damage. Ingredients like olive oil, rosehip oil, and aloe vera provide nourishment and have anti-aging properties, while tea tree oil prevents breakouts.
These skin-friendly ingredients combat fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and sun spots, making your skin brighter and fresher. This face wash refines skin tone and texture by promoting hydration, collagen production, and radiance. It clears the skin of all dirt and debris without stripping it of its natural oils.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, and Normal
Pros- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- PEG-free
Cons
- May dry out the skin.
Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Nourishing Cleanser
This daily facial cleanser from Aveeno is a mild formula that helps remove makeup, oil, and dirt and unclogs pores. It is rich in antioxidants that wash away 99% of skin impurities that cause aging signs. This face wash secures the skin’s moisture barrier and keeps the face hydrated and protected. The nourishing formula is rich in blackberry extracts that reduce the visible signs of collagen and elastin loss.
Skin Type: Mature
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Anti-aging
- Gentle
- Dermatologically tested
- Smells good
Cons
- Does not lather much.
eltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
The eltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser contains a blend of amino acids and enzymes that washes off makeup, pollutants, and dirt from the pores, leaving the skin feeling clean, refreshed, and toned. Bromelain reduces inflammation and gets rid of dead skin cells to make the skin smooth. The self-foaming technology lifts dirt, eliminates free radicals, and prevents oxidation. The micro-massaging bubbles infuse oxygen into the skin with every wash.
Skin Type: Oily and Sensitive
Pros- Gentle
- Oil-free
- pH-balanced
- Sensitivity-free
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- May cause irritation.
Paula's Choice Resist Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser
The Paula’s Choice Resist Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser is a gentle exfoliating cleanser that removes dirt, impurities, and makeup. The nourishing formula contains aloe vera and sunflower seed oil to moisturize the skin without leaving it tight or dry. The hyaluronic acid in the formula hydrates and clears the skin of age lines, wrinkles, and redness, thus keeping it smooth and clear. The foaming cleanser creates a light lather, and reduces pore size and cleanses the skin for a refreshed feeling. The skin-restoring ceramides protect the natural skin barrier and strengthen the skin surface.
Skin Type: All skin types
Pros- pH balanced
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
None
GARNIER SKINACTIVE Micellar Foaming Cleanser
This is an all-in-one gel foaming formula that can be used daily. It contains micelles that work like magnets to capture dirt, makeup, oils, and other impurities from the pores without excessive scrubbing. The fragrance-free cleanser does not dry the skin out and is suitable for all skin types. It refreshes your skin without leaving any residue.
Skin Type: All
Pros- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologically tested
- Oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
CHRISTINA MOSS NATURALS FACIAL WASH
This face wash from CHRISTINA MOSS NATURALS is made of natural ingredients that clean and soothe the skin. The non-oily, non-drying formula is infused with rosemary extract that protects the skin cells from free radical damage and offers a minty fresh fragrance.
It also contains olive fruit oil, which treats damage caused by UV rays. Its antioxidant properties also deep cleanse the pores and reduce acne. Aloe vera soothes the skin with its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, while coconut oil increases circulation and moisturizes the skin.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, and Normal
Pros- Hypoallergenic
- SLS-free
- SLES-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- BPA-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Expensive
The first step of every skincare regimen is washing your face! Finding that perfect face wash to deeply cleanse your skin and allow you to work with a clean canvas is important. However, not all cleansers are made equal, and you must find your best match based on your skin type. Here are a few things to keep in mind before making a purchase.
What You Need To Know Before Buying A Face Wash/ Cleanser
- Skin Type
Choose a cleanser that is right for your skin type. If you don’t, it could worsen your skin condition or damage the skin barrier. For instance, if you have dry skin, go for a deeply hydrating, oil-based, or creamy, pH-balanced face wash. On the other hand, those with oily skin should opt for a foaming cleanser to eliminate excess sebum and dirt from the skin. Finally, for sensitive skin, opt for a lightweight, gel-based cleanser.
- Ingredients
Choose cleansers that don’t have parabens, formaldehyde, Cocamidopropyl betaine, sulfates, SLS, mineral oils, petrolatum, or phthalate, all bad chemicals for your skin. Avoid anything with silicone, lanolin, or aluminum in it. It’s better to go as natural as you can. Additionally, don’t use cleansers with alcohol in them. They dry out your skin and damage your skin’s barrier. Instead, opt for pH-balanced products that help maintain your skin’s health. Always opt for dermatologist-tested products over regular ones.
- Usage
If you wear makeup and use loads of sunscreen daily, make sure to use an oil-based cleanser to take everything off before bed. If you have acne, look for an exfoliating face wash. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a gentle cleanser.
- Fragrance
Even if you don’t have skin problems, it’s always smart to choose fragrance-free products. Instead, opt for products that have a natural fragrance or don’t have any scent at all.
Cleansing your face is a part of your daily skincare routine. The best face washes and cleansers will help you get rid of dirt, oil, and impurities. From cleansing balms and gels to gentle exfoliators, there is something on the list to address every skin type and concern. The reviewed options mentioned above in the list have gentle and non-comedogenic formulas devoid of all synthetic preservatives. Before choosing the best facial cleanser, go through the ingredients list thoroughly and make sure it suits your skin type.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach. She has thoroughly researched and read many online customer reviews on trusted online platforms to compile the list of best face washes. She checked the brand websites to go through the ingredients and other information. The products included in the list cleanse your skin without drying and causing any damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to use face wash daily?
Yes. A face wash is meant to cleanse your skin and get rid of dirt and debris. It should be used twice daily.
Is face wash good for skin?
Face wash is one of the most important steps in your skin care routine. It does the job of washing away dirt, oil, and grime from your face that accumulates on a daily basis. If you don’t use a face wash, it can lead to clogged pores, pimples, and inflammation on the skin.
Is it OK to wash your face with just water?
Yes. If you have very dry skin, you can wash your face with just water in the morning. However, you should use a face wash at night to get rid of makeup, excess oil, and dirt from your face.
What to apply after washing your face?
You can apply a toner after washing your face to balance the skin’s pH and prep your skin for better product absorption.
How many times do I use face wash in a day?
You can wash your face with a face wash twice a day.
Can I wash my face with soap?
You may wash your face with soap but it may be too drying and harsh on the skin. A face wash, on the other hand, is regarded as gentler than soap. Face washes are designed specifically for your face while keeping your skin’s pH in mind.
How long should I wash my face?
You can wash your face anywhere around 45 seconds to a minute.
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