28 Best Facial Cleansers Of 2023 For Supple And Glowing Skin
Cleanse away the irritants from your skin with these dermatologist-favorite formulas.
Georgia SmithCosmetologist
Expertise: Beauty Therapy
Experience: 13 years
Georgia Smith is a cosmetologist-turned-cosmetic chemist and has been in the industry for over 13 years as a beauty therapist. She is the founder of Skin Sister and owns a hugely successful, skin focused beauty salon in Sydney, Australia. G... more
Shiboli Chakraborti Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 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 four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
Krati DarakCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years o... more
Medha DebCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Beauty, Health, & Wellness
Experience: 5 years
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
The best facial cleanser helps you in so many ways. They can remove makeup, dirt, fight dangerous microbes, and exfoliate dead cells, leaving you with perfectly clear skin. If you have been looking for one that suits your skin type, your search stops here. To avoid all that confusion, we have compiled a list of top-notch skin cleansing products for every skin type that will make you look your best self! Scroll down to know more!
In This Article
Best Facial Cleansers For Different Skin Types
1. Best Oil-Free: EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
Image: Eltamd The Elta MD Foaming Facial Cleanser is a dermatologist-recommended skin care product that removes damaging pollutants from your skin. The formula is pH balanced, sensitivity-free, and oil-free. It is infused with micro-massaging bubbles that replenish oxygen content on the skin surface. The enzymes and amino acids in the formula loosen up oil, makeup, and impurities from the skin and pores to purify the skin, leaving it balanced. Here’s the facial cleanser review video to help you get a better understanding of the product.
Skin Type: All
Key Ingredients: Apple amino acids and Bromelain
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Sensitivity-free
- pH balanced
- Value for money
- Gentle
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Expensive
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 1,404 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
2. Best Fragrance-Free:CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Image: Cerave The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is infused with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid. The gentle formula does not strip off the skin’s natural moisture while removing excess oil, sebum, dirt, and makeup. It leaves your skin conditioned and hydrated without a greasy or sticky feeling. Ceramides maintain and restore your skin’s natural barrier, while hyaluronic acid provides hydration and locks in moisture for up to 24 hours. Need more information? Check out this reviewer’s experience using this product in this video to help you make an informed decision.
Georgia Smit, a cosmetologist, says, ”This formula is great for sensitive skin types. It is non-comedogenic which means it doesn’t contain any potential pore clogging ingredients.”
Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive, Oily, and Acne-prone
Key Ingredients: Ceramides and Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Dermatologically-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Non-irritating
- Mild
- Anti-acne
- Soap-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May cause breakouts
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 6,165 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
3. Best For All Skin Types:InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser
Image: Instanatural This refreshing Vitamin C Cleanser from InstaNatural is formulated with a unique combination of plant extracts and essential oils to prevent blackheads and breakouts. The oil-free natural facial cleanser reduces the appearance of pores and minimizes signs of premature aging. It is infused with vitamin C to tone, brighten, and tighten the skin, while supporting collagen production. Nutrient-rich coconut water in the formula balances and hydrates the skin, while aloe vera nourishes and refreshes it. The sugarcane extract in the cleanser exfoliate, improve skin texture, and maintain cell turnover. If you need further convincing, check out this YouTuber’s review.
Skin Type: All
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Coconut water, Green tea extract, Aloe vera, and Sugar cane extract
Pros
- Gentle
- Not-greasy
- Not tested on animals
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Dye-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Glycol-free
- Polyethylene-free
Cons
- Drying
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 5,167 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser Best Oil-Free | CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser Best Fragrance-Free | InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser Best For All Skin Types | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | All, Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal |
| Dimensions | 2.31 x 2.31 x 4 inches | 1.95 x 3.38 x 1.63 inches | 6.3 x 2.1 x 6.3 inches |
| Weight | 7 Ounces | 1.04 Pounds | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,404 | 6,165 | 5,167 |
| Price | $32 | $15.48 | $24.95 |
4. Best For Dull Skin:Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Image: Murad The Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser sloughs away dead skin, excess sebum. and impurities. This AHA/BHA powered cleanser contains a triple-action formula containing lactic, glycolic, and salicylic acids to give you a flawless and healthy-looking complexion. The biodegradable jojoba beads in the cleanser gently exfoliate dry and dull skin, while the AHA acids smoothen your skin and induce new cell turnover.
Skin Type: Oily
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, and Jojoba beads
Pros
- Clinically proven results
- Petroleum-free
- Oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalates-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- No animal testing
Cons
- Expensive
Pro Tip5. Best For Daily Use:Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser
Image: Kate Somerville The Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser has a gentle yet potent formula suitable for daily use. It contains a unique composition of fruit enzymes and AHAs, which gently cleanses away impurities, excess oil, and makeup with ease to reveal smooth and glowing skin. The lactic and glycolic acids unclog the pores, refine your skin, and improve complexion. This formula does not strip away skin’s natural moisture and offers a spa-like experience.
Skin Type: Dry
Key Ingredients: Papaya enzyme, Pineapple enzyme, Pumpkin enzyme, Glycolic acid, and Lactic acid
Pros
- Gentle
- Sulfate-free
- Non-irritating
- Value for money
Cons
None
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 1,135 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
6. Best For Dark Spots:Youth To The People Kale + Green Tea Spinach Vitamins Superfood Cleanser
Image: Youth To The People This active cleanser from Youth To The People Kale is powered with antioxidant-rich plant extracts. This gentle cleanser has a rich gel like texture, which lathers well and cleanses your skin without stripping. It contains cold-pressed ingredients like kale, spinach, green tea, alfalfa, vitamins C, E, and K. Kale rejuvenate and brightens the skin while reducing dark spots. Spinach heals and makes the skin radiant. Green tea and alfalfa boost collagen production and fight free radical damage. The formula is pH balanced and acts as a makeup remover.
Skin Type: All
Key Ingredients: Kale, Green tea, Spinach, Alfalfa, Vitamins C, E, and K.
Pros
- Mild
- Oil-free
- Dimethicone-free
- Vegan
- No animal testing
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalates-free
- Mineral-free
Cons
- May cause breakouts
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 795 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
7. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Eyeeco Tea Tree Eyelid & Facial Cleanser
Image: Eyeeco The Eyeeco Tea Tree Eyelid & Facial Cleanser gently removes away dirt and makeup without irritating your eyes or drying the skin. The formula contains 1% tea tree oil to reduce blemishes and acne. The chamomile extract in the formula soothes acne scars and irritations, while shea butter hydrates and locks in moisture. This cleanser is ideal for rosacea and acne-prone skin. The acne-fighting cleanser also helps to control blepharitis mites and ease itchy eyes or irritated skin.
Skin Type: Acne-prone and Sensitive
Key Ingredients: Tea tree, Shea butter, Chamomile, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Non-drying
- Gentle
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Value for money
Cons
- Not very foamy
8. Best Gentle Formula:Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser
Image: Philosophy The Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser by Philosophy is made with gentle and eco-friendly ingredients. It removes makeup residues, deeply cleanses your pores, and tones your skin. The meadowfoam seed oil in the formula melts away excess oil and debris on your skin. Its antioxidant properties offer skin conditioning benefits to reveal super hydrated and healthy-looking skin.
Skin Type: Combination and Oily
Key Ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil
Pros
- Gentle
- Clinically proven
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- SLS-free
- SLES-free
Cons
None
9. Best pH-Balanced Formula:Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser
Image: Drunk Elephant The pH-balanced Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser from Drunk Elephant is infused with mild cleansing ingredients that gently cleanse your skin without stripping its natural barrier. Its active ingredients like cantaloupe extract and glycerin restore lost moisture while repairing and maintaining your skin, leaving it soft and glowing. The cleanser does not contain any harsh ingredients that can irritate your skin. The jelly-like formula sloughs away dirt, excess oil, and makeup.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Key Ingredients: Cantaloupe extract and Glycerin
Pros
- pH balanced
- Non-irritating
- Non-sensitizing
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Alcohol-free
- Silicone-free
- Dyes-free
- SLS-free
Cons
- Drying
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 2,033 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
10. Best Non-drying:Skin Medica Facial Cleanser
The Skin Medica Facial Cleanser is a great addition to your skincare cleansing routine. The soap-free formula hydrates and refreshes your skin while cleansing dirt, excess oil, makeup, and pollutants. The cleanser contains pro-vitamin B5, known as panthenol, which maintains skin moisture, and camellia oleifera leaf extract to minimize sun damage, even out the skin tone, and reduce visible fine lines. The calming and soothing properties of this makeup remover cleanser make it ideal for sensitive and oily skin.
Skin Type: All
Key Ingredients: Camellia oleifera leaf extract, Glycerin, and Pro-vitamins B5
Pros
- Soothing
- Gentle
- Non-drying
- Soap-free
Cons
- Contains SLS
11. Murad Environmental Shield Essential-C Cleanser
Image: Murad Essential C Cleanser The Environmental Shield Essential-C Cleanser by Murad purifies and moisturizes your skin. It is powered by patented Resorcinol Technology that reverses environmental skin damage. The gel-based cleanser has vitamins A and C, which effortlessly remove impurities, leaving a refreshing citrusy scent. Vitamin E in the formula nourishes and protects your skin from free radical damage. The formula also contains allantoin and panthenol to reduce dryness and hydrate your skin.
Skin Type: Dry
Key Ingredients: Vitamins A, C, and E, Allantoin, and Panthenol
Pros
- Clinically proven
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- Gluten-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Petroleum-free
- Citrus fragrance
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Watery consistency
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,041 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
12. Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Image: Image Skin Care The Vital C Hydrating Facial Cleanser by Image Skincare melts away environmental impurities and makeup from your skin without stripping away its moisture. It deeply cleanses your skin while adding a boost of essential vitamins and hydration. The cleanser contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, that brightens and revitalizes your skin, while vitamin A reverses sun damage and induces a healthy glow. The creamy, hydrating formula soothes redness, leaving soft and refreshed skin.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Orange peel oil, and Retinyl palmitate
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Creamy formula
- Gentle
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May cause breakouts
13. Obagi Nu Derm Gentle Cleanser
Image: Obagi The Obagi Nu Derm Gentle Cleanser washes away daily impurities, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin even-toned, clean, and fresh-looking. The formula contains active ingredients like oat amino acid, derived from oat protein to maintain healthy and glowing skin. The daily cleanser is formulated to revive and soothe the appearance of aging skin.
Skin Type: Dry to Normal
Key Ingredient: Oat amino acid
Pros
- Gentle
- Smells good
- Non-drying
Cons
- Contains SLS
14. PCA Skin Facial Wash
Image: Pcaskin The PCA Skin Facial Wash gently exfoliates your skin to remove makeup, dead skin cells, excess oil, and daily impurities to prevent breakouts. It contains active ingredients like lactic acid and gluconolactone to protect against environmental damage and moisturize the skin deeply. The exfoliating facial cleanser also has natural ingredients like aloe vera extract that calms irritation and soothes inflammation. This professional-quality purifying cleanser offers a refreshed start and a clarified end to your day.
Skin Type: Oily and Combination
Key Ingredients: Lactic Acid, Gluconolactone, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dye-free
Cons
None
15. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
Image: Kiehls The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser effectively dissolves dirt, excess oil, and debris, while maintaining your skin’s natural pH. This emollient-rich formula contains potent ingredients like avocado oil, vitamin E, apricot oil, and squalane. It is formulated with sugar-derived glycoside foaming agent to thoroughly cleanse your skin without over-drying it. This gentle and safe foaming face cleanser does not strip away your skin’s moisture.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Avocado oil, Squalane, and Apricot kernel oil
Pros
- pH balanced
- Gentle
- Non-drying
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
None
16. Image Skincare Ormedic Balancing Facial Cleanser
Image: Image Skincare The Ormedic Balancing Facial Cleanser by Image Skincare gently exfoliates and washes away impurities, leaving your skin clean and soft. The foaming gel contains natural plant extracts like organic grape water and calendula, rich in antioxidants and enzymes, to boost hydration and nourish your skin. Its certified organic ingredients like lotus flower, turmeric, green tea, clover blossom, burdock root, and calendula restore softness and maintain skin’s optimal balance. The cleanser also contains hyaluronic acid that restores your skin’s natural moisture content.
Skin Type: Dry and Damaged
Key Ingredients: Organic grape water, Aloe vera, and 7-extract blend
Pros
- Soothing
- pH balanced
- Mild
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Dye-free
- No animal testing
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
17. EltaMD Deep Pore Facial Cleanser
Image: Eltamd Deep Pore Facial Cleanser The Deep Pore Facial Cleanser by Elta MD is infused with mild cleansing ingredients that gently cleanse your skin without stripping it. The dermatologist recommended cleanser binds moisture to the keratin in skin cells. It cleanses deeply without over-drying and leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and clean. The formula sloughs away dirt, excess oil, and heavy makeup.
Skin Type: All
Key Ingredients: Orange oil
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Gentle
- pH balanced
- Oil-free
- Soap-free
- Paraben-free
- Sensitivity-free
- Non-irritating
Cons
- Contains SLS
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 1,253 reviews claiming its efficacy.
18. Neostrata Restore Facial Cleanser
The Neostrata Restore Facial Cleanser is a super-effective dermatologist-recommended, non-foaming gel cleanser designed for sensitive skin. The non-drying formula contains PHA, which retains moisture and prevents the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It gently removes impurities and makeup, making your skin look younger and smoother. This cleanser is ideal for individuals with rosacea and those who have undergone chemical peeling.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Key Ingredients: Gluconolactone
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-irritating
- Gentle
- Non-drying
- Soap-free
Cons
- Runny texture
19. Image Skincare Ageless Total Facial Cleanser
Image: Image Skincare The Ageless Total Facial Cleanser by Image Skincare reverses skin damage and signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and pigmentation. It gently cleanses away makeup and dead skin buildup and exfoliates without irritating the skin. It contains cooling menthol and green tea, which boost refreshment and invigorate your skin. Glycolic acid in this anti-aging face cleanser smoothens the skin, unclogs pores, and promotes your skin’s overall health.
Skin Type: Dry
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, Menthol, and Green tea extract
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Rich lather
- pH balancing
- No animal testing
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 1,893 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
20. Pure Biology Facial Cleanser
Image: Pure Biology The Pure Biology Facial Cleanser is formulated with a lush blend of botanical extracts and natural essential oils to cleanse your skin without stripping its vital moisture. The hydrating cleanser formula cleanses your pores, clarifies your skin tone, and adds a boost of nourishment. The rosemary extract in the formula reduces inflammation and prevents breakouts, while vitamin C enhances your skin’s complexion and improves elasticity. It reduces age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles by retaining the skin’s moisture levels.
Skin Type: Combination, Matured, Dry, and Oily
Key Ingredients: Rosemary, Clary sage, Lemongrass, and Lemon peel oils
Pros
- Gentle
- Anti-acne
- Non-GMO
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Greasy texture
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 1,652 rave reviews on Amazon.
21. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
Image: Laroche Posay The Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser by La Roche-Posay is infused with 2% salicylic acid and lipo hydroxy acid. The salicylic acid helps clear acne and breakouts, eliminate blackheads, and whiteheads, revealing clearer-looking skin. The lipo hydroxy acid concentrates on the oily areas to gently exfoliate and remove dirt or impurities. The dermatologist-tested cleanser does not contain any harmful chemicals that irritate or aggravate your acne. It soothes your acne and makes you feel refreshed after every wash.
Skin Type: Acne-prone, Oily, Sensitive, and Combination
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid and Lipo hydroxy acid
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Allergy-tested
- Gentle
- Soothing
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Drying
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 11,588 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
22. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Image: Cerave The Foaming Facial Cleanser by CeraVe removes excess oil, sebum, dirt, and makeup without harming the natural skin barrier. The gel-based texture of the cleanser leaves your skin conditioned without any greasy or sticky feeling. It contains ceramides to maintain and restore your skin’s natural barrier, and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours. The niacinamide in the formula calms the skin and improves skin texture.
Skin Type: Normal to Oily
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic acid, and Niacinamide
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Fragrance-free
- Non-drying
- Non-irritating
- Value for money
Cons
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 4,148 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
23. Neutrogena Pore Refining Exfoliating Cleanser
The dermatologist-recommended Pore Refining Exfoliating Cleanser by Neutrogena penetrates deep to remove excess sebum, oils, impurities, and makeup from your face, without stripping away the natural moisture. It contains glycolic acid, an AHA exfoliator that penetrates into your skin to exfoliate it and brighten your complexion. The cleanser consists of alpha and beta acids microbeads that smoothens rough uneven patches, leaving even-toned skin with less visible pores. It also unclogs your pores, clears acne, and reduces blemishes.
Skin Type: Sensitive
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Soap-free
- Oil-free
- Gentle
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Drying
24. Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
Image: Botanic Tree The Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser has a gentle yet potent formula that removes excess sebum, oils, impurities, debris, and makeup from your face without over-drying. The 10% glycolic acid penetrates your skin and brightens your complexion. The gentle microbeads eliminate dead skin to reveal glowing skin. Tea tree, shea butter, and bamboo extracts in the formula lighten dark spots, acne scarring, and blemishes while calming irritation and redness. This cleanser reduces aging signs, fights sun damage, and improves skin texture.
Skin Type: Oily and Acne-prone
Key Ingredients: Tea tree, Peppermint, Lavender, Shea butter, Seaweed, Willow bark, and Bamboo extracts
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Anti-aging
- Cruelty-free
- Smells good
- Value for money
Cons
- Drying
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 2,626 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
25. First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser
Image: First Aid Beauty The First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser maintains your skin’s natural acidity and prevents acne flare-ups. The gentle face cleanser cleanses excess oil and makeup without leaving your skin feeling dry or tight. Its anti-inflammatory properties prevent breakouts and lighten the skin tone. The cleanser contains aloe vera and allantoin to calm, nourish, and soothe the skin, while glycerin acts as a natural humectant. White tea extracts, licorice root, and feverfew extracts in the formula have unique antioxidant properties to fight environmental stress.
Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry, Oily, and Combination skin
Key Ingredients: Aloe, Allantoin, Glycerin, Licorice root, and White tea extracts
Pros
- Dermatologist tested
- pH balanced
- Cruelty-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Nano-free
- Nut-free
- Phthalates-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Oxybenzone-free
- Coal tar-free
- Triclocarban-free
- Ethanol-free
Cons
- Drying
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 5,667 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
26. La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Image: La Roche-posay The La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is a creamy formula that helps your skin retain essential moisture while effectively cleansing your skin. It sloughs away dead skin, dirt, excess sebum, makeup, and debris with ease. The glycerin in the creamy cleanser works as a natural moisturizing agent that binds moisture to your skin. The cleanser is powered by prebiotic thermal water for hydrating, soothing, and antioxidant benefits. The niacinamide and ceramides in the formula soothe and nourish your skin, respectively.
Skin Type: Normal to Dry
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Niacinamide, and Glycerin
Pros
- Dermatologist tested
- Allergy-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Soap-free
- Sulphate-free
Cons
- Not moisturizing
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 19,135 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
27. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
Image: Neutrogena The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash contains salicylic acid to fight breakouts and reduce visible redness. The oil-control cleanser is infused with aloe vera and chamomile to calm irritation and clear up acne. The formula eliminates excess oil production by penetrating deep into the skin. It unclogs pores to remove dirt and impurities without stripping away your skin’s moisture. The micro clear technology of the product boosts the delivery of acne medication and provides healthy-looking skin.
Skin Type: Acne-prone
Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Chamomile, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-drying
- Oil-free
- Value for money
Cons
- May cause breakouts
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 989 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
28. Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
Image: Cetaphil The Cetaphil Daily Cleanser is formulated and recommended by dermatologists for effective daily use. It removes makeup, surface oils, and dirt without stripping your skin of essential oils or leaving it feeling dry or tight. The deep cleansing formula cleanses your skin and does not leave any residues. It hydrates your skin and offers refreshed, clean, and flawless-looking skin.
Skin Type: Normal to Oily
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Panthenol, Hydrogenated castor oil
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-drying
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Strong odor
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 10,585 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Now that you know the 28 best facial cleansers, it’s time to learn how to select the best face wash for your skin type. Here are a few factors to consider while choosing a foaming face wash
How To Choose The Best Facial Cleanser
1. Check The Ingredients
Check the ingredients list. Avoid products that contain harmful chemicals like DEA, MEA, TEA, mineral oil, sulfates, parabens, PEG as these may irritate the skin. Look for herbal ingredients and skin-friendly ingredients like niacinamide, ceramide, and PHA. Also, avoid cleansers with artificial fragrances.
2. Skin Type
Pick a product according to the skin type. If you have oily and acne-prone skin, avoid cleansers that have natural plant oils and are comedogenic. Go for ingredients like tea tree oil, AHA and BHA, aloe vera, witch hazel to eliminate excess sebum.
For dry skin, pick products that contain moisture-locking ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid. If you have sensitive skin, choose a dense foaming sensitive skin cleanser with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or willow bark extracts.
3. Check The pH Level
The skin’s natural pH is 5.5. However, several foaming washes have a slightly higher pH. These washes are perfect for targeting acne-prone skin and purify your complexion. If your skin is on the dry side, look for foaming washes with a lesser pH so that it does not strip off moisture.
Once you have picked your cleanser, follow the steps to ensure you are using them correctly.
How To Use Facial Cleanser
Step 1: Wet your neck, face, and hands.
Step 2: Massage a pea-sized amount of the product on your face in circular motions.
Step 3: Rinse off with lukewarm water.
Step 4: Pat your skin dry and follow up with a moisturizer.
Are you wondering how a facial cleanser works? The section will give you all the details. Read on to know more.
How Facial Cleansers Work?
Facial cleansers work by a process known as micellation. This chemical reaction breaks down larger substances such as oils into smaller particles, which gets easily dissolved and rinsed off.
Cleansing your face is a vital part of your skincare routine. Scroll down to read the advantages of using a facial cleanser for your skin.
Facial Cleanser Benefits
- Face washes remove dirt, excess oil, and any other impurities from your face.
- Regularly washing your face with the cleanser will make your skin look healthy and fresh.
- Some cleansers contain AHA and essential oils like tea tree oil, which target acne and breakouts.
- Regular cleansing maintains skin pH balance and prevents pimples.
- A good cleanser keeps your skin hydrated.
- Cleansing your face also helps minimize enlarged pores and keep them unclogged.
The Bottom Line
Your facial skin attracts impurities, germs, dirt, and pollution throughout the day. This clogs your pores, making your skin look dull and lifeless. Properly cleaning your face is a crucial step in a skin care regimen and facial cleansers come as a great savior in removing all the impurities, making your skin squeaky clean and bright. The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is ph-balanced and provides a gentle and effective cleanse, while the InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser is a clean formula that minimizes pores and brightens the skin. The Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser is ideal for those who prefer gentle everyday exfoliation. The insights from reviewers can help in choosing the right cleanser for your skin, helping you maintain a healthy and vibrant skin tone without the risk of adverse reactions. However, consider investing in facial cleansers that are oil-free and hypoallergenic and stay away from the harmful chemical-based facial cleansers that might cause breakouts or irritation.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author, is a certified skin care expert who believes that using a good facial cleanser is an integral part of your skin care routine. The list includes cleansers that have been carefully reviewed by her to help her readers pick the best ones for themselves. They help remove makeup, dirt, fight dangerous microbes, and exfoliate dead cells, leaving you with perfectly clear skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are facial cleansers bad for your skin?
Cleansers are good for your skin only when they are used in the right amount. Excessive cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils in moisture, leaving it dry and irritated.
Does facial cleanser expire?
Yes, most cleansers have a shelf life of about two years when stored in proper condition.
Is facial cleanser the same as face wash?
No. Facial cleansers have hydrating and moisturizing ingredients, whereas face washes are a substitute for soap and sometimes are quite harsh. Facial cleansers are usually gentle and mild and your skin.
Does facial cleanser get rid of acne?
Facial cleansers specifically formulated for acne-prone skin eliminate bacteria that clog your pores and prevent acne.
Is facial cleanser FSA eligible?
Facial cleansers or usually not FSA eligible. But in some cases, if the cleansers are medicated (cleansers used to treat acne and skin other skin conditions) can be covered by FSA.
Is facial cleanser supposed to burn?
Facial cleansers are not supposed to tingle, sting, or burn. If you experience any flaking, irritation, or redness it is a sign that you might be allergic to some ingredients in it. Discontinue using the product and consult a dermatologist.
Does facial cleanser get rid of blackheads?
Yes, few facial cleansers contain ingredients like salicylic acid, witch hazel, glycolic acid, and charcoal which effectively slough away dead skin cells, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Is it ok to use an expired facial cleanser?
No. Most face washes contain active ingredients which begin to depreciate in 6 months. Using expired facial cleansers can cause inflammation, rashes, and skin irritation.
