Best Facial Cleansers For Different Skin Types
1.Best Oil-Free: EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
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 a 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
2. Best Fragrance-Free:CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
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? Watch this video to make an informed decision about the product. 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
3. Best For All Skin Types:InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser
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 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 Cruelty-free Paraben-free SLS-free Mineral oil-free Dye-free Formaldehyde-free Glycol-free Polyethylene-free
Cons
Drying
4. Best For Dull Skin:Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
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
Petroleum-free Oil-free Sulfate-free Gluten-free Phthalates-free Mineral oil-free Formaldehyde-free Oxybenzone-free
Cons
Expensive
5. Best For Daily Use:Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser
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
6. Best For Dark Spots:Youth To The People Kale + Green Tea Spinach Vitamins Superfood Cleanser
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 Cruelty-free Paraben-free Sulfate-free Phthalates-free Mineral-free
Cons
May cause breakouts
7. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Eyeeco Tea Tree Eyelid & Facial Cleanser
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. It 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
The Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser by Philosophy is made with gentle and eco-friendly ingredients. It removes make up 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 Paraben-free Phthalates-free Formaldehyde-free SLS-free SLES-free
Cons None
9. Best pH-Balanced Formula:Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser
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
10. Best Non-drying:Skin Medica Facial Cleanser
The Skin Medica Facial Cleanser is a great addition to your skincare 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 the 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
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
12. Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Facial Cleanser
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
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. It 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
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 product also has natural ingredients like aloe vera extract that calms irritation and soothes inflammation. This professional-quality cleanser offers a refreshed start and purifying end to your day. Skin Type: Oily and Combination Key Ingredients: Lactic Acid, Gluconolactone, and Aloe vera Pros
Lightweight Gentle Paraben-free Fragrance-free Cruelty-free Dye-free
Cons None
15. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
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 formula 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
Cons None
16. Image Skincare Ormedic Balancing Facial Cleanser
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
Cons
Unpleasant scent
17. 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 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
18. Neostrata Restore Facial Cleanser
The Neostrata Restore Facial Cleanser is a super-effective dermatologist-recommended, non-foaming gel 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
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 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
Cons
Unpleasant smell
20. Pure Biology Facial Cleanser
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 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
21. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
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 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-freeh
Cons
Drying
22. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
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
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
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
25. First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser
The First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser maintains your skin’s natural acidity and prevents acne flare-ups. The gentle formula 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
26. La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
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 formula 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
27. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash contains salicylic acid to fight breakouts and reduce visible redness. It 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
28. Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
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 formula deeply 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
Now that you know the 28 best facial cleansers, it’s time to learn how to select the best option 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 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.
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. 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.
