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

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!

22 Best Drugstore Face Cleansers That Are Great For Your Skin – 2024

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

4.6

Image: Cetaphil

BUY ON AMAZON | $22.88

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}

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

The extensive 1,865 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.

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

4.6

Image: Neutrogena

Now 47% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $19.47

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 989 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

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

4.1

Image: Biore

BUY ON AMAZON

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.

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
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now
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
Reviews	1,865	989	450
Price	$22.88	$19.47	-

4. Best Sebum Control:Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam

4.5

Image: Innisfree

BUY ON AMAZON | $10

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.

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

More than 304 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.

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

3.5

Image: St. Botanica

BUY ON AMAZON | $20

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.

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

4.1

Now 56% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $6.99

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.

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

Image: Garnier

Now 11% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.49

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.

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

4.6

Image: La Roche-posay

BUY ON AMAZON | $16.99

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.

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

4.4

Image: Burt's Bees

Now 12% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $8.76

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.

10. Best For Moisturizing:CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

4.6

Image: Cerave

Now 14% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.49

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 4,149 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

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

4.3

Image: Neutrogena

Now 28% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.79

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 1,312 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

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

4.4

Image: Aveeno

BUY ON AMAZON | $29.7

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 704 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

13.Best Skin-Loving Ingredients: Simple Sensitive Skin Experts Foaming Cleanser

4.7

Image: Simple

BUY ON AMAZON | $46.95

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.

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

4.3

Image: Etude House

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.3

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.

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

3.2

Image: Clean & Clear

BUY ON AMAZON

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!

16.Best For Blemishes: Clearasil Stubborn Acne Control 5-In-1 Exfoliating Wash

4.5

Image: Clearasil

BUY ON AMAZON | $7.17

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.

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

4.4

Now 30% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $8.4

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 2,167 rave reviews on Amazon.

18.Best For Clogged Pores: Bioré Baking Soda Pore Cleanser

4.4

Image: Biore

BUY ON AMAZON | $5.64

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 535 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

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

4.4

Image: Cosrx

Now 21% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $11

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 2,466 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

20.Best Nutrient-Rich Formula: Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing Daily Face Wash + Makeup Remover

4.7

Image: Neutrogena

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.16

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.

21. Best For All Skin:Differin Gentle Cleanser

4.4

Image: Differin

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.79

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.

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

4.5

Image: Yes To

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.99

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.

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.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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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Mary AjakaMakeup Artist

 

Mary Ajaka is a celebrity makeup artist with 15 years of experience in TV/media, editorial, and bridal makeup. She has a keen eye for detail and understands that each face is unique, which is why she uses different makeup techniques tailored to the individual.

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Esha SaxenaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.

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Srijita DeCommerce Writer

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