21 Best Face Washes & Cleansers Of 2024, According To An Esthetician
Wash away the dirt and grime of the day without disturbing your skin's natural balance.
Melissa Jannes is a licensed esthetician with 15 years of experience in cosmetology and skin care. She is also the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia and a National Educator for Universal Companies. Melissa's credentials include a valid license in the state of Pennsylvania, and she completed her formal education at the prestigious Beauty School of Middletown in 2008.
Read full bio of Melissa Jannes
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli 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 editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsKrati 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 of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 5 yearsMedha 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 various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
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Your face is like a battleground, indeed, exposed to makeup, impurities, and pollutants. So you must try the best skin cleansing products 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, curated after carefully examining several formulations and reviews, for verified results.
In This Article
21 Best Face Washes & Cleansers Of 2024 For All Skin Types
1. Best For Dry Skin:CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a non-foaming formula for normal to dry skin types. This top-rated face wash has a lotion-like consistency, which 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 video takes you through this product’s details and the reviewer’s experience with the product.
Skin Type: Dry
- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Non-drying
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
- Dermatologically tested
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
- May cause a burning sensation.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 6,165 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
2. Best For Sensitive Skin:Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
The Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is a clinically-proven gentle face cleanser 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 dermatologist-tested 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 and the tester’s experience, here’s a video.
Skin Type: Oily and Sensitive
- Mild Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Hypoallergenic
- Aluminum-free
- Dermatologist recommended
- Contains SLS
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 1,865 reviews claiming its efficacy.
3. 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 with effective face cleansing. 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
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Non-irritating
- Non-drying
- Gentle on skin
- Lathers well
- Ideal for daily use
- Refreshing
None
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser Best For Dry Skin | Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser Best For Sensitive Skin | Elizabeth Mott Sure Thing! Vitamin C Cleanser Best For Skin Brightening | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Oily,sensitive | All |
| Dimensions | 1.95 x 3.38 x 1.63 inches | 7.5 x 4.3 x 4.1 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.04 Pounds | 2.4 Pounds | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 6,165 | 1,865 | - |
| Price | $15.48 | $22.88 | $12.97 |
4. 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 pore cleansing and unclogging pores. It also prevents bacteria, blackheads, pimples, blemishes, and other skin problems.
Skin Type: Oily
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- May dry out the skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 25,666 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
5. Best Cruelty-Free:WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash
This natural face wash from WOW is infused with the goodness of organic apple cider vinegar that balances sebum and controls acne. The sensitive skin cleanser 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 purifying 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
- Built-in brush
- Contains 100% natural actives
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- Mineral-oil-free
- Color-free
- May dry out the skin.
Pro Tip6. Best Gentle:BURT’S BEES Facial Cleanser
If you have sensitive skin, the BURT’S BEES Facial Cleanser is just right for you; it is a clinically-proven formula that is extremely gentle. 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
- 99% natural
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
- Dermatologist-tested
- Soap-free
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Petrolatum-free
- SLS-free
- Fragrance-free
- May cause breakouts.
7. Best Non-Comedogenic Formula:VANICREAM Gentle Facial Cleanser
This acne-fighting cleanser from VANICREAM has a gentle, non-comedogenic formula that cleanses your face of dirt, makeup, oil, and impurities without drying it. This results-driven 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
- Non-comedogenic
- Soap-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Sulfate-free
- Lanolin-free
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Cocamidopropyl betaine-free
- Gluten-free
- Drying
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 20,397 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
8. Best Hypoallergenic Formula:NEUTROGENA Fresh Foaming Cleanser
The NEUTROGENA Fresh Foaming Cleanser deep cleanses the face and gets rid of dirt, excess oil, waterproof makeup, and other impurities. The oil control face wash 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
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Safe for sensitive eyes
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Soap-free
- Alcohol-free
- Does not foam.
9. Best Fragrance-Free:LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser
The Toleriane Purifying Cleanser is a hydrating cleanser that has a foaming 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 dermatologist-recommended 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
- Non-comedogenic
- Allergy-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Sensitive skin tested
- Soap-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Drying
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 18,505 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
10. Best Natural Ingredients:THE FACE SHOP Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam
This face wash from THE FACE SHOP is one of the best brightening face cleanser, 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
- Contains natural ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Tar-free
- Talc-free
- Paraffin-free
- Polyacrylamide-free
- Contains SLS
- Leaves a white chalky film
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 2,167 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
11. 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
- Dermatologically tested
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- SLES-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Unpleasant smell
12. 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
- Dermatologically tested
- Paraben-free
- Reduces acne
- Drying
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 19,629 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
13. proactiv Renewing Cleanser
proactiv brings you a comprehensive therapy for sensitive and acne-prone skin. This exfoliating face wash 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
- Dermatologist-tested
- Clears acne
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Expensive
14. OLAY REGENERIST Detoxifying Pore Scrub Cleanser
This anti-aging face wash 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
- Anti-aging
- Gentle
- Value for money
- Strong fragrance
15. PACIFICA Sea Foam Complete Face Wash
The PACIFICA Sea Foam Face Wash is an anti-aging formula powered by advanced marine phytonutrients. It is an effective makeup remover face wash and also eliminates impurities, dirt, and excess oil, thus making 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
- Smells good
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- SLS-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Can be drying.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 7,118 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
16. 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.
The skin-friendly ingredients of this herbal face cleanser 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
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- PEG-free
- Clinically tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- May dry out the skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 6,073 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
17. 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
- Non-comedogenic
- Anti-aging
- Gentle
- Dermatologically tested
- Smells good
- Does not lather much.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 704 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
18. 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
- Gentle
- Oil-free
- pH-balanced
- Sensitivity-free
- Dermatologically tested
- May cause irritation.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 1,404 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
19. 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 clinically-proven formula hydrates and clears the skin of age lines, wrinkles, and redness, thus keeping it smooth and clear. The foaming cleanser has shown proven efficacy in reducing irritation. Furthermore, it 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
- pH balanced
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
None
"This foaming cleanser helps me remove makeup pretty effectively. I like that it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin and keeps it soft. I usually pair it with a moisturizer and an SPF product for the best results."
20. 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
- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologically tested
- Oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Unpleasant smell
21. 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
- Hypoallergenic
- SLS-free
- SLES-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- BPA-free
- Cruelty-free
- Expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 2,838 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
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 buying a facial cleanser online or at a beauty shop.
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 scientifically formulated 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.
Infographic: Best Ingredients In Face Washes For Your Skin Type
Cleansing is the first and most important step in a good skin care routine. However, it is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when choosing cleansers. You must pick a cleanser that is tailor-made with ingredients to suit your skin’s type and concerns. Check out the infographic below to know which ingredients to look for while choosing a face wash for your skin’s specific needs. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
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. While the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser has a gentle, hydrating formula suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, the Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser offers detoxifying benefits and is perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin, and the LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser soothes the skin and helps maintain the skin’s natural balance. 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. Some people may only need to cleanse once at night if they are dry or alipidic (produce minimal oil). In such skin types, over-cleansing can damage the moisture barrier and create acne flares and/or sensitivity.
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. Cleansing should be done every night before bed to avoid clogged pores, but also to not transfer debris to your pillowcase that can cause skin issues.
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?
Traditional body soaps can be too harsh for skin on the face. It is likely the skin will feel extremely dry and tight due to being stripped of its protective barrier, leaving it feeling uncomfortable and vulnerable to irritants and bacteria. 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.
Best Natural Face Washes For Skin That Is Healthy And RadiantBest Anti-Aging Face Washes And Cleansers To Keep Wrinkles At BayBest Paraben-Free Face Washes For Every Skin TypeBest Foaming Face Washes
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