16 Best Foaming Cleansers Of 2024 For Glowing Skin
For the first step in your skincare routine that exposes clean, glowing skin.
Hillary Clark is a third-generation beauty entrepreneur, celebrity makeup artist, and medical esthetician with 21 years of experience. Her stints as the youngest Beauty Director for Nordstrom and West Coast Beauty Editor for Sephora provided ample opportunities for her to collaborate with some of the most popular names in the beauty industry, such as Dr.
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Experience: 2 yearsPooja is a Mass Communications and Psychology graduate from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and has two years of experience as a content writer. Her education has helped her develop the perfect balance between what the reader wants to know and what the reader has to know.
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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.
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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.
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Cleaning your skin using foaming cleansers is a lot of fun! Your skin will also feel squeaky fresh, and clean when you use the best foam cleansers for glowing skin. The foam-based cleansers remove pollution, filth, makeup, and grease. In addition, the mild foaming action cleanses your skin just enough to keep filth and stickiness at bay. However, most doctors advise against using foamy cleansers, especially if you have dry skin, because they deplete your skin of its natural oils. To our benefit, most manufacturers are now developing SLS-free foamy cleansers with a whipping cream-like texture without causing your skin to get dry. In this article, we have listed the best foam cleansers for you to try. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dig in.
Note: Do a patch test before using foam cleansers if you have dry or sensitive skin.
In This Article
Top 15 Foaming Cleansers For Glossy And Glowing Skin
1. Best Hypoallergenic:Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Facial Cleanser
Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Facial Cleanser is a dermatologist-tested, award-winning cleanser that helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup instantly. It even removes stubborn waterproof eye makeup without using oils or makeup remover. It does not sting or irritate sensitive skin. This foam face wash rinses off completely without leaving behind pore-clogging residues. Take a look at this video for an honest review of a tester’s experience with Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Facial Cleanser.
Key Ingredients: Water, glycerin, lauryl glucoside, decyl glucoside, cocamidopropyl betaine, glycereth-7, ammonium laureth sulfate, sodium cocoyl sarcosinate, PEG-120 methyl glucose dioleate, glycol stearate, cocamide MEA, fragrance, DMDM hydantoin, tetrasodium EDTA, andcitric acid.
Suitable For: Sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Does not dry out your skin
- Soap-free
- Alcohol-free
None
Quick Tip2. Best Non-Comedogenic:CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
This gentle foaming cleanser is ideal for removing excess oil, dirt, and makeup. It contains ingredients that help reinforce the skin’s barrier, improve hydration, and soothe inflamed skin. This formula was developed by dermatologists to deeply cleanse and refresh the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Its formula has three essential ingredients – hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide – that help soothe irritated skin and balance its pH level. Check this video for a detailed review of the tester’s experience of using CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide.
Suitable For: Normal to oily skin
- Maintains the skin’s natural moisture
- Oil-control formula
- Calms irritated skin
- Amazing makeup removal
- Non-comedogenic
- Anti-aging
- Does not dry out or tighten the skin
- Fragrance-free
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 4,149 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
3. Best Organic Formula: Obagi Medical Foaming Cleanser
The Obagi Medical Foaming Cleanser comes with an antioxidant-rich formula which offers deep cleansing to the skin. It removes impurities, build-up, oil, and makeup effectively. The dermatologist-tested formula fights environmental stressors and creates a clear base on the skin for better absorption of other skin care products. The BioDToxTM detoxifies the skin along with other bioactive compounds. Aloe polyphenols moisturize the skin and soothe it. Broccoli extract is a great source of sulforaphane which fights free radicals while citrus bioflavonoids defend the skin against free radicals and other stressors. This cleanser has a mild white grapefruit scent.
Key Ingredients: Aloe Polyphenols, Brassica Oleracea Italica, and Citrus Bioflavonoids
- Naturally-derived ingredients
- Antioxidant properties
- Offers skin detoxification
- Combats environmental aggressors
- Neutralizes free radicals
None
Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Facial Cleanser Best Hypoallergenic | CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser Best Non-Comedogenic | Obagi Medical Foaming Cleanser Best Organic Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Sensitive |
| Dimensions | 1.68 x 2.79 x 6.66 inches | 3.5 x 3.5 x 7.5 inches | 1.81 x 1.81 x 6.75 inches |
| Weight | 11.2 Ounces. | 1.21 Pounds | 1.12 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 17,411 | 4,149 | - |
| Price | $8.98 | $15.49 | $44 |
4. Best Moisturizing:Tonymoly Peach Punch Sweet Foam Cleanser
Tonymoly Peach Punch Sweet Foam Cleanser effectively eliminates impurities and leaves your skin feeling moist, clean, and refreshed. The formula is infused with nutritious ingredients like peach extracts and olive oil that helps cleanse your face without irritating it. The vitamin-rich and moisturizing properties of this cleanser will improve the pH of your skin. The product does not dry out your skin and its peach scent is loved by the many reviewers. Here is the video of a personal review of the Tonymoly Peach Punch Sweet Foam Cleanser.
Key Ingredients: Peach extract and olive oil
Suitable For: All skin types
- Moisturizes the skin
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Removes impurities and makeup
- Mild formula
- Availability issues
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 1,062 great reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Fragrance-Free:EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is an exfoliating foaming cleanser that helps you gently clean the skin of dirt, impurities, and mild makeup. This dermatologically tested formula is a mixture of gentle enzymes and amino acids that helps you achieve clear and balanced skin. It is packed with micro-massaging bubbles that remove dead skin cells from the skin. Its fragrance-free, vegan, and bromelain-infused formulation treats skin inflammation and imparts a smooth texture. The thick, rich foam cleanses well and leaves your skin feeling hydrated and rejuvenated.
Key Ingredients: Bromelain
Suitable For: All skin types
- Safe for all skin types
- Reduces inflammation
- pH-balanced
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
- Oil-free
- Gentle
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Not ideal for everyday use on sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 1,404 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
6. Best Mild Formula:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser
This gentle foaming gel cleanser is a holy grail for oily and sensitive skin. Its formula contains zinc pidolate that effectively cleanses away dirt and oil without overdrying your skin. It removes impurities while promoting the skin’s pH balance. This face cleanser is ideal for acne-prone skin as it helps remove excess oil from the pores and is recommended by multiple reviewers.
Key Ingredients: Zinc pidolate and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
Suitable For: Oily and sensitive skin
- Dermatologist tested
- Mild formula
- Safe on sensitive skin
- Paraben-free
- Allergy-tested
- Non-comedogenic
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 4,341 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
7. Best Skin-Friendly:Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser
This gentle cleanser eliminates dirt, oil, and makeup without overdrying or aggravating your skin. It is formulated with calming feverfew, a natural ingredient extracted from chamomile, that soothes irritated skin and helps reduce redness. This dermatologist-recommended cleanser is gentle enough to use every day.
Key Ingredients: Chamomile extracts
Suitable For: Sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Soap-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Contains skin-friendly ingredients
None
Pro Tip8. Best Hydrating:The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser
The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser is a gentle brightening and cleansing foam enriched with rice extracts that offer clear skin with an even complexion. It is the cleansing properties of a natural rice water solution that helps to brighten up the skin and give you fresh and youthful skin. This formula has hydrating ingredients that gently cleanse your skin without irritating it. It has a creamy texture that glides seamlessly on the skin, according to reviewers. It washes away impurities effortlessly and serves as the second step of double cleansing.
Key Ingredients: Rice water, soap wart, and moringa oil
Suitable For: All skin types
- Brightens the skin
- Improves complexion
- Removes dirt and pollutants
- Gives your skin a glossy finish
- Hydrates the skin
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,167 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
9. Best Clinically Tested:Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser
This clinically-tested gentle foaming cleanser effortlessly removes dirt, oil, and makeup. This gentle exfoliation product is infused with skin conditioners and vitamin complexes that cleanse and soften your skin without damaging its natural moisture barrier balance. This results in soft, clean, fresh, and hydrated skin that is loved by skin care reviewers. The self-foaming pump produces a rich and airy lather that rinses away easily.
Key Ingredients: Panthenol (vitamin B5) and tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E).
Suitable For: Sensitive skin
- Clinically tested
- Dermatologist tested
- Gentle for daily use
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-drying
- Non-irritating
10. Best Refreshing Formula:Neogen Dermalogy Real Fresh Foam Green Tea Cleanser
Neogen Dermalogy Real Fresh Foam Green Tea Cleanser is the perfect product for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. It contains fermented green tea extracts that brighten, hydrate, and soothe your skin. This foam-purifying cleanser effectively removes impurities such as sweat and dirt from the pores without stripping away your skin’s natural oils. It is a lightweight and hydrating formula that is suitable for a double-cleanse routine.
Key Ingredients: Green tea leaf extract, moringa seed extract, papaya fruit water, and orange fruit extract.
Suitable For: Oily and combination skin
- Balances the pH level
- Contains skin-compatible and eco-conscious ingredients
- Water-based formula
- Refreshing formula
- Imparts a fresh, natural glow
- Non-drying
- Non-irritating
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 500 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
11. Best Gentle Formula:SkinFood Egg White Perfect Pore Cleansing Foam
This cleansing foam removes impurities and excess oils to give you soft, smooth, and poreless skin. Its formula contains egg yolk, albumin, and hot spring water that help control oil secretion and tighten the skin for a youthful appearance. This pore-cleansing formula also helps remove blackheads. According to reviews, a little amount goes a long way with this product.
Key Ingredients: Albumin extract, egg yolk extract, hot spring water, sulfur, 5RG-Pore eraser.
Suitable For: Oily and combination skin
- Imparts a fresh glow
- Removes heavy makeup and impurities
- Ideal for deep cleansing
- Gentle formula
- Non-drying
None
Pro Tip12. Best Deep Cleansing:KORRES Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cream Cleanser
Korres Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cream Cleanser is an excellent foaming cleanser formulated with natural ingredients to offer glowing skin. It is infused with the essence of rich, real Greek yogurt, amaranth seed extracts, and other skin-friendly ingredients that work together to enhance skin texture and improve the overall skin tone. The formulation starts as creamy and turns to foam when it comes in contact with water which is gentle on the skin. It is also suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Greek yogurt, amaranth seed extracts, and sea water
Suitable For: Sensitive skin
- Hydrating
- Reduces skin inflammation
- Rejuvenates the skin
- Dermatologically-tested
- Cruelty free
- Fragrance-free
- Suits all skin types
None
13. Best pH Balanced:Etude House Soon Jung 5.5 Foam Cleanser
This mild cleanser is formulated with a low pH, which allows gentle cleansing with a rich lather, leaving your skin moisturized and rejuvenated. The low acidic formula helps cleanse sensitive skin without irritating it. This pH-balanced cleanser leaves your skin feeling fresh and healthy without stripping it of its natural oils. The soft and creamy foam, when massaged into your skin, leaves a refreshing feel on your skin. This cleanser also helps strengthen your skin’s protective barrier.
Key Ingredients: Citric acid and glycerin
Suitable For: All skin types
- Leaves a moist finish
- Imparts a refreshing glow
- Blemish control
- Rich and luxurious lather
- Hypoallergenic
- Free of harmful chemicals
None
"This cleanser works well on my sensitive skin without resulting in dryness or irritation. I often use it to remove light makeup after work. It works without damaging my skin or triggering the already-existing acne and breakouts. It has transformed my skin’s health and I love its subtle scent."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 764 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
14. Best For Sensitive Skin:La Roche Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Moisturizing Wash
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ Moisturizing Body and Face Wash is a gentle cleansing foam wash that helps deeply clean the skin while leaving it nourished and soft. Infused with the goodness of shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide, it helps eliminate dryness and itchiness. This daily cleanser is simple to use and lathers well, leaving the skin all soft and supple. It is best regarded for use on dry and sensitive skin, as recommended by dermatologists.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide
Suitable For: Dry and sensitive skin
- Prevents skin from drying
- Value for money
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Soap-free
- Fragrance-free
- Allergy tested
None
15. Best Dermatologist-Tested:Burt’s Bees Skin Nourishment Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Burt’s Bees Skin Nourishment Gentle Foaming Cleanser lathers gently and keeps your skin healthy and radiant. It eliminates makeup, dirt, and oil without irritating your skin. This dermatologically-approved cleanser perfectly suits combination and normal skin types as the formula includes royal jelly that nourishes and enhances your skin for a fresh glow. This foaming face cleanser is formulated without parabens, SLS, or phthalates. It is safe for daily use.
Key Ingredients: Royal jelly
Suitable For: Normal to combination skin
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Convenient built-in pump
- 100% natural ingredients
- Rejuvenates the skin
None
16. Best For Everyday Use:Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser
Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser is a natural, daily foaming cleanser that gently cleans and purifies the skin. It is packed with skin-soothing ingredients that keep your skin clear and glowing. The super soothing cleansing base of the cleanser is formulated to deep cleanse the skin without stripping its natural oil. Completely free from soap and artificial agents, it is best to use every day and is suitable for all skin types.
Key Ingredients: Sage extract, chamomile extract, and grape water
Suitable For: All skin types
- Made with 97% natural ingredients
- Vegan
- Dermatologist-tested
- Skin purification
- Soap-free
- Paraben-free
- No synthetic agents
- Maintains the skin’s natural moisture
- Sulfate-free
None
Clean, fresh, and hydrated skin makes people feel comfortable and confident. Before buying the best foam cleansers for glowing skin, here are a few things to consider.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Foam Cleaners for Glowing Skin
- Natural Ingredients
Foam cleaners with a rich mix of natural ingredients refresh the skin. Foaming face washes should contain botanical ingredients like green tea extract, peach extract, and rice water. Opt for one that is rich in antioxidant properties, and that replenishes the lost moisture of the skin. The blend of vitamin E and B5 olive oil, moringa oil hydrates and nourishes the skin cells while increasing glow.
- Suits All Skin Types
Go for a cleansing foam that works well on all skin types. It should effectively remove dirt, debris, and excess sebum without drying out the skin. The foam cleanser must also have rich moisturizing abilities to treat dry or dehydrated skin. Finally, it must be gentle and soothing enough to work on sensitive skin without causing any irritation or itching.
- Improves Skin Tone
Look for foam cleaners that improve your skin tone with every use. Cleansing gently in a circular motion will make your skin moisturized and softer. The best cleansing foams should maintain the natural pH of your skin. It should also work well on acne-prone and inflamed skin.
- Non-Comedogenic
Skincare products like cleansing foams that are non-comedogenic don’t clog the pores. It prevents issues like acne, pimples, and blackheads. Thus, one should buy foam cleaners that are non-comedogenic.
- Dermatologically Tested
The cleansing foam should be dermatologically tested. The face cleaners must not contain harmful chemical additives such as alcohol, SLS, phthalate, silicone, GMO, paraben, and artificial fragrances which dry out skin or irritate sensitive skin. It should remove the skin impurities and makeup with deep cleansing. The cleansing foam must be gentle and skin-friendly for daily use.
These are the best foaming face washes out there! If you liked any product from the list, try it out and experience a rich, luxurious foaming facial right in the comfort of your home.
Medical Esthetician, Hillary Clark, says, “Many of my clients like the idea of a foaming cleanser but find them to be too harsh and may strip their skin. If this happens to you, don’t despair- they can be used for the body and even for shaving. Many contain skincare ingredients that will cleanse pores and freshly shaved skin to avoid ingrown hair.”
Infographic: Dos And Don’ts Of Using Foam Cleansers
Foaming cleansers are popular choices to remove oil and impurities without making the skin greasy or dry. However, it is essential to use them the right way for maximum benefits. Check out the infographic below to know about the dos and don’ts of using a foaming cleanser.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Foaming cleansers form a rich lather that helps wash away dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. They enable a deep cleanse, refreshed skin, and oil control, and rinse away easily. The Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Facial Cleanser is suitable for removing waterproof makeup and does not irritate the skin. For hydration and strengthening the skin’s natural barrier, try the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, while the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser is ideal for maintaining the skin’s pH balance for oily and sensitive skin. The above list has the best foaming cleanser on the market. Pick one according to your skin type and experience a rich, luxurious foaming facial right in the comfort of your home
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author Pooja Karkala is a skincare enthusiast. She has done extensive research on several key ingredients that are used in foam cleansers. She has also checked many product reviews online and compiled the list of the best foam cleansers for glossy and glowing skin. These products maintain the skin’s natural moisture and do not dry out the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use a foaming cleanser?
There are a series of steps involved in foam cleansing. They are:
1. Dampen your face with warm water.
2. Massage two pumps of cleansing foam gently all over your face.
3. Rinse it off completely with lukewarm water.
4. Pat your face dry with a towel.
5. Apply a gentle moisturizer.
What is the difference between a face wash and a foaming cleanser?
While both do the basic duty of cleansing your face, a foaming cleanser is gentler than a face wash. It is more hydrating and moisturizing than a regular face wash. On the other hand, a face wash is a substitute for soap.
Should I use both cleanser and face wash?
Yes, you can use both. However, if you have dry skin, just use a foaming cleanser as it is much more moisturizing than a face wash.
What skin type is a foaming cleanser best for?
A foaming cleanser is usually recommended for oily and acne-prone skin as it helps unclog the pores by deep cleansing.
How often should I use cleansing foam?
You can use a foaming cleanser at least once daily.
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