13 Best Fragrance-Free Face Washes For Every Skin Type – 2024
Enjoy fresh, clean, and hydrated skin that stays bright and oil-free for a long time.
Richard Mears has been in the beauty industry for over 30 years. He has worked alongside several household brands to help create some of the bestselling hair and beauty products on the market. In 2009, Richard became disheartened at continuously being asked to develop products that did not deliver results.
Read full bio of Richard Mears
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
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
Experience: 4 yearsMonomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach with a keen interest in skin, hair, tattoos, nail art, and lifestyle trends.
Read full bio of Monomita Chakraborty
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You can release the day’s tension with a great face wash. Many people prefer a fragrance-free face wash. Some people find the smell of the regular face washes off-putting. Such face washes are excellent for sensitive skin types. Even those with a delicate nose find them beneficial.
Zits and blackheads are more common when you spend a great deal of time outdoors. Exfoliation is vital and a good clinically-proven facewash works wonders. Choosing the right face wash is the first step to having a good skin care routine. However, finding the right one backed with a good reviewer’s experience is not an easy task. If you’d like to get glowing, radiant skin without the annoying scent that goes along with facial wash, keep reading.
Most fragrance-free products are free of synthetic fragrances such as parabens and phthalates. Chemicals such as these can cause skin irritation. Nevertheless, we would like to point out that you may notice some light scents in the products despite the fragrance-free claim. These mild scents are natural and are acceptable by most people. It occurs because of the nourishing organic ingredients present. A fragrant-free face wash will gently cleanse and exfoliate your skin so that it feels clean and soft. If you are looking for the best fragrance-free face washes but don’t know which to choose, we’ve got your back. Our top 13 fragrance-free face washes are sure to give you a fresh look.
In This Article
Bring Out Your Inner Radiance With The Top 13 Fragrance-Free Face Washes Of 2024
1. Best Non-Irritating Formula:CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser
Say hello to clean, no-nonsense skincare with this unscented face wash, containing clinically verified ingredients. It is gentle on the skin, made without harsh microbeads that may irritate the skin. Infused with the essential ceramides that our skin craves, this fragrance-free facial cleanserleaves skin feeling clean without stripping it of moisture. Salicylic acid rids the skin of impurities, leaving it soft and smooth. Developed by dermatologists, this face has a rich lather, which is suitable for all skin types. Richard Mears, a beauty formulator, says, “This foaming face wash cleanses and exfoliates without leaving your skin stripped or tight. The cleanser is suitable for acne-prone, oily skin and even conditions like psoriasis. It is a well rounded cleanser that can be introduced to slightly younger skin as well as more mature skin if oiliness is a concern.” Here’s an honest review of the product. Check it out to know the reviewer’s experience and whether the product shows proven efficacy.
Pros
- Non-drying formula
- Non-irritating formula
- Non-comedogenic ingredients
- Dermatologist recommended
- Designed for daily use
Cons
- Might not be suitable for acne-prone skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 42,692 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
2. Best For Sensitive Skin Problems:Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Your irritated, acne-prone skin can breathe a sigh of relief as this fragrance-free, gentle face wash is designed especially for those with sensitive skin problems. This non-foaming daily cleanser penetrates deep to rid of clogged pores, dirt, makeup, and impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. Suitable for all skin types, this soap-free cream cleanser calms and soothes the skin without leaving any pore-clogging residue. This cleanser can be used with or without water and maintains the skin’s natural pH balance. Here’s a video featuring a detailed review of the product.
Pros
- Creamy, soap-free formula
- Clinically tested for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist recommended
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
Cons
- Might not be best suited for those with very dry skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 39,368 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
3. Best Hypoallergenic:Burt’s Bees Facial Cleanser
Formulated with some of the best that nature has to offer, this hypoallergenic fragrance-free face wash is infused with cotton, aloe, and rice extract, which gently cleanses skin of dirt, oil, and makeup without causing redness or irritation. Skin is left feeling soft, soothed, and moisturized with a clean, healthy glow. Designed with clinically backed skincare ingredients, especially for sensitive skin, this cleanser is allergy-tested, making it ideal for daily use. The luxuriously hydrating cream texture and ingredients like sunflower seed oil, beeswax, and coconut oil, make this product one that you’ll keep returning to.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Made with 98.9% natural ingredients
- Dermatologist-tested
- Free of parabens, phthalates, SLS, and petrolatum.
Cons
- Some might find the consistency of this product a bit thin.
CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser Best Non-Irritating Formula | Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser Best For Sensitive Skin Problems | Burt’s Bees Facial Cleanser Best Hypoallergenic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal skin | All | All |
| Dimensions | 2.8 x 1.46 x 6.75 inches | 2.38 x 4 x 7.99 inches | 3 x 2 x 7 inches |
| Weight | 10.4 Ounces | 1.5 Pounds. | 6.7 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 42,692 | 39,368 | 1,242 |
| Price | $9.82 | $16.79 | $8.76 |
4. Best Dermatologist-Tested:La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser
Are you looking for a hydrating face wash that does the job without clogging your pores? This oil-free and fragrance-free cleanser is formulated with prebiotic thermal spring water and ceramides to gently cleanse and exfoliate the skin while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The foaming gel, with its clinically-proven ingredients, ensures skin is left feeling squeaky clean, fresh, and radiant. Suitable for all skin types and safe for sensitive skin, this soap-free cleanser can be used daily as part of a meticulous skin care regime. Richard Mears opines, “This foaming cleanser will leave your skin free of debris and makeup. The cleanser contains niacinamide, which is a water soluble vitamin that helps reduce redness. Overall, it is a lovely cleanser, especially enjoyed by people with oily and sensitive skin.”
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Soap-free and sulfate-free
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Free of parabens and fragrances
Cons
- This product is not cruelty-free and might not be suitable for vegans.
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 18,505 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
5. Best For Redness:Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser
If you’re looking for a soothing face wash that doubles up as a makeup remover, your search ends here with this calming foaming cleanser. It removes impurities and makeup effectively without causing any redness or irritation. Formulated with feverfew and chamomile, this soap-free cleanser is sensitive and skin-friendly that helps soothes dry, irritated skin while giving skin a healthy, radiant glow. Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, dermatologists recommend this Aveeno fragrance-free face wash product for even the most sensitive skin types.
Pros
- Soap-free and fragrance-free formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Designed for daily use
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist recommended
Cons
- Some might find that this product doesn’t foam enough.
6. Best For All Skin Types:Liquid Neutrogena Transparent Facial Cleanser
This all-time favorite Neutrogena fragrance-free face wash is formulated with glycerin to wash away dirt, impurities, and bacteria without leaving a residue. Skin is left feeling clean and moisturized with a clear, healthy-looking complexion. Mild and effective, this cleanser is a suitable choice for those sensitive to fragrances and desire a product that is not harsh or irritating to the skin. The oil-free and non-comedogenic ingredients make this product ideal for skin that is prone to acne and breakouts.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Designed for daily use
- Fragrance-free formula
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist recommended
Cons
- Some might find that this cleanser might not remove eye makeup effectively.
7. Best Soap-Free:Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly cleanser without chemicals, this soap-free cleanser is a great choice. Formulated without dyes, lanolin, formaldehyde, and other chemical irritants, this gentle cleanser is effective and nourishing. Ideal for all skin types, this paraben and fragrance-free face washcan be used by the entire family and is dermatologist-tested to be safe even on sensitive skin. Skin is left feeling soft, clean, and fresh without stripping the skin’s moisture and natural oils.
Pros
- Free of parabens, dyes, and fragrances
- Sulfate and betaine-free
- Gluten-free
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Suitable for normal and sensitive skin.
Cons
- May not be best suited for dry skin or people with eczema
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 4,510 rave reviews on Amazon.
8. Best Oil-Free Formula:Garnier SkinActive The Gentle Sulfate-Free Cleanser
Are you looking for an alcohol and fragrance-free face wash, which gently cleanses your skin without making it feel tight or dry? Try this nourishing face wash rich in glycerin! It doubles up as a makeup remover while caring for your skin, all at the same time. The sulfate-free lotion offers a rich foamy lather, which exfoliates your skin, leaving your face feeling clean, fresh, and healthy-looking. Suitable for all skin types, this product is dermatologist-tested.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free or alcohol, sulfates, and fragrance
- Soap-free and oil-free formula
- Non-comedogenic ingredients
- Dermatologist-tested and ophthalmologist-tested.
Cons
- Some might find this product a bit drying.
9. Best For Eczema:EraOrganics Face + Body Cleanser
Restore dull and damaged skin with this multi-purpose cleanser that can be used on the face and the body. It has deep cleansing properties and offers nourishment with natural ingredients. Effective against eczema, acne, psoriasis, and other sensitive skin problems or oily skin types, this unscented facial cleanser contains skin-plumping manuka honey and soothing aloe vera, which boost healing and repair the skin without drying it out. Vitamin Eand cehami extract provide antimicrobial and cellular regeneration benefits for skin that is soft and supple.
Pros
- Made with natural and organic ingredients
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Designed for daily use
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
- Free of parabens and sulfates
Cons
- May not be as hydrating as expected
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 1,907 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
10. Best For Skin Brightening:Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash
Infused with natural ingredients that lend a therapeutic forest-fresh scent that feels like a breath of fresh air, this face wash is full of skin-loving, non-toxic goodness. Sugar maple brightens skin, and aloe veraprovides hydration, while lemon extract gently exfoliates the skin for a clean, fresh look. Suitable for all skin types, this natural fragrance-free face wash provides a luxuriously rich foam, which removes oil and grime, and soothes and moisturizes the skin. It also helps in refreshing and revitalizing your skin and leaves it looking softer and brighter.
Pros
- Contains natural and organic ingredients
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates
- Contains no toxins or endocrine disruptors
- Made without artificial colors and fragrances
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be best suited for very oily skin
Did You Know?11. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Paula’s Choice Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser
Say goodbye to dullness, redness, and sebum-filled pores with this gentle foaming unscented cleanser for oily skin. Lightweight and nourishing, this face wash is infused with skin-plumping hyaluronic acid, which provides essential hydration, ceramides to restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier, and soothing aloe vera to offer relief from irritation and redness. Perfectly balanced with natural ingredients, this face wash has anti-aging benefits and reduces the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and fine lines. Richard Mears says, “The cleanser is suitable for most skin concerns, from normal/oily to sensitive and acne-prone. You can use it in the morning and evening on the face, neck and chest. The formula is packed with hyaluronic Acid, aloe, and ceramides that will leave the skin fresh, hydrated and soothed. It comes in an easy to use, shower-friendly, throw in your gym bag kind of container.”
Pros
- Suitable for oily, acne-prone skin
- Non-irritating, lightweight formula
- Paraben-free and fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this face wash a bit creamy.
12. Best For Daily Use:Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser
Specially designed for reactive skin, this calming pH-balanced cleanser soothes and heals over-processed skin. Ideal for sensitive skin, this foaming non-fragrance face wash delicately cleanses and restores the skin’s protective barrier for soft, healthy-looking skin. This cleanser is gentle enough for daily use and can also be wiped off with a damp washcloth for skin too sensitive for water. Raspberry fruit extract and lavender flower extract are just some of the impressive ingredients that make this fragrance-free face wash a popular choice. Richard Mears adds, “It is an easy to use daily cleanser that helps maintain your skin’s barrier, while rinsing away dirt and debris. It also calms and cools the skin.”
Pros
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Formulated without artificial colors and fragrances
- Gluten-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Some might find that this face wash needs to be paired with a makeup remover.
13. Best Oil-Free Formula:Meaningful Beauty Skin Softening Cleanser
If you’ve been wondering where the gorgeous celebrities get their flawless, seemingly ageless skin, you’re in the right place. This luxuriously creamy fragrance-free cleanser is non-stripping, that is, it thoroughly cleanses skin without ripping its essential moisture and natural oils. Effective against even waterproof makeup, this gentle yet effective formula clarifies skin for a youthful, glowing complexion. Suitable for all skin types, the key ingredients include beautifying apple extract, which provides essential moisture and nourishment. Richard Mears exclaims, “This is an ultra-calming and soothing cleanser, that is fragrance-free and non-stripping. Your skin feels soft, comfortable, and clean after you cleanse it with this formula. The cleanser is effective against waterproof makeup, yet gentle enough to leave you with a glowing complexion.”
Pros
- Non-foaming, oil-free formula
- Soap-free and fragrance-free
- Effective against waterproof makeup
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this product a bit thin.
Now that we have looked at our thoughtfully curated list of the 13 best fragrance-free face washes in 2024, let us look at some things to consider when picking the product best suited for your requirements.
How Do I Choose The Right Fragrance-Free Face Wash?
- Skin type
Your specific skin type has unique requirements, and whether you’re a beauty-conscious diva or the kind to just slap on some moisturizer before heading out of the house, chances are, you’re well versed with which category your skin falls under. Those with oily and acne-prone skin should pick a face wash with non-comedogenic, soothing ingredients, which gently cleanse the skin without clogging the pores. Dry skin would benefit from a product that doesn’t strip the skin of essential oils and nutrients. In contrast, those prone to eczema, psoriasis, and other skin problems should pick a product labeled as safe and dermatologist-tested to be effective for sensitive skin. - Ingredient list
Any smart beauty consumer would know that the secret to quality skin care products lies in something as deceptively simple as the shortest ingredient list. If you’ve chosen to switch to a fragrance-free face wash, chances are, you care about the chemicals you put on your skin. Parabens, phthalates, SLS, and petrolatum not only irritate the skin, but they can also have long-lasting implications as they are known endocrine disruptors, and it is best to put as much distance as possible between your skin and these products. You can’t go wrong with natural and organic ingredients, and it is best to pick a face wash full of these skin-loving gifts from nature. - Texture
The texture of your face wash, much like the comforting texture of your favorite dessert, is totally a matter of personal preference. If you like that squeaky clean feeling, pick a lightweight face wash that produces a rich foamy lather. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, choose a decadent, creamy face wash that feels moisturizing and nourishing on the skin.
Also, before committing to a skincare product, always perform a patch test to know whether it is suitable for your skin type. Testing a product’s effectiveness before usage is very important for people with acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Infographic: Ingredients & Mistakes To Avoid In Skin Care
Everyone desires healthy and glowing skin. A proper cleansing routine and a healthy lifestyle are necessary to achieve the skin of your dreams. But, we often include the wrong cleansing products that contain harmful ingredients in our regimen and bear the side effects. This infographic lists the harsh ingredients to avoid in a cleanser and prevent damaging your skin. Scroll down to understand the common skin care mistakes and how to undo them. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
As more and more of us are transitioning to clean beauty products and ditching the known chemicals for milder and better-for-you products, the choice to make the switch to a fragrance-free wash is a logical and necessary step. If you are looking for a product for acne-prone skin, pick the CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser. To maintain your skin’s pH balance, opt for the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, while the oil-free La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is perfect for oily and combination skin. Fragrance-free doesn’t have to mean unscented. As you switch to products without artificial fragrances, you will develop an appreciation for the mild natural scent of natural ingredients. Over time, you might start finding synthetic fragrances strong and overpowering. Let our list of the top 13 best fragrance-free face washes in 2024 be your ultimate guide to skin that is dewy, clean, and radiant so that you can step out of your skin care regime with confidence that you’re indulging in conscious, sustainable beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you use fragrance-free face wash?
Use fragrance-free face wash twice daily for optimal results.
What is the best face wash for sensitive acne-prone skin?
The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser effectively treats sensitive skin with acne breakouts.
Does a fragrance-free face wash help with dark spots?
Yes, some fragrance-free face washes like the Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash can effectively exfoliate your skin, unclog dirty pores, and nourish the skin, which helps in fading dark spots.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author of this article, has a deep passion for skin care. Not everyone loves a fragrant face wash, and sometimes, artificial fragrance can be rather harmful to the skin. Which is why she recommends using the best fragrance-free face washes. She spent a lot of time researching and studying multiple face washes and their reviews before narrowing down these ones. She chose these products based on their ingredients, formula, skin-friendliness, skin benefits, and more.
Read full bio of Richard Mears
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