Fact Checked
By Jenn Sinrich
Facial cleanser is an important part of a skincare routine because it helps to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin. These impurities can accumulate on the skin throughout the day, clog pores, and lead to breakouts or other skin issues. Using best facial cleanser can help to keep the skin clean and healthy, and can also prepare the skin for the application of other skincare products such as moisturizers or serums.
How To Choose Best Facial Cleansers?
Skin type
Ingredients
Look for a cleanser with ingredients that are effective for your skin concerns, such as salicylic acid for acne-prone skin, glycolic acid for anti-aging, or hyaluronic acid for hydration. Avoid ingredients that can be harsh or irritating, such as alcohol, fragrance, or sulfates.
Cleansing Power
pH Balance
Brand Reputation
Test it out
By considering these factors when choosing a facial cleanser, you can find a product that effectively cleanses your skin and supports its overall health and appearance.
Our Methodology: How We Choose Best Face Cleansers?
The Beauty Insiders research team conduct rigorous tests on face cleanser and exfoliators, utilizing technical instruments in the lab and enlisting consumer testers with diverse skin types. To identify the top-performing face cleanser across various price points, the dermatologists initially pre-screen the products by examining their ability to remove full-coverage foundation, which serves as a proxy for evaluating their deep-cleansing efficacy.
After masking the products, our team distributes them to a large group of testers who incorporate them into their regular skincare routine. The testers provide comprehensive feedback on various aspects of the cleanser, including their ease of use (scent, cleanliness, irritation, level of exfoliation) and effectiveness in eliminating dirt, oil, and impurities, as well as making the skin feel smoother, softer, and brighter, while minimizing the appearance of pores.
Quick View – Best Facial Cleansers (Our Top Picks)
Best Cleanser for Face
Beverely Hills Md Refresh + Renew Cleansing Gel
Best Face Cleansers that will rule 2024
This is a gentle yet effective cleanser that helps to remove impurities and makeup while leaving the skin feeling refreshed and renewed. It contains a blend of natural ingredients like chamomile and green tea extract to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
Brand: Beverely Hills Md | Key Ingredients: Alpha-Hydroxy Acid, Niacinamide, Licorice Root Extract | Size: 6 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Type
Green Signal
- Helps Hold in Moisture
- Improves Skin Complexion
- Rejuvenates Skin’s Appearance
Red Flag
- Only Available Online
A mild yet powerful cleanser that is ideal for daily usage is DRMTLGY Essential Cleanser. The mild surfactants in this non-foaming cleanser are designed to remove dirl, oil, and pollutants from your skin without removing any of its natural oils. It is perfect for those with sensitive skin since it contains chamomile and aloe vera extracts, which assist to calm and soothe inflamed skin. It is ideal for all skin types because to its fragrance-free recipe. DRMTLGY Essential Cleanser is the perfect cleanser to your skincare regimen, whether your goal is to cleanse your skin or remove makeup.
Brand: DRMTLGY | Key Ingredients: Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate | Size: 7 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Removes Dirt, Oil, and Impurities
- Soothe and Calm Irritated Skin
- Eliminates the Risk of Skin Irritation Caused by Fragrances
Red Flag
- It’s a Non-Foaming Formula
Drmtlgy Acne Cleanser is a powerful yet gentle cleanser designed specifically to tackle acne-prone skin. With a unique blend of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid, this cleanser effectively unclogs pores and removes dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean. Its non-drying formula ensures that your skin stays hydrated, making it suitable for daily use. The addition of tea tree oil provides an extra layer of protection against acne-causing bacteria, making it a must-have for anyone struggling with acne.
Brand: DRMTLGY | Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, Green Tea Extract | Size: 6 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Type
Green Signal
- Removes Acne Blemishes & Scars
- Reduces the Appearance of Acne Scars
- Unclogs Pores and Removes Dead Skin Cells
Red Flag
- Limited Availability
This mild, non-irritating cleanser is designed to remove impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It is formulated with soothing botanical extracts like orange oil and cucumber extract to calm and hydrate the skin.
Brand: Skinceuticals | Key Ingredients: Orange Peel Oil, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid | Size: 6.8 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination Skin
Green Signal
- Softens Skin While Cleansing
- Removes Long-Wear Makeup
- Can Help with Reducing Breakouts
Red Flag
- It Has Fragrance
This gel cleanser is formulated to remove excess oil, makeup, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. It contains a blend of hydroxy acids, botanical extracts, and chamomile to help soothe and clarify the skin.
Brand: Skinceuticals | Key Ingredients: Fruit acid blend, Botanical extracts, Chamomile | Size: 6.7 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Oily, Combination Skin
Green Signal
- Gently Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells
- Removes Waterproof Makeup Too
- Soothes & Improves Skin Texture
Red Flag
- May Irritate Sensitive Skin
The Skinceuticals Lha Cleansing Gel is a gel-based cleanser that contains lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) to help exfoliate and refine the skin’s texture. This cleanser is ideal for oily or acne-prone skin and helps to unclog pores and control oil production.
Brand: Skinceuticals | Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Glycolic acid, LHA | Size: 8.1 Fl oz | Skin Type : Oily, Combination Skin
Green Signal
- Address Breakouts
- Delivers Even Exfoliation
- Removes Excess Oils and Makeup
Red Flag
- Doesn’t Suit Dry Skin
This gentle cleanser uses enzymes to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and brighter. It also contains vitamin C to help brighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Brand: Dr. Barbara Sturm | Key Ingredients: Enzyme Subtilisin, Enzyme Lipase, Ascorbic Acid | Size: 2.6 Oz | Skin Type : Normal, Combination, and Oily
Green Signal
- Hydrates and Refreshes the Skin
- Reduces Excess Sebum/oil
- Removes Dry and Rough Skin Cells
Red Flag
- It’s Expensive
This luxurious cleansing balm is designed to dissolve makeup and impurities while nourishing the skin with essential oils like rosehip and chamomile. It also contains padina pavonica, a marine extract that helps to firm and tone the skin.
Brand: Elemis | Key Ingredients: Sweet Almond Oil, Elderberry Oil, Padina Pavonica | Size: 3.5 oz | Skin Type : Normal, & Dry Skin
Green Signal
- Removes Makeup as a Cleansing Oil
- Hydrates as a Cleansing Milk
- Nourishes & Improves Skin Texture
Red Flag
- It Contain Fragrance
This cleanser uses gentle exfoliating beads to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving the skin smoother and more radiant. It also contains glycerin and aloe vera to hydrate and soothe the skin.
Brand: Obagi | Key Ingredients: Linked Papain, Sodium Hyaluronate | Size: 5.1 Fl oz | Skin Type : Oily Skin
Green Signal
- Helps Exfoliate Dull Skin
- Unclog Pores
- Smoothens Complexion
Red Flag
- Doesn’t Suit Any Other Skin Type
Best Hydrating Cleanser
Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser
Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser is a gentle yet effective cleanser that helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while leaving the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. This formula is fragrance-free and contains a blend of natural oils to help nourish and soothe the skin.
Brand: Philosophy | Key Ingredients: Meadowfoam Seed Oil | Size: 8 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal Skin
Green Signal
- Melts Away Dirt, Oil and Makeup
- Lightly Hydrates Skin
- Deep-Cleans Pores
Red Flag
- Won’t Suit Dry Skin
Tatcha the Rice Wash is a gentle facial cleanser that contains Japanese rice powder to help exfoliate and brighten the skin. The creamy, non-stripping formula helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed.
Brand: Tatcha | Key Ingredients: Blend of Japanese Algae, Hyaluronic Acid, Hadasei-3 | Size: 4 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Dry, and Combination Skin
Green Signal
- Boost Skin’s Hydration
- Improves Skin Complexion
- Washes Away Daily Buildup
Red Flag
- Doesn’t Suit Sensitive Skin
The Kale Superfood Cleanser is a vegan and natural face wash that features kale, spinach, and green tea to detoxify and nourish the skin. This nutrient-rich cleanser helps to remove impurities and leave the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Brand: Youth To The People | Key Ingredients: Kale, Spinach, Green Tea | Size: 8 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Dry, Combination, and Oily
Green Signal
- Deeply Cleanses Skin
- Removes Acne Blemishes
- Clears Clogged Pores
Red Flag
- May Cause Breakouts
The Tula Purifying Face Cleanser is a probiotic-based cleanser that helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while balancing the skin’s microbiome. This gentle yet effective cleanser leaves the skin feeling clean and nourished.
Brand: Tula Skincare | Key Ingredients: Probiotic Extracts, Chicory Root, Turmeric, White Tea & Blueberry | Size: 6.7 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Dry & Combination Skin
Green Signal
- Boosts Skin Overall Radiance
- Helps Maintain Skin Balance
- Removes Dirt, Impurities & Makeup
Red Flag
- May Breakout Your Sensitive Skin
The Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser is a sulfate-free cleanser that contains blueberry extract to help brighten the skin. The bouncy, gel-like texture helps to remove impurities and leave the skin feeling soft and supple.
Brand: The Glow Recipe | Key Ingredients: Blueberry Extract, Hyaluronic Acid & AHA | Size: 5.4 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Combination, and Oily
Green Signal
- Combats Blemishes and Breakouts
- Hydrates the Skin Intensely
- Improves the Look of Pores
Red Flag
- Won’t Suit Dry Skin
The Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm is a luxurious, oil-based cleanser that helps to remove makeup and impurities while nourishing the skin. This balm-to-oil formula contains nourishing ingredients like seaberry and grape seed oil to leave the skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Brand: Then I Met You | Key Ingredients: Sea Buckthorn Oil, Persimmon Extract, Vitamin E | Size: 3.17 oz | Skin Type : Normal Skin
Green Signal
- Removes Oil-Based Impurities
- Prevents Premature Aging
- Nourishes the Skin Intensely
Red Flag
- It’s Not Ideal for Sensitive Skin
The Fresh Soy Face Cleanser is a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that contains soy proteins to help nourish and soothe the skin. This cult-favorite cleanser helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while leaving the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated.
Brand: Fresh | Key Ingredients: Soy Proteins, Aloe Vera, Cucumber Extract | Size: 1.7 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Dry, Combination, and Oily Skin
Green Signal
- Increases Hydration
- Removes Makeup
- Deeply Cleanses Pores
Red Flag
- It Doesn’t Suit Acne-Prone Skin
The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gentle yet effective cleanser that helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This foaming cleanser is ideal for normal to oily skin types and helps to leave the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Brand: EltaMD | Key Ingredients: Bromelain | Size: 7 fL oz | Skin Type : Normal To Oily Skin
Green Signal
- Balances Skin’s Natural PH
- Helps Reduce Inflammation
- Intensely Cleanses Impurities
Red Flag
- Makes Your Skin Dry
The First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser is a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that contains aloe vera and allantoin to soothe and calm the skin. This non-stripping formula helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while leaving the skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Brand: First Aid Beauty | Key Ingredients: Aloe, Allantoin, Glycerin | Size: 5 oz | Skin Type : Normal, Combination, Oily Skin
Green Signal
- Deeply Cleanses Skin
- Helps Calm and Soothe Skin
- Hydrates Skin’s Appearance
Red Flag
- Doesn’t Suit Dry Skin
The Is Clinical Cleansing Complex is a multi-purpose cleanser that helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while gently exfoliating the skin. This formula contains a blend of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and antioxidants to help improve the skin’s texture and tone.
Brand: is Clinical | Key Ingredients: Centella Asiatica, Chamomile Flower, Sugarcane, White Willow Bark | Size: 6 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal Skin
Green Signal
- Deep-Cleanses Skin
- Smooths and Softens
- Evens Out Blemishes
Red Flag
- May Dry Out Combination Skin
The Bioderma Sensibio H2o is a gentle, no-rinse micellar water that helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while soothing and calming the skin. This fragrance-free formula is ideal for sensitive skin types and helps to leave the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Brand: Bioderma | Key Ingredients: Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Rhamnose | Size: 16.7 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal Skin
Green Signal
- Tightens the Pores
- Removes Makeup
- Smoothens Skin Texture
Red Flag
- Not Suitable for Sensitive Skin
This cleanser is designed to cleanse and hydrate the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help maintain the skin’s protective barrier.
Brand: Cerave | Key Ingredients: Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide, Glycerin | Size: 19 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal-To-Dry Skin
Green Signal
- Gently Removes Dirt, Oil and Makeup
- Maintains the Skin’s Natural Barrier
- Helps Retain the Skin’s Natural Moisture
Red Flag
- Not Suitable for Sensitive Skin
Best Cleanser for Skin
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
This gentle cleanser is formulated for sensitive skin and effectively removes impurities without causing irritation. It contains ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin to soothe and hydrate the skin.
Brand: La Roche-Posay | Key Ingredients: Ceramide-3, Glycerin, Niacinamide | Size: 13.5 oz | Skin Type : Normal to Dry Skin
Green Signal
- Retains Essential Moisture
- Cleanses Dirt & Makeup
- Hydrates Skin Intensely
Red Flag
- Doesn’t Go Well with Sensitive Skin
This non-irritating cleanser is free of fragrance, sulfates, and other harsh ingredients. It is formulated for sensitive skin and helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without drying out the skin.
Brand: Vanicream | Key Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Glycerin | Size: 8 Fl oz | Skin Type : Sensitive Skin
Green Signal
- Remove Makeup and Excess Skin Oils
- Cleanses Face Gently
- Smoothens Out Skin Texture
Red Flag
- It Has Fragrance
This foaming wash contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, which effectively targets and clears acne. It is formulated to penetrate deep into the pores to unclog them and prevent future breakouts.
Brand: Panoxyl | Key Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide (10%) | Size: 5.5 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal, Combination, Acne-prone Skin
Green Signal
- Clears Acne Marks & Blemishes
- Treat Acne on Face & Body
- Prevents New Breakouts
Red Flag
- It Smells Weird
This mild cleanser is gentle enough for daily use and effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural oils. It is recommended for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Brand: Cetaphil | Key Ingredients: Panthenol, Niacinamide, Glycerin | Size: 20 Fl oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Protect Against Dryness
- Boost Skin’s Moisture
- Removes Dirt, Makeup & Impurities
Red Flag
- May Cause Redness
This all-in-one cleanser removes dirt, oil, and makeup without harsh rubbing or rinsing. It is infused with micelles that attract and trap impurities, leaving the skin clean and refreshed.
Brand: Garnier | Key Ingredients: Glycerin | Size: 13.5 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal Skin
Green Signal
- Cleanses Dirt & Impurities
- Removes Makeup
- Refreshes Skin
Red Flag
- It’s Extremely Basic Cleanser
This foaming cleanser contains salicylic acid, which helps to clear and prevent acne breakouts. It also contains soy extract to even out skin tone and texture.
Brand: Aveeno | Key Ingredients: Soy Extract | Size: 6 Fl oz | Skin Type : Acne-prone Skin
Green Signal
- Gently Cleanses Skin
- Visibly Enhances Skin Texture
- Improves Skin’s Tone & Texture
Red Flag
- Packaging Needs Improvement
This mild cleanser is gentle enough for daily use and effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural oils. It is recommended for normal to oily skin types.
Brand: Cetaphil | Key Ingredients: Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5 | Size: 16 Fl oz | Skin Type : Combination to Oily Skin
Green Signal
- Minimizes the Appearance of Pores
- Deeply Cleanses Skin
- Keeps Skin Hydrated
Red Flag
- It Has Fragrance
This exfoliating cleanser contains glycolic acid, which helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. It is recommended for normal to oily skin types and can help improve the texture and tone of the skin.
Brand: Glytone | Key Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Glycerin | Size: 6.7 Fl oz | Skin Type : Normal to Oily Skin
Green Signal
- Gently Exfoliates Skin
- Removes Surface Debris
- Retains Face Moisture
Red Flag
- May Cause Breakouts
How do cleansers work?
Cleansers are pretty similar to regular face washes, but for the mechanism of action. Because they are oil-based, these skincare products dissolve away excess oil, makeup, dirt, and grime from your skin.
Unlike washes, cleansers are not meant for taking out deep-seated grip, oil, and debris for instance from the skin pores.
The direction for using a top cleanser is pretty direct.
- Take a small amount of your top cleanser and smear on the face.
- Spread evenly then massage continually around the face and neck.
- After a while, rinse the face with lukewarm water then dry with a towel.
The effectiveness of your particular brand of top cleanser depends on the ingredients infused inside the formula. Herein, we’ve highlighted some top-tier ingredients you might want to check out before buying top cleansers.
The Common ingredients to Look for in top Cleansers
Salicylic acid
A common ingredient used mostly in facial cleansers for acne. It is allowed in concentrations of up to 2%. Salicylic acid dissolves grime and dirt thus improving skin texture and tone. However, because of the strong dehydration effect, salicylic acid products should be used together with a moisturizer. It’s also used as a peeling agent, to treat acne (source).
Glycolic acid
An alpha hydroxy acid used to enhance cell regeneration. Glycolic acid promotes skin cell turn over by enhancing the removal of dead cells. It is also known to improve the synthesis of collagen and elastin for firm and glossy skin.
Allantoin
It is used in concentrations of between 0.5% and 2.0%. Allantoin is a potent moisturizer, thus helping prevent flakiness, dryness, and general skin inflammation. It is also called glyoxyldiureide or 5-ureidohydantoin. Research shows that this is an effective anti-aging agent for smoothing out lines and wrinkles, as well as moisturizing the skin.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Also known as the foaming ingredient, Sodium Laureth Sulfate acts as a detergent. Furthermore, it also has some surfactant properties. The ingredient does a good job dissolving and removing oil, dirt, and other debris from the skin surface.
Propylene glycol
A potent moisturizer. It is used in facial cleansers to improve skin hydration. It is also said to have some antibiotic properties and thus may eradicate some bacteria from the skin pores and surface. It’s perfectly safe to use on the skin for cosmetic reasons.
The Benefits of using Cleansers
Cleansers provide an excellent way to slough off dead cells from the skin surface. That comes with the advantage of improved skin aeration, texture, and even tone.
These products also lock in skin moisture. That makes the skin firm, plumb, and flexible. Improved skin hydration also eliminates aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.
Cleansers can be used to manage acne and other related skin conditions. By removing dead cells and unclogging pores, bacteria have no breeding ground, hence no whiteheads or blackheads.
Which cleanser is best for you?
Choosing the best top cleanser isn’t easy, especially now that there are as many brands as there are faces to be cleaned. It takes the experience of an expert to find what suits you best.
You’ve got to pay attention to the product specs before purchase. Here are a few tips to help the best top cleanser.
If you have sensitive skin, you might want to go slow on “nourishing” and too stripping cleansers. These types may seem quite the recipe for smooth and glowing skin.
In truth, however, they do more harm than good. Also, included in that category are sulfate-based cleansers.
That said, here are some must-have facial cleansers you may want to consider the next time you go shopping.
Makeup-removing cleansers are a good choice. In this category, micellar cleansers, and cleansing waters are worth checking out.
Dr. Desiree Ratner, MD, NYU Langone Tisch Hospital says, “Cleansers for removing makeups are among the most popular. However, some ladies just don’t seem to know which one is best for their type of skin.”
When you want to give your skin a thorough wash, deep cleansers are definitely the way to go. They penetrate much deeper to remove clogs, oil, dirt, and skin dead cells. Be sure to have one of these in your collection of top cleansers.
If you have a normal-oil skin, here are some cleansers you may want to consider; gels, foams, bars, and oils. These facial cleansers also work for sensitive oily skin.
On the other hand, those with normal, dry, and sensitive skin may want to try out the following top cleansers; creams, lotions, facial milk, hydrating foams, oils, and cleansing waters.
FAQ’s
Q.When to Use Facial Cleanser?
A. Facial cleanser is used to remove dirt and impurities from the skin. It should be used twice a day, in the morning and at night, for best results. Use it before applying makeup or after sweating/exercising.
Q.How Often Should You Use Facial Cleanser?
A. Facial cleanser should be used twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, for best results. Over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness or irritation, so it’s important not to use it excessively.
Q.Does Facial Cleanser Get Rid of Acne?
A. Facial cleanser can help reduce acne by removing excess oil and impurities that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. However, it may not be enough on its own to completely get rid of acne, and other treatments may be necessary depending on the severity of the acne.
Q.When Is the Best Time to Wash Your Face?
A. The best time to wash your face is in the morning and at night, before bed. This helps remove dirt, oil, and other impurities that can accumulate on your skin throughout the day or while you sleep. Additionally, it’s important to wash your face after sweating or exercising to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
Final Verdict – Best Face Cleansers 2024
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best face cleanser, as everyone’s skin type and concerns are unique. However, some popular options include cleansers containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for acne-prone skin, gentle and hydrating cleansers for dry or sensitive skin, and oil-based cleansers for those with oily or combination skin. It’s important to choose a cleanser that works for your skin type and concerns, and to follow a consistent skincare routine for best results. Consulting with a dermatologist can also be helpful in selecting the best face cleanser for your specific needs.
Why Should You Trust Us?
Our experts have thoroughly investigated every detail of each product for a week or more and have determined that they pass safety checks. This ensures that the products we recommend are the best for addressing your skincare concerns.
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