10Best.Guide

Face Cleanser

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid
  • Good for sensitive skin
  • Good value for the price
  • Great lather
Cons
  • Not effective for hormonal acne
  • May not be suitable for Lupus patients
Bottom Line
CeraVe facial cleansers are a good choice for those with sensitive skin who want a non-comedogenic, gentle cleanser that doesn't leave residue. It may not be effective for treating acne or deep cleansing extremely oily skin.
Pros
  • Helps with psoriatic arthritis impacted skin.
  • Good for acne-prone skin.
  • Great for sensitive and dry skin.
  • Reduces redness.
  • Gentle cleanser for dry skin.
Cons
  • Dries out skin.
  • Not the best for makeup removal.
Bottom Line
This product is great for those with sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin. It helps with psoriatic arthritis impacted skin and reduces redness. However, it may not be the best for makeup removal and may dry out some skin types.
Pros
  • Effective for reducing acne in the long run
  • Gentle exfoliant for sensitive skin
  • Good for dry, sensitive skin
  • A little goes a long way
  • Helps clear up normal, hormonal, cystic, and back acne
Cons
  • Not effective for severe acne
  • Drying effect on skin
Bottom Line
CeraVe SA Cleanser is a good option for those with normal, hormonal, cystic, and back acne. It is gentle for sensitive skin and effective in reducing acne in the long run. However, it may not be effective for severe acne and can be drying for some skin types. The pump can also be faulty, and it stings when it gets into the eyes.
Pros
  • Effective for anti-aging and preventing wrinkles.
  • Gentle and pH balanced formula.
  • Works well for sensitive skin and redness.
  • Removes makeup with a small amount of product.
  • Leaves skin smooth and radiant.
Cons
  • Strong and unpleasant smell.
  • May cause eye irritation.
Bottom Line
Obagi Gentle Cleanser is an effective and gentle product for anti-aging and sensitive skin. However, it has a strong smell and may cause eye irritation. It is also expensive compared to other brands.
Pros
  • Great for sensitive acne-prone skin
  • Lightweight and moisturizing
  • Cleanses well without irritating skin
  • Removes makeup effectively
  • Soothes skin and reduces inflammation
Cons
  • May cause dryness and irritation for some
  • Inconsistent formula between different purchases
Bottom Line
This cleanser is a great option for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin. It effectively cleanses and moisturizes without causing irritation or dryness. However, some users may experience inconsistencies in the formula and an odd smell.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Face Cleanser for Your Skin Type

Overview

A good face cleanser is an essential part of any skincare routine. It helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin, unclog pores, and prevent breakouts. With so many different types of face cleansers available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your skin type. In this buying guide, we'll explore the different types of face cleansers, key considerations when choosing a cleanser, features to look for, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

1. Foaming Cleansers: Foaming cleansers are great for oily skin types as they help to remove excess oil and unclog pores. They usually contain ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide to help treat acne.

2. Cream Cleansers: Cream cleansers are ideal for dry or sensitive skin types as they are gentle and hydrating. They usually contain ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera to soothe and moisturize the skin.

3. Gel Cleansers: Gel cleansers work well for combination skin types as they are lightweight and effective at removing impurities without stripping the skin. They often contain ingredients like tea tree oil, witch hazel, and charcoal to balance the skin.

4. Oil Cleansers: Oil cleansers are great for all skin types, including oily skin. They work by dissolving makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. They often contain ingredients like jojoba oil, argan oil, and grapeseed oil to nourish and hydrate the skin.

5. Micellar Water: Micellar water is a gentle and effective cleanser that is suitable for all skin types. It contains tiny micelles that attract dirt and oil, leaving the skin clean and refreshed.

Key Considerations

1. Skin Type: Consider your skin type when choosing a face cleanser. If you have oily skin, a foaming cleanser may be best, while dry skin types may benefit from a cream cleanser.

2. Ingredients: Look for cleansers that contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea, or chemical ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, depending on your skin type and concerns.

3. pH Balance: Choose a cleanser that is pH balanced to help maintain the skin's natural barrier and prevent irritation.

4. Double Cleansing: Consider double cleansing if you wear makeup or sunscreen. Double cleansing involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to thoroughly remove all impurities.

Features

1. Hydrating: Look for cleansers that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to keep your skin moisturized.

2. Exfoliating: Some cleansers contain exfoliating ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.

3. Anti-Aging: Look for cleansers that contain antioxidants like vitamin C and E to help protect the skin from free radical damage and promote collagen production.

4. Sensitive Skin: Choose a gentle cleanser that is free from harsh chemicals and fragrances if you have sensitive skin.

Prices

Face cleansers can range from affordable drugstore options to luxury high-end brands. Prices can range from $5 to $100 or more, depending on the brand and ingredients.

Tips

1. Always remove your makeup before using a face cleanser.

2. Use lukewarm water to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils.

3. Use a gentle, circular motion when cleansing your face.

4. Don't over-cleanse, as this can lead to dryness and irritation.

FAQs

Q: How often should I use a face cleanser?

A: - It's recommended to use a face cleanser twice a day, in the morning and evening.

Q: Can I use the same cleanser for morning and night?

A: - Yes, you can use the same cleanser for morning and night, as long as it is suitable for your skin type.

Q: Can I use a face cleanser if I have acne?

A: - Yes, look for a cleanser that contains ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide to help treat acne.

Q: Can I use micellar water as a cleanser?

A: - Yes, micellar water is a gentle and effective cleanser that is suitable for all skin types.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Concentrated formula lasts a long time
  • Refreshing scent
  • Helps with acne
  • Doesn't dry out skin
  • Improves skin quality
Cons
  • Overpowering scent
  • May cause breakouts
Bottom Line
This product is a good option for those with oily skin who want a cleanser that thoroughly cleans pores and removes makeup without drying out the skin. However, it may not be suitable for those with dry skin or sensitivity to synthetic fragrance.
Pros
  • Affordable price.
  • Clears acne and dead skin.
  • Controls oil and repairs skin eruptions.
  • Keeps anxiety acne away.
  • Makes skin feel soft and eliminates oil.
Cons
  • Can dry out skin.
  • Poor packaging, prone to leakage.
Bottom Line
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash is an affordable and effective face wash for acne-prone skin. It controls oil and clears acne and dead skin. However, it may dry out skin and has poor packaging. It is important to moisturize after use and be aware of potential allergic reactions.
Pros
  • Creamy and gentle on the skin
  • Foams a little and leaves skin feeling good
  • Fragrance-free
  • Good for sensitive skin
  • Leaves skin feeling clean and smooth
Cons
  • Strong fragrance
  • Dries out skin
Bottom Line
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is a good option for those with sensitive or oily skin who are looking for a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser that leaves skin feeling clean and smooth. However, the new formula may not be as good as the old one, and it may not be very moisturizing for some users.
Pros
  • Cleanses well without causing purging or drying the skin.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Good for oily skin without drying it out.
  • Affordable price.
  • Unscented.
Cons
  • May cause an allergic reaction in some people.
  • Disappointing for some users.
Bottom Line
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Wash is a gentle and effective cleanser suitable for sensitive, oily, and dry/combination skin. It cleanses well without causing purging or drying the skin, and it is affordable and unscented. However, it may cause an allergic reaction in some people, and it may be disappointing for some users.
Pros
  • Gentle on skin
  • Good for sensitive skin
  • Leaves skin feeling clean and fresh
  • Doesn't cause breakouts
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Can leave skin feeling dry
  • Doesn't remove all makeup
Bottom Line
Olay Cleanse is a gentle and affordable face wash that is good for sensitive skin, but may leave skin feeling dry and struggle to remove all makeup. The thick consistency can be difficult to dispense and the pump can be hard to use.
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