Best Exfoliator: Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Daily Scrub
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Eye area must be avoided
A physical exfoliating face wash like this one from Aveeno is great for teens because its gentle enough for everyday use, yet tough enough to scrub away dirt, oil, and acne-causing bacteria.
Its made with moisture-rich soy extract, naturally derived granules, and jojoba and castor oils. Its soap-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. Thousands of reviewers agreeAveenos Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Scrub will reveal softer, brighter skin and wont break the bank.
Price at time of publish: $8
What To Avoid In A Face Cleanser
In addition to steering clear of harsh soaps, look for a cleanser that is free of fragrance, chemicals, or alcohol. Avoid antibacterial soaps, which can be drying. Ask your doctor whether you should use or avoid cleansers with exfoliants such as glycolic acid. Different types of cleansers may work for different people.
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
If you’ve ever visited your dermatologist to complain about breakouts, they’ve probably given you a sample of Cetaphil. It’s recommended by experts because it’s incredibly gentle and versatile, and appropriate for your face or body. As Dr. Engelman explains, it works by one molecule binding to the oil and the other binding to the water, so it removes impurities but does not strip your skin of oils. As a bonus? It’s also lipid-, soap-, and fragrance-free.
To buy: $8 target.com
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Dna Renewal’s Foaming Gel Cleanser
Without realizing it, many people are allergic to fragrances, causing unexplainable breakouts, bumps, and rashes. These unfamiliar dyes and scents could be the cause of your sensitive skin symptoms. With this gel face cleanser, you won’t have to worry since it uses a non-irritating version of glycolic acid to gently cleanse your skin and remove dead skin. Formulated by a dermatologist, you can use it twice a day for best results.
To buy: $28 dermstore.com
Dove Beauty Bar For Sensitive Skin

| Beauty Bar for Sensitive Skin.
You might be thinking no soap! whats that doing here? but Doves beauty bars arent soap. This one particularly is a fragrance free, hypoallergenic formula thats dermatologically tested to be perfect for sensitive skin routines. Unlike many face cleansers, this bar is suitable for daily use not just on the face, but also on your hands and body, making for an excellent all-round wash.
The formula of this beauty bar contains ¼ moisturising cream and mild cleansers to help protect skins moisture, as dirt and impurities are gently washed away. Skin is not dried out like you might expect from a bar, instead it is left softer, smoother, and healthier than before.
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St Botanica Vitamin C Gentle Foaming Brightening Face Wash
Product Claims
St. Botanica Vitamin C Gentle Foaming Brightening Face Wash is rich in antioxidants. It is formulated with aloe vera juice and cypress oil. Vitamin C protects the skin from free radical damage and gently removes dirt and impurities. It restores the natural glow of the skin and boosts collagen production to make it look plump, youthful, and healthier. Cypress oil and aloe vera juice hydrate, moisturize, and soothe irritated skin. This foaming formula is perfect for sensitive, oily, dry, combination, and acne-prone skin. It rejuvenates the skin and leaves it feeling refreshed, soft, and nourished.
Pros
Now that you know which are the best cleansers for sensitive skin, let us guide you through some vital points to consider before buying one.
Best Overall: Cerave Hydrating Cream
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Has not been tested in sensitive eye area
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Does not treat acne
We named CeraVe Cream-to-Foam Cleanser our top pick because its specially designed for all skin types and wont irritate the skin. The wash starts as a cream to remove dirt, oil, and makeup, and then turns into a foam as you wash. In short, its a one-step makeup remover and face wash thats effective, affordable, and wont dry out delicate skin.
The cleansers active ingredients include hyaluronic acid for hydration, plus ceramides and amino acids complex to protect your skins moisture barrier and pH balance. It doesnt contain soap or fragrance and is non-comedogenic. Teens, tweens, and adults alike will love it.
Price at time of publish: $18
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Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser
Paula’s Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paulas Choice Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser
This cream cleanser is one of the best Paulas Choice cleansers for dry and sensitive skin, as it is super gentle on the skin, and softens and hydrates.
Those with sensitive skin need a cleanser that wont cause any irritation. This hydrating cream cleanser was formulated with sensitive skin in mind, and is even suitable for those with eczema.
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
This creamy cleanser was formulated with hydrating and soothing skincare ingredients, including soja oil and matricaria flower extract.
Water , Hydrogenated Polydecene , Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate , Glycine Soja Oil , C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate , Polysorbate 80 , Laureth-4 , Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer , Cocamidopropyl Betaine , Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Flower Extract, Beta-Glucan , Mineral Oil , PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate , Butylene Glycol , Disodium EDTA , Sodium Hydroxide , Hexylene Glycol , Caprylyl Glycol , Ethylhexylglycerin , Phenoxyethanol , Chlorphenesin .
If You Have Oily Skin And Think Applying A Liquid Would Be The Next Worst Thing Farmacy’s Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser Is Just The Right Product That’s Oil
Key ingredients: Beta hydroxy, glycerin, moringa seed extract, moringa water, papaya enzyme, green clay, sodium PCA
The Farmacy Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser is wonderful for oily skin and not just because it’s oil-free â it’s also soap-free, super creamy, and uniquely contains moringa seed extract and moringa water to purify and refresh the skin from debris.
Aside from moringa, you’ll notice the papaya enzyme and green clay ingredients that help detox, absorb surface oil, exfoliate, clean pores, and remove buildup. Sodium PCA also aids in maintaining skin hydration.
“For oily skin, I recommend using a face wash with beta hydroxy acid because they reduce oil production by working on the skin’s surface to penetrate deep into pores,” Dr. Peredo said. “You can also use exfoliating cleansers to reduce oil.”
Even if you don’t have oily skin, this cleanser is great to use after a long day outside. It’s also cruelty-free, gluten-free, and comes in recyclable packaging.
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Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Were continuing with products that are no-frills! Up next is the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. This cleanser has a unique texture, almost like youre putting on a moisturizer, its gentle and smooth as you rub it on your face.
It is also fragrance-free which we know is a must for sensitive skin! This cleanser is not stripping on the face but will still cleanse the dirt away from your face. It will leave your skin clean and nourished.
Its ingredients include ceramides which act as glue to hold the skin cells together and protect them against environmental factors. There is also hyaluronic acid which hydrates and nourishes.
You will love the affordability and simplicity of the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. As mentioned before, often the most basic skincare products are the most effective, especially for sensitive skin.
If youre worried about the ingredients, compared to Cetaphil, this doesnt have SLS, which is also a plus! Another advantage that the CeaVe cleanser has is that its extremely hydrating and ideal for dry skin.
Dermatologist approved and gentle ingredients are two things that SkinCeuticals stand by when it comes to their skincare products. They take skincare to the next level with their extensive research on ingredients that will not be harsh on the skin.
The SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser is everything! Appropriately formulated for sensitive skin with potent and gentle cleansing properties.
The Best Way To Wash Your Face According To Dermatologists
Select is editorially independent. Our editors selected these deals and items because we think you will enjoy them at these prices. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn a commission. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.
I dont remember the exact moment it happened, but at some point in my adult life the once simple step in my skincare routine of washing my face became not so simple. For years, I would just throw water on it, dab it off with a hand towel and think nothing of it.
Now, in my mid-30s, washing my face is something akin to a spiritual practice. I have extremely serious opinions about how my precious countenance needs to be cleansed . On the occasion that my face washing regimen is thwarted, I become deeply upset. For instance, this past weekend I realized I forgot my bursting satchel of skincare products at home while on an overnight trip and realized I would have to wash to either wash my face with just plain water or whats worse, use the hotel bar hand soap .
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An Enzyme Powder Cleanser That Exfoliates Sensitive Skin Without Irritation
Most cleansers contain preservatives and stabilizing ingredients to keep them from spoiling, and that’s because they also contain water. The presence of water creates an environment where bacteria can easily grow, if there isn’t something in the formula to slow that process. But because powder cleansers like this one that’s made from corn and rice bran don’t contain any water, they also contain far fewer potentially irritating preservatives.
Once the powder comes in contact with your damp palms, it turns into a light foam that’s easy to handle. The slightly grainy texture and papaya extract in the formula work together to gently exfoliate sensitive skin without the irritation that often comes with using a scrub. And, you can even control the level of exfoliation by adjusting the amount of water you mix in.
Helpful review:“I absolutely love this face wash! I have sensitive, oily, acne-prone skin and this is so gentle on my skin that I use it every night. It’s not overly moisturizing for my oily face but still leaves it squeaky clean. This product has definitely helped keep my breakouts under control ever since I included it into my skincare routine. I’m definitely going to buy it again!”
Indie Lee Rosehip Cleanser

Indie Lee is a clean skincare brand that was founded by, you guessed it, Indie Lee, and she has a beautiful story. She has a unique lifestyle where she grows her own produce which is all organic and wholesome.
Back in 2009, she was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour. And when she asked her doctor what could have caused it, her doctors immediate reply was What do you put on your skin? Thats when she made it a mission to create a brand that is guaranteed to nourish and be safe for everyones skincare needs.
The Indie Lee Rosehip Cleanser has some lovely ingredients with its key ingredient being Rosehip Seed Oil. This helps to calm redness, including for those who suffer from rosacea. It also contains Red Seaweed extracts and Vitamins A, C and E. These ingredients leave skin calm, nourished and protected.
This cleanser has a gentle formulation that will leave your skin cleansed and moisturized. Its perfect for sensitive skin as the ingredients are all gentle and natural.
Great for both day and night, it cleanses your skin and rinses away makeup that you wore throughout the day. Using it in the morning is one of the best ways to start your day!
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Eve Lom Gel Balm Cleanser
Best Cleansing Gel for Dry Skin
Crafted with ingredients like shea butter and grapeseed oil, the Eve Lom Gel Balm cleanser moisturizes skin for up to 12 hours. It also contains chamomile oil and eucalyptus to help dissolve makeup and debris. Plus, its gel texture feels so cooling against the skin, making the cleansing step of your skin-care routine a true sensory experience. Not to mention, it has the most lovely scent.
How To Choose A Sulfate
As sulfate is an irritant and also a common allergen, it is important to be aware of the best sulfate-free facial washes and cleansers available in the market.
What To Keep In Mind When Buying A Sulfate-free Facial Cleanser
- Know your skin type
Identify whether your skin type is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive to determine which cleanser or wash may best suit you. If you have sensitive skin and are prone to acne, you may want to choose a cleanser thats suitable for oily skin that is also non-comedogenic so that your skin doesnt break out from using the cleanser.
- Ingredients
It is also important to know about the ingredients in the product you are considering. If you are looking for protection from free radicals, choosing a product enriched with antioxidants in its ingredient list will definitely help you.
- Purpose of the product
When choosing the best facial cleanser, think about what skin issues you face and what you would like to improve. If you are beginning to develop fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of photoaging, then perhaps you need a cleanser that also has skin brightening and tightening properties.
- Skin conditions
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Do: Stay Away From Certain Ingredients
Riyaz says people with sensitive skin might reach for creamy cleansers, oils, or balms that contain mineral oil or petroleum to relieve any itchiness or flakiness. “Mineral oil will clog pores, disrupt the barrier function of the skin, inhibit oxygenation and detoxification, and over time, make the skin dependent on it,” he says.
And you’ll also want to stay away from ingredients that are way too harsh. “Avoid sulfate , as this is one of the foaming ingredients in a face wash that can be quite irritating or sensitizing,” says Anthony Rossi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, who has a skincare line launching in 2022. “Also avoid microbeads or other physical exfoliators, as these would be too harsh for sensitive skin types. Avoid benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid washes.”
Hydralight One Step Face Cleanser
Paula’s Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paulas Choice Hydralight One Step Face Cleanser
For those with oilier and more sensitive skin, this gentle gel cleanser is one of the best Paulas Choice products. It contains replenishing ingredients that leave the skin feeling refreshed and clean without irritation.
This cleanser is incredibly gentle, even for those with more sensitive skin. However, the gel formula still effectively cleans, while soothing and replenishing ingredients calm the skin.
- Some reviewers note that it doesnt remove makeup
This cleanser contains sodium hyaluronate , which increases moisture levels in the skin. It also contains allantoin and niacinamide, which moisturize, soothe, fight signs of aging, and protect the skin.
Water , Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Niacinamide, Inositol, Lactic Acid, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Xanthan Gum, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Benzophenone-3 , Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Propylparaben, Methylparaben, Sodium Benzoate.
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
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Etude House Moistfull Collagen Cleansing Foam
Best Korean Face Wash For Dry Skin and Anti-Aging
Dry skin is the number of cause of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. So a lot of anti-aging products contain collagen as it add moisture and increases firmness of your skin.
So if you want a face wash to help with making your skin look younger and soft, the Etude House Moistfull Collagen Cleanser is a good pick.
The main ingredient weve already told you is collagen. It helps retain moisture in skin cells, increase skins elasticity, and helps it look softer, plumper, and younger.
Theres also lupin seed oil to add that extra dose of hydration to your skin!
This face wash was disappointing in one area. It was very heavily fragranced. And while the scent is very pleasant, we dont think it will suit those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
The Etude House cleanser is also quite reasonably priced. And a little goes a long way, so its good for your wallet too.
Pros:
What is the best Korean face wash for dry skin?
After checking out all the ingredients, price, and user reviews, weve decided that the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisturizing Cleanser is the best Korean face wash for dry skin. It contains nourishing ingredients like panthenol and hyaluronic acid and is free of sulfates and alcohol. We like how the face wash suits even those with sensitive skin. The cleanser is also vegan and cruelty-free.
Best Cleanser For Very Sensitive And Red Skin: Curel Makeup Cleansing Oil 1450
When skin is on red alert, you could have a temporary reaction or something more chronic, such as rosacea or eczema , the best thing to do is remove every potential irritant from your regime until things settle. This is when ingredients such as mineral oil come in: often demonised for being a petrochemical, the truth is that its purified and entirely inert, meaning it has no active compounds that could aggravate upset skin . This mineral oil melts away dirt and makeup and transforms into a milk on contact with water to rinse clean away. But its party trick is that its formulated to protect, promote and replenish skins natural stash of ceramides, lipids essential to its self-moisturising ability. In other words, this oil will help the skin get stronger and better able to fend off irritation.
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Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser
| Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser.
It isnt surprising that Neutrogena has made more than one appearance on our list of 27 best face washes for sensitive skin – theyre a prolific brand in the world of gentle, good-for-you skincare. This Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser is designed specifically for dry sensitive skin, and effectively cleanses by gently removing excess oil, dirt and makeup, so your skin feels clean and moisturized every day.
It is free of soap and fragrance, and has no added parabens or dyes. Its uniquely formulated with minimal ingredients that are specially chosen to hydrate and protect. This cleanser was developed alongside dermatologists and is so gentle that even those with sensitive skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea can use it.