What to Look for in the Best Facial Cleansers

Selecting the right facial cleanser is essential for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a facial cleanser.

1. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose a cleanser formulated for your specific skin type—such as oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or normal—to ensure it addresses your unique needs without causing irritation or imbalance.

2. Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for gentle, effective ingredients that align with your skincare goals. Avoid harsh sulfates and opt for nourishing elements like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or soothing botanicals if you have sensitive skin.

3. Formulation

Citrus catapult arrow

Facial cleansers come in various forms including gels, creams, foams, oils, and balms. The texture and formulation can impact how well it removes makeup, dirt, and excess oil while maintaining your skin’s moisture barrier.

4. Targeted Concerns

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider any specific skin concerns you want to address, such as acne, dullness, or redness. Some cleansers offer added benefits like exfoliation or calming properties to help improve the overall appearance of your complexion.

  1. 1
    Clarifying Cleanser

    Tata Harper

    1,459 REVIEWS
    A foaming gel cleanser that targets blemish-causing impurities and balances oil for clear, comfortably matte skin.
  2. 2
    Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    834 REVIEWS
    An efficient and energizing face wash.
  3. 3
    Liquid Gold Cleansing Oil
    753 REVIEWS
    A gentle-yet-effective Golden Jojoba Oil makeup removing cleanser that activates with water to break bonds of makeup and impurities
  4. 4
    Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash
    681 REVIEWS
    An effective facial cleanser that gently cleanses without over drying.
  5. 5
    Botanical Brilliance Exfoliating Cleanser
    623 REVIEWS
    A triple-action exfoliating cleanser that botanically buffs away impurities for visibly smooth, soft skin.
  6. 6
    Soothing Cleansing Oil

    Bobbi Brown

    281 REVIEWS
    A rich yet lightweight oil cleanser and makeup remover.
  7. 7
    Milk Cleanser

    Avène

    167 REVIEWS
    A gentle, no-rinse cleanser for dry skin removes make-up, dirt and oil while providing moisture
  8. 8
    Creamy Cleanser

    PCA Skin

    162 REVIEWS
    This gentle, hydrating cleanser effectively removes dirt, debris and makeup.
  9. 9
    Purifying Face Wash

    Indie Lee

    124 REVIEWS
    Gently, yet thoroughly, remove makeup and impurities with this antioxidant-rich foaming cleanser.
  10. 10
    Daily Exfoliant

    PCA Skin

    119 REVIEWS
    Gently polish away dead skin cells to reveal radiant, younger-looking skin

What to Look for in the Best Facial Cleansers

Selecting the right facial cleanser is essential for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a facial cleanser.

1. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose a cleanser formulated for your specific skin type—such as oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or normal—to ensure it addresses your unique needs without causing irritation or imbalance.

2. Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for gentle, effective ingredients that align with your skincare goals. Avoid harsh sulfates and opt for nourishing elements like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or soothing botanicals if you have sensitive skin.

3. Formulation

Citrus catapult arrow

Facial cleansers come in various forms including gels, creams, foams, oils, and balms. The texture and formulation can impact how well it removes makeup, dirt, and excess oil while maintaining your skin’s moisture barrier.

4. Targeted Concerns

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider any specific skin concerns you want to address, such as acne, dullness, or redness. Some cleansers offer added benefits like exfoliation or calming properties to help improve the overall appearance of your complexion.