Washing your face might not be the most exciting part of your routine, but it makes a huge difference. A good cleanser sets the stage for the rest of your skincare by clearing away dirt, oil, and makeup without drying you out. I’ve tested a bunch of facial cleansers to find the ones that really work. Here’s what I found.
My Personal Favorite: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
If I had to pick just one, this would be it. La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is simple, effective, and great for sensitive skin. It has a creamy, non-foaming texture that feels soothing when I apply it. It removes dirt and makeup without making my skin feel tight or stripped. If you have dry or sensitive skin, this is a solid everyday option.
Best for Removing Makeup: Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
This balm is a lifesaver when I’m wearing heavier makeup. It starts as a solid, melts into an oil, and breaks everything down—including waterproof mascara. I always follow up with another cleanser, but this makes the process so much easier. It’s fragrance-free and rinses off clean without any greasy residue.
Best Gentle Gel Cleanser: Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser
If you like a gel cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin, this one is great. It foams up lightly and rinses off clean, leaving my skin feeling refreshed. It also smells amazing—kind of like strawberries—but without artificial fragrance. I’ve noticed that it helps brighten my complexion over time.
Best for Oily Skin: SkinCeuticals Purifying Cleanser
This one has glycolic acid, which gently exfoliates while it cleanses. If you deal with clogged pores or dull skin, it’s a good option. It lathers up nicely and makes my skin feel super clean without being too harsh. I wouldn’t use it every day if you have dry skin, but a few times a week, it’s great for keeping skin clear.
Best Hydrating Cleanser: KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser
This one is a great all-around face wash, especially if your skin leans dry or dehydrated. It has a jelly-like texture that feels soft and smooth on the skin. It doesn’t foam much, but it does a great job of removing dirt and oil without making my face feel tight.
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser
This cleanser has a small amount of salicylic acid to help prevent breakouts without over-drying. I like using this when my skin feels congested or when I see a breakout coming on. It’s gentle enough for daily use and helps keep my skin balanced.
Best Splurge: Shiseido Future Solution LX Extra Rich Cleansing Foam
This is definitely on the pricey side, but it feels super luxurious. It lathers into a soft, cushiony foam that makes washing my face feel like a spa moment. It leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth, but I wouldn’t use it daily since it’s a bit rich.
Best for Double Cleansing: EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser
This cleanser starts as an oil and turns into a milky wash when you add water. It’s great for removing sunscreen and light makeup without stripping my skin. If you don’t like traditional oil cleansers but still want something hydrating, this is a good pick.
Best Drugstore Option: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe makes solid, no-fuss skincare, and this cleanser is no exception. It’s creamy, fragrance-free, and packed with ceramides to help support the skin barrier. If you want something basic that gets the job done, this is a great option.
Final Thoughts
If you need a good all-around cleanser, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is my go-to. If you wear makeup often, Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm is a must. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly pick, CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser won’t let you down. A good cleanser makes all the difference, and these are the ones I actually enjoyed using.
