Best Facial Cleansers Reviewed and Compared
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Facial cleansers as the name implies are facial skin care product meant for intricately cleaning the face. Where in the skin pores, any foreign substance met will be removed with extreme prejudice. These substances are make-up, dead skin cells, dirt, excess sebum (oil), and any other pollutant that comes in contact with your skin (face). Its job as specified above—if successfully done, can prevent acne, refine and give a fresh look (skin) and aid in cleaning out harmful bacteria.
The fact that using a facial cleanser is better than a bar soap or any skin cleanser (not meant for the face) is one more point in the favour of facial cleansers. Because a bar soap with harsh chemicals can have side effects in an individual with very sensitive skin. Typically, a facial cleanser is tailored for use by your face. Your part is to choose the best one that suits your needs (or wants) in terms of face types. Which can be sensitive, dry, oily, mediumly oily or hybrid.
Furthermore, in the case of supremacy between bar soaps and facial cleansers, there are some disadvantages or advantages (in the case of facial cleansers) that bar soap possesses which is not seen in facial cleansers.
One of them is pH imbalance in individuals since bar soaps have a pH of 9 to 10. Whereas the average pH of the skin is 4.7. Also, bar soaps have the ability to clog pores and cause acne. Either by using thickeners (which is one of the main ingredients) or promoting the production of oil.
This process betrays one of the primary functions of cleansers in general, which is to clean out the pores of the skin any dirt, oil or pollutant found.
Our Top 3 Picks
- Cetaphil
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Our rating - Unscented
- Price: See Here
- CeraVe
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Our rating - Ceramides
- Price: See Here
- C. Moss Naturals
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Our rating - Natural
- Price: See Here
What is A Facial Cleanser?
As specified in the introduction, a facial cleanser is a liquid skin care product which is applied only on the face to thoroughly clean it. The liquid might be foamy and viscous or may be based on water, which is quick and efficient to use. Though, that speed sometimes can be sacrificed for functionality (in the case of water cleansing products).
Nonetheless, on this front, we’ve organized a list of the best facial cleansers available that can be perused by you to make a choice which will suit your needs.
10 Best Facial Cleansers
1. Cetaphil
The Cetaphil cleanser is used to remove surface oils, make-up, dirt and bacteria without leaving the skin too dry or tight. A perfect balance of pH and wetness/dryness is given to the skin upon application throughout the day.
Ingredients and Their Effects
The ingredient used in producing this cleanser is non-irritating nor does it lather too much. And coupling this with the fact that it is unscented, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. Which makes use of this cleanser by sensitive individuals possible, with literally no side effects like acne (due to the fact that it unclogs pores).
Unscented
Hypoallergenic
Non-comedogenic
Perfect for all skin types
Acne control
Price
Price is more than ideal for the benefits/functions that are on offer. Which is especially important when you notice that it can be used by individuals with dry, normal, or oily skin—without any side effects.
Conclusion
It's our first choice for a reason. We've tested its claims and we've also seen how it held up against other products not limited to the ones on this list, and to our astonishment, the results were worthwhile. So, try the Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser out because it is a fit for most individuals out there—due in part to its versatility.
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Perfect for all skin types
- Unscented, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic
- Could possibly dry out the skin of some individuals
2. CeraVe
It can be used daily with no side effects, and it will also neither dry out your skin nor tighten it. Consequently, it maintains a balanced moisture level and doesn't inconvenience pH levels of the skin. And coupling all these with the inclusion of hyaluronic acid as an ingredient, which has anti-aging properties—the cleanser is an excellent choice.
Three Essential Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)
Ceramides are naturally occurring in our body, or to be more precise, our skin.
These three ceramides are used for mildly moisturizing the skin in order to aid it in shedding dead skin cells from the skin surface. Benefits of this are decreased scaling and dryness which will give your skin a smooth and fresh look as well as making it supple to the touch. Also, it removes all unnecessary oil without disrupting the skin barrier which can be used to prevent infections. They work in tandem with the other features of this cleanser to boost the efficacy and provide excellent user experience.
Presence of ceramides 1, 3, 6-11
Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, non-drying and non-irritating
Perfect for normal to oily skin
Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for their anti-aging properties
Price
The pricing is exceptional and is an added incentive for potential buyers to give this facial cleanser a buy. Also, at that price, it sacrifices none of its functions and makes no compromises that will hurt user experience.
Conclusion
The CeraVe Facial Cleanser is designed for excellent user experience across various individuals. Its benefits do not discriminate and as a result of this, the cleanser is perfect for use on any skin regardless of its type. Overall, this product is great value for money.
- Presence of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide
- Clears out acne by unclogging pores
- Presence of ceramides 1, 3, 6-11
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating
- Impressive value for money
- pH levels might be too high for some people
3. Christina Moss Naturals
The cleanser is used to clean (unclog) and simultaneously nourish the skin by using certified organic ingredients like oils and extracts. It can primarily be used by individuals with extremely sensitive skin since it will not cause acne development (seeing as that'll betray its primary functions). Also, the cleanser can be used daily on all skin types with nil side effects. Instead, it will coordinate with your skin's pH levels and correct any insufficiency such as pollutant (bacteria and others) that might pose a problem to you.
All Natural Ingredients
Being hypoallergenic is an understatement when you take into consideration that this cleanser is strictly made with 100 percent natural ingredients. Ingredients such as Organic Butyrospermum Parki (Shea Butter), Rosemary, Aloe vera and numerous others like them are present in the cleanser. All of them have many individual benefits but now consider their cumulative effects. Guaranteed excellent user experience and safety are two languages that it comfortably speaks to users.
All natural ingredients like aloe vera and rosemary
Perfect for all skin types
Primarily engineered for sensitive skin
Price
The value for money could definitely be better when you compare it to the prior products on this list. Though, when you consider its all natural formula, which delivers many of the needed benefits—it's a suitable trade-off.
Conclusion
The cleanser will be especially loved by individuals with extremely sensitive skin that are on the search for a facial cleanser that will take proper good care of their skin. Though, usage by people with other skin types is very much welcome too. Overall, the cleanser can be used by a plethora of individuals with specific needs that only a facial cleanser of this caliber can manage.
- All natural formula (aloe vera, rosemary, shea butter, etcetera)
- Cleanses and nourishes the skin
- Suitable for all skin types and individuals with very sensitive skin
- Nice smell
- Value for money could be better
4. EltaMD
Bromelain
This proteolytic enzyme is an included ingredient in this product. Primarily found in pineapples, it has been extracted into this cleanser to give some unique benefits as an alpha hydroxy acid. It gently removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin by chemical exfoliation. Wherehence it results in a smooth and soft look/feel for the skin. One major result of this is in the area of acne, where it unclogs pores and manages inflammation of dead skin cells on the skin surface
Cleanses the skin pores
Presence of bromelain
Suitable for all skin types
Contains apple amino acids
Price
Value for money is good, but like the Christina Moss Natural Facial Cleanser, it could be better (when you consider other products). Though, taking into consideration the inclusion of certain ingredients like bromelain, and apple amino acids, it's still good value for money.
Conclusion
The facial cleanser is perfect for various individuals with different skin types, and thus no matter how selective your choices are, this particular facial cleanser will serve you well.
- Presence of amino acids and bromelain
- Fit for all skin types
- Unclogs skin pores and prevention of acne
- Can dry out some individual's skin
5. Garnier
Micellar Technology
The powerful micellar technology is designed to attract dirt, oil, make-up, bacteria and any other pollutants like a magnet, with thusly no need to harshly rub the aforementioned pollutants off your face. The result leaves your face completely clear and refined in terms of glow, and age.
Micellar technology
Suitable for all skin types (even sensitive)
Facial skin cleanser
Oil-free, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free
Price
This is one of the overall best product in this list in terms of value for money. What it offers in terms of functions and overall effectiveness can actually rival that of other more expensive facial cleansers. In summary, it's a budget device with valuable benefits that would do well by you.
Conclusion
If one of your conditions for picking out a facial cleanser is price, then you'll love the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water. As it maintains a reasonable price without sacrificing any function that you may need or want.
- Micellar technology to clean out pores
- Perfect for all skin types; even sensitive ones
- Oil-free, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free
- Perfect for emergencies
- Excellent value for money
- Feels oily in the case of some people
6. Biore
Also, it can be used daily and the effects will become apparent just after a few usages.
Charcoal
Charcoal is a common ingredient found in nature that has another use other than its rather obvious use as fuel. One of its uses is displayed by this product which intricately absorbs impurities for regulation of substances like oil (oily skin) and exfoliation in the case of dead skin cells.
Deeply cleans the skin pores
Charcoal and all its benefits
Perfect for oily skin
Price
The Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is the best bang for buck item on this list. It does this without sacrificing any of its inherent functions, and in fact, uses a natural ingredient (charcoal) to boost its powers. It's a great rival to the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleanser in terms of price, and therefore, it will be perfect for individuals on a budget.
Conclusion
The cleanser is perfect for all skin types, and due to the inclusion of charcoal as an ingredient, it is specifically suitable for use by individuals with oily skin. The price is also an incentive to buy the cleanser—especially when you consider that it ensures quality despite being a budget device.
- Deeply cleans the skin pores of all dirt, bacteria, oil, make-up, and other pollutants
- Presence of charcoal as an ingredient
- Suitable for oily skin
- Exceptional value for money
- It might be too strong for some individuals with very sensitive/dry skin
7. InstaNatural
All Natural Ingredients
This Cleanser is a vitamin C facial cleanser that works in tandem with ingredients like green tea, chamomile, sugar cane and others. The result of this union gives all the aforementioned benefits and even more. Vitamin C itself is an antioxidant, which we tested and have therefore confirmed its anti-aging claims.
All natural ingredients
Presence of vitamin C
Anti-aging properties
Suitable for all skin types
Price
Normally, a minor remark about how the value for money could be better—was going to be written. But, with all of its ingredients working in perfect tandem to give so many benefits, it's really a win-win situation for anyone looking for an excellent facial cleanser.
Conclusion
The InstaNatural Facial Cleanser is a product that is perfect for all skin types (even sensitive skin) with literally no side effects, except for allergies in ingredients such as chamomile (Though, allergic reactions due to chamomile are very rare). The cleanser is also not the best in terms of price (compared to others on this list), but considering some of its unique benefits, you have more than enough incentive to give it a buy.
- Can be used for all skin types
- Anti-aging properties
- Deeply cleans the pores
- All natural ingredients
- It dries out the skin in some cases
8. Vichy
Micellar Technology
The item uses micellar technology to remove makeup, dirt and other impurities from your skin. Which also has another boon in the two areas speed and accuracy. That is—micellar technology has up to 99% of pinpoint accuracy and can easily be used in emergencies. It's fast, efficient and very easy to use.
Micellar technology
Suitable for all skin types
Facial cleansing water for toning, impurities removal
Price
Likewise the other facial cleansing water product on this list, the Vichy Micellar Water Cleanser is excellent bang for buck. It's a perfect substitute for people who prefer another product to the Garnier Facial Cleanser. Also, since it doesn't share the same con as the other water-based cleanser on this list, that's more than enough incentive to give it a buy.
Conclusion
This is perfect for quickly cleaning off your make-up, and removing other bacteria for the prevention of acne. And coupling that with its very reasonable price, individuals who are on a tight budget will definitely appreciate this product, likewise the Garnier product as well.
- Light on the skin
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin
- Micellar technology
- Cleans out pores for impurities removal and control of acne
Overpriced according to many users
9. Caudalie
Friendly Ingredients
The cleanser is made up of environmentally friendly ingredients, which are safe for human use. Ingredients such as sage, chamomile, grape extracts, and vitamins are used for purification purposes and soothing effects. Also, it is formulated without certain ingredients like parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, synthetic dyes, and numerous others. This is to ensure excellent user experience regardless of the skin type and sensitivity.
Friendly ingredients
Cleans out the pores
Perfect for all skin types and sensitivity
Price
For all these benefits, the price is ok. It's not the best value for money when you consider some of the other products on this list, but fortunately, it has an almost perfect balance of effectiveness and adequate pricing. Some users might not like its price, and so, should check out the Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser, which has exceptional value for money.
Conclusion
The Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser is perfect for all skin types, which will definitely serve you well (considering all its benefits). Its value for money is ideal for such a product of its caliber, and if it's within your budget, give it a buy.
- Value for money is OK
- Environmental friendly ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Pleasant scent
- Allergic reactions due to some of its ingredients
10. Clearasil
Salicylic Acid For Acne
Salicylic acid or otherwise known as a peeling agent (keratolytic) is best used for skin conditions such as seborrhea and dandruff. Though its most common use is in the treatment of acne, and that's why it is included as an ingredient in the Clearasil Daily Gel Wash. The cleanser is not suitable enough for use by people with dry skin, or over sensitive skin since it can cause severe dryness and irritation respectively. Nonetheless, it is best used for oily individuals with acne problems, though you can also use it for make-up, dirt, and bacteria removal.
Suitable for normal to oily skin
Salicylic acid is present for the prevention of acne
Deeply cleans the skin pores
Clearer skin after 12 hours
Price
Excellent value for money is one of the numerous incentives this cleanser has—and it also sacrifices none of these functions for the sake of price. Which makes the cleanser suitable for people who want a product within their budget, while at the time fully equipped with functions to serve their needs.
Conclusion
Despite the low price of this cleanser, it still doesn't have any reduction in terms of overall quality. But one thing we would have loved to see was full compatibility with all skin types. Overall, the cleanser performs as expected, which is to clean pollutants/impurities and treat acne.
- Excellent bang for buck
- Presence of salicylic acid for acne prevention
- Deeply cleans pores to remove impurities like dirt, oil, and make-up
- Lightweight with a nice scent
- Excellent value for money
- A bit weak for some people
Benefits
Unlike some individuals with silky smooth skin (who also use cleansers), there’s a reason why your own face isn’t supple and smooth or acne-free. And that reason is your abstinence from facial cleansers. They’re important to a healthy skin because unlike soaps, these cleansers are bottled up with nutrients that your face will readily accept/absorb, and you’ll be left with the benefits below.
Impurities
A facial cleanser as already mentioned above, gets rid of all impurities with extreme prejudice. Oil, dirt, bacteria, make-up and other impurities will be removed swiftly by the cleanser—which is needed due to the fact that you’re constantly in touch with all the impurities above throughout the day. They’ll penetrate your pores and problems such as acne arise as a result of that.
Blemish-free Skin
Oil producers (glands) under the skin called sebum—they use hair follicles within the skin as a way to reach the surface of the skin, and protect the skin from impurities such as bacteria, and dirt. Unfortunately, dirt can be in excess and it will clog up the pores, and from there on, there’s no protection to be had. One of the main purposes of a facial cleanser is to clear out the impurities and allow the oil (called sebum) to do its work.
Hydration
Facial cleansers are semi-moisturizers and the function of a moisturizer is to help the skin maintain a healthy level of hydration. If your skin is dehydrated, it will feel rough, wrinkled and unpleasant to the touch and sight. An example of one product on this list that can help your skin maintain hydration is the InstaNatural Facial Cleanser.
Usage Recommendation
Regardless of the sheer benefits of any product, there’s a strict schedule that must be followed, and facial cleansers are not excluded from this fact. Facial cleanser usage depends on your skin type (how dry or oily it is) and sensitivity. But normally, usage regardless of the product is daily. Your part before you start using any facial cleanser fully on your face is to rub a small part first, and then after rinsing—wait to see its side effects and benefits. Upon zero side effects, you should be able to fully apply the facial cleanser on your face.
Also, depending if your face is too oily, you might need to use the facial cleanser daily and only once on your face. But, if it’s too dry, or very sensitive, using a product like the Biore Deep Pore Charcoal cleanser might be counter-productive. Though please do keep in mind that water-based facial cleansers like the Vichy Micellar Cleansing Water and Makeup Remover do not need any rinsing. Just apply the pads to your face and gently remove the impurities. For best results, you should use facial cleansers regularly (daily).
In summary, depending on your skin type, you should use the above recommendation to find/create a schedule or simply visit a dermatologist. Though, do keep in mind that we recommend using it only once or twice daily, but since conditions are different, you may use as necessary and appropriate (to avoid side effects).
Maintenance Tips
Using a facial cleanser, you’ll need to properly store it an appropriate manner, lest it spoils or loses effectiveness. Luckily, all manufacturers provide instructions on doing that, and we too—recommend them to you. Keep your facial cleanser in a place not too hot, or too cool. Just help the product maintain a normal temperature by avoiding any place that has an abnormal temperature. Also, do keep the cleansers away from children so as to avoid complications.
Criteria for Evaluation
The need for facial cleansers has always been present—with different individuals all over who need it for one reason or the other. So, in the regard, how did we pick the best products that will serve you well? If you’re curious about that, then the following conditions and methods will show you how we picked the items that would provide the best user experience with an appropriate price tag.
Price and Value
Price and value go hand-in-hand and we’ve made sure to get a perfect balance of both. All the products on this, we’ve ensured that you get the best possible prices for them, and we did this by evaluating its value. Just because a product has a hefty price tag doesn’t mean it’s the best in its category. But there’s a difference between budget and cheap, and we’ve ensured all the items on this list fall within your budget. We picked only the items with the best value for money. By doing this, we’ve ensured excellent user experience for you regardless of the item you pick.
User Reviews
We take time to go through the different experiences from users about a product because this is quite possibly the most important aspect of picking any product. This is due to the difference in body types (skin types), as we need to get a real measure on what happens when consumers use a product. We want to how they feel about the taste, smell, feel on their skin etcetera—so we can pick out what’s best for you.
Side Effects
The only cause of concern for facial cleansers are the ingredients and which side effects or allergic reactions they can cause. Luckily, the likelihood of that is very slim since individuals with allergies to ingredients such as chamomile are rare.
Nonetheless, the side effects of using a facial cleanser are swelled up nose, lips, tongue, eyes, and face, breathing difficulties, dryness and peeling of the skin, redness of the skin, fainting, hives or itching, and tightness of the throat.
Also, the matter of sensitivity must be breached. As people with different skin types can have different reactions to using the product which can contribute to a few of the aforementioned effects.
Safety
Like always, we take our time when selecting the items on our list, since safety is a vital issue that all consumers are concerned about. And as already known, facial cleansers are always used on the skin (face) for deep pore cleaning, so safety is mildly guaranteed.
Furthermore, other than the reasons specified in the side effects sub-section, you have nothing to worry about. Facial cleansers are completely safe to use since all of their ingredients have been clinically tested. But do note that should you be skeptical in any way or form, do kindly consult your dermatologist for a proper explanation or examination if you need more info.
Ingredients and Their Effectiveness
From salicylic acid for acne prevention to hyaluronic acid which has anti-aging properties, all the ingredients have been thoroughly checked for benefits and potential side effects. This was done so as to ensure quality user experience regardless of the skin type.
Also, due to the importance of want, we included products with all natural ingredients for the individuals who will settle for nothing less. So as to ensure satisfaction in the form of variety.
Product Testing
Thoroughly testing the device and its claims is something we do to ensure good quality. And as it’s not easy to go through hundreds of products for just the lucky one, we do that in your stead, and then make a versatile list of the best ones you can buy. Therefore, no matter your level of experience in using skin care products, there’s an item on this list that will fit your needs/wants.
FAQS
Can I use facial cleanser during pregnancy?
Yes, you can—because you may be dealing with acne during pregnancy. A facial cleanser with 2 percent salicylic acid (the percentage is on the item label) should be used. Also, for any further questions or concerns, kindly visit your dermatologist.
Which One should I use?
You should pick a facial cleanser based on your skin type and sensitivity. And based on that, peruse this guide and pick one that fits your needs. Though, most of them are perfect for all skin types.
What facial cleanser is best for acne?
All of the facial cleansers on this list are suitable for acne treatment. But, if you want something specifically built to handle that, then you can use the Clearasil Ultra Rapid Action Daily Gel Wash.
When to use a facial cleanser?
Kindly visit our Usage Recommendations section or a dermatologist for more information on the appropriate use of facial cleansers.
What face wash is good for oily skin?
Almost all of the facial cleanser on this list can be used for oily skin, but the Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is especially suitable for oily skin.
What facial cleansers have salicylic acid?
The Clearasil Ultra Rapid Action Daily Gel Wash is the only facial cleanser on this list that contains salicylic acid.
What is a good face wash to use every day?
All of the facial cleansers present on this list can be used daily by anyone. Furthermore, there’s a facial cleanser for everyone regardless of their skin type and sensitivity.
Which face cleanser is best?
There’s no best facial cleanser. And as small as the chance is, it’s still possible that the number five facial cleanser on this list might work better than the number one for you. You have to peruse the list and choose the one you like the most and if the determiner for that is its smell, then pick it.
How to use the cleansers?
For more information on this, kindly visit our Usage Recommendations section, or consult a dermatologist.
Can I use a facial cleanser with other products?
You can use with creams/lotions, perfumes, moisturizers or any other product that you want. But using it with another facial cleanser is not advised
