Doctor’s Note: Your Easy Guide to Cleansers
As dermatologists, we know that proper cleansing is essential for maintaining healthy skin. The ideal cleanser would remove all dirt, sweat, oil, makeup, etc and does not disturb the skin at all. It's hard to find a cleanser that meets this criteria! We will try our best to help you find the perfect cleanser for your unique skin!
Why Cleanse?
Cleansing forms the foundation of any effective skincare routine. It's essential to strike a balance: over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and other skin issues. In contrast, under-cleansing can lead to the accumulation of gunk, leading to acne, irritation, and other products not being able to penetrate into the skin! In order to best choose the right cleanser for you, first we must...
Discover Your Skin Type!
There are 4 skin types. Any of these skin types can be sensitive or acne-prone as well (for example, you can have oily sensitive skin or dry acne-prone skin). Your skin type may change with the seasons, age, stress, hormones, and more! That's why it's important to Keep Up with the Kardashians, oops, I mean keep up with your skin type!
3 Steps to Determine Your Skin Type:
Understanding your skin type is crucial when selecting the right skincare products and routines. Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove all makeup and impurities. After patting your skin dry, leave it bare for an hour without applying any products. Pay attention to how your skin feels: tightness may indicate dry skin, while shine on the nose and forehead suggests combination skin, and overall shine points to oily skin.
Next, use a blotting sheet or tissue paper to press it against different areas of your face. If the paper picks up oil from all zones, you likely have oily skin. If it picks up minimal to no oil, you have dry skin. If it only picks up oil from the T-zone, you have combination skin.
Finally, assess your skin's reaction to various products and environmental factors. Sensitive skin often reacts with redness, itching, or burning, while normal skin remains balanced and comfortable.
Understanding these characteristics helps tailor your skincare routine to maintain healthy, glowing skin.
Step 1: Cleanse + Pat Dry
Step 2: After 30 Minutes, Is Your Skin:
Step 3: In General, Is Your Skin:
Cleanser Overview
Facial cleansers are designed to remove impurities like dirt, oil, makeup, and dead skin cells. They are available in various forms to suit different skin types and preferences. Here is a brief overview:
Gel
Lightweight
Best for: Oily, Acne-Prone
Gel-to-Foam
Deep Cleaning + Lightweight
Best for: Combo
Foam
Deep cleaning
Best for: Combo
Cream-to-Foam
Deep Cleaning + Hydrating
Best for: Dry
Cream
Hydrating
Best for: Dry, Sensitive
More is Better… Right?
In the clinic, many patients ask "Should I cleanse once or twice a day?" And the answer is.... there's no right answer! Some people have extremely sensitive, eczema-prone skin and can only handle cleansers once a day, while others have extremely oily, acne-prone skin, and they prefer to cleanse twice a day. Cleansing can also mean just splashing with a bit of water - it doesn't have to involve product! Also, your skin is extremely permeable after being wet, which is a great time for moisturizers to sink in! (Not a great time for acids, retinol, vitamin C, and other actives: the ingredients will sink in too deep and cause irritation!)
Best for Normal Skin
Normal skin is not too oily or too dry, so you need a cleanser that keeps your skin balanced and clean without causing any irritation. In this section, we’ll share some top picks for cleansers that are perfect for normal skin, helping you keep your face fresh and healthy.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Oily
Form - Gel to Foam
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Hyaluronic Acid - Hydrate, plump
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Combo, Oily, Sensitive
Form - Gel to Foam
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Thermal Spring Water - Soothing water with selenium (an antioxidant)
Note: La Roche Posay’s Toleriane line is for sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Panthenol - Soothing
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Thermal Spring Water - Soothing water with selenium (an antioxidant)
Note: La Roche Posay’s Toleriane line is for sensitive skin.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Panthenol - Soothing
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Note: Choose this cleanser if you have normal/dry skin.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleanser
Best For - Combo, Oily, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
Form - Gel to Foam
Zinc Pidolate - Removes oil
Thermal Spring Water - Soothing water with selenium (an antioxidant)
Note: La Roche Posay’s Effaclar line is for acne-prone skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Combo, Oily, Sensitive
Form - Gel to Foam
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Thermal Spring Water - Soothing water with selenium (an antioxidant)
Note: La Roche Posay’s Toleriane line is for sensitive skin.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Oily
Form - Gel to Foam
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Hyaluronic Acid - Hydrate, plump
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Best for Oily Skin
Have oily skin? You need a cleanser that helps control excess oil without drying out your skin. In this section, we’ll cover the best cleansers for oily skin that help reduce shine and keep your skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
Best For - Combo, Oily, Sensitive
Form - Gel to Foam
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Panthenol - Soothing
Glycerin - Moisturizer
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Encapsulated Ceramides - Releases slowly over time to maintain skin barrier, even after applying
Hyaluronic Acid - Hydrate, plump
Note: Choose a cream cleanser if you are very dry. If you’d like something a bit more cleansing, choose a cream-to-foam cleanser (to the right!).
Best for Dry Skin
Have dry skin? You need a cleanser that hydrates and soothes while gently removing dirt and impurities. In this section, we’ll highlight the best cleansers for dry skin that help keep your skin soft and moisturized.
CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream to Foam
Encapsulated Ceramides - Releases slowly over time to maintain skin barrier, even after applying
Hyaluronic Acid - Hydrate, plump
Amino Acids - Increase moisture
Note: Hydrating and refreshing. Contains amino acid-based surfactant, meaning it is very gentle.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Panthenol - Soothing
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Note: Choose a cream cleanser if you are very dry. If you’d like something a bit more cleansing, choose a cream-to-foam cleanser (to the right!).
Cetaphil Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream to Foam
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Panthenol - Soothing
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Prebiotic Aloe - Soothing
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Best For - Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Note: Minimal ingredients, safe for eczema and rosacea. Fragrance-free.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Panthenol - Soothing
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Thermal Spring Water - Soothing water with selenium (an antioxidant)
Note: La Roche Posay’s Toleriane line is for sensitive skin.
Best for Sensitive Skin
Have sensitive skin? You need a cleanser that is gentle and soothing without irritating it. In this section, we’ll explore the best cleansers for sensitive skin that clean effectively while minimizing redness and discomfort.
EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
Best For - Sensitive
Form - Cream to Foam
Bromelain - Pineapples enzymes reduce inflammation
Note: Contains fragrance.
Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser
Best For - Sensitive
Form - Gel to Foam
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Oat - Moisturizer
Feverfew - Moisturizer, antioxidant
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
Best For - Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Note: Vanicream is known for being safe for the most sensitive skin. This is Vanicream’s mildest cleanser for daily use.
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Best For - Dry, Sensitive
Form - Cream
Note: Minimal ingredients, safe for eczema and rosacea. Fragrance-free.
Best for Facial Acne
Struggling with facial acne? You need a cleanser that helps fight breakouts while being gentle on your skin. In this section, we’ll highlight the best cleansers for facial acne that help reduce pimples and keep your skin clear.
Differin Daily Deep Facial Cleanser
Best For - Oily, Acne-Prone
Form - Cream
Benzoyl Peroxide (5%) - Antibacterial
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Note: Contains micronized benzoyl peroxide for less irritation.
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
Best For - Acne-Prone
Form - Cream to Foam
Benzoyl Peroxide (4%) - Antibacterial
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Panthenol - Soothing
Hyaluronic Acid - Hydrates, plumps
Note: May cause drying or redness.
PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash
Best For - Oily, Acne-Prone
Form - Cream
Benzoyl Peroxide (4%) - Antibacterial
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Note: Gentle enough for daily use. pH balanced to combat dryness.
CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser
Best For - Oily, Acne-Prone
Form - Gel to Foam
Salicylic Acid (?%) - Exfoliate pores
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Silica, Clay - Absorb oil, decrease shine
Best for Comedonal Acne
Dealing with comedonal acne? You need a cleanser that helps clear clogged pores and prevent blackheads and whiteheads. In this section, we’ll showcase the best cleansers for comedonal acne that help keep your pores clear and your skin smooth.
CeraVe SA Cleanser
Best For - Normal, Acne-Prone
Form - Gel to Foam
Salicylic Acid (?%) - Exfoliate pores
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Hyaluronic Acid - Hydrates, plumps
Note: Can be used on the face or body. Great for Keratosis Pilaris (KP).
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
Best For - Oily, Acne-Prone
Form - Gel to Foam
Salicylic Acid (2%) - Exfoliate pores
Lipo-Hydroxy Acid - Exfoliation
Niacinamide - Brightening, soothing
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Vitamin E - Antioxidant
Panthenol - Soothing
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
Best For - Oily, Acne-Prone
Form - Cream to Foam
Benzoyl Peroxide (10%) - Antibacterial, sheds dead skin cells
Note: Contains the highest % of benzoyl peroxide available over-the-counter. May be too strong for face (see 4% above). Kills >99% of acne-causing bacteria in 15 seconds. We often rec Panoxyl 10% for the chest and back.
Differin Maximum Strength Acne Foaming Cleanser
Best For - Oily, Acne-Prone
Form - Cream to Foam
Benzoyl Peroxide (10%) - Antibacterial, sheds dead skin cells
Note: Contains micronized formula for less irritation. Contains the highest % of benzoyl peroxide available over-the-counter. May be too strong for face (see 4% above). Kills >99% of acne-causing bacteria in 15 seconds.
Benzoyl Peroxide Deep Cleansing Foaming Wash
Best For - Oily, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
Form - Foam
Benzoyl Peroxide (10%) - Antibacterial
Ceramides - Maintain skin barrier
Niacinamide - Calming, increases moisture
Glycerin - Moisturizer
Hyaluronic Acid - Hydrates, plumps
Glycolic Acid - Exfoliates
Oat Extract - Soothing
Note: Contains much many more “soothing” ingredients than Panoxyl, Differin. Choose if benzoyl peroxide is drying for you.
Best for Body Acne
Facing body acne issues? You need a cleanser that targets breakouts on areas like your back and chest while being gentle on your skin. In this section, we’ll recommend the best cleansers for body acne that help keep your skin clear and smooth.
Cleanser FAQs
Is CeraVe Foaming Cleanser water-based?
Yes, CeraVe Foaming Cleanser is water-based. It’s designed to cleanse the skin thoroughly while maintaining moisture, making it suitable for normal to oily skin types.
Is CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser water-based?
Yes, CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is also water-based. It’s formulated to cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
Does facial cleanser expire?
Yes, facial cleansers do expire. Typically, a cleanser will last for about 12 to 24 months after opening. Always check the packaging for the expiration date and look for any changes in smell, texture, or color.
Is Cetaphil Face Wash good?
Yes, Cetaphil Face Wash is widely regarded as a gentle and effective option, especially for sensitive skin. It’s non-comedogenic and doesn’t contain harsh ingredients, making it a popular choice for everyday use.
Is the Cetaphil Cleanser good?
The Cetaphil Cleanser is considered a good option for those with sensitive or dry skin. It’s formulated to be gentle, non-irritating, and effective at removing dirt and oil without stripping the skin.
Is Native Facial Cleanser good?
Native Facial Cleanser is a popular choice among those looking for a more natural skincare option. It’s free from sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals, making it a good option for sensitive skin.
Is CeraVe Cleanser water-based?
Yes, CeraVe cleansers, including the Foaming and Hydrating variants, are water-based. This means they are formulated to clean the skin effectively while retaining moisture.
Is Cetaphil a water-based cleanser?
Yes, Cetaphil cleansers are water-based. They are designed to gently cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils, making them suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
Does Cetaphil have parabens?
Some Cetaphil products contain parabens as preservatives. If you prefer paraben-free products, check the ingredient list or look for specific Cetaphil formulations that are labeled as paraben-free.
Which CeraVe cleanser is best for me?
The best CeraVe cleanser for you depends on your skin type. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser is a good choice. For dry or sensitive skin, the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser might be more suitable.
What is the best facial cleanser for aging skin?
For aging skin, look for a cleanser that is hydrating and gentle, with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants. These help to maintain moisture and protect the skin barrier, which is important as the skin ages.