Whether your skincare routine is 12 steps long or maxes out at three products, a cleanser should always be present. What that cleanser is? Well, it depends. Choosing the best face wash for your skin type isn’t a hoax—it’s easily the most important part of your routine. “The right cleanser can help support healthy skin function,” explains Joshua Zeichner, M.D. FAAD and board-certified dermatologist. On the other hand, “choosing the wrong type of cleanser can negatively impact your skin by worsening existing skin issues or failing to address specific skin concerns,” adds Pooja Rambhia, M.D. FAAD and board-certified dermatologist.
While you can never go wrong with a no-fuss, drugstore gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and oil, you might find a targeted cleanser helpful to address additional skin concerns. The ingredient makeup of the best face washes for dry skin or sensitive skin will likely be packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, while those for oily skin or acne-prone skin can contain detoxing, sebum-absorbing salicylic acid or tea tree extract.
To help you sort through the abundance of options, I tapped top board-certified dermatologists to share their tips on finding the best cleanser for your skin type. Here, Dr. Zeichner, Dr. Rahmbia, Robert Finney, M.D. FAAD, and Nina Desai, M.D. FAAD, share their favorite face washes for every skin type.
First Things First: What Is My Skin Type?
Step one in selecting the best face wash for your skin type is identifying it. If you’re not sure which of the skin categories you fall into, there’s an easy beauty hack to find out. “First, wash your face with a gentle cleanser—don’t apply anything to the skin. Wait 30 minutes and then see how your skin feels,” explains Dr. Desia. “If your skin feels dry and tight your skin type is most likely dry. If your skin appears shiny or greasy, then you are oily. If you notice a combination of oiliness in the T-Zone and dryness on the cheeks, you have combination skin. You have normal skin if your skin feels great and there’s no signs of oiliness or dryness.” Sensitive skin on the other hand typically looks red and has a burning or stinging sensation.
The Best Face Wash for Dry Skin
Because dry skin has less natural moisturizing oils naturally, you can be left with a complexion that looks a little dull and a texture that feels rough, inflamed or itchy. “Dry skin often feels tight, cracks easily, and is visibly dehydrated,” says Dr. Rambhia. As a result, you want to seek out deeply hydrating face washes. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides in a cream or lotion texture. “Cream cleansers gently cleanse the skin using natural oils and emulsifiers and are ideal for those with dry skin.”
If you love the brands hand-held LED light, I promise you’ll be hooked on their hydrating cleanser too. “This water-based gel cleanser offers hydrating benefits, so it’s ideal if you have dry skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. “It contains panthenol along with prebiotic ingredients to support the skin’s microbiome and maintain a healthy skin barrier.”
Pros: Great ingredients; pleasant texture
Cons: Small bottle
If you want the benefits of a cream cleanser, but crave the squeaky clean feeling only executed by foam, this drugstore option is for you. “It’s ideal for dry skin types as it’s able to remove dirt and makeup without stripping away natural moisture or leaving the skin feeling tight and dry,” says Dr. Rambhia. “This is perfect for those with dry or sensitive skin given its fragrance-free formula with hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. The best part? This is an effective, non-irritating product at a cost-effective price point that is easily accessible to consumers.”
Pros: Affordable; fragrance-free
Cons: Pump can be leaky
The La Roche-Posay section is always my first stop at the drugstore, so I’m not surprised this cleanser made to the top of Dr. Rambhia’s list. “This non-fragranced cream cleanser is full of hydrating ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide,” she shares. “It will not strip the skin of its natural emollients, but still effectively cleanses.”
Pros: Affordable; soothing; contains antioxidants
Cons: Can feel a bit filmy
There’s no such thing as too many French skincare staples. Thankfully, this one is a staple stateside, too. “It’s formulated with glycerin, which is super silky and gentle,” says Dr. Desai. “I love the creamy, silky consistency. They’re easy even for those with sensitive skin who are eczema prone.”
Pros: Feels luxurious; great texture
Cons: Requires a double cleanse
The Best Face Wash for Sensitive Skin
As a sensitive skin girl myself, I can confirm that finding a cleanser to actively calm my complexion is a game changer. “Sensitive skin is more vulnerable to external irritants or allergens, such as dyes or fragrances, resulting in inflamed and itchy skin,” says Dr. Rambhia. You might experience stinging or burning frequently, which is precisely why looking for non-irritating cleansers is ideal. Avoid fragrances, dyes, and intense exfoliating acids.
“Micellar cleansing technology is the ideal option for people with sensitive skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. “Think of micellar cleansers as tiny oil magnets that hold off dirt from the skin. It is the most gentle of the cleansing technologies, so can be used in sensitive people, while still removing dirt and oil.” His go-to pick is this Garnier option, which is a staple in makeup artists’ kits.
Pros: Gentle; removes makeup
Cons: Requires a double cleanse
Ahava's cleansing gel is a lightweight, no-frills face wash made for all skin types. However, its texture makes it especially beneficial for people with people with oily or combination skin, because it thoroughly removes dirt and excess without leaving a residue, clogging pores, or over-drying skin. Made without fragrance or alcohol, it's also perfect for sensitive skin.
Pros: Lightweight; Fragrance-free; Suitable for sensitive skin; Vegan; Pregnancy-safe
Cons: Some reviewers with dry skin wish it was more moisturizing
Rich in antioxidants, manuka honey is known for its hydrating properties and its ability to improve skin texture and elasticity over time. It's a key ingredient in this gentle face wash from Keys Soulcare, along with calming chamomile and hydrating glycerin. Reviewers of all skin types, from acne-prone to dry, swear by it.
Pros: Black-owned brand; Suitable for all skin types; Natural ingredients; Hydrating; Clean; Cruelty-free; certified Free Trade; Lightweight
Cons: None found
Oftentimes, cleansers for sensitive skin can feel a bit sterile. Such is not the case with Dr. Idriss’ Soft Wash, which gets Dr. Finney’s stamp of approval. It’s a super-gentle pH-balancing cleanser that removes sunscreen and makeup in one, fell swoop. “It is also important to note that people with sensitive skin can also just rinse off with water in the morning and only using a cleanser once daily,” he adds.
Pros: Cute packaging; removes sunscreen
Cons: Expensive
An OG option that’s been a cult classic for decades, this cleanser gets Dr. Rambhia’s sign-off primarily because of what it does not contain. “It’s free of common skin irritants like dyes, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde releasers, sulfates, botanical extracts, and essential oils,” she shares. “I recommend this product to my patients with the most sensitive skin given its bland formula that is unlikely to precipitate or worsen irritation yet still cleanses effectively.”
Pros: Affordable; free of all common irritants
Cons: While fragrance-free, the scent can be a little off-putting
This is my daily cleanser, so bear with me while I praise it. The cream-meets-gel texture is delightful and leaves my skin feeling incredibly fresh. It instantly soothes redness and irritation, bringing my face back to a state of balance. Plus, the exploding vitamin E beads provide an extra dose of hydration to my complexion.
Pros: Editor-approved; great for redness
Cons: Expensive
The Best Face Wash for Oily Skin
Oily skin produces more oil, making your skin look greasy or shiny. “People with oily skin tend to be more susceptible to the appearance of large pores, acne breakouts, and blackheads and whiteheads, too,” says Dr. Rambhia. The plus side: “Those with oily skin tend to have fewer wrinkles.” Foaming and gel cleansers are ideal for oily skin types as they can effectively dissolve excess oil that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. You may also want to consider chemical exfoliant ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
I’m a huge Charlotte Tilbury fan, so I was thrilled when Dr. Zeichner signed off on this pick. “The unique formula starts as a cream, but offers a gentle lather necessary to remove excess oil from the skin,” he explains. “As it sits on the skin formula turns milky, preventing it from overly drying the outer skin layer. In addition to gentle cleansing surfactants, it’s formulated with a peptide complex that supports healthy skin cell function and helps minimize the appearance of pores.”
Pros: Great texture and scent; good for pores
Cons: More expensive than drugstore options
“Oily skin types definitely benefit from cleansers with actives to target congestion, such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids—notably salicylic acid—which helps cut through grease and oil to unclog pores,” says Dr. Finney. This Paula’s Choice option has just that, making it a great option for those who are oily and dealing with acne.
Pros: Contains salicylic acid for acne; not too harsh or stripping
Cons: Won’t work on small, red pimples
“This foaming cleanser removes excess oil and impurities that buildup on the skin surface throughout the day and loosens makeup,” says Dr. Rambhia. “It also contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory properties, leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed, but not stripped of its natural moisture.” Pair it with the brand’s cult-favorite SPF during the day and you’ll have a derm-approved skincare routine.
Pros: Great texture; removes makeup
Cons: Requires a double cleanse
“For oily or acne-prone skin or those with combination skin I typically recommend reaching for a gel cleanser or a foaming cleanser,” says Dr. Desai. Cut to: This Skinfix cleanser is specifically designed to address oily skin concerns. “It combines powerhouse ingredients, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and azelaic acid to clear the skin of acne and help with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and texture. Despite having powerful ingredients, this cleanser does not dry out or strip the skin.”
Pros: Anti-inflammatory; contains azelaic acid and salicylic acid to help with acne
Cons: Expensive
With five stars across every retailer, iS Clinical is a cleanser worth the splurge. It combines physical and chemical exfoliants to soak up oil, exfoliate away dead skin cells, and reveal a brighter, fresher complexion. It can be a little harsh, so I recommend starting out using it once every other day and working your way up.
Pros: Combines AHAs and BHAs; pleasant fresh smell
Cons: Too harsh for some
The Best Face Wash for Combination Skin
Combination skin is a little tricky. While you might find your T-zone—forehead, nose, chin—oily, your cheeks can be dry. Your skin’s balance can fluctuate with season, stress, or even hormonal changes. Finding the best cleanser for this skin type is more about texture than ingredients. “Gel, foaming, and oil-based formulas can work well, as they are able to balance cleansing oilier areas without over-drying other areas of the face,” says Dr. Rambhia.
“This ultra gentle cleanser transforms from a gel into a lather, making it a great option for both oily or dry skin,” explains Dr. Zeichner. “Enriched with ceramides, it hydrates and protects the outer skin layer while removing dirt and soiling from the skin.” I promise: You’ll love this cleanser’s texture as much as the price point.
Pros: Affordable; contains ceramides for hydration
Cons: Has a strong smell
If you deal with little red dots around your T-Zone, reach for a cleanser infused with benzoyl peroxide, which has anti-bacterial properties. “For those with combination skin and more congestion, gentle exfoliating washes,” says Dr. Finney. He loves this Cetaphil option thanks to its ability to address oily spots without irritated drier patches. For a short-term treatment, let the cleanser sit on your skin for a few minutes before rinsing.
Pros: Can double as a treatment; contains benzoyl peroxide as a treatment
Cons: Might be too irritating if you’re really sensitive
This unique oil-to-gel texture is a dead giveaway that this face wash was made with combination skin in mind. “It first gently lifts away excess sebum, make-up, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants,” says Dr. Rambhia. “Once water is added, the oil forms a milky emulsion that washes away impurities. It can gently remove excess oil while not drying out drier portions of the face.”
Pros: Removes sunscreen and makeup
Cons: Some find the texture too oily
There’s a reason all dermatologists love CeraVe—the no-fuss formulas have been rigorously tested to be compatible with a range of skin types. “This cleanser helps to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup while still hydrating the skin with moisturizing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide,” explains Dr. Rambhia. “It too offers the perfect balance of cleansing excess oil, while optimally maintaining hydration of the skin.”
Pros: Doesn’t strip skin; contains hydrating ingredients without oils
Cons: Won’t help control or treat oil
The Best Face Wash for Normal Skin
Normal skin types are like the favorite child. Overall, you’ll be well-balanced; not too oily and not too dry. “Those with normal skin typically have smaller pores with an overall smooth skin texture and are not specifically prone to acen breakouts or sensitive skin,” says Dr. Rambhia. As such, picking a cleanser is pretty simple. Pick a no-fuss option with whatever texture you prefer.
Eucerin is one my personal favorite drugstore brands; their products are typically eczema-safe and non-irritating. “This foaming gel cleanser can be used by all skin types, making it my pick for people with normal skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. “It uses gentle cleansing surfactants and hyaluronic acid to offer hydrating and plumping effects in addition to washing the face.”
Pros: Good for all skin types; gentle; adds hydration
Cons: Some find the bottle to be a bit too long
A tried and true brand, Kiehls excels at creating well-tolerated skin care that works for everyone. “This is able to maintain that perfect balance of cleansing and moisturizing normal skin. It contains hydrating ingredients like squalene, glycerin, and avocado oil that hydrate and nourish the skin,” says Dr. Rambhia. It also removes makeup easily, which is an added bonus.
Pros: Removes makeup easily; has a slew of hydrating ingredients
Cons: None
As someone with sensitive skin, I can confirm that this is as non-irritating and pleasant on the skin as it gets. At the same time, I have friends with oily or acne-prone skin that swear it by it. It’s really a catch-all. The star ingredient, orange oil, calms and soothes irritated skin, making this a great pick for people experiencing redness.
Pros: Works for everyone; large bottle that lasts a while
Cons: Expensive
With a large TikTok fandom behind it, Kate Sommerville’s daily cleanser is worth the hype. It is suitable for normal skin types and will actively improve any skin issue that may arise. Sulfur, an antibacterial ingredient, can help with breakouts, excess oil, and skin reactions. Essentially, it keeps normal skin normal.
Pros: Contains sulfur as an active ingredient
Cons: Expensive
Meet the Dermatologists
Dr. Joshua Zeichner is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He is one of the country's key opinion leaders in treating acne and rosacea, and is an expert in cosmeceuticals, skin care, and cosmetic Dermatology.
Pooja H. Rambhia, M.D. is a dermatologist, who is currently completing her American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) accredited Cosmetic and Dermatologic Surgery Fellowship at UnionDerm.
Dr. Rambhia is a Long Island, NY native who received her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in biochemistry and her Doctorate of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, through their prestigious BA/MD pre-professional scholars program. During her medical school training, she completed an additional pre-doctoral fellowship through the National Institute of Health T32 training grant in investigative and molecular dermatology.
Dr. Rambhia has published numerous peer-reviewed papers in high-impact journals including Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, Dermatologic Surgery and International Journal of Dermatology. She has also presented on several national meetings including the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS) annual meeting, American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting, and ASDS annual meeting.
Dr. Rambhia is an active member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, and Women’s Dermatologic Society.
Robert Finney, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, Fellowship-Trained in Hair Restoration and Aesthetics. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Dr. Finney completed his undergraduate and medical degrees at Pennsylvania State University. He completed his internship and dermatology residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA where he served as chief resident during his final year. Following his residency, he completed an advanced fellowship in aesthetics, hair restoration, and skin surgery with renowned hair surgeon Dr. Marc Avram in New York City. Dr. Finney has authored several peer-reviewed articles and book chapters on hair loss. He frequently lectures both nationally and internationally on the topic, leading him to be sought after by major media outlets to share his expertise on skin and hair.
Dr. Nina Desai is a board certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist. She received both her undergraduate degree and medical degree from Brown University, working under some of the smartest minds in medicine. Her passion to understand skin disease and how the skin heals led her to pursue research fellowships at both Harvard University, and Cornell University where she published numerous papers and book chapters on skin cancer and skin diseases, in particular in skin of color.
She understands that the world of skin and beauty is continually evolving and she is committed to keeping up to date on all that is changing in dermatology and aesthetic medicine. She is a member of many relevant national and international organizations including the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, American Academy of Dermatology, and Women’s Dermatologic Society.
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