Best Facial Cleansers For Each Skin Type

There is no universal “perfect cleanser,” because different types require different formulas. We cover dry skin, oily skin, and everything in between. 

The folks at Goodfind Guru have put together a comprehensive list of some of the most beloved and effective cleansers on the market for every skin type.

Every single step of your skin care regimen should be reflected by your skin type and skin care concerns. If you’re going to use rich and emollient moisturizers on oily skin and lightweight lotions on dry skin then you’re going to run into problems. Cleansing is no exception and whilst we all want that squeaky clean feeling, not every cleanser suits all.

Cleansers are there to rid your skin of any impurities, including makeup, dead skin cells, grime, pollution, product build-up, and excess oils. Due to the cleaning effect on skin, some cleansers can be drying and it’s important you choose a cleanser to match your skin type, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin. Cleansers can also add extra nourishment to your skin, so some ultra-rich cleansers for dry skin may be too heavy for oilier complexions.

We’ve got the rundown on all the best cleansers, so no matter your skin type, you can make sure that you’re giving your skin exactly what it needs whilst maintaining a cleansed complexion.

Oily Skin
Indicators: Large, visible pores and a greasy sheen that develops quickly after you’ve cleansed.

What to Look for: An oil-control face wash that digs deep to purify pores (ones with charcoal are highly effective), and helps regulate oil production without leaving your face feeling dry. A formula that balances pH will also slow the growth of bacteria and help prevent breakouts.

Dry Skin
Indicators: Your skin is often itchy, flaky, or generally tight.

What to Look for: A cleanser that clears away grime and impurities without stripping skin of its natural oils. A hydrating face wash (especially those made with glycerin or essential oils) should do the trick, and look for soap-free formulas wherever possible.

Sensitive Skin
Indicators: Your skin is often red—especially after shaving or cleansing—and prone to irritation.

What to Look for: Cleansers with dense, creamy foams and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, willow bark, and witch hazel. Balancing pH is also important, as skin can get dry or irritated when its pH is out of whack. If possible, avoid heavily sudsy products (less creamy, more bubbly).

Normal Skin
Indicators: An even skin tone with no flaking, redness, or sheen, and only the occasional breakout.

What to Look for: Honestly, just about anything—your skin isn’t picky. We recommend potent (yet non-drying) cleansers with a range of bonus perks: antiaging, toning, and hydrating ingredients are all a major plus.

Combination Skin
Indicators: An oily T-Zone (your forehead, nose, and chin) alongside drier skin on your cheeks.

What to Look for: A formula that balances a thorough clean with a healthy dose of hydration. Like a cleanser for dry skin, it should clear away oil and grime without stripping skin of moisture. The ideal is a face wash that protects skin’s lipid barrier, locking in natural moisture while cleansing surface oil.

Best cleanser for dry skin: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser

Due to the nature of their purpose, cleansers can be incredibly drying to skin and remove a little too much, leaving skin feeling dehydrated and tight. Those with dry skin need to make sure they’re using a cleanser which is rich and nourishing, without removing any essential oils. The Fresh Soy Face Cleanser gently removes impurities from the skin without stripping it back or leaving it feeling uncomfortable. Rich in amino acids, borage seed oil, and rosewater to calm, balance, and strengthen the skin, this is the perfect choice for dry skin types.

Best cleanser for oily skin: Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil

If you have oily skin, you may think to avoid cleansing oils is the best way to go but actually, these lightweight cleansers are the perfect choice for oily complexions as they can dissolve excess oils like no other. In fact, anything too drying may cause your skin to produce even more oils. The Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil is one of the most effective available,, removing every scrap of makeup and every impurity to enjoy a fresher complexion in no time.

Best cleanser for sensitive skin: REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk

If you have a sensitive complexion, you need to be particularly careful with cleansers as the abrasive formulas can cause irritation. The REN Evercalm range has been developed with sensitive skin in mind as it helps to soothe irritation and calm redness. The range has expanded over the years and now features this stunning Gentle Cleansing Milk, a cleanser soft enough for sensitive skin types. Containing fennel seed extract to neutralize pollution and de-stress skin, omega 3 and 7 to boost hydration and calendula oil to heal skin, the Gentle Cleansing Milk has all the ingredients you need for cleansing sensitive skin.

Best cleanser for aging skin: Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel

Don’t just stop at night serums and eye creams when it comes to building your anti-aging routine, the Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel has extra anti-aging benefits for when you cleanse your skin. Enriched with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, fruit extracts, and white oak bark, the powerful cleanser helps to resurface skin and accelerate skin cell turnover for a brighter, smoother, and more youthful looking complexion with every cleanse.