Facial Cleansers

Face washes come in a variety of textures and formulations to address specific skin concerns. Different types of cleansers include:

• Foaming cleansers will clear the skin of excess sebum, impurities and dirt. They're able to go deeper into the pores for a stronger cleanse.
• Water-based cleanser cleanses the skin of water-soluble impurities like sweat and dirt without clogging pores. Water-based cleansers are often better for oily skin.
• Gel cleansers have a thicker texture to foaming cleansers, providing a lighter, gentler cleanse.
• Purifying/exfoliating cleansers help gently dissolve bonds between dead skin cells to unclog pores and reveal smoother skin.
• Oil cleanser gently cleanses the skin without affecting the skin moisture barrier, while also removing oil-based products.
• Micellar water cleanser is infused with tiny beads called “micelles” to both cleanse the skin and remove makeup.

SkinCeuticals' face cleansers range from cream cleansers, exfoliating cleansers, gels and more. Explore the Gentle Cream Cleanser for daily use, suitable for all skin types.

Cleanser for oily and blemish-prone skin

For oily skin types, look for a foaming cleanser containing chemical exfoliants, like glycolic acid or salicylic acid, that help to remove impurities and excess oil. The Blemish and Age Cleansing Gel, formulated with a skin-conditioning surfactant along with a 12% concentration of lipo-hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, glycerin, and sorbitol to unclog pores and brighten the skin.

Cleanser for dry skin

A gentle, hydrating cleanser with a creamy texture is best for dry skin that may find other cleansers strip the skin of its moisture barrier. The Gentle Cream Cleanser is a mild, creamy, non-foaming facial cleanser that effectively removes impurities and long-wear makeup without leaving the skin feeling tight.

Cleanser for sensitive skin

The best face wash for sensitive skin types is a simple, fragrance- and soap-free cleanser. Sensitive, mildly compromised skin can use the Soap Free Foaming Cleanser, a hydrating formula rich in antioxidants to comfort the skin.

What is the best face wash for men?

Men's skin tends to be tougher and oilier, with larger pores that are more prone to clogging. For more robust men's skin, a gentle exfoliating cleanser, like the Glycolic Renewal Foaming Facial Cleanser, can help unclog pores and remove excess oil to reveal smoother skin.

It's recommended to use face cleansers twice daily. Even dry skin types should wash their face twice a day to prevent the buildup of dirt and dead skin cells that can clog pores and irritate the skin. If you’re worried about drying out the skin, instead of skipping cleanser, opt for a gentle cream cleanser.

To use a cleanser, first rinse your face in lukewarm water. Use a coin sized amount of the cleanser or face wash suited to your skin type, and gently massage into your skin in circular motion to form a lather. Massage the cleanser for 30 secs or more before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Gently pat dry the skin without tugging or pulling on the skin.

Yes, but it's usually not recommended to use a face cleanser on the body as it may not have the desired effect. Skin on the face is more sensitive than the skin on the body, so face cleansers are much gentler than body cleansers. A face cleanser might not work as well on tougher skin on the body, and a body cleanser might be too harsh on the face.

Yes, you need to rinse off a cleansing as leaving it on may cause irritation or dryness. Gently massage the cleanser into the skin for 30-60 seconds before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water. Gently pat dry with a clean face towel.