Best Gentle Face Cleansers (2026) Reviewed
Finding a cleanser that removes dirt and makeup without stripping your skin is harder than it sounds. These are the best gentle face cleansers for sensitive, dry, and reactive skin types—organized by budget and skin concern.
What to Look For
- pH Balance — Look for cleansers with a pH between 4.5-6.5 to avoid disrupting your skin’s acid mantle
- Fragrance-Free Formula — Fragrances are a common irritant; avoid them if your skin is reactive or sensitized
- Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid — These ingredients help maintain moisture and support the skin barrier during cleansing
- Sulfate-Free Surfactants — Sulfates can be harsh; gentler alternatives like sodium cocoyl isethionate clean effectively without stripping
- Non-Foaming vs. Foaming — Non-foaming cream cleansers tend to be gentler; foaming options work better for oily or combination skin
- Dermatologist Testing — Look for products tested on sensitive skin or approved by organizations like the National Eczema Association
Best Gentle Face Cleansers
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser — Best Overall
- [ HYDRATING FACE WASH ] Daily face wash with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to help hydrate skin without stripping moisture. Removes face makeup, dirt, and excess oil, provides 24-hour hydration and leaves a moisturized, non-greasy feel.
- [ ECZEMA FACE WASH ] Non-foaming cleanser for dry skin with a lotion-like consistency feels smooth as it cleanses, even on sensitive, dry skin. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic and non-drying. Certified by the National Eczema Association
- [ MULTI-USE GENTLE CLEANSER ] Cream cleanser for face and/or body and can be used as a hand wash. Suitable for daily cleansing morning (AM) and night (PM) for normal to dry skin. Skin care for dry skin.
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products, formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
- [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS & #1 DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED SKINCARE BRAND ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more.
CeraVe’s non-foaming formula delivers the ideal balance of effective cleansing and barrier protection for most skin types.
This cleanser uses three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate while removing dirt and makeup. The creamy, lotion-like texture feels soothing rather than stripping. CeraVe’s patented MVE technology releases moisturizing ingredients throughout the day.
- Pros:
- Contains ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II plus hyaluronic acid
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance
- Works on face, body, and hands
- Excellent value per ounce
- Cons:
- Non-foaming texture takes adjustment
- May not remove heavy makeup completely
Best for: Anyone wanting a reliable daily cleanser that won’t compromise the moisture barrier.
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser — Best for Ultra-Sensitive Skin
- Our mildest cleanser specifically formulated for daily facial use.
- Helps remove makeup and excess skin oils without drying your skin.
- Leaves skin feeling clean and soft.
- Ideal for dry skin.
Vanicream strips away everything that could irritate sensitive skin while still getting the job done.
This cleanser contains one of the shortest ingredient lists you’ll find in a facial cleanser. It’s free from dyes, fragrance, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde releasers, and botanical extracts. The National Eczema Association has awarded it their Seal of Acceptance.
- Pros:
- Minimal ingredient list reduces irritation risk
- National Eczema Association approved
- Convenient pump dispenser
- Soap-free and sulfate-free
- Cons:
- No added beneficial ingredients like ceramides
- Basic formula without extra skincare benefits
Best for: Those with eczema, rosacea, or extreme sensitivity who need the gentlest possible formula.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser — Best for Dry Skin
- Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is a clinically proven daily face wash for normal to dry, sensitive skin that hydrates and restores the skin barrier while gently cleansing
- Formulated with La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal spring water, niacinamide, and ceramide-3, this face wash gently cleanses skin of dirt, makeup, and impurities while maintaining skin's natural moisture barrier and pH
- Its gentle cream formula helps restore skin comfort and while protecting the skin barrier by retaining essential moisture, leaving the skin feeling comfortable and hydrated
- Soap Free; Oil Free; Fragrance Free; Non comedogenic; Allergy tested; Paraben Free; Dermatologist Tested; Clinically Proven
- Formulated with ceramides to restore moisture and a healthy skin barrier and niacinamide to soothe and visibly fade skin discolorations
La Roche-Posay combines French pharmacy expertise with skin-loving ingredients for a cleanser that leaves dry skin comfortable.
Formulated with prebiotic thermal spring water, niacinamide, ceramide-3, and glycerin, this cream cleanser maintains the skin barrier while removing impurities. The gentle formula works well around the eye area and won’t leave skin feeling tight.
- Pros:
- Contains niacinamide and ceramides
- Prebiotic thermal water supports skin microbiome
- Safe for use around eyes
- Sulfate-free and soap-free
- Cons:
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Cream texture may feel heavy for oily skin
Best for: Dry and normal skin types seeking hydration during cleansing.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser — Best Budget
- CETAPHIL GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER: Clinically proven to cleanse while hydrating, providing 48 hours of hydration when wiped off versus rinsing
- IDEAL FOR DRY TO NORMAL, SENSITIVE SKIN: Hydrates and soothes as it cleanses, preserving skin's moisture barrier, even after repeat washes
- NEW AND IMPROVED INGREDIENT BLEND: Now with hydrating glycerin and skin essential vitamins B5 (panthenol) and B3 (niacinamide)
- DEVELOPED FOR EVEN THE MOST SENSITIVE SKIN: The hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic formula is free of fragrances, parabens and sulfates
- DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED for Sensitive Skin: Enriched with glycerin, panthenol (B5), niacinamide (B3) to hydrate, protect, and support a healthy skin barrier
The original gentle cleanser that dermatologists have recommended for decades remains a solid choice at an unbeatable price.
Cetaphil’s updated formula now includes glycerin, panthenol (vitamin B5), and niacinamide (vitamin B3). It uses micellar technology to lift away dirt and makeup while providing 48 hours of hydration when wiped off rather than rinsed.
- Pros:
- Updated formula with B vitamins
- Can be used with or without water
- Large bottle offers excellent value
- Clinically tested for sensitive skin
- Cons:
- Non-foaming texture isn’t for everyone
- Some prefer the original formula
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want proven gentle cleansing.
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser — Best Drugstore Option
No products found.
Neutrogena’s creamy non-foaming formula cleans thoroughly while leaving skin moisturized and soft.
This cleanser uses a unique polyglycerin formula that nourishes skin during cleansing. It’s formulated with minimal ingredients and works well for those with acne, eczema, or rosacea. The creamy texture removes oil, dirt, and makeup without disrupting the moisture barrier.
- Pros:
- Dermatologist-developed formula
- Works for acne, eczema, and rosacea
- Oil-free and soap-free
- No essential oils or common allergens
- Cons:
- Creamy texture may not feel “clean” to some
- Pump can be finicky
Best for: Sensitive skin types looking for an affordable, widely available option.
First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser — Best Clean Beauty
- Gentle Clean: Our sulfate-free and fragrance-free cleanser is strong enough to remove makeup, dirt, oil and grime without leaving your skin tight or dry
- Antioxidant-Infused: Our powerful botanical antioxidant blend helps protect your skin while reducing irritation and inflammation
- pH-Balanced: Pure Skin Face Cleanser works to maintain skin’s natural acidity and helps reduce flare ups, making it perfect for dry, normal or combination skin types
- Free From: Drying Alcohols, Artificial Colorants, Artificial Fragrance, Lanolin, Mineral Oil, Parabens, Petrolatum, Phthalates, Propylene Glycol, Sulfates, Talc, Formaldehydes, Oxybenzone, Coal Tar, Triclocarbon, Ethanol
- Dermatologist Tested: Our cruelty-free Cleanser is also vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free, silicone-free, safe for sensitive skin and nano-free
First Aid Beauty delivers a clean formula packed with antioxidants while keeping sensitive skin happy.
This pH-balanced cleanser features FAB’s proprietary antioxidant blend including feverfew, white tea, and licorice root. It’s free from a long list of potential irritants including sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances. The creamy texture removes makeup without leaving skin dry.
- Pros:
- Antioxidant-rich formula
- Vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free
- Free from 11+ common irritants
- pH-balanced formula
- Cons:
- Smaller bottle size
- Premium pricing
Best for: Those who prioritize clean beauty without sacrificing efficacy.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser — Best for Double Cleansing
- MOISTURIZING ALL-IN-ONE CLEANSER: Squalane Cleanser removes makeup and dirt while supporting your skin’s moisture barrier through hydration.
- GENTLE & NON-COMEDOGENIC: Soap-free formula that is gentle enough for daily use, suitable for all skin types, and won’t clog pores. Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
- PLANT-DERIVED SQUALANE: Contains plant-derived squalane and lipophilic esters to leave skin feeling smooth and soft while dissolving makeup.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Dispense into hands, rub to warm the product, and massage onto dry face. Rinse with warm water. Patch test before use.
- FREE FROM: Cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan, alcohol-free, oil-free, and silicone-free formulation.
This balm-to-oil cleanser melts away makeup and sunscreen while leaving skin hydrated and smooth.
The Ordinary’s Squalane Cleanser transforms from a balm to an oil when warmed between palms, then emulsifies with water for easy rinsing. Plant-derived squalane moisturizes while lipophilic esters dissolve makeup and impurities. It’s non-comedogenic and soap-free.
- Pros:
- Excellent makeup and sunscreen removal
- National Eczema Association accepted
- Hydrating squalane formula
- Budget-friendly for a cleansing balm
- Cons:
- Requires warming between hands
- Best as first step in double cleanse
Best for: Makeup wearers who want thorough cleansing without stripping moisture.
Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser — Best Oat-Based Formula
- Gentle yet effective cleanser: This milky, non-foaming daily hydrating face wash lifts away dirt and impurities while helping calm, smooth, and support the skin’s natural moisture barrier with nourishing oat and calming feverfew
- Daily hydrating facial cleanser: Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free formula cleanses sensitive, dry skin without over-drying; nourishing oat and calming feverfew help maintain hydration and comfort, leaving skin soft after each wash
- For sensitive skin: Nourishing oat and calming feverfew gently cleanses to calm, smooth, and restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier in each 7.8 fl oz bottle; dermatologist recommended brand and clinically proven gentle on eczema-prone skin
- Cleanses and Hydrates: Free from parabens, phthalates, alcohol, dyes, and fragrances; this hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic milky cleanser supports the skin’s moisture barrier while delivering a gentle, daily hydrating clean for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist recommended brand: 7.8 fl oz bottle made with at least 30% post-consumer recycled plastic; from a dermatologist-recommended brand for over 70 years to calm, restore, and hydrate sensitive skin with every wash
Aveeno harnesses the soothing power of oat to calm and cleanse irritated, sensitive skin.
This milky gel cleanser combines nourishing oat with calming feverfew to preserve the skin’s moisture barrier while lifting away impurities. The gentle formula is clinically proven to be suitable for eczema-prone skin when used with the matching moisturizer.
- Pros:
- Oat-based formula soothes irritation
- Contains hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Free from fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and dyes
- Bottle made with recycled plastic
- Cons:
- Milky texture may not remove heavy makeup
- Some prefer a foaming cleanser
Best for: Irritated or inflamed skin that needs calming during cleansing.
EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser — Best Dermatologist-Recommended
- GENTLE CLEANSING: EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is a foam face wash that offers gentle cleansing for oily skin. This face cleanser for women and men removes makeup, oil, and impurities for a refreshed feel.
- REDUCED: This sensitive face wash with enzyme and amino acid blend minimizes skin. It acts as an acne control cleanser and removes pollutants for a healthier complexion.
- OXYGEN INFUSION: With this oil free face wash, enjoy cleaner, balanced skin with this foaming cleanser. It infuses micro-massaging bubbles for better oxygen penetration, making it a great face wash for women with sensitive skin.
- SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: This facial wash is ideal for sensitive face wash use, it's gentle on all skin types, including acne-prone skin. This facial cleanser for women and men reduces irritation after use.
- NON-CLOGGING MOISTURE: This gentle face wash sensitive skin offers oil-free hydration without clogging pores or irritating sensitive skin. It's the ideal hydrating face wash for oily skin that is also paraben-free.
EltaMD’s gentle foaming formula delivers dermatologist-grade cleansing with enzyme exfoliation.
This oil-free cleanser uses bromelain, a pineapple-derived enzyme, to gently exfoliate while removing pollutants and impurities. The self-foaming technology creates a light lather without harsh surfactants. It’s pH-balanced and safe for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone.
- Pros:
- Gentle enzymatic exfoliation
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-developed formula
- Protects against environmental pollutants
- Cons:
- Higher price point
- Contains fragrance (though minimal)
Best for: Those who want gentle exfoliation in their daily cleanser.
Verdict
For most people, the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser offers the best combination of effective cleansing, skin barrier support, and value. If you have extremely reactive skin or eczema, Vanicream’s stripped-down formula minimizes irritation risk. For dry skin that needs extra hydration, La Roche-Posay Toleriane delivers premium ingredients at a reasonable price.
