The 15 Best Face Washes for Women in 2026

We Tested Over 100 Cleansers to Find the Best Face Wash for Women

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Cleansers set the stage for the rest of a skin care routine, so it’s important to find one that works for your skin type. And because this is a safe space, it’s okay to admit if you’ve ever been overwhelmed by the sheer amount of face washes for women on the market.

Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s easier to pick a cleanser simply because the packaging is pretty. You’re in the right place to learn about the cleansers that are right for you, because not all face washes for women are created equal, and not all ingredients will suit your skin.

“The best cleanser is one you’ll actually use consistently,” says Sarah Allen, MD, a board-certified physician in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, and founder and chief medical officer of Skin Clique. “Skin health is health; it’s about maintaining the integrity of your barrier every day, not chasing trends. A simple, science-backed routine is always more effective than an overly complicated one.”

To bring you the best face washes for women, we tested more than 100 cleansers across every price point and texture — gels, balms, powders, oils, and more — and spoke with skin care experts to find out what works. Keep reading to learn more about our favorite picks.

Our Top Picks for Best Face Wash for Women

face wash

Best Oil Cleanser

One Love Botanical B Enzyme Cleansing Oil

Pros

  • Gently lifts makeup, sunscreen, dirt
  • Hydrates skin
  • Made with soothing ingredients

    Cons

    • Some people may not like a fruity scent
    • May feel heavy for some people

    Key Specs

    • Type: Oil-based cleanser
    • Key ingredients: Papaya, pumpkin, and sunflower seed oils; papain; natural vitamin B complex
    • Fragrance: Yes, contains natural fragrance

    I tested this One Love Organics cleansing oil and love how it effortlessly melts away makeup and sunscreen, leaving my skin feeling clean and hydrated. I’m not usually drawn to scented products, but this one uses natural fragrances, and the subtle, citrusy pineapple scent is refreshing and light, never cloying or artificial.

    You’ve likely heard that oil is the enemy of clear skin, but it’s far from the truth. In fact, dry skin needs oil, and oil-based cleansers can be beneficial for sensitive skin.

    “For patients with dry or sensitive skin, I prefer oil-based cleansers because they offer the same deep-cleaning benefits but are often lighter and leave no residue,” says James Y. Wang, MD, a dermatologist and founder of Metropolis Dermatology in Southern California.

    Made with organic ingredients and suitable for sensitive skin, this cleanser has become a favorite in my routine. It contains papain, a fruit enzyme that may help exfoliate and soften skin, and vitamin B complex to purify and tone the skin.

     

    I love it so much that I sometimes dab a little on after washing my face for an extra hit of hydration.

    Best for All Skin Types

    Tatcha The Rice Wash

    $38 at Amazon
    $40Now 5% Off

    Pros

    • Foams nicely
    • Doesn’t strip skin
    • Gently exfoliates

      Cons

      • Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin
      • Higher price point than most others on the list

      Key Specs

      • Type: Cream cleanser
      • Key ingredients: Red algae, hyaluronic acid, Japanese rice powder
      • Fragrance: Yes
      This rice wash cleanser is versatile enough for most people. The first thing you’ll notice about it (beyond the pretty purple tube) is its creamy texture that foams into a rich lather. The Japanese rice powder softens skin, and it has a pH-neutral base to deeply cleanse without stripping the skin, so it shouldn’t feel tight after rinsing.

      “This comes out pretty thick and has a slight gritty texture (but not to the extent that it’s an exfoliant),” says editor Ashley Ziegler, adding the product “lathers up really well and is easy to rub into the skin.”

      face cleansing powder

      Best for Large Pores

      Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore-Minimizing and Polishing Powder Cleanser

      Pros

      • Refines pores with Amazonian white clay
      • Leaves skin smoother, less oily without feeling stripped
      • Travel-friendly, water-activated powder formula

        Cons

        • Some reviewers note the product feels cheap because it’s so light
        • Can be messy

        Key Specs

        • Type: Powder
        • Key ingredients: AHAs, Amazonian white clay, microcrystalline cellulose grains
        • Fragrance: No
        This Kiehl’s Rare Earth powder cleanser has several ingredients to reduce the look of large pores and remove buildup without harming your skin. Amazonian white clay absorbs excess oil and detoxifies pores.

        Microcrystalline cellulose grains (tiny pieces of wood pulp fiber) smooth skin, and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) refine texture.

        “I like the diversity of being able to make it a gritty exfoliant or a creamier cleanser,” says Catherine Brown, an herbologist who tested this product. (The texture depends on how much water you add to the powder formula.)

        It also received high praise from her boyfriend, who appreciated how “quick and easy” it was to rinse off — “just three splashes of water over the sink and done,” which is perfect for people who see washing their face as more of a chore than self-care. 

        face oil cleanser

        Best Oil-to-Foam

        Laneige Perfect Renew Oil-to-Foam Cleanser

        Pros

        • Suitable for all skin types
        • Doesn’t leave skin feeling tight
        • 2-in-1 cleanser (oil and foam)

          Cons

          • Vitamin C can be irritating to some

          Key Specs

          • Type: Oil-to-foam cleanser
          • Key ingredients: Vitamin C, jojoba oil, evening primrose oil, green tea seed oil, marula oil, argan oil
          • Fragrance: Yes

          The Laneige Perfect Renew Oil-to-Foam Cleanser feels light and luxurious. It starts as a silky oil that melts away sunscreen and makeup, then transforms into a light foam that leaves your skin feeling clean and balanced, kind of like a double cleanse in one.

          The formula contains vitamin C for a brightening effect.

           It also includes several rich plant oils; RE.D Flavonoid, a patented proprietary blend of flavonoids (plant compounds) that boosts glow; soothing oils; and micelles, which gently but effectively remove makeup and oil.

          Lindsay Modglin, a former nurse and health writer, says her “face felt clean and fairly soft, without the tightness some cleansers leave behind.” We also appreciate the packaging, which comes in a sturdy pump bottle that looks elevated. 

          Best for Rosacea

          CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

          $11.75 at Amazon
          $15.99Now 27% Off

          Pros

          • Accessible price point
          • Helps restore and maintain skin’s natural barrier
          • Fragrance-free, doesn’t clog pores
          • Accepted by National Eczema Association 

            Cons

            • Some reviewers needed a double cleanse to fully remove makeup

            Key Specs

            • Type: Cleansing lotion
            • Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides
            • Fragrance: No

            CeraVe is a standout brand when it comes to sensitive skin. This cleanser holds the National Eczema Association (NEA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning it’s safe and effective for eczema-prone or very sensitive skin.

            For sensitive skin, William Kwan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology in Beverly Hills, California, says he recommends nondrying lotion or cream-based cleansers. “They take a little getting used to since they don’t foam. Foaming face washes could strip the natural oils from your skin, leading to more dryness. Cetaphil and CeraVe are good, affordable brands,” he says.

            In addition to hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help keep skin hydrated, this formula contains ceramides, which Kwan says can help restore lost lipids from the skin, maintaining your skin’s barrier.


            face wash

            Best Gentle

            SEEN Face Wash

            Pros

            • Won’t clog pores
            • Designed for sensitive, acne- or eczema-prone skin
            • Contains moisturizing ingredients

              Cons

              • Takes a bit to lather

              Key Specs

              • Type: Gel-to-foam cleanser
              • Key ingredients: Bisabolol, glycerin, squalane
              • Fragrance: No

              This dermatologist-created product keeps sensitive skin in mind. It helps remove makeup and other grime from the day while remaining gentle. We love that it doesn’t contain any fragrances and includes nourishing ingredients.

              Squalane is known for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties, which help skin look smoother and more even — something our science and health journalist Malissa Rodenburg noticed.

              “I loved the texture of my skin after washing with this product,” she raves. “My skin felt soft, smooth, clean, and calm. I could tell throughout the day that where I used this product versus where I didn’t (my face and not my neck, for example).” Rodenburg says this product improved her eczema, too.

              The formula also contains bisabolol, which Kathleen Hamilton, certified esthetician and education director at Woodhouse Spa in Cincinnati, says can calm and comfort the skin.

              Best for Acne

              La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

              $18.99 at Amazon

              Pros

              • Helps clear breakouts and exfoliates
              • Reduces oil on the skin’s surface
              • Noncomedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores

              Cons

              • May be drying to some

              Key Specs

              • Type: Gel
              • Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, lipohydroxy acid
              • Fragrance: No

              “If someone is breakout-prone, a low-percentage salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cleanser used a few times a week can help keep pores clear without overdrying,” Dr. Allen says.

              The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser contains 2 percent salicylic acid, which dissolves oil and dead skin cells inside the pore, reducing blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. This is the formula I turn to at the slightest hint of a breakout, or if I start noticing blackheads creeping in.

              At the same time, the inclusion of lipohydroxy acid (LHA) helps refine skin texture and smooth the surface of the skin without relying on rough physical exfoliants, which could make acne worse.


              cleanser

              Best Hydrating

              Rhode Pineapple Refresh PGA Daily Cleanser

              Pros

              • Rinses clean
              • Leaves skin feeling moisturized
              • Innovative ingredients

                Cons

                • Some reviewers say it’s not the best at removing waterproof formulas

                Key Specs

                • Type: Balm-to-foam cleanser
                • Key ingredients: Polyglutamic acid, pineapple enzyme, green tea extract, next-gen hyaluronic acid
                • Fragrance: No

                Rhode is an Instagrammable celebrity beauty brand brought to us by Hailey Bieber. While you might feel tempted to write it off as just another celeb launch, the products really deliver.

                The Rhode Pineapple Refresh PGA Daily Cleanser features moisturizing ingredients, next-gen hyaluronic acid (which has a low molecular weight for better skin penetration), glycerin, and more, which help hydrate and plump the skin. It also features pineapple enzyme to gently exfoliate and smooth the texture.

                The product itself has a poppy yellow hue (no dyes, though!) that makes it fun to use. “It’s a creamy balm — an opaque, glittery amber-yellow color,” says health and science writer Mary Dennis. “I found the color, the mild soapy scent, and the way it lathered very pleasant. My face felt soft, smooth, and deeply hydrated. It removed all makeup, sunscreen, and grime from the day without stripping my skin at all.”

                We liked how the cleanser didn’t have a lingering scent or residue. “Just clean, supple skin that felt deliciously moisturized,” Dennis adds.

                face ash

                Best Vitamin C

                TruSkin Vitamin C Brightening Cleanser

                Pros

                • Helps brighten and even skin tone
                • Easily removes makeup
                • Contains additional ingredients, like vitamin E

                  Cons

                  • Vitamin C can be irritating to some

                  Key Specs

                  • Type: Gel
                  • Key ingredients: Vitamin C
                  • Fragrance: No

                  This gentle yet effective cleanser brightens and refreshes without the sting, itch, or dryness some vitamin C products can cause. We like how it left our skin feeling soft, smooth, and balanced.

                  Writer Erin Heger noticed “a slight fading of some discoloration and sunspots. I like that it is lightweight, feels smooth on the skin, and leaves my skin feeling clean and nourished. I also like that it did not irritate my skin or make my breakouts worse, as some vitamin C products do.”

                  It’s a great option for those who want a radiant, even-toned complexion without sacrificing gentleness.

                  face wash

                  Best Powder

                  Jaxon Lane Shake and Wake Enzyme Powder Face Wash

                  Pros

                  • Travel-friendly
                  • Lightweight
                  • Contains potent ingredients

                    Cons

                    • Can be messy
                    • Some do not like having to mix their face wash with water

                    Key Specs

                    • Type: Powder
                    • Key ingredients: Pineapple and papaya enzymes, niacinamide
                    • Fragrance: No

                    Technically, this face wash is for men — but don’t be surprised if you end up borrowing it for yourself. This clever water-activated powder cleanser transforms into a smooth, creamy lather that leaves skin feeling refreshed and polished, never stripped.

                    “The lather on this face wash is smooth; even though it says it’s exfoliating, you don’t feel like you’re rubbing a pumice stone on your face,” says Katie Tuttle, an editor who answered on behalf of her boyfriend, who tested the cleanser. “It’s very gentle.”

                    Dr. Wang says powder cleansers are a fantastic addition to a skin care routine. “They’re travel-friendly, gentle, and often contain natural enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells without harsh scrubbing.” Plus, because they’re anhydrous (water-free), they require fewer preservatives, making them a great pick for sensitive skin.

                    This formula contains niacinamide, which our experts sing the praises of. “Niacinamide, ceramides, and glycerin are all great barrier-supporting ingredients. They help the skin retain moisture and calm inflammation,” Allen says. The skin’s natural barrier can get damaged from too dry or humid environments, pollution, or sun exposure.


                    cleanser

                    Best Brightening

                    Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser

                    Pros

                    • Gentle enough for all skin types
                    • Antioxidant-rich
                    • Helps control oiliness

                    Cons

                    • Not gluten-free

                    Key Specs

                    • Type: Gel
                    • Key ingredients: Strawberry seed oil, tomato extract, hydrolyzed wheat protein
                    • Fragrance: Yes, natural fragrance

                    The Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser contains ingredients that sound like they came straight from a summer garden — strawberry seed oil, tomato extract, and hydrolyzed wheat protein — all of which work together to give you a glow. Coconut oil gives it some gentle slip to easily remove makeup, sweat, and excess oil without stripping the skin. Lycopene from the tomato extract is vitamin-rich for a brightening glow. This product has a light, natural strawberry scent.

                    I’ve been using this for a few weeks now, and my skin looks calm and bright, like I’ve been sleeping much more than I have.

                    cleanser

                    Best Cleansing Cloths

                    Practical Alchemy Purify + Protect Duo

                    Pros

                    • Compostable
                    • Lovely botanical scent
                    • Weave texture feels like it deeply cleans

                    Cons

                    • Doesn’t remove heavy waterproof makeup
                    • Not widely available online

                    Key Specs

                    • Type: Cleansing cloth
                    • Key ingredients: Micellar water, avocado oil, biodegradable fiber
                    • Fragrance: Yes, natural fragrance

                    There’s a lot to love about the ease and portability of individual cleansing cloths, but you may not be keen on the environmental impact. Fortunately for us, Practical Alchemy wipes are compostable. The cloth has a waffle texture (thanks to a biodegradable fiber) that feels like it really grabs dirt and grime, plus micellar water to gently remove makeup and dirt.

                    One of the coolest things about these wipes is that they are packaged with a perfect portion of sunscreen, so they’re great for taking on a workout or a trip. I recently took these on a camping trip, and it was such a nice treat at the end of the day. The wipes tear apart from the sunscreen (which is zinc-based and also excellent), so you can use the wipe and save the sunscreen for later or vice versa.

                    By the way, they have a natural botanical scent that I personally adore; it smells lightly fruity, clean, and energizing.

                    face cleanser balm

                    Best Cleansing Balm

                    Wylys Phyto Green Cleansing Balm

                    Pros

                    • Balm-to-oil milk texture easily removes makeup
                    • Suitable for a wide range of skin types
                    • Nourishing and hydrating

                      Cons

                      • Higher price point than most others on the list
                      • Herbaceous scent could irritate sensitive skin

                      Key Specs

                      • Type: Balm
                      • Key ingredients: Babassu seed oil, green tea seed oil, apricot kernel oil, jojoba seed oil, grapeseed oil, vitamin E
                      • Fragrance: Yes, but free of synthetic fragrance

                      It’s hard to resist the rich, buttery, melt-your-makeup-away ease of a cleansing balm. This product isn’t your average face wash — it’s a whole experience.

                      Ziegler was shocked to see that when she added water to the thick balm (which she describes as “similar to Vaseline but not as slick”), it lathered. She was “amazed by how well it removed makeup and sunscreen while still being gentle and hydrating,” and found its eucalyptus scent spa-like.

                      “Cleansing balms are oil-based, so they melt away sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum without stripping the skin. They’re ideal as a first step in a double-cleanse routine and work beautifully for dry or sensitive skin types,” says Allen.

                      It’s made of powerful botanicals, including babassu, green tea, and apricot oils, to soften and hydrate, plus rosemary and lavender oils to help ease breakouts.


                      face cleanser

                      Best for Removing Makeup

                      Fresh Soy Face Cleanser

                      Pros

                      • Removes tough makeup
                      • Hydrating
                      • Made with gentle ingredients

                      Cons

                      • Some may not love the cucumber scent

                      Key Specs

                      • Type: Gel
                      • Key ingredients: Soy proteins, aloe vera, cucumber extract
                      • Fragrance: Yes, natural fragrance

                      This longtime fan-favorite cleanser proves you don’t need harsh formulas to remove stubborn makeup (cough cough: waterproof mascara). “It absolutely delivers on its promise to remove makeup,” praises Eve Lederman, an editor. “It fully removed liquid foundation, mascara, and eyebrow pencil with one wash. I think it’s gentle yet a powerhouse in terms of cleansing.”

                      Packed with soy proteins to help retain hydration and boost elasticity, aloe vera to soothe and calm, and cucumber extract for a cooling sensation, it leaves skin feeling soft, balanced, and clean.



                      oil cleanser

                      Best Luxury Cleanser

                      Epicutis Oil Cleanser

                      Pros

                      • Made with luxe botanical ingredients
                      • Deeply hydrating
                      • Easily removes makeup

                      Cons

                      • Doesn’t foam, so may take some getting used to
                      • High price point

                      Key Specs

                      • Type: Oil-to-milk cleanser
                      • Key ingredients: Hinoki wood oil, meadowfoam seed oil, sunflower seed oil
                      • Fragrance: No

                      The Epicutis Oil Cleanser is the best anti-aging skin care cleanser we tested, so it felt fitting to mention here.

                      “If your skin is reactive, avoid harsh foaming agents or drying alcohols,” Wang says. This oil cleanser contains meadowfoam seed oil and sunflower seed oil to unclog pores while washing away makeup, dirt, sebum, and sunscreen without stripping skin. He adds that it’s safe for all skin types, including people who are prone to rosacea or eczema.


                      Comparison Table

                      Brand
                      Superlative
                      Key Ingredients
                      Type
                      Fragrance
                      Buy Now
                      Best oil cleanser
                      Papaya, pumpkin, and sunflower seed oils; papain; natural vitamin B complex
                      Oil-based
                      Yes, natural fragrance
                      Best for all skin types
                      Red algae hyaluronic acid, Japanese rice powder
                      Cream
                      Yes
                      Best for large pores
                      AHA, Amazonian white clay, microcrystalline cellulose grains
                      Powder
                      No
                      Best oil-to-foam
                      Vitamin C, jojoba oil, evening primrose oil, green tea seed oil, marula oil, argan oil
                      Oil-to-foam
                      Yes
                      Best for rosacea
                      Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides
                      Cleansing lotion
                      No
                      Best gentle
                      Bisabolol, glycerin, squalane
                      Gel-to-foam
                      No
                      Best for acne
                      Salicylic acid, lipohydroxy acid
                      Gel
                      No
                      Best hydrating
                      Polyglutamic acid, pineapple enzyme, green tea extract, next-gen hyaluronic acid
                      Balm-to-foam
                      No
                      Best powder
                      Pineapple enzyme, papaya enzyme, niacinamide
                      Powder
                      No
                      Best brightening
                      Strawberry seed oil, tomato extract, hydrolyzed wheat protein
                      Gel
                      Yes, natural fragrance
                      Best cleansing cloths
                      Micellar water, avocado oil, biodegradable fiber
                      Cloth
                      Yes, natural fragrance
                      Best cleansing balm
                      Babassu seed oil, green tea seed oil, apricot kernel oil, jojoba seed oil, grapeseed oil, vitamin E
                      Balm
                      Yes, but free of synthetic fragrance
                      Best for removing makeup
                      Soy proteins, aloe vera, cucumber extract
                      Gel
                      Yes, natural fragrance
                      Best luxury cleanser
                      Hinoki wood oil, meadowfoam seed oil, sunflower seed oil
                      Oil-to-milk
                      No

                      Other Noteworthy Products We Tried

                      We tested more than 100 cleansers and asked for personal favorites from our writers, editors, and other staff. There were some excellent cleansers that ultimately didn’t make the final cut. Still, we wanted to call out some other notable products:

                      • Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser This gentle cleanser helps nurture dry, rough skin. It’s a creamy gel texture that does not foam. It’s made with glycerin and niacinamide (vitamin B3) and is noncomedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. This one ultimately didn’t make our list because our tester mentioned her skin felt dry a few hours after using it, though that may not be the case for everyone.
                      • Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser This is a truly thick, rich gel cleanser that feels luxurious to use and, like a smoothie for your face, it contains spinach, kale, and green tea. It becomes milky when mixed with water and effectively removes makeup while being easy to rinse. However, this did not make our list because while our tester liked the product, she noted that her acne did not improve while using it.
                      • Neutrogena Fragrance Free Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser Foaming Formula Neutrogena is a classic, affordable option, and this no-frills cleanser gets the job done for under $10. This hypoallergenic cleanser is free of fragrance, soaps, parabens, sulfates, alcohols, and dyes. Our tester said her skin felt very clean but not stripped when using it. That said, this product was too similar to others on the list (namely CeraVe), but it’s a great, affordable cleanser for women.

                      How We Chose the Best Face Washes for Women

                      To select the best face washes for women, our writers and editors tested more than 100 face washes (sometimes recruiting our partners) for weeks. We tested different types of cleansers, including gels, creamers, exfoliants, powders, balms, cleansing cloths, and more to bring you the best of the best. We also considered various skin concerns and found testers with sensitive skin conditions, such as rosacea, eczema, acne, and dry skin, to find out what works (and what doesn’t).

                      To round out our testing and research, we spoke with experts about what to look for in face washes for women and how often to wash your face. The experts we spoke with are:

                      • James Y. Wang, MD, founder of Metropolis Dermatology in Southern California
                      • Kathleen Hamilton, a certified esthetician and education director at Woodhouse Spa in Cincinnati
                      • Sarah Allen, MD, a board-certified physician in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, and the founder and chief medical officer of Skin Clique

                      What to Look for in Face Washes for Women

                      Our experts weighed in with valuable insights on what to look for in face washes for women. Also, with so many cleansers on the market, we know it can be difficult to find one right for you. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a cleanser.

                      • Ingredients Look for ingredients that address your skin concerns. For example, if you’re acne-prone, formulas with low salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide concentrations are a good fit, Allen recommends. If your skin is dry, look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, or opt for an oil-based cleanser. “I recommend looking for gentle surfactants and skin-repairing ingredients. Ingredients such as glycerin, fatty acids, and lipids help maintain hydration, while antioxidants like vitamin E and soothing plant extracts reduce inflammation,” Wang says.
                      • Skin Type Compatibility Make sure the formula suits your skin type to avoid irritation or breakouts. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you’ll likely want a cream-based or oil cleanser. More oily skin types can benefit from a gel face wash. People with uneven skin tones may prefer a powder or a manual exfoliating wash that contains AHAs (things like glycolic and lactic acids) and BHAs.

                      • Price The cleansers on this list range from just over $10 to almost $90. Consider factors like cost per ounce and what you’re personally comfortable spending more than once.
                      • Ingredient Overlap When choosing a cleanser, consider your full skin care routine. If your serum contains vitamin C, for example, you’d probably want to skip it in your cleanser to avoid overdoing it.

                      What Ingredients Should I Use on Sensitive Skin?

                      “If you have sensitive skin, your cleanser should work with your skin — not against it. Look for formulas that are fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and pH-balanced, and that contain soothing, barrier-supportive ingredients like lipids, ceramides, and antioxidants,” Wang says.

                      It’s also important to know what ingredients to avoid if you have sensitive skin. It’s best to avoid common skin irritants like essential oils, certain alcohols, synthetic fragrance, and rough exfoliating ingredients, all of which can trigger sensitivity.

                      How Often Should I Use an Exfoliating Cleanser?

                      Exfoliating has a place in any skin care routine, but you don’t want to overdo it.

                      “Using an exfoliating cleanser once or twice a week is usually plenty! Doing it too often can dry out or irritate your skin, especially if you’re on the sensitive side. If you use a scrub, make sure the beads are small and smooth, and go easy on the pressure,” says Hamilton.

                      Wang agrees, saying that for most people, one to three times per week is plenty. “Overexfoliating can lead to barrier damage, redness, and breakouts,” he explains.

                      When in doubt, try exfoliating once a week, and then increase to twice a week as your skin gets used to it.

                      How Should I Wash My Face?

                      It may seem simple, but properly washing your face is actually a bit of an art. Typically, you simply start by wetting your skin with warm or lukewarm water. Then, dispense about a dime-sized amount of cleanser into your hands and rub it on your face. You can allow the cleanser to sit for a few seconds, then gently rub it off, being careful not to scrub. Pat your face dry with a soft towel.

                      To ensure you’re washing your face properly with a cleanser, read the instructions on the product’s bottle, as instructions vary by formula. For example, some cleansers may be more potent and only require a pea-sized amount; others may suggest a double rinse to remove all the residue.

                      FAQ

                      How often should I wash my face?
                      Most dermatologists recommend washing your face twice a day — once in the morning and once at night — to remove oil, sweat, makeup, and daily buildup. If you have very dry or sensitive skin, once nightly may be enough. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends limiting cleansing to twice a day or after sweating.


                      Double-cleansing can be a game changer if you wear makeup or sunscreen. The first cleanse (usually oil-based) breaks down product and grime, while the second (water-based) actually cleans your skin.

                      Why Trust Everyday Health

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                      Grace Gallagher

                      Author

                      Grace Gallagher is a writer with nearly a decade of experience writing about health and wellness, focusing on hair, sexual wellness, pregnancy, and parenting. She also works full-time as the lead hair health writer for the Hims blog.

                      Grace received a bachelor's degree from Hobart William Smith College and an MFA in creative writing from Hunter College, and her work has appeared in Health, Shape, Verywell Mind and Verywell Health, Parents, Romper, Healthline, Greatist, and more.

                      Jacquelyn Dosal

                      Jacquelyn Dosal, MD

                      Medical Reviewer

                      Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at The Dermatology House in Park City, Utah. Her areas of expertise include acne, rosacea, integrative treatments of inflammatory skin diseases, as well as laser treatment of the skin and injectables.

                      Dr. Dosal writes cosmetic questions for the certifying exams for the American Board of Dermatology. She is also the deputy editor for the American Academy of Dermatology's podcast, Dialogues in Dermatology.

                      Daniel Oakley

                      Fact-Checker

                      Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.

                      Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.

                      Katrina Cossey

                      Katrina Cossey

                      Editor

                      Katrina Cossey is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience in broadcast and service journalism. Over her career, she’s covered topics such as the COVID-19 pandemic, newborn care, healthy skin-care routines, dental health, and more. She's also tested hundreds of products, ranging from fitness equipment and blood pressure monitors to car seats, toys, and kitchen items.

                      She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Oklahoma with a focus on professional media. During her time at university, Katrina served as a reporter for the university’s news channel and webpage.

                      When she’s not working, Katrina is outside with her family. They love riding their bikes and walking various trails around their community.

                      Ashley Ziegler

                      Tester

                      Ashley Ziegler is a full-time writer with extensive experience covering women’s health, babies' and kids' health, mental health, and wellness. Her work has appeared on websites including The Bump, Health, Pregnancy & Newborn, People, Parents, Romper, Scary Mommy, and more.

                      Before transitioning into her full-time writing career, Ashley worked in the departments of pediatric cardiology and general medicine at Duke University Medical Center, and later at the North Carolina Medical Board. During undergrad, she majored in communications at Purdue University and then earned her master’s degree with a concentration in healthcare management from Indiana Wesleyan University.

                      Ashley lives with her husband and two young daughters in North Carolina. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking, taking barre classes, and catching up on her favorite podcasts.

                      Catherine Brown

                      Tester

                      Catherine began a career based on health while working at an orthodontist's office, then became a certified yoga and meditation teacher, but soon recognized a call to follow a path in natural wellness through plants.

                      She is an herbologist who has worked with plant medicine for over two decades. She specializes in Andean and Amazonian medicine from South America. She has consulted for Colombia University and the New York Psychiatric Institution in their studies on plant medicine for mental health.

                      She is a Reiki master and has been recently exploring the world of sound healing.

                      Lindsay Modglin

                      Tester

                      Lindsay Modglin is a former nurse and health writer who specializes in covering chronic illness, women's health, oncology, and wellness products that help empower readers to take control of their health and well-being. Her byline has been featured in many digital publications, including Healthline, Verywell Health, Parents, Forbes, Yahoo, AOL, Insider, and more. Her print work has been published in oncology magazines like Cancer Today and Cure.

                      Prior to becoming a writer, Lindsay started working in healthcare in 2012 as an optician while she was pursuing her nursing license before working as a registered nurse in a clinical healthcare setting. This experience gave her firsthand knowledge of the challenges and complexities that patients face when managing chronic illnesses and navigating the healthcare system.

                      Today, when Lindsay is not writing, she enjoys camping and traveling across the United States with her husband and three children. She also volunteers as a creative writer for a non-profit organization that supports children with life-threatening illnesses and as a soccer coach for her children's teams.

                      Malissa Rodenburg

                      Tester

                      Malissa Rodenburg is an independent science and health journalist with a bachelor's degree in creative writing from Columbia College Chicago and a master's degree in science writing from Johns Hopkins University. Her work mainly focuses on advances in women’s health research and exercise science. She is passionate about threading health discoveries into the context of everyday life.

                      She has written for top universities, including Weill Cornell Medicine, Johns Hopkins, Princeton, and the University of Colorado. You can also find her byline in Science, Women’s Running, Outside, and other national publications.

                      Mary Dennis

                      Tester

                      Mary Dennis is a Singaporean American health and science writer based in New York. Her work has been published in the Beijinger, Nautilus, South China Morning Post, Motherly, and Verywell Mind.

                      Her interest in covering mental health increased after the pandemic revealed our society's increasing need for care and information about how to manage our emotional health. She is passionate about maternal mental health issues in particular, and is the founder of Postpartum Brain, a website designed to educate and encourage people to learn more about perinatal mental health issues.

                      Mary has a masters degree in science journalism from Columbia University.

                      Erin Heger

                      Tester

                      Erin Heger is a freelance journalist with more than 10 years combined experience in health writing and healthcare advocacy. Her reporting and essays have covered mental health, wellness, fitness, nutrition, and healthcare policy. You can find her byline in The Atlantic, Business Insider, HuffPost, and many other publications.

                      Before freelancing full time, Erin worked in healthcare advocacy as a community organizer for a reproductive rights organization and as a health insurance navigator at a community health center.

                      As a writer, Erin strives to empower readers with clear, accessible information to help readers make the best choices for themselves and their families.

                      Outside of work, Erin enjoys reading fiction, listening to podcasts, running, and watching reality TV. She lives in Kansas City with her husband and three children.

                      Katie Tuttle

                      Tester

                      Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing. Her work has appeared in EatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She has written about meal kits, kitchen tools, fitness, and wellness, and has tested and reviewed a wide range of products, with a particular focus on meal delivery services and their impact on nutrition and convenience.

                      Beyond food, Katie has covered fitness and wellness topics, drawing from her own experience as a powerlifter and an occasional runner. She’s always interested in how products and services can make healthy living more accessible and practical.

                      When she’s not researching or writing, Katie is usually surrounded by houseplants or spending time with a foster dog. She firmly believes there’s no such thing as too many books or too much coffee.

                      Eve Lederman

                      Eve Lederman

                      Tester

                      Eve Lederman is a senior developmental editor of work published by Dotdash Meredith, where she focused on Verywell Health during her nine-year tenure. She is also a freelance editor with U.S. News & World Report, contributing to health and wellness articles in the commerce space.

                      Previously, she was a freelance editor for Fitness magazine and worked with the former medical advertising agency Friedberg Feder DeMasi, spearheading market research.

                      Eve is also the author of several essays that have appeared in The New York Times, five published books, and two plays.

                      EDITORIAL SOURCES
                      Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
                      Resources
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                      21. Face washing 101. American Academy of Dermatology Association.