Best Face Washes in 2025

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a top pick for a reason, especially for normal to dry skin types. Its gentle, non-foaming formula effectively removes dirt and oil without disrupting the skin's natural barrier. Key ingredients include ceramides, which help restore the skin's protective barrier, and hyaluronic acid, which provides essential hydration. The cleanser is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), and developed with dermatologists, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Users frequently praise its ability to leave skin feeling clean, soft, and hydrated. The cleanser ranked highly across our effectiveness, skin compatibility, and user review criteria.

For individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is an excellent choice. This cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that deeply cleanses pores, reduces blackheads, and helps prevent future breakouts. It also includes lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) for gentle exfoliation and is designed to control excess oil production. While effective, it’s gentle enough for daily use, though those with sensitive skin should introduce it gradually. Our analysis showed this cleanser scored high marks for effectiveness in treating acne and reducing oiliness. The frequent positive user reviews also underscored its reliability.

For those with sensitive or easily irritated skin, the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a time-tested classic. It is a mild, soap-free cleanser that effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Suitable for all skin types, including babies. Its non-comedogenic, fragrance-free formula has made it a staple. Users constantly praise its gentle nature, making it ideal for those with conditions like eczema or rosacea. This aligns with our skin compatibility and ingredient analysis showing a minimal potential for causing irritation. The cleanser is also widely available and inexpensive, making it a great value.

For those who are looking for a face wash to act also as an exfoliator, the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant provides effective exfoliation, smoothing skin texture, reducing blackheads, and preventing breakouts. While this is a leave-on liquid, users can follow with their favorite cleanser (or use alone as a wash). Featuring salicylic acid (BHA), it penetrates deep into pores to remove dead skin cells. The brand is known its transparent ingredient lists, and gentle but effective formulations. This product earned high marks on our effectiveness criteria, though for some users, it may be too strong for daily or twice-daily use.

Tata Harper's Regenerating Cleanser is designed to gently exfoliate and cleanse, leaving skin feeling fresh and revitalized. Unlike harsher scrubs, this cleanser uses natural, biodegradable exfoliating particles to refine skin texture without causing irritation. It's suitable for all skin types, though those with extremely sensitive skin might want to patch-test first. Packed with beneficial ingredients and essential oils, it effectively removes impurities while nourishing the skin. Users highlight the product's luxurious feel and noticeable improvement in skin radiance. Our analysis, when considering its ingredients and performance, found the high price point justified for those seeking premium ingredients.