Choosing the right facial cleanser is an important step in the skin care process. However, with so many products on the market, finding the best facial cleanser for your skin can be confusing. Let’s learn about the top 14 types of facial cleansers most recommended by pharmacies, suitable for many different skin types through this article.
WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A FACIAL CLEANSER?
According to New York-based dermatologist David Kim, choosing the right facial cleanser depends mainly on your skin type. However, one important thing all good facial cleansers have in common is their ability to remove “sweat, residue and pollutants without making your skin dry,”
Dry skin: If your cleanser makes your skin feel tight and lose its natural moisture, look for products with hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid.
Oily skin: Try products that contain acids to help remove excess oil effectively.
Combination skin: In case your skin is oily on the forehead and dry on the cheeks, look for a balanced cleanser that both removes excess oil and moisturizes dry skin.
Sensitive skin: If some ingredients in regular facial cleansers irritate your skin, choose products specifically for sensitive skin, eliminating irritants such as perfume, alcohol,…
Regardless of your skin type, you can find a suitable facial cleanser without spending too much money. “There are great options [at the drugstore],” Kim says. “Cleansers shouldn’t be so expensive.”
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR FACE?
According to dermatologists, washing your face once or twice a day is essential to maintain skin health. However, the appropriate frequency depends on each person’s skin type and living habits.
“It is always important to wash the face at the end of the day to remove buildup of dirt, debris as well as excess oil and makeup from throughout the day,” recommends Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick. However, for those with sensitive or dry skin, washing your face only in the evening may be a more suitable choice. So, when should you wash your face?
Morning: Washing your face in the morning helps remove sebum and sweat that has accumulated on the skin overnight, while also helping the skin get ready to receive the next skin care products.
Evening: Washing your face at night is the most important step in your skin care routine, helping to remove dirt, makeup and sunscreen.
BEST DRUGSTORE FACIAL CLEANSER
CETAPHIL HYDRATING GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER
Dermatologists recommend this gentle cleanser for dry, sensitive skin. It contains hydrating glycerin and niacinamide to soothe and protect the skin barrier, without stripping away natural oils. The non-foaming formula leaves your skin feeling comfortable and hydrated. Besides that, it is also one of the best cleansers for rosacea.
DIFFERIN CLEANSER DAILY DEEP 5% BENZOYL PEROXIDE
Struggling with persistent acne? This benzoyl peroxide cleanser is your go-to! It tackles breakouts and blackheads while absorbing oil and keeping pores clear. Gentle enough for daily use, it effectively fights acne without irritation.
ST. IVES SKIN SCRUB AVOCADO AND HONEY
This scrub buffs away dullness! It uses finely ground walnut shells to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, while avocado and honey keep your skin feeling hydrated and happy. If you have normal skin, swap this scrub in for your regular cleanser once a week to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion.
CERAVE HYDRATING FOAMING OIL CLEANSER
This award-winning 2023 cleanser is a must-have for your skincare routine! It starts as a luxurious oil, melting away makeup and impurities while deeply nourishing your skin. Then, as you add water, it transforms into a gentle lather that rinses clean, leaving your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and comfortable.
NEUTROGENA OIL-FREE ACNE WASH
For those battling blemishes and clogged pores, this oil-free formula is your new best friend. Salicylic acid, a powerful BHA, works its magic by exfoliating and clearing out trapped oil, dirt, and bacteria that contribute to breakouts. With consistent use, expect smoother skin, fewer pimples, and a brighter, more even complexion.
VANICREAM GENTLE FACIAL CLEANSER
This cleanser is perfect for those with sensitive skin! Free of sulfates, dyes, fragrance, parabens, and gluten, it provides a gentle clean without irritation. Dermatologist-tested and safe for eczema-prone skin, it won’t clog pores and leaves you feeling refreshed.
GARNIER SKINACTIVE MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER
Version 1.0.0
Ditch the harsh scrubbing! This micellar water gently removes makeup, dirt, sunscreen, and excess oil without irritating your eyes. It’s so versatile you can use it alone as a cleanser and makeup remover, or as the first step in your double cleansing routine.
AVEENO ULTRA-CALMING FOAMING CLEANSER
This gentle cleanser is a lifesaver for sensitive or irritated skin, whether caused by allergies, overdoing strong skincare, or anything else. It calms and soothes redness without irritating further. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and won’t clog pores, thanks to its non-comedogenic formula. It even contains feverfew, a natural ingredient known for calming inflamed skin.
AVÈNE CLEANANCE CLEANSING GEL
Struggling with oily skin? This gel wash is your new best friend! It controls oil production and contains comedoclastin, a natural extract that fights redness and blemishes. Use it on your face or body for a refreshed, shine-free feeling.
LA ROCHE-POSAY LIPIKAR WASH AP+ GENTLE FOAMING MOISTURIZING WASH
This cleanser is a favorite among dermatologists for its super gentle formula. Packed with prebiotic thermal water, shea butter, and hydrating ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide, it cleanses even very dry skin without stripping away natural moisture. So mild it’s suitable for babies and eczema-prone skin, this cleanser leaves your face feeling comfortable and soothed.
OLAY REGENERIST REGENERATING CREAM CLEANSER
Forget fancy cleansers for wrinkles (anti-aging serums are the real heroes there). However, a cleanser with an amino-peptide complex, glycerin, and exfoliating salicylic acid can brighten dull skin, smooth uneven texture, and leave you feeling clean.
WELEDA SKIN FOOD FACE CARE NOURISHING OIL-TO-MILK CLEANSER
This cleanser is a dream come true for soft, supple skin! Combining sunflower seed oil and chamomile flower extract, it starts as a luxurious oil and transforms into a gentle milk. This unique formula effortlessly removes makeup, dirt, and oil, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and oh-so-touchable.
BURT’S BEES FACIAL CLEANSING OIL
Perfect for those with normal or dry skin, this coconut and argan oil blend gently melts away makeup and impurities without leaving a greasy residue. Your skin will feel luxuriously soft and smooth after every use.
UNTOXICATED CLEAN START FACIAL CLEANSER
Newcomer brand Untoxicated offers a gentle facial cleanser online at a drugstore-worthy price. This cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin as it’s free of common allergens and packed with hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. You might not find it on drugstore shelves yet, but it’s definitely worth checking out online.
TIPS ON FACIAL CLEANSING FOR SKINCARE
You should choose a facial cleanser that suits your skin type and needs.
Use warm water to wash your face, do not use water that is too hot or too cold.
Gently massage your face when washing your face.
Moisturize your skin after washing your face.
Consult a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin or skin problems.
Use facial cleanser twice a day, in the morning and at night.
CONCLUSION
Choosing the right facial cleanser is an important step in skin care. Hopefully with the list of 14 types of facial cleansers recommended by pharmacists and notes when using, you can find a product that suits your needs and skin type. Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so you should experiment and find the products that work best for you. Wishing you always have healthy and radiant skin!
20 MOST POPULAR BATH AND BODY WORKS SCENTS OF ALL TIME
Ah, Bath & Body Works! The land of a thousand (well, maybe not a thousand) enticing scents. New options appear all the time, but there are some fragrances that consistently fly off the shelves and earn rave reviews. Whether you’re a die-hard Bath & Body Works fan or a curious newcomer, this list will unveil the 20 most popular scents that have captivated shoppers for years. Get ready to discover fresh florals, warm ambers, and everything in between to tantalize your nose and find your new signature scent!
OUR TOP PICKS
JAPANESE CHERRY BLOSSOM
Japanese cherry blossoms, also known as sakura, are a beloved symbol of spring in Japan. These delicate pink flowers erupt on cherry blossom trees (sakura trees) for a brief but spectacular period, typically between late March and early April. The fleeting nature of the blooms is a powerful metaphor in Japanese culture, representing the beauty and impermanence of life. During cherry blossom season, people gather under the trees for picnics and celebrations, enjoying the ethereal beauty of the flowers and the renewal of spring.
VANILLA BEAN NOEL
Vanilla Bean Noel isn’t the actual vanilla bean you might find in baking, but rather a fragrance inspired by cozy winter treats. Primarily associated with Bath & Body Works, Vanilla Bean Noel is a sweet and comforting scent. Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of fresh vanilla beans mixed with buttery sugar cookies, rich caramel, and a touch of creamy whipped cream. The fragrance often has a hint of musky sweetness, like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a subtle vanilla bean pod finish. This delightful combination creates a warm and inviting scent that evokes feelings of holiday cheer and nostalgic winter memories.
BUTTERFLY FINE FRAGRANCE MIST
This popular fragrance from the brand captures the essence of sweetness without overpowering the senses. Blending raspberry nectar, iris petals, and vanilla, it offers a delightful scent that’s both light and enduring. Available in various forms including candles, fine fragrance mists, and body care products, it provides versatile options for enthusiasts. While some may find the raspberry and vanilla notes subtle compared to the predominant floral scent, overall, it remains a beloved classic appreciated for its balanced sweetness and lasting allure. Whether you prefer it in a mist, lotion, or candle, this fragrance promises a delightful experience reminiscent of sweet candy, making it a standout choice for those who enjoy gentle yet enduring scents.
WINTER CANDY APPLE
Winter Candy Apple isn’t an edible treat, but a fragrance that captures the essence of a festive winter wonderland. Unlike a classic candy apple, this scent goes beyond just the sweet, tart bite of the fruit. Imagine a juicy red candy apple dipped in a sugary glaze, but with surprising twists. A touch of crisp candied orange adds a spark of citrus alongside the apple’s sweetness. Winter Candy Apple takes a turn from the expected with the addition of delicate winter rose petals, softening the sugary intensity. Finally, a hint of maple leaf and fresh cinnamon warms the fragrance, creating a comforting and slightly spicy depth. This delightful concoction is a far cry from a simple candy apple, offering a festive and multifaceted fragrance perfect for the winter season.
SWEET PEA
Unlike some florals that can be overpowering, Sweet Pea offers a light and refreshing bouquet. Imagine the delicate sweetness of fresh sweet pea blossoms mingling with the juicy notes of watery pear. A hint of sheer freesia adds a touch of sophistication, while luscious raspberry injects a burst of playful fruitiness. The fragrance finishes with a soft musk, grounding the sweetness and lending a touch of elegance. This delightful combination creates a scent that’s perfect for any season, but especially evokes the carefree joy of spring.
WARM VANILLA SUGAR
Warm Vanilla Sugar is a fragrance that conjures up images of cozy kitchens and comforting treats. The star of the show, vanilla, isn’t the single-note experience you might expect. Instead, imagine a rich, creamy vanilla bean extract warmed by a touch of brown sugar. This creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness that’s both inviting and familiar. The sugar isn’t overpowering, but adds a touch of playfulness that keeps the scent from becoming overly heavy. Some versions of Warm Vanilla Sugar might have a hint of floral or citrus notes, adding a touch of brightness and preventing the fragrance from becoming too gourmand. Overall, Warm Vanilla Sugar is a warm, sweet, and comforting scent that evokes feelings of nostalgia, happiness, and pure indulgence.
MAHOGANY TEAKWOOD
Bath & Body Works’ Mahogany Teakwood isn’t your typical floral or fruity fragrance. Instead, it’s a masculine and sophisticated scent designed to evoke the feeling of a luxurious walk in the forest. Imagine the rich, warm aroma of genuine mahogany wood mingling with the slightly sharper, smokier notes of black teakwood. Hints of dark oak add depth and complexity, creating a truly woodsy experience. The fragrance isn’t all about ruggedness though. Bath & Body Works describes it as a “love letter to woodsy fragrances,” suggesting a touch of underlying sweetness or spice that keeps it interesting. Overall, Mahogany Teakwood is a perfect fragrance for those who gravitate towards warm, masculine scents that conjure up images of nature and classic elegance.
A THOUSAND WISHES
A Thousand Wishes, a popular fragrance from Bath & Body Works, is all about sparkling hope and joyful femininity. Unlike some heavier scents, it offers a light and playful blend that’s perfect for everyday wear. Imagine a burst of bubbly champagne at the top, effervescent and inviting. This mingles with the sweetness of sparkling mimosa and delicate purple freesia, adding a touch of floral whimsy. As the fragrance settles, a heart of peony and luscious quince emerges, offering a more complex sweetness. Finally, the base warms up with comforting notes of amber, sandalwood, and musk, grounding the scent and adding a touch of intrigue. A Thousand Wishes is a delightful fragrance that’s both effervescent and comforting, perfect for those who want a touch of magic in their day.
CHAMPAGNE TOAST
Bath & Body Works’ Champagne Toast isn’t actually about the alcoholic beverage itself, but rather the celebratory spirit it evokes. Imagine a fragrance that captures the excitement and joy of a festive occasion. The scent opens with a delightful mix of sparkling fruits like juicy mandarin and bubbly prosecco, replicating the effervescence of clinking glasses. This fruity top note soon mingles with the warmth of sugared cranberries and a hint of intoxicating champagne grapes, adding a touch of sweetness and depth. The fragrance finishes with a base of creamy vanilla and a touch of musk, grounding the scent and leaving a lingering feeling of sophistication. Champagne Toast is a vibrant and playful fragrance, perfect for anyone who wants to add a touch of festivity and cheer to their day.
HELLO BEAUTIFUL
Hello Beautiful from Bath & Body Works is a fragrance that lives up to its name. It’s a light and airy floral scent designed to make you feel confident and feminine. Imagine a bouquet of freshly picked white gardenia, known for its delicate sweetness. Jasmine petals add a touch of romantic elegance, while magnolia blossom brings a hint of citrusy vibrancy. This combination creates a well-rounded floral fragrance that’s neither too cloying nor too sharp. Hello Beautiful is perfect for spring and summer, or any time you want a scent that’s both uplifting and effortlessly beautiful.
EUCALYPTUS MINT
Eucalyptus Mint is a fragrance that invigorates the senses with its clean and refreshing blend. Imagine a wave of cool eucalyptus hitting you first, its medicinal and slightly camphorous scent clearing your head. Following closely behind is the bright, minty bite of peppermint or spearmint, adding an energizing and almost tingling sensation. Some versions of Eucalyptus Mint might incorporate other herbal notes like rosemary or lavender, creating a more complex and calming effect. This fragrance is perfect for those who love a clean, invigorating scent that awakens the senses and promotes feelings of focus and clarity.
GINGHAM
This fresh and clean fragrance is a classic Bath & Body Works scent. It features notes of cotton blossom, white floral, and a hint of citrus. It’s a light and airy scent that’s perfect for everyday wear. Gingham is available in a wide variety of bath and body products, making it a versatile choice.
PURE WONDER
Bath & Body Works’ Pure Wonder captures the essence of a joyful winter wonderland. It’s not your typical heavy, spicy holiday fragrance, but rather a light and dreamy blend that evokes a sense of celebration and cozy comfort. Imagine the first impression of a sparkling glass of iced rosé, light, fruity, and bubbly, adding a touch of festive cheer. This blends seamlessly with the delicate sweetness of star jasmine, a floral note with a hint of smokiness that adds a touch of intrigue. As the fragrance dries down, warm white amber emerges, enveloping you in a soft, cozy embrace like a warm blanket on a winter night. Pure Wonder is a perfect fragrance for those who want a festive scent that’s both light and comforting, ideal for the holiday season or anytime you want to capture that feeling of joyful wonder.
MAHOGANY TEAKWOOD
Unlike many perfumes that boast floral or fruity notes, Bath & Body Works’ Mahogany Teakwood carves its own path. This fragrance leans masculine and sophisticated, designed to evoke the feeling of a luxurious stroll through a dense forest. Imagine the rich, warm aroma of genuine mahogany wood mingling with the slightly sharper, smokier notes of black teakwood. Hints of dark oak add depth and complexity, creating a truly immersive woodsy experience. But Mahogany Teakwood isn’t all about ruggedness. Bath & Body Works themselves describe it as a “love letter to woodsy fragrances,” hinting at a touch of underlying sweetness or spice that keeps the scent interesting. Overall, Mahogany Teakwood is a perfect fragrance for those who gravitate towards warm, masculine scents that conjure up images of nature and timeless elegance.
BLACK CHERRY MERLOT
Black Cherry Merlot by Bath & Body Works isn’t just a fruity fragrance, it’s a sophisticated blend that captures the essence of a luxurious dark fruit wine. Imagine the sweet and tart burst of juicy black cherries, perfectly ripe and bursting with flavor. This blends seamlessly with the rich, full-bodied aroma of Merlot wine, adding a touch of depth and unexpected complexity. Some versions of Black Cherry Merlot might incorporate hints of black raspberry or plum, creating a more well-rounded fruit basket experience. This delightful combination is both sweet and sophisticated, making it perfect for those who enjoy a touch of fruitiness without venturing into overly sugary territory. Black Cherry Merlot is a great choice for fall and winter, or any time you want a fragrance that’s both alluring and comforting.
KITCHEN LEMON
Kitchen Lemon from Bath & Body Works isn’t what you might expect. It doesn’t simply mimic the sharp, one-dimensional pucker of biting into a raw lemon. Instead, Kitchen Lemon captures the essence of using lemons in the kitchen, offering a more complex and inviting fragrance. Imagine the invigorating zest of lemon peel hitting your nose first, a clean and citrusy scent that awakens the senses. This blends with the juicy sweetness of lemon flesh, adding a touch of natural sweetness that tempers the sharpness. However, Kitchen Lemon goes beyond the raw fruit. Hints of sugar or vanilla might be present, conjuring up images of homemade lemonade or lemon meringue pie. The fragrance might even have a touch of herbal freshness like rosemary or mint, reflecting the use of lemons in savory dishes.
IN THE STARS
This blends seamlessly with the warm, musky base of sandalwood musk, creating a comforting and grounding foundation. A touch of sugared tangelo adds a burst of citrusy brightness, mimicking the sparkle of distant stars. As the fragrance dries down, hints of white agarwood, a rare and precious wood with a slightly smoky and musky aroma, emerge, adding an air of sophistication and depth. Finally, radiant amber weaves its magic, leaving a lingering trail of warmth and sensuality. In the Stars is a complex and captivating fragrance, perfect for those who want a scent that’s both inviting and intriguing. It leaves you with a sense of wonder, like gazing up at a star-filled night sky.
CALYPSO CLEMENTINE
Calypso Clementine, launched in 2024 by Bath & Body Works, is a burst of sunshine captured in a bottle. This fragrance is all about the joy of summer citrus. Imagine the first impression of a perfectly ripe clementine, bursting with juicy sweetness and a refreshing tartness. Following close behind is a touch of neroli nectar, the essence of orange blossoms, adding a delicate floral layer that complements the citrus without overpowering it. A surprising hint of coastal woods lingers in the background, grounding the fragrance and hinting at the cool, refreshing ocean breeze. Calypso Clementine is a light and invigorating scent, perfect for anyone who wants a touch of summer cheer year-round.
AT THE BEACH
At The Beach from Bath & Body Works isn’t just your typical beach fragrance. It captures the essence of a relaxing day by the ocean, offering a blend of fresh, aquatic, and sun-warmed scents. This blends seamlessly with the warm, sun-baked scent of golden sand, creating a sense of being right on the beach. Some versions of At The Beach might incorporate hints of tropical fruits like mango or coconut, adding a touch of sweetness and vacation vibes. The fragrance finishes with a touch of creamy musk, grounding the scent and leaving a lingering feeling of relaxation.
STRAWBERRY POUND CAKE
Strawberry Pound Cake, a popular fragrance from Bath & Body Works, is a delectable treat for your senses. It’s a gourmand scent that evokes the warm, inviting feeling of a freshly baked dessert. Imagine the sweet and juicy aroma of ripe strawberries taking center stage. This blends seamlessly with the comforting scent of golden pound cake, a buttery base with a hint of vanilla and almond. A touch of whipped cream adds a final layer of sweetness and indulgence, creating a truly mouthwatering fragrance. Strawberry Pound Cake is perfect for those who gravitate towards sweet and comforting scents. It’s a cheerful and nostalgic fragrance that brings back memories of cozy kitchens and homemade treats.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A BATH & BODY WORKS SCENT
When venturing into the fragrant world of Bath & Body Works, here are some key things to consider to find your perfect scent:
Fragrance Family:
Floral: Light and airy scents with notes like rose, lavender, or jasmine. Perfect for spring or those who prefer a delicate fragrance. Think Japanese Cherry Blossom or Sweet Pea.
Fresh: Clean and invigorating scents with notes like citrus, cucumber, or mint. Great for everyday wear or those who prefer a lighter fragrance. Try Gingham or Eucalyptus Mint.
Fruity: Sweet and juicy scents with notes like berries, melon, or citrus. Perfect for summer or those who love a vibrant fragrance. Sun-Ripened Raspberry (discontinued) is a past example.
Gourmand: Warm and comforting scents with notes like vanilla, caramel, or baked goods. Ideal for fall and winter or those who enjoy a cozy fragrance. Warm Vanilla Sugar or Vanilla Bean Noel are good examples.
Woodsy: Earthy and masculine scents with notes like sandalwood, cedarwood, or amber. Great for year-round wear or those who prefer a sophisticated scent. Mahogany Teakwood is a popular choice.
Lifestyle and Season:
Consider the season: Bath & Body Works offers seasonal scents like Winter Candy Apple or Vanilla Bean Noel that perfectly capture the festive spirit.
Think about your personality: Do you prefer light and airy scents for everyday wear, or something more complex and alluring for a night out? A Thousand Wishes might be a good choice for the latter.
Longevity and Sillage:
Longevity: How long does the scent last on your skin? Some scents, like Japanese Cherry Blossom, are known for their lasting power, while others may fade quicker.
Sillage: This refers to the strength of the scent trail. Do you want a scent that fills the room, or something more subtle? Consider how you want your fragrance to be experienced by others.
Customer Reviews:
Bath & Body Works’ website offers customer reviews on most fragrances. Reading these can give valuable insights into how the scent performs on different skin types and its overall popularity.
Try Before You Buy:
Most Bath & Body Works stores offer testers or hand sanitizers in various scents. Take advantage of this to try before you buy and ensure you love the fragrance before committing to a larger product.
By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding your perfect Bath & Body Works scent!
CONCLUSION
While this list features 20 great scents from Bath & Body Works, keep in mind that this is just a glimpse of their vast and ever-evolving fragrance collection. New contenders are always emerging, while classic favorites continue to dominate. The real beauty of Bath & Body Works lies in its ability to satisfy a wide variety of preferences. While Bath & Body Works offers many delightful scents, for daily use in a body wash, you might prefer a more subtle fragrance that complements your favorite perfume.
