calendula oil for eczema

14 BEST DRUGSTORE FACE WASHES THAT ACTUALLY WORK

Keeping your face clean is a key part of any skincare routine, but with so many face washes on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Especially if you’re on a budget! Drugstore face washes offer a fantastic selection of cleansers that can be just as effective, if not more so, than pricier options. Here’s a guide to the 14 best drugstore face washes that will leave your skin feeling fresh, clean and happy without breaking the bank! We’ll cover cleansers for all different skin types, from acne-prone to dry and sensitive, so you can find the perfect one for your unique needs.

OUR TOP PICKS

CETAPHIL PRO FOAMING FACE WASH

Cetaphil Pro Foaming Face Wash is a great option for those with oily, acne-prone skin. This cleanser utilizes Zinc Technology to target excess oil and shine, while also calming and soothing irritation. The gentle foaming texture removes pore-clogging impurities and oil without over-drying, making it suitable for sensitive skin as well. This pH-balanced formula is clinically proven to remove 99% of excess oil, leaving your skin clean and refreshed.

CERAVE HYDRATING FACIAL CLEANSER

Ideal for normal to dry skin, CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser that removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. This dermatologist-developed face wash is formulated with three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE technology. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier, hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, and MVE technology ensures a controlled, long-lasting release of hydrating ingredients throughout the day. This combination keeps your skin clean, comfortable, and hydrated, even after cleansing.

OLAY REGENERIST REGENERATING CREAM CLEANSER

Olay Regenerist Regenerating Cream Cleanser caters to those looking for a cleanser that combines deep cleansing with anti-aging benefits. This creamy formula is designed to wash away dirt, makeup, and impurities while gently exfoliating to accelerate skin’s natural surface regeneration. The inclusion of advanced anti-aging ingredients aims to smooth skin texture and promote a more youthful appearance. However, it’s important to note that cleansers are typically left on the face for a short time, so the anti-aging benefits may be subtle. Regardless, this cleanser is a good option for those with normal, dry, or combination skin seeking a clean and refreshed feel with a touch of anti-aging support.

THE ORDINARY SQUALANE CLEANSER

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a gentle, two-in-one cleanser designed for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This fragrance-free formula uses squalane, a plant-derived oil that mimics natural skin oils, to effectively dissolve makeup and remove dirt and impurities without stripping away moisture. Squalane also helps to replenish the skin’s barrier, leaving it feeling soft and supple. The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula (meaning it won’t clog pores) makes it a great choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin as well.

NEUTROGENA STUBBORN TEXTURE ACNE CLEANSER

Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Acne Cleanser tackles both acne breakouts and uneven skin texture in one go. This dermatologist-grade cleanser combines a powerful trio of acids to achieve clear and smooth skin. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), penetrates pores to clear existing acne and prevent new blemishes. Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), helps loosen and shed dead skin cells on the surface, promoting a smoother texture. Finally, polyhydroxy acid (PHA) gently exfoliates to minimize the appearance of pores and improve overall skin texture. This fragrance-free cleanser is suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, although those with sensitive skin may want to patch test first due to the exfoliating ingredients.

E.L.F COSMETICS HOLY HYDRATION! DAILY CLEANSER

E.l.f. Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser is a budget-friendly option that caters to those with normal, dry, or combination skin. This gel-based cleanser transforms into a soft lather that removes excess oil, impurities, and even light makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The key ingredients here are hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant, attracts and retains moisture, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and plump. Ceramides, on the other hand, help strengthen and repair the skin’s natural barrier, preventing dehydration and irritation. This fragrance-free cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use and leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and comfortably hydrated.

DOVE BEAUTY BAR

Dove Beauty Bar is a classic choice for a reason! This gentle bar soap is formulated with ¼ moisturizing cream, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth after cleansing. Unlike traditional bar soaps that can be stripping, Dove’s unique formula effectively washes away dirt and oil without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture balance. This makes it a great choice for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Dove Beauty Bar is also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, minimizing the risk of irritation. It’s an affordable and effective option for those looking for a simple, no-frills cleanser for both face and body.

WELEDA SKIN FOOD FACE CARE NOURISHING OIL-TO-MILK CLEANSER

Weleda Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Oil-to-Milk Cleanser is a gentle cleanser ideal for normal, dry, and even sensitive skin types. This unique formula starts as a comforting oil that transforms into a milky lather upon contact with water. Sunflower seed oil, rich in nutrients, cleanses the skin while maintaining its natural moisture balance. Soothing calendula and wild pansy extract help calm and reduce irritation. This cleanser effectively removes makeup, dirt, and impurities without leaving your skin feeling stripped or dry. Weleda’s focus on natural and botanical ingredients makes it a good choice for those seeking a gentle and effective cleanser that nourishes the skin.

CETAPHIL GENTLE CLEAR CLEANSER

Cetaphil Gentle Clear Cleanser is a great drugstore option for those struggling with acne-prone or sensitive skin. This fragrance-free, cream-to-lather cleanser tackles blemishes with salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to clear existing breakouts and prevent new ones. Unlike some acne cleansers that can be harsh, Cetaphil’s gentle formula is non-irritating and suitable for even sensitive skin. Soothing ingredients like aloe vera and white tea extract help calm and reduce inflammation, while still providing effective cleansing power. This cleanser is a good choice if you’re looking for a solution to clear up acne without irritating your skin.

NEUTROGENA OIL-FREE ACNE FIGHTING FACIAL CLEANSER WITH SALICYLIC ACID

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Facial Cleanser with Salicylic Acid is a dermatologist-recommended cleanser designed to combat acne and prevent future breakouts. This fragrance-free formula contains 2% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into pores to unclog them and clear out existing blemishes. The oil-free formula helps control excess oil production, a common culprit in acne formation. Neutrogena’s MicroClear technology helps deliver the salicylic acid directly to the source of the breakout, maximizing its effectiveness. This cleanser gently cleanses without over-drying, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. If you have sensitive skin, it’s recommended to patch test first due to the exfoliating properties of the salicylic acid.

AVEENO CALM + RESTORE REDNESS RELIEF FOAMING CLEANSER

Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser is a gentle option designed for those with sensitive skin prone to redness. This fragrance-free cleanser utilizes feverfew, a botanical extract known for its calming properties, to soothe irritation and reduce the appearance of redness. The foaming formula gently removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping away moisture, leaving your skin feeling clean, comfortable, and less irritated. This cleanser is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it suitable for those with acne-prone skin as well. If you’re looking for a gentle cleanser that effectively cleanses and calms sensitive, redness-prone skin, Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser is a great drugstore option to consider.

LA ROCHE-POSAY TOLERIANE PURIFYING FOAMING CLEANSER

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a fragrance-free cleanser designed for normal to oily, sensitive skin. This gentle cleanser utilizes micellar technology to effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water, known for its soothing and antioxidant properties, helps calm irritation and reduce redness. This cleanser also contains mattifying ingredients to control excess oil production, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and shine-free. Suitable for everyday use, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a great choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective cleanser for sensitive, oily skin.

VANICREAM GENTLE FACIAL CLEANSER

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free and soap-free cleanser ideal for sensitive skin. This dermatologist-recommended formula is free of common irritants like dyes, parabens, and sulfates, making it suitable for even the most delicate skin. The gentle cleanser effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser utilizes ceramides, which help maintain healthy skin hydration and strengthen the skin’s barrier function. This fragrance-free cleanser is non-comedogenic and rinses clean without leaving residue, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin types.

LA ROCHE-POSAY LIPIKAR WASH AP+

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser specifically formulated for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. This dermatologist-tested cleanser utilizes a unique, syndet formula that combines the cleansing properties of soap with the moisturizing benefits of a cream. It gently cleanses the skin without stripping away natural oils, leaving it feeling soft, comfortable, and hydrated.

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is enriched with several key ingredients to soothe and protect irritated skin. Aqua Posae Filiformis, a prebiotic thermal water sourced by the brand, helps balance the skin’s microbiome and strengthen its natural barrier. Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, calms inflammation and reduces redness. Glycerin, a humectant ingredient, attracts and retains moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and comfortable. This gentle cleanser is suitable for the whole family, from infants and children to adults, making it a great choice for those seeking a calming and moisturizing cleanser for sensitive skin.

WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A FACE WASH?

When selecting a drugstore face wash, it’s essential to consider your skin type and choose a formula that complements it effectively. For sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free options, while individuals with dry skin may benefit from hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Creams, oils, or balms are recommended for dry skin, whereas gel or foams are ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.

While you can look for active ingredients in face washes, simplicity is often key. Dermatologists suggest gentle cleansers free of sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, or fragrance to prevent irritation. Dr. Martha H. Viera, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, emphasizes the importance of choosing gentle and non-irritating formulations for effective skincare.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR FACE?

Dermatologists advise washing your face once or twice daily for optimal skincare. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick emphasizes the importance of cleansing the face at the end of the day to eliminate accumulated dirt, debris, excess oil, and makeup. While washing your face in the morning is acceptable, individuals with sensitive or dry skin may opt for a single cleanse in the evening for gentle skincare maintenance.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it, our top picks for the 14 best drugstore face washes that deliver real results! With cleansers for all skin types and concerns, from acne-fighting formulas to hydrating options for dry skin, there’s a perfect drugstore cleanser out there for everyone. Remember, the key to a healthy complexion is consistency, so find a cleanser that works well for you and incorporate it into your daily routine for clean, clear, and beautiful skin!

The 12 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin 

Are you bothered by dry skin? It can be difficult to deal with dry skin wherever it appears on your body, especially if it affects your face. Do you struggle to locate a moisturizer that will work for your extremely dry skin? We can assist you in locating the one that will serve your interests the best. Forever put an end to your spotty skin!

Best Overall: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

The Vanicream Daily Face Moisturizer is the way to go. It can be used all over your body and is effective not just on dry skin on the face. Due to a formula rich in hyaluronic acid and five ceramides, it imparts plenty of moisture.

Since the moisturizer doesn’t irritate or trigger breakouts, it is especially suitable for people with sensitive skin. Customers have also mentioned that it effectively hydrates skin all day long and serves as a good makeup base. Yet some people have complained that the moisturizer is too heavy and thick for them, and others have said that it might leave a white cast on the skin. 

Best for Acne-Prone: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

This dermatologist-recommended product helps rebuild the skin’s protective barrier. It’s a great choice to use before makeup because it absorbs quickly on the skin.

La Roche Posay Moisturizer’s review is full of comments which appreciated its non-greasy, lightweight composition. Others loved how effectively it worked under makeup. Some claimed it helped to enhance the texture of their sensitive skin and soothe it. However, others still considered it to be too heavy and it led to outbreaks. A few additional people made comments about the expensive pricing for the little goods. 

Best for Sensitive Skin: Glow Recipe Banana Souffle Moisture Face Cream

Due to its high magnesium and potassium content, the Glow Recipe Banana Soufflé Moisture Cream is perfect for skin that is prone to breakouts. Additionally, it contains soothing turmeric to even out uneven skin tone and calming magnesium to restore and preserve barrier health. This product is vegan and cruelty-free. It is also devoid of parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, phthalates, drying alcohols, and synthetic colors.

A significant plus is how light it feels. People adore how deeply moisturized and non-greasy it left their skin feeling. Others praised its relaxing impact on their sensitive skin, while some said it helped to balance out their skin tone and improve the texture of their skin. The product’s natural banana fragrance is highly favored. Nonetheless, some consumers with really dry skin said it wasn’t hydrating enough.

Best Hydrating: Dew Point by Versed Gel Cream 

An ultra-lightweight, non-comedogenic face moisturizer called Dew Point by Versed quickly hydrates and revives the skin without leaving any greasiness or shine. Aloe leaf juice hydrates, green tea extract fights free radicals and inflammation, and sodium hyaluronate draws in and retains moisture. All skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin, can use this gel moisturizer. 

Its jelly-like texture and fast absorption into the skin without leaving any residue were praised by many reviewers. Some reviewers, however, felt it was sticky. A few individuals report side effects such as itchiness and redness after using. 

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Want to moisturize your skin without spending a fortune? There isn’t a better choice than this outstanding value. Hyaluronic acid, which locks in moisture, and three different kinds of ceramides act in concert to prevent dryness on the body and face. 

The cream is praised by users for being soothing, non-greasy, hydrating, and improving skin texture. It also received a lot of praise from people who have eczema. Others who have used this product well concur. Customers who gave the cream a one-star review, yet typically experienced a negative reaction to it, such as a burning sensation or breakouts, while others said the texture was tacky.

Best for Texture: EltaMD AM Therapy Face Moisturizer

The EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer is perfect if you have dry skin and want a moisturizer that will apply smoothly and feel light. It quickly hydrates skin, leaves almost no residue that can be seen with the unaided eye, and has a cooling effect when used. Willow bark increases skin cell turnover without irritating skin while shearing. Non-comedogenic recipes aid in stimulating cells to increase absorption and retention.

One reviewer called it an “awesome” product that is perfect to use every morning under EltaMD sunscreen and is lightweight. According to a different reviewer, this moisturizer is ideal for sensitive skin and offers wonderful hydration without being greasy or heavy. However, some suggest that it might not be effective for everyone. One reviewer with sensitive skin that is prone to redness found it to be significantly too drying and had an odd aroma.

Best for Redness: Embryolisse Lait Crème

Sensitivity and dryness go hand in hand; both problems are frequently caused by a damaged skin barrier. Thankfully, this moisturizer that makeup artists adore does just that with the aid of shea butter. Aloe vera and other calming components are also included, providing quick relief and aid in reducing redness. 

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré claims that it can wash, moisturize, nourish, and protect the skin. Most consumers have complemented its hydrating and priming benefits, especially for dry skin and the winter. Nonetheless, some users report skin breakouts or displeasure with its thick texture.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Paula’s Choice Omega+ Complex Lightweight Face Moisturizer

This moisturizer from Paula’s Choice is an excellent choice for individuals who want to spend a bit extra money. The Omega+ Complex Moisturizer, which is abundant in antioxidants, regenerating ceramides, and superfood omega fatty acids, nourishes delicate skin and soothes any signs of stress and irritability. The skin’s barrier is strengthened, which is the best part because it helps stop further agitation.

The item appears to be a creamy moisturizer that absorbs well and has a pleasing feel that is lightweight. Numerous reviewers say it leaves their skin feeling moisturized and silky. Some reviewers with regular skin, nonetheless did not think it was extremely hydrating or noteworthy.

Best Multitasking: Alleyoop Dream Team 3-in-1 Moisturizer Eye Cream & Mask

Allow us to introduce you to a three-in-one moisturizer that should be on your radar if you want a simple skincare regimen. With its unique recipe, which doubles as both an eye cream and a face mask, you may use fewer items overall in your routine. Our tester favored its cloud-like texture, and three pumps were the ideal quantity.

Customers liked that the product could be used as a daily face moisturizer. Dry skin might benefit from a large application. They particularly loved the bottle pump’s locking function, which makes it portable and prevents spills. The product is suitable for sensitive skin because it has no aroma. Although a few users complained that the lotion gave them minor skin outbreaks, this was not a typical issue.

Best for Rough, Cracked, and Scaly Skin: Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream

With 48 hours of moisture, Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream is a particularly efficient treatment for severely dry skin. Due to its lack of perfumes, dyes, and parabens, it is excellent for sensitive skin and provides long-lasting comfort for excessively dry skin. The lotion is designed to restore extremely dry skin and leave it feeling and looking good.

This product’s cream recipe, which contains ceramides to rebuild the skin barrier and lessen moisture loss, offers rapid relief for extremely dry skin. It is suitable for people with aging skin and illnesses like diabetes, psoriasis, and xerosis. But those who are allergic to lanolin should refrain from using it. Those who like lightweight lotions may not be able to use the thick cream formulation.

Best for Aging Skin: St. Ives Renewing Collagen Elastin Moisturizer

This St. Ives moisturizer claims to soften and restore dry skin since it contains safflower seed oil, elastin, and collagen proteins. Both daytime and nighttime use benefit from its medium consistency. Skin can stretch and snap back into place with the assistance of collagen and elastin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

The formula was recently altered by the firm, and many reviewers dislike the new one. Nevertheless, a resounding majority of reviewers concur that it’s fantastic for dry skin. Some even say that because of the mild formula, it can help skin that is prone to acne. 

Best Natural: Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream

Weleda’s ultra-rich cream is another exceptional find for people with dry skin because it can be applied to the body as well as the face. To soothe your skin and retain moisture, it uses plant-based oils and other botanical ingredients like calendula, chamomile, pansy, and rosemary. This cream is also free of parabens, phthalates, and artificial perfumes.

The fact that this moisturizer is composed entirely of natural substances makes it a popular choice. Because it is adaptable, consumers can streamline their skincare routine. For those with sensitive skin, the fragrance might not be the best choice, as it can irritate or trigger allergic responses. Additionally, some people can find the product’s texture to be overly heavy, leaving their skin with a greasy or sticky feeling.

Depending on a person’s tastes and skin type, several moisturizers may be the best for dry skin. For extremely dry skin, it is typically advised to use products that contain moisturizing components. It’s critical to pick a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and issues and to include it in your regular skincare routine. Your skin can be efficiently repaired and protected with the right moisturizer, giving it a healthy appearance.