cleansing balm vs oil

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 ΒΌ 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!

15 OF THE BEST MAKEUP REMOVERS THAT DO NOT DISAPPOINT

Taking off your makeup shouldn’t feel like a chore. But let’s be honest, some makeup removers leave a greasy residue, struggle with waterproof mascara, or irritate your skin. Not ideal! Here’s where this list comes in. We’ve scoured the beauty world to find the 15 MVP makeup removers that effectively dissolve every trace of makeup, from long-wear foundation to budge-proof eyeliner, all while being gentle on your skin. Whether you’re a balm devotee, a micellar water enthusiast, or an oil cleansing aficionado, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover your new holy grail makeup remover that will leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and ready to breathe (without the stinging or dryness!).

OUR TOP PICKS 

BIODERMA SENSIBIO H2O – 16.7 OZ.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O in the 16.7 oz (500 ml) size is a popular choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective makeup remover, especially for sensitive skin. This micellar water utilizes micelles, tiny oil molecules suspended in water, to attract and remove makeup, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural oils. Known for its fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula, Bioderma Sensibio H2O soothes the skin and can be used on both the face and eyes. The larger 16.7 oz size is ideal for those who use makeup remover daily or prefer a more cost-effective option.

GARNIER SKINACTIVE MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water is a drugstore favorite known for its ability to cleanse and remove makeup gently. It utilizes micellar technology similar to Bioderma Sensibio H2O, with micelles capturing dirt, oil, and makeup without harsh rubbing. This Garnier micellar water is generally suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, thanks to its fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula. It’s a convenient option for those who want an all-in-one cleanser and makeup remover, leaving skin feeling refreshed and clean.

ELTAMD OIL-IN-GEL CLEANSE

EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser offers a unique cleansing experience, combining the power of an oil cleanser to melt away makeup and sunscreen with the gentle touch of a gel cleanser. This innovative formula effectively dissolves long-wearing makeup, water-resistant sunscreen, and everyday impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Unlike some oil cleansers that can leave a greasy residue, EltaMD’s oil-in-gel transforms into a lightweight lather that rinses clean, leaving skin feeling fresh and comfortable. This cleanser is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, thanks to its fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula (meaning it won’t clog pores).

ALGENIST GENIUS ULTIMATE ANTI-AGING MELTING CLEANSER

Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Melting Cleanser is a luxurious option that promises to cleanse, remove makeup, and deliver anti-aging benefits in one step. This oil-based cleanser transforms into a milky emulsion upon contact with water, effectively dissolving makeup and impurities. The formula boasts Alguronic Acid, a brand-specific anti-aging ingredient, and Microalgae Oil, rich in nutrients, to visibly replenish and smooth the skin. However, keep in mind that oil-based cleansers might not be ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types, so it’s best suited for normal, dry, or combination skin.

SISLEY PARIS GENTLE MAKE-UP REMOVER

Sisley Paris Gentle Make-Up Remover is a high-end option designed to whisk away makeup while being kind to your skin. This 3-in-1 formula acts as a makeup remover, cleanser, and toner, eliminating the need for multiple products in your routine. It utilizes micellar technology to gently capture and remove makeup, even waterproof mascara, without harsh rubbing. Formulated with plant-based extracts like cornflower and chamomile, this Sisley makeup remover soothes and refreshes the skin, leaving it feeling comfortable and balanced. While it caters to all skin types, the gentle formula makes it particularly well-suited for those with sensitive skin. However, be prepared for a higher price tag compared to drugstore options.

CERAVE HYDRATING MAKEUP CLEANSING BALM

CeraVe Hydrating Makeup Cleansing Balm is a drugstore favorite known for its ability to gently remove makeup while moisturizing the skin. This balm-to-milch cleanser transforms from a solid balm into a milky texture upon contact with water, effectively dissolving makeup, dirt, and oil. Enriched with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and jojoba oil, it cleanses without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling hydrated and comfortable. This fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

LA ROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER AND MAKEUP REMOVER FOR OILY SKIN

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Cleansing Water and Makeup Remover for Oily Skin is a targeted option designed to cleanse and remove makeup while catering to oily skin concerns. This micellar water utilizes micelles to capture dirt, oil, and makeup without harshly rubbing. The formula is specifically developed for oily, sensitive skin, incorporating La Roche-Posay’s prebiotic Thermal Water to soothe and Zinc PCA to help control oil and mattify the skin. This fragrance-free and non-comedogenic makeup remover cleanses without clogging pores, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and less oily.

CLINIQUE TAKE THE DAY OFF MAKEUP REMOVER

Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover is a popular choice for its effectiveness in removing all traces of makeup, including long-wearing products and waterproof mascara. This oil-free formula utilizes a blend of cleansing ingredients to gently dissolve makeup without irritating the skin. Suitable for dry, combination, and oily skin types, it leaves a refreshed feeling without any greasy residue. This Clinique makeup remover is particularly beloved for its ability to cleanse the delicate eye and lip areas without causing stinging or dryness.

RHODE PINEAPPLE REFRESH CLEANSER

The Rhode Pineapple Refresh Cleanser is a revitalizing skincare product designed to gently cleanse and rejuvenate the skin. Infused with the natural goodness of pineapple enzymes, it effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities while promoting a brighter complexion. This cleanser is known for its refreshing tropical scent and its ability to leave the skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. Suitable for all skin types, it balances cleansing with nourishment, making it a popular choice for those seeking a radiant and healthy glow.

IS CLINICAL CLEANSING COMPLEX

The iS Clinical Cleansing Complex is a powerful yet gentle facial cleanser formulated to effectively cleanse the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. This versatile cleanser is enriched with a blend of bio-nutrients, antioxidants, and mild resurfacing ingredients to deeply cleanse pores, remove impurities, and refine texture. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. With regular use, the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex helps to improve the overall clarity, tone, and smoothness of the skin, leaving it refreshed, balanced, and radiant.

EVE LOM THE CLEANSER

Eve Lom’s The Cleanser is a luxurious and iconic skincare product renowned for its effectiveness in thoroughly cleansing the skin while providing nourishment and hydration. This multi-award-winning cleanser is formulated with a unique blend of aromatic plant oils, including eucalyptus, clove, and chamomile, which work together to dissolve makeup, impurities, and pollutants, leaving the skin feeling deeply cleansed and refreshed. The rich, balm-like texture melts upon contact with the skin, allowing for a luxurious massage experience that promotes circulation and lymphatic drainage. Additionally, The Cleanser comes with a muslin cloth, which helps to gently exfoliate and polish the skin, revealing a smoother and more radiant complexion. Suitable for all skin types, this cult-favorite cleanser delivers spa-like results from the comfort of your own home.

MAYBELLINE EXPERT EYES OIL FREE EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

Maybelline Expert Eyes Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is a trusted product designed specifically for effectively and gently removing eye makeup. Formulated without oil, it efficiently dissolves stubborn eye makeup, including waterproof mascara and long-wearing eyeliner, without leaving behind any greasy residue. This gentle yet powerful formula is ophthalmologist-tested, making it safe for use around the delicate eye area and suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers. The Maybelline Expert Eyes Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover leaves the skin around the eyes feeling clean, refreshed, and free from makeup, allowing for a comfortable and soothing experience.

CETAPHIL GENTLE WATERPROOF MAKEUP REMOVER

Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover is a dermatologist-developed formula crafted to effectively remove stubborn makeup while remaining gentle on the skin. Specifically designed for waterproof and long-lasting makeup, this remover effortlessly lifts away impurities without causing irritation or drying out the skin. Its non-greasy and fragrance-free formulation makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. With a blend of gentle yet effective ingredients, including aloe vera and soothing botanicals, Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover leaves the skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed after each use. It’s a trusted choice for those seeking a reliable makeup remover that respects the skin’s natural balance.

TATCHA PURE ONE-STEP CAMELLIA CLEANSING OIL

Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil is a luxurious skincare essential meticulously crafted to gently yet effectively remove makeup and impurities from the skin. Infused with precious botanical oils, including camellia and rice bran, this cleansing oil effortlessly dissolves even the most stubborn makeup while nourishing and hydrating the skin. Its lightweight and silky texture glides smoothly across the skin, transforming into a milky emulsion upon contact with water, rinsing away without leaving any residue. This non-comedogenic formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil leaves the skin feeling clean, soft, and radiant, making it an indulgent addition to any skincare routine.

AVENE XERACALM A.D LIPID-REPLENISHING CLEANSING OIL

Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil is a gentle yet effective skincare solution tailored for those with dry, itchy, and eczema-prone skin. Formulated with a high concentration of Avene Thermal Spring Water, this cleansing oil provides immediate soothing and calming relief to irritated skin. Enriched with a unique blend of lipid-replenishing oils, including evening primrose oil and ceramides, it helps restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier while gently cleansing away impurities and allergens. This soap-free and fragrance-free formula is specifically designed to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and irritation, making it suitable for infants, children, and adults alike. Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil leaves the skin feeling nourished, comfortable, and replenished, promoting long-lasting hydration and relief from dryness and discomfort.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST MAKEUP REMOVERS

Choosing the best makeup remover depends on two main factors: your skin type and your makeup routine. Here’s a breakdown to help you find your perfect match:

CONSIDER YOUR SKIN TYPE

  • Dry Skin: Opt for oil-based removers, balms, or cleansing creams. These gently dissolve makeup without stripping natural oils, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and comfortable. Examples include EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Makeup Cleansing Balm, or Eve Lom Cleanser.
  • Oily Skin: Micellar water is a great choice for oily skin. It effectively removes makeup and dirt without leaving a greasy residue. Look for formulas specifically designed for oily skin, like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Cleansing Water.
  • Combination Skin: You might find success with a cleansing balm or oil cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Sensitive Skin: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas are key! Micellar waters or gentle cleansing balms are good options. Look for ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid for added hydration. Cetaphil Gentle Waterproof Makeup Remover or Bioderma Sensibio H2O are popular choices.

THINK ABOUT YOUR MAKEUP ROUTINE

  • Heavy Makeup Wearer: If you wear a lot of makeup, especially waterproof mascara or eyeliner, an oil-based cleanser or balm might be more effective for complete removal. Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover is a good example.
  • Light Makeup Wearer: Micellar water or a gentle cleansing balm might be sufficient for a light makeup routine.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

  • Read Reviews: See what others with similar skin types are saying about different makeup removers.
  • Consider a Double Cleanse: For heavy makeup or oily skin, you can try double cleansing. First, use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, then follow with a water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin, always do a patch test on your inner arm before using a new makeup remover on your face.

CONCLUSION 

Washing away the day shouldn’t be a battle. With this diverse range of makeup removers, you can find the perfect solution to melt away every trace of makeup, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and ready for the next step in your skincare routine. Whether you crave a gentle micellar water, a luxurious cleansing balm, or an oil-based cleanser that conquers waterproof mascara, this list has you covered. Remember to consider your skin type and makeup needs to find your ideal match. Happy cleansing!