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16 BEST CLEANSERS FOR COMBINATION SKIN, ACCORDING TO DERM

Combination skin can be tricky. You might have an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and dry cheeks, or flaky patches around your mouth but a shiny forehead. Finding the right cleanser is key to balancing your skin and keeping it healthy. Luckily, there are many great cleansers out there for combination skin. Here, we’ll round up 16 of the best, according to dermatologists, to help you find the perfect one for your unique needs.

CETAPHIL DAILY FACIAL CLEANSER FOR NORMAL TO OILY SKIN

Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin is a gentle yet effective option for those with combination skin. Dermatologist-tested and formulated to be non-irritating, it cleanses without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This is crucial for combination skin, as it can help control shine in the oilier T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) without leaving cheeks dry or tight. This cleanser’s ability to balance oil production makes it a popular choice for those seeking a solution for their unique skin type.

CERAVE HYDRATING CREAM-TO-FOAM CLEANSER

CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser is another excellent choice for combination skin. Developed with dermatologists, this cleanser starts as a luxurious cream before transforming into a soft lather upon contact with water. This unique texture effectively removes dirt, oil, and even light makeup without stripping away essential moisture. Unlike some cleansers that leave skin feeling tight and dry, CeraVe’s formula gently cleanses while maintaining the skin’s natural hydration balance. This makes it ideal for combination skin, as it can address oiliness in the T-zone without compromising the comfort of drier areas.

LA ROCHE-POSAY TOLERIANE PURIFYING FOAMING CLEANSER

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a gentle cleanser formulated specifically for combination to oily sensitive skin. This fragrance-free cleanser uses a minimalist formula with La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water to soothe and calm irritation. It also contains glycerin to attract and retain moisture, preventing dryness. The cleanser’s gentle foaming action effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural balance. This makes it suitable for those with combination skin who experience sensitivity or dryness alongside oiliness.

NEUTROGENA ULTRA GENTLE DAILY CLEANSER – 16 OZ.

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser comes in a larger 16 oz. size, making it a budget-friendly option for those who like to stock up. This fragrance-free cleanser is dermatologist-approved and clinically proven to be gentle enough for sensitive skin. It effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities without leaving skin feeling stripped or tight. Neutrogena’s formula is designed to cleanse without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier, which is essential for combination skin. This cleanser can help keep your oily T-zone feeling refreshed without exacerbating dryness in other areas.

MA:NYO PURE CLEANSING OIL KOREAN FACIAL CLEANSER

ANDALOU NATURALS 1000 ROSES CLEANSING FOAM

Andalou Naturals 1000 Roses Cleansing Foam caters to those with combination skin seeking a natural solution. This gentle cleanser is infused with rose water and alpine rose stem cells, which help remove makeup, impurities, and dull surface skin cells. Pomegranate extract works to brighten and even skin tone, while hyaluronic acid and aloe vera keep your skin hydrated. This botanical blend cleanses without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier, making it suitable for combination skin. The rose water base adds a refreshing touch, while the focus on botanical ingredients appeals to those who prefer natural skincare products.

MA:NYO PURE & DEEP CLEANSING FOAM

Ma:nyo Pure & Deep Cleansing Foam is a Korean skincare favorite known for its ability to cleanse combination skin effectively. This cleanser utilizes a 100% vegan formula that gently removes dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping away essential moisture. It contains a unique complex of 10 floral extracts that help soothe and soften the skin. This cleanser’s strength lies in its ability to balance oil production. It can help keep the T-zone shine-free without leaving cheeks or other areas feeling dry or tight. For those with combination skin seeking a gentle yet effective cleanser that caters to their specific needs, Ma:nyo Pure & Deep Cleansing Foam is a popular choice.

SIMPLE KIND TO SKIN MOISTURIZING FACIAL WASH

Simple Kind to Skin Moisturizing Facial Wash is a gentle cleanser designed for those with sensitive skin, including combination skin. This fragrance-free and dye-free formula prioritizes minimizing irritation. It cleanses effectively without stripping away natural oils, making it suitable for even the most delicate complexions. Packed with pro-vitamin B5, vitamin E, and triple-purified water, this cleanser helps keep skin hydrated and comfortable. Simple Kind to Skin Moisturizing Facial Wash is a great option for those with combination skin who experience sensitivity alongside areas of oiliness. It can cleanse the T-zone without disrupting the moisture balance in drier areas.

CURE AQUA GEL

Cure Aqua Gel is designed specifically for combination skin types, offering a balanced approach to skincare. Its formulation aims to address both dry and oily areas without causing imbalance. This product gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells and impurities to reveal smoother and clearer skin. By maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier, it helps to prevent dryness while controlling excess oil production. Ideal for daily use, Cure Aqua Gel provides a refreshing and revitalizing experience, promoting a more even complexion and a healthier overall appearance.

VANICREAM GENTLE FACIAL CLEANSER

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free and dermatologist-recommended option ideal for combination skin. This cleanser prioritizes a non-irritating formula that cleanses effectively without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This is crucial for combination skin, as it can cleanse the oilier T-zone without leaving cheeks or other areas feeling dry or tight. Packed with ingredients like glycerin and caprylyl glycol, it helps attract and retain moisture, keeping your skin feeling comfortable throughout the day. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a great choice for those with combination skin seeking a simple, fragrance-free cleanser that caters to their specific needs.

NEUTROGENA OIL-FREE SALICYLIC ACID ACNE FACE WASH AND FACIAL CLEANSER

The Neutrogena Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Face Wash and Facial Cleanser is a highly recommended skincare product that is designed to fight acne. Its potent formula, which includes salicylic acid, is meant to cleanse deep into the pores to clear the skin and even prevent future acne breakouts. Not only does it treat existing acne, but it also helps to prevent new ones from forming. This daily facial cleanser is specially designed to be gentle on the skin while still delivering powerful acne-fighting results. As a bonus, it also includes special skin soothers to prevent your skin from feeling dry after use. The product comes in special Care with Pride packaging and is available in a value two-pack. This facial cleanser is a wonderful option for those with acne-prone skin, designed to leave skin feeling fresh and clean.

YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE SUPERFOOD CLEANSER

Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser is a daily facial cleanser packed with beneficial superfoods. This product, brimming with green tea, spinach, and kale antioxidants, is designed to cleanse, balance, and nourish your skin. It effectively removes makeup, prevents pore buildup and supports your skin’s pH balance without drying or stripping it. This cleanser is also gentle on the skin, making it suitable for oily, normal, and combination skin types. It has been recognized for its excellent performance, winning Allure’s 2021 Best of Beauty Award. Furthermore, this cleanser does not contain sulfates SLS and SLES, making it a healthier choice for your skin. Available in both full-size and travel-size versions, the Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser complements any skincare routine, promoting clean and healthy skin.

SIO MULTIVITAMIN FACE & BODY SCRUB

SIO Multivitamin Face & Body Scrub is a fantastic product designed to rejuvenate your skin. This scrub is aimed at buffing away dull and dead skin while also smoothing fine lines. It contains Ultra-Fine Perlite, a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to plastic microbeads. This component helps to sweep away flakes and rough patches, revealing smoother and brighter skin instantaneously. The scrub is also enriched with Vitamins A, C, E, and B5. These vitamins work together to plump, brighten, hydrate, and smooth your skin. This product is safe to use on the face, body, and even lips. It’s fragrance-free, making it suitable for people who are sensitive to strong scents. The scrub is also versatile and can be used to alleviate dryness and flakiness, leading to softer and healthier skin. Its rich and creamy texture makes the scrubbing process enjoyable while effectively exfoliating the skin. The SIO Multivitamin Face & Body Scrub is a fantastic addition to your skincare routine, helping you achieve renewed, radiant skin.

NEUTROGENA SKIN BALANCING PURIFYING GEL CLEANSER

Neutrogena Skin Balancing Purifying Gel Cleanser is a top-rated product that is perfect for normal to combination skin. The cleanser works effectively to remove pore-clogging dirt and impurities, while simultaneously smoothing and softening the skin. It targets 100% of pore-clogging dirt and impurities, ensuring your skin receives a deep cleanse. What sets this product apart is its ability to condition the skin while cleansing, maintaining the skin’s natural balance. It is a product from Neutrogena, a brand that is recommended by dermatologists and recognized for its commitment to skincare. This purifying face wash is also praised for its softening effects, making it a great addition to any skincare routine. The cleanser is paraben-free, soap-free, and sulfate-free, making it a safe choice for your skin. It comes in a 6.3 oz size, and has received positive feedback from users for its effectiveness.

CLARK’S BOTANICALS HEAL AND HYDRATE B3 CLEANSER

Clark’s Botanicals Heal and Hydrate B3 Cleanser is a wonderful skincare product that promises to purify and revive your skin. This foamy, creamy cleanser presents an innovative formula featuring microbubbles that deeply cleanse without causing any dryness. It is enriched with niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, and vitamin C, which work together to clarify your skin and minimize pores. The result is a bright, revitalized complexion that feels fresh and clean. This product doesn’t just cleanse your skin, it also offers hydration, making it stand out in the skincare market. Moreover, it’s a part of the Clark’s Botanicals range, a brand known for its high-quality skincare products. This cleanser has garnered positive feedback from users, with many praising its effectiveness in deep cleansing and hydrating. The Heal and Hydrate B3 Cleanser is a great addition to any daily skincare routine, delivering a deep clean while ensuring your skin stays hydrated and healthy.

SKINMEDICA AHA/BHA EXFOLIATING CLEANSER

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is an exceptional skincare product that combines alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids to exfoliate and improve the skin’s texture and tone. It is designed to gently scrub away dead skin, providing a deep cleanse that unclogs pores and enhances the appearance of the skin. The product contains round soft jojoba spheres that offer gentle exfoliation, along with lavender extract which tones and soothes inflammation. The cleanser also includes mildly astringent citrus oils that work to minimize large pores. This product is highly rated and well appreciated by users for its effectiveness in improving the skin’s tone and texture. It is recommended to use it as part of your daily skincare routine to achieve a smoother and brighter complexion. With its exfoliating properties and skin-improving ingredients, SkinMedica’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser promises to deliver noticeable results for your skin.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

When choosing a cleanser for combination skin, there are several key factors to consider. You should look for a cleanser that is gentle and won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Lightweight, non-comedogenic (i.e., won’t clog pores) products are typically a safe bet.

If your skin is acne-prone, consider a cleanser that contains salicylic and glycolic acid. Salicylic acid can help clear pores of debris and oils, preventing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) from forming. Glycolic acid is useful for exfoliating and hydrating dry skin.

Avoid products that are too harsh or drying, as these can exacerbate oil production in the T-zone and further dry out the cheeks. Look for cleansers that effectively remove excess oil but still leave your skin feeling hydrated.

Also, consider the brand’s reputation and whether the product is dermatologist-recommended. Renowned brands like Neutrogena and La Roche-Posay offer cleansers specifically designed for combination skin.

Lastly, remember that everyone’s skin is unique, so what works for others might not work for you. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect cleanser for your combination skin.

HOW TO CLEANSE COMBINATION SKIN

Cleansing combination skin effectively involves a particular process and certain types of products to ensure both the oily and dry areas of your skin are cared for. Here’s how you can cleanse your combination skin:

Wet your face with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can dry out your skin and stimulate oil production in the oily areas.
Using your fingertips, apply a cleanser that’s specifically designed for combination skin. Some recommended products include Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser and La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser. These cleansers are gentle yet effective, ensuring your skin is thoroughly cleaned without causing irritation.
Use gentle circular motions to massage the cleanser into your skin. This will help to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin.
Rinse the cleanser off your face with lukewarm water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent any cleanser residue from clogging your pores.
Pat your face dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing your face with the towel as this can irritate your skin. Also, be sure to change your face towel often to prevent bacteria transfer that can cause breakouts.
After cleansing, apply a moisturizer that’s suitable for combination skin. You may need two different moisturizers to hydrate and nourish the various parts of your face. A creamy formula is ideal for dry areas, and a lighter, oil-free moisturizer works well for the oily parts of your skin.

Remember, remember to cleanse your face at least once a day, preferably in the evening to remove the day’s buildup of oil, dirt, and makeup. However, your morning routine can be adjusted according to your skin’s needs. If your skin feels overly oily when you wake up, you can cleanse again. But if it feels comfortable, you might just rinse with water and then apply your moisturizer and other skincare products.

CONCLUSION

Let your skin ‘relax’ after hours of immersing yourself in foundations for combination skin. Finding the right cleanser for combination skin can feel like searching for the Holy Grail. But fear not! With this list of dermatologist-recommended cleansers, you have a great starting point to target both oily and dry areas and achieve a balanced, healthy complexion. Remember to consider your specific skin concerns—such as acne or sensitivity—when making your choice. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find the cleanser that perfectly complements your unique combination skin!

18 BEST SHAMPOOS FOR OILY HAIR IN 2024

It might be difficult to find a shampoo that works well for people with oilier hair types. The mixture ought to cleanse hair thoroughly without depriving it of essential oils, amplify its inherent luster, and prolong the intervals between shampoos. Your entire hair care regimen will function flawlessly with the ideal oily hair-friendly shampoo. If you have been struggling with finding the answer to the question of what is the best shampoo for oily hair, you have come to the right place.

NÉCESSAIRE SHAMPOO

Nécessaire, a company well-known for its sophisticated formulae and stylish branding, has done it again with this shampoo. A fragrance-free shampoo may sound uninteresting to some, but for those who get headaches easily, have allergies, or want their perfumes to steal the show, it’s a dream come true. The product has a creamy, gel-like texture, and we were really impressed with how nicely it lathers. When you gently massage your scalp, a creamy cluster of bubbles will form, providing a sensory sensation while you cleanse your hair and scalp. But for certain clients, it could be a little too drying but it’s still a good shampoo for oily hair.

KRISTIN ESS CLARIFYING SHAMPOO

We recommend this shampoo if you’re seeking an affordable option that will effectively cleanse your oily hair. Its unique strengthening component helps to minimize the look of damaged strands, and we adore that it effectively removes oil and filth without overly drying out the hair. Despite being appropriate for all hair types, its lightweight texture makes it especially simple to work through fine hair. It doesn’t lather very well on the first shampoo, so you’ll probably want to shampoo twice with this recipe. However, once it breaks through the first layer of grime, it lathers brilliantly, usually on the second shampoo.

OUAI DETOX SHAMPOO

With the use of this clarifying product, buildup and grease can be removed from the scalp along with pollutants, free radicals, and other impurities. Though some find its aroma somewhat too much, people adore that it contains apple cider vinegar to aid in its purifying properties. We think you’ll adore this formula if the aroma isn’t an issue for you. This pick has a rich texture, produces a silky lather, and is designed to be used in the shower for several minutes to properly do its magic. You should anticipate having perfectly clean hair after rinsing it out.

REDKEN HAIR CLEANSING CREAM

Hard water contains a lot of minerals, which over time can build up in the hair and cause it to seem greasy and lifeless. It’s a good idea to use a shampoo that works to neutralize mineral buildup, like this one, if you regularly shower in hard water. This solution eliminates excess oil from the scalp and minerals like copper, iron, magnesium, and calcium that are commonly present in hard water with just one shampoo. It’s quite clarifying the first time around, so you won’t need to shampoo and rinse twice with it. It also produces a delicate lather that’s easy to massage around the head.

LIVING PROOF PHD TRIPLE DETOX SHAMPOO

If you have oily hair in addition to color or keratin treatments, you may find yourself in a difficult situation because frequent shampooing might reduce the longevity of these treatments. The fix: An excellent purifying shampoo that is safe for color and keratin. It works to totally cut through extra oil to reveal squeaky clean, smooth, and lustrous hair without affecting color or treatments. It is made with an anionic polymer to eliminate impurities and buildup and activated charcoal to absorb oil. This shampoo, like the most on our list, may feel a little drying on your hair because it is best suited for oily scalps.

AG CARE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR SHAMPOO

Sulfates are not intrinsically harmful; in fact, they function as detergents in shampoo compositions. These substances can be very good in removing extra grease from oily hair, but they typically receive a poor rap because they can be a touch harsh and stripping for those with dry or damaged hair. This shampoo is for you, though, if you’d rather stick to sulfate-free formulations and still need something to thoroughly clean oily hair. It takes some getting used to because the lightweight texture is a little watery, but it does lather and requires less product to do the job.

dpHUE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR SHAMPOO

Unlike many strong shampoos that eventually fade color treatments, dpHUE’s mild cleanser-like shampoo kept our hair color vibrant and consequently increased the intervals between salon appointments. With apple cider vinegar for cleaning and aloe vera, ginger root extract, and lavender for soothing the scalp, the recipe is extremely gentle. Because of this, it didn’t foam up like conventional shampoos and we had to rinse it twice or more to get a clean feeling. Similar to the Ouai choice, apple cider vinegar isn’t particularly loved by consumers, but this product’s softness is excellent.

ORIBE SERENE SCALP OIL CONTROL SHAMPOO

This shampoo is rich without being overly thick, which is different from most light and sudsy shampoos for oily hair. It contains green sea algae and a prebiotic made of sugar to fight oil at its source. It also balances the microbiome of your scalp to help restore your hair to its natural state and produces just the right amount of oil to hydrate your hair without making it feel heavy. Those with thin hair who believe they can’t get their roots totally clean are the target audience for this shampoo. For individuals with thicker hair, the quantity of product offered for the price makes this shampoo difficult to recommend, but if it will help you avoid washing your hair every few days, it’s well worth the cost.

DIVI SHAMPOO

This shampoo resembles a hybrid of a shampoo and a scalp serum. Tea tree oil, betaine, and menthol invigorate your scalp and senses while also removing harmful build-up from your hair and scalp. It lathers like a shampoo but penetrates like a serum. Excess oil is drawn to the tea tree oil, which then locks onto and removes it as it runs down the drain. Just a plus is the pump bottle. Some persons who are allergic to essential oils or have sensitivity to fragrances may find it too powerful, even though many enjoy the invigorating perfume and exciting experience.

AVEDA ROSEMARY MINT PURIFYING SHAMPOO

White vinegar helps to clarify oily hair, and micelles aid in gently removing product build-up from hair. The vinegar works especially well to remove wax-based products from your hair without being harsh or stripping. All hair types, from extremely thin to extra thick, are ideal candidates for lightweight excellence. This shampoo gives just enough slide to fine hair that tangles easily when wet, making it simple to massage the product all the way into the roots. Your regular shower gains an aromatherapy element from the invigorating rosemary scent, which turns it into a luxurious sensory experience that encourages you to take your time applying the product to your lengths and ends.

PAUL MITCHELL TEA TREE SPECIAL SHAMPOO

Known for its unique tingling sensation, this best-selling shampoo combines soothing natural ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint, and lavender to help wash away grime and oil, leaving your scalp feeling clean and rejuvenated. It is simple to massage the suds into your scalp and ends because of the lightweight gel-like formula’s good lather and spreading properties. Unlike other shampoos, you can actually feel the cleanness that this shampoo delivers to your locks, which you know is especially crucial if you suffer from oily roots. You save time in the mornings and your style lasts for several days because of that fresh feeling. It’s strong enough to give you a thorough deep clean, but gentle enough to use every time you wash your hair.

R+Co TELEVISION PERFECT HAIR SHAMPOO

Greasy roots are the fastest way to ruin a great hair day. This smoothing shampoo gives you the lustrous, healthy-looking hair you desire while also getting rid of greasy roots. The key is juniper berry extract; it helps balance the oils on your scalp, some of which are good for your hair’s health and help stop build-up before it starts. Glycerin, a naturally occurring humectant, assists in preserving the moisture equilibrium of hair. People adore how this shampoo improves all hair types; for straight hair, it gives body and shine, and for curly hair, it makes curls bouncy and shiny.

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE SUNDAY SHAMPOO

Use Bumble & Bumble’s Sunday Shampoo to start a new weekend ritual. This shampoo is not something you should use every day; instead, save it for the days when you have the leisure to really engage in self-care. This deep cleanser, which is designed to break down oil and product build-up, instantly lifts away all impurities from your scalp for an exceptional clean, enabling you to start the week with even fresher hair. For people with thinner hair who easily become bogged down by heavier products, this shampoo is great.

OGX REFRESHING SCALP+ TEA TREE MINT SHAMPOO

With a cooling effect, the Refreshing Scalp+ Tea Tree Mint Shampoo is designed to thoroughly clean and refresh the scalp. The two main components of this shampoo are peppermint and tea tree oils. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial qualities that are well-known for helping with dryness and dandruff on the scalp. In contrast, peppermint oil has a cooling effect and has the potential to stimulate the scalp.

VIRTUE FULL SHAMPOO

A volumizing and lightly hydrating solution that clarifies the scalp is necessary for fine hair. With the help of the company’s own Alpha Keratin 60ku protein, which replicates the keratin that naturally exists in the hair, the Virtue Full Shampoo accomplishes precisely that. This ingredient gives this sulfate- and cruelty-free shampoo extra credit because it repairs damage from the inside out.

CURLSMITH WASH & SCRUB DETOX SHAMPOO

Curlsmith Wash & Scrub Detox Shampoo’s moisturizing and clarifying composition is ideal for people with curly hair. Perlite, a mineral included in the creamy texture, gently exfoliates the scalp by removing peeling skin and product buildup without changing the natural curl pattern of your hair. Probiotics help maintain the proper balance of germs on the scalp, making it less oily over time. This shampoo helps achieve this goal. However, it should be noted that the company advises starting with its Super Slip Pre-Wash Primer, which is an additional cost.

K18 PEPTIDE PREP DETOX SHAMPOO

The moisturizing and clarifying formula of Curlsmith Wash & Scrub Detox Shampoo is perfect for those with curly hair. A mineral included in the creamy texture called perlite gently exfoliates the scalp by eliminating product buildup and peeling skin without altering your hair’s natural curl pattern. Over time, probiotics help reduce scalp oiliness by preserving the healthy balance of microorganisms on the scalp. This shampoo aids in achieving the objective. It should be mentioned, nevertheless, that the business suggests utilizing their Super Slip Pre-Wash Primer first—a costlier product. It should not, however, be used in place of a regular shampoo; rather, it should only be used as necessary.

BRIOGEO BIOTIN VOLUMIZING SHAMPOO

Briogeo’s Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Shampoo claims to lift and volumize fine, lifeless hair without depleting it of moisture. A natural starch called maltodextrin is a part of the mix that covers each strand of hair to give it the volume that finer hair lacks. Ginseng is added to promote blood flow to the scalp while biotin fortifies the ends. Furthermore, even the oiliest scalp types are cleansed by mild chelating agents, revealing hair that feels full and refreshed.

Using a clarifying hair cleanser and giving your scalp a thorough scrub on wash day is one of the greatest ways to treat a greasy scalp. Those with oily hair should first use a shampoo that will absorb the oil and wash the scalp before using products like hair masks and heat protectants. We’ve compiled the top shampoos for oily hair of all kinds, whether your hair is curly, straight, or color-treated. Take a look at our suggestions to make the best buy.