face cream without glycerin

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!

12 BEST BB CREAMS FOR OILY SKIN TO BUY

Does oily skin make you shy away from BB creams? Fret no more! BB creams can be your best friend, even with oily skin.  They offer the perfect combination of skincare and makeup, evening out your skin tone while providing hydration and sometimes even sun protection. But with so many options, finding the right one for your oily skin can be tricky. This guide will introduce you to the 12 best BB creams specifically formulated to combat shine and keep your complexion looking fresh all day long. So, get ready to ditch the shine and embrace the flawless, natural-looking coverage of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!

OUR TOP PICKS

MISSHA M PERFECT COVER B.B CREAM SPF 42 PA+++ NO. 23

Can’t be missing a classic! The Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42 PA+++ (in No. 23, Natural Beige) is a long-time favorite for oily skin types. This BB cream offers high coverage to even out skin tone and blemishes, while the lightweight formula controls shine and keeps you matte throughout the day.  It also boasts SPF 42 PA+++ for UVA and UVB protection, making it a great one-step solution for your morning routine.  Just be mindful that the shade No. 23 leans more neutral than yellow, so it might not be the best match for super fair or very warm skin tones.

ERBORIAN SUPER BB AU GINSENG NUDE

In a head-to-head battle for the best BB cream, Erborian emerged victorious.  It impressed with a stellar combination: a full-coverage formula that didn’t look cakey and a list of ingredients that went above and beyond.  This BB cream could easily replace your foundation, providing concealment while working wonders for your skin.  The formula is packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower for deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles blackheads and blemishes.  While an SPF boost would be ideal, this product truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it outperformed all the competition in our tests!

DR. JART+ BB PREMIUM BEAUTY BALM

Dr.Jart+ Premium BB Beauty Balm might be a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch. This BB cream offers light to medium coverage, evening out skin tone while still allowing your natural beauty to show through.  The cushiony-soft, creamy texture blends seamlessly for a natural finish.  While it doesn’t boast the highest SPF rating, it does offer sun protection (check the specific SPF on the product you’re considering, as Dr.Jart+ offers variations).  Like many BB creams, it also contains hydrating ingredients to keep your skin from feeling dry.  This BB cream is a good choice for oily skin types who want a natural-looking complexion with some coverage and a touch of hydration.

HOLIKA HOLIKA MOISTURIZING PETIT BB SPF 30 PA++

Oily skin still needs moisture! For those who prioritize keeping their skin hydrated, the Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream is a great choice. This K-Beauty favorite contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that plumps and smooths the skin for a dewy, healthy-looking finish. With nearly 4,000 five-star reviews on iHerb, customers rave about the BB cream’s natural, smooth finish and easy blending. As with any sunscreen product, always check the SPF label on the specific Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream you choose, and remember that sun protection is key. To ensure effective protection, avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply frequently as directed.

ESSENCE HYDRO HERO HYDRATING BB CREAM

Essence strikes again with a budget-friendly BB cream! At just £4, this option prioritizes makeup coverage over extensive skincare benefits.  While it offers fuller coverage than some other BB creams, it provides a more matte finish similar to a foundation.  This makes it a great choice for those seeking a lightweight, affordable foundation alternative.  Keep in mind that a little goes a long way with this product, and for the smoothest application, using a makeup brush or sponge is recommended.

TARTE BB TINTED TREATMENT

Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is like a two-in-one product that does both skincare and makeup jobs. It’s light and feels nice on your skin, acting as a moisturizer with a hint of color to even out your skin tone. Inside, there are good things for your skin like vitamin E, which keeps it healthy, and natural minerals that make your skin look smooth. When you put it on, it gives your skin a nice glow without feeling thick or heavy. It also has sun protection, which helps keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays when you wear it every day. Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is great for people who want an easy way to make their skin look nice while also taking care of it.

LA ROCHE-POSAY UVIDEA XL BB CREAM SPF50

Ideal for oily skin types seeking high sun protection, La Roche-Posay’s Uvidea XL BB Cream SPF50+ offers a winning combination of skincare and makeup. This BB cream boasts a powerful SPF 50+ rating with PPD protection, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.  Its lightweight, oil-free formula helps control shine and mattify the complexion, while still providing buildable coverage to even out skin tone.  La Roche-Posay is a dermatologist-recommended brand, so you can be confident this BB cream is gentle enough for even sensitive skin.

MONAT BB CREAM

This Monat BB cream is on the pricier side compared to others. It has a thick and rich texture, making it feel very luxurious, especially because it’s super moisturizing with coconut alkanes, which are great for dry skin. You don’t need to use much of it because a little goes a long way. You can just dab it on with your fingers for a natural look without needing a mirror. It doesn’t cover up blemishes, dark circles, or redness completely, so you might still need concealer for those. Plus, it has SPF 30, which is great for protecting your skin from the sun. Overall, our tester really liked it and plans to keep it in their makeup bag for a while.

ERBORIAN GINSENG BB CRÈME

Erborian’s Ginseng BB Crème emerged as the top contender in our quest for the best BB cream. It impressed with a double threat: exceptional coverage without looking cakey and a superstar ingredient list. This BB cream seamlessly replaces foundation, offering camouflage while working wonders for your skin’s health. Packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower, it delivers deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles pesky blackheads and blemishes.  Although an SPF boost would be a plus, Erborian truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it surpassed all competitors in our tests!

NAPOLEON PERDIS BBB CREAM BEAUTY-BOOSTING BALM SPF 30

Napoleon Perdis’ BBB Cream Beauty-Boosting Balm SPF 30 caters to those who desire a touch of everything in their base product. This multi-tasking balm combines the benefits of a skin-perfecting foundation, a nourishing moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection.  It boasts a lightweight, creamy texture that blends seamlessly for a natural, radiant finish.  While offering sheer to light coverage, the BBB Cream helps to even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.  For those with concerns about aging, the formula may include ingredients to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Napoleon Perdis is an Australian brand known for its high-quality cosmetics, so you can expect a luxurious feel and application.

GARNIER OIL-FREE PERFECTING CARE ALL-IN-ONE BB CREAM

If you have oily skin, you might have avoided using BB creams because they can make your skin look too shiny. But Garnier has a solution! Their BB cream is made especially for people with combination to oily skin. It goes on light and instantly evens out your skin tone while reducing shine. It won’t completely cover up dark circles or blemishes, so you might still need concealer for those. It has ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated. However, if your skin is dry, it might make it look a bit thick, so it’s best for people with oily or combination skin.

L’OREAL PARIS AGE PERFECT BB CREAM SPF 50

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect BB Cream SPF 50 caters to mature skin types seeking a one-step solution for a flawless complexion. This BB cream combines hydrating coverage with broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, making it ideal for daytime wear. The lightweight formula is designed to blend easily and avoid settling into fine lines, while offering buildable coverage to even out skin tone and imperfections.  It may also contain ingredients that address concerns specific to mature skin, such as age spots or loss of elasticity.  If you’re looking for a drugstore-friendly BB cream that provides sun protection, hydration, and a touch of coverage for mature skin, L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect is a great option to consider.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A BB CREAM FOR OILY SKIN

When searching for the perfect BB cream for your oily skin, here are some key factors to consider:

Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula: This is crucial to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Look for these terms on the label to ensure the BB cream won’t add extra oil to your skin.

Mattifying properties: Choose a BB cream that contains ingredients like mattifying powders or clay to absorb excess oil and control shine throughout the day.

Lightweight texture: Opt for a lightweight, water-based BB cream that feels comfortable on your skin and won’t weigh it down. Thick, heavy formulas can exacerbate oiliness.

Coverage level:  Consider how much coverage you need. BB creams typically offer light to medium coverage, which is ideal for most oily skin types. If you need more coverage, look for a BB cream with buildable coverage so you can customize it to your needs.

SPF protection:  Sun protection is essential for everyone, regardless of skin type.  Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

Hydration:  While oily skin might seem like it doesn’t need hydration, that’s not quite true.  Dehydrated skin can actually produce more oil to compensate. Choose a BB cream that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep your skin balanced.

Ingredients:  For oily skin, it can be beneficial to look for BB creams with ingredients that target specific concerns like niacinamide to minimize pores and blemishes, or salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A BB CREAM?

ALL-IN-ONE CONVENIENCE

BB creams streamline your routine by combining multiple functions. They typically provide light to medium coverage to even out skin tone, often with built-in moisturizer and SPF protection. This saves time in the morning and reduces the number of products you need to apply.

HYDRATION AND NOURISHMENT

Many BB creams are formulated with hydrating ingredients to keep your skin plump and supple. Some may also contain additional skincare benefits like antioxidants to fight free radical damage or ingredients that target specific concerns like blemishes or redness.

NATURAL-LOOKING COVERAGE

Unlike heavy foundations, BB creams offer a more sheer, natural-looking veil of coverage. This is ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight feel or those with already good skin that just needs a little evening out.

SUN PROTECTION

Many BB creams include SPF protection, which is crucial for preventing sun damage and signs of premature aging. Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for daily use.

DO YOU NEED TO USE A PRIMER BEFORE BB CREAM?

You don’t necessarily need to use a primer especially primer before BB cream, but it depends on your goals and skin type. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Skip the primer if:

  • Your BB cream has built-in mattifying properties and your skin isn’t oily.
  • You prefer a lightweight, natural look and don’t need extra coverage or longevity.
  • You’re new to makeup or just starting with BB creams.

Consider a primer if:

  • Your skin is oily and you want to control shine throughout the day.
  • You have large pores or uneven texture you want to smooth out.
  • You need your BB cream to last longer, especially if you have combination or oily skin.
  • You’re using a BB cream for fuller coverage and want a flawless base.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO APPLY A BB CREAM?

Prep your skin: Cleanse and moisturize your face as usual. For oily skin, consider a mattifying moisturizer to further control shine. Let your moisturizer fully absorb before applying BB cream.

Less is more: Squeeze a dime-sized amount of BB cream onto the back of your hand or a makeup palette. This helps avoid using too much product, which can look cakey.

Dot and blend: Use your fingertips or a damp makeup sponge to apply the BB cream. Dab small dots on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently blend the dots outwards and upwards using tapping or stippling motions for a natural finish.

Build coverage:  If you need more coverage, apply another thin layer of BB cream, focusing on areas that need it most. Be careful not to overdo it, as BB creams are designed for a natural look.

Set it (optional):  For oily skin, you can set your BB cream with a translucent powder to control shine and extend wear time. Apply a light dusting of powder with a fluffy brush, focusing on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REMOVE A BB CREAM AT THE END OF THE DAY?

Even though BB creams are lighter than foundations, removing them properly is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Here’s the best way to remove BB cream at the end of the day:

  • Start with a gentle oil-based cleanser or makeup remover. BB creams often contain oils and silicones, and oil-based cleansers are more effective at dissolving them. Apply the cleanser to dry skin and massage gently in circular motions for about 30 seconds.
  • Emulsify and rinse. Add a little water to your face to create a milky emulsion, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  • Double cleanse for stubborn makeup or sunscreen. If you wear heavy makeup or a BB cream with high SPF, you may want to double cleanse. Follow the oil cleanser with a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Pat your face dry with a clean towel and follow up with your usual skincare routine. This includes moisturizer and any other nighttime skincare products you use.

CONCLUSION

Oily skin can be tricky to manage, but finding the right primer or BB cream can be a game-changer! With its blend of makeup and skincare benefits, a BB cream can even out your skin tone, provide hydration, and even shield you from the sun – all while keeping shine under control. This guide explored 12 of the best BB creams formulated specifically for oily skin, offering a range of options from high-end splurges to drugstore favorites. We even covered some key factors to consider when making your choice. So, ditch the shine and embrace the natural, flawless look of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!