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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!

HOW TO WASH MAKEUP BRUSHES

Your makeup brushes are the unsung heroes of your beauty routine. They help you apply foundation flawlessly, blend eyeshadow like a pro, and achieve that perfect winged eyeliner. But, just like any tool, they require regular cleaning to function at their best. Dirty makeup brushes are more than just gross—they can be a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially leading to breakouts, irritation, and even infection. That’s why it’s important to clean your brushes regularly, ideally once a week.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES

Regularly cleaning your makeup brushes is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and ensuring the best application of your cosmetics. Ideally, you should clean your brushes at least once a week to prevent the buildup of makeup residue, oils, and bacteria. Dirty brushes not only compromise the effectiveness of your makeup application but can also contribute to skin issues such as breakouts, irritation, and infections.

Establishing a consistent cleaning routine is particularly important if you use your brushes daily. The accumulation of product and impurities on the bristles can not only affect the performance of the brushes but may also lead to skin problems over time. By incorporating regular cleaning into your beauty regimen, you ensure that your makeup tools remain in optimal condition, providing you with a flawless application and promoting the overall health of your skin.

In addition to weekly cleaning, it’s essential to spot-clean your brushes between uses, especially if you switch between different products or colors. This quick maintenance routine helps remove excess product and maintains the integrity of your brushes, extending their lifespan. By adopting these habits, you’ll not only enhance your makeup application but also prioritize the health and hygiene of your skin.

STEPS TO CLEAN MAKEUP BRUSHES

Start by gathering all the necessary supplies. You’ll need lukewarm water, a bowl, and a gentle shampoo or clarifying shampoo. Avoid using plain soap and water, as it can dry out the bristles over time. Selecting the right shampoo is key to preserving the softness and quality of your brush bristles.

STEP 1: WASH THE BRUSH HEAD

Begin the cleaning process by rinsing the tips of your brushes under lukewarm, running water. This step is essential for removing residual makeup and ensuring the bristles are free from any product buildup. Focus on the tips while avoiding submerging the entire brush head. Submerging the whole head can compromise the glue that connects the brush head to the handle.

STEP 2: ADD A TABLESPOON OF SHAMPOO

Once the tips are thoroughly rinsed, fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a tablespoon of the chosen shampoo. Swirl the brushes in the soapy water, ensuring that the bristles are fully immersed. Gently agitate the brushes to loosen any remaining makeup, oils, or impurities.

STEP 3: CLEAN THE BRUSH BRISTLES

After allowing the brushes to soak for a few minutes, use your fingers to gently lather the shampoo through the bristles. Pay attention to the base of the bristles near the ferrule, where makeup residue tends to accumulate. Be cautious not to press too hard, as this can damage the bristles.

STEP 4: RINSE THE BRUSHES

Rinse the brushes under running water again, ensuring that all soap and makeup residues are thoroughly washed away. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, indicating that the brushes are clean.

STEP 5: SQUEEZE OUT THE WATER

Gently squeeze out excess water from the bristles using a clean towel or paper towel. Reshape the brush heads to their original form to maintain their structure. Avoid pulling on the bristles, as this can lead to shedding or misshaping.

STEP 6: ALLOW THE BRUSH TO DRY

Finally, lay the brushes flat on a clean towel to air dry. Ensure they are arranged in a way that allows air circulation around each brush head. Avoid leaving brushes upright while drying, as water can seep into the ferrule and compromise the glue.

WHAT SHOULD YOU USE TO CLEAN YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES?

Parian Spirit Professional Makeup Brush Cleaner: Parian Spirit Professional Makeup Brush Cleaner is a renowned and widely trusted product in the beauty industry, specifically formulated for the efficient and effective cleaning of makeup brushes. This professional-grade cleaner is favored by makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike for its exceptional performance and quick-drying formula. Key features of Parian Spirit Professional Makeup Brush Cleaner include its fast-drying nature, making it a convenient choice for those who require a rapid turnaround between makeup applications. The cleaner is designed to thoroughly remove makeup residues, oils, and impurities from both natural and synthetic bristles, ensuring that brushes remain pristine and ready for flawless makeup application.

Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser: Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser is a beloved skincare product that has garnered a reputation for its simplicity and effectiveness. This gentle yet efficient cleanser is designed to remove makeup, cleanse the skin, and tone in a single step. The formula is mild and suitable for all skin types, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and balanced. Philosophy Purity Made Simple is known for its ability to dissolve dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. With a light and refreshing fragrance, this one-step facial cleanser has become a staple in many skincare routines, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to uncomplicated yet powerful skincare solutions.

Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleanser: Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleanser is a professional-grade solution that has become a go-to choice for makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike. This cleanser is specifically formulated to quickly and effectively clean makeup brushes, removing residual makeup, oils, and impurities. Known for its fast-drying formula, Cinema Secrets allows for swift and convenient brush cleaning, making it an ideal choice for busy professionals in the beauty industry. The cleanser is suitable for both natural and synthetic bristles, maintaining the integrity of the brushes while ensuring they stay hygienic and ready for flawless makeup application. With its efficient performance and ease of use, Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleanser has earned a reputation for being a reliable and time-saving tool in the world of makeup artistry.

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap: Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap is a popular household product known for its effective cleaning power and delightful scents. Formulated with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, this dish soap cuts through grease and grime, leaving dishes sparkling clean. What sets Mrs. Meyer’s apart is its commitment to using biodegradable and environmentally friendly components, making it a conscious choice for eco-conscious consumers. The various scents, such as lavender, lemon verbena, and basil, add a refreshing touch to the dishwashing experience. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap not only delivers on cleaning performance but also brings a touch of aromatherapy to the kitchen, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both efficacy and a pleasant fragrance in their cleaning products.

Sigma Spa Express Brush Cleaning Mat: The Sigma Spa Express Brush Cleaning Mat is a game-changer for makeup enthusiasts seeking an efficient and thorough way to clean their brushes. This compact and innovative mat features a variety of textures and patterns designed to deep clean both eye and face brushes. The suction cups on the back secure the mat to your sink, providing a stable surface for brush cleaning. The different sections on the mat cater to various brush sizes and types, ensuring a comprehensive cleanse. The Sigma Spa Express Brush Cleaning Mat streamlines the cleaning process, making it a must-have tool for maintaining the hygiene and longevity of your favorite makeup brushes.

HOW TO STORE MAKEUP BRUSHES

Your cherished brushes are impeccably clean and completely dry! Now, ensuring their longevity involves proper storage practices. To maintain the optimal condition of your top-tier makeup brushes, it’s crucial to provide them with adequate space, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup. Reserve the makeup bag for travel purposes, and instead, favor a jar or drawer organizer for everyday storage. Storing brushes upright in a brush bouquet or neatly tucking them into a designated drawer compartment minimizes exposure to unwanted dust. 

For those on the move, a brush roll is an excellent choice, offering seamless storage to keep both your brushes and, by extension, your skin and makeup, looking their absolute best.

CAN YOU USE RUBBING ALCOHOL TO CLEAN MY MAKEUP BRUSHES?

While some people may consider using rubbing alcohol to clean makeup brushes due to its disinfectant properties, it’s generally not recommended by beauty experts. Rubbing alcohol can be too harsh on the bristles of the brushes, especially those made of natural fibers or synthetic materials.

Rubbing alcohol has a drying effect, and continuous use may lead to bristle damage, making the brushes coarse and prone to shedding. Additionally, it may compromise the glue that holds the bristles together, causing the brush to lose its shape over time.

Beauty experts often suggest using gentler alternatives like mild shampoos, baby shampoo, or specially formulated brush cleansers. These products effectively remove makeup residues, oils, and bacteria without causing harm to the brush bristles.

It’s essential to prioritize the longevity and quality of your makeup brushes by choosing cleaning solutions that are gentle and suitable for the specific materials used in your brushes. Regular cleaning with the right products helps maintain the hygiene of your brushes and ensures optimal makeup application.

When should you throw away a makeup brush?”

Knowing when it’s time to part ways with a makeup brush is crucial for maintaining both effective application and the health of your skin. Signs that indicate it’s time to replace a makeup brush include frayed or splayed bristles that no longer maintain their original shape. If the bristles start shedding excessively or if the brush no longer feels soft and smooth against the skin, it’s a clear indication that its performance is compromised.

Additionally, if the brush has become discolored despite regular cleaning or if there is an unpleasant odor, it may be harboring bacteria that could lead to skin issues. When any of these signs become apparent, it’s advisable to invest in a new brush to ensure a hygienic and flawless makeup application. 

Regularly inspecting your brushes and being attentive to changes in their condition will contribute to a more effective and enjoyable makeup routine.

FAQ

1. What kind of soap do you use to clean makeup brushes?

To clean makeup brushes, it’s recommended to use a mild and gentle soap such as baby shampoo, a sulfate-free shampoo, or a specialized brush cleanser. 

2. Can I use my cleanser to wash my makeup brushes?

It’s generally not advisable to use your facial cleanser for makeup brushes, as facial cleansers may not effectively break down makeup residues.

3. Can I use micellar water to clean brushes?

While micellar water can remove some makeup from brushes, it may not be as effective at breaking down oily residues, and continuous use might not thoroughly clean the brushes. 

CONCLUSION

Maintaining clean makeup brushes is an essential aspect of a healthy skincare and beauty routine. By incorporating this practice into your beauty regimen, ideally on a weekly basis, you ensure that your makeup application remains flawless, hygienic, and a positive contribution to the overall health of your skin. Regular attention to your brushes underscores a commitment to both effective cosmetics use and the well-being of your skin, allowing you to confidently express your unique style.