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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

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.

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!

THE 15 BEST-SMELLING SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONERS  

Ahh… fragranced hair. There’s something about a delightful shampoo and conditioner that can instantly elevate your shower routine and leave you feeling refreshed and luxurious. Beyond the cleansing and conditioning properties, these products can transform your shower into a sensory experience. Whether you crave a light and floral scent or a more deep and mysterious aroma, there’s a perfect fragrant shampoo and conditioner out there for you. Here’s a curated list to tantalize your olfactory senses!

OUAI THICK HAIR SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Whether OUAI Thick Hair Shampoo and Conditioner has the absolute best scent depends on what you like. However, these products are known for having a pleasant and luxurious fragrance. They are scented with something called “Mercer Street” which is described as a rosey scent. Along with the rose, there are hints of citrus, jasmine, and white musk. So, if you enjoy floral scents with a bit of freshness and musk, then OUAI Thick Hair Shampoo and Conditioner might be the perfect smelling hair care for you.

SOL DE JANEIRO BRAZILIAN JOIA SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER SET

If you’re looking for a strengthening shampoo and conditioner that also smells amazing, then the SOL DE JANEIRO Brazilian Joia Shampoo and Conditioner Set might be a good fit for you. This set is known for its signature Cheirosa 62 fragrance. Imagine a tropical vacation on the beaches of Brazil! Cheirosa 62 is described as a warm and inviting scent with hints of pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla. Besides smelling great, this shampoo and conditioner promises to cleanse your hair, add moisture without weighing it down, and even help mend split ends and prevent future damage.

AMIKA NORMCORE SIGNATURE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Amika Normcore Signature Shampoo and Conditioner is a sulfate-free option that cleanses your hair without being harsh. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, which are known to be good for your hair’s health. This shampoo and conditioner combo aims to leave your hair feeling soft, shiny, and bouncy.  While there isn’t a specific scent mentioned for this product line, it’s known for having a clean and refreshing fragrance, so it’s a good choice if you prefer a subtle scent in your hair products.

BRIOGEO BANANA + COCONUT NOURISHING SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER

Craving a scent that matches the moisture boost your dry hair needs? BRIOGEO Banana + Coconut Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner might be your sweet escape! This combo is packed with banana and coconut oil to quench your hair’s thirst, and the best part? It smells exactly like it sounds – a tropical dream of sweet bananas and creamy coconut. For those with dry, slightly curly hair, don’t forget to check out Briogeo Curl Charisma, a top pick for best shampoo for wavy hair.

BUMBLE & BUMBLE THICKENING VOLUME SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER 

While Bumble and Bumble Thickening Volume Shampoo and Conditioner are known for adding volume to thin hair, the scent might not be the most distinctive. Many reviewers describe it as a clean, light fragrance that isn’t overpowering. This can be a good thing if you prefer a subtle scent in your hair products or have a sensitive nose. However, if you’re looking for a super strong fragrance, this might not be the best choice.

VERB HYDRATING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Ditch dry hair and hello shine! This argan oil shampoo and conditioner combo is like a sip of magic for your tresses. It leaves your hair feeling soft, nourished, and looking healthy, regardless of hair type. Packed with argan oil and pro-vitamin B5, it’s a one-two punch for strong, beautiful hair. Plus, even though the brand doesn’t advertise a special scent, users can’t stop raving about how amazing it smells – that’s a bonus you won’t find on the label!

POMELO + CO. VANILLA DREAM SHAMPOO & VANILLA CREAM CONDITIONER

Craving a sweet treat for your hair? Look no further than POMELO + CO. Vanilla Dream Shampoo & Vanilla Cream Conditioner. This duo is designed to be a dream come true for both your hair and your senses. The shampoo promises to gently cleanse your hair, leaving it shiny and soft. The conditioner adds moisture to keep your hair manageable. But the real star of the show is the scent! As the names suggest, both the shampoo and conditioner are infused with a delicious vanilla fragrance. Imagine yourself surrounded by warm, comforting vanilla vibes every time you wash your hair!

PACIFICA BEAUTY PINEAPPLE CURLS CURL DEFINING SHAMPOO

If you’re rocking gorgeous curls and want to define them without sacrificing a delightful scent, then Pacifica Beauty’s Pineapple Curls Curl Defining Shampoo is a strong contender. This shampoo is a curl-loving formula that cleanses gently, so your hair won’t be weighed down – a big no-no for bouncy curls! Packed with goodies like pineapple extract, argan oil, and quinoa, it helps fight frizz and defines your natural curl pattern. The result? Bouncy, beautiful, perfectly shaped curls! And the best part? It smells like a delicious pineapple vacation, making every hair wash a tropical escape for your senses.

SALTAIR BEACH BLONDE PURPLE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Ditch the brass and achieve the ultimate beach blonde look with this affordable shampoo and conditioner combo! Here’s the good stuff: the special ultraviolet pigments and orchid flower extract work together to neutralize those unwanted brassy tones, keeping your blonde hair cool and ashy, just like a beach vacation. The kukui nut oil adds another layer of brass-busting power. But that’s not all! This formula also includes shea butter to keep your blonde locks nourished and healthy. The cherry on top? An amazing light floral scent that combines orange flower, pink jasmine, and fresh plum for a delightful experience every time you wash your hair.

AVEDA BOTANICAL REPAIR STRENGTHENING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Shampoo & Conditioner is a great choice if you’re looking to repair damaged hair and enjoy a pleasant scent during your hair washing routine. This combo is designed to be tough on damage, but gentle on your hair. It uses plant-derived ingredients to strengthen weak strands and mend split ends. While the exact scent isn’t described, Aveda products are known for their natural, aromatherapy-like fragrances. This shampoo and conditioner are likely to have a calming and pleasant scent, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle experience compared to strong perfumes.

COCO & EVE SUPER HYDRATING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER SET

Craving seriously hydrated hair? Look no further than the COCO & EVE Super Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner Set! This tropical duo is designed to quench your hair’s thirst, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and manageable. Packed with coconut and fig, these ingredients work together to deeply moisturize your hair without weighing it down. But that’s not all! This shampoo and conditioner are known for their incredible island-inspired scent. Imagine yourself relaxing on a beach vacation every time you wash your hair – the perfect way to beat those dry hair blues!

EDEN BODYWORKS PEPPERMINT TEA TREE SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Eden Bodyworks Peppermint Tea Tree Shampoo & Conditioner might not be the first choice if you’re seeking a super sweet or floral scented hair care routine. However, this clarifying combo packs a refreshing minty punch thanks to the peppermint and tea tree oil. This invigorating scent is perfect if you enjoy a clean, spa-like experience in the shower. Besides the scent, this shampoo and conditioner are known for their deep cleansing abilities. They work together to remove product buildup and clarify your scalp, leaving your hair feeling fresh and clean.

CLEAN LUXURY SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER DUO – UNIVERSELLE

Forget the labels! This luxurious shampoo and conditioner from Universelle is designed for all hair types, regardless of gender. The scent is where the magic happens – it’s described as “elevated” and something that will entice everyone to take a whiff (and maybe even ask for a second lather!). The cleanser itself is gentle enough for any hair type and protects your precious locks, whether they’re color-treated or bursting with natural keratin. The conditioner acts like a superhero for your hair, reviving tired and stressed strands. The best part? The scent unfolds like a beautiful story: it starts with sparkling top notes of mandarin orange and sea salt, then transitions to a romantic heart of rose petals, and finishes with a warm, musky dry down of amber. Sounds like a shower experience fit for royalty!

POTION STUDIO SATIN SILK SHAMPOO & CONFIDENT CROWN CONDITIONER

If you have textured hair and love a luxurious scent in your hair care routine, Potion Studio’s Satin Silk Shampoo and Confident Crown Conditioner might be your perfect match. This duo is designed to tame frizz and boost shine for all types of textured hair, leaving your mane looking healthy and manageable. But that’s not all! The real star of the show here might be the scent. While the exact fragrance isn’t described, the product names themselves give some clues: Satin Silk and Confident Crown. Imagine a scent that’s as smooth and luxurious as satin, and leaves you feeling confident and powerful – that’s the vibe you can expect from this shampoo and conditioner set.

DAILY SHAMPOO CALIFORNIA NATURALS

Sunshine and good hair days await with California Naturals Daily Shampoo! This shampoo and conditioner duo isn’t just about keeping your hair clean and healthy, it’s about transporting you straight to the California coast. Forget harsh chemicals, this shampoo uses a gentle Coconut Cleansing Complex™ to cleanse your hair, while the conditioner is packed with nourishing fruit butters to give you beach-worthy shine. And the best part? The scent! This shampoo and conditioner have a warm, inviting fragrance that combines woody notes, citrusy hints, and a touch of sweetness – the perfect way to bottle up the California dream in your shower routine. So cruise down memory lane (or create some new amazing hair memories) with every wash!

CONCLUSION

Choosing a shampoo and conditioner can feel overwhelming, but hopefully this exploration of fragrant options has helped narrow down your search! Remember, scent is a personal preference, so don’t be afraid to try a few different ones to find what makes your hair smell (and feel) amazing. Whether you crave a clean, refreshing scent, a luxurious floral fragrance, or a tropical escape, there’s a perfect shampoo and conditioner out there waiting for your hair! Happy washing!