should i wash or exfoliate first

14 BEST DRUGSTORE FACE WASHES THAT ACTUALLY WORK

Keeping your face clean is a key part of any skincare routine, but with so many face washes on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Especially if you’re on a budget! Drugstore face washes offer a fantastic selection of cleansers that can be just as effective, if not more so, than pricier options. Here’s a guide to the 14 best drugstore face washes that will leave your skin feeling fresh, clean and happy without breaking the bank! We’ll cover cleansers for all different skin types, from acne-prone to dry and sensitive, so you can find the perfect one for your unique needs.

OUR TOP PICKS

CETAPHIL PRO FOAMING FACE WASH

Cetaphil Pro Foaming Face Wash is a great option for those with oily, acne-prone skin. This cleanser utilizes Zinc Technology to target excess oil and shine, while also calming and soothing irritation. The gentle foaming texture removes pore-clogging impurities and oil without over-drying, making it suitable for sensitive skin as well. This pH-balanced formula is clinically proven to remove 99% of excess oil, leaving your skin clean and refreshed.

CERAVE HYDRATING FACIAL CLEANSER

Ideal for normal to dry skin, CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser that removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. This dermatologist-developed face wash is formulated with three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE technology. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier, hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, and MVE technology ensures a controlled, long-lasting release of hydrating ingredients throughout the day. This combination keeps your skin clean, comfortable, and hydrated, even after cleansing.

OLAY REGENERIST REGENERATING CREAM CLEANSER

Olay Regenerist Regenerating Cream Cleanser caters to those looking for a cleanser that combines deep cleansing with anti-aging benefits. This creamy formula is designed to wash away dirt, makeup, and impurities while gently exfoliating to accelerate skin’s natural surface regeneration. The inclusion of advanced anti-aging ingredients aims to smooth skin texture and promote a more youthful appearance. However, it’s important to note that cleansers are typically left on the face for a short time, so the anti-aging benefits may be subtle. Regardless, this cleanser is a good option for those with normal, dry, or combination skin seeking a clean and refreshed feel with a touch of anti-aging support.

THE ORDINARY SQUALANE CLEANSER

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a gentle, two-in-one cleanser designed for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This fragrance-free formula uses squalane, a plant-derived oil that mimics natural skin oils, to effectively dissolve makeup and remove dirt and impurities without stripping away moisture. Squalane also helps to replenish the skin’s barrier, leaving it feeling soft and supple. The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula (meaning it won’t clog pores) makes it a great choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin as well.

NEUTROGENA STUBBORN TEXTURE ACNE CLEANSER

Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Acne Cleanser tackles both acne breakouts and uneven skin texture in one go. This dermatologist-grade cleanser combines a powerful trio of acids to achieve clear and smooth skin. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), penetrates pores to clear existing acne and prevent new blemishes. Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), helps loosen and shed dead skin cells on the surface, promoting a smoother texture. Finally, polyhydroxy acid (PHA) gently exfoliates to minimize the appearance of pores and improve overall skin texture. This fragrance-free cleanser is suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, although those with sensitive skin may want to patch test first due to the exfoliating ingredients.

E.L.F COSMETICS HOLY HYDRATION! DAILY CLEANSER

E.l.f. Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser is a budget-friendly option that caters to those with normal, dry, or combination skin. This gel-based cleanser transforms into a soft lather that removes excess oil, impurities, and even light makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The key ingredients here are hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant, attracts and retains moisture, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and plump. Ceramides, on the other hand, help strengthen and repair the skin’s natural barrier, preventing dehydration and irritation. This fragrance-free cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use and leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and comfortably hydrated.

DOVE BEAUTY BAR

Dove Beauty Bar is a classic choice for a reason! This gentle bar soap is formulated with ΒΌ moisturizing cream, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth after cleansing. Unlike traditional bar soaps that can be stripping, Dove’s unique formula effectively washes away dirt and oil without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture balance. This makes it a great choice for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Dove Beauty Bar is also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, minimizing the risk of irritation. It’s an affordable and effective option for those looking for a simple, no-frills cleanser for both face and body.

WELEDA SKIN FOOD FACE CARE NOURISHING OIL-TO-MILK CLEANSER

Weleda Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Oil-to-Milk Cleanser is a gentle cleanser ideal for normal, dry, and even sensitive skin types. This unique formula starts as a comforting oil that transforms into a milky lather upon contact with water. Sunflower seed oil, rich in nutrients, cleanses the skin while maintaining its natural moisture balance. Soothing calendula and wild pansy extract help calm and reduce irritation. This cleanser effectively removes makeup, dirt, and impurities without leaving your skin feeling stripped or dry. Weleda’s focus on natural and botanical ingredients makes it a good choice for those seeking a gentle and effective cleanser that nourishes the skin.

CETAPHIL GENTLE CLEAR CLEANSER

Cetaphil Gentle Clear Cleanser is a great drugstore option for those struggling with acne-prone or sensitive skin. This fragrance-free, cream-to-lather cleanser tackles blemishes with salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to clear existing breakouts and prevent new ones. Unlike some acne cleansers that can be harsh, Cetaphil’s gentle formula is non-irritating and suitable for even sensitive skin. Soothing ingredients like aloe vera and white tea extract help calm and reduce inflammation, while still providing effective cleansing power. This cleanser is a good choice if you’re looking for a solution to clear up acne without irritating your skin.

NEUTROGENA OIL-FREE ACNE FIGHTING FACIAL CLEANSER WITH SALICYLIC ACID

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Facial Cleanser with Salicylic Acid is a dermatologist-recommended cleanser designed to combat acne and prevent future breakouts. This fragrance-free formula contains 2% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into pores to unclog them and clear out existing blemishes. The oil-free formula helps control excess oil production, a common culprit in acne formation. Neutrogena’s MicroClear technology helps deliver the salicylic acid directly to the source of the breakout, maximizing its effectiveness. This cleanser gently cleanses without over-drying, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. If you have sensitive skin, it’s recommended to patch test first due to the exfoliating properties of the salicylic acid.

AVEENO CALM + RESTORE REDNESS RELIEF FOAMING CLEANSER

Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser is a gentle option designed for those with sensitive skin prone to redness. This fragrance-free cleanser utilizes feverfew, a botanical extract known for its calming properties, to soothe irritation and reduce the appearance of redness. The foaming formula gently removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping away moisture, leaving your skin feeling clean, comfortable, and less irritated. This cleanser is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it suitable for those with acne-prone skin as well. If you’re looking for a gentle cleanser that effectively cleanses and calms sensitive, redness-prone skin, Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser is a great drugstore option to consider.

LA ROCHE-POSAY TOLERIANE PURIFYING FOAMING CLEANSER

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a fragrance-free cleanser designed for normal to oily, sensitive skin. This gentle cleanser utilizes micellar technology to effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water, known for its soothing and antioxidant properties, helps calm irritation and reduce redness. This cleanser also contains mattifying ingredients to control excess oil production, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and shine-free. Suitable for everyday use, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a great choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective cleanser for sensitive, oily skin.

VANICREAM GENTLE FACIAL CLEANSER

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free and soap-free cleanser ideal for sensitive skin. This dermatologist-recommended formula is free of common irritants like dyes, parabens, and sulfates, making it suitable for even the most delicate skin. The gentle cleanser effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser utilizes ceramides, which help maintain healthy skin hydration and strengthen the skin’s barrier function. This fragrance-free cleanser is non-comedogenic and rinses clean without leaving residue, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin types.

LA ROCHE-POSAY LIPIKAR WASH AP+

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser specifically formulated for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. This dermatologist-tested cleanser utilizes a unique, syndet formula that combines the cleansing properties of soap with the moisturizing benefits of a cream. It gently cleanses the skin without stripping away natural oils, leaving it feeling soft, comfortable, and hydrated.

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is enriched with several key ingredients to soothe and protect irritated skin. Aqua Posae Filiformis, a prebiotic thermal water sourced by the brand, helps balance the skin’s microbiome and strengthen its natural barrier. Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, calms inflammation and reduces redness. Glycerin, a humectant ingredient, attracts and retains moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and comfortable. This gentle cleanser is suitable for the whole family, from infants and children to adults, making it a great choice for those seeking a calming and moisturizing cleanser for sensitive skin.

WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A FACE WASH?

When selecting a drugstore face wash, it’s essential to consider your skin type and choose a formula that complements it effectively. For sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free options, while individuals with dry skin may benefit from hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Creams, oils, or balms are recommended for dry skin, whereas gel or foams are ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.

While you can look for active ingredients in face washes, simplicity is often key. Dermatologists suggest gentle cleansers free of sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, or fragrance to prevent irritation. Dr. Martha H. Viera, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, emphasizes the importance of choosing gentle and non-irritating formulations for effective skincare.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR FACE?

Dermatologists advise washing your face once or twice daily for optimal skincare. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick emphasizes the importance of cleansing the face at the end of the day to eliminate accumulated dirt, debris, excess oil, and makeup. While washing your face in the morning is acceptable, individuals with sensitive or dry skin may opt for a single cleanse in the evening for gentle skincare maintenance.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it, our top picks for the 14 best drugstore face washes that deliver real results! With cleansers for all skin types and concerns, from acne-fighting formulas to hydrating options for dry skin, there’s a perfect drugstore cleanser out there for everyone. Remember, the key to a healthy complexion is consistency, so find a cleanser that works well for you and incorporate it into your daily routine for clean, clear, and beautiful skin!

Clearing Your Face 9 Best Benzoyl Peroxide Face Washes

Many people’s enemy is stubborn acne, yet few skincare products live up to their claims of being pimple-fighting superheroes. However, benzoyl peroxide is a tried-and-true, clinically validated chemical for treating current breakouts and avoiding new ones. So, if your skin needs a boost in the acne-fighting department, adding a benzoyl peroxide face wash to your routine will help get rid of any bothersome pimples that are holding out for too long. 

What is Benzoyl Peroxide and Its Benefits

Bactericidal refers to the property of benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria. The kind of bacteria that contributes to the development of acne is called Propionibacterium acnes. This acne-causing bacterium is efficiently eliminated by benzoyl peroxide, which is sold over-the-counter in a variety of formulations.

Any type of acne can be treated with benzoyl peroxide topical acne therapy, but acne vulgaris, which is an inflammatory form of acne, responds best to it. It can also be used to treat whiteheads, blackheads, and cystic acne, however, this kind of acne requires a combination of drugs. Because it eliminates the bacteria inside and beneath the breakout that is generating the irritation, benzoyl peroxide works best on inflammatory acne. Inflammatory acne signs include: 

  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Clogged, pus-filled pores. 
  • Oily acne spots

Start off gradually while using benzoyl peroxide to treat acne. To gradually introduce the product to your skin and prevent an adverse reaction, only use it once every other day. You will become more sensitive to the sun as a result of the product, so follow up with sunscreen.

Top 9 Benzoyl Peroxide Face Washes

EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser

An enzyme and amino acid combination found in EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser can aid in removing makeup and other pollutants, including oil on the face and pore-clogging makeup. The foam reduces pore size while gently removing pollutants from the skin and enhancing skin clarity. Your skin feels balanced and clean after using this dermatologist-recommended cleanser.

Differin Daily Deep Cleanser

This formulation contains 5% benzoyl peroxide that has been micronized in order to get deep into pores, destroy bacteria, and absorb extra oil. However, it simultaneously delivers a mild moisturizer designed to assist in balancing your skin and stop unwelcome dryness on oily skin. Reviewers frequently mention how nicely it has cleared up their skin, and the reasonably priced pricing is also a plus. However, if you have dry skin, you should think twice before purchasing it because it could feel a touch of drying on dry skin.

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash

10% benzoyl peroxide is used in the foamy face wash Panoxyl Maximum Strength Acne. When it comes to treating body acne on regions like your back, chest, and booty (because, yes, you can have acne on your butt), this cleanser is a lifesaver. You may thank the foaming action for making it simple to apply to all of these larger surfaces. It contains 10% BPO, which may be a little too much for certain people’s faces but is typically tolerated well by the body. This might not be the product for you if you prefer items with a denser texture.

CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser

When using any kind of strong skincare product, like BPO, it’s crucial to exercise caution if your complexion tends toward sensitivity. We value this composition because it was created especially to be extremely mild on the skin. Yes, it contains benzoyl peroxide, which treats acne, but it also features moisturizing hyaluronic acid and calming niacinamide. It is creamy but quickly turns into foam, giving you the delightful lather and clean feeling that many other cleansers designed for sensitive skin lack.

Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask

A skincare item called the Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask has two uses: it can be used as a cleanser and a mask. By thoroughly cleaning pores and removing excess oil and pollutants from the skin, it is intended to help treat and prevent acne. The product works to remove grime, oil, and makeup from the skin’s surface when used as a cleanser. It contains benzoyl peroxide, a substance frequently seen in acne treatments. The product offers a more thorough treatment for skin that is prone to acne when used as a mask. It can be used on the face and kept on for a short period of time before being rinsed off. The aromas in this cleanser, however, can irritate those with sensitive noses.

Ever Ready First Aid Harris Benzoyl Peroxide Wash

You can try Harris Pharmaceuticals’ benzoyl peroxide face cleanser if that’s what you want. By eliminating the germs that cause acne and drying and peeling the affected region, it clears your skin. The 5% benzoyl peroxide in the 5 oz. white bottle is best used topically. In addition to your face, you can use this cream on your back if you have acne there from over-sweating, especially in the summer. To get the outcomes you want from it, you must continuously use it.

PCA SKIN Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Facial Cleanser

PCA Skin’s daily foamy face cleanser is fantastic for oily skin types. This facial cleanser with 5% benzoyl peroxide has a miraculous ingredient that makes acne and scars vanish as if they never existed. Your skin will be moisturized and clean, giving off a flawless radiance. Additionally, the mixture contains phytic acid, which exfoliates pores and shows your genuine skin, as well as gluconolactone, which hydrates skin and improves complexion. Despite the fact that it might be somewhat pricey, it is a fantastic skincare expert and merits your attention.

iS CLINICAL Cleansing Complex

Bio-nutrients, antioxidants, and exfoliating substances are used in the formulation of the iS CLINICAL Cleansing Complex. Salicylic acid, which aids in pore cleansing and exfoliation, as well as chamomile extract, which calms and soothes the skin, are among its constituents. This cleanser has a reputation for being able to remove makeup, excess oil, and pollutants without drying out the skin. It can be used as part of your morning and nighttime skincare routine. This cleanser can be a touch costly when compared to the majority of alternatives on the market.

AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser

Both body and facial acne can be treated with the AcneFree Oil-Free Acne Cleanser. Breakouts such as pimples, cystic acne, blackheads, and whiteheads are cleared up and avoided using it. The cleanser’s micronized benzoyl peroxide deep cleans and eliminates acne-causing germs by penetrating the pores. Both the day and the night can be employed with it. Ceramide, another ingredient in the cleanser, preserves the skin’s natural moisture barrier. On dry skin, this cleanser might be very effective.

You may be familiar with a substance called benzoyl peroxide if you’ve ever had the pleasure of dealing with acne. It is the star of some of the best lotions, cleansers, and spot treatments since it is essentially a superhero that fights acne. You’ll get smooth, clear skin like your favorite “It girl” if you use one of these 9 incredible benzoyl peroxide face washes.