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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!

NAIL CARE TIPS: DO’S AND DON’TS FOR HEALTHY NAILS

Have you ever dream of having strong, beautiful nails that turn heads? It’s achievable! But achieving healthy nails goes beyond just a fancy polish. Daily habits and proper care are key. In this guide, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of nail care, providing you with the knowledge you need to transform your nails from fragile to fabulous. Get ready to ditch the bad habits and embrace practices that will promote healthy nail growth and keep your tips in tip-top shape!

HEALTHY NAILS: KNOWING THE SIGNS OF STRENGTH AND WHEN TO SEEK HELP

Your fingernails, made of layers of keratin protein, grow from the base under your cuticle. Healthy nails are smooth, uniform in color, and free of spots. Vertical ridges are sometimes harmless and more noticeable with age. White lines or spots from injury grow out with the nail.

However, not all nail conditions are normal. Seek medical advice if you notice:

  • Changes in nail color or a dark streak under the nail
  • Changes in nail shape like curling
  • Nails becoming thinner or thicker
  • Nail separating from surrounding skin
  • Bleeding, swelling, or pain around the nails
  • Nails failing to grow

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTHY NAILS

PRACTICE GOOD NAIL HYGIENE

Proper trimming is a key part of nail hygiene. Use sharp manicure scissors or clippers for this purpose. It’s best to trim your nails straight across and then gently round the tips in a curve. This will help prevent nail damage and maintain the strength of your nails.

KEEP YOUR FINGERNAILS DRY AND CLEAN

It’s crucial to prevent bacteria from growing under your fingernails, and keeping your nails dry and clean is the first step. Constant or prolonged exposure to water can lead to split fingernails. Therefore, it’s wise to wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when doing activities that involve water or harsh chemicals, such as washing dishes or cleaning.

USE MOISTURIZER

Just like your skin, your nails and cuticles also need hydration. Whenever you apply hand lotion, make sure to massage it into your fingernails and cuticles as well. This will keep them moisturized and healthy.

APPLY A PROTECTIVE LAYER

Using a nail hardener can provide an extra layer of protection for your nails. It can help strengthen your nails and prevent them from getting chipped or damaged.

CONSIDER BIOTIN SUPPLEMENTS

Biotin is a nutritional supplement that is known to enhance the health of your hair and nails. Some studies suggest that it can help strengthen weak or brittle fingernails. However, it’s advised to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

WHAT SHOULDN’T YOU DO WHEN CARING FOR YOUR NAILS?

Taking care of your nails is an essential part of personal hygiene. Here are some in-depth tips to avoid common problems:

DON’T BITE YOUR FINGERNAILS OR PICK AT YOUR CUTICLES

These actions may seem harmless, but they can cause significant harm to your nails. Engaging in these actions can damage the nail bed, which is the protective layer beneath your nails. Even a small cut on your finger can create an opportunity for bacteria or fungi to enter, leading to potential infections.

LIMIT THE USE OF HARSH NAIL CARE PRODUCTS

Certain nail care products can be damaging to your nails. For instance, frequent use of nail polish remover can dry out and weaken your nails. When you do need to use nail polish remover, opt for a formula that doesn’t contain acetone, as this ingredient can be particularly harsh on your nails.

DON’T IGNORE PERSISTENT NAIL PROBLEMS

If you notice a nail issue that doesn’t improve over time, or if it’s associated with other symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Schedule an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan.

AVOID PULLING OFF HANGNAILS

Hangnails can be irritating, but yanking them off isn’t the solution. When you tear off a hangnail, you risk ripping live tissue along with it, which can lead to pain and potential infections. Instead of pulling, use a clipper to carefully trim the hangnails.

A NOTE ABOUT MANICURES AND PEDICURES

Manicures and pedicures can be a great way to pamper yourself and keep your nails looking their best. However, it’s essential to approach these treatments with caution to maintain the health of your nails and skin.

Firstly, always ensure that the salon you visit follows strict sanitation practices. The tools used should be sterilized between customers to prevent the spread of infections. Inquire about their cleaning procedures to ensure your safety.

Secondly, ask your nail technician to be gentle with your cuticles. Cuticles serve as a protective barrier for your nails, and pushing them back too far or cutting them can lead to nail infections.

Thirdly, while gel and acrylic nails can look fantastic, they can also be harsh on your natural nails, leading to weakening and breakage. The UV light used to cure the gel polish can also be harmful to your skin, so it’s recommended to apply sunscreen on your hands before getting a gel manicure.

Lastly, if you notice any changes in your nails or skin after getting a manicure or pedicure, such as redness, swelling, or pain, it is important to seek medical attention. These could be signs of an infection or allergic reaction.

Remember, it’s always okay to voice any concerns or preferences you have during your appointment. After all, the goal is not just beautiful nails, but healthy ones as well.

FAQ

1. Do I need to trim my nails?

Yes, regularly trimming your nails with sharp clippers or scissors helps prevent breakage and keeps them neat.

2. How should I trim my nails?

Trim your nails straight across and then gently file the edges into a rounded shape. Avoid cutting into the corners, which can lead to ingrown nails.

3. Should I push back my cuticles?

Gently pushing back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher is fine, but don’t cut them. Cuticles help protect your nails from infection.

4. What foods help my nails grow strong?

A balanced diet rich in protein, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins B and iron can contribute to healthy nails.

5. Why are my toenails yellow?

Yellow toenails might be caused by a fungal infection or from using nail polish too much without letting your nails breathe.

CONCLUSION 

By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can keep your nails healthy, strong, and looking their best. Remember, healthy nails are not just about beauty; they can also be an indicator of your overall health. So, take care of your nails, and they’ll take care of you!