There’s no denying that most everyone knows cleansing the skin twice per day to help remove pore-clogging dirt, oil, impurities and pollution is incredibly important for skin health. The real struggle however, is picking the right formula to get the job done. After all, there’s no shortage of face washes out there that cater to a wide range of skin types, concerns and needs — and that’s not even accounting for the different textures like gel, foam, cream and liquid.
If you need help finding the best cleanser for your skin type, take our quiz below.
Best Cleanser for Your Skin
How would you describe your skin?
A. Dry all over
B. Some dry spots, some oily spots
C. Oily
D. Sensitive
What’s your top skin concern?
A. Dry skin and dullness
B. Enlarged pores
C. Frequent irritation
D. Excess shine
What is your biggest skincare goal?
A. Hydrated skin
B. Pores that are barely visible
C. Getting oil and excess shine under control
D. Skin that doesn’t turn red or burn after product use
If You Answered…Mostly As
Try the Garnier Green Labs Amino-Berry Soft Skin Soothing Cream Cleanser! Here’s Why:
If dryness and flakes are among your biggest skin concerns year-round, chances are you have dry skin. A hydrating cleanser can serve your skin well, as the right formula can remove impurities, makeup and SPF while hydrating the skin at the same time. Scan the label for ingredients like amino acids and superfoods, which are known to nourish the skin and retain it’s natural moisture.
- Good for: Dry skin
- Texture: Cream
If You Answered…Mostly Bs
Try the SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel! Here’s Why:
There are two types of exfoliating cleansers — those that are formulated with chemical exfoliants like glycolic and salicylic acid, and those that are formulated with physical exfoliants like salt or sugar. Thanks to their ability to remove dead skin cells, exfoliating cleansers are a great pick for those looking to reveal brighter and more polished-looking skin. Many can also help decongest pores and minimize their appearance.
- Good for: Combination skin
- Texture: Gel
If You Answered…Mostly Cs
Try the CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser! Here’s why:
Dealing with excess surface oil? Reach for an oil-free cleanser that’s formulated with acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide. It removes excess oil from your skin’s surface and deep in your pores to help stop breakouts from forming. Thanks to hydrating ceramides in the formula, it’s not over-drying and won’t strip the skin of all of its moisture.
- Good for: Oily skin
- Texture: Cream
If You Answered…Mostly Ds
Try the Vichy Pureté Thermale 3-In-1 Micellar Water! Here’s Why:
Safe for all skin types — even sensitive — micellar water can gently and effectively remove makeup, dirt, oil and impurities on the skin’s surface while soothing any irritation. However unlike other cleansers, most micellar waters don’t require rinsing afterwards. Simply soak a cotton pad in the solution and sweep it across your face for clean, refreshed skin.
- Good for: Sensitive skin
- Texture: Micellar water
Photo: Chaunte Vaughn
Read More:
Quiz: What Serum Should You Use for Your Skin Concerns?
How to Cleanse Your Skin According to Your Skin Type
This Is the Right Way to Double Cleanse Oily Skin