17 best face washes

I gave up cleansing foams five years ago. And although they shouted from the TV screens: “Do you have oily skin? Enlarged pores? Rashes? All you need is to deeply and thoroughly cleanse your skin, and the problems will melt away like sebum under the influence of our “vigorous” foams!” I'm exaggerating this, of course. Although there is still some truth here. In this post, we’ll figure out why those with oily skin should pay special attention to the composition of cleansing foams, whether there are soft foams for makeup remover, and we’ll look at the compositions of the most popular foams, the names of which you wrote to me in the Greenwashing project.

How to choose a gel for washing

Even products for regular face washing need to be selected taking into account the type of epidermis. After all, insufficient cleansing of oily skin will provoke a scattering of clogged pores and inflammation, and drying anti-acne products will cause flaking and dehydration if used on dry dermis.

Pay attention to the presence of the following useful components in the composition of washing gels:

1. plant extracts;

2. oils;

Selection rules

Of course, when choosing washes, you need to know your skin type . If the skin is dehydrated and dry, it is better to use gels with moisturizing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, rather than foams.

Foams, as a rule, contain more substances that eliminate oily shine, so they are perfect for those with a problem T-zone. Also, be sure to read the ingredients before purchasing.

IMPORTANT! The content of harmful surfactants and mineral oil will not make your skin healthier, and will add problems in the form of rashes and peeling.

Another guideline when choosing is the desired effect. If you need a makeup remover, then choose hydrophilic oil, foam and toner. If you just want to wash your face twice a day, then a simple gel cleanser will do.

Let's look at the most famous paraben-free washing gels:

Face wash and face lotion for problem skin from Manhattan (Yolko)
Cleansing gel “FRESH SKIN” NEOBIO
Skineye ac pure wash peeling gel
Christina Moisturizing Facial Wash
Librederm Vitamin E Gentle cream-gel wash

This is just a small list of effective and safe washing gels.

Let's look at the most famous sulfate-free cleansing foams:

Spivak Cleansing foam for washing
Natura Siberica Foam-mousse for washing
La Roche Posay Effaclar Cleansing Foaming Facial Gel
Bioderma Hydrating Facial Cleansing Foam
Shise >Natural face washes

These products include organic gels and hypoallergenic foams , as well as natural soap and bio-cleaning. Biocleaning is a powder that must be moistened with water before use. Then you need to wash yourself thoroughly with this wet sand, rubbing it into the skin, rubbing very gently, but thoroughly. Then the paste is washed off with warm water.

Natural soap is suitable for cleaning oily facial skin. When lathering, it hardly foams, since it does not contain any chemical foaming agents, while it effectively fights dirt and grease. Anyone with sensitive skin should take a closer look at organic gels and hypoallergenic foams. Let's take a closer look at the best means.

Best gel

Wash gel Workshop Olesya Mustaeva Rose moisturizing with silk. This product gently and gently cleanses all skin types. It contains only natural ingredients, extracts, oils. Just read the ingredients: wheat protein, jojoba oil, hydrolyzed silk, camelina oil, phytosterol esters of Abyssinian mustard seed oil, fragrant honeysuckle extract, Japanese honeysuckle extract, green tea extract, linden flower extract, raspberry fruit extract, citric acid, rose essential oil, ylang-ylang essential oil. Of course, this product does not foam or lather like its chemical counterparts, but it cleans adequately and gives the skin the necessary supply of hydration .

The best gels for washing oily and problem skin

High-quality cleansing is the main step in caring for oily skin. Otherwise, it will look untidy due to enlarged pores, inflammation, comedones and oily sheen. Cleansers for problematic epidermis contain sebum-regulating and bactericidal components that fight imperfections and at the same time normalize sebum production.

Academie Derm Acte Acne (pH 5) – acid wash

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

89%

buyers recommend this product

This sebum-regulating gel transforms oily skin. The soft washing base carefully cleanses it of deep impurities without overdrying or causing peeling. The composition of the product is enriched with oleanolic and NDGA acids, which even out skin texture, tighten pores and eliminate post-acne.

With regular use of Acte Acne, the activity of the sebaceous glands is normalized, the number of rashes is reduced, and the T-zone becomes matte. The neutral formula does not disturb the natural pH balance of the epidermis, so you can use this wash without fear.

Advantages:

Moderate foaming;
Deep cleansing effect;
Reduces sebum production;
Evens out skin texture;
Fights acne and post-acne;
Does not dry out the skin.

Flaws:

Price 3000 rubles.

Gel from Academie Derm will improve the condition of very oily and porous skin with a lot of acne and scars left behind.

Levrana “Matifying” – a powerful blow to oily shine and pimples

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

A natural remedy for improving the condition of oily and problematic skin has a thick, opaque texture. The product contains: blue clay, essential oils, as well as plant extracts of raspberry, rosemary and bergamot.

This combination gives an intense complex effect: sebum-regulating, adsorbing, anti-inflammatory, astringent and bactericidal. The product does not dry out the epidermis and effectively fights acne, oily sheen and blackheads.

Advantages:

Natural composition;
Soft foaming base;
Eliminates inflammation and blackheads;
Mattifies the skin;
Doesn't dry out.

Flaws:

Doesn't foam well.

Levrana mattifying gel is recommended for daily cleansing of very oily and problematic skin. To avoid allergic reactions, do not use this product to care for sensitive epidermis.

Librederm Seracin – anti-acne

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Cleansing gel for oily skin with acne is rich in sebum-regulating and antibacterial components. The combination of sulfur and zinc reduces the foaming of the cleanser, but effectively cleanses pores, dries out inflammation, evens out the tone and texture of the face.

Glycolic acid in the gel delicately removes dead skin cells and reduces the depth of post-acne scars. The product prevents the appearance of acne, and its unobtrusive aroma will not cause rejection among sensitive people.

Advantages:

Good composition;
Effectively cleanses the skin;
Eliminates acne and acne marks;
Does not dry the skin;
It costs only 200 rubles.

Flaws:

Low foaming.

Librederm Seratsin cleansing gel is suitable for morning and evening washing of problem skin in adolescence.

The best gels for washing normal skin

People with normal skin are enviable. She has no rashes or oily shine, and she looks healthy and well-groomed even without foundation. Cleansers for this type of epidermis are non-aggressive and contain moisturizing components aimed only at maintaining the beauty and youth of the face.

Anna Lotan Universal Cleansing Gel – hydrophilic oil and gel in one bottle

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

A hypoallergenic cleanser for normal to dry skin, it removes even stubborn makeup without causing dryness. A product with a gel texture combines the properties of hydrophilic oil and a standard wash. It effectively cleanses pores, evens out facial tone and eliminates comedones.

Urea, essential oils of lavender, rosemary, azulene and vitamin E fight irritations and rashes, moisturize and soften the skin, and also have an antioxidant effect. The product formula has a neutral pH level of 5.5.

Advantages:

Removes all types of makeup;
Carefully cares for the skin;
Cleanses pores;
Does not disturb the pH balance.

Flaws:

Costs about 1700 rubles.

Thanks to its delicate formula, Anna Lotan Cleansing Gel is suitable even for those with sensitive skin. But due to the high content of nutritional components, it is contraindicated for oily epidermis.

Uriage Water Cleansing Gel – gentle cleansing during the cold season

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

86%

buyers recommend this product

A transparent cleansing gel based on thermal water, ideal for normal skin care. Its liquid texture gives a moderate foam that delicately cleanses the face of impurities and residues of cosmetic products. Thanks to its neutral aroma, this gel is also suitable for people with a heightened sense of smell.

The product does not dry out the skin, eliminates redness and gives a feeling of cleanliness without the drying effect. The manufacturer even claims that Water Cleansing is capable of removing makeup. In practice, the product does not cope well with mascara and eyeliner, so it is better to use it in combination with makeup remover liquid.

Advantages:

Gently cleanses the skin;
Doesn't dry out;
Eliminates redness;
Fights inflammation;
Prevents skin dehydration.

Flaws:

Ineffective in removing makeup.

Uriage cleansing gel is recommended for winter care for those with normal to combination skin prone to sensitivity.

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The best gels for washing dry skin

For washing dry and aging skin, only soft products enriched with oils, soothing and softening ingredients are suitable. Too aggressive cleansing can only provoke even greater dryness, loss of elasticity and will inevitably lead to the appearance of wrinkles.

Avene TriXera Nutrition – nourishing care for sensitive dermis

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Universal gel for face and body restores dry and atopic skin. A product based on soft surfactants carefully removes impurities without irritating the epidermis. In addition, it contains a complex of natural lipids that neutralize the negative effects of tap water, and selectose, which eliminates irritation and redness.

This neutral restorative product is suitable even for sensitive and young skin. The mineral water formula with vegetable oils and vitamin E will nourish, moisturize and soften the epidermis, eliminating flaking and a feeling of tightness.

Advantages:

Versatility;
Rich composition;
Soft foaming base;
Skin restoration and care effect;
Available in bottles of different volumes (100 and 400 ml).

Flaws:

Hard to find on sale.

Avene TriXera Nutrition Gel is an excellent skin care product for atopic dermatitis, allergic reactions and during the recovery period after chemical peels.

Garnier “Flower Honey” – softening honey elixir

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

84%

buyers recommend this product

The new cleanser from Garnier pleases with its excellent quality and affordable price. The transparent thick texture has a pleasant floral-honey scent and moderately foams. The product gently cleanses the skin, removes makeup well, without causing dryness or tightness of the skin.

The gel is consumed sparingly and can be used at any time of the year. Its only drawback is its composition, which is far from natural. However, for a washable product this is not critical.

Advantages:

Economical consumption;
Does not dry out the skin;
Removes makeup;
Has a pleasant aroma;
Budget cost (about 150 rubles).

Flaws:

The composition is poor in natural substances.

“Flower honey” Garnier, despite the synthetic origin of many components, is well tolerated by sensitive, dry and mature skin. So if you're on a limited budget, it's worth a closer look.

14 Best Micellar Waters

The best universal washing gels (for all skin types)

The main task of universal cleansers is to remove impurities and even out skin tone. Such neutral products are best suited for caring for problem-free or dehydrated oily skin, for which aggressive cleansing is contraindicated.

Dr. Jart+ Dermaclear pH 5.5 – herbal cocktail

★★★★★

editorial assessment

94%

buyers recommend this product

A gel with a neutral pH level gently but effectively cleanses the skin of sebaceous secretions, dust and decorative cosmetics. Thanks to herbal surfactants, the product does not dry out the epidermis, but perfectly removes dirt from pores and reduces redness.

The composition of Dermaclear is simply a storehouse of useful phytoextracts and vegetable oils that improve skin condition. Olive, citrus, lavender, rose, jasmine oils, as well as rosemary, lime and sage extracts are responsible for its nutrition and restoration.

In addition, the gel formula is enriched with biohydrogen water and Dead Sea minerals, which have an antioxidant effect and protect the epidermis from destructive external influences.

Advantages:

Soft foaming base;
Rich herbal composition;
Does not dry out the skin;
Has a bactericidal and calming effect;
Effectively cleanses and removes makeup.

Flaws:

A small volume is 120 ml, and this costs 2000 rubles.

Gel foam Dr. Jart+ is suitable for daily cleansing of sensitive skin and can be used as a makeup remover. The product perfectly cares for dehydrated dermis with redness, rosacea, enlarged pores and inflammation.

Lumene Klassikko – mineral wash

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

This thick, clear gel forms a mild foam that removes sebum and makeup residue. Of course, the product will not cope with complete makeup removal, so you need to use it in combination with micellar water. The gel gently cleanses the skin without disturbing the pH balance, leaving only a feeling of cleanliness and freshness.

The absence of dryness and irritation after its use will be appreciated by those with sensitive and dermatitis-prone skin. The composition of the product is also attractive, including mineral water and cotton extract. Another advantage of the product is its affordable price.

Advantages:

Versatility;
Gently cleanses the face;
Does not tighten the skin;
Can be used for atopic dermatitis;
Costs 200 rubles.

Flaws:

Not suitable for complete makeup removal - only as an auxiliary product.

Lumene Klassikko can be used for dermatitis. It will also perform well as a regular washbasin during the cold season.

Le Petit Marseillais “Rose Freshness” - inexpensive gel with micelles

4.6

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

Budget micellar cleansing gel has a thick consistency and moderate foaming. The product with the fresh aroma of rose buds does an excellent job of removing makeup without drying out the skin.

Floral water in the gel tones and moisturizes the epidermis, and also improves complexion. But you shouldn’t expect intensive care or solutions to serious cosmetic problems from this product. But it is used very economically, which makes the purchase of Le Petit Marseillais even more profitable.

Advantages:

Thoroughly removes makeup;
Does not dry out the skin;
Economical consumption;
Pleasant aroma.
The price is about 150 rubles.

Flaws:

The formula is rather poor.

“Rose Freshness” is a good and inexpensive gel for daily washing. It is suitable for those who do not have serious problems with the dermis.

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Trends for 2022

When choosing the best cleanser, you should pay attention to fashion trends. Popular trends for 2022 include:

Organic

You need to understand that natural and organic cosmetics are radically different in composition. A natural product can be filled with various dyes, fragrances and other ingredients that cause allergies and dryness. To write “natural” on a product, it is enough to add 1-2 natural products to the composition (possibly in minimal quantities).

Organic cosmetics consist entirely of natural ingredients and do not use chemical technologies in their production. Such cosmetics must be labeled “COSMOS ORGANIC” or “COSMOS NATURAL”.

Korean cosmetics

Korean-made decorative and care products have become popular for a reason. Firstly, they are actively promoted on YouTube, and secondly, almost all products originating from Korea can boast of high quality.

It is worth noting that Korean products may not be suitable for women with very oily skin, since the cosmetics of this production are aimed at a fashionable trend in Asia - a dewy face. Asian women specifically try to give their face a “wet” effect, so manufacturers meet them and make products containing moisturizing and highlighting components.

Belarusian and Polish cosmetics

Lovers of inexpensive cosmetics believe that the best washing gels are made in Belarus or Poland. Surely, all the girls who follow fashion trends have noticed that cosmetics from these countries have become truly popular, even the most famous beauty bloggers recommend them to their subscribers.

Prices allow you to try different products and choose the ideal option, but in order not to buy everything, it is better to first look at reviews (with detailed descriptions and photos before and after use) or video tests.

Composition and fashion trends are not everything. Before purchasing a product, you should read the reviews on thematic websites. Choose a cleansing gel that has many good reviews from customers and cosmetologists. Look through the relevant tops, make your rating of the best washing gels based on skin type, financial capabilities and composition.

The best makeup remover gels

Multifunctional products not only cleanse the skin, but also dissolve decorative cosmetics, so they are not particularly delicate. It is recommended to use them only if you wear light daytime makeup without using long-lasting products.

La Colline Cellular Face& Eye No-Rinse Jelly – vegetable jelly

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

94%

buyers recommend this product

Thick, aromatic jelly for delicate removal of makeup from the face, eyes and lips does not contain surfactants. Because of this, the product does not foam, but effectively dissolves makeup and sebum, leaving behind only a feeling of freshness.

The gel contains extracts of plantain, wormwood, flax, cornflower and magnolia. The formula tones, soothes and softens the skin, and also evens out the complexion, restoring its natural radiance.

No-Rinse Jelly is a universal product with an unobtrusive scent that can be used every day by girls with any skin type.

Advantages:

Universal and safe composition;
Rich botanical formula;
Effectively removes makeup;
Carefully cares for the skin.

Flaws:

Very expensive - 5 thousand rubles.

La Colline cleansing jelly will appeal to women who prefer multifunctional care products.

Academie Gel Demaquillant Purifiant – high-quality makeup remover without the panda effect

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The cleansing gel of the French professional brand is suitable even for sensitive skin. The product does not contain SLS, but effectively removes dirt and makeup. It has a thick consistency and a subtle herbal aroma. But you shouldn’t expect abundant foaming from it.

But the composition of the gel will please you with the presence of natural ingredients. For example, this includes aloe vera extract and milk proteins, which moisturize, soothe and soften the skin. At the same time, they prevent the appearance of inflammation and peeling.

Advantages:

Wide spectrum of action;
Removes makeup quickly and cleanly;
Does not dry out the skin and makes it softer.

Flaws:

The product is professional and is sold only through salons.

Demaquillant Purifiant is suitable for women of all skin types. It will especially appeal to those who have long abandoned aggressive cleaning products.

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Harmful components of facial cleansers

Anionic surfactants

In the first place for everyone who uses face washes is surfactants - surfactants, these aggressive components can significantly damage your skin. But are all surfactants so dangerous?

After all, on almost every package of cleanser - foam, mousse or tonic - we see these three scary letters. In fact, only surfactants labeled “anionic” can cause harm to the skin; on the packaging they are usually indicated as “sulfates”. They are loved to be used in inexpensive cleansers.

Anionic surfactants are a product based on lipophilic and hydrophilic layers. When exposed, it sticks well to particles of fat, but draws out water equally well. Therefore, when cleansing, they also deprive the skin of necessary moisture. And not only moisture, but also a natural protective layer in the form of essential fats. Therefore, after such products, the skin becomes dehydrated, and the epidermis is not protected. Today there are enough products on the market that clean well without this harmful substance. The aggressiveness of its impact produces noticeable results, but they are more negative than positive.

Mineral oil

Contrary to the well-known statement that oil saturates the skin with moisture , when it comes to mineral oil, this is not always the case. How is mineral oil different from natural oil? It is obtained artificially. Everyone is familiar with such a substance as Vaseline - this is mineral oil. Of course, it has an exclusively chemical composition, but it is quite safe.

Without taking into account the disclaimer - in washbasins, such products can clog pores and contribute to the appearance of comedones. It seems that this is bad luck, because cleansers, on the contrary, should help rid the skin of harmful substances. But mineral oil can “lock” these substances and hide them away.

Therefore, the use of this “white oil” is not recommended for people with problematic and oily skin. Many also complain about carcinogens in the composition, which can cause cancer. In fact, the harm from mineral oil in this case has not been proven and is considered an effective marketing ploy from manufacturers of so-called “natural cosmetics.”

The best gel scrubs for washing

Products with granules, in addition to removing impurities, delicately scrub the skin. Typically, the concentration of abrasive in them is low (unlike cream scrubs), so such gels can be used every day to delicately renew the texture and remove blackheads. The only caveat: do not use abrasive cleansers if you have pimples - this will only increase their number.

Naomi Cleansing Face Gel With Dead Sea Minerals – for deep cleansing of the skin

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

86%

buyers recommend this product

Gel with Dead Sea minerals effectively cleanses any impurities, exfoliates old cells and improves air exchange in the upper layers of the skin. The formula is enriched with panthenol, aloe vera, yarrow and chamomile extracts, as well as jojoba oil.

This composition perfectly soothes, restores, moisturizes and nourishes the skin. The gel does not dry out or injure the epidermis, improves complexion and frees clogged pores. Such a delicate renewing product is suitable for any skin type.

Advantages:

Rich composition;
Delicate peeling effect;
Comprehensive skin care;
Reducing clogged pores;
Economical consumption.

Flaws:

Not on sale everywhere.

Naomi Gel Scrub is best suited for porous skin that is prone to comedones or has a bumpy texture.

Dove Nutrium Moisture Beauty Serum Facial Cleansing Foam – gentle peeling gel

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

83%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

A gentle cream-gel with tiny exfoliating particles gently cleanses and polishes the skin. Its milky texture with an unobtrusive floral aroma hardly foams, but this does not interfere with the removal of even stubborn makeup.

The product contains extracts of citrus fruits, blueberries and cane. They moisturize, soften and restore the skin, and also give it a healthy glow. The product does not dry out the epidermis and is suitable even for those with dehydrated skin for daily use. However, you should not use Dove Nutrium to remove eye makeup, so as not to harm delicate skin.

Advantages:

Does not irritate or dry the skin;
Effectively removes stubborn cosmetics;
Low consumption;
Affordable price 250 rubles

Flaws:

Not suitable for eyelid makeup remover.

Dove caring cream-gel will be appreciated by lovers of multifunctional products. It is especially pleasant to use it in the cold season.

Himalaya Oil Clear Face Wash Strawberry – strawberry jelly for oily skin

4.6

★★★★★

editorial assessment

80%

buyers recommend this product

This berry gel with plant granules is specially designed for normal to oily skin. A mix of strawberry and gooseberry extracts, seasoned with natural abrasive, intensively cleanses the skin of sebum and deep impurities, and the bright aroma turns the procedure into a real pleasure.

Himalaya Oil perfectly eliminates flaking, evens out skin texture, gives the face a healthy tone and radiance. The gel regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands throughout the day, preventing the appearance of oily sheen in the T-zone and inflammation. At the same time, it does not dry out the skin and is suitable for daily use.

Advantages:

Deeply cleanses the skin;
Evens out the tone and texture of the face;
Gives a matting effect;
Economical consumption;
Low price.

Flaws:

Very bright scent.

Himalaya gel scrub is good for caring for oily, dehydrated skin. In addition, it will help get rid of dullness and flaking, if any.

Useful components

IMPORTANT! Mild surfactants, unlike anionic surfactants, do not harm the skin, but also actively cleanse it. They are usually called “amphoteric”; these substances have a much lower charge of particles that stick to the layers of the skin. They wash and clean, but not to the point of squeaking. Typically they are listed on the packaging as follows: cocoaminopropyl betaine and imidazoline (sodium cocoamphoacetate). You can distinguish them in their composition by foaming; it is not as active as that of aggressive components.

Therefore, they are often used together with anionic surfactants, as they make aggressive substances less dangerous. The substance is obtained from natural raw materials, for example, from coconut oil. Many hydrophilic oils also contain such surfactants.

The best men's face washes

Men's skin is denser and secretes sebaceous secretions more actively, so it requires special care. Special gels for cleansing it prevent inflammation and even reduce irritation after shaving, as they contain antibacterial and soothing components.

Loccitane Cedrat – citrus boost

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

This men's gel contains a large number of herbal ingredients and works well on oily, porous skin. The active ingredients here are citrus extracts, which also brighten and even out the complexion, eliminate inflammation and redness.

The gel formula is supplemented with tiny abrasive particles to carefully remove dead skin cells. A pleasant bonus is the invigorating aroma of citrus lemonade, the echoes of which linger on the skin after washing.

Advantages:

Intensively cleanses the skin;
Does not dry;
Evens out tone and refreshes the face;
Reduces enlarged pores and eliminates breakouts;
Has a bright invigorating aroma.

Flaws:

The price of the bottle is 1700 rubles.

Loccitane Cedrat is recommended for adult men suffering from excessive oily skin and rashes.