15 Best Drugstore Face Wash in U.S. [December, 2023]

Finding an effective yet affordable facial cleanser can be a challenge. With the sheer number of options at the drugstore, how do you know which face wash is right for your skin?

In this blog, we’ve compiled 15 of the top-rated drugstore face washes suitable for different skin types. We’ll explore their key features, benefits for the skin, and what users love about each one.

We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the best cleanser for your needs, compare the different types of drugstore face washes, and offer guidance on how to use them properly. Read on for everything you need to know to find your perfect match!

1. VEILMENT Rice Therapy Rice Bran Scrub Foam Cleanser (5.1fl oz) – Gentle Cleansing Wash for Oily Skin. Exfoliating Facial Scrub for Deep Cleansing and Smooth Skin by LG Household. Rice Complex.

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The VEILMENT Rice Therapy Rice Bran Scrub Foam Cleanser is a gentle yet effective cleanser formulated with rice bran to exfoliate and deeply cleanse oily skin. It contains micro rice bran beads that provide physical exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, excess oil and impurities. Rice bran, rice water and rice extract help control excess sebum production while providing antioxidants and hydration.

This cleanser has a lightweight foaming texture that lathers well to dissolve dirt, makeup and impurities without over-drying. The scrub beads are fine enough to avoid irritation on sensitive skin. Users say it leaves skin feeling fresh, smooth and squeaky clean after each use. The exfoliating effect helps improve skin texture, brightness and the appearance of pores. It’s gentle enough for daily use.

Key Features:

• Micro rice bran scrub beads provide gentle exfoliation
• Rice bran, rice water and rice extract nourish skin and control excess oils
• Foaming gel texture removes impurities without drying out skin
• Suitable for oily, combination and sensitive skin types
• Leaves skin feeling clean, smooth and refreshed

Overall, the VEILMENT Rice Therapy Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for oily and combination skin that needs a deep cleanse. The rice bran provides exfoliation and oil control, making it great for treating clogged pores and uneven texture.

2. Cetaphil Cream to Foam Face Wash, Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser, 8 oz, For Normal to Dry, Sensitive Skin, with Soothing Prebiotic Aloe, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance Free

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The Cetaphil Cream to Foam Face Wash is a 2-in-1 cleanser specially formulated for dry, sensitive skin. It starts as a rich, hydrating cream and transforms into a soft, foaming lather upon contact with water. This gives a gentle cleanse that removes dirt, makeup and impurities without stripping moisture from the skin.

It is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it suitable for easily irritated skin. The formula contains soothing aloe vera and prebiotic technology to support the skin’s moisture barrier. Many users say it leaves their skin feeling soft and smooth without tightness or dryness. The creamy foam rinses clean without residue.

Key Features:

• Rich cream transforms into a gentle foaming lather
• Hydrates while cleansing to prevent dryness
• Soothes and protects sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
• Rinses clean without residue

The Cetaphil Cream to Foam Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for dry and sensitive skin types. The hydrating creamy formula cleans effectively while being gentle on easily irritated complexions.

3. Neutrogena Deep Clean Daily Facial Cream Cleanser with Beta Hydroxy Acid to Remove Dirt, Oil & Makeup, Alcohol-Free, Oil-Free & Non-Comedogenic, 7 fl. oz

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The Neutrogena Deep Clean Daily Facial Cleanser is a cream cleanser formulated with beta hydroxy acid (BHA) to cleanse and exfoliate the skin. The BHA works to dissolve and sweep away dirt, excess oil and makeup. It helps unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.

The cream base keeps the skin nourished while cleansing. It rinses clean without leaving any greasy residue behind. The formula is non-comedogenic, oil-free and alcohol-free. It’s suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive. Users say it leaves their skin feeling clean and refreshed without over-drying. With regular use, it helps minimize the appearance of pores.

Key Features:

• Contains beta hydroxy acid to exfoliate and cleanse
• Dissolves dirt, oil and makeup
• Helps unclog pores and remove dead skin cells
• Rinses clean without residue
• Non-comedogenic, oil-free and alcohol-free

The Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for cleansing, exfoliating and unclogging pores without dryness. The BHA helps keep breakouts and blackheads at bay.

4. First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant for Keratosis Pilaris with 10% AHA 2 oz.

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The First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Scrub is a powerful face and body scrub formulated to treat bumps and rough patches from keratosis pilaris (KP). It contains a 10% concentration of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) to provide intense chemical exfoliation. The scrub also has physical exfoliants to buff away dead skin.

The scrub deeply unclogs pores, smooths rough bumpy skin and fades discoloration. It helps reduce ingrown hairs and works well on arms, legs, back, chest and face. The formula is free of harsh abrasives that could further irritate the skin. Users say it makes their KP bumps less noticeable with regular use.

Key Features:

• 10% AHAs provide intense chemical exfoliation
• Physical scrub beads buff away dead skin
• Unclogs pores, smooths bumps, fades marks
• Safe for face and body
• Helps treat keratosis pilaris (KP)

The First Aid Beauty KP Scrub is one of the best drugstore face washes for treating bumpy texture and rough patches resulting from keratosis pilaris. The powerful AHA formula smooths and resurfaces the skin.

5. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Facial Cleanser, Non-Foaming Face Wash for Sensitive Skin, Gently Cleanses Face Without Over Drying, Oil-Free, Soap-Free, Fragrance-Free, 12 fl. oz

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The Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is a mild, non-foaming gel cleanser ideal for dry and sensitive skin. It provides gentle yet effective cleansing to remove dirt, oil and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural moisture.

The soap-free, oil-free formula has a creamy, lightweight gel texture that glides over skin and rinses easily. It contains skin conditioners to soften and hydrate as it cleans. The cleanser is non-comedogenic, dye-free, fragrance-free and clinically tested for sensitive skin. Users say it leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed but not tight or dry.

Key Features:

• Rich gel formula cleanses without drying
• Soap-free and oil-free
• Gentle enough for sensitive skin
• Leaves skin soft and hydrated
• Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic

The Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for dry, delicate skin that needs gentle yet effective cleansing. It provides a deep clean without compromise to the skin’s moisture barrier.

6. Cetaphil Face Wash, Daily Facial Cleanser for Sensitive, Combination to Oily Skin, NEW 16 oz, Fragrance Free,Gentle Foaming, Soap Free, Hypoallergenic

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The Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is a fan favorite cleanser recommended for sensitive, oily and combination skin. It provides an effective foamy cleanse that removes excess oil, makeup and impurities without stripping the skin.

The extra gentle formula contains no harsh sulfates or soaps that could irritate sensitive skin. It rinses completely clean without leaving any greasy residue behind. Cetaphil cleanser is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free. Users say it leaves their skin feeling fresh and clean without tight dryness.

Key Features:

• Foaming action cleanses without stripping skin
• Removes dirt, oil and makeup
• Rinses clean with no greasy residue
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Suitable for sensitive, oily, combination skin

The Cetaphil Daily Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for people with sensitive or oily skin types who want an effective yet gentle daily cleanse. It cleans without compromising the skin’s moisture barrier.

7. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Moisturizing Non-Foaming Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides and Glycerin | Fragrance Free Paraben Free | 16 Fluid Ounce

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The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a non-foaming gel cleanser that effectively removes dirt and impurities while retaining moisture in the skin. It contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to hydrate and reinforce the skin’s protective barrier.

The soap-free formula has a creamy gel texture that gently cleanses without stripping natural oils. It helps restore skin hydration and maintain balance. Users with dry, sensitive skin say it leaves their face feeling soft and nourished, never tight or dry. It helps reduce flakiness and irritation.

Key Features:

• Non-foaming gel hydrates as it cleanses
• Hyaluronic acid and ceramides hydrate and protect
• Retains moisture and strengthens barrier
• Fragrance-free and non-irritating
• Suitable for dry, sensitive skin

The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for dry and sensitive skin types. It provides a soap-free cleansing experience that hydrates and rejuvenates the skin barrier.

8. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser | Daily Face Wash for Oily Skin with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Niacinamide| Fragrance Free Paraben Free | 19 Fluid Ounce

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The CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is a soap-free foaming cleanser that removes dirt and excess oil from oily skin while retaining moisture. It contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate, calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.

This cleanser has a refreshing foam texture that dissolves impurities, sweeps away dead skin cells and rinses clean without residue. It cleans effectively while maintaining the skin’s protective moisture barrier, keeping it balanced. Users say it leaves their oily and acne-prone skin clean but not squeaky tight.

Key Features:

• Foaming action cleanses oily skin
• Ceramides and hyaluronic acid hydrate and protect
• Niacinamide calms inflammation
• Non-comedogenic and non-irritating
• Leaves oily skin clean and balanced

The CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for oily and acne-prone skin types. It provides an invigorating cleanse while being gentle on the skin.

9. Rael Face Wash, Miracle Clear Exfoliating Cleanser – Face Cleanser for Oily and Acne Prone Skin, Gentle Facial Cleanser, Hydrating, w/Succinic Acid & Minerice, Vegan, Cruelty Free (5.1 fl. oz)

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The Rael Miracle Clear Exfoliating Cleanser is a 2-in-1 cleanser and chemical exfoliant that clarifies and smooths oily, acne-prone skin. It contains succinic acid which provides gentle exfoliation to unclog pores and reveal brighter, clearer skin over time.

This cleanser lathers into a light foam to dissolve oil, makeup and other impurities. It also contains mineral rice water to balance sebum and tighten pores. The creamy gel is gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin. It rinses clean without any dry, tight feeling. Users report their breakouts and blackheads are reduced with regular use.

Key Features:

• 2-in-1 cleanser and chemical exfoliant
• Succinic acid unclogs pores and exfoliates
• Mineral rice water balances sebum and tightens pores
• Gentle creamy gel suitable for daily use
• Clarifies and smooths oily, acne-prone skin

The Rael Miracle Clear Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for oily, acne-prone skin that needs exfoliation to reduce breakouts and clogged pores. The succinic acid keeps skin clear and balanced.

10. Clean & Clear Essentials Foaming Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, Oil-Free Daily Face Wash to Remove Dirt, Oil & Makeup, 8 fl. oz

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The Clean & Clear Essentials Foaming Facial Cleanser is a soap-free foaming cleanser that removes impurities from sensitive skin without causing irritation. It has a lush lather that lifts away dirt, oil and makeup without over-drying the skin.

The formula is oil-free, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. It rinses clean without leaving behind any greasy residue. Users with easily irritated skin say it cleanses effectively while being very gentle. It does not leave their face feeling tight or dry. With regular use, it helps control oil and shine.

Key Features:

• Foamy lather cleanses sensitive skin
• Oil-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic
• Rinses clean without residue
• Gentle enough for daily use
• Prevents tightness and dryness

The Clean & Clear Foaming Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for people with sensitive skin who want a refreshing, residue-free cleanse. It cleans without irritating.

11. Cetaphil Face Wash, Hydrating Gentle Skin Cleanser for Dry to Normal Sensitive Skin, NEW 20oz, Fragrance Free, Soap Free and Non-Foaming

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The Cetaphil Hydrating Gentle Skin Cleanser is a soap-free facial cleanser that gently removes dirt, impurities and makeup without stripping moisture from dry, sensitive skin. Its lightweight low-lather formula cleans effectively while hydrating and protecting the skin barrier.

It contains hydrating and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamins B5 and E, and allantoin to prevent dryness as it cleanses. The creamy non-foaming texture rinses clean and leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and moisturized. Users with very sensitive or eczema-prone skin say it does not cause any irritation or stinging.

Key Features:

• Gently cleanses dry, sensitive skin
• Soap-free, fragrance-free formula
• Hydrates and soothes as it cleanses
• Rinses clean without residue
• Leaves skin soft and moisturized

The Cetaphil Hydrating Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for extremely dry and sensitive complexions needing a soap-free, non-irritating cleanse. It retains moisture as it gently removes impurities.

12. [Beauty of Joseon] Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser (100ml, 3.38 fl.oz.)

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The Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser is a Korean gel cleanser formulated with antioxidants from green plums to nourish and revitalize dull skin. It has a bouncy gel texture that lathers into a light foam to gently remove makeup and impurities.

Green plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants to nourish the skin while cleansing. They help brighten and even out skin tone over time with regular use. The cleanser leaves skin feeling refreshed, balanced and soft without tightness. It has a light fruity scent from natural plum extract.

Key Features:

• Antioxidant-rich green plum extract
• Brightens and nourishes skin
• Bouncy gel transforms into gentle foam
• Balances and refreshes skin
• Light fruity scent from plum extract

The Beauty of Joseon Plum Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for dull, tired skin needing a nourishing boost of antioxidants and gentle cleansing. The plum extract leaves skin brighter and more radiant.

13. Youth To The People Facial Cleanser, Refill – Kale and Green Tea Cleanser – Gentle Face Wash, Makeup Remover + Pore Minimizer for All Skin Types – Vegan (16oz)

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The Youth to the People Kale + Green Tea Cleanser is a nourishing daily face wash suitable for all skin types. It’s powered by superfood antioxidants kale, spinach, green tea and cold-pressed extracts to cleanse and condition skin. This vegan cleanser removes impurities and makeup without stripping the skin.

The soap-free formula has a creamy gel base that does not lather but effectively dissolves oils, sunscreen and makeup buildup. Green tea, aloe vera and cucumber soothe and hydrate skin. With regular use, pores appear minimized. Users say it leaves their skin feeling soft, clean and balanced.

Key Features:

• Kale, spinach and green tea nourish and protect
• Creamy non-foaming gel texture
• Gently cleanses without stripping
• Soothes and hydrates skin
• Minimizes the look of pores

The Youth to the People Kale + Green Tea Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for all skin types. The antioxidant superfood extracts cleanse while nourishing and conditioning the skin.

14. Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash, Clarifying, Sulfate-Free, 16 oz

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The Olay Daily Facial Cleanser with niacinamide and peptides is a nourishing cleanser formulated to clarify, smooth and visibly minimize pores. Niacinamide helps control oil and sebum production while peptides improve skin texture.

This sulfate-free face wash has a silky gel-cream texture that lathers well to dissolve dirt, oil and makeup. It rinses clean without leaving skin feeling stripped or dry. Skin looks fresh, matte and more even toned. Users with combination to oily skin say their pores appear smaller and blackheads/breakouts are reduced.

Key Features:

• Niacinamide controls oil and sebum
• Peptides improve texture and smoothness
• Gentle creamy lather cleanses thoroughly
• Rinses clean without dryness or irritation
• Clarifies, minimizes pores, evens skin tone

The Olay Daily Cleanser with niacinamide is one of the best drugstore face washes for oily, acne-prone skin. It clarifies and refines skin texture while keeping excess oil under control.

15. Natural Outcome Charcoal Face Wash | Daily Detoxifying Charcoal Cleanser for Acne | Deep Pore Cleanser Hydrates & Purifies Skin with Green Tea, Aloe Vera, & Ginkgo Biloba | For Men & Women | 8 oz

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The Natural Outcome Charcoal Face Wash is a detoxifying cleanser formulated with activated charcoal and plant extracts to draw out impurities from clogged pores. The concertation of charcoal absorbs excess oil, dirt and toxins deep within pores to prevent breakouts and acne.

This cleanser has a creamy gel texture that lathers into a rich foam. Green tea, aloe vera and ginkgo biloba soothe inflammation, hydrate and protect the skin. It rinses clean without leaving residue. Users say it leaves their oily, acne-prone skin feeling deeply cleansed but not dry or stripped. Pores appear cleaner and smaller over time.

Key Features:

• Activated charcoal detoxifies and deep cleanses
• Green tea, aloe and ginkgo soothe and hydrate
• Foaming gel draws out impurities
• Cleanses without stripping or over-drying
• Helps treat acne and clogged pores

The Natural Outcome Charcoal Cleanser is one of the best drugstore face washes for oily, acne-prone skin that needs deep cleansing and detox. The charcoal absorbs impurities within pores to prevent breakouts.

Comparison for Best Drugstore Face Washes

How to Choose the Best Drugstore Face Wash

With so many options on the market, choosing the best drugstore face wash for your needs can seem overwhelming. Here are some tips to pick the right cleanser for your skin type and concerns:

Consider your skin type – Dry, oily, combination, sensitive? Choose a cleanser formulated for your specific needs. Gel or foam cleansers are great for oily skin while cream/milk cleansers tend to be less drying for dry skin types.

Look at key ingredients – Know which ingredients target your concerns e.g. salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide for acne-prone skin; hyaluronic acid and ceramides for dry skin. Avoid irritants.

Read reviews and feedback – Check what people with similar skin types are saying. Their experiences can help determine if a cleanser will work well for you or cause adverse reactions.

Do a patch test – Try the cleanser on a small area first to test for any irritation or allergic reactions before full use.

Give it time – Use a new cleanser consistently for at least 2 weeks to accurately gauge its effects on your skin.

Consider your budget – Drugstore cleansers range from $5 to $20. Set a comfortable budget and choose cost-effective options that give you the best value.

Choosing the right face wash takes some trial and error. Pay attention to how your skin looks and feels with each product to determine if it’s the best fit!

Different Types of Drugstore Face Washes

There are a few main types of face washes you’ll commonly find at drugstores:

Foaming cleansers – These typically contain surfactants that create a rich, foamy lather to lift away dirt and oils. Great for oily skin but can be drying for dry skin types.

Cream cleansers – Creamy, milky textures that gently cleanse skin without stripping natural oils. Better for dry and sensitive skin.

Gel cleansers – Light gel formulas that are water-based. Gently cleanse without heavy lather. Suitable for most skin types.

Exfoliating cleansers – Contain chemical exfoliants like AHAs/BHAs or physical scrubs to exfoliate. Help unclog pores and reveal brighter skin.

Clay/Charcoal cleansers – Contain clay, charcoal or volcanic ash. Help absorb excess oils and deep clean pores. Great for acne-prone skin.

Cleansing oils – Oil-based cleansers that dissolve makeup and sunscreens. Require a secondary cleanser to rinse away residue after.

Tips for Using Drugstore Face Washes

Here are some tips to use your drugstore face wash effectively and safely:

• Wet face with lukewarm water before applying cleanser. Massage it over damp skin.
• Use a small amount – usually a dime to quarter size of product is sufficient.
• Gently massage the cleanser over your face for 30-60 seconds. Don’t scrub harshly.
• Rinse thoroughly until no residue remains on your skin.
• Pat dry gently with a clean towel. Don’t rub vigorously.
• Cleanse once or twice daily. Over-cleansing can dry out your skin.
• If using a scrub or exfoliant, limit use to 2-3 times per week max.
• Apply moisturizer immediately after cleansing to lock in hydration.
• Always do a patch test before trying a new cleanser.
• If it stings or irritates your skin, discontinue use.

Using a good face wash is an essential first step for healthy, glowing skin! Follow these tips to maximize the benefits of your drugstore cleanser.

FAQs about Best Drugstore Face Washes

Q. What is the best drugstore face wash?

There are many excellent drugstore face washes to suit different skin types and concerns. Some of the top picks include Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser for sensitive and dry skin, CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for oily skin, and Neutrogena Deep Clean Cleanser with beta hydroxy acid to exfoliate and clear pores. Look for targeted ingredients that address your skin’s specific needs. Always patch test new cleansers.

Q. What is the best drugstore face wash for acne?

Some top drugstore face washes to treat acne are Neutrogena Deep Clean Cleanser containing acne-fighting salicylic acid, Natural Outcome Charcoal Cleanser to detoxify pores, and Rael Miracle Clear Cleanser with succinic acid to gently exfoliate and prevent breakouts. Look for acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil.

Q. What is the best drugstore face wash for combination skin?

The best face washes for combination skin are gentle foaming cleansers that can remove excess oil without over-drying dry areas. Great options include Cetaphil Daily Cleanser for combination to oily skin, CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser with niacinamide to balance oil production, and La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser which clarifies oil while hydrating.

Q. How do I choose the best face wash for my skin type?

Look for formulas designed for your skin’s needs – gel cleansers for oily skin, creamy washes for dry skin, etc. Check the ingredients to ensure they won’t cause irritation. Always patch test new cleansers.

Q. Should I use face scrubs daily?

No, facial scrubs should only be used 2-3 times per week max. Over-exfoliating with harsh scrubs can damage skin. Use gentle chemical exfoliants daily instead.

Q. Do drugstore face washes expire?

Yes, most have a shelf life of 12-24 months once opened. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and toss when they smell or look off.

Q. Can I just use water instead of face wash?

Washing with just water will not effectively remove dirt, oil, makeup and impurities that can clog pores and cause acne. Use a proper facial cleanser formulated for your skin type.

Q. Which is better: foaming or gel cleansers?

Foaming cleansers offer deeper cleansing for oily skin. Gel cleansers are more gentle for dry and sensitive skin types. Choose based on your skin’s needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right face cleanser is key for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Drugstore brands offer affordable yet effective options suitable for all skin types. Look for targeted ingredients that treat your specific concerns. Test new products to ensure they don’t irritate your skin. With the right daily cleanser, you’ll be on your way to clear and luminous skin!