15 Best Face Wash for Sensitive Skin in U.S. [December, 2023]

Sensitive skin requires gentle cleansers that won’t strip away natural oils or cause irritation. The best face washes for sensitive skin are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and contain soothing ingredients to calm redness and inflammation. With so many products on the market, it can be tricky to find one that works for your unique skin needs.

To help you choose the right sensitive skin cleanser, we tested and reviewed the top 15 face washes specifically formulated for easily irritated complexions. Read on for an in-depth look at each product, key specs and user reviews, plus expert tips on how to pick the best face wash for your sensitive skin type.

1. Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, Gentle Milky Cleanser with Nourishing Oat & Feverfew, to Preserve Skin’s Moisture Barrier, Fragrance-Free, 7.8 fl. oz

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The Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Face Cleanser is a nourishing, milky cleanser formulated with oat extract and feverfew to soothe and protect sensitive skin prone to redness. The gentle formula removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s moisture barrier or causing dryness and irritation.

Key Features:

• Milky, lightweight texture rinses clean without leaving residue
• Oat extract helps nourish sensitive skin and preserve moisture
• Feverfew is a natural ingredient that helps calm irritation
• Free of fragrances, soap, sulfates, and harsh chemicals
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

Users say this cleanser leaves their sensitive skin feeling clean and comforted without tightness or dryness. They love the milky texture that doesn’t lather or foam. Many noticed a reduction in redness and irritation with continued use.

Our tester found this to be an excellent sensitive skin cleanser. The creamy formula rinsed away dirt without stripping the skin. Her face felt clean yet soft and hydrated after use. This is a great daily cleanser for easily inflamed complexions.

2. 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 dermatologist-recommended, soap-free formula designed for sensitive, combination, and oily skin types. It gently removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup without over-drying.

Key Features:

• Light, foaming texture that rinses clean
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Free of fragrances, soap, and harsh irritants
• Clinically shown to be gentle on sensitive skin
• Leaves skin feeling soft and balanced after cleansing

Reviewers say this Cetaphil cleanser leaves their sensitive skin feeling clean and fresh without tightness or dryness. They like the light foam and find it rinses away easily. Many saw a reduction in acne breakouts with continued use.

Our product tester found it to be a nice foaming cleanser that didn’t irritate her sensitive, acne-prone skin. It rinsed away oil and makeup without over-drying. Her face felt clean and comfortable after each use. A great drugstore option for sensitive, oily skin types.

3. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser with Pump Dispenser – 8 fl oz – Formulated Without Common Irritants for Those with Sensitive Skin

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Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a soap-free, hypoallergenic formula free of common irritants like fragrances, dyes, masking fragrance, lanolin, and parabens. It is designed for those with easily irritated, sensitive skin.

Key Features:

• Ultra-gentle, non-foaming gel formula
• Rinses clean without residue
• Free of fragrances, dyes, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens
• Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin
• Can be used on face, hands, and body

Reviewers say this facial cleanser is incredibly gentle on reactive skin. They love that it contains no potential irritants. Many noticed their sensitive skin looked calmer and less red after regular use.

Our product tester found this to be a nice, simple gel cleanser that didn’t cause any irritation or redness. Her sensitive skin felt clean without feeling tight or dry. This is a great hypoallergenic option for those with very easily inflamed complexions.

4. Neutrogena Fragrance Free Ultra Gentle Foaming Daily Cleanser, Hydrating Face Wash for Sensitive Skin, Removes Makeup & Gently Cleanses Without Over Drying, Hypoallergenic, 5.8 fl. oz

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Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser is a soap-free formula designed to remove dirt, oil and makeup while retaining moisture for sensitive skin. It lathers into a light foam to lift impurities without over-drying.

Key Features:

• Foaming gel texture that rinses clean
• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested
• Free of fragrances, oils, dye and soap
• Contains glycerin to hydrate as it cleanses
• Non-comedogenic and non-irritating

Users say this foaming cleanser leaves their sensitive skin feeling clean yet soft and moisturized. They like the light lather and find a little goes a long way. Many saw a reduction in redness with continued use.

Our product tester found this cleanser very gentle on her reactive skin. The light foam rinsed away cleanly and didn’t leave any residue. Her sensitive complexion looked and felt calm and hydrated after each wash. A nice drugstore option.

5. 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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Cetaphil Hydrating Face Wash is a soap-free, non-foaming formula designed to cleanse and hydrate dry, sensitive skin without irritation. It contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin to retain moisture as it gently removes dirt and impurities.

Key Features:

• Rich, creamy gel texture
• Rinses clean without leaving residue
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Soothes and hydrates dry, sensitive skin
• Free of soap, fragrance, and harsh irritants

Reviewers with dry sensitive skin say this Cetaphil cleanser leaves their face feeling soft and hydrated without greasy residue. They love the creamy gel texture that doesn’t foam or lather. Many noticed their complexion looked more even and less irritated over time.

Our product tester found this to be a nice option for dry sensitive skin. The rich gel offered a soothing facial massage and rinsed away cleanly. Her dry cheeks looked dewy and felt moisturized after washing. A great drugstore cleanser for dry, reactive skin types.

6. Burt’s Bees Face Cleanser, Facial Wash for Sensitive Skin, Natural Skin Care, 6 Ounce (Packaging May Vary)

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Burt’s Bees Face Cleanser is a natural, soap-free formula designed to gently cleanse sensitive skin without causing dryness or irritation. It contains soothing botanicals like cotton extract and rice extract to calm inflammation.

Key Features:

• Creamy gel texture that rinses clean
• 99.9% natural origin, soap-free formula
• Calms and nourishes sensitive skin
• Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids
• Free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum

Users say this face wash leaves their sensitive skin looking healthy and radiant. They love the natural ingredients and notice less redness and irritation over time. Many like the soothing botanicals that make it perfect for easily inflamed skin.

Our tester found this to be a nice natural cleanser for reactive complexions. The creamy gel offered a gentle cleanse that didn’t strip her skin. Her face looked clear and calm after rinsing. A good natural option for sensitive skin types.

7. Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser, Daily Facial Cleanser With Calming Feverfew to Help Reduce the Appearance of Redness, Hypoallergenic & Fragrance-Free, 6 fl. oz

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Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser helps reduce the appearance of redness while gently cleansing sensitive facial skin. It contains feverfew extract to soothe irritation and balance skin tone. The soap-free formula won’t disrupt the moisture barrier.

Key Features:

• Foaming gel formula rinses clean
• Clinically shown to visibly reduce redness
• Feverfew extract helps calm irritation
• Free of fragrances, soap, and harsh chemicals
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

Reviewers say this cleanser leaves their irritated skin looking and feeling soothed and refreshed. They saw a noticeable reduction in visible redness with continued use. Many love the light foam that rinses away easily.

Our tester found her reactive complexion looked much calmer after washing with this cleanser. The foaming gel offered a gentle cleanse without irritation, leaving her skin clean, soft and less red. A great option for visibly inflamed skin.

8. Neutrogena Fragrance Free Ultra Gentle Foaming Daily Cleanser, Hydrating Face Wash for Sensitive Skin, Removes Makeup & Gently Cleanses Without Over Drying, Hypoallergenic, 16 fl. oz

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Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Foaming Facial Cleanser gently cleanses while retaining moisture for dry, irritated complexions. The creamy, soap-free lather lifts away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping sensitive skin of its natural oils. Skin is left soft, clean, and hydrated.

Key Features:

• Light foaming texture that rinses clean
• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested
• Glycerin moisturizes as it cleanses
• Free of fragrances, oils, dyes and soaps
• Non-comedogenic and non-irritating

Reviewers say this gentle foaming cleanser leaves their sensitive skin clean and moisturized without feeling tight or dry. They love the creamy lather and how a small amount covers their whole face. Many noticed less redness and fewer breakouts.

Our product tester found this cleanser washed away impurities without irritating her reactive skin. The light foam rinsed clean and her face felt comfortably hydrated after use. A great drugstore option for daily cleansing.

9. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Moisturizing Non-Foaming Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides and Glycerin | Fragrance Free Paraben Free | 19 Fluid Ounce

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CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a non-foaming gel cleanser that contains hyaluronic acid, ceramides and glycerin to hydrate dry, sensitive skin as it cleanses. The creamy formula lifts away dirt and makeup without disrupting the protective skin barrier.

Key Features:

• Rich, creamy gel texture
• Hyaluronic acid and ceramides hydrate sensitive skin
• Rinses clean without leaving residue
• Fragrance-free, soap-free formula
• Non-comedogenic and non-irritating

Reviewers say this CeraVe cleanser leaves their dry sensitive skin feeling clean, soft and nourished. They love the soothing gel texture that doesn’t foam or lather. Many noticed their skin looked healthier and more hydrated over time.

Our product tester found this cleanser very gentle on her reactive skin. The creamy gel offered a soothing facial massage and rinsed away cleanly. Her dry skin looked dewy and comfortable after cleansing. A great drugstore option for dry, sensitive skin.

10. Cetaphil Cream to Foam Face Wash, Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser, 16 oz, For Normal to Dry, Sensitive Skin, with Soothing Prebiotic Aloe, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance Free

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Cetaphil Cream to Foam Face Wash gently cleanses dry sensitive skin with a hydrating cream that transforms into a light, purifying foam. The soothing formula contains prebiotic aloe and vitamin complex to hydrate as it lifts away dirt, oil and makeup. Skin is left clean, soft and comforted.

Key Features:

• Cream transforms into a light foam
• Contains prebiotic aloe to soothe dry skin
• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested
• Rinses away cleanly without residue
• Fragrance-free, soap-free formula

Users say this cleanser leaves their dry sensitive complexion clean and comfortable without tightness or dryness. They love the cream-to-foam texture. Many noticed their skin looked healthier and less irritated over time.

Our tester found this cleanser very gentle yet effective. The creamy foam offered a soothing cleanse that dissolved impurities without drying out her skin. Her face looked clear, calm and hydrated after rinsing. A great drugstore option for dry, reactive skin types.

11. Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser, Hyaluronic Acid & Aloe, Anti-Aging Face Wash, Large Pores & Oily Skin, 6.4 Ounce

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Paula’s Choice RESIST Foaming Cleanser gently yet effectively cleanses sensitive, oily skin while fighting signs of aging. The soap-free formula contains skin-soothing aloe, hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant green tea. It rinses away dirt, oil and makeup without irritation.

Key Features:

• Foaming gel texture that rinses clean
• Aloe and hyaluronic acid soothe and hydrate
• Antioxidants like green tea fight aging signs
• Free of fragrance, soap and harsh chemicals
• Non-comedogenic formula

Users say this cleanser leaves their sensitive, oily skin feeling fresh and clean without dryness or tightness. They love the refreshing foam and notice smaller looking pores over time. Many saw fewer breakouts with continued use.

Our tester found her reactive, oily complexion looked clear and calm after using this cleanser. The foaming gel offered a refreshing cleanse without irritation. Her skin felt clean and comfortable, not stripped after rinsing. A great option for aging, oily sensitive skin.

12. Eucerin Hydrating Cleansing Gel, Daily Facial Cleanser Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, 6.8 Fl Oz

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Eucerin Hydrating Cleansing Gel gently cleanses sensitive skin while infusing it with hydrating hyaluronic acid. The soap-free formula removes dirt, oil and makeup without disrupting the protective moisture barrier. Skin feels clean, soft and nourished.

Key Features:

• Light gel texture that rinses clean
• Hyaluronic acid hydrates sensitive skin
• Free of fragrances, soap and drying alcohols
• pH balanced, non-comedogenic formula
• Dermatologist recommended for sensitive skin

Users say this cleanser leaves their sensitive skin clean and refreshed without tightness or dryness. They love the light gel texture and how soft their skin feels after cleansing. Many noticed fewer signs of irritation with continued use.

Our product tester found this to be a nice, simple gel cleanser for reactive skin. It offered a gentle cleanse that didn’t strip or irritate. Her sensitive complexion looked clear and comfortable after rinsing away impurities. A good drugstore option suitable for all skin types.

13. Curel Japanese Skin Care Foaming Daily Face Wash for Sensitive Skin, Hydrating Facial Cleanser for Dry Skin, pH-Balanced and Fragrance-Free, 5 Ounces (Step 2 of 2-Step Skincare)

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Curel Foaming Daily Face Wash is a gentle Japanese skin care cleanser formulated for dry, reactive complexions. It transforms from a moisture-infused cream to a light purifying foam to lift away impurities without stripping sensitive skin. Skin feels clean, soft and hydrated after rinsing.

Key Features:

• Creamy foam rinses clean
• Hydrates and soothes dry sensitive skin
• Balances skin’s pH levels
• Fragrance-free, soap-free formula
• Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin

Users say this cleanser leaves their dry sensitive skin feeling clean and refreshed without tightness or dryness. They love the creamy lather. Many noticed their complexion looked calmer and more even-toned with continued use.

Our tester found this cleanser very gentle yet effective for dry, irritated skin. The creamy foam cleansed away impurities without causing dryness or irritation. Her sensitive skin looked smooth, clear and comfortable after rinsing. A great Japanese skin care option.

14. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser 5.07 fl.oz/150ml, Daily Mild Face Cleanser for Sensitive Skin with BHA & Tea-Tree Oil, PH Balancing, Anti Breakouts, No Parabens, No Sulfates, Korean Skincare

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COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is a Korean beauty cleanser that gently cleanses and balances sensitive skin. It contains BHA to gently exfoliate and tea tree oil to soothe irritation and redness. The low pH formula won’t disrupt the skin’s barrier.

Key Features:

• Light gel formula rinses clean
• Balances skin’s pH levels
• BHA exfoliates, tea tree oil calms
• Free of parabens, sulfates, fragrances
• Vegan, cruelty-free formula

Reviewers say this cleanser leaves their sensitive skin feeling fresh and renewed. They love the clarifying effects of BHA without dryness or irritation. Many noticed fewer breakouts and a more even tone over time.

Our product tester found this low pH cleanser very gentle on her reactive skin yet effective at removing impurities. It offered a refreshing cleanse that didn’t strip or inflame skin. Her face looked clear and calm after rinsing. A nice K-beauty option for sensitive, breakout-prone skin.

15. Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, Targets Dull Skin, Moisture Rich Soy Extract, Non-Comedogenic, Oil- & Soap-Free, Hypoallergenic, 11 Fl. Oz

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Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Facial Cleanser is a gentle, hydrating cleanser formulated with moisture-rich soy extract to brighten dull sensitive skin without irritation. The soap-free formula removes impurities and reveals a more radiant, even-toned complexion.

Key Features:

• Creamy, non-foaming gel texture
• Soy extract helps brighten dull skin
• Hydrates and soothes sensitive skin
• Oil-free, soap-free and hypoallergenic
• Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin

Users say this cleanser leaves their sensitive skin looking radiant and renewed. They love how it hydrates while gently removing impurities. Many noticed their complexion looked more even, smooth and luminous with continued use.

Our product tester found this cleanser to be very gentle yet effective at brightening her dull reactive skin. The creamy gel offered a soothing cleanse that revealed a more radiant complexion after rinsing. A nice drugstore option for sensitive skin needing brightness.

Comparison for Best Face Wash for Sensitive Skin

How to Choose the Best Face Wash for Sensitive Skin

With so many products on the market, choosing the best sensitive skin cleanser for your needs can be challenging. Here are a few tips to help you pick the right gentle cleanser for your easily irritated complexion:

Look for soap-free formulas – Soap can be harsh and drying for sensitive skin. Opt for soap-free, non-foaming cleansers.

Avoid fragrances – Fragrances, whether natural or synthetic, can trigger sensitivity. Choose fragrance-free face washes.

Check the ingredients list – Steer clear of potential irritants like sulfates, essential oils and alcohols which can further inflame sensitive skin.

Choose nourishing ingredients – Seek out face washes with soothing, skin-loving ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and glycerin.

Know your skin type – Consider your skin’s specific needs. Gel cleansers suit oily skin while creams are ideal for dry.

Do a patch test – Try a small amount on your inner arm to test for any adverse reactions before full use.

Go for gentler formulas from trusted brands designed specifically for easily inflamed complexions.

Types of Face Washes for Sensitive Skin

There are a few main types of cleansers formulated specifically for reactive and easily irritated skin:

Gel Cleansers – Gel cleansers are lightweight and refreshing. They work well for oily, acne-prone sensitive skin types.

Cream Cleansers – Creamy cleansers offer heavier hydration to soothe dry, flaky sensitive skin. Rinse away impurities without stripping moisture.

Milk Cleansers – Milky cleansers have a lightweight creamy texture that dissolves oil and makeup without drying sensitive skin.

Foaming Cleansers – Foaming cleansers lift away impurities and dirt with soft, soap-free lathers ideal for sensitive skin. Rinse thoroughly.

Cleansing Oils – Cleansing oils melt away makeup and sebum without irritating sensitive skin. Emulsify with water before rinsing.

Cleansing Balms – Cleansing balms melt onto skin to gently dissolve makeup without stripping sensitive complexions of natural oils. Rinse with warm water.

How to Use and Care for Sensitive Skin Cleansers

Using the proper techniques when cleansing and caring for your sensitive skin can make a big difference. Here are some tips:

Cleanse gently – Don’t rub or scrub sensitive skin which can cause redness. Use light, gentle motions.

Use lukewarm water – Very hot or cold water can trigger sensitive skin. Stick to lukewarm temperatures.

Avoid over-cleansing – Cleanse once or twice daily. Overwashing can dry out sensitive skin.

Rinse thoroughly – Rinse away all cleanser residue thoroughly after washing. Leftover cleanser can irritate.

Pat dry – After cleansing, pat sensitive skin dry gently with a clean towel. Don’t rub.

Moisturize – Follow cleansing with a fragrance-free moisturizer suited for sensitive skin. This helps retain hydration.

Use a proper makeup remover – Never use just a face wash to remove makeup. Use a dedicated sensitive skin makeup remover before cleansing.

Check ingredients – When trying new products, look for soothing ingredients safe for sensitive complexions. Avoid potential irritants.

Gentle exfoliation – Use very soft facial scrubs or chemical exfoliators like lactic acid sparingly to avoid irritation.

FAQs about Best Face Wash for Sensitive Skin

Q. What is the best face wash for sensitive skin?

Some of the best face washes for sensitive skin include Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser, Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, and Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Cleanser. The best cleansers for sensitive skin are fragrance-free, soap-free, and contain skin-soothing and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, oatmeal, and ceramides. They have a lightweight gel or creamy texture that cleanses gently without disrupting the skin’s moisture barrier.

Q. Which face wash is best for sensitive acne prone skin?

Some good face wash options for sensitive, acne-prone skin include Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser, CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, and Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser. Look for acne-fighting ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid in gentle formulas free of fragrances and harsh irritants. Gel or foaming cleansers cleanse away dirt, oil and bacteria without over-drying.

Q. What is the best face wash for sensitive oily skin?

Great face washes for sensitive, oily skin include Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, Simple Kind To Skin Refreshing Gel Face Wash, and Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. Look for cleansers with tea tree, charcoal, or salicylic acid to cut through excess oil without stripping skin. Avoid creamy cleansers which can leave behind residue. Lightweight foaming gels or oils that rinse clean are ideal for oily sensitive skin.

Q. What ingredients should I look for in a good sensitive skin cleanser?

Some of the best ingredients to look for in cleansers formulated for sensitive skin include:

• Aloe vera – Soothes and hydrates irritated skin
• Hyaluronic acid – Binds moisture to the skin
• Glycerin – Attracts water to the skin’s surface
• Oatmeal – Calms inflammation and redness
• Niacinamide – Helps rebuild the skin barrier
• Ceramides – Repairs and strengthens the skin’s barrier

Q. Should I use a face wash for sensitive skin every day?

Yes, it’s fine to use a gentle cleanser formulated for sensitive skin on a daily basis. In fact, consistency is key when caring for sensitive complexions. Just avoid over-cleansing more than twice daily. Be sure to choose a cleanser designed specifically for sensitive skin and follow with a suitable moisturizer.

Q. What’s the difference between a face wash for sensitive skin and a regular face wash?

Face washes made for sensitive skin are free of potential irritants like fragrances, soaps, and alcohols that can further inflame skin. They contain more soothing, skin-loving ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid and oatmeal. The formulas have a lighter, creamier texture and rinse away clean without stripping natural oils.

Q. Can I use a sensitive skin face wash if I don’t have sensitive skin?

Yes, anyone can use a gentle cleanser made for sensitive skin, even if you don’t have a super reactive complexion. The formulas are free of harsh irritants, making them suitable for all skin types. Just be aware they may not deep cleanse or control oils as well as a regular face wash.

Q. What tips can help prevent my sensitive skin from stinging when I wash my face?

Some tips to prevent stinging when cleansing sensitive skin include:

• Use lukewarm water instead of hot
• Choose a fragrance-free, soap-free cleanser
• Avoid scrubbing or rubbing – be very gentle
• Rinse off all residue after cleansing
• Pat skin dry instead of rubbing vigorously
• Apply moisturizer immediately after washing
• Consider a cleanser with skin-soothing ingredients

Conclusion

Caring for sensitive skin requires using gentle, non-irritating cleansers designed to nourish skin rather than strip it. Harsh face washes can compromise the skin’s protective moisture barrier, leading to further irritation.

The best face washes for sensitive skin contain soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, oatmeal, ceramides and glycerin to cleanse skin without causing dryness, redness, and inflammation. They have a creamy, lightweight texture and rinse away cleanly.

When shopping for a new sensitive skin cleanser, avoid fragrances, alcohols and foaming agents. Check the ingredients list carefully and do a patch test before fully incorporating it into your routine. With the proper gentle cleanser, you can reveal calm, clear, comfortable sensitive skin.