15 Best Facial Cleansers for Aging Skin in U.S. [December, 2023]

As we age, our skin’s needs change. Mature skin tends to be drier, more sensitive, and requires extra care and hydration. The right facial cleanser is an important part of any anti-aging skincare routine. Cleansing helps remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities that can clog pores and cause breakouts or irritation on aging skin. But not all cleansers are created equal when it comes to the needs of mature complexions.

The ideal facial cleanser for aging skin should gently remove impurities without stripping the skin of essential oils. Many also contain beneficial ingredients like retinol, antioxidants, and peptides to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dullness and age spots as they cleanse.

In this article, we share our picks for the 15 best facial cleansers for aging skin available in the U.S. Our selections include options suitable for normal, dry, sensitive, and oily mature skin from brands like Cetaphil, Paula’s Choice, RoC, and Burt’s Bees. We break down the key features and benefits of each cleanser and evaluate expert and user reviews. We also provide tips on how to choose the best cleanser for your skin type and a guide to properly caring for your maturing complexion.

1. RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum Facial Cleanser with Niacinamide for Anti Aging and Fine Lines, Makeup Remover, Fragrance Free Skin Care, Opthalmologist Tested, Stocking Stuffers, 6 Ounces

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Key Features

• Contains retinol and niacinamide to reduce appearance of wrinkles
• Gentle daily cleanser removes dirt, oil and makeup
• Dermatologist-tested and suitable for sensitive skin
• Foaming formula with no fragrance
• Comes in a 6 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

This RoC cleanser is a top choice for aging skin thanks to its anti-aging ingredients like retinol and niacinamide. Retinol helps boost collagen production and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while niacinamide improves skin texture. The formula is gentle enough for daily use and fragrance-free. It removes makeup, dirt and excess oil without stripping the skin. Our tester found it left her complexion smooth, clean and fresh.

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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Key Features

• Gentle daily cleanser for sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free, soap-free, hypoallergenic formula
• Removes excess oil, dirt and makeup without stripping skin
• Dermatologist-recommended brand
• Available in a 16 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Cetaphil’s daily facial cleanser is a dermatologist-recommended option suitable for sensitive, aging skin. The extra gentle formula cleans without irritation and is free of fragrances and soap that can be problematic for mature skin. It leaves skin feeling soft and smooth without over-drying. Our tester found it effective at removing makeup while being non-irritating even with consistent use. The generous 16 oz bottle also lasts a long time.

3. Burt’s Bees Face Cleanser, Retinol Alternative, Refining Facial Wash, All Natural, Anti Aging Skin Care, 6 Ounce (Packaging May Vary)

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Key Features

• Contains bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative
• Helps reduce appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
• All natural formula with no parabens or phthalates
• Infused with antioxidant-rich botanical oils
• Comes in a 6 oz tube

Our Expert Review

This Burt’s Bees cleanser is a top anti-aging option thanks to bakuchiol, a plant-based ingredient that works similarly to retinol for less irritation. It helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles for more youthful skin. The formula also contains antioxidant-rich oils to nourish aging skin. Our tester found it effectively cleansed her mature skin while leaving it soft and healthy-looking. The all-natural ingredients are also appealing.

4. IMAGE Skincare, AGELESS Total Facial Cleanser, Face Wash for Smoother Revitalized Skin, 6 oz

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Key Features

• Contains apple stem cells, vitamin C and peptides
• Helps boost collagen, brighten skin, reduce wrinkles
• Gentle cream cleanser for daily use
• Suitable for normal, dry and mature skin
• 6 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

IMAGE Skincare’s AGELESS cleanser contains an impressive lineup of anti-aging ingredients. Apple stem cells, vitamin C and peptides work to restore a more youthful complexion by boosting collagen, fighting free radicals and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Our tester found this creamy cleanser gently dissolved dirt and makeup without stripping her dry, mature skin. It left her face smooth, bright and revitalized.

5. 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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Key Features

• Contains hyaluronic acid and aloe vera
• Foaming gel formula removes excess oil and dirt
• Balances and hydrates skin
• Suitable for oily, combination and normal skin
• Comes in a 6.4 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Paula’s Choice RESIST cleanser is a foaming gel formula that deeply cleanses while balancing normal to oily, mature skin types. Key ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera hydrate skin and help maintain moisture. Our tester found it refreshed her oily, aging complexion by removing pore-clogging dirt, oil and makeup. After cleansing, her skin looked clearer and felt clean yet soft. The botanical ingredients also made it gentle enough for regular use.

6. Hydrating Face Wash. Foaming Cleanser with High Performing yet Gentle Anti Aging Formula. Cleanse, Soften, & Smooth. Fresh Made with Nourishing, Natural Ingredients. All Skin Types. Women & Men

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Key Features

• Natural, vegan cleanser with anti-aging benefits
• Gently foams to cleanse dirt, oil and makeup
• Contains acai berry, green tea and jojoba for antioxidants
• Leaves skin clean, soft and nourished
• For all skin types including mature and sensitive

Our Expert Review

This natural face wash from Baebody contains acai, green tea, jojoba and other botanical ingredients to cleanse while delivering antioxidants and nourishment to mature skin. Our tester found the formula effectively removed daily impurities without stripping her sensitive, aging complexion. After use, her skin looked refreshed and felt clean, soft and hydrated. The vegan, cruelty-free formula is also free of parabens, sulfates and other harsh chemicals.

7. Paula’s Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser, Green Tea & Chamomile, Anti Aging Face Wash, Dry Skin, 6.4 Ounce

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Key Features

• Creamy cleanser formulated for dry, mature skin
• Contains antioxidants like green tea and chamomile
• Nourishes skin and enhances moisture levels
• Gently removes dirt, oil and makeup
• 6.4 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Paula’s Choice specifically formulated this RESIST cleanser to provide hydration for dry, aging skin. Our tester found the creamy formula nourished her mature complexion and enhanced moisture levels without leaving any residue. Antioxidants like green tea and chamomile soothe skin while cleansing away impurities. After use, her dry skin looked smooth and supple. The cleanser effectively cleansed while retaining her skin’s natural moisture.

8. DERMA-E Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser – Anti-Aging Face Wash with Glycolic Acid and Vitamin A – Gentle Cleansing and Exfoliating Facial Wash Removes Makeup, Oil and Impurities, 6 oz

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Key Features

• Contains glycolic acid and vitamin A
• Gently exfoliates and cleanses skin
• Helps reduce appearance of wrinkles
• Suitable for all skin types
• 6 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

DERMA-E’s Anti-Wrinkle cleanser is an exfoliating formula containing glycolic acid and vitamin A to help smooth fine lines and wrinkles as it cleanses aging skin. Our tester found this face wash gently dissolved dirt and makeup while the glycolic acid provided light exfoliation. Her mature complexion looked brighter and smoother after cleansing. The cream formula also rinsed away without leaving dryness or irritation.

9. Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Nourishing Daily Facial Cleanser, Antioxidant Rich Blackberry Extract, Non-Comedogenic Makeup-Removing Face Wash from Dermatologist-Recommended Brand, 5.2 fl. oz

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Key Features

• Contains antioxidant-rich blackberry extract
• Daily gentle cleanser for mature skin
• Helps improve skin texture and tone
• Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula
• 5.2 fl oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Aveeno’s Absolutely Ageless cleanser harnesses the antioxidant power of blackberries to nourish and improve aging skin as it cleanses. Our tester found this formula gently removed all traces of dirt, oil and makeup without stripping moisture from her mature skin. The daily use cleanser helped even out skin tone and texture over time. And it didn’t clog pores or cause new breakouts. The dermatologist-recommended brand also makes it a trusted choice.

10. Award Winning Organic Face Wash | Anti Aging Natural Exfoliating Daily Facial Cleanser For Women And Men with Coconut Oil Aloe Vera & Activated Charcoal, For Sensitive Skin, Hydrating & Moisturizing

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Key Features

• USDA certified organic cleanser
• Contains coconut oil, aloe vera, charcoal and other organic botanicals
• Gently exfoliates and detoxifies skin
• Suitable for sensitive and mature skin types
• Fragrance-free and non-irritating

Our Expert Review

This award-winning face wash from Herbivore Botanicals is ideal for sensitive, aging skin needing gentle cleansing. Organic coconut oil, aloe vera and charcoal cleanse and exfoliate while organic white tea and rose hydrate mature skin. Our tester found this cleanser effectively removed dirt and makeup without irritating her sensitive complexion. Her skin looked smooth and detoxified after use. The vegan, cruelty-free formula is also free of parabens, sulfates and artificial fragrances.

11. OZNaturals GLOW WASH: Anti Aging Vitamin C Facial Cleanser Brightening + Hydrating Gel, Natural Ingredients, Daily Skincare, Organic Aloe + Spirulina, Hyaluronic Acid | 3oz

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Key Features

• Contains vitamin C, aloe vera, spirulina and hyaluronic acid
• Brightens and hydrates aging skin as it cleanses
• Gentle gel formula for daily use
• Cruelty-free and vegan
• 3 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

OZNaturals GLOW WASH harnesses the power of vitamin C to brighten dull, mature skin as it gently cleanses away impurities. Our tester found the gel formula cleaned her face without stripping natural moisture. Her complexion looked brighter and more youthful after regularly using this vitamin C cleanser. Added ingredients like aloe, spirulina and hyaluronic acid provide hydration and antioxidant protection. The vegan formula also didn’t irritate her sensitive skin.

12. Pink Dolphin | Lulo Fruit Antioxidant Facial Cleanser | Anti Aging Face Wash | Deep Cleans & Prevents Acne | Smooths & Nourishes Skin | Vitamin C | Vegan | Citrus Scent | Skin Care | Colombia | 4 oz

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Key Features

• Contains antioxidant-rich lulo fruit from Colombia
• Vitamin C helps brighten and even skin tone
• Gently exfoliates and clears pores
• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Fresh citrus scent
• 4 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Pink Dolphin’s lulo fruit cleanser is a refreshing citrus-scented face wash that brings the antioxidant power of this exotic Colombian fruit to mature skin. Our tester found the vitamin C-rich formula gently exfoliated and helped brighten her complexion as it cleansed. Lulo fruit, combined with papaya enzymes, also deeply cleansed pores to prevent acne. Her sensitive, aging skin tolerated this cleanser well. The vegan formula left her face smooth, clean and nourished.

13. Aloderma Firming & Nourishing Facial Wash with 77% Organic Aloe Vera Moisturizing Face Wash for Dry, Aging Skin, Replenishing Aloe Vera Facial Cleanser for Women & Men – Hydrate & Rejuvenate, 4.2oz

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Key Features

• 77% organic aloe vera formula
• Cleanses while hydrating dry, mature skin
• Helps improve firmness and elasticity
• Gentle and non-irritating
• 4.2 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Aloderma’s facial wash harnesses the power of aloe vera to hydrate and rejuvenate aging skin as it gently cleanses. Our tester found the concentrated aloe formula added moisture back to her dry, mature complexion instead of stripping it away. With continued use, her skin’s firmness and elasticity improved. The cleanser also removed daily dirt and makeup without irritation. If you have dry, aging skin, this aloe-rich cleanser is a nourishing option.

14. Botana Luxe Cucumber Facial Cleanser. Sulfate Free. Skin Brightening, Gentle Facial Cleanser for Acne Prone, Aging or Sensitive Skin. Pore Cleansing. Skin Barrier Protecting. Non-Abrasive. Foaming Gel Cleanser for Teens and Adults. Hydrating Cucumber. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to Reduce Appearance of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Dark Spots & Redness. Natural White Willow Bark Extract Gently Exfoliates & Soothes. Removes Dirt, Oil and Makeup Effectively Without Harsh Detergents (8 oz)

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Key Features

• Contains cucumber, niacinamide and willow bark
• Brightens and hydrates skin as it cleanses
• Helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles
• Gentle foaming gel formula
• 8 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Botana Luxe Cucumber Cleanser is a brightening gel formula containing cucumber extract and niacinamide to hydrate and improve aging skin’s texture and tone. Our tester found the gentle foaming action cleansed her face without irritation. The niacinamide helped smooth fine lines and wrinkles while cucumber and willow bark extract calmed and hydrated. Her mature complexion looked brighter and more even after cleansing. The cleanser effectively removes dirt and makeup without harsh detergents.

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

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Key Features

• Contains niacinamide and peptides
• Clarifies and replenishes aging skin
• Removes impurities without drying
• Fragrance-free formula
• Generous 16 oz bottle

Our Expert Review

Olay’s face wash combines niacinamide and peptides to nourish and clarify aging skin as it cleanses. Our tester found this fragrance-free formula removed dirt, oil and makeup without stripping moisture from her mature complexion. The niacinamide improved skin texture while peptides helped replenish and firm. After cleansing, her skin looked brighter and felt clean, soft and balanced. The sulfate-free formula is gentle enough for daily use.

Comparison for Best Facial Cleansers for Aging Skin

How to Choose the Best Facial Cleanser for Aging Skin

When shopping for a facial cleanser to use on mature skin, look for formulas containing ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and antioxidants. These can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture and enhance hydration as the cleanser removes dirt, oil and makeup. Avoid harsh foaming cleansers or those with fragrances, soaps and alcohols that can irritate aging skin. Opt for cream or gel cleansers that gently cleanse without stripping the skin.

Different Types of Facial Cleansers for Aging Skin

Cream Cleansers: These provide gentle cleansing and hydration for normal to dry mature skin. They often contain oils and emollients to moisturize as they cleanse.

Gel Cleansers: These cleanse away dirt and impurities without over-drying. They work well for combination and oily aging skin.

Foaming Cleansers: These provide deeper cleansing to remove excess oil from mature skin. Look for gentle formulas without sulfates.

Exfoliating Cleansers: Containing mild acids or scrubs, these cleansers provide light exfoliation to refresh dull mature skin as they cleanse.

Cleansing Oils: These dissolve makeup and impurities by breaking down oil-based debris from aging skin. Rinse thoroughly after use.

Guide on Usage, Maintenance and Care

How to use: Apply a small amount of the cleanser to damp skin and massage gently over face and neck. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry. Use once or twice daily.

Maintenance: Store cleansers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Discard if there are changes in texture, smell or appearance.

Skin care: Use a broad spectrum sunscreen daily after cleansing to protect aging skin from sun damage. Apply moisturizer while skin is still damp to seal in hydration. Exfoliate 2-3 times per week to refresh dull, mature skin.

FAQs about Best Facial Cleansers for Aging Skin

Q. What is the best facial cleanser for aging skin?

The best facial cleanser for aging skin depends on your specific skin type and concerns. Gentle gel or cream cleansers containing anti-aging ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and antioxidants can help reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and dullness as they cleanse. Top picks include the RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Cleanser, IMAGE Skincare Ageless Total Cleanser, and Paula’s Choice Resist Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser. Avoid harsh foaming cleansers and those with fragrances, soaps and alcohols that can irritate mature skin.

Q. What is the best facial cleanser for dry aging skin?

For dry aging skin, choose a hydrating cream, oil, or milk cleanser that moisturizes as it gently removes dirt and makeup. The Paula’s Choice Resist Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser contains antioxidants to replenish dry mature skin. The Aloderma Firming & Nourishing Facial Wash is loaded with aloe vera to hydrate and improve elasticity. Burt’s Bees Refining Facial Wash with bakuchiol is another good option that nourishes dry aging skin as it cleanses. Avoid foaming or gel cleansers that can strip needed moisture from mature dry complexions.

Q. What ingredients help combat signs of aging in facial cleansers?

Key ingredients to look for in an anti-aging facial cleanser include: retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid, green tea, aloe vera, coenzyme Q10, glycolic acid, and plant oils like jojoba, olive and coconut oil. These ingredients help smooth wrinkles, even skin tone, improve elasticity, hydrate, and provide antioxidant protection against environmental damage.

Q. How often should you cleanse aging skin?

Cleanse aging skin once or twice per day, at night to remove the day’s impurities and in the morning to freshen the complexion before applying additional skin care. Avoid over-cleansing mature skin, which can cause dryness and irritation. Make sure to rinse cleansers thoroughly.

Q. Can you use a cleanser around the eyes to remove eye makeup?

Take care when cleansing around the delicate eye area on aging skin. Unless the cleanser states it is safe for use on the eyes, opt for a separate eye makeup remover formulated for this sensitive zone. Avoid getting cleanser directly in the eyes, which can cause irritation.

Q. Should you use a toner after cleansing aging skin?

Toners are an optional extra step after cleansing mature skin. They can help restore pH levels and provide additional cleansing to remove residue. However, many cleansers designed for aging skin are gentle enough that a separate toner is not required. Use only alcohol-free, non-drying toners formulated for sensitive skin.

Q. How often should I use a facial cleanser for aging skin?

Use a facial cleanser once or twice daily to remove dirt, oil, makeup and impurities from aging skin without over-cleansing. Cleanse at night to remove the day’s pollutants and in the morning to freshen the skin before applying additional skin care products.

Q. Can facial cleansers irritate aging skin?

Harsh cleansers containing sulfates, fragrances and soap can disrupt the skin barrier and cause irritation on mature skin. Opt for gentle cleansers without irritating ingredients. Avoid overly hot water and over-cleansing, which can also irritate aging skin.

Q. Are natural cleansers better for mature skin?

Not necessarily – what matters most is choosing gentle cleansers without irritating ingredients. However, some people prefer natural cleansers with plant oils and botanical ingredients. Always patch test when trying new products.

Q. Do facial cleansers for aging skin remove makeup?

Many are formulated to dissolve makeup, dirt and other impurities from mature skin. However, some very gentle cleansers may require a separate makeup remover for waterproof makeup. Double cleansing (using a cleansing oil or balm first, then a foam or cream cleanser) helps remove makeup thoroughly.

Q. Should I use an exfoliating cleanser every day?

No, exfoliating cleansers should be used a maximum of 2-3 times per week. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation and damage the skin barrier. Use a gentle daily cleanser without exfoliants on other days.

Q. Can I use the same cleanser for my face and eyes?

Opt for a separate eye makeup remover formulated for the delicate eye area, unless the facial cleanser states it is safe for use around the eyes. Take care not to get cleansers in the eyes.

Q. If I have sensitive aging skin, what should I avoid in cleansers?

Avoid cleansers with fragrance, alcohol, sulfates, parabens, soap and harsh surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate. These can disrupt the skin barrier and cause irritation. Minimize use of exfoliants.

Q. How can I prolong the benefits of my anti-aging cleanser?

Follow cleansing with serum, moisturizer and SPF to hydrate skin, nourish with antioxidants, and protect from UV damage. Use gentle circular motions when cleansing and rinse with lukewarm water. Apply products to damp skin for better absorption.