The best facial cleansers for oily skin, according to experts, are specially formulated to control excess oil and prevent acne. They include ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to effectively cleanse and balance the skin.
A good cleanser is crucial to balance your complexion, especially for oily skin. It should not just clean but also control excess oil production. Sebum is a natural oil that protects and hydrates the skin, but an overabundance can result in oily skin, clogged pores, and acne, explains licensed esthetician Ali Tobia. While your genetics play a significant role in sebum production, prolonged stress and certain medications can exacerbate oily skin.
The ideal cleanser for oily skin will cleanse without over-drying, a tricky feat that requires removing excess oil while maintaining moisture. Specifically formulated for oily skin, these cleansers combine clarifying elements with skin-friendly soothers and hydration to leave your skin feeling refreshed and primed for the next steps in your routine. Here, our editors suggest top cleansers for oily skin to help you achieve a balanced complexion.
What to Look for in Facial Cleansers for Oily Skin
- Ingredients Targeted for Oily Skin: According to Joshua Ross, celebrity aesthetician and founder of SkinLab, it’s important to choose a cleanser with ingredients that address excess oil rather than just wash it away. Look for oil-dissolving salicylic acid and naturally antibacterial tea tree oil for effective oil control.
- Foam: Many cleansers for oily skin come in foam formulas, which often contain higher levels of sulfates to better remove oil. However, too much foam can strip and over-dry the skin, potentially triggering more oil production. A low-foam formula is ideal for balancing oil removal and skin hydration.
- Gel Formulas :Ross recommends gel cleansers for oily skin as they effectively remove dirt and oil while being more hydrating than highly foaming cleansers. Gel textures provide a good balance between cleaning strength and moisture retention.
BEST OVERALL:
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
This affordable and potent cleanser comes in sizes ranging from travel-friendly to jumbo, all priced under $20! Dr. Lavanya Krishnan, a certified dermatologist, highly recommends this facial cleanser for individuals with oily skin. Infused with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and oil-regulating niacinamide, it transforms from a gel to a mild foam, effectively removing surplus oil without overdrying the skin. Furthermore, it is free of alcohol, essential oils, and fragrances.
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide｜Texture: Foaming gel｜Size: 8 oz
Skin types:Normal to Oily Skin:
Benefits
- Deep Cleansing: Effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
- Non-Stripping: Maintains the skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing the tight, dry feeling often associated with harsh cleansers.
- Gentle Formula: Can be used daily without causing irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Fragrance-Free: Minimizes the risk of irritation and is suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Trusted by dermatologists
- Fragrance-free
- Refreshes the skin
BEST BUDGET:
La Roche-Posay Foaming Face Wash
This La Roche-Posay cleanser is our top choice for an everyday face wash for oily skin. The mild foam effectively removes excess oil without overly drying the skin, leaving no residue. It is enriched with nourishing and skin barrier-supporting components such as ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide. Esthetician Lara Kaiser notes that its gentle surfactants aid in sebum breakdown and enhance skin readiness for treatment serums. Free of potentially irritating or drying active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, this cleanser is safe for twice-daily use.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramide-3, prebiotic thermal water｜Texture: Gel to foam｜Size: 13.52 oz
Skin Types:Oily skin and Sensitive skin
Benefits
- Deep Cleansing: Effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
- Non-Stripping: Maintains the skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing the tight, dry feeling often associated with harsh cleansers.
- Gentle Formula: Suitable for daily use without causing irritation, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
- Fragrance-Free: Minimizes the risk of irritation and is suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities.
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT:
Dermalogica Precleanse Deep Cleansing Oil Face Cleanser
Dermalogica Precleanse Deep Cleansing Oil Face Cleanser is a unique, oil-based cleanser designed to effectively remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities from the skin. This pre-cleanser is ideal for those looking for a thorough cleansing routine that ensures all traces of dirt and oil are removed before proceeding with their regular cleanser. Dermalogica’s formula is known for being gentle yet highly effective, making it a favorite among skincare enthusiasts.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin E,Waterproof Makeup
prebiotic thermal water｜Texture: Gel to foam｜Size: 13.38 oz
Skin Type:All skin types
Benefits
- Deep Cleansing: Effectively removes makeup, sunscreen, and impurities, preparing the skin for a deeper cleanse.
- Non-Stripping: Maintains the skin’s natural moisture balance, leaving it soft and hydrated.
- Gentle Formula: Suitable for sensitive skin due to its nourishing and calming ingredients.
- Hydrating: Provides essential hydration, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth
BEST HYPOALLERGENIC
Cetaphil Oil Removing Foam Wash
Dr. Krishnan suggests using gentle foaming cleansers for people with oily skin, as the “soap suds” are usually most effective in removing excess oil and dirt. This drugstore classic is her top choice for patients with oily or combination skin, and it’s also suitable for sensitive skin. Additionally, it’s very easy to use, as the pump instantly dispenses foam. The formula includes zinc, a favorite for oily skin, to absorb excess oil and soothe inflammation, while glycerin keeps the skin hydrated without stripping it.
Key Ingredients: Zinc, glycerin | Skin Type: Oily, sensitive and blemish prone | Size: 8 fl oz | Cruelty-Free,NO
Benefits
- Oil Control: Effectively removes excess oil without drying out the skin, helping to maintain a balanced complexion.
- Gentle Cleansing: Cleanses the skin thoroughly without causing irritation, making it suitable for daily use.
- Non-Comedogenic: Won’t clog pores, reducing the risk of acne and breakouts.
- Soothing Formula: Contains ingredients that help to calm and soothe the skin, reducing redness and inflammation
Pros
- Fights inflammation that causes acne
- Hydrates with glycerin
- Gentle on sensitive skin
BEST LIGHT WEIGHT :
COSRX Low pH Morning Gel Cleanser
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is a gentle effective cleanser to maintain the skin’s optimal pH balance. This gel cleanser is ideal for morning use, helping to refresh the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. With a formula that includes soothing and purifying ingredients, it is suitable for all skin types, particularly those with sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Key Ingredients:BHA, Tea tree oil | | Size: 5.07 fl oz, |｜Texture: Gel to foam| Alcohol Free
Skin Types:Sensitive Skin
Benefits
- Maintains pH Balance: With a low pH formula, it helps to maintain the skin’s natural acidity, which is crucial for a healthy skin barrier.
- Gentle Cleansing: Effectively removes impurities and excess oil without stripping the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and hydrated.
- Soothing and Anti-Acne: Contains ingredients like tea tree oil and beta hydroxy acids that help to control acne and soothe inflammation.
Hydrating: Contains ingredients that help to retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated.
Pros
- Moisturizing ingredients
- No stripping formula
- Hypoallergenic
- Gel-to-foam texture
- Lightweight
BEST DERMATOLOGIST-TESTED
EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gentle yet effective cleanser that deeply cleanses the skin without causing irritation. It is formulated to remove makeup, dirt, and oil while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. Known for its foaming action and soothing ingredients, this cleanser is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Key Ingredients:Bromelain (enzymes found in pineapple) | Size:7.fl.oz,|Texture: Oil to foam
Skin Types:Sensitivity,Oily Skin
Benefits
- Deep Cleansing: Effectively removes makeup, dirt, and oil, leaving the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
- Non-Irritating: Gentle formula that cleanses without causing redness or irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Hydrating: Helps to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing dryness and tightness.
- Exfoliating: Contains bromelain, which gently exfoliates dead skin cells, promoting a smoother and clearer complexion.
- Soothing: Contains ingredients that help to calm and soothe the skin, reducing inflammation and redness.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Pump-dispenser bottle
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologically-tested
BEST SPLURGE:
Is Clinical Cleansing Complex
iS Clinical Cleansing Complex is a luxurious and effective cleanser designed to cleanse the skin thoroughly while providing multiple benefits for various skin types. This product is formulated with gentle yet powerful ingredients that help to remove impurities, makeup, and excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. It’s known for its advanced formula and effectiveness in improving overall skin health.
Active Ingredients: White willow bark extract, chamomile flower extract, centella asiatica leaf extract｜Texture: Liquid｜Size: 6 oz
Skin Types :Combination
Benefits
- Deep Cleansing: Effectively removes dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities without causing irritation.
- Exfoliating: Contains salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and promote a clearer complexion.
- Balancing: Helps to balance the skin’s pH and maintain its natural moisture barrier.
- Soothing: Contains soothing ingredients like chamomile extract to calm and comfort the skin.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and redness, making it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin.
Pros
- Weightless
- Clean ingredients
- Boosts radiance
- Soothing scent
- Delays premature aging signs
BEST FOR OILY SKIN AND ACNE:
Naturium Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser
Naturium Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser is formulated to treat and prevent acne while cleansing the skin. Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known ingredient for its effectiveness in targeting acne-causing bacteria and reducing excess oil production. This cleanser aims to provide a deep cleanse without over-drying the skin, making it suitable for those with acne-prone skin.
Active Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide｜Texture: Cream｜Size: 5 oz
Skin Types:Acne-Prone Skin
Benefits
- Acne Treatment: Contains benzoyl peroxide to effectively treat acne by targeting bacteria and reducing excess oil.
- Deep Cleansing: Cleanses the skin thoroughly to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that can contribute to acne.
- Non-Drying: Formulated to minimize dryness and irritation often associated with acne treatments, thanks to hydrating ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera.
- Soothing: Aloe vera and allantoin help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and redness.
Pros
- Gentle Blemish Treatment
- Clean ingredients
- Gentle Formula
- Cruelty Free
BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN:
First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face
Kaiser considers this an excellent choice for oily skin since the clay can extract excess oil from pores without depleting moisture, unlike a typical clay mask. The red clay is mixed in a gel base, resulting in a stunning jewel-toned hue. Along with clearing pores and soaking up oil, the antibacterial rosemary leaf oil aids in diminishing and avoiding blemishes.
Key Ingredients: Red clay, glycerin, rosemary leaf oil｜Texture: Gel/clay｜Size: 4.7 oz
Skin Types: All skin types
Benefits
Skin Cleansing: Effectively removes dirt, oil,the skin
Soothing: Contains calming ingredients like aloe vera and allantoin to soothe and nourish the skin.
Hydrating: Helps to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing dryness.
Fragrance-Free: Suitable for sensitive skin as it does not contain added fragrances that can irritate the skin.
Pros
- Talc-free
- Gently cleanses the skin
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- pH-balanced
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I look for in a facial cleanser for oily skin?
- Key Ingredients: Look for cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or clay, which help to exfoliate, control oil production, and unclog pores.
- Non-Comedogenic: Ensure the product won’t clog pores, which can exacerbate oily skin issues.
- Balance: Opt for formulas that balance oil without over-drying the skin.
How often should I cleanse oily skin?
- Twice a day: Cleansing in the morning and evening helps to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier.
Can oily skin benefit from oil-based cleansers?
- Yes: Oil-based cleansers can effectively dissolve excess oil and impurities without stripping the skin, provided they are formulated to be non-comedogenic.
Is it better to use foaming or gel-based cleansers for oily skin?
- Foaming Cleansers: These are generally recommended as they effectively remove excess oil and impurities without leaving residue.
- Gel Cleansers: Also suitable for their thorough cleansing properties while being gentle on the skin.
Should I follow up with a toner after cleansing oily skin?
- Yes: A toner with ingredients like witch hazel or salicylic acid can help further control oil production and tighten pores.
