Combination skin can be tricky to manage. The T-zone tends to be oily, while the cheeks are dry and sensitive. Finding the right cleanser is crucial for keeping combination skin balanced and healthy. The wrong formula can strip moisture from dry areas or leave oil untouched.
After extensive research, testing, and reviews, we’ve selected the 15 best cleansers for combination skin available in the US. These gentle, non-irritating cleansers effortlessly remove dirt, oil, and makeup without over-drying. They leave skin feeling soft, smooth, and comfortable. Keep reading to discover which cleanser is right for your combination skin needs.
Cetaphil’s iconic daily cleanser gently removes impurities without disturbing skin’s protective barrier. The soap-free, fragrance-free formula contains skin-soothing ingredients like aloe vera and allantoin. It foams up lightly to lift away dirt, makeup, and excess oil without stripping moisture from dry areas. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, it rinses clean without leaving any greasy residue behind. The generous 20 oz bottle lasts a long time, making it a great value.
Neutrogena’s innovative gel cleanser conditions as it cleanses for healthy, balanced skin. The soap-free formula contains 2% PHA, a gentle exfoliant that smooths and softens without irritation often caused by harsh scrubs. Skin-nourishing vitamin E, glycerin, and pro vitamin B5 hydrate as the gel lifts away impurities, preventing over-drying. It rinses clean without residue, leaving skin purified but not stripped of natural moisture.
CeraVe’s foaming cleanser whisks away dirt and oil with a rich, creamy lather. The soap-free formula contains three essential ceramides to restore skin’s protective barrier. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture while niacinamide calms inflammation. This non-irritating cleanser foams up to dissolve impurities and sweep away excess oil without stripping moisture from dry areas. It rinses clean, leaving skin feeling fresh and comfortable.
This refreshing gel cleanser from natural outcome balances combination skin with antioxidant-rich botanicals. Green tea extract soothes and protects, while acai berry nourishes and hydrates. The soap-free formula turns into a light lather that removes impurities without drying skin. It rinses clean and leaves no greasy residue.
Biore’s balancing cleanser contains special pore-targeting micro-crystals to draw out and absorb excess oil without over-drying. The gentle formula maintains skin’s pH balance as it dissolves pore-clogging impurities. Natural clay absorbs excess shine, while skin-soothing aloe keeps moisture intact. This soap-free cleanser foams up gently to thoroughly cleanse without stripping skin of natural oils.
Paula’s Choice foaming cleanser nourishes skin as it cleanses with anti-aging ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, antioxidants, and niacinamide. The soap-free formula transforms into a rich, creamy foam that gently whisks away dirt, oil, and impurities without drying. Skin feels soft and comfortable after rinsing with no greasy residue remaining. The light tropical scent energizes the senses.
CeraVe’s hydrating cleanser gently cleanses without disrupting the skin’s protective barrier. The non-foaming gel formula contains 3 essential ceramides along with hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture. Skin-soothing ingredients like glycerin and amino acids cleanse while helping to restore a healthy moisture balance. This soap-free formula rinses clean without residue, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed.
Neutrogena’s refreshing gel cleanser provides pure hydration for combination skin. The soap-free, oil-free formula contains hyaluronic acid that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Skin-conditioning glycerin prevents moisture loss during cleansing. This cleanser gently removes impurities and makeup without stripping skin’s natural moisture. The refreshing gel leaves skin feeling clean, smooth, and hydrated.
Neutrogena’s fragrance-free foaming cleanser provides a gentle cleanse for even the most sensitive skin. The soap-free formula contains skin conditioners like glycerin and pro vitamin B5 to hydrate as it cleanses, preventing over-drying. It foams up into a rich lather that lifts away impurities, leaving skin clean, soft, and balanced. The cleanser is dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic.
Youth to the People’s antioxidant-rich cleanser nourishes as it cleanses with nourishing botanicals like kale, spinach, green tea, and chamomile. The soap-free formula gently removes dirt, makeup, and impurities without stripping moisture. Cold-pressed antioxidants and hydrators like jojoba oil and aloe keep skin balanced. This cleanser is vegan, cruelty-free, and suited for all skin types including combination.
[Be the Skin]’s BHA cleansing foam controls excess oil and refines pores to balance combination skin. Salicylic acid (BHA) gently exfoliates to eliminate pore-clogging buildup. Devil’s claw extract helps visibly minimize the look of enlarged pores while providing an exceptionally gentle cleanse. The nourishing, low-pH formula leaves skin feeling fresh and comfortable, not stripped.
Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost cleanser quenches thirsty skin with long-lasting hydration. The soap-free formula contains hyaluronic acid, a molecule that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This locks moisture into the skin and continues hydrating throughout the day. The oil-free gel transforms into a creamy foam that gently cleanses away impurities and makeup. Skin feels clean, smooth, and supple after rinsing.
Mario Badescu’s acne cleanser purifies congested combination skin with salicylic acid. This natural exfoliant dissolves pore-clogging oil and cellular buildup that can lead to breakouts. Soothing aloe vera prevents over-drying while olive oil-free formula removes excess sebum. Your complexion is left balanced, clean, and shine-free.
Clinique’s micellar milk instantly dissolves dirt, oil and makeup in one simple step. The milky formula turns to an oil on contact with skin to swiftly sweep away impurities. Skin-conditioning ingredients like probiotics help strengthen skin’s moisture barrier during cleansing. No harsh rubbing or rinsing required. This allergy-tested cleanser leaves combination skin balanced and touchably soft.
Image Skincare’s CLEAR CELL cleanser combines salicylic and glycolic acid to remove pore-clogging impurities and excess oil from congested skin. Botanical extracts like aloe vera, chamomile, and peppermint provide a soothing presence. This refreshing gel transforms into a light foam that dissolves debris, clears pores, and balances combination skin without irritation.
Cleanser | Key Ingredients | Scent |
---|---|---|
Cetaphil Daily Cleanser | Aloe vera, allantoin | Fragrance-free |
Neutrogena Skin Balancing Cleanser | PHAs, Vitamin E | Fragrance-free |
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser | Ceramides, niacinamide | Fragrance-free |
natural outcome True Balance Cleanser | Green tea, acai berry | Herbal |
Biore Balancing Cleanser | Aloe vera, micro-crystals | Light citrus |
Paula’s Choice Balanced Cleanser | Hyaluronic acid, aloe | Tropical fruit |
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser | Ceramides, hyaluronic acid | Fragrance-free |
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser | Hyaluronic acid, glycerin | Fragrance-free |
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Cleanser | Glycerin, pro vitamin B5 | Fragrance-free |
Youth to the People Cleanser | Kale, green tea | Herbal |
[Be the Skin] Pore Zero Cleanser | Salicylic acid, devil’s claw | Fragrance-free |
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cleanser | Hyaluronic acid, glycerin | Fragrance-free |
Mario Badescu Acne Cleanser | Salicylic acid, aloe vera | Herbal |
Clinique All About Clean | Probiotics, micelles | Fragrance-free |
Image Skincare CLEAR CELL Cleanser | Salicylic acid, peppermint | Mint |
Choosing an effective yet non-irritating cleanser is crucial for keeping combination skin in balance. Here are a few tips for selecting the best cleanser for your needs:
Choosing a cleanser formulated to gently cleanse oily zones while nourishing dry areas is key to keeping combination skin balanced and healthy.
There are a few main types of cleansers well-suited for effectively yet gently cleansing combination skin. Here’s an overview of the top cleanser formulas:
Gel cleansers offer an oil-free deep cleanse that thoroughly removes impurities without drying skin. They provide refreshing hydration thanks to ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Gel cleansers are ideal for normal to oily and combination skin types.
Foaming cleansers produce a rich, creamy lather that lifts away dirt, oil, and makeup. The airy foam dissolves impurities without compromising moisture. Foams are ideal for thoroughly cleansing oily areas on combination skin.
Creamy cleansers gently melt away makeup and impurities without drying skin. The creamy base keeps moisture intact on dry zones during cleansing. Creams offer very gentle yet effective cleansing for sensitive, combination skin.
Micellar waters contain tiny micelles that grab onto dirt, oil, and makeup to cleanse skin without harsh rubbing. The no-rinse formulas maintain moisture for combination skin.
Milky cleansers dissolve impurities and makeup with a quick one-step application. The milky consistency maintains moisture for sensitive, combination skin types. No rinsing required.
Cleansing balms and oils whisk away stubborn makeup and deeply cleanse pores while retaining natural moisture. They thoroughly cleanse combination skin without feeling stripping or drying.
Caring for combination skin requires balancing the needs of dry and oily zones. Here are some top tips for keeping combination skin looking balanced and healthy:
With the right balance of hydration and oil control, combination skin can look beautiful and balanced.
Based on our research and testing, the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is an excellent option for combination skin. It contains ceramides to restore the skin’s protective barrier along with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid for added hydration. The creamy foam whisks away excess oil from the T-zone while maintaining moisture on the cheeks. It rinses clean without dryness or tightness. The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is also a great choice for its non-foaming gel formula that hydates as it cleanses.
Gel and foaming cleansers tend to work best for combination skin. Gel cleansers provide an oil-free cleanse that removes impurities without over-drying. Foaming cleansers produce a rich lather that dissolves oil and makeup without stripping moisture from dry areas. Creams and milks also cleanse effectively while maintaining hydration. Avoid harsh scrubs or soap-based cleansers which can exacerbate dryness. Look for formulas containing skin-soothing and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and ceramides.
When choosing a cleanser for combination skin, look for gel or foaming formulas that will gently yet thoroughly cleanse oily areas without drying out the cheeks. Avoid harsh scrubs or soaps. Seek out hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and skin-soothing botanicals. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free cleansers are best to prevent clogged pores and irritation. Read reviews to determine how well a cleanser balances and hydrates combination skin types.
It’s not necessary to use two different cleansers. Look for a gentle, balanced cleanser made specifically for combination skin instead. The right formula will lift away oil and impurities from the t-zone without compromising moisture on the cheeks. Using one quality cleanser for combination skin is more effective and convenient than using two separate products.
Some beneficial ingredients to look for in cleansers for combination skin include: hyaluronic acid for hydration; glycerin to attract moisture; ceramides to repair the skin barrier; salicylic acid to keep pores clear; aloe vera, green tea, chamomile to soothe skin; and niacinamide to calm redness and inflammation. Avoid harsh alcohols, fragrances, and soap-based cleansers.
Twice a day, morning and evening, is ideal for keeping combination skin balanced. Cleansing morning and night helps remove pore-clogging impurities, excess oil, dead skin cells, and other debris that can lead to breakouts over time.
Using two separate cleansers is not necessary. Look for a gentle, balanced cleanser formulated for combination skin instead. The right combo cleanser will effectively yet gently cleanse the oily T-zone without over drying the cheeks.
Water alone does not effectively dissolve and remove oil, makeup, sunscreen, and impurities from pores.Using a proper facial cleanser formulated for combination skin is important for thorough cleansing.
Toners are optional for combination skin. They can help remove traces of cleanser and oil while adding a layer of hydration. Look for an alcohol-free toner containing ingredients like witch hazel or rosewater to balance and hydrate.
Gentle exfoliation 2-3 times per week can help keep pores clear on oily areas and remove dead skin cells. Use scrubs with soft, round beads or chemical exfoliants like lactic acid. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate.
Keeping combination skin properly cleansed, balanced, and hydrated is key to maintaining a radiant, healthy-looking complexion. Consistently using high-quality cleansers and care products formulated for combination skin is the best place to start your routine.
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