Dry skin can feel tight, itchy, and uncomfortable. Using the right face wash is important to cleanse skin gently while providing much-needed hydration. Here are the top 15 face washes for dry skin available in the U.S.
The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a top choice for dry skin. It gently cleanses without stripping moisture thanks to its unique formula containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin. Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds moisture to the skin, while ceramides restore the skin’s protective barrier. Glycerin acts as a humectant to pull in and retain moisture. This cleanser does not lather or foam, making it extra gentle. It rinses cleanly without leaving behind any residue. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. Dermatologist-developed, this cleanser is ideal for daily use by those with dry skin.
The Cetaphil Cream to Foam Face Wash transforms from a soothing cream to a rich, hydrating foam that gently cleanses dry, sensitive skin. The formula contains hydrating and calming prebiotic aloe to moisturize as it cleans. It rinses clean without stripping the skin of natural moisture, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth. The cleanser is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, making it a great choice even for very sensitive skin. It has been clinically shown to keep skin hydrated for up to 24 hours. The creamy lathering texture is luxurious yet gentle.
The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a dermatologist-recommended cleanser designed for dry, sensitive skin. It has an ultra-gentle formula that cleans without stripping moisture, leaving skin feeling soft and soothed. The cleanser contains skin conditioners that hydrate as it cleans. It does not lather or foam, making it suitable even for very sensitive complexions. The formula is fragrance-free, soap-free, and non-irritating. It rinses clean and does not leave any residue behind. Clinically proven suitable for sensitive skin, this Cetaphil cleanser is a gentle yet effective option ideal for daily cleansing of dry skin.
The Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Face Cleanser is a nourishing milky cleanser formulated for dry, sensitive skin. It contains colloidal oatmeal and feverfew, natural ingredients known for their soothing and calming properties. This gentle cleanser helps preserve the skin’s moisture barrier as it lifts away impurities, leaving skin feeling clean, soft and comforted. The creamy texture does not lather or foam, making it ideal for sensitive complexions. It rinses clean without any sticky residue. Dermatologist tested and fragrance-free, this Aveeno cleanser nourishes dry skin while gently cleansing.
The Bioré Hydrate & Glow Gentle Face Wash is a hydrating cleanser designed for dry, sensitive skin. It has a soothing gel formula that gently cleanses without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture balance. The formula is free of sulfates, fragrances, parabens, and phthalates making it suitable for even sensitive complexions. It has been dermatologist tested and found to be hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. The cleanser leaves skin feeling supple and refreshed with a healthy-looking glow. It rinses clean without any greasy residue. For those with dry, sensitive skin seeking a gentle yet effective cleanser that hydrates and brightens, this Bioré face wash is an excellent option.
The Paula’s Choice RESIST Hydrating Cleanser is a nourishing, anti-aging face wash ideal for dry skin. It has a rich, creamy gel texture that gently cleanses without drying out the skin. Formulated with antioxidant green tea and soothing chamomile, it helps brighten skin while calming irritation. The cleanser rinses completely clean, leaving skin looking radiant. It effectively removes impurities, makeup, and sunscreen without disrupting the skin’s protective moisture barrier. The formula is fragrance-free and soap-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin. This Paula’s Choice cleanser hydrates and rejuvenates dry skin with each use.
The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Face Cleanser is an outstanding choice for dry skin. It gently foams to lift away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping moisture. The formula contains hyaluronic acid, a compound that attracts and binds water to the skin for intense, long-lasting hydration. This cleanser feels refreshing on the skin and rinses clean without residue. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Clinically proven to boost hydration, this dermatologist-recommended cleanser leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and quenched. The Hydro Boost line from Neutrogena is excellent for dry skin, and this cleanser delivers exceptional hydrating results.
The THAYERS pH Balancing Daily Cleanser is a gentle, nourishing formula ideal for dry skin. It contains aloe vera, a soothing plant extract that hydrates and calms skin. This cleanser helps balance the skin’s pH while lifting away impurities. The lightweight gel lathers very little, making it perfect for dry complexions. It rinses clean without leaving behind any greasy residue. Free of harsh ingredients like parabens, dyes and fragrances, it is suitable for sensitive skin as well. THAYERS products are vegan and cruelty-free. With its skin-loving ingredients and lightweight texture, this daily cleanser leaves dry skin feeling fresh, clean and comfortable.
The Curel Foaming Daily Face Wash deeply hydrates and cleanses dry, sensitive skin. It has a rich, creamy formula containing ceramide and glycerin to replenish moisture as it gently removes dirt and oil. This cleanser foams lightly but does not strip the skin. It rinses clean and leaves skin feeling silky smooth. The formula has an ideal pH balance and is free of fragrances, making it suitable for easily irritated complexions. Dermatologist tested, this Curel cleanser provides soothing relief for dryness while cleansing effectively and gently. It is an excellent choice for a daily face wash to treat dry, delicate skin.
The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser is an energizing face wash that hydrates while gently cleansing. It is made with rice water, which is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that brighten and improve skin tone. The lush foaming lather effortlessly dissolves makeup, dirt and oils without over-drying. It has a light citrus scent that energizes the senses. Suitable for all skin types, this cleanser leaves skin looking radiant and hydrated. The Face Shop is a Korean skincare brand that uses natural ingredients. Their products are vegan, cruelty-free and ideal for dry, sensitive skin in need of gentle cleansing and nourishment.
While designed for oily skin, the Paula’s Choice RESIST Foaming Cleanser is gentle enough for dry, mature skin needing an effective but non-drying cleanse. It foams away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping moisture, thanks to skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe. This cleanser unclogs pores while combating the signs of aging with antioxidants and cell-communicating ingredients. It rinses clean without leaving residue or tightness. The formula is free of perfumes and dyes, making it suitable for sensitive complexions. For dry skin needing a deep clean, this balancing foaming cleanser delivers without compromising hydration.
The NIVEA Milk Delights Honey Face Wash is an ultra-hydrating, milky cleanser ideal for dry, sensitive skin. It contains real honey extract, which deeply nourishes while gently removing impurities. Enriched with skin-softening almond oil and NIVEA’s hydra IQ technology, it cleanses without depleting natural moisture. This cleanser leaves skin looking fresh and radiant. It has a light, uplifting honey scent that energizes the senses. Dermatologically tested, this NIVEA cleanser is suitable for sensitive and very dry complexions needing gentle yet effective cleansing combined with intense moisturization.
While designed for oily skin, the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is mild enough for dry skin needing an invigorating cleanse. It lathers away dirt and oils without disrupting the skin’s protective barrier. The formula contains hydrating hyaluronic acid, nourishing ceramides and brightening niacinamide. This cleanser removes impurities without leaving skin feeling dry or tight. It rinses clean without any greasy residue. Fragrance and oil free, it won’t irritate sensitive skin. Dermatologist developed, this CeraVe cleanser energizes dry skin while respecting its delicate moisture balance.
The Cetaphil Redness Relieving Foaming Face Wash is a gentle cleanser that calms irritated, dry sensitive skin as it cleanses. Formulated with vitamin B5, this milky foam soothes skin and visibly reduces redness caused by dryness. The creamy lather lifts away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping moisture from the skin. It rinses completely clean without leaving any residue. Dermatologist tested and fragrance-free, it is safe for even highly sensitive complexions. Regular use of this soothing Cetaphil cleanser keeps dry skin hydrated and comfortable while combating redness and irritation.
Native Coconut & Vanilla Moisturizing Face Wash is a nourishing cleanser that hydrates dry skin as it gently cleanses. Formulated with coconut, jojoba and vanilla, it foams lightly to lift impurities without stripping the skin. Native cleansers are pH balanced and free of sulfates, parabens and phthalates. The coconut and vanilla scent is uplifting yet gentle. This daily cleanser leaves dry skin feeling soft, smooth and refreshed without tightness or dryness. Native skincare products are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. For a cleanser that hydrates while gently cleansing sensitive skin, Native’s moisturizing face wash is a great choice.
Product | Key Feature 1 | Key Feature 2 |
---|---|---|
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides | Fragrance-free |
Cetaphil Cream to Foam Face Wash | Prebiotic aloe | Hypoallergenic |
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser | Hydrates as it cleanses | Fragrance-free |
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Cleanser | Soothing oat | Fragrance-free |
Bioré Hydrating Face Wash | Hyaluronic acid | Fragrance-free |
Paula’s Choice RESIST Cleanser | Green tea, chamomile | Fragrance-free |
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser | Hyaluronic acid | Non-comedogenic |
Thayers Daily Cleanser | Aloe vera | Fragrance-free |
Curel Daily Face Wash | Ceramides, glycerin | pH balanced |
The Face Shop Rice Water Cleanser | Rice water | Citrus scent |
Paula’s Choice Foaming Cleanser | Hyaluronic acid, aloe | Fragrance-free |
NIVEA Honey Face Wash | Honey extract | Fragrance |
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser | Ceramides, niacinamide | Fragrance-free |
Cetaphil Redness Relieving Cleanser | Vitamin B5 | Fragrance-free |
Native Moisturizing Face Wash | Coconut, vanilla | Cruelty-free |
When choosing a face wash for dry skin, look for formulas that clean gently without stripping natural moisture. Avoid foaming cleansers with sulfates which can be overly drying. Instead, look for creamy, milky or gel-based cleansers which tend to be more hydrating.
Seeking out moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, honey and plant oils can provide additional hydration. Stay away from fragrances and dyes which can sometimes irritate sensitive skin. Aim for cleansers with a neutral or slightly acidic pH, around 5.5, as this matches the skin’s natural pH.
Take note of how your skin feels after cleansing. The skin should not feel tight or squeaky clean. It should feel soft, smooth and comfortable. If your face feels dry or tight after washing, opt for a more hydrating cleanser. Your cleanser should leave skin feeling clean yet nourished.
There are a few main types of face washes that work well for dry, sensitive skin:
Creamy cleansers provide nourishing hydration as they cleanse. Look for formulas with ceramides, glycerin, plant oils and other moisturizing ingredients. Cream cleansers gently melt away dirt and makeup without stripping the skin.
Gel cleansers are lightweight and refreshing. Many contain humectants like hyaluronic acid to attract moisture to the skin. The gel texture lathers minimally for a gentle cleanse.
Milky cleansers have a smooth, creamy texture that gently cleanses while adding hydration. Some milky cleansers contain skin-soothing ingredients like oats, aloe and chamomile.
Plant-based oils gently dissolve impurities without disturbing the skin’s moisture barrier. They rinse clean without leaving an oily residue. Massage gently onto dry skin as the first step of a double cleanse.
Balms have a velvety, balm-like texture that turns to an oil when massaged into skin. Rinse thoroughly before following with a water-based cleanser. Ideal for dry complexions.
In addition to choosing the right cleanser, follow these tips for keeping dry skin happy and hydrated:
A. Some of the best face washes for dry skin include CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cleanser, Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Cleanser, Curel Daily Face Wash, and Paula’s Choice RESIST Hydrating Cleanser. The best face washes for dry skin contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, aloe vera, and oils. They cleanse gently without stripping moisture from the skin. Creamy, gel, or milky cleansers tend to work better than foaming cleansers for dry skin.
A. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cleanser is one of the best Neutrogena face washes for dry skin. It contains hyaluronic acid to boost and lock in hydration. The gel formula cleans without over-drying. It is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and gentle enough for sensitive skin. The Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is another excellent option. It has a creamy formula with glycerin and soybean oil to cleanse while softening dry skin.
A. Some top choices for a face wash for dry, acne-prone skin include Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Wash, Paula’s Choice SKIN BALANCING Oil-Reducing Cleanser, and CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser. You want a cleanser with gentle cleansing agents that won’t strip moisture but will remove dirt, oil and bacteria. Avoid harsh scrubs. Seek hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide which also helps treat acne.
A. For men with dry, acne-prone skin, some good face wash options include CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Face Wash, Paula’s Choice SKIN BALANCING Oil-Reducing Cleanser, and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Face Wash. These contain acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to clear pimples, along with hydrators like glycerin to prevent dryness. Using an acne spot treatment can also help get rid of pimples faster. Always moisturize after cleansing to prevent dryness.
A. Some of the best face washes for very dry, sensitive skin include Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser, Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser, Aveeno Ultra Calming Hydrating Gel Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser, and La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser. Look for fragrance-free cleansers without harsh soaps or surfactants. Creamy formulas with skin-nourishing ceramides, fatty acids and glycerin are ideal for very dry skin.
A. Foaming cleansers often contain sulfates which can strip natural moisture from dry skin. It’s best to avoid foaming cleansers and opt for a more hydrating milk, cream, oil or gel-based cleanser instead. However, some foaming cleansers are formulated gently enough for dry, sensitive skin – just be sure to read reviews first.
A. Cleanse just once or twice daily. Over-cleansing can deplete the natural oils that dry skin needs. Always follow cleansing with a hydrating toner and moisturizer.
A. Lukewarm water is best. Hot water can strip hydration from the skin, while cold water closes pores and prevents effective cleansing. Use lukewarm water for the most comfortable and hydrating cleanse.
A. Yes, you can exfoliate but be very gentle. Use a soft scrub or chemical exfoliant no more than 2-3 times per week. Harsh scrubs can cause irritation. Always moisturize after.
A. Yes, oil cleansers are an excellent choice for dry skin. Plant oils gently melt away impurities without disrupting moisture. Follow an oil cleanse with a secondary cleanser. Limit oil cleansing to once per day.
A. Seek hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, aloe vera, honey, oils like jojoba or coconut, shea butter and oatmeal. Avoid sulfates and fragrances which can irritate.
Choosing a gentle, hydrating cleanser is crucial for dry, sensitive skin. Look for moisturizing formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and plant oils to cleanse without stripping moisture. Avoid foaming cleansers with harsh sulfates. Aim for cream, gel, milk or oil-based cleansers. With the proper face wash, dry skin can feel fresh, clean and comfortable. The cleansers reviewed above provide varying formulas of exceptional quality to meet the needs of dry skin. With its ideal blend of effective cleansing and nourishing hydration, the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser stands out as the top choice.
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