Which cleanser is best for sensitive skin

When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

• Using a facial cleanser twice daily is recommended, and you want a gentle one for sensitive skin.
• We spoke to dermatologists about face wash ingredients and their use across different skin types.
• Below, see our top picks from brands like CeraVe, Aveeno, Youth to the People, and more.

If you're strict about your skincare routine, you know firsthand that a cleanser is a non-negotiable starter before applying your eye creams, toners, moisturizers, and others. It's the first product that wakes you up and replenishes your skin, and the first product later in the day for your nighttime skincare routine.

But, let's start with the basics — what really makes sensitive skin, well, sensitive? According to NYC-based, board-certified dermatologist Marina Peredo, MD, it's a broad term that can mean any of the following:

• Having sensitivities to skincare products
• Having skin conditions, like acne, eczema, or rosacea
• Being exposed to the sun, wind, or pollution 

That said, you should stick to hydrating, fragrance-free cleansers if you relate to any of the effects listed above, according to Joshua Zeichner, MD, an NYC-based, board-certified dermatologist.

For more on facial cleanser use and efficacy, we created a detailed FAQ below. Read on to learn about the best facial cleansers for sensitive skin, with guidance from our two dermatologist experts, thorough research, and some testing notes, too.

Here are the best facial cleansers for sensitive skin in 2021:

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a brand known for combatting the effects of sensitive skin and contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin.

Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides

When I went to a dermatologist in middle school after suffering for months with dry skin, my doctor suggested the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Now, after using it for almost 10 years, I understand why.

It's formulated with hyaluronic acid, an ingredient Dr. Peredo and Dr. Zeichner recommends dry and sensitive skin, to instantly nourish rougher areas, like near your ears and on the crease of your chin. The dermatologist-curated formula includes glycerin to help hydrate the skin without stripping moisture away, too.

Because it's non-foaming, the lotion-like consistency adds to the overall hydration. It's also fragrance- and paraben-free, non-comedogenic (doesn't clog pores), and even certified by the National Eczema Association.

After using this cleanser for so long, it hasn't led to any breakouts, as is the case when I switch to some other brands. It has a firm gel formula that, when activated with water, is truly a miracle on skin that needs an extra boost. And, it's made of simple ingredients that undoubtedly deem it my all-time favorite cleanser to use daily.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil's Gentle Skin Cleanser is a staple in many medicine cabinets because you can cleanse, soften, and soothe without worrying about a long list of ingredients.

Key ingredients: Water, glycerin, cetyl alcohol

The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser lives up to its name in that it's notably gentle with only eight ingredients, its main one being water. It's great for use on all skin types, has a mild and non-irritating formula, and will soften your skin for a healthy glow.

Cetaphil also won't clog your pores, thanks to its non-comedogenic and non-alkaline formula. It's also fragrance- and soap-free, too, so it's almost like using pure water and lotion mixed together.

Tula Replenishing Cleansing Oil

If you want to save money and time when soothing your skin at night, Tula's Replenishing Cleansing Oil will remove all traces of makeup and cleanse for a fresh face.

Key ingredients: Ceramides, probiotic extracts, rice bran oil, arctic winged kelp

If I had to pick a least favorite skincare product, it would undoubtedly be makeup remover. From wipes that dry out to formulas that strip the skin or cost more than face makeup itself, neglecting to remove makeup the proper way can clog pores and cause acne. Thanks to the Tula Replenishing Cleansing Oil, you can finally add a product to your routine that removes makeup and cleanses. 

Infused with probiotic extracts and natural oils, the product will effectively dissolve makeup and built-on debris from the day. The mixture of ceramides and arctic winged kelp (yes, algae) aids in moisture retention and skin-soothing, too.

What's more, the Replenishing Cleansing Oil was clinically tested, with 94% of participants noticing it left their skin feeling nourished. As a cleanser that's suitable for all skin types, non-comedogenic, and is formulated without parabens or fragrance, it's a product boasting a hassle-free makeup removal — whether you're about to apply a face mask or hit the hay for the next day.

Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

If you're looking for a soy-based cleanser and makeup remover that's pH-balanced and comes in a mini size for travel, the Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash is a must-buy.

Key ingredients: Soy, cucumber, rosewater, borage seed oil

The Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash is one of the most remarkable in this list because of its makeup remover functionality and pH-balancing properties. According to a 2018 article published in Karger, balanced pH in skincare can minimize skin irritation from contaminants like allergens, bacteria, and pollutants.

It's recommended for all skin types and is rich in soy amino acids to help maintain skin elasticity. Calming cucumber extract and borage seed oil help soothe the skin, while the rosewater helps to balance and calm the skin.

If this cleanser doesn't already sound like a dream, you'll appreciate that it was clinically tested for four weeks, with all 29 participants reported it thoroughly removed makeup, with more than 90% saying their skin was more soft and supple.

The Fresh wash doesn't strip your skin either and is formulated vegan and void of gluten and parabens. And, with it targeting dull, dry, and uneven textures, you'll notice vivacious skin before you know it.

Farmacy Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser

If you have oily skin and think applying a liquid would be the next worst thing, Farmacy's Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser is just the right product that's oil-free and doesn't strip the skin.

Key ingredients: Beta hydroxy, glycerin, moringa seed extract, moringa water, papaya enzyme, green clay, sodium PCA

The Farmacy Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser is wonderful for oily skin and not just because it's oil-free — it's also soap-free, super creamy, and uniquely contains moringa seed extract and moringa water to purify and refresh the skin from debris.

Aside from moringa, you'll notice the papaya enzyme and green clay ingredients that help detox, absorb surface oil, exfoliate, clean pores, and remove buildup. Sodium PCA also aids in maintaining skin hydration. 

"For oily skin, I recommend using a face wash with beta hydroxy acid because they reduce oil production by working on the skin's surface to penetrate deep into pores," Dr. Peredo said. "You can also use exfoliating cleansers to reduce oil."

Even if you don't have oily skin, this cleanser is great to use after a long day outside. It's also cruelty-free, gluten-free, and comes in recyclable packaging.

Natrium Niacinamide Cleansing Gel 3%

If you're hoping for a product to finally remedy your dry skin, Naturium's Niacinamide Cleansing Gel 3% is an affordable and effective option.

Key ingredients: Glycerin, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

Sensitive skin is one thing, but sensitive and dry skin is another. Not only are most products off-limits, ingredient-wise, but it can be difficult to find a product that will specifically work well for your target areas. Enter the Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gel 3% — a vegan pore-minimizer that contains both glycerin and niacinamide to effectively replenish your skin's surface.

"For dry skin, a face wash with glycerin, ceramides, or niacinamide can help to repair or protect the skin against environmental stressors," Dr. Peredo said. "Niacinamide helps to restore your skin's barrier, while glycerin is rich in nutrients and a humectant that draws water back into the skin for ultimate hydration."

Wonderfully enough, this cleanser isn't foaming, which can be more dryer on your skin, according to Dr. Zeichner. Natrium is cruelty-, gluten-, and paraben-free — and dermatologist-tested — to ensure you have clean, nourished relief.

It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cleanser

If your skin is dry one day and oily the next (or a mixture of both), the It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cleanser is a great daily wash.

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, collagen, ceramides, colloidal oatmeal

We've mentioned many ingredients throughout this guide, but the It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cleanser was undoubtedly curated with a careful eye to effectively work on dry and oily skin conditions. First, it contains hyaluronic acid, which is dermatologist-recommended as a key hydrator in skincare. Second, it contains glycerin and niacinamide, both of which Dr. Peredo recommended for oily skin.

The cleanser was developed with the help of plastic surgeons and even ophthalmologist-tested for your sensitive eye area. It will remove all traces of makeup, even waterproof, and contains key ingredients benefitting mature skin types, too: collagen, ceramides, and colloidal oatmeal.

What's more, in a clinical study by It Cosmetics, all participants showed improved hydration and said their skin felt completely clean. More than 80% noticed an immediate skin-softening effect and a rejuvenated look and feel, too. The brand's skincare line is also one of our favorites in our best eye creams and serums guide.

CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser

If you're on the hunt for a cleanser that works well on uneven skin, the CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser is specially formulated for sensitive skin and will leave your skin feeling fresh.

Key ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide, glycerin, ceramides, niacinamide

If you have acne, you want a daily cleanser that isn't harsh on your skin, fit for everyday use, and most importantly, won't cause more patches of breakouts. The Cerave Acne Foaming Cleanser is specifically formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin alike — thanks to benzoyl peroxide — plus, was developed by dermatologists.

"For acne-prone skin, I recommend using a face wash that contains benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids to help combat acne," Dr. Peredo said. "Benzoyl peroxide helps prevent further breakouts and treats mild to moderate acne by killing bacteria under the skin."

Wonderfully, the CeraVe cleanser instantly dissolves dirt and oil without stripping the skin of its moisture, therefore helping to protect its natural skin barrier. It's similar to the brand's Hydrating Facial Cleanser — also in this roundup — and after almost 10 years of testing, this one is fit for sensitive skin, with a twist to help treat breakouts.

Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser

You need a non-comedogenic cleanser to dwindle the appearance of pores, and the Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser fits the bill, plus contains green ingredients to give your skin a healthy glow.

Key ingredients: Glycerin, kale, spinach, green tea

Though the Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser doesn't contain hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or ceramides, it's a powerful blend of all the healthful green ingredients with overarching health benefits: kale to give your skin an extra glow, spinach to soothe the skin, and green tea to fight visible signs of aging.

I've been using this cleanser for about two months now and, though I swear by the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, was immediately impressed by how silky smooth my skin was left. That said, it's a wonderful choice for sensitive skin users to switch between in their skincare routine, especially thanks to the addition of glycerin.

Youth to the People is also vegan; cruelty-, gluten-, and paraben-free, and comes in recyclable packaging for an easy and sustainable toss.

An FAQ on facial cleansers for sensitive skin

Can I use cleansers with fragrances? 

"Fragrances offer consumers a senatorial effect, but oftentimes leads to allergies or irritation," Dr. Zeichner said. "I'm cautious about recommending exfoliating cleansers to people with sensitive skin because ingredients like glycolic acid may be too harsh for some people." Dr. Peredo advises against strong fragrances and exfoliants, too, as well as sulfates, salicylic acid, retinoids, alcohols, and dyes.

What do products claiming to be "for sensitive skin" actually contain?

"These products will probably avoid fragrances and dyes," Dr. Peredo said. "They will also have a creamy, milky consistency for sensitive skin." Dr. Zeichner added that some products may be fit for sensitive skin based on some of our key ingredients mentioned that don't have "for sensitive skin" labeled on the product.

What other tips should I follow when cleansing?

Interestingly, Dr. Peredo recommends rotating your cleansers because your skin's needs are always changing due to aging, hormones, and the environment. It's a good way to prevent any plateauing and, for extra guidance, can always check in with your dermatologist to find specific products that suit your needs and skin type.

Victoria Giardina

Buying Guides Fellow, Insider Reviews

Victoria is the Buying Guides Fellow working across all verticals on the Insider Reviews team. With a strong interest specifically in beauty, health, and lifestyle-related content, she is passionate about service journalism — a sector encouraging her to be both strategic and creative in the editorial industry.  Finding the best of the best products to share with consumers — from drugstore eyeliners to podcasting microphones — is what brings her joy.  Before joining Business Insider, Victoria held editorial internships at "The Dr. Oz Show," WebMD/Medscape, and CNN.  She is currently a senior at The College of New Jersey majoring in journalism and professional writing. For all of her reporting pieces, visit her digital portfolio. Connect with Victoria on Instagram and Twitter. To say hello or send a media inquiry, contact . Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.

Read more Read less

Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.

Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at .

More...