We have consulted with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sanober Doctor, MD, ABAARM, to explain the key points to remember when choosing facial cleansers for men. We have also included our top 10 facial cleansers for men, selected from among the most popular options available online to help you choose.
Quick List - Top Facial Cleansers for Men
CeraVe
A Hydrating Cleanser That Preserves Skin’s Natural Barrier and Moisture Balance
La Roche Posay
A Purifying, Foaming Cleanser That Gently Removes Impurities While Preserving Skin's Moisture Barrier
Crown Laboratories, Inc.
Fight Acne Bacteria With a Maximum Strength Formula
Dr. Sanober Doctor is a dual-board certified dermatologist, & a leading expert in Integrative and holistic Dermatology. She is the face behind the popular YouTube channel- 'Healthy Aging with Dr. Doctor.' She is also the founder & creator of 'AGEnesis™- The Holistic Aging Blueprint' & 'Baby SkinWise™- the World's 1st Audiovisual Skincare Guide for Parents'. Dr. Sanober is a proactive, compassionate medical practitioner with a thorough understanding of overall mind-body-spiritual wellness.
With over a decade of weightlifting experience, Christopher Heffner is an avid fitness enthusiast who enjoys starting his day with a good workout. He also has a background in engineering and business, bringing a unique blend of technical knowledge and practicality to his endeavors.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Bar soaps, or those meant for the body, are harsher, can disrupt the pH of the skin, and are not suitable for use over the face.
While efficient for the body, the bar of soap in your shower often proves too aggressive for the face. Its formulation, geared towards robust skin, tends to strip away essential oils, disrupting the delicate balance of facial skin. This can lead to dryness and irritation and even exacerbate oil production as the skin overcompensates. In contrast, Dr. Doctor adds, "A facial cleanser is specifically designed keeping in mind the sensitive nature of facial skin."
Foam-based cleaners are effective in managing oily skin.
Wash your face with plain water or a gentle cleanser, and don't apply any product for 30 minutes. See how your skin feels and determine your skin type accordingly.
Oil-based cleansers or mild, hydrating, gentle cleansers are preferred for those with dry skin.
If your skin feels tight or shows visible flaking, hydration is your priority. Opt for "hydrating," "moisturizing," or "cream" cleansers. These formulas are typically enriched with humectants like hyaluronic acid and emollients that replenish lost moisture and reinforce the skin's barrier.
Benzoyl peroxide is more suited for those with active acne as it will take care of excess sebum production and bacterial overgrowth.
Any cleanser with super concentrated ingredients such as niacin amide more than 5% should be avoided as these will aggravate sensitivities.
People with sensitive skin should also consider "fragrance-free," "hypoallergenic," or "gentle" cleansers. These cleansers are designed to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and irritation, often by omitting certain ingredients in other facial cleansers.
Avoid harsh sulfates (like SLS or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), alcohol, and artificial fragrances. These common ingredients can act as surfactants (like dish soap) and remove natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even inflammation, even for those who don't usually suffer from dry skin.
Form the habit, keep it handy in the shower for use, and make it a priority to cleanse your face, at least when you get home from work.
A liquid cleanser is the standard option for a reason. Whether it's a foam, gel, or something else, it's the most effective and easiest to integrate into most hygiene routines. This and its compatibility with various skin types contribute to its popularity.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cleanser Type | Acne-Fighting Ingredients | Hydrating Oils | Sulfate Free | Alcohol Free | Fragrance Free | Quantity | |||||
1 | CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser|19 fl oz | ![]() | A Hydrating Cleanser That Preserves Skin’s Natural Barrier and Moisture Balance | Foam Cleanser | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin | 16 Fl Oz | |||||
2 | La Roche Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Wash | ![]() | A Purifying, Foaming Cleanser That Gently Removes Impurities While Preserving Skin's Moisture Barrier | Foam Cleanser | Ceramide-3 | unknown | 13.52 Fl Oz | ||||
3 | Crown Laboratories, Inc. PanOxyl|Acne Foaming Wash | ![]() | Fight Acne Bacteria With a Maximum Strength Formula | Foam Cleanser | 10% Benzoyl Peroxide | unknown | unknown | 5.5 Fl Oz | |||
4 | Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant | ![]() | Non-Abrasive Exfolient | Foam Cleanser | Salicylic Acid | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | 4 Fl Oz | |
5 | Anua US Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam | ![]() | Purify, Soothe, and Hydrate – All in One Cleanse | Foam Cleanser | BHA | Quercetinol | 5.07 Fl Oz | ||||
6 | Galderma Cetaphil|Daily Facial Cleanser | ![]() | Simple yet Gentle Cleanser | unknown | Vitamins B3 & B5 | 20 Fl Oz | |||||
7 | Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser | ![]() | A Mild, Soap-Free Cleanser Designed to Gently Clean Sensitive Skin | Foam Cleanser | unknown | 8 Fl Oz | |||||
8 | Proactiv Proactiv Solution® Renewing Cleanser | ![]() | Acne Fighting Cleanser | Foam Cleanser | Benzoyl Peroxide | unknown | unknown | 6 Fl Oz | |||
9 | Beiersdorf Inc. Nivea Men|Maximum Hydration Moisturizing Face Wash | ![]() | Aloe Vera to Prevent Dry, Tight Skin | Foam Cleanser | Aloe Vera, Vitamin B5 | 5 Fl Oz | |||||
10 | Colgate-Palmolive EltaMD|Foaming Facial Cleanser | ![]() | Foaming Cleanser for Sensitive Skin | Foam Cleanser | unknown | unknown | unknown | unknown | 7 Fl Oz |
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is formulated for normal to dry skin types. It provides a gentle, effective way to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities without disrupting the skin's protective barrier. Developed in collaboration with dermatologists and accepted by the National Eczema Association (NEA), this fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cleanser includes key ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps maintain moisture balance, and three essential ceramides that lock in hydration. These ingredients support the natural skin barrier, protecting the skin from dryness and irritation.
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | |
Hydrating Oils | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin |
Sulfate Free | |
Alcohol Free | |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 16 Fl Oz |
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser is designed for individuals with normal to oily, sensitive skin. It removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup without compromising the skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving skin feeling comfortable and residue-free. Key ingredients include ceramide-3 to support barrier function, niacinamide to calm and restore, and the brand's proprietary prebiotic thermal spring water, which provides antioxidant protection through a high selenium content. Glycerin, included for its humectant properties, attracts and retains moisture from the environment, supporting hydration even as excess oil is removed. The formula helps maintain the skin's pH and moisture balance, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed without pore-clogging residue. This product is also offered in a refillable format, making it a practical choice for sustainable skincare routines.
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | |
Hydrating Oils | Ceramide-3 |
Sulfate Free | |
Alcohol Free | unknown |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 13.52 Fl Oz |
This foaming wash for body acne has the maximum amount of benzoyl peroxide you can get over the counter. When used consistently, it kills bacteria on your skin and prevents breakouts. The wash also treats existing acne by reducing bacteria in blemishes.
Because of its high concentration of benzoyl peroxide, those with sensitive skin may want to steer clear of this one. And no matter your skin type, make sure to do a patch test before use and introduce it gradually.
Reviewers confirmed that this product wasn't ideal for sensitive skin. However, the majority of reviewers raved about the wash, saying it helped reduce acne in many different areas, such as the back and butt. A fair few also said it effectively treated maskne.
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | 10% Benzoyl Peroxide |
Hydrating Oils | |
Sulfate Free | unknown |
Alcohol Free | unknown |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 5.5 Fl Oz |
This liquid exfoliant clears pores and refines skin texture. It contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), penetrating pores to dissolve sebum and remove dead skin cells contributing to blackheads and breakouts. The lightweight, non-abrasive liquid formula is designed for more frequent use, promoting a smoother complexion without the irritation associated with physical scrubs.
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | Salicylic Acid |
Hydrating Oils | unknown |
Sulfate Free | unknown |
Alcohol Free | unknown |
Fragrance Free | unknown |
Quantity | 4 Fl Oz |
Experience deep pore cleansing with a gentle touch. This Heartleaf-infused cleanser creates a delicate foam designed for all skin types, particularly oily and combination skin. Enriched with 3,000ppm of Heartleaf powder and 0.5% BHA, it exfoliates dead skin cells, clears impurities, and balances sebum production without harsh scrubbing.
Quercetinol from Heartleaf soothes and calms inflammation, ensuring your skin feels refreshed after every use. Triple Hyaluronic Acid locks in moisture, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and radiant. Elevate your skincare routine with this cleanser, delivering a refreshed and hydrated finish every time.
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | BHA |
Hydrating Oils | Quercetinol |
Sulfate Free | |
Alcohol Free | |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 5.07 Fl Oz |
Cleanser Type | unknown |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | |
Hydrating Oils | Vitamins B3 & B5 |
Sulfate Free | |
Alcohol Free | |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 20 Fl Oz |
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is formulated to effectively cleanse sensitive or dry skin types, removing makeup and excess oils without causing dryness or irritation. Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, this non-comedogenic cleanser is dermatologically tested for safety, ensuring it won’t clog pores or exacerbate sensitive skin issues. This cleanser is soap-free, pH-balanced, and free from harsh cleansing agents, making it suitable for even the most delicate skin. Its simple ingredient list avoids common irritants such as botanical extracts, essential oils, and sulfates, which can trigger sensitivities in certain individuals. Ingredients like glycerin help retain moisture, while mild surfactants like coco-glucoside gently cleanse. This balanced approach makes Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser an ideal option for those seeking a reliable, everyday face wash that maintains the skin’s natural softness and comfort.
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | |
Hydrating Oils | |
Sulfate Free | |
Alcohol Free | unknown |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 8 Fl Oz |
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | Benzoyl Peroxide |
Hydrating Oils | |
Sulfate Free | unknown |
Alcohol Free | unknown |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 6 Fl Oz |
Formulated with menthol for a refreshing feel, this wash also boasts various moisturizing ingredients such as aloe vera, hydrogenated castor oil, and glycerin to keep dryness at bay!
Many reviewers were not that impressed with the cap design. On the other hand, many reviewers were amazed at its hydrating power and further mentioned that their skin felt much smoother and cleaner afterward.
Others also appreciated that the face wash wasn't abrasive at all to their skin. Reviewers further said that it lathered nicely, so they only needed a little dab (the size of a pea) to reap the benefits.
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | |
Hydrating Oils | Aloe Vera, Vitamin B5 |
Sulfate Free | |
Alcohol Free | |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 5 Fl Oz |
Cleanser Type | Foam Cleanser |
---|---|
Acne-Fighting Ingredients | unknown |
Hydrating Oils | unknown |
Sulfate Free | unknown |
Alcohol Free | unknown |
Fragrance Free | |
Quantity | 7 Fl Oz |
Check out these other must-haves to take your grooming regimen to the next level.
No. 1: CeraVe|Hydrating Facial Cleanser|19 fl oz
No. 2: La Roche Posay|Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Wash
No. 3: Crown Laboratories, Inc.|PanOxyl|Acne Foaming Wash
No. 4: Paula's Choice|SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
No. 5: Anua US|Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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