There is no denying that using a face wash tends to be part of every skincare routine. But how do you know if your face wash is right for you?
FOR NORMAL SKIN
Skin that is considered normal is neither dry nor oily. To maintain normal skin, stay hydrated, moisturise regularly, and wash your skin gently every day.
Because this skin type usually does not need any extra steps for care, it is suitable for nearly every skin cleanser.
Sunday Riley – Ceramic Slip Cleanser ($50)
THE PLANT-BASED CLEANSER
Sunday Riley is a plant-based brand that promises cruelty-free and vegan products.
Infused with ingredients like green clay and rice and olive oil esters, this cleanser balances moisture levels in the skin while freeing the face of dirt and impurities.
When used daily, it will help achieve a healthier looking complexion overall.
Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash ($75)
THE ANTI-AGEING FACE WASH
Promising a brighter and smoother complexion, this double duty face wash and enzyme cleanser removes pollutants from the skin.
The formula is skin-refining and is infused with ingredients such as antioxidant-rich Moringa and hydrating Poria Mushroom which resurface, protect and support the skin.
It has a built-in patented Tri-Enzyme Technology which has key benefits like purifying, renewing and revitalising the complexion.
Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash ($75)
FOR DRY SKIN
Dry skin tends is caused by a range of factors which may cause cracks in the skin and even lifelong skin disorders such as eczema.
Cracks in the skin easily attract bacteria and dirt, therefore having a face wash that cleanses thoroughly without further damaging the skin is highly important.
SK-II – Facial Treatment Gentle Cleanser ($103)
THE LUXURY GENTLE CLEANSER
Designed for dull, dry and dehydrated skin, this cleaner contains PiteraTM and mild treatment essence that will leave the skin hydrated for up to half an hour after cleansing.
It has key benefits like refining skin texture, firming the skin, reducing wrinkles, promoting radiance and controlling spots – all while having a mild rose scent.
Laneige – Moisturising Cream Cleanser ($30)
THE BUDGET-FRIENDLY CLEANSER
Formulated with natural oils, this cleanser by Laneige gently cleanses the skin while preparing it for the daily skincare routine.
Promoting absorption of any skincare products used after cleansing, it hydrates and moisturises without leaving the skin feeling tight.
Not only suitable for dry skin, it can also be used on combination, normal, oily as well as sensitive skin types.
FOR OILY SKIN
Oily skin occurs when there is a build-up of sebum in the skin, which is a waxy substance that protects, moisturises and keeps the skin looking healthy.
However, too much sebum can result in what feels like a thick layer of oil on the surface of the skin, clogged pores and even acne.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologists have suggested specific Do’s and Dont’s when dealing with oily skin.
What should be done: wash your face regularly, choose oil-free skincare products, wear moisturiser daily and apply sunscreen when heading outdoors.
What shouldn’t be done: do not sleep in makeup – remove it all before going to bed and avoid touching the face throughout the day (touching the face means transferring any dirt, oils and bacteria directly from the hands onto the face).
Recommended cleansers for oily skin:
Avene – Cleanance Cleansing Gel ($35.99)
THE AFFORDABLE CLEANSING SOLUTION
Formulated to remove impurities such as black pores and reduce excess sebum without drying out the skin, Avene’s cleanser is ideal for sensitive, oily skin that is prone to blemishes.
Apart from the face, it can also as a shaving gel for men with oily skin or to reduce backne.
Its formula is designed to reduce the risk of allergic reaction and is soap and paraben free.
Tatcha – The Deep Cleanse ($54)
THE HIGH-END CLEANSER
Manufactured in the US but designed in Japan, Tatcha is made with pure, kind-to-the-skin ingredients that embody luxury yet unharmful beauty.
The gel-to-foam formula removes the majority of impurities on the face while leaving the skin feeling refreshed and incredibly smooth. Its oil-free formula is created to unclog pores while reducing oil without dehydrating the skin.
Key ingredients include amino acids from silk which soften the skin, Japanese luffa fruit which exfoliates the skin, as well as Japanese wild rose which visibly tightens the pores and gives the skin a smoother texture.
FOR COMBINATION SKIN
Being a mixture of dry and oily skin, this skin type is a mixture of different skin textures on different parts of the face.
Typical oily areas on the face are on the T-zone, nose bridge and chin according to Dermatologic and Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Hooman Khorasani.
It is therefore important to find products that work specifically for your skin and that treat both oily and dry areas at the same time.
Youth To The People – Superfood Cleanser ($55)
THE POWERFUL YET NATURAL CLEANSER
Recommended for daily use, this gel face wash is created with cold-press antioxidants such as kale, spinach and green tea.
The kale is a key ingredient that provides vitamins C, E and K to the skin.
Some of its key benefits include preventing pore build-up and balancing pH levels all while thoroughly cleansing the face.
Also worth noting, its ingredients are 100% vegan and is free of sulfates, parabens and phthalates.
Fresh – Soy Face Cleanser ($57)
THE PH BALANCED FACE WASH
Named one of the bestselling pH balanced face cleansers in the beauty market, this cleanser is powerful enough to melt away all makeup and even mascara (without leaving a nasty sting on the eyes).
Its formula includes natural ingredients like acid-rich soy proteins, cucumber extract and balancing rosewater that soothes and tones the skin.
FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Sensitive skin is prone to breakouts, discomfort and irritations which means finding a suitable face wash is key to clean and healthy skin.
According to Dr. Arielle Nagler (dermatologist at NYU Langone Health), when trying new skincare products it is important to use the product slowly so that your skin can build up a tolerance for the product.
Key tips for sensitive skin include using gentle, fragrance-free products and avoiding harsh exfoliants.
Perricone MD – Hypoallergenic Gentle Cleanser ($54)
THE VITAMIN E CLEANSER
Ideal for delicate and dry skin, this cleanser has been dermatologist tested and is fragrance free and hypoallergenic.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) infused within the cleanser buff away dulling and dead skin cells leaving the skin clean and comfortable.
Also included within the formula are Vitamin E which protects the skin and minimises uneven skin tones as well as Chlorophyllin copper which promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
