How often should you use a drugstore face wash?

"Wash your face two times a day with a gentle cleanser," advises Dr. Dele-Michael. That said, folks with extra-dry skin might opt for once-daily cleansing, especially on makeup-free days. On the other hand, some people double-cleanse at night, first reaching for a cleansing balm or another oil-based formula to dissolve makeup, then a water-based face wash to remove any remaining residue.

Do drugstore face washes expire?

Most cleansers will expire 12 to 24 months after being opened, though some may only last roughly six months. It really depends on the container, the formulation, what preservatives are used, and where you store it. Look for the PAO (period-after-opening) symbol , which looks like a tiny jar with a lid. The number within the symbol will tell you how long the product lasts after being opened.

The 15 Best Drugstore Face Washes of 2021

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Some would argue that if you have to choose one budget skincare step, it should be the one that technically washes down the drain (i.e., cleanser). Don't get us wrong—cleansing is a vital part of every routine, and the right formula can make a major difference in the state of your complexion.

Luckily, there are tons of standout drugstore face washes out there, many of which are under $20 (and some even under $10). But which products shine above the rest, and more importantly, which one is right for you? We caught up with two board-certified dermatologists to get their expert opinions on the matter.

"I like gentle cleansers without sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, or fragrance to avoid irritation," says Dr. Martha H. Viera. Similarly, Dr. Adebola Dele-Michael of Radiant Skin Dermatology & Laser suggests using a mild cleanser to remove dead skin buildup and pollutants. With pointers from these pros in mind, we found standout formulas for every skin type and budget.

Scroll down for the best drugstore face washes.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser at Amazon

This wallet-friendly facial cleanser is free of irritating ingredients.

Best Budget:

Aveeno Positively Radiant Face Cleanser at Amazon

Best for dull skin, this face cleanser features soy to smooth out skin's texture and even out discoloration.

Best Pump:

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser at Amazon

This formula is gentle on all skin types—no irritation here.

Best Oil-Free:

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Facial Cleanser at Amazon

This cleanser is formulated with antioxidant-rich thermal water from a natural spring in France.

Best Soap-Free:

Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel at Amazon

A gel-like texture removes dirt, oil, and makeup from skin.

Best K-Beauty:

COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser at Amazon

Remove impurities with this non-irritating gel cleanser.

Best With BHA:

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser at Amazon

Hero ingredients work to reduce redness and clear pores.

Best Foaming:

CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser at Amazon

Don't be fooled, this foaming cleanser offers gentle exfoliation.

Best Gel:

Good Light Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser at Sokoglam.com

Better-looking skin is in your future thanks to hydrating ingredients.

Best Oil:

Enuf Project Cleansing Oil at Amazon

Oily and waxy complexions can benefit from this sebum-balancing cleansing oil.

In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look for
Why Trust Byrdie?

View On Amazon View On Walgreens View On Walmart

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Pump dispenser
Non-comedogenic
Accepted by National Eczema Association

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free

Dr. Viera says Vanicream's Gentle Facial Cleanser is among the best in the drugstore category, and we couldn't agree more. Don't let the basic-looking bottle deter you—this no-nonsense face wash is a clutch when it comes to cleaning sensitive, acne-prone, and eczema-prone skin.

Boasting a stamp of approval from the National Eczema Association, it's free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, formaldehyde, and other potentially irritating ingredients. Even those who don't struggle with skin sensitivities can benefit from using Vanicream. The soap-free formula won't clog your pores. Oh, and did we mention it's one of the most affordable options on the market?

Active Ingredients: Glycerin, coco glucoside | Skin Type: Acne-prone/sensitive/eczema-prone | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: Yes

Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Facial Cleanser

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What We Like

Budget-friendly
Non-comedogenic
Good for all skin types

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free

Dr. Viera is also a fan of Aveeno. Containing hydrating hyaluronic acid, the brand's wallet-friendly Positively Radiant face wash is a go-to for anyone looking to boost their complexion.

Active Ingredients: Soy, glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: No

View On Amazon View On Bed Bath & Beyond View On Walgreens

What We Like

Great value
Pump dispenser
Non-comedogenic
Good for all skin types

What We Don't Like

Contains alcohol
Not cruelty-free

One of the best parts about drugstore face washes is that they often come in large pump bottles, offering easy dispensing and more bang for your buck. With that said, Dr. Viera recommends Cetaphil's 16-ounce Gentle Skin Cleanser, which is soothing, hydrating, and suitable for all skin types.

Active Ingredients: Aloe, chamomile extract, green tea extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 16 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: No

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

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What We Like

Non-comedogenic
Fragrance-free
Pump dispenser

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free

Recommended by both Dr. Dele-Michael and Dr. Viera, La Roche-Posay Toleriane is among the best from the drugstore aisle. This ultra-gentle, oil-free, pleasantly milky cleanser promises to clean with glycerin, soothe with thermal spring water and niacinamide (vitamin B3), and replenish the skin barrier with essential ceramides.

Active Ingredients: Thermal spring water, niacinamide, glycerin, ceramides | Skin Type: Sensitive/dry/oily | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: Yes

Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel

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What We Like

Soap-free formula
Reduces redness
Prevents breakouts

What We Don't Like

Contains fragrance
Contains dyes

If you prefer a soap-free formula, Dr. Viera suggests Avène Cleanance. This cleansing gel uses gentle ingredients like milk thistle and thermal spring water meant to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without irritating or drying out the skin.

Active Ingredients: Thermal spring water, zinc gluconate, milk thistle extract | Skin Type: Oily/sensitive/acne-prone | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: Yes | Byrdie Clean?: No

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What We Like

Budget-friendly
pH-balanced
Good for all skin types

What We Don't Like

Small amount

If you're not on the Korean cosmetics bandwagon yet, order a tube of CosRx Good Morning Gel and hop on. This pH-balanced face wash contains all-star ingredients like tea tree oil and salicylic acid meant to remove impurities.

Active Ingredients: Tea tree oil, salicylic acid | Skin Type: All | Size: 5.1 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: Yes | Byrdie Clean?: Yes

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What We Like

Pump dispenser
Gently exfoliates
Non-comedogenic

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free

CeraVe's widely celebrated SA Cleanser contains salicylic acid, arguably the most common and effective BHA (beta-hydroxy acid). This superstar ingredient helps reduce redness, and gently exfoliates, while hyaluronic acid and ceramides provide restorative moisture.

Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, ceramides | Skin Type: All | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: No

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What We Like

Pump dispenser
Gently exfoliates
Non-comedogenic

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free
Contains alcohol

Dr. Viera also likes CeraVe's Cream-to-Foam Cleanser, which comes in a generous 19-ounce pump bottle. This face wash contains moisturizing amino acids, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, plus lactic acid for oh-so-gentle exfoliation.

Active Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, amino acids, lactic acid | Skin Type: Dry/sensitive/combination | Size: 19 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: No

View On Sokoglam.com

What We Like

Reduces inflammation
Improves skin barrier
pH-balanced
Fragrance-free

What We Don't Like

Small amount

We also love Good Light Cosmic Dew, a fragrance-free, gel-to-foam cleanser formulated to address inflammation and strengthen fragile skin. Standout ingredients include prebiotics, skin-soothing seaweed, and deeply hydrating hyaluronic acid.

Active Ingredients: Glycerin, seaweed, prebiotic plant sugars, hyaluronic acid | Skin Type: Sensitive/dry/combination | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: Yes | Byrdie Clean?: Yes

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What We Like

Pump dispenser
Natural formula
Dissolves makeup

What We Don't Like

Contains fragrance

Despite what your instincts may tell you, oil-based face washes won't make oily skin more greasy. On the contrary, this cleanser claims to balance sebum and help minimize oil production, thanks to a blend of natural antimicrobial and complexion-replenishing plant-based oils.

Active Ingredients: Safflower seed oil, olive oil, coconut oil | Skin Type: Dry/combination/oily | Size: 5.1 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: Yes | Byrdie Clean?: Yes

View On Target

What We Like

Dissolves makeup
Softens skin
Nourishing

What We Don't Like

Unhygienic container
Relatively pricey

If you're in the market for a cleansing balm, check out this brilliant formula from Nyakio. Flaunting a rich blend of earth-sourced ingredients like shea butter and sweet almond oil, the formula effortlessly breaks down makeup and dirt, leaving your skin soft, nourished, and glowing.

Active Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, shea butter, coconut oil | Skin Type: Combination/dry/mature | Size: 3.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: Yes | Byrdie Clean?: Yes

View On Amazon View On Dermstore View On Ulta

What We Like

Dissolves makeup
Pump dispenser
Nourishing

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free
Relatively pricey

When you're ready to take your makeup off at the end of the day, reach for DHC Deep Cleansing Oil. This popular Japanese face wash contains a concoction of olive oil, vitamin E, and antioxidants meant to dissolve stubborn, waterproof products.

Active Ingredients: Olive oil, capric triglyceride, vitamin E | Skin Type: Dry/mature | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: No

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What We Like

Smooths uneven texture
Balances sebum
Antibacterial

What We Don't Like

Small amount

For those battling breakouts, we recommend Rosen's Super Smoothie Cleanser. The notably thick, creamy formula promises to confront acne-causing bacteria, balance sebum, and help smooth uneven texture, leaving you with a brighter, even-toned complexion.

Active Ingredients: Strawberry powder, lemon peel | Skin Type: Acne-prone | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: Yes | Byrdie Clean?: Yes

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Reviewed: This Drugstore Cleanser Plays Well with My Sensitive Skin

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Non-comedogenic
Soap-free formula

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free

Neutrogena's Ultra Gentle Cleanser is one of Dr. Viera's drugstore favorites, and we can see why. The non-comedogenic, soap-free, luxuriously creamy formula simultaneously cleans, moisturizes, and softens without stripping the skin.

Active Ingredients: Thermal water, glycerin, cetearyl glucoside | Skin Type: Sensitive/dry/eczema-prone | Size: 12 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: No | Byrdie Clean?: No

View On Ulta

What We Like

Contains antioxidants
Good for all skin types

What We Don't Like

Contains fragrance

Sun Bum's playful new skincare line has some real gems, like this antioxidant-rich face wash. Containing coconut water, banana extract, and other beachy ingredients, the simple formula is an excellent intro-to-skincare pick for teens.

Active Ingredients: Ginseng, coconut water, banana extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free?: Yes | Byrdie Clean?: No

Final Verdict

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser (view at Amazon) is undoubtedly the best drugstore face wash on the market. The extra-mild, non-comedogenic, soap-free formula is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive, plus it's one of the most affordable options out there. If you're open to spending a tad bit more, you might consider La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser (view at Amazon), a dermatologist-approved formula with a pleasant milky consistency.

What to Look for in a Drugstore Face Wash

Your Skin Type

According to Idris, your best bet when choosing a drugstore face wash is to consider your skin type and choose a formula accordingly. “The choices of great drugstore cleansers are limitless,” says Idris. Narrowing them down by skin type will help the decision-making process.

The Texture of the Product

Once you've identified your skin type, it's easier to know what texture is best. If you have dry skin, creams, oils, or balms are the way to go. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, gel cleansers are best, she says.

FAQ

How often should you use a drugstore face wash?

"Wash your face two times a day with a gentle cleanser," advises Dr. Dele-Michael. That said, folks with extra-dry skin might opt for once-daily cleansing, especially on makeup-free days. On the other hand, some people double-cleanse at night, first reaching for a cleansing balm or another oil-based formula to dissolve makeup, then a water-based face wash to remove any remaining residue.
Do drugstore face washes expire?

Most cleansers will expire 12 to 24 months after being opened, though some may only last roughly six months. It really depends on the container, the formulation, what preservatives are used, and where you store it. Look for the PAO (period-after-opening) symbol, which looks like a tiny jar with a lid. The number within the symbol will tell you how long the product lasts after being opened.

Why Trust Byrdie?

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer specializing in lifestyle, self-care, and beauty. For this story, she interviewed two board-certified dermatologists and researched different ingredients, formulations, and packaging types for cleansers. She looked at dozens of drugstore face washes from a wide range of brands and pored over user reviews before making her final selections. As a skincare enthusiast with a routine nearing ten steps, Theresa has tried several cleansers on this list. She is particularly fond of Vanicream, La Roche-Posay, CosRx, CeraVe, and DHC. She has been contributing to Byrdie since 2020, where she covers skincare, makeup, and fitness apparel.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Adebola Dele-Michael, MD FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist, and the founder of Radiant Skin Dermatology & Laser in New York. She specializes in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery.

Dr. Martha H. Viera, MD FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, Florida. She is a fellow member of several dermatological organizations, including the American Academy of Dermatology, the Women's Dermatologic Society, and the Florida Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery.

Dr. Shereene Idris, an NYC board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, and expert in faces, fillers, and lasers.

The 22 Best Face Washes, According to Dermatologists