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 2023

The 15 Best Drugstore Face Washes of 2022 — Byrdie / Sabrina Jiang

Don't get us wrong—cleansing is a vital part of every routine, and the right formula can make a major difference to your complexion. There are tons of standout drugstore face washes out there, many of which are under $20 (and some even under $10). The best formulas don't need pricey actives to be effective. "I like gentle cleansers without sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, or fragrance to avoid irritation," says Dr. Martha H. Viera.

Dr. Adebola Dele-Michael of Radiant Skin Dermatology & Laser is also a fan of using a mild cleanser and notes skin can benefit from gentle formulas, especially when it comes to retaining moisture. A drugstore face wash, she concludes is best to remove dead skin build up and pollutants.

We conducted hours of research on the best drugstore face washes, evaluating each on their active ingredients, benefits to skin, while also taking into account what ingredients the formulas are free from, like soaps, sulfates, dyes, and fragrance, which can be potential irritants. After consulting two board-certified dermatologists, and considering dozens of options, we landed on the following picks.

Ahead, find the best drugstore face washes for every skin type.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Aveeno Positively Radiant Face Cleanser at Amazon

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Best Pump:

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser at Amazon

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Best Oil-Free:

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Facial Cleanser at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Soap-Free:

Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best K-Beauty:

COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser at Amazon

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Best With BHA:

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Foaming:

CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Gel:

Good Light Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Cleansing Balm:

Nyakio Cleansing Oil Balm at Target

Jump to Review

In This Article

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

4.4

Amazon

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What We Like

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

What We Don't Like

Can be a bit stripping

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?

Price at time of publish: $12

Benefits: Helps remove dirt, oil and makeup without drying the skin | Active Ingredients: Glycerin, coco glucoside | Skin Type: Acne-Prone, Sensitive, and Eczema-Prone | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Face Cleanser

Amazon

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What We Like

Budget-friendly
Non-comedogenic
Good for all skin types

What We Don't Like

Takes time in removing makeup

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.

Price at time of publish: $18

Benefits: Reveals brighter, more radiant skin | Active Ingredients: Soy, glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

4.9

Walmart

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What We Like

Great value
Convenient pump dispenser
Good for all skin types

What We Don't Like

Contains alcohol

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.

Price at time of publish: $18

4.8

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser

Ulta

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What We Like

Non-comedogenic
Fragrance-free
Pump dispenser

What We Don't Like

Could remove makeup better

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.

Price at time of publish: $16

Benefits: Removes impurities while reinforcing the skin barrier | Active Ingredients: Thermal spring water, niacinamide, glycerin, ceramides | Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry, and Oily | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

WALGREENS

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What We Like

Soap-free formula
Reduces redness
Prevents breakouts
Biodegradable packaging

What We Don't Like

Not fragrance-free
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.

Price at time of publish: $14

Benefits: Helps reduce excess oil | Active Ingredients: Thermal spring water, zinc gluconate, milk thistle extract | Skin Type: Oily, Sensitive, and Acne-Prone | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Dermstore

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What We Like

Budget-friendly
pH-balanced
Good for all skin types
Antibacterial

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.

Price at time of publish: $14

Benefits: Gently purifies pores | Active Ingredients: Tea tree oil, salicylic acid | Skin Type: All | Size: 5.1 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

4.8

Amazon

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What We Like

Pump dispenser provides measured amount
Gently exfoliates
Non-comedogenic

What We Don't Like

The smell

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

Price at time of publish: $11

Benefits: Cleanses, exfoliates, and removes impurities | Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, ceramides | Skin Type: All | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

4.9

Amazon

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What We Like

Gently exfoliates
Removes makeup well
Nice foamy lather

What We Don't Like

Can be drying due to alcohol ingredient

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.

Price at time of publish: $17

Benefits: Effectively removes oil and makeup while reinforcing the skin barrier | Active Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, amino acids, lactic acid | Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive, and Combination | Size: 19 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Notrdstrom

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What We Like

Reduces inflammation
Improves skin barrier
pH-balanced
Fragrance-free

What We Don't Like

Might be slightly stripping

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.

Price at time of publish: $18

Benefits: Helps with inflammation and strengthens sensitive skin | Active Ingredients: Glycerin, seaweed, prebiotic plant sugars, hyaluronic acid | Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry, and Combination | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Target

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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.

Price at time of publish: $13

Benefits: Provides a nourished glow | Active Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, shea butter, coconut oil | Skin Type: Combination, Dry, and Mature | Size: 3.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

4.9

Amazon

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What We Like

Dissolves makeup
Pump dispenser
Nourishing

What We Don't Like

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.

Price at time of publish: $23

Benefits: Nourishes and hydrates for younger-looking skin | Active Ingredients: Olive oil, capric triglyceride, vitamin E | Skin Type: Dry and Mature | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Amazon

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What We Like

Smooths uneven texture
Balances sebum
Antibacterial

What We Don't Like

Could come in a larger size

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.

Price at time of publish: $18

Benefits: Packed with active fruit powders to help brighten and tighten | Active Ingredients: Strawberry powder, lemon peel | Skin Type: Acne-Prone | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Walmart

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Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser Review

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Provides a very balanced, clean feel
Soap-free formula

What We Don't Like

Not suited for removing makeup

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.

Price at time of publish: $14

Benefits: Provides skin-friendly cleansing | Active Ingredients: Thermal water, glycerin, cetearyl glucoside | Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry, and Eczema-Prone | Size: 12 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Contains antioxidants
Adds a glow to the face
No skin-irritating synthetics

What We Don't Like

Smell could be better

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.

Price at time of publish: $14

Benefits: Washes away dirt, makeup and daily buildup, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated | Active Ingredients: Ginseng, coconut water, banana extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Urban Hydration Bright & Balanced Aloe Vera Leaf Face Wash

Target

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What We Like

pH balancing
Moisturizing
Soothing

What We Don't Like

Gel doesn't form lather

If you're considering a natural face wash—read: one without any additives or foam agents, this fragrance-free, sulfate- and phthalate-free formula makes a good option. We love that it's aloe-based formula soothes skin and calms inflamed skin. Although it's touted as a brightening face wash, reviewers noted it's not effective when it comes to fading spots. But if you're looking for a natural clean without stripping, this is a great choice.

Benefits: Washes away dirt, makeup and daily buildup, leaving it feeling soft and balanced | Active Ingredients: Aloe, vitamins A and E | Skin Type: All | Size: 6 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Final Verdict

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser 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, a dermatologist-approved formula with a pleasant milky consistency.

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.

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. Because the choices of great drugstore cleansers are limitless, it's helpful to narrow them down by skin type. For example, those with sensitive skin should opt for the mildest formula they can find, like the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser. Oily skin types, on the other hand, should opt for a cleanser with BHA to control sebum, like the CeraVe SA Cleanser.

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.

The 16 Best Face Washes of 2023, Tested & Reviewed

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