Disclosure: We may earn money from the companies mentioned in this post, but we only recommend brands that we truly love and trust.

6 Best Cleansers for Every Skin Type

Radiant skin begins with proper cleansing—the cornerstone of a glowing complexion and an effective skincare routine. Discover the 6 Best Cleansers for Every Skin Type to help you navigate the options and find the perfect match for your skin’s unique needs.

With a range of options like oil, lotion, gel, foaming, balm, and micellar water, selecting the right cleanser for your skin type can be overwhelming. This guide simplifies the process by exploring each cleanser type in detail—highlighting their unique benefits, ideal uses, and when to incorporate techniques like double cleansing or choose a gentle, lightweight cleanser to address your skin’s specific needs. Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, understanding your skin’s requirements and the right cleanser to match will help you achieve healthier, more balanced skin.

The Different Types of Cleansers and their Benefits

1. Oil Cleansers:

Oil cleansers are an excellent choice for most skin types, especially as the first step in a double-cleansing routine. They effectively remove sunscreen, makeup, and impurities without stripping the skin. I particularly enjoy using an oil cleanser during the colder months, as it adds a nourishing, protective layer to the skin.es a nourishing, protective layer for the skin.

For dry and mature skin, an oil cleanser can be used on its own, offering hydration and moisture without feeling harsh. For oily and combination skin, it’s best to follow up with a gel or foam cleanser to ensure a thorough cleanse and help balance oil production.

• Best for: Removing makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without stripping the skin.
• How it works: Oil dissolves oil, and like attracts like, making it effective at breaking down makeup and impurities while keeping your skin hydrated. Be sure to emulsify the oil during cleansing and, follow up with a second cleanser to complete the double-cleansing process.
• Ideal for: Dry, sensitive, or combination skin.

2. Lotion Cleansers

Milk cleanser, with its lotion-like texture, is my go-to gentle cleanser for daily use, especially in the morning. I prefer one infused with lactic acid, as it’s fantastic for boosting hydration! However, it’s not the best choice for removing heavy or waterproof makeup.

• Best for: Gently cleansing while providing hydration.
• How it works: These moisturizer-like cleansers are rich and soothing, perfect for removing dirt without drying out the skin.
• Ideal for: Normal to dry or sensitive skin.

3. Gel Cleansers

Gel cleansers are ideal as the second step in a nighttime double-cleansing routine. Personally, I alternate between gel and milk cleansers, but since my skin is extremely dry and sensitive, I tend to opt for the milk cleanser more often. However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, gel cleansers are an excellent choice for you for everyday use.

• Best for: Deep cleansing and refreshing the skin, for summer months
• How it works: Lightweight and water-based, these cleansers remove impurities without leaving a residue.
• Ideal for: Oily or acne-prone skin.

4. Foaming Cleansers

Foam cleansers are great as a second cleanser in a double cleansing routine. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin, look for ones containing salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which can help with breakouts and excess oil. However, it’s important to follow up with hydration immediately after using a foaming cleanser to prevent dryness. When skin becomes dry, it may overproduce oil as a protective response, potentially worsening the issue.

Struggling with acne-prone skin? Learn how to keep breakouts under control—click here for expert tips!

For dry and mature skin, it’s best to avoid harsh foaming cleansers, as they can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to further dryness or irritation.

• Best for: Thoroughly cleaning clogged pores and controlling shine.
• How it works: Lathers up to remove oil, dirt, and buildup. gives the squeaky clean feeling but can be drying if overused.
• Ideal for: Oily or combination skin.

5. Cleansing Balms

Cleansing balms, like oil cleansers, are excellent at removing sunscreen, makeup, and other impurities, including stubborn waterproof formulas, without stripping the skin. They often contain soothing botanical extracts or oils that help calm and nourish the skin. I love the rich texture, which makes them especially perfect for dry or colder months. Plus, their solid form makes cleansing balms incredibly travel-friendly.

• Best for: A luxurious, nourishing cleanse to removing makeup, sunscreen, waterproof products, without stripping the skin.
• How it works: Solid-to-oil texture melts away heavy makeup and hydrates the skin.
• Ideal for: Dry, sensitive, or mature skin.

6. Micellar Water

Micellar water is the perfect on-the-go cleansing solution. I love using it during flights to quickly refresh my face and neck, followed by a moisturizer or a hydrating sheet mask. It’s also incredibly convenient after outdoor activities or workouts—just dampen Cloud Pads for an instant cleanse. Fast, easy, and effective, micellar water simplifies skincare when you’re short on time or traveling.

Pair it with Clean Skin Club Cloud Pads, made from 100% organic cotton, clinically tested, and dermatologist-approved, for a gentle and eco-friendly cleansing experience. – Updated on 1/15/2025 to include Cloud Pads #Ad.

• Best for: Quick and gentle cleansing.
• How it works: Micelles (tiny oil molecules) lift dirt and makeup from the skin without rinsing.
• Ideal for: All skin types, especially for light cleansing or travel.

Double Cleanse vs. Light Cleanse

Double Cleansing

• What it is: A two-step process involving an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser.
• When to do it: At the end of the day, especially if you wear makeup, sunscreen, or are exposed to pollutants, Ideal for deep cleaning to prevent clogged pores and promote skin renewal.

Light Cleansing

• What it is: A single cleanse, often with a gentle cleanser or micellar water.
• When to do it: In the morning to refresh your skin without stripping essential oils, or on no-makeup or light-product days.

The Common Mistakes on Choosing or Using Cleanser

When choosing a wrong cleanser

1. Choosing a wrong cleanser for your skin type:

• Many people with dry skin mistakenly choose foaming cleansers because they provide a satisfying, squeaky-clean feeling after use. However, this feeling often comes at the cost of stripping the skin’s natural oils, leading to further dryness and irritation. Foaming cleansers can disrupt the skin’s moisture barrier, making dry skin even more prone to dehydration.
• On the other hand, individuals with oily skin might opt for overly creamy cleansers with the ingredient like shea butter, under the assumption that they’ll hydrate the skin. However, these rich, emollient ingredients can actually exacerbate oiliness, as they can be too heavy and clog pores, potentially leading to breakouts or a greasy feel. The key for both skin types is choosing a cleanser that matches the skin’s specific needs without over-drying or over-moisturizing.

2. Ignoring Ingredients:

• When choosing a cleanser, it’s important to be aware of certain ingredients that can harm the skin over time, especially if used frequently. While every skin type is different, there are some common ingredients in cleansers that can be problematic for many people, particularly for those with sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin. Look for formulas that are gentle, hydrating, and free from harsh chemicals. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free options are usually safer.

3. Overlooking pH Balance:

• The skin’s natural pH is slightly acidic, typically around 5.5. This acidic level helps maintain the skin’s protective barrier and makes the skin optimal state for absorbing and benefiting from skincare ingredients. When cleansers with a high pH, alkaline, are used, disrupts the barrier, causing the skin to become dry, irritated or breakouts.

4. Over-reliance on Popularity:

• Just because something is trendy doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for you—like with fashion, not every trendy product suits your skin. It’s important to understand your skin’s unique needs instead of being swayed by marketing trends. Choose products that work for your skin, not just what’s popular.

When Using a Cleanser Wrong Way

1. Over-washing:

• Cleansing too often or for too long can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness, sensitivity, or overproduction of sebum.

2. Using Hot Water:

• Hot water can damage the skin barrier and lead to redness or irritation. Lukewarm water is best for cleansing.

3. Skipping a Double Cleanse When Needed:

• Neglecting double cleansing when wearing heavy makeup or sunscreen can result in clogged pores and dull skin.

4. Not Rinsing Thoroughly:

• Leaving cleanser residue on the skin can lead to dryness or irritation, so always rinse well.

5. Using Cleansers with Active Ingredients Incorrectly:

• Actives like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are great for acne but shouldn’t be overused as they can cause excessive dryness.

Final Reminder: Don’t Skip the Basic.

Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. Often overlooked, it’s a vital step for maintaining skin health and the first line of defense against aging. Selecting the right cleanser means understanding your skin’s needs and aligning with your lifestyle. Whether it’s the deep care of double cleansing or the convenience of micellar water, every cleanser has its role. By choosing wisely and using correctly, you can achieve clean, radiant, and balanced skin effortlessly.