ProductsFace WashesBest Gentle Face Washes for Combination Skin
By Kyra Heenan
Oct. 07, 2021 / 2 min read
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Finding a face wash for combination skin isn’t always the easiest task, but we’re here to help. Below, we’ve put together a list of the best gentle face washes for combination skin.
Our Recommendations
1. Face Cleanser
First Aid Beauty Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser
This fragrance-free face wash is an excellent hydrating, gentle cleanser that is suitable for all skin types, and packed with antioxidants.
Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This gentle cleanser effectively cleanses without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It contains additional ingredients that help calm and hydrate the skin, including aloe, glycerin, and allantoin.
Pros
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
In addition to the ingredients noted above, this vegan and cruelty-free face wash contains the First Aid Beauty antioxidant booster (a blend of licorice root, feverfew, and white tea extracts) to help fight environmental aggressors.
water/aqua/eau, sodium cocoyl isethionate, glycerin, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, allantoin, chrysanthemum parthenium (feverfew) extract, camellia sinensis leaf extract, glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, tocopherol, ascorbyl palmitate, caprylyl glycol, sodium pca, coco-glucoside, glyceryl oleate, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydrogenated palm glycerides citrate, disodium cocoamphodiacetate, lecithin, phenoxyethanol, sodium chloride, disodium edta, citric acid, maltodextrin, leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate, tetrasodium edta
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Nov. 8, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies"
Accessed Nov. 8, 2021.
2. Hydralight One Step Face Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Hydralight One Step Face Cleanser
For those with oilier and more sensitive skin, this gentle gel cleanser is one of the best Paula’s Choice products. It contains replenishing ingredients that leave the skin feeling refreshed and clean without irritation.
Skin types: Normal, Oily, Combination and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: First, wet the skin with lukewarm water. Dispense the cleanser into your palms, and then gently massage into the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This cleanser is incredibly gentle, even for those with more sensitive skin. However, the gel formula still effectively cleans, while soothing and replenishing ingredients calm the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some reviewers note that it doesn’t remove makeup
This cleanser contains sodium hyaluronate (the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid), which increases moisture levels in the skin. It also contains allantoin and niacinamide, which moisturize, soothe, fight signs of aging, and protect the skin.
Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Niacinamide, Inositol, Lactic Acid, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Xanthan Gum, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone), Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Propylparaben, Methylparaben, Sodium Benzoate.
-
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
3. SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
Etude House Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
This soothing and gentle foam cleanser is excellent for daily use, and is particularly beneficial for sensitive and drier skin types. It contains a variety of ingredients that moisturize and nourish to keep the skin adequately hydrated and balanced.
Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This simple but effective cleanser contains panthenol, glycerin, madecassoside (derived from the centella asiatica plant), and camellia sinensis leaf extract. These ingredients hydrate, soothe, protect, fight signs of aging, and repair the skin, while cleansing ingredients effectively wash away dirt and debris.
Pros
- Gentle
- Hydrating
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
98.9% of the ingredients in this gentle cleanser are naturally derived, and it is also free of common irritants (like fragrance and artificial color).
Water, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Propanediol, Lauryl Glucoside, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Panthenol, Madecassoside, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ethylhexylglycerin
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
4. Ultra-Calming Foaming Facial Cleanser
Aveeno Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Facial Cleanser
This gentle foaming cleanser was formulated with sensitive skin in mind. It helps effectively cleanse while reducing irritation and minimizing redness.
Skin types: Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This gentle cleanser contains feverfew (chrysanthemum parthenium (feverfew) extract), a natural ingredient that is related to chamomile, which calms the skin. Additional ingredients cleanse the skin while minimizing irritation so that the skin feels soothed and balanced.
Pros
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
This hypoallergenic cleanser is free of ingredients that commonly irritate sensitive skin, including fragrances and soap.
Water, glycerin, cocamidopropyl betaine, decyl glucoside, citric acid, ppg-2 hydroxyethyl cocamide, peg-16 soy sterol, polysorbate 20, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, phenoxyethanol, butylene glycol, sodium coco pg-dimonium, chloride phosphate, sodium citrate, tetrasodium EDTA, methylparaben, xanthan gum, propylparaben, ethylparaben, propylene glycol, chrysanthemum parthenium (feverfew) extract, sodium cocoyl amino acids, sarcosine, potassium aspartate, magnesium aspartate, sodium hydroxide
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): A systematic review"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
5. Daily Face Cleanser
Cetaphil Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Cetaphil Daily Face Cleanser
For those with normal to oily skin, this is one of the best cleansers from Cetaphil. The gel to foam formula is clinically proven to deeply cleanse the skin, but is still gentle enough to not strip it of its natural oils.
Skin types: Normal, Oily, Combination and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This is an excellent cleanser for daily use, particularly for those with normal to oily skin. It cleanses without irritating or drying out the skin and contains vitamins B3 and B5, as well as glycerin, which hydrate and nourish the skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
Cons
- Contains fragrance
The mild and low lather formula is dermatologist tested, and shown to be gentle on sensitive skin. Since it is also non-comedogenic, it won’t clog pores, making it a suitable choice for those with acne-prone skin.
Water, Glycerin, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Phenoxyethanol, Masking Fragrance, Panthenol, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Disodium Edta, Methylparaben
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
6. Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam
Hada Labo Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam
This hydrating cleansing foam effectively cleanses the skin while maintaining moisture levels for balanced, supple skin.
Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
The star ingredient in this Hada Labo cleanser is hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid pulls moisture to the skin, helping to increase hydration levels.
Pros
- Gentle
- Hydrating
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
This cleanser contains additional ingredients that increase hydration (including glycerin), and is free of fragrance and color additives.
Water, PEG-8, Butylene Glycol, polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, TEA-Cocoyl Alaninate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Starch Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Succinic Acid
7. Clear Face Cleansing Foam
Sebamed Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam
This Sebamed cleansing foam is excellent for those with acne-prone skin that tends to be a bit oilier, as it deeply cleans pores while also hydrating for balanced skin.
Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This cleanser contains Montaline C40, an antibacterial ingredient that helps clean away impurities that clog pores. The mild soap also helps cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
Pros
- Gentle
- Fights acne
- Soothing
Cons
- Contains fragrance
In addition to the Montaline C40, this cleanser contains vitamin B5 (panthenol), which soothes the skin.
Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betainamide MEA Chloride, Hydroxypropyl Oxidized Starch PG-Trimonium Chloride, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
8. Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
Neutrogena Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
This cream cleanser is an excellent daily face wash for those with drier skin. It is gentle on the skin and effectively cleanses without further drying it out.
Skin types: Normal, Dry and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This cleanser is one of the best Neutrogena cleansers for those with drier skin. It contains glycerin (a humectant), which keeps the skin moisturized while cleansing ingredients gently remove dirt and debris. It is also non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t contain ingredients known to clog pores.
Pros
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist developed
Cons
- Some reviewers complain about the pump
This cream cleanser was developed by dermatologists, and is suitable for sensitive skin, including those with rosacea and eczema.
Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cetearyl Glucoside, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 25, 2021.
9. Foaming Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
This foaming cleanser is gentle and non-irritating on the skin, but still effectively removes dirt, debris, and excess oil without stripping it.
Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet the skin with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This cleanser is one of the best CeraVe products for oilier skin types, because it cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. Maintaining the skin’s moisture is vital, as products that dry out the skin can actually trigger the skin to produce more oil. This cleanser allows you to protect your skin while still cleansing away excess oil, dirt, and debris.
Pros
- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
This daily foaming gel cleanser contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and three essential ceramides. These ingredients help ensure the cleanser doesn’t strip the skin of its natural moisture. They also help calm and soothe the skin.
Aqua / Water / Eau, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Niacinamide, Peg-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl, Taurate, Propylene Glycol, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Methylparaben, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Disodium Edta, Propylparaben, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium Edta, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum
-
American Academy of Dermatology. "How to control oily skin"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
10. Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary’s one and only cleanser is a great daily cleanser for all skin types, because it is gentle and moisturizing but cleanses effectively.
Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: Dispense the cleanser into clean, dry hands, and then rub your hands together to allow it to melt. Gently massage the cleanser onto dry skin, and then rinse with warm water.
This squalane cleanser emulsifies from a balm to an oil-like consistency (despite being oil-free). It leaves the skin feeling moisturized, rather than tight and dry.
Pros
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
The main ingredient in this cleanser is squalane, a skincare ingredient that has an oil-like consistency (but isn't actually an oil). Squalane is a derivative of squalene, which is naturally found in human sebum. It is excellent for lightly hydrating the skin.
Squalane, Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Sucrose Stearate, Ethyl Macadamiate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sucrose Laurate, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Sucrose Dilaurate, Sucrose Trilaurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Isoceteth-20, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Malic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Moisturizers: The Slippery Road"
Accessed Aug. 9, 2021.
11. Calm Redness Relief Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin
If you’re struggling with redness, this calming cleanser will help soothe the skin while gently cleansing away dirt and debris.
Skin types: Normal, Dry, Combination and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: First, wet the skin with lukewarm water. Dispense the cleanser into your palms, and then gently massage into the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This milky cleanser is super gentle on the skin and easy to rinse off, so it won’t cause any further redness. It contains plant extracts and other replenishing ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin. Additionally, this cleanser was made to be gentle enough for those prone to rosacea.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
Two of the key soothing and hydrating ingredients in this gentle cleanser are chamomile extract and aloe leaf juice.
Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate (cleansing), Glycol Stearate (texture-enhancing), Methyl Gluceth-20 (emollient), Glyceryl Stearate (texture-enhancing), Hydroxyethylcellulose (texture-enhancing), Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Flower Extract (chamomile/skin-soothing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (hydration/skin-soothing), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (cleansing), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate (cleansing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Sodium PCA (hydration/skin replenishing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Hexylene Glycol (preservative), Propylene Glycol (hydration), Citric Acid (pH balancer), Phytic Acid (stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
FAQs
How do I choose a face wash?
When picking out a face wash, you’ll want to take into consideration your skin type, and also think about whether there are certain skin issues you’re concerned about. You’ll also need to keep your budget in mind. From there, you can pick out a face wash that is formulated for your needs and fits your budget. For example, if you have combination skin and are prone to redness, you’d want to seek out a cleanser formulated for your skin type that targets this concern (like the Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief Cleanser).
Which face wash is best for combination skin with acne?
If you’re dealing with acne and have combination skin, a great option for you is the Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam, which gently but effectively cleanses the skin. This face wash is gentle on the skin and won’t strip it of its natural oils or cause irritation. It also contains antibacterial ingredients that help fight breakouts.
How often should I use face wash?
You should wash your face one to two times everyday, and avoid washing more frequently than that. If you over-cleanse, you can irritate your skin. If you only wash your face once a day, it should be at the end of the day in order to cleanse away any sweat, dirt, sebum, and debris. Many people will also cleanse their face in the morning before applying skincare products. This is particularly necessary for people who workout in the morning. However, some people can get away with just cleansing in the evening.
The Bottom Line
There are a variety of great gentle cleansers on the market that are suitable for combination skin. If you have combination skin, consider adding one of the face washes recommended above to your skincare routine.
About the author
Kyra Heenan
Kyra is a content writer based in Los Angeles, CA. She works in the health and wellness sphere, and covers everything from beauty to skincare to fitness. She has been passionate about skincare since she was a teenager, and loves uncovering the absolute best routines and products available to help people reach their skin goals.
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