Experts say that every great skincare routine starts with the best cleanser—here are our all-time favourites

Right this way to find your new favourite cleanser

Best Cleanser: Woman with clear skin looking over her shoulder
(Image credit: Getty Images/Igor Ustynskyy)

Everybody has their own opinion on the most important step of the skincare routine. But if you don't wash your face properly with the best cleanser for your skin's needs then the rest is redundant, because the products that follow just won't work properly.

Washing away the day's grime and make-up is essential. Not only does it help to maintain healthy skin, but by removing build-up from the skin's surface the rest of the products can properly penetrate the top layers and get to work. Clean face = effective skincare regime.

Mimi Luzon, skin wellbeing expert, aesthetician and facialist to Bella and Gigi Hadid, couldn't agree more. "Cleansing is an integral step in your skincare routine, even more so if you wear make-up," she says. "Cleansing dissolves away excess dirt, make-up and bacteria on your skin; not cleansing is likely to leave your pores clogged and your skin more at risk of breaking out."

The really tricky thing is that there are thousands—maybe even hundreds of thousands—on the market, and so finding the perfect one for you can be a bit of a minefield. Luckily, we've taken the liberty of breaking down the different types below along with team Marie Claire UK's favourites.

Different types of cleanser

1. Micellar water

What is micellar water? It's tiny droplets of cleansing oil suspended in water. Micellar water is a great option for skin that's sensitive, as it's extremely gentle and doesn't make your face feel tight or dry after application. It's also perfect for when you can't be bothered to give your face a full-on deep cleanse—simply pour some onto a cotton pad and wipe over the face. 

However, don't become reliant on this as your only cleanser as you won't be cleaning your skin completely. 

2. Oil cleansers

Oil cleansers are really great at removing make-up, particularly at breaking down stubborn mascara. "Cleansing oils are a favourite among many, however I don’t like to use oils or oil cleansers on acne-prone skin," warns Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist at Self London. "They can be highly comedogenic, so I’d avoid it if you’re prone to breakouts and blackheads."

3. Cleansing cloths

Elevate your standard flanneled washcloth with one of these options. A sustainable alternative to your go-to cotton pads, look for double-sided options that are gentle on and cleanse the skin.

4. Cleansing balms

Balms are particularly thick and luxurious-feeling cleansers that remove make-up brilliantly and are particularly great for dry skin that needs that extra hit of nourishment. Some can leave a slightly oily residue, and therefore need to be rinsed thoroughly, so it's best to take to them off with a flannel or cloth. 

"Cleansing balms are great for dry skin types," advises Dr Mahto. "Once massaged into the skin, they work to dislodge any make-up, pollution or sunscreen that is left on the skin."

5. Foaming cleansers

A foaming cleanser is kind of the entry-level cleanser that you get given in your early teens. They get a bad rep because a number contains SLS, a foaming agent that can dry skin out. 

That said, it doesn't negatively affect everyone, and those with an oilier skin type and prone to blemishes often get on well with the formulas. They really lather up to help cleanse every nook and cranny.

6. Gel cleansers

If you have combination skin then a gel is a perfect middle ground of nourishing for drier skin, while being lightweight and refreshing enough for those oilier parts. They can be used at any time of day, but make great morning cleansers. Use on damp skin and work in before rinsing.

7. Cream and milk cleansers

Cream and milk cleansers don't foam, and so tackle dirt and grime best when applied directly onto dry skin. They work well if you have dry or dehydrated skin, because they're super nourishing but don't strip your complexion of all life. Very simple and gentle cream cleansers are a particularly great match for sensitive skin.

How to cleanse skin properly

"If you're looking for a deep clean then a double-cleanse could be the answer," explains Dr Mahto. "It involves using a cleansing oil, balm or micellar water to break down make-up, SPF and sebum on the surface of your skin first, then following it with a deeper water-based cleanse. This removes sweat, bacteria and old skin cells. The second round of cleansing will clean much deeper into the pores to remove any impurities."

The number one rule is to think about your skin concerns and to choose your skin ingredients accordingly. Salicylic acid is a great deep exfoliant for oily skin, while thicker, richer cleansers marry well with dry skin. "I believe less is more; there is definitely such a thing as too many active ingredients," says Dr Mahto. "Applying a large number of active ingredients onto the skin can trigger allergy, sensitivity or irritation."

If you have sensitive skin invest in a couple of different cleansers. "You can use different cleansers on different parts of your face," adds Luzon. "For drier areas use a nourishing cleansing cream, and for oilier areas stick with foams."

So whether you prefer a cream cleanser, a thick balm, a lightweight gel or a nourishing cleansing oil, there's definitely a cleanser out there to suit your skin's needs (and your bank balance's). Remember to strengthen your treatment plan by arming yourself with the best toner, which follows your cleanser.

Should you use cleanser in the morning?

"I personally like to start my day by cleansing my face with foam or any other delicate product with a suitable pH level," says Luzon. "I also recommend starting your morning routine at least twice a week with an enzymatic exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and encourage skin glow." 

The best cleanser for every skin type and concern

The Marie Claire UK Beauty Team take cleansing very seriously. They have tirelessly tried and tested hundreds, if not thousands, of cleansers in their time and have decided that the below are the very best. While trialling, they took the following into account: texture, ingredients, price and efficacy. These are their findings...

1. Cerave Hydrating Cleanser

Laura holding Cerave Hydrating Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Cerave Hydrating Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: CeraVe)

Cerave Hydrating Cleanser

Best drugstore cleanser

Specifications

Cleanser type: Gel
Skin type: Any, but especially dry/dehydrated
Size options: 236ml, 473ml, 1l

Reasons to buy

+
Great price
+
Suits all skin types
+
Good for all the family

Reasons to avoid

-
Perhaps not nourishing enough for very dry skin

One of the US's best-loved affordable skincare brands, Cerave's hydrating cleanser is packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid and ceramides to support skin's moisture levels and minimise dryness. The pump dispenser is super handy too. "I use this every single day," says Senior Beauty Editor Katie Thomas. "I have never loved a cleanser more than this. It is gentle, it is affordable, it's kind to my skin, it removes make-up. I am totally devoted. Hook, line and sinker."

2. Farmacy Clean Green Cleansing Balm

Laura holding Farmacy Clean Green Cleansing Balm - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Farmacy Clean Green Cleansing Balm - best cleanser

(Image credit: Space NK)

Farmacy Clean Green Cleansing Balm

Best cleansing balm

Specifications

Cleanser type: Balm
Skin type: Any, especially dry
Size options: 50ml, 100ml, 200ml

Reasons to buy

+
Removes make-up in a flash, even waterproof mascara
+
Doesn't leave an oily residue
+
Comes in several different scents

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite expensive

Portion out a small amount of this thick balm with the scoop provided, work it into the skin, and watch it turn into a milky oil, taking all traces of make-up with it down the plughole. There's a load of good natural ingredients in this (moringa, turmeric, ginger root oil) plus a subtle citrusy scent.

"I've tried no end of different cleansing balms and while there are some great cheaper options on the market now (shout out to e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm), this is the one I go back to time and time again," says freelance beauty editor Laura Mulley. "It's the best I've found at removing even the toughest make-up quickly and easily, without stinging eyes or leaving behind a greasy film. Obsessed."

3. Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

Laura holding Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water - best cleanser

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water - best cleanser

(Image credit: Garnier)

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

Best micellar water

Specifications

Cleanser type: Micellar Water
Skin type: Any, including sensitive
Size options: 100ml, 200ml, 400ml, 700ml

Reasons to buy

+
Good for sensitive skin
+
Removes make-up
+
Great price and often on offer
+
A quick first cleanse

Reasons to avoid

-
Might not be enough to remove very stubborn make-up
-
Needs to be followed with a second cleanse to remove micelles from the skin's surface

Of all of the micellar waters out there (and boy, are there a lot of 'em), Garnier's is both exceptional and insanely good value—and a real favourite amongst the Marie Claire Beauty Team. It's free of alcohol and perfume, making it a great choice for even sensitive skin, and makes light work of lifting away your best mascara and long-wearing eyeliner. Piece of cake. 

"Micellar water is wonderful stuff," says Katie. "But please, please, please don't use it as your only cleanser. It's an excellent make-up remover, but should be followed with another proper cleanse to remove things like excess make-up, dirt, pollution and SPF."

4. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser

Laura holding La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser - best cleanser


(Image credit: Boots)

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser

Best gel cleanser

Specifications

Cleaner type: Gel
Skin type: All skin types, including sensitive
Size options: 400ml

Reasons to buy

+
Big bottle that lasts for ages
+
Great for all the family, including men and teens
+
Thoroughly cleanses with stripping

Reasons to avoid

-
Isn't quite the 'double cleanser' it claims on the bottle

"I've had this in my shower and used it every day for honestly over six months and it's still going," says Laura. 

5. Skin Rocks The Cream Cleanser

Laura holding and testing Skin Rocks The Cream Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Skin Rocks The Cream Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Space NK)

Skin Rocks The Cream Cleanser

Best cream cleanser

Specifications

Cleanser type: Cream
Skin type: All skin types, including sensitive
Size options: 125ml

Reasons to buy

+
A great all-in-one cleanser
+
Comes in fragranced or fragrance-free options
+
Has a guide for how much to use on the lid

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the cheapest
-
Takes a bit of work on tough make-up

Much more than your average cream, this cleanser from Queen of Skin Caroline Hirons' brand Skin Rocks is a total hit; it cleans the skin as thoroughly as a gel but with all the nourishing feel of a cream. Ingredients inside this elegant formula include amino acids, squalane and jojoba seed oil to boost your skin barrier and its hydration levels.

"A cream texture wouldn't usually be my first choice of cleanser as I usually prefer something that feels a little fresher, but I'm so impressed with this," says Laura. "My skin feels so, so clean and soft afterwards, and really well conditioned with any residue left behind. It does a decent job at removing make-up too (although I still like to take my mascara off with a balm first).

6. Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm

Laura holding Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm - best cleanser

(Image credit: Elemis)

Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm

Best fragrance-free cleansing balm

Specifications

Cleanser type: Balm
Skin type: Any, especially dry
Size options: 100g

Reasons to buy

+
Good for sensitive skin and eyes
+
Same luxurious feel as the original
+
Removes make-up well

Reasons to avoid

-
Can leave a slight film on the skin

We would have, of course, included the famous original Elemis cleansing balm in this list. However, it doesn't appeal to those with more sensitive skin, so we think this is the better choice. Just like the original, this powerful balm deeply cleanses your skin to dissolve make-up and get rid of daily pollutants without drying it out, so you end up with noticeably clearer skin that's also seriously moisturised. This one feels like a real treat to use. 

"When I'm teaching people about double cleansing, I always tell them to buy this," says Katie. "It's a brilliant product that deserves the cult following it has. Be sure to follow it up with a gel/cream/foaming cleanser."

7. Rhode Pineapple Refresh PGA Daily Cleanser

Laura holding and using Rhode Pineapple Refresh PGA Daily Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Rhode Pineapple Refresh PGA Daily Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Rhode)

Rhode Pineapple Refresh PGA Daily Cleanser

Best everyday cleanser

Specifications

Cleanser type: Gel
Skin type: All skin types
Size options: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
Gives a very gentle exfoliating action
+
Non-drying and non-irritating

Reasons to avoid

-
Lid is a bit fiddly to undo in the shower

Unless you've been living under a rock for the last year, you'll have no doubt heard about Rhode, the undeniably Instagrammable skincare brand from Hailey Bieber. The brand's first cleanser, this contains pineapple enzymes to very gently exfoliate the skin as it washes.

Laura says, "With fruit enzymes in the formula, I expected this tingle on the skin a bit, or at the very least sting the eyes—but it didn't one bit. Instead, it just leaves skin feeling smooth, plump and baby-soft. It's a great morning or second cleanse."

8. Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser

Laura holding Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Caudalie)

Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Gel Cleanser

Best cleanser for blemish-prone skin

Specifications

Cleanser type: Gel
Skin type: Combination to acne-prone skin
Size options: 150ml, 385ml

Reasons to buy

+
Deeply cleanses pores
+
Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or over-dry

Reasons to avoid

-
There are cheaper options on the market (the 385ml bottle, however, is good value compared to the 150ml bottle)

If your skin's oily or blemish-prone, it may sound counterintuitive but the last thing you want to do is wash away all your skin's natural oils, as this will encourage further sebum production. Instead, reach for a gentle salicylic acid-based gel cleanser like this Caudalie one.

Laura says, "I wouldn't use this everyday, but if I get a few spots I'll switch my usual cleanser for this, as it's effective without being drying. It's great for guys, too."

9. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser

Laura holding and using Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Kate Somerville)

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser

Best cleanser for glowing skin

Specifications

Cleanser type: Cream
Skin type: Dull, dry
Size options: 50ml, 120ml

Reasons to buy

+
Exfoliates without the use of harsh scrubs
+
Gentle enough to use every day

Reasons to avoid

-
Maybe not for very sensitive skin

As well as packing a punch for dry and dull skin, ExfoliKate is particularly effective at tackling both characteristics of combination skin—the AHAs, lactic and glycolic acid, break down dead and dry skin cells while also removing excess oil for a softer, more radiant complexion. 

"I love to use this once or twice a week," says Katie. "But I particularly like using it as we are coming out of winter, when my skin is looking a little on the dull side. It's a spring awakening for the skin."

10. Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Cleansing Oil

Laura holding Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Cleansing Oil - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Cleansing Oil - best cleansers

(Image credit: Bioderma)

Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Cleansing Oil

Best oil cleanser

Specifications

Cleanser type: Oil
Skin type: All skin types, including sensitive
Size options: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
Removes all make-up, even waterproof mascara
+
Gentle on sensitive skin and eyes

Reasons to avoid

-
Leaves a slight film on the skin so you'll need to follow with another cleanser

A gentle oil that makes a great first cleanse, especially if you find that make-up removers usually sting your eyes. It's also rich in omegas and amino acids for extra nourishment.

"Some oil cleansers can sting my eyes, but not this one," says Laura. "I like to really work it into the skin to dissolve make-up, remove with a cloth and a splash of water, then follow up with a gel cleanser."

11. Decree Deep Cleanser

Laura holding and swatching Decree Deep Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Decree Deep Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Decree)

Decree Deep Cleanser

Best for a deep cleanse

Specifications

Cleanser type: Light cream
Skin type: All, especially dull or congested
Size options: 30ml, 130ml

Reasons to buy

+
Gives a really deep cleanse without stripping skin
+
Smooths and hydrates

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the easiest to find

For when skin feels particularly congested and in need of a deep clean. What doesn't this formula contain? Clays to unclog pores, salicylic acid to tend to those blemishes, zinc and sulphur to calm inflammation AND lactic acid to gently exfoliate. "Good god, I love this cleanser," exclaims Katie. "No other product leaves my skin feeling as baby soft as this. Not even a peel mask. It's fantastic."

12. Dermalogica Oil to Foam Total Cleanser

Laura holding Dermalogica Oil to Foam Total Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Dermalogica Oil to Foam Total Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Lookfantastic)

Dermalogica Oil to Foam Total Cleanser

Best all-in one cleanser

Specifications

Cleanser type: Oil-to-foam
Skin type: All skin types
Size options: 250ml

Reasons to buy

+
Removes make-up
+
Washes away easily
+
Nourished skin

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive for a cleanser
-
Oil is a bit messy to pour

This innovative product transforms into pretty much every texture during the cleansing process: it starts off as as gel-like oil, which removes make-up, before emulsifying into a foaming milk with a splash of water. It's a double cleanse in one bottle.

"This is about as close as you can get to a one-and-done cleanser," says Laura. "It melts away make-up as an oil, and then washes away as a milky foam (I'd still recommend always cleansing twice though). It's expensive, but a clever formula."

13. Murad Soothing Oat and Peptide Cleanser

Laura holding and using Murad Soothing Oat and Peptide Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Murad Soothing Oat and Peptide Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: John Lewis)

Murad Soothing Oat and Peptide Cleanser

Best cleanser for sensitive skin

Specifications

Cleanser type: Cream/gel
Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive and eczema-prone
Size options: 200ml

Reasons to buy

+
Really gentle on irritated skin
+
Fragrance free
+
Helps to strengthen the skin barrier

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive for a cleanser
-
Not a make-up remover

When your skin is irritated it's advised to step away from the actives and resort back to a very simple skincare routine— and this gentle gel-cream cleanser is perfect for that. It contains colloidal oatmeal, known to help to soothe, and it feel cooling on inflamed skin, like a glass of chilled oat milk.

"I have an 'SOS skincare kit' for when my skin's stressed, and this cleanser is in it," says Laura. "If you want a 'simple' cleanser that still feels luxurious, this is it."

14. Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Hydration Revival Cleanser

Laura holding Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Hydration Revival Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Hydration Revival Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Charlotte Tilbury)

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Hydration Revival Cleanser

Best cleanser for A-list skin

Specifications

Cleanser type: Cream-to-foam
Skin type: All skin types
Size options: 30ml, 120ml

Reasons to buy

+
Feels like a really good clean but not squeaky
+
Does a good job at removing make-up with one use

Reasons to avoid

-
Maybe not for very dry skin

The bestselling make-up and skincare brand from celebrity MUA Charlotte Tilbury has added a cleanser to its line-up for the first time, and it's a good suits-all option for morning and night. Like all of Charlotte's skincare, it brings with it some impressive claims: skin stays two times more hydrated for up to 12 hours, and appears 97% clearer after seven days.

Laura says: "I like the texture of this, which it creamy and foamy at the same time, and feels deeply cleansing without stripping. It isn't anything groundbreaking but it appeals to the masses, and if you're a fan of Tilbury skincare, you'll love this."

15. Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse

Laura holding Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse - best cleanser

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse - best cleanser

(Image credit: Medik8)

Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse

Best cleanser for smooth, radiant skin

Specifications

Cleanser type: Gel
Skin type: All, especially mature
Size options: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
Easy to use in the shower
+
Leaves skin feeling smooth and revitalised
+
A good way to use exfoliating acids if you don't want to leave them on your skin

Reasons to avoid

-
Might not be suitable for sensitive skin

Medik8 is one of our favourite skincare brands, and this everyday cleanser is a must try. Designed to support and improve the appearance of ageing skin, it is both hydrating and exfoliating, so you really are left with your complexion looking and feeling its absolute best.

Laura says, "This is an easy way to quickly improve the look and feel of your skin just by washing it. It really feels like it's doing something, but not to the extent that it stings your skin."

16. Eve Lom Cleanser

Eve Lom Cleanser - best cleanser

(Image credit: Eve Lom)

Eve Lom Cleanser

Best cleanser for added exfoliation

Specifications

Cleanser type: Exfoliating
Skin type: All skin types
Size options: 100ml, 200ml

Reasons to buy

+
Luxurious
+
Leaves skin glowing

Reasons to avoid

-
Very expensive

This cleanser is multi-award-winning, and it's not hard to see why. It delivers gentle exfoliation to help to decongest the skin, and leaves it feeling super soft. Beauty writer Grace Lindsay swears by it. "I always reach for this cleanser when my skin is feeling a little lacklustre. I used to be scared of exfoliation, but this does it in such a gentle way that it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin, and it leaves me with a gorgeous glow."

17. L'Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Spot Fading Serum-In Cleanser

Laura holding L'Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Spot Fading Serum-In Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: Laura Mulley)

L'Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Spot Fading Serum-In Cleanser - best cleansers

(Image credit: L'Oreal Paris)

L'Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Spot Fading Serum-In Cleanser

Best cleanser for pigmentation

Specifications

Cleanser type: Gel
Skin type: All skin types, especially those with pigmentation, blemishes or post-acne marks
Size options: 150ml

Reasons to buy

+
Proven to fade post-blemish marks
+
Easy-to-use pump bottle

Reasons to avoid

-
You'll probably need to include a serum

Step one of L'Oréal's new range to tackle pigmentation and post-blemish marks, this gel cleanser contains niacinamide and salicylic acid. It's proven to fade blemished by 51% in four weeks, and post-acne marks by 57%.

Laura says, "I'm a little dubious that just using a cleanser—which stays on your skin for seconds—would be enough on its own to have a huge impact on dark spots, but if you're using other products to tackle pigmentation and/or acne scarring, it can't hurt to include this in your routine. It's a great gel cleanser that feels refreshing on the skin."

Katie Thomas

Katie Thomas is the Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK. With over 10 years of experience on women's luxury lifestyle titles, she covers everything from the best beauty looks from the red carpet and stand out trends from the catwalk, to colonic irrigation and to the best mascaras on the market. She started her career on fashion desks across the industry - from The Telegraph to Brides - but found her calling in the Tatler beauty department. From there she moved to Instyle, before joining the Marie Claire digital team in 2018. She’s made it her own personal mission to find the best concealer in the world to cover her tenacious dark circles. She’s obsessed with skincare that makes her skin bouncy and glowy, low-maintenance hair that doesn’t require brushing and a cracking good manicure. Oh and she wears more jewellery than the Queen.

With contributions from