Experts say that every great skincare routine starts with the best cleanser—here are our all-time favourite
Right this way to find your new favourite cleanser
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.
Designed to work with any cleanser, Beauty Pie’s cleansing cloths are double-sided with one side which gently scrubs, and the other with a smooth skin grip for polishing and finishing.
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
Cerave Hydrating Cleanser
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
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
Farmacy Clean Green Cleansing Balm
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
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
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
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. Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser
Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser
Specifications
This is a really, really good lightweight everyday cleanser. It works beautifully after a cleansing balm if you want to thoroughly cleanse the skin, especially in the summer when you've been wearing SPF. Or the winter for that matter, as you're more likely to wear richer creams.
5. Frances Prescott Tri-Balm
Frances Prescott Tri-Balm
Specifications
We really love this innovative product. It comes in a sort of deodorant-style twist-up tube that you work into your skin directly. Although it says it can remove make-up we prefer to use it as a second cleanse. Once applied, work it in to give skin a proper clean. You can then leave it on as an exfoliating mask. The reason it's called three in one is that it's so moisturising, you could leave it all day as your face oil. Genius.
6. Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm
Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm
Specifications
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 really, 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 gel/cream/foaming cleanser."
7. Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel
Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel
Specifications
Without a doubt one of the best cleansers on the beauty market, Oskia's hero formula offers a thorough cleanse without stripping your skin dry. It really does do it all: buffing away dead skin cells, removing make-up and environmental aggressors, improves skin's firmness and elasticity and supports the lipid barrier for your best skin ever. Just divine.
8. Skingredients Sally Cleanse
Skingredients Sally Cleanse
Specifications
The brainchild of beauty genius The Skin Nerd, aka Jennifer Rock, Skingredients is all about feeding, protecting and respecting your skin with a focus on ingredients. It's just launched on UK soil and we couldn't be more excited. Sally Cleanse, featuring pore-declogging ingredient salicylic acid, can be used every three days to tackle excess oil, blackheads and blemishes. It can also be used as a 'micro mask' to zap pesky spots, and on your body to help with keratosis pilaris.
9. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser
Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser
Specifications
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. Spring awakening for the skin."
10. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
Specifications
This is one of the brand's most popular products and you can see why. Warm the product in your hands before applying it to your skin and watch as the day comes off. You can't argue with that, and you certainly can't argue with that price.
11. Aurelia London Miracle Cleanser
Aurelia London Miracle Cleanser
Specifications
Aurelia London is known for using probiotics in its products – meaning live GOOD bacteria that feeds the skin's microbiome and helps it function at its best. This cleanser basically ensures you have healthy skin.
12. Decree Deep Cleanser
Decree Deep Cleanser
Specifications
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."
13. Fenty Skin Total Cleans'r Remove-It-All Cleanser
Fenty Skin Total Cleans'r Remove-It-All Cleanser
Specifications
Fenty Skin delivers a mighty cleanser. Use it to take off your make-up and seriously cleanse the face (because the wise, wise Rihanna says make-up wipes are cancelled). It's handy as it purifies the pores, so if you're prone to shine you'll love it.
14. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo Cleanser
Specifications
This particular cleanser is very gentle and soothing on the skin, with clever anti-friction technology so as not to further irritate skin that's already a bit unhappy, which makes it a good starting place for blemish or acne-prone skin. What's more, dermatologists regularly recommend it to patients in clinic, so you know it's a good'un.
15. Sarah Chapman Skinesis Ultimate Cleanse
Sarah Chapman Skinesis Ultimate Cleanse
Specifications
Meghan Markle's London facialist offers up her expertise in her skincare line. This is a really good cleansing oil that gets rid of every last scrap of make-up, dirt and grime. Inside are peptides, vitamin A and antioxidants that work seamlessly to help fight free-radicals, boost collagen and reveal your natural glow. "It's tricky (not impossible) to get an appointment at the Sarah Chapman Skinesis clinic," says Katie. "But look out for the Skin School series on the brand's Instagram account to help you get more from the products at home."
16. Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse
Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse
Specifications
Medik8 is just one of the brands that we trust and this gentle 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.
17. Eve Lom Cleanser
Eve Lom Cleanser
Specifications
This cleanser is multi-award winning, and it's not hard to see why. It delivers gentle exfoliation, to help decongest the skin, and leaves you feeling super soft. Our 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."
18. Intuisse Active NAD+ Cleansing Lotion
Intuisse Active NAD+ Cleansing Lotion
Everyone is talking about NAD right now, but the easiest way to add it to your routine is with a cleanser. Beauty writer Dionne Brighton has been using the NAD+ Cleansing Lotion for months and won't use anything else. "I first tried this because I was fascinated with how the brands NAD+ can help reduce inflammation and treat fine lines. It's perfect for travel and lazy days, as you can use this without washing your face. It's so easy to get some onto a (reusable) cotton pad and wipe it all over. Usually, I have to double cleanse, but my skin feels clean, refreshed, and protected after using this lotion in just one swipe."
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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.
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