Best facial cleanser: 12 picks for every skin type and budget

Before we get into it, let’s start by demystifying the concept of a cleanser. Because few people know that the latter isn’t just a pretty word for face wash. In fact, the two are not even interchangeable. Unlike a wash or soap, a cleanser usually doesn’t foam nor does it need to be rinsed off. Usually more hydrating and less irritating, a cleanser dissolves makeup and removes dirt from the surface of the skin whereas a face wash cleans pores more deeply. If you wear makeup or live in a city or polluted area, you should probably use both. In that case, your beauty routine should consist of the cleanser first, then followed by a wash. Now that we cleared that up, let’s clear up your skin! Here are 12 of the best facial cleansers for every skin type and budget.

COSRX – Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Garnier SkinActive – Micellar Cleansing Water

Drunk Elephant – Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser

Farmacy – Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

Kate Somerville – ExfoliKate Cleanser

de Mamiel – Restorative Cleansing Balm

Aesop – Gentle Facial Cleansing Milk

Philosophy – One-Step Facial Cleanser

One Love – Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil + Makeup Remover

Red Earth – Hydrate Refreshing Cleanser

Ole Henriksen – Find Your Balance Oil Control Cleanser

First Aid Beauty – Pure Skin Face Cleanser

All makeup lovers and city dwellers should not skip this crucial step for clear skin. No matter your skin type, from oily to dry to acne prone, sensitive and ageing, there is a cleanser fit for your needs to pamper your face and get rid of all undesired residues. We even searched for the best facial cleanser and narrowed it down to the 12 top picks. So jelly, oil, milk, exfoliating, hydrating or balm cleanser, the option are all there for you to choose from.