You're Probably Not Using the Right Face Wash—These Expert Recs Will Change That

"I have relatively normal skin, and I love the Monat Be Gentle Creamy Cleanser. It works well to cleanse the skin from impurities without stripping. After washing, it leaves the skin feeling hydrated and smooth," Mack says.

Dermatological nurse and celebrity aesthetician Natalie Aguilar recommends using this facial wash during spring and summer. "The PCA Facial Wash is a gentle cleanser that removes makeup, oil, dirt, and environmental impurities. It hydrates and exfoliates the skin while cleansing and provides skin-soothing properties," she says.

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And for the fall and winter months, Aguilar recommends this product. "The Lait VIP O2 is the ultimate anti-pollution cleanser, purifying the skin of tiny polluting particles that are sometimes even smaller than the pores on the face," she says. "Its deep-down cleansing action will remove the urban pollutants that accumulate on the skin's surface. Pristine again, the skin regains its natural radiance and a fresh glow. It does not leave skin tight or dry after cleansing."

"It's a great gentle option for normal (and all) skin types! It contains nourishing amino acids to support the skin barrier function and prevent post-cleansing dryness," Viscusi recommends.

"For your more intensive cleanse or morning refreshing cleanse, Jan Marini Clean Zyme is my all-time favorite," says SkinSpirit lead aesthetician Karen Fernandez. "The enzyme melts away dead skin, and the citric acid brightens and deep-cleans. This is my go-to for travel, as it will perk up post-flight or hotel skin that gets oxygen-deprived and dry!"

"It's a neutral gel-based cleanser that smells like a spa and works like charm! Not too drying and easy on the wallet, so use at night to remove the day," Fernandez says.

"It is my absolute favorite. It contains salicylic acid as well as a blend of fruit extracts, jojoba oil, and citric acid," says Viscusi. "It works as a light exfoliant to improve the skin's overall tone and texture without being overly drying or irritating. I recommend using it a couple of times a week, especially in the summer as skin often is oilier during this time."

"CeraVe's Hydrating Facial Cleanser with ceramides is a great way to hydrate drier areas and pairs well when patients are using prescription skincare," Riyaz says. "Most with combination skin tend to favor sulfate-free gel-based cleansers, like Docent's Gentle Wash, as this formula meets both needs." Mack also recommends this cleanser for mature skin types.

Mack says that this cream-to-foam works well for normal-to-combination skin types. It hydrates, smoothes, and brightens.

"This is a refreshing, oil-free cleansing gel and face tonic in one for oily and problematic skin. It deeply cleanses the skin quickly and easily," Aguilar says.

Mack says this one is a winner. "It contains niacinamide, which helps to reduce inflammation in the skin. The glycolic and lactic acids help to reduce oil and promote cellular turnover, minimizing clogged pores and reducing pigmentation," she explains.

Viscusi says this is one of her go-to salicylic acid cleansers. "The super-concentrated formulation deeply cleans pores and removes oil and impurities as lactic and salicylic acids exfoliate and clarify the skin," she explains.

Fernandez says oily skin needs ingredients that will target oil production and kill bacteria. She recommends this one because it kills bacteria without overdrying the skin.

"It's an oil-controlling, smoothing, and purifying treatment bar for the face and body and can be used as a deep cleanser and an instant detoxifying mask to heal breakouts and irritation," Aguilar says. "Thanks to its unique jar packaging, this bar makes it easy to take everywhere or can be left in the shower for convenience."

Fernandez says this face wash kills bad bacteria while promoting good bacteria.

Fernandez says this creamy cleanser has a fresh citrus fragrance plus extra cleaning power without leaving your skin dry afterward.

"This noncomedogenic face wash works well on almost all skin types," Mack says. "It is a cult favorite for many of my clients."

Viscusi says this is a great option for dry skin. "This creamy cleanser removes makeup and dirt without harming the skin's delicate moisture balance, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin," she says.

"It's my favorite cleanser year-round for dry skin. It dissolves dirt and makeup while leaving the skin buttery soft and beautifully hydrated," Aguilar says.

"Dry skin typically does best with creamy or oil-based cleansers," Riyaz explains. "Bioelements Moisture Positive Cleanser is a nice creamy option."

Riyaz also recommends this cleanser from Bioelements for people who prefer an oil.

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This is Aguilar's favorite soothing cleanser for mature skin. "It gently eliminates impurities and respects the skin's natural moisturizing processes," she explains. "It infuses the skin with a general sense of well-being and leaves it feeling velvety soft. It is recommended for dehydrated, devitalized skin. It's also paraben-free!"

"Mature skin can benefit from exfoliating cleansers to help encourage faster cell renewal to minimize signs of aging as well as hydrating cleansers," Riyaz says. "Pevonia's hydrating cleanser with glycerin helps preserve the skin's vital moisture while preventing and reducing visible signs of aging."

"It's a creamy cleanser that packs an anti-aging punch! Apply to dry skin and leave on for a minute or two to let the glycolic work for best results," Fernandez says.

"For those with makeup-removal needs, the micellar water products do a great job (any brand). I recommend using the micellar water with cotton to remove makeup and then follow up with the appropriate cleanser with a washcloth," Fernandez says.

With calming botanicals, vitamins, and nourishing oils, this gentle cleanser purifies the skin without stripping or drying it out.