If you have oily skin, finding the right daily face wash that will effectively cleanse your skin is crucial. Here is our guide to the best daily face washes for oily 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.
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
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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.
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.
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Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
3. Effaclar Gel Facial Wash for Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel Facial Wash for Oily Skin
This gentle foaming gel cleanser is one of the best La Roche-Posay cleansers for oily skin. It removes dirt, oil, and other debris from the skin without disrupting the pH balance or overdrying.
The key ingredient in this cleanser is zinc pidolate, an astringent and anti-inflammatory ingredient that is known for its ability to help control sebum (oil). This makes this gel cleanser an excellent choice for oily skin, as it absorbs excess oil to help reduce shine. This cleanser is also gentle and doesn’t dry out the skin, which is crucial for oily skin, because cleansers that strip the skin of its natural moisture can actually trigger the skin to produce more oil.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Contains fragrance
The Effaclar Gel Facial Wash is non-comedogenic, which means it is not likely to clog pores. This means it is suitable for those with oily skin that are prone to acne.
Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, PEG-8, Coco-Betaine, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Zinc PCA, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum/Fragrance
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Topical Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis"
Accessed Aug. 13, 2021.
4. 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.
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
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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.
5. 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.
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
6. Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
COSRX Face Wash for Acne and Daily Cleansing
COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
This gentle foaming cleanser removes excess oils and helps unclog pores without drying out the skin.
If you’re acne-prone, you need a daily cleanser that will remove excess oils and impurities without further irritating breakouts or drying out the skin. This cleanser contains a 0.5% concentration of salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps gently unclog pores to minimize breakouts.
Pros
- Gentle
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains fragrance
In addition to the salicylic acid, this cleanser contains willow bark water, tea tree oil, evening primrose extract, and other soothing skincare ingredients.
Water, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, Butylene Glycol, Glycol Distearate, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Salicylic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance, Sodium Chloride, Melaleuca Alternigolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Saccharomyces Ferment, Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethyl Hexanediol, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
7. Gel Cleanser
COSRX Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
This gentle gel cleanser is great for all skin types. It effectively cleans and restores the skin to its optimal pH level without irritating or drying it out.
This is an excellent daily cleanser, because it is gentle and moisturizing, but still effectively works to remove oil, dirt, and debris from the skin. It has a slightly acidic pH level, which helps restore the skin to an optimal pH level so that it is healthy and soothed.
Pros
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains fragrant essential oils
Some of the key ingredients in this cleanser include evening primrose extract, which soothes and hydrates, as well as tea tree oil, which calms inflamed skin. It also contains betaine salicylate, which is a gentle chemical exfoliant.
Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Polysorbate 20, Styrax Japonicus Branch/Fruit/Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Saccharomyces Ferment, Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Allantoin, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Betaine Salicylate, Citric Acid, Ethyl Hexanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Effect of Evening Primrose Oil on Korean Patients With Mild Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
8. 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.
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
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 24, 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.
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
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American Academy of Dermatology. "How to control oily skin"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
10. Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser
Those with particularly oily skin will benefit from this gentle cream-to-foam cleanser, which effectively cleanses and removes excess oil to reduce shine without drying out the skin.
Oily skin needs a cleanser that effectively cleans without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This is because skin that is stripped can actually end up producing even more oil. This is one of the best Paula’s Choice cleansers for oily skin, because it removes excess oil but is still gentle enough to maintain the right hydration balance.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
Cons
- May be drying for some skin types
This cleanser contains ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin to keep it balanced, including glycerin, sunflower seed oil, and aloe.
Water (Aqua), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (cleansing), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate (cleansing), Stearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Glycol Distearate (texture-enhancing), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (sunflower oil/non-fragrant oil/antioxidant), Acrylates Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Cetearyl Alcohol (texture-enhancing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (hydration/skin-soothing), Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Hexylene Glycol (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
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Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
11. Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser
This salicylic acid cleanser is one of the best Paula’s Choice cleansers for acne. It removes excess oil and pore-clogging debris without drying out the skin or causing any redness.
This gel cleanser contains the chemical exfoliator salicylic acid, which is a beta-hydroxy acid (or BHA). Salicylic acid sheds excess skin cells and decongests pores to fight acne and blackheads, leading to a clearer complexion.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-drying
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
This cleanser has a 0.5% concentration of salicylic acid. The low concentration helps clear the skin of excess oil and debris without irritating it.
Salicylic Acid 0.5% (anti-acne), Water (Aqua), Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate (cleansing agent), Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer (texture enhancer), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate (cleansing agent/solubilizer), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (cleansing agent), Arginine (amino acid/skin-softening), Butylene Glycol (hydration/slip agent), PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate (emollient/emulsifier), Panthenol (vitamin B5/hydration), Disodium EDTA (chelating agent), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil (cleansing agent/solubilizer), Sodium Citrate (chelating agent), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative).
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
12. Resist Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Resist Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser
This cream-to-foam cleanser is gentle on the skin, but still effectively removes excess oil and debris. It contains replenishing ingredients that balance moisture levels and leave the skin feeling soft and balanced.
People with oily to normal skin need a cleanser that effectively cleanses without stripping the skin of its natural moisture (which can actually trigger the production of more oil). This cleanser is formulated to gently cleanse while still maintaining moisturized skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some reviewers noted it irritated their skin
One of the key ingredients in this cleanser is hyaluronic acid, which helps the skin retain moisture. It also contains ceramides, which work to restore the moisture barrier and strengthen the skin. Aloe also helps calm sensitive skin and reduce redness.
Water (Aqua), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (cleansing), Stearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Glycol Distearate (texture-enhancing), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (non-fragrant antioxidant plant oil), Acrylates Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP (hydration/skin replenishing), Phytosphingosine (skin-restoring), Phospholipids, Sphingolipids (hydration/skin replenishing), Lecithin (skin-restoring), Arginine (amino acid/hydration/skin replenishing), Cholesterol (hydration/skin replenishing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (hydration/skin-soothing), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate (texture-enhancing), Xanthan Gum, Carbomer (texture-enhancing), Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol (preservatives), Caprylyl Glycol.
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Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
FAQs
What face wash is best for oily and acne-prone skin?
If you have oily skin and deal with breakouts, there are some great daily face washes that are suitable for your skin’s needs on this list. The COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser, the Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam, and the Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser are all excellent choices for people with oily, acne-prone skin.
Can I wash my face three times a day if I have oily skin?
While it can be tempting, you should not wash your face more than two times per day, even if you are using a gentle cleanser. By over-cleansing your oily skin, you’re actually doing yourself a disservice. When you cleanse your skin too frequently, you can strip your skin of it’s natural oils and cause irritation. This can actually trigger your skin to produce even more oil to overcompensate. Stick with washing your face once in the morning and once in the evening.
How do I choose a face wash?
When picking out a face wash, you’ll want to consider your skin type and any skin concerns you may have. You’ll also want to keep your budget in mind. From there, you can look for a face wash that targets your skin’s needs and is in your price range. For example, if you have very oily skin and want a face wash that will help control oil production, you’ll want to look for a product that suits those needs (like the Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser or the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel Facial Wash for Oily Skin).
The Bottom Line
If you have oily skin, there are a variety of great face washes available on the market that suit your skin type. Choose one of the recommended face washes that works best for you to maintain a healthy complexion.