Are you looking for a cleanser to add to your anti-aging skincare routine? Here are our recommendations for the best face washes for wrinkles.
Do Face Washes Help with Wrinkles?
First things first: let’s talk about using a face wash for wrinkles. A face wash isn’t going to be the most effective product in your skincare routine for smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. Other leave-on products (particularly serums, chemical exfoliants, and treatments) containing ingredients that are known to fight signs of aging are going to be your best line of defense.
That said, a good face wash that is suitable for your skin type is an essential part of an anti-aging skincare routine. An effective cleanser will keep your skin balanced and get rid of excess debris on your skin, which will allow your more potent skincare products to work to their fullest potential.
Our Recommendations
1. Omega+ Complex Cleansing Balm
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Omega+ Complex Cleansing Balm
This hydrating cleansing balm contains a variety of ingredients that nourish and moisturize the skin to keep it hydrated and soft and it is being cleansed.
This fragrance-free cleansing balm is packed with effective ingredients that help ensure the skin stays hydrated and soft while cleansing. This includes omega-rich jojoba and meadowfoam seed oils.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Hydrating
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
This Paula’s Choice cleansing balm contains additional ingredients that hydrate and nourish the skin, including vitamin E and rapeseed oil.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate (emollient solvent), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (skin-replenishing), PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate (emollient cleansing agent), Diisooctyl Succinate (emollient), Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters (emollient cleansing agent/emulsifier), Trihydroxystearin (texture enhancer), Glyceryl Stearate (emulsifier), Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil (non-fragrant antioxidant/skin-softening omega fatty acid), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (non-fragrant antioxidant/skin-softening omega fatty acid), Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil (non-fragrant antioxidant/skin-softening omega fatty acid), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Nov. 10, 2021.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
Etude House Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser
This soothing and gentle foam cleanser is excellent for daily use, and is particularly beneficial for sensitive and drier skin types. It contains a variety of ingredients that moisturize and nourish to keep the skin adequately hydrated and balanced.
This simple but effective cleanser contains panthenol, glycerin, madecassoside (derived from the centella asiatica plant), and camellia sinensis leaf extract. These ingredients hydrate, soothe, protect, fight signs of aging, and repair the skin, while cleansing ingredients effectively wash away dirt and debris.
Pros
- Gentle
- Hydrating
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
98.9% of the ingredients in this gentle cleanser are naturally derived, and it is also free of common irritants (like fragrance and artificial color).
Water, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Propanediol, Lauryl Glucoside, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Panthenol, Madecassoside, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ethylhexylglycerin
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021. -
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
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. Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser
This cream cleanser is one of the best Paula’s Choice cleansers for dry and sensitive skin, as it is super gentle on the skin, and softens and hydrates.
Those with sensitive skin need a cleanser that won’t cause any irritation. This hydrating cream cleanser was formulated with sensitive skin in mind, and is even suitable for those with eczema.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
This creamy cleanser was formulated with hydrating and soothing skincare ingredients, including soja oil and matricaria flower extract.
Water (Aqua), Hydrogenated Polydecene (texture-enhancing), Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate (cleansing), Glycine Soja Oil (soybean oil/antioxidant/emollient), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient), Polysorbate 80 (texture-enhancing), Laureth-4 (texture-enhancing), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (texture-enhancing), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (cleansing), Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Flower Extract, Beta-Glucan (skin-soothing), Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate (texture-enhancing), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Hexylene Glycol (preservative), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative).
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
7. Resist Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Resist Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser
This skin-softening cleanser is an excellent choice for those with drier skin, because it effectively cleanses without leaving the skin feeling tight or dry.
Everyone needs to cleanse their skin daily, but it can be difficult for those with dry skin to find a cleanser that doesn’t leave the skin feeling drier. This Paula’s Choice cleanser contains skin-restoring ingredients that maintain the skin’s barrier so that it feels soft, hydrated, and clean.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
The hydrating and soothing ingredients in this gentle cleanser include green tea extract, matricaria flower extract, and glycerin.
Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient/texture-enhancing), Decyl Glucoside (cleansing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate (cleansing), PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether (texture-enhancing), Methyl Gluceth-20 (hydration/texture-enhancing),Glyceryl Stearate (texture-enhancing), Stearyl Alcohol (texture-enhancing), Polyacrylamide (texture-enhancing), Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract (green tea extract/antioxidant), Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract (skin-soothing), Sapindus Mukurossi Peel Extract (soapberry extract, cleansing), Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate (cleansing), C13-14 Isoparaffin (texture-enhancing), Laureth-7 (texture-enhancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol (preservatives), Ethylhexylglycerin.
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Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
8. Pigmentclar Brightening Deep Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Brightening Deep Cleanser
This foaming cream cleanser contains exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, which works to remove impurities from the skin and brighten overall skin tone.
Lipo-hydroxy acid (which is a derivative of salicylic acid) is a gentle chemical exfoliator that is well-tolerated by most, and great for acne-prone skin and acne scars. It is exfoliating and known to stimulate collagen and elastin production (which is great for anti-aging and evening out skin tone and texture), and also has anti-acne properties. While this acid will be most effective when applied as a leave-on treatment, this cleanser can still contribute towards lightening post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Contains fragrance
In addition to the lipo-hydroxy acid, this cleanser contains glycerin, which helps keep the skin moisturized.
Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, Palmitic Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Parfum / Fragrance, Tetrasodium Edta, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The Use of Lipohydroxy Acid in Skin Care and Acne Treatment"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
FAQs
How do you keep your face from getting wrinkles?
There are some preventative measures you can take to help slow down the aging process and prevent the formation of wrinkles. One of the key steps is using sunscreen on a daily basis, as the damaging UV rays from the sun are major contributors to visible signs of aging. You’ll also want to cleanse and moisturize your skin daily, and may consider adding anti-aging serums and treatments to your skincare routine (such as a vitamin C serum, a retinoid product, and/or a chemical exfoliant). Healthy lifestyle habits (exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, not smoking, staying hydrated, etc.) will also help prevent the formation of wrinkles.
How do I get rid of fine lines and wrinkles?
One of the best topical ingredients you can use to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles is retinol. This is the gold-standard for anti-aging ingredients, and you can get retinol products both over-the-counter and through a prescription from a dermatologist. Look for other known anti-aging ingredients in your serums and other skincare products, including vitamin C, glycolic acid (and other alpha hydroxy acids), and peptides. Additionally, be sure to implement the preventative measures mentioned above.
Should I wash my face with hot or cold water?
You should wash your face with warm water for optimal skin health. Water that is too hot can dry out the skin and may cause irritation, while water that is too cold won’t effectively remove your cleanser and other debris on your skin. Warm water will wash away the face wash along with any debris, but won’t dry out the skin.
The Bottom Line
While a face wash alone won’t be able to smooth out wrinkles, it is still crucial that you use an effective cleanser in your routine. If you’re building out your anti-aging skincare routine, consider using one of our recommended face washes.
