On the hunt for a vegan-friendly cleanser? Here is our guide to the best vegan face washes, with options for all skin types and concerns.
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. Oat Cleansing Balm
The Inkey List Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm
This calming, gentle cleansing balm helps wash away makeup, sunscreen, and other impurities on the skin without causing irritation. It’s the perfect product to use as the first step in a double cleansing routine.
This affordable cleansing balm contains oat kernel oil and colloidal oatmeal. These ingredients support the skin’s moisture barrier, minimize redness, and soothe irritation, making the balm a particularly great choice for sensitive skin. The thicker consistency of the balm is great for helping to get rid of all traces of makeup and sunscreen from the day.
Pros
- Gentle and soothing
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some reviewers complain about the thicker consistency
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this gentle face wash contains additional oils that hydrate and nourish the skin, including sweet almond oil and sunflower seed oil.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Candelilla Cera (Cire de candelilla), Silica,Sorbitan Stearate, Tribehenin, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Aqua (Water/Eau), Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Lecithin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
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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. 9, 2021.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary’s one and only cleanser is a great daily cleanser for all skin types, because it is gentle and moisturizing but cleanses effectively.
This squalane cleanser emulsifies from a balm to an oil-like consistency (despite being oil-free). It leaves the skin feeling moisturized, rather than tight and dry.
Pros
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
The main ingredient in this cleanser is squalane, a skincare ingredient that has an oil-like consistency (but isn't actually an oil). Squalane is a derivative of squalene, which is naturally found in human sebum. It is excellent for lightly hydrating the skin.
Squalane, Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Sucrose Stearate, Ethyl Macadamiate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sucrose Laurate, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Sucrose Dilaurate, Sucrose Trilaurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Isoceteth-20, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Malic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Moisturizers: The Slippery Road"
Accessed Aug. 9, 2021.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
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. Calm Redness Relief Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin
If you’re struggling with redness, this calming cleanser will help soothe the skin while gently cleansing away dirt and debris.
This milky cleanser is super gentle on the skin and easy to rinse off, so it won’t cause any further redness. It contains plant extracts and other replenishing ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin. Additionally, this cleanser was made to be gentle enough for those prone to rosacea.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
Two of the key soothing and hydrating ingredients in this gentle cleanser are chamomile extract and aloe leaf juice.
Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate (cleansing), Glycol Stearate (texture-enhancing), Methyl Gluceth-20 (emollient), Glyceryl Stearate (texture-enhancing), Hydroxyethylcellulose (texture-enhancing), Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Flower Extract (chamomile/skin-soothing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (hydration/skin-soothing), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (cleansing), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate (cleansing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Sodium PCA (hydration/skin replenishing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Hexylene Glycol (preservative), Propylene Glycol (hydration), Citric Acid (pH balancer), Phytic Acid (stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
13. 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 is the best vegan face wash for acne?
The COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser and the Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser are both excellent options.
What is the best vegan face wash for sensitive skin?
The First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser is great for sensitive skin. Paula’s Choice also has a few sensitive skin-friendly options: the Calm Redness Relief Cleanser, the Skin Recovery Softening Cream Cleanser, and the Hydralight One Step Face Cleanser.
Is CeraVe vegan?
Some CeraVe products may be free of animal-derived ingredients, but the company is not fully vegan.
The Bottom Line
There are plenty of highly effective cleansers that are formulated without animal-derived ingredients. Consider adding one of our recommended vegan face washes to your skincare routine.