The Best Facial Cleansers for Men's Skin Types

A man looking at himself in the mirror after using one of the best facial cleansers for men's skin types. He has a cleanly shaven face and looks happy and refreshed.

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Facial cleansers are an essential part of any skincare routine, and men are no exception. However, finding the right facial cleanser for your skin type can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it’s important to know which one will work best for your specific needs. Accordingly, we’ll guide you through the best facial cleansers for men’s skin types.

Understanding Your Skin Type

Before diving into the best facial cleansers for men, let’s first understand the different skin types. There are four main skin types – normal, oily, dry, and combination. Normal skin is well-balanced, with no signs of oiliness or dryness. Oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, leading to shiny skin and acne breakouts. Dry skin lacks moisture, causing flakiness and tightness. Combination skin is a mix of oily and dry skin, with an oily T-zone and dry cheeks.

Best Facial Cleansers for Normal Skin

Men with normal skin can opt for a gentle cleanser that won’t strip away natural oils. Look for a product with natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or green tea. Our top pick for normal skin is the Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser. It’s a non-irritating and fragrance-free formula that effectively removes dirt and impurities without drying out the skin.

Cetaphil Face Wash, Daily Facial Cleanser

Cetaphil Face Wash - Daily Facial Cleanser for Sensitive, Combination to Oily Skin, 20 oz, Gentle Foaming, Soap Free, Hypoallergenic

Item Form:

Lotion

Scent: 

Unscented

Brand:

Cetaphil

Skin Type:

All

Cetaphil Face Wash is a daily facial cleanser designed for sensitive and combination to oily skin. The gentle foaming formula is soap-free and hypoallergenic, making it a safe option for those with sensitive skin. The 20 oz bottle is a convenient size for daily use and provides a thorough cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils.

  • Reinforces skin’s moisture barrier, balances skin, perfect for sensitive, combination skin
  • Clinically tested to remove dirt, excess oils and makeup without leaving skin dry or tight
  • This hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic skin cleanser deep cleans without clogging pores
  • Gentle formula for use daily, morning and night
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  • Understanding your skin type is crucial for choosing the right facial cleanser.
  • Men with oily skin should look for cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
  • Following a proper cleansing routine, including using lukewarm water and a moisturizer, can help maintain clear and healthy skin.

Best Facial Cleansers for Oily Skin

Men with oily skin need a cleanser that can control excess oil production and prevent acne. A foaming cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide is ideal for oily skin. 

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser - Face Wash for Oily Skin and Normal Skin with Niacinamide

Item Form:

Gel

Scent: 

Unscented

Brand:

La Roche-Posay

Skin Type:

Oily

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser is a face wash designed for oily and normal skin types. The formula contains niacinamide, which helps to purify and soothe the skin without causing dryness. The cleanser is soap-free and fragrance-free, making it a gentle option for daily use.

  • Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser is a daily face wash for normal to oily, sensitive skin.
  • Formulated with La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal spring water, niacinamide, and ceramide-3, this face wash gently cleanses skin of dirt, makeup, and impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier and pH.
  • Its gentle foaming formula leaves skin feeling clean, fresh, and comfortable with no pore-clogging residue.
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Best Facial Cleansers for Dry Skin

Men with dry skin need a cleanser that can hydrate and nourish the skin. Look for a creamy or oil-based cleanser with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter. Our top pick for dry skin is the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. It’s a non-foaming formula that gently cleanses and hydrates the skin without stripping away natural oils.

CeraVe - Hydrating Facial Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser - Daily Face Wash for Normal to Dry Skin, 12oz - 355ml

Item form:

Liquid

Scent:

Fragrance Free

Brand:

CeraVe

Skin Type:

Dry

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a daily face wash designed for normal to dry skin. The 12oz bottle contains 355ml of the non-irritating and fragrance-free formula, which helps to clean and hydrate the skin. The cleanser is suitable for daily use and can be used as a part of a regular skincare routine.

  • Unique formula with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that cleanses, hydrates and helps restore the protective skin barrier
  • Formulated hyaluronic acid to help retain skin’s natural moisture.
  • Removes dirt, oil and makeup and is gentle on skin.
  • Fragrance free, non-comedogenic, non-drying and non-irritating
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Best Facial Cleansers for Combination Skin

Men with combination skin need a cleanser that can balance out the oily and dry areas of their face. A gel-based cleanser with mild exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) can help to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. 

Paula's Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser

Paula's Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser - Green Tea & Chamomile, 190 mL

Item form:

Cream

Scent: 

Unscented

Brand:

Paula’s Choice

Skin Type:

Sensitive

Paula’s Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser is an anti-aging face wash designed for dry skin. The formula includes green tea and chamomile extracts, which help to hydrate and soothe the skin. The 190 mL bottle is a convenient size for daily use, and the cleanser is gentle enough for use around the eyes.

  • Restore your face to its natural state of moisture & suppleness while cleansing & removing makeup. Gently cleanses without dehydrating or leaving skin feeling tight. Contains skin restoring ingredients safe for use in eye area.
  • Paula’s Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Facial Cleanser replenishes moisture and helps to preserve skin’s healthy barrier while effectively cleansing skin. The result? Visibly smoother hydrated softer and younger-looking skin with each use!
  • Use RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Facial Cleanser twice daily as part of your morning and evening skin care routines along with your favorite Paula’s Choice toner, exfoliator, serums, spot treatments, and moisturiser with SPF for daytime wear.
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Tips for Using Facial Cleansers

Gentlemen, navigating the world of skincare need not be a complex affair. Let’s simplify it with some straightforward advice on using facial cleansers effectively. Your skin, although more resilient than women’s, requires thoughtful care. Here’s how you can keep it in top condition:

Choosing the right cleanser

  • Identify your skin type: Male skin typically is thicker and more oil-prone, yet it varies. It could be dry, sensitive, or a mix.
  • Oily skin: Opt for gel or foaming cleansers containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to tackle oil and breakouts.
  • Dry skin: Cream-based cleansers with moisturizing agents like hyaluronic acid or ceramides work wonders.
  • Sensitive skin: Go for mild, fragrance-free options. Ingredients like aloe vera or colloidal oatmeal are your allies here.
  • Avoid harsh ingredients: Steer clear of cleansers with alcohol, sulfates, or potent fragrances to prevent irritation.

Proper cleansing technique 

  • Start with clean hands: This is crucial to avoid transferring grime and germs to your face.
  • Use lukewarm water: Hot water can strip your skin of necessary oils.
  • Moderation is key: A small, dime-sized amount of cleanser suffices. More doesn’t equate to better cleansing.
  • Massage gently: With fingertips, in circular motions, cover your face thoroughly, not forgetting the hairline and beard area.
  • Pay attention to oily zones: The forehead, nose, and chin often need extra care due to higher oil production.
  • Gentleness is paramount: Harsh scrubbing can damage your skin.
  • Rinse well: Ensure all cleanser is washed off.
  • Pat dry, don’t rub: Use a clean, soft towel to gently dry your face.

Frequency 

  • Twice daily: Morning and before bed are ideal times.
  • Post-exercise: A rinse or gentle wash after sweating helps prevent breakouts.

Additional tips 

  • Exfoliate: Once or twice a week, use a gentle scrub to remove dead cells and encourage new cell growth.
  • Moisturize: Follow up cleansing with a moisturizer that suits your skin type.
  • Seek expert advice: If in doubt, a dermatologist can offer tailored recommendations.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’re not just cleaning your face; you’re investing in its long-term health and vitality. Remember, skincare is not just a routine; it’s a form of self-care.

Choosing the right facial cleanser for your skin type is essential for maintaining clear and healthy skin. With our guide to the best facial cleansers for men’s skin types, you can find the perfect product for your specific needs. Remember to use the cleanser correctly by following the tips mentioned above. Happy cleansing!

Jane Livingstone
Jane Livingstone
I've been navigating the beauty and cosmetics industry for over three years. From developing skincare lines to blogging about the science behind beauty products, I've done it all.

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