Best Face Wash for Men

It can be tempting to use regular soap when washing your face. Soap is soap, right? Not quite.

Regular soap can be fine for your skin, but it can dry out your face if you use it on your face. This is partly due to the fact that your skin is thinner and more delicate than the rest. According to Barry D. Goldman MD, a dermatologist who is board-certified, bar soap has a pH level that is higher than your skin. This can cause skin to lose its natural moisturizing elements.

Bar soap can cause skin to become dry, red and itchy over time. Goldman says that skin may feel tighter and lose its natural elasticity.

Different cleanser brands can offer different benefits, depending on what one you use. All of them have one thing in common: clearer, cleaner skin. Although products targeted at men might offer some additional benefits for their skin, which is slightly different from that of female skin, don’t let this get in the way of what it does. Instead, pay attention to ingredients and products that are made for your skin type.

Continue reading to find out our top picks and simple tips for getting the best from your face wash.

We has compiled a list of the top face washes for men.

• For oily skin, Clinique pour Men Oil Control Facewash
• For acne-prone skin, L’Oreal Men Expert Extreme Cleanser Infused With Charcoal
• Best clarifying facial wash: Brickell Clarifying gel face wash
• The best budget-friendly option to sensitive skin: Bulldog Haircare Sensitive Skin Wash
• The best splurge to treat sensitive skin is Anthony Algae Facial Cleanser
• The best way to combat redness is Paula’s Choice PC4MEN
• For dry skin, Nivea Men Moisturizing Facial Wash
• For normal-to-dry skin, Dove Men’s Care Hydrate + Facial Wash
• Best cleanser/toner combination: Jack Black Pure Daily Facial Cleanser
• For normal skin, Men’s Multi-Action Facewash
• Best drugstore facial wash: Cetaphil Gentle Facial Cleanser
• Best natural facial wash: andalou Naturals Men Refreshing Facial Wash with CannaCell
• Use with facial hair: Lush Kalamazoo
• Best Scent: Every Man Jack Face + Beardwash
• The most energizing: Kiehl’s Facial Fuel
• The best facial wipes for oily skin and acne-prone skin are Everyman Jack Activated Charcoal Facial Washes
• Most gym bag-worthy: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths

How we choose

These products were chosen based on:

• Ingredients. Our search for face washes with beneficial ingredients that live up to their claims led us to
• Online reviews. We looked at reviews and ratings on various retail websites.
• Accessibility and affordability. Many products are available at a local pharmacy or online.

Pricing guide

• $ = under $10
• $$ = $10-$20
• $$$ = more than $20

Comparison table

ProductPriceKey ingredientsProsCons

Clinique for Men Oil Control Face Wash $$$ Aloe vera gel, salicylic acid * Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial

* may contain salicylic acid which can be helpful in treating acne

* oil-free * contains sodium laureth sulfate

* Expensive

undefined $ Salicylic acid and charcoal powder * charcoal and salicylic acid may be used to treat acne

* budget-friendly * Strong scents may not be suitable for everyone

undefined $$$ Aloe vera, gotu Kola, Geranium oil * Safe for all skin types

* Mostly natural and organic ingredients * Scent may not be suitable for all

undefined $ Baobab oil, oat Oil, and omega-3 fatty Acids * Ideal for sensitive skin, fragrance-free

* includes ingredients that soothe dry skin and eczema * Some people may not like thick consistency

* Not recommended if you prefer a scented face wash

Anthony Algae Facial Cleanser $$$ algae, aloe, lavender * safe for sensitive skin

* dermatologist-tested

* Free of parabens and phthalates, gluten. * Expensive

Paula’s Choice PC4MEN $$ coco glucoside, aloe * Gentle on sensitive skin

Redness can be reduced by using aloe vera * Some reviewers have mentioned defective packaging

Nivea Men Moisturizing Face Wash $ provitamin B5, glycerin * budget-friendly

* Available in all stores

* paraben-free

* cruelty-free * People with sensitive skin might find menthol irritating

undefined $ Cetearyl alcohol, stearic Acid, lauric acid * Cheap

* is available in most shops * Fragrance and oils may not be suitable to acne-prone skin

undefined $$$ Glycerin, sage leaf extract * Doubles the toner

* Fragrance-, oil- and sulfate free * Rosemary extract can irritate sensitive skin and eczema.

undefined $$$ Glycerin, peppermint oils * Good for all skin types

* A little product can go a long distance * Expensive

* The peppermint and minthol cooling effects aren’t for everyone

Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser $ Vitamin E, panthenol * Cheap

* Easy to find

* well-reviewed * Some consumers report that it leaves a film.

undefined $ Hemp seed oil and hemp stem cells * All natural

* For all skin types

* A little goes a long ways * Only available in small tubes

Lush Kalamazoo $$ Almond oil, pineapple enzymes, and jojoba oils * beard-friendly

* softens facial hair

* Ethical sourcing and recycled packaging * Some may find the scent overwhelming

Every Man Jack Face + Beard Wash $$ Glycerin and aloe vera * beard-friendly

* For all skin types

* Scents receive rave reviews * Not ideal for people who prefer unscented

undefined $$ caffeine, menthol, vitamin E * For all skin types

* Paraben-free, alcohol-free * Sensitive skin may be irritated by a tingling sensation

undefined $ Salicylic acid, activated charcoal, glycerin and aloe vera gel * Convenient; rinse immediately after use

* Designed for oily or acne-prone skin

* Paraben- and Phthalate-Free Pi * Salicylic acid can irritate sensitive skin

undefined $ Glycerin, Aloe vera * Convenient and affordable

* Dermatologist developed and tested

* For all skin types

* Can be used on the body and face * contains parabens

Best Face Wash For Men

Ideal for oily skin

Clinique for Men Oil Control Face Wash

• Price: $$$
• Key ingredients: aloe, salicylic acid
• The key features of won’t clog pores, is oil-free and gluten-free

This oil-free and gluten-free facewash contains aloe. Although aloe vera is known for its soothing and calming properties, it also contains some salticylic acid which has antibacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera is especially helpful for oily skin because it can remove bacteria and unclog pores.

This product contains sodium laureth and sulfate. Although it isn’t harmful in small quantities, some people may experience irritation.

Pros

• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties
• Salicylic acid can be used to treat acne.
• It’s oil-free, won’t clog pores and isn’t messy

Cons

• contiennent sodium laureth-sulfate. This may cause irritation for some people

Best for acne-prone skin

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• Price: $
• The key ingredients are charcoal powder and salicylic acid
• The key features of fights oily skin, blackheads

This face wash contains salicylic Acid to reduce inflammation and bacteria. This face wash also contains oak charcoal, which can help draw out bacteria from the pores and reduce breakouts.

A 2019 study showed that charcoal masks can improve skin cleansing by temporarily enlarging the pores for a deeper clean.

It has a strong smell, according to some consumers.

Pros

• salicylic acid is a treatment for acne.
• charcoal, which can help with skin conditions such as acne.
• budget-friendly

Cons

• Some users say it has strong smells.

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Best clarifying facial wash

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• Price: $$$
• Key ingredients: geranium oil, gotu kola, aloe
• The key features of Brightens the skin, safe for all skin types

Although this is the most expensive option on our list, users love that a little goes quite a distance. It’s also packed with acne-fighting ingredients such as geranium oils, and aloe. It also contains gotukola extract which can boost collagen production and reduce scarring.

This face wash is cruelty-free, made with organic ingredients and free from phthalates. The Environmental Working Group states that phthalates can cause hormonal changes and decreased sperm counts.

Pros

• All skin types can use it
• 97.5 percent natural, 72% organic

Cons

• Some consumers described the fragrance as “too fragrant”

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Sensitive skin: Best value for money

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• Price: $
• The key ingredients are oat oil and baobab oil.
• Features: Safe for sensitive skin. No fragrance

This face wash contains oat and baobab oil. It is fragrance-free and anti-inflammatory. Baobab and oat oils are great for soothing itchy, dry and irritated skin. It also contains Omega-3 fatty acids which can moisturize and soothe the skin.

Bulldog products can be used vegan or cruelty-free.

Pros

• fragrance-free
• safe for sensitive skin
• It contains ingredients that soothe dry skin and eczema

Cons

• Some reviewers don’t like the scent or thick consistency.

Best splurge for sensitive skin

Anthony Algae Facial Cleanser

• Price: $$$
• Key ingredients: algae, aloe, lavender
• Key features: allergen- and dermatologist-tested, safe for sensitive skin

This high-end cleanser is worth every penny if you have sensitive skin. It has been dermatologist-tested, without parabens or phthalates, and completely free of gluten, triclosan and GMOs. Aloe vera, lavender, and aloe vera are skin-loving ingredients that nourish, soothe, moisturize, and cleanse your skin.

Research indicates that algae may have anti-inflammatory and antiaging skin benefits.

It doubles up as a hydrating mask for the face.

Pros

• safe for sensitive skin
• allergen and dermatologist tested
• Free of parabens and phthalates, gluten.

Cons

• Cost

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Ideal for fighting redness

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• Price: $$
• Key ingredients: coco glucoside, aloe
• K Features: No fragrance, gentle, won’t clog pores

This Paula’s Choice facial wash is fragrance-free and contains coco glucoside (derived from coconut). It is gentle enough to wash away oil and dirt without drying your skin. Aloe vera soothes and reduces the appearance of redness.

Customers report great results with sensitive and dry skin.

Pros

• Gentle on sensitive skin
• reduces redness
• paraben-free
• cruelty-free

Cons

• several reviews mention defective packaging

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Best for dry skin

Nivea Men Moisturizing Face Wash

• Price: $
• Key ingredients provitamin A5, glycerin
• Features: Hydrates dry skin and locks it in moisture

This face wash contains two humectants, glycerin (provitamin B5). Humectants attract water to the skin and bring it back in moisture. A 2013 study confirmed that glycerin could be used to treat dry skin. A 2016 study deemed glycerin to be the best humectant.

This face wash contains menthol, which has a cooling effect. This sensation is pleasant for some, but it can be irritating for those with sensitive skin.

Pros

• budget-friendly
• Available in all major stores

Cons

• People with sensitive skin might find the tingling sensation of menthol irritating.

Ideal for normal-to dry skin

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• Price: $
• Key ingredients lauric acid and stearic acids, cetearyl alcohol
• Features: Moisturizers are great for dry skin.

This face wash contains lauric Acid, which is a naturally occurring lipid in coconut oil, as well as a fatty alcohol called cearyl alcohol. Both of these can help moisturize the skin.

This may be the right choice if you are looking for a daily face wash that is affordable for dry skin types or seasonal dryness.

It also contains stearic Acid, which is a surfactant. Surfactants reduce the water’s surface tension, which allows it to mix with dirt and oil and wash them away.

Many customers have reported a pleasant, mild scent.

It has oils and fragrances, so it may not be the best option if your skin is sensitive.

Pros

• Cheap
• You can find them in most shops

Cons

• Ingredients can include fragrance and oils that may not be suitable to treat acne.

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Combination of cleanser and toner that is the best

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• Price: $$$
• Key ingredients: sage leaf extract, glycerin
• Features: No fragrance, no sulfate, no oil, and leaves skin shave-ready

This cleanser is fragrance-free and sulfate free. It also doesn’t contain any oil. It also contains sage extract. Studies have shown that scalerol, which can be found in sage may help combat signs of aging.

It also contains chamomile oil for soothing effects and witch hazel, which can be used as a natural toner.

Rosemary extract can also be found in this face wash, which can cause irritation for people with sensitive skin.

Pros

• Doubles as a cleanser/toner
• It doesn’t contain any fragrance, oil, or other sulfates

Cons

• contains rosemary extract, which can irritate sensitive skin and eczema.

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Best for normal skin

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• Price: $$$
• The key ingredients are glycerin and peppermint oil
• Features: Safe for all skin types. Gentle exfoliating action. Cooling sensation.

This face wash is suitable for all skin types. It has a slightly rough texture that removes dead skin cells. This face wash moisturizes skin with glycerin, while peppermint oil and menthol extract give it a refreshing sensation.

This product is more expensive and comes in a smaller, almost travel-sized tub. Users say that a little goes quite a distance.

Pros

• All skin types are suitable
• A little product can go a long distance

Cons

• Brands are more expensive than others
• Not everyone likes the cooling sensation of peppermint or menthol.

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Best drugstore facewash

Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser

• Price: $
• The key ingredients are Vitamin E, Panthenol
• Features: Hypoallergenic, safe and suitable for sensitive skin

You are likely to know someone who uses this cleanser. This cleanser is hypoallergenic and gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin.

It’s easy to use, but still tough on oil and dirt. It’s also easy to find in most shops and it’s affordable. Many dermatologists recommend it.

Some customers report that the product leaves a thin film on their skin.

Pros

• Cheap
• It is easy to find
• One of the most popular face washes

Cons

• Some consumers claim it leaves a film on their skin

Natural face wash that is gentle and effective

Andalou Naturals Men’s Refreshing Facewash with CannaCell

• Price: $
• The key ingredients are hemp oil and hemp stem cells
• The key features of All-natural, effective and suitable for all skin types

This all-natural cleanser contains hemp seed oil and hemp stem cell extracts to deliver vitamins and antioxidants. Aloe vera is also included to soothe and soften the skin.

The skin feels energized and refreshed by mint leaf oil and citrus extracts.

It has been rated very by EWG. Products are rated based on safety of ingredients.

Although it’s tiny and only available in small tubes, users claim that a small amount can go a long distance.

Pros

• All natural
• All skin types are eligible
• A little bit of product can go a long ways

Cons

• Only available in small tubes

Use facial hair as a top-of-the-line product

Lush Kalamazoo

• Price: $$
• Key ingredients pineapple enzymes and almond oil.
• The key features of are acts, a beard shampoo and softener.

This double-use face wash can be used to cleanse your skin and beard. The combination of almond with Jojoba oil softens and cleans facial hair.

According to user reviews, the majority of them are positive. People without beards love the softness and cleanliness it leaves their skin.

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Pros

• Cleanses skin and beard
• softens facial hair
• Ethical sourcing and recycled packaging

Cons

• Most users love the fragrance, but some find it too strong.

The best smelling

Every Man Jack Face + Beard Wax

• Price: $$
• Key ingredients: aloe, glycerin
• The key features of is suitable for all skin types, and all beard sizes

This wash by Every Man Jack is another all-in-one product. It cleanses and hydrates. It has beneficial ingredients such as aloe vera and glycerin, which help to soothe and soften beards.

You can get it in different scents, which, although subtle, are highly praised.

It is ethically manufactured in the United States, and contains a majority of natural or plant-based ingredients.

Pros

• Use it as a facial or beard wash
• All skin types and sizes of beards are suitable
• The scents receive rave reviews

Cons

• Some reviewers didn’t like it

Most energizing

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel

• Price: $$
• Key ingredients: caffeine, menthol, vitamin E
• Features: For all skin types, paraben and alcohol-free

This product contains ingredients such as caffeine and menthol. It’s easy to see why it is called “invigorating”, refreshing, and “energizing.” Vitamin E protects your skin from the effects of aging and provides moisture.

It is paraben-free as well as alcohol-free.

Some people might not like the mild tingling sensation this face wash creates.

Pros

• Safe for all skin types
• Paraben-free, alcohol-free

Cons

• People with sensitive skin may find the tingling sensation irritating.

The best facial wipes for oily or acne-prone skin

Every Man Jack Charcoal Facial Wipes

• Price: $
• Features: Convenient, won’t clog pores. Designed for oily or acne-prone skin
• The key ingredients areactivated Charcoal, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, and Aloe Vera

These facial wipes can be used to provide oily or acne-prone skin a gentle, but thorough clean.

Aloe vera soothes the skin and activated carbon removes bacteria and dirt from pores.

It does not contain parabens, dyes, phthalates, or harmful chemicals.

Pros

• It’s convenient and you don’t need to rinse it afterward
• Designed for oily or acne-prone skin
• Paraben- and Phthalate-Free

Cons

• Salicylic acid can cause dryness and irritation.

The best gym bags

Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Cloths

• Price: $
• Key features: convenient, dermatologist-developed and tested, non-comedogenic, safe for sensitive skin
• Key ingredients: glycerin, aloe

These wipes are great for sensitive skin and can be used on-the-go to wash your face. They can be used on all parts of the body so they are worthy of a place in your gym bag.

As you cleanse, aloe vera and glycerin moisturize and soothe your skin.

Based on over 26,000 reviews, they have a 4.6 star Amazon rating.

They are dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone with acne-prone skin.

Pros

• convenient
• Cheap
• Dermatologist developed and tested
• Suitable for sensitive skin, but can be used on any skin type
• Can be used on the body and face

Cons

• contains parabens

Different types of cleansers

There are many different cleansers that can be used for your face. Usually, you will find:

• Creams. Cream cleansers can be used for sensitive, normal or dry skin. They are thick and moisturizing.
• Gels. These gel cleansers have a jelly-like consistency and can be used on oily or normal skin.
• Foams. foam cleansers are usually in a pump-type bottle. They work well on oily or combination skin types and lather easily.

There are also scrubs that can be made by some brands. These scrubs have a gritty texture or beads texture to help remove dead skin cells. These scrubs are not recommended for daily use as they can cause skin irritation if used excessively.

Bar soap that is specifically made for facial skin can also be found.

How to shop

Start by looking at your skin type when searching for a facewash. There will be products that are targeted at certain skin types.

You can determine what kind of skin you have by looking at how your skin feels after a shower.

Oily skin types will notice a shiny, oily appearance to their skin. Dry skin types will see flakiness and rough patches. Normal skin is neither oily or dry, and combination skin falls somewhere in the middle.

Also, consider the cost of the product and your skin care routine. Many ace washes can be purchased for as low as $10. You can always check the ingredients if you find one that is more expensive.

How to use

Although it may take some trial and error before you find the right routine, many people have success washing their faces twice daily.

You may need to wash your skin more often if you live in hot areas or exercise regularly. Sweating can cause skin irritation and breakouts.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should use lukewarm water to wash your skin. You should also wash your face with your fingertips, as vigorously rubbing with a towel or using a washcloth can cause skin irritation. Instead of rubbing, pat-dry.

Safety

Always do a patch test before you try a new product.

Apply a small amount of the product to your wrist, and wait for 24 hours. Do not use the product if you notice any redness, itching or burning. You should feel normal if your skin appears normal.

A lot of men ask questions about the best face wash for them.

What is the difference between male and feminine face wash?

Brands have different ingredients and formulations, making it difficult to identify differences between products that are marketed for men. Manufacturers may consider the differences in skin types and common preferences and needs of male and female customers.

“Men’s skin tends to be thicker than that of women.” Goldman also says that men have bigger pores.

Regular shaving and hormones can also cause skin differences in men and women.

Goldman says that men prefer simpler routines, such as one product that does all the work. Goldman says that half of men use the exact same soap for their skin as on their bodies, which can lead to dryness and irritation.

Can men use women’s skin products?

Goldman says that “in short, men can use products targeted at women as tolerated”

It all comes down to selecting the right ingredients for your skin.

Goldman says that while I don’t believe men need to have their own product lines, they should determine their skin type and find products that suit them.

Can women use the same face wash as men?

Yes, again. But, it is important to focus on your skin type and then your preferences.

You can do your research on a product before you buy it. This will help you determine if the product is right for you. To find out what the product is supposed to do, check the manufacturer’s website.

Takeaway

A face wash that is specifically designed for facial skin can have great results and keep your skin healthy and clean.

You should look for products that are made specifically for your skin type. Also, be sure to check for ingredients that can control oil and moisturize dry skin. Before you try any new product, always do a patch test.