When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Exfoliating Face Wash For Sensitive Skin (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a gentle and effective way to wash your sensitive skin while getting rid of dirt, oil, and dead cells, an exfoliating face wash could be the perfect solution. But before you dive in and purchase the first product you come across, make sure you consider a few important factors to ensure you’re choosing the right one for your skin type.

Firstly, it’s essential to check the ingredients of the product. Look for a face wash that is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that can irritate and dry out your skin. Instead, opt for natural and organic ingredients that are gentle and nourishing. Also, consider the exfoliating beads or particles contained within the product. Ensure they are small and smooth so they don’t scratch or damage your sensitive skin.

Another factor to consider is how often you should use an exfoliating face wash. Over-exfoliation can cause irritation and sensitivity, so it’s important to limit the use of the product to once or twice a week. Meanwhile, be sure to follow up with a gentle moisturizer to soothe and protect your skin.

Are you tired of dealing with redness, itchiness, or uneven skin texture caused by your sensitive skin? An exfoliating face wash for sensitive skin could be the solution you’ve been looking for! Stay tuned to find out our top recommendations and tips for getting the most out of this product.

10 Best Exfoliating Face Wash For Sensitive Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This face wash is ideal for reducing the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation on sensitive skin without fragrance.
2
Ideal for sensitive skin, this ultra-fine exfoliating face wash removes dead skin using safe pumice particles.
3
This exfoliating face wash is ideal for gently cleansing and removing dead skin cells without irritating sensitive skin.
4
This product is ideal for gentle exfoliation and cleansing of oily, sensitive, and acne-prone facial skin.
5
This skincare kit is ideal for revealing instantly supple and soft skin through its 3-step exfoliating, cleansing, and moisturizing process.
6
It's an organic, vegan, and antioxidant-packed facial cleanser suitable for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types.
7
It is ideal for daily cleansing, exfoliating, and preparing the skin for shaving, while also being hydrating and gentle on sensitive skin.
8
Ideal for sensitive skin, this face wash gently exfoliates with natural ingredients to promote fresh and glowing skin.
9
Ideal for daily facial cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating and moisturizing, suitable for women and men with sensitive skin.
10
Ideal for those with sensitive skin looking for an exfoliating body wash that targets acne with salicylic acid and nourishes with shea and cocoa butter.
This face wash is ideal for reducing the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation on sensitive skin without fragrance.
Ideal for sensitive skin, this ultra-fine exfoliating face wash removes dead skin using safe pumice particles.
This exfoliating face wash is ideal for gently cleansing and removing dead skin cells without irritating sensitive skin.
This product is ideal for gentle exfoliation and cleansing of oily, sensitive, and acne-prone facial skin.
This skincare kit is ideal for revealing instantly supple and soft skin through its 3-step exfoliating, cleansing, and moisturizing process.
It's an organic, vegan, and antioxidant-packed facial cleanser suitable for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types.
It is ideal for daily cleansing, exfoliating, and preparing the skin for shaving, while also being hydrating and gentle on sensitive skin.
Ideal for sensitive skin, this face wash gently exfoliates with natural ingredients to promote fresh and glowing skin.
Ideal for daily facial cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating and moisturizing, suitable for women and men with sensitive skin.
Ideal for those with sensitive skin looking for an exfoliating body wash that targets acne with salicylic acid and nourishes with shea and cocoa butter.

1. Sensitive Skin Radiance Exfoliating Cleanser

The Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is a powerful skin care product that exfoliates the skin while cleansing it. This cleanser visibly reduces the appearance of dark spots, revealing smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin. The GentleBright Complex of this cleanser is powered by 2% niacinamide (vitamin B3) and nourishing antioxidants that help reduce the appearance of dark spots, brown spots, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks to even skin tone for a brighter, more radiant complexion.

The polyhydroxy acid (PHA) used in this cleanser is gentle and safe for daily use. It removes dead skin cells without causing any irritation or discomfort. This face wash is also hypoallergenic and won't clog pores, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It is fragrance-free and gentle yet effective on the skin.

The Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is designed to defend against five signs of skin sensitivity, which include dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and weakened skin barrier. With its gentle formula, this cleanser helps to keep the skin clean, healthy, and radiant, without causing any damage or irritation.

Pros

  • Gently exfoliates while cleansing to visibly reduce the appearance of dark spots revealing smoother, clearer, more radiant skin
  • Powered by 2% niacinamide (vitamin B3) and nourishing antioxidants to reduce the appearance of dark spots, brown spots, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and post acne marks to even skin tone for a brighter, more radiant complexion
  • Sensitive skin-friendly PHA for gentle exfoliation
  • Hypoallergenic and won't clog pores
  • Defends against five signs of skin sensitivity

2. Gentle Scrub For Sensitive Skin.

The gentle face scrub is a perfect solution for those who want to exfoliate and purify their skin. This scrub contains ultra-fine pumice particles that help to remove excess dead skin cells without causing any irritation to the skin. It is specially formulated with Perlite, a powder derived from volcanic rock, which is able to absorb water or oil and provides a matte finish on the skin. Additionally, it contains glycerin to hydrate the skin and keep it moisturized. This face scrub is soap-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free, making it safe for sensitive skin.

To use, simply massage the scrub gently into wet skin 2-3 times a week for best results. With its ultra-fine particles, this scrub helps to reduce the potential for skin irritation and leaves the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Pros

  • Contains ultra-fine pumice particles which gently help remove excess dead skin cells
  • Formulated with Perlite, a powder derived from volcanic rock, which absorbs water or oil and provides a matte finish on the skin
  • Contains glycerin to help hydrate the skin
  • Soap-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free, making it safe for sensitive skin
  • Reduces the potential for skin irritation
  • Leaves the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated

3. Gentle Daily Exfoliating Face Scrub – Cetaphil

The CETAPHIL Extra Gentle Daily Scrub is a three-in-one facial scrub that cleanses, nourishes and soothes sensitive skin. This gentle scrub is designed to exfoliate the skin without causing any irritation. The micro-fine granules help to buff away dry, dull skin and support natural surface cell turnover. It removes dirt, oil and other impurities without over-drying the skin, leaving it soft and radiant.

This scrub is infused with skin conditioners and a vitamin complex that help to keep the skin comfortably hydrated. It is specially formulated for sensitive skin, and all CETAPHIL products are effective yet non-irritating. If you're looking for a gentle and nourishing facial scrub that is suitable for sensitive skin, the CETAPHIL Extra Gentle Daily Scrub is a great choice.

Pros

  • Three-in-one facial scrub that cleanses, nourishes and soothes sensitive skin
  • Micro-fine granules gently exfoliate the skin without causing irritation
  • Removes dirt, oil and impurities without over-drying the skin
  • Infused with skin conditioners and a vitamin complex that keep the skin hydrated
  • Specially formulated for sensitive skin

4. Acv Foam Exfoliating Face Wash With Brush

Achieve a deep yet gentle facial scrub with the built-in face exfoliating brush of this face wash. The silicone bristles are designed to give a thorough scrub while being gentle on the skin. With just 2-3 pumps of the daily foam face wash and 2 minutes of circular strokes, this face wash helps tighten open pores, which in turn increases skin protection.

This face wash is safe for sensitive skin and is a mild face cleaner foam cleanser that leaves the skin feeling nourished and renewed. It is an ACV face cleanser that is suitable for men, women, and teens. Say goodbye to stinging or irritating cleaners with this acne cleanser face wash.

Protect yourself against acne and blackheads with this pore cleanser. Incorporate it into your routine of facial skin care products and be more proactive with your acne treatment. This acne cleanser face wash helps reduce and control acne breakouts without overdrying the skin.

This face wash uses plant-powered natural ingredients to cleanse, hydrate, and help repair damaged skin, cracks, and blemishes. It uses vital nutrients from apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and vitamins B5 & E with no sulfates, alcohol, or other ingredients that would dry out the skin. Feel good with a brightening face wash that uses only natural ingredients.

WOW Skin Science promises customer satisfaction. If you experience any issues with this product, WOW Skin Science offers a full refund warranty. Simply contact WOW Skin Science directly through the Amazon messaging system for assistance with any questions, issues, or difficulties you encounter. WOW Skin Science strives for 100% customer satisfaction.

Pros

  • Built-in face exfoliating brush for a deep yet gentle facial scrub
  • Safe for sensitive skin
  • Helps tighten open pores to increase skin protection
  • Proactive against acne and blackheads
  • Uses natural plant-powered ingredients to cleanse, hydrate and repair skin
  • No sulfates, alcohol, or other ingredients that would dry out the skin
  • Full refund warranty

5. Supple Skin Trio: Exfoliate, Cleanse, Moisturize.

Achieve a brighter, more hydrated, and smoother complexion with The Method Intro Kit from Lancer Skincare. This facial-care kit consists of 3 gentle steps that work together to reduce signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, while promoting cell turnover and natural collagen regeneration for visibly younger skin.

The first step in this facial-care kit is the Polish exfoliator, which gently sloughs off dead skin cells and impurities, leaving the skin looking brighter and smoother. The second step is the Cleanse cleanser, which removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The third step is the Nourish moisturizer, which deeply hydrates the skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For an extra boost of hydration, the Omega Hydrating Oil can be added at the end of the routine.

To use, simply massage a small amount of the Polish exfoliator onto damp skin once daily, rinse thoroughly, and follow with the Cleanse cleanser. Rinse and pat dry, then apply the Nourish moisturizer. For an extra boost of hydration, apply the Omega Hydrating Oil if desired.

All products in this exfoliating face-scrub kit are gentle and suitable for all skin types, helping to support your skin's natural regenerative cycle. Achieve real results with Lancer Skincare's The Method 3-step face skincare system, developed by Dr. Harold Lancer, a renowned skincare expert who has created a range of serums, creams, masks, and oils that address all skin concerns.

Pros

  • Gentle and suitable for all skin types
  • Reduces signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles
  • Promotes cell turnover and natural collagen regeneration
  • Leaves skin looking brighter, more hydrated, and smoother
  • Easy-to-follow 3-step routine

Cons

  • – May be expensive for some consumers
  • – Results may vary depending on individual skin type and condition

6. Organic Face Wash For All Skin Types

The Clean Slate is a gentle and invigorating cleanser designed to meet the needs of sensitive skin. It is pH-balanced and provides a refreshing feel to all skin types. The product has been meticulously crafted, using 100% vegan, plant-based, and non-GMO ingredients. The Clean Slate is clinically proven through extensive research and clinical trials to surpass conventional methods and deliver incredible results.

This face wash contains probiotic-based extracts, clarifying plant extracts, hydrating amino acids, and mineral-rich glacial oceanic silt extracts. These biome-friendly ingredients gently clean the skin with natural ingredients instead of harsh surfactants. The Clean Slate provides a luxurious and simple way to achieve cleaner, brighter skin.

For best results, The Clean Slate can be paired with The Good to smooth and tone the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This product applies gently, leaving your skin calm and refreshed. The Clean Slate is certified MADE SAFE, which means that it has been formulated without GMOs, parabens, silicones, phthalates, aluminum or synthetic preservatives. It is also vegan and gluten-free.

Pros

  • Gentle and invigorating cleanser for sensitive skin
  • pH-balanced and refreshing feel to all skin types
  • 100% vegan, plant-based, and non-GMO ingredients
  • Clinically proven to deliver incredible results
  • Contains biome-friendly ingredients that gently clean the skin
  • Provides a luxurious and simple way to achieve cleaner, brighter skin
  • Certified MADE SAFE, formulated without harmful ingredients
  • Vegan and gluten-free

7. Gentle Hydrating Facial Cleanser For Men.

The Anthony Glycolic Facial Cleanser is a must-have for anyone with oily to normal skin. This cleanser deeply cleans, refines and clarifies oily pores, while exfoliating to control breakouts and brighten up the face. The glycolic acid, which is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid from sugar cane, is the main ingredient in this cleanser that helps to achieve a deep clean. Additionally, the chamomile in the cleanser soothes the skin and prevents irritation, making it perfect for those who want to prep for shaving while they cleanse. The cleanser lifts beard hairs for a closer shave, making it easier to get a kissable-close shave. The non-foaming lotion cleanser with aloe vera and calendula botanical extracts holds in moisture to treat dryness, keeping the skin hydrated, healthy, and clear. Vitamins A, C, and E are also strong antioxidants that protect against free radicals. This cleanser is free of parabens, phthalates, GMOs, DEA, and triclosan, making it suitable for anyone with sensitive skin. Additionally, this product is cruelty-free and has been allergy and dermatologist tested. No wonder it's a favorite with grooming experts! Anthony brand grooming products for men have been featured and won awards in Men's Health, New York Times, Forbes, GQ, and Esquire. This cleanser is also available in 850 high-end barber shops across the US and Canada.

Pros

  • Deeply cleans and refines oily pores
  • Exfoliates to control breakouts and brighten up the face
  • Soothes the skin and prevents irritation
  • Lifts beard hairs for a closer shave
  • Non-foaming lotion cleanser holds in moisture to treat dryness
  • Vitamins A, C, and E are strong antioxidants that protect against free radicals
  • Free of parabens, phthalates, GMOs, DEA, and triclosan
  • Cruelty-free and has been allergy and dermatologist tested

8. Radiant Skin Exfoliating Face Wash" By Botanic Tree.

Achieve smooth and clean skin with this gentle exfoliating cleanser that is perfect for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. Formulated with Bakuchiol, 10% glycolic, and salicylic acid, this cleanser effectively reduces acne and dark spots while gently removing makeup and oil without drying out your skin. It works as a cleanser and toner, resurfacing and nourishing aging skin for a more youthful appearance.

Experience the power of Bakuchiol, a natural antioxidant that behaves like retinol. It stimulates skin cell turnover, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin tone and texture. This cleanser also contains glycolic acid, which removes dead skin and minimizes pores, leaving your skin feeling smooth and clean.

Say goodbye to breakouts from acne with this exfoliating face wash that is formulated with both glycolic and salicylic acid. It is the perfect acne treatment for those who suffer from hormonal or cystic acne. Best for adults and teenagers who want soft and smooth skin without burning or drying out their skin.

This 10% glycolic and salicylic acid cleanser penetrates deep to exfoliate and brighten sensitive skin, revealing a glowing complexion. It is sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA, ensuring that you are using a high-quality product that is gentle on your skin. Use it 2-5 times a week with your skincare routine and notice results in only 1 week.

Pros

  • Formulated with Bakuchiol, 10% glycolic, and salicylic acid for effective reduction of acne and dark spots
  • Gentle yet effective glycolic peel removes makeup and oil without drying out your skin
  • Works as a cleanser and toner, resurfacing and nourishing aging skin for a more youthful appearance
  • Contains glycolic acid that removes dead skin and minimizes pores, leaving your skin feeling smooth and clean
  • Formulated with both glycolic and salicylic acid, making it the perfect acne treatment for those who suffer from hormonal or cystic acne
  • Sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin

9. All-Natural Anti-Aging Facial Cleanser

Eavara's Anti-Aging Face Cleanser is an award-winning product that was voted the Best Anti-Aging Skin Care Brand by The American Choice Awards. It is a reliable and effective solution for those looking to combat signs of aging. The face cleanser is designed to remove impurities and deeply nourish the skin. The unique blend of natural ingredients, including Tamanu and coconut oils, helps to unclog pores and hydrate the skin. Green tea is used to fight free radicals that accelerate the skin's aging. Activated charcoal is added to detoxify the skin and boost collagen formation, resulting in better elasticity and firmness.

The natural ingredients used in this face cleanser are carefully selected to help your skin glow. It uses nature's best plant-based ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, green tea, tamanu oil, and orange peel oil.

Eavara's Anti-Aging Face Cleanser is gentle on sensitive skin. The use of pure, natural, and organic ingredients with no harsh chemicals ensures that it is gentle on the skin. It is a perfect daily face wash for women and men that is hydrating, moisturizing, and nourishing.

Eavara is committed to providing organic skin care products that are made with the finest botanical ingredients sourced in Hawaii. Their products are always paraben-free, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free. They are developed with no animal testing and made in the USA.

Pros

  • Award-winning product that was voted the Best Anti-Aging Skin Care Brand by The American Choice Awards
  • Removes impurities and deeply nourishes the skin while combating signs of aging
  • Contains natural and organic ingredients such as Tamanu and coconut oils, green tea, and activated charcoal
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Paraben-free, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free

10. Acne-Fighting Body Wash With Shea & Cocoa Butter.

Introducing the Proactiv Acne Body Wash, a body wash that is specially designed to combat acne on the body. This body wash is enriched with concentrated vitamin E and gentle exfoliating microbeads that work together to cleanse and nourish the skin. The salicylic acid in the formula helps to shed dead skin cells and unclog pores, making it easier for the skin to breathe. The body wash also includes shea butter, sweet almond oil, cocoa butter, and aloe vera extract that help to soften and soothe the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and refreshed.

This gentle formula is safe for daily use and is suitable for all skin types. It is an effective solution for both teens and adults who are looking for a solution to their acne problems. With Proactiv Acne Body Wash, you can enjoy clear, healthy-looking skin that is free from acne and other skin problems.

Say goodbye to acne and hello to clear, healthy-looking skin with Proactiv Acne Body Wash.

Pros

  • Enriched with concentrated vitamin E and gentle exfoliating microbeads
  • Formulated with salicylic acid to help shed dead skin cells and unclog pores
  • Includes shea butter, sweet almond oil, cocoa butter, and aloe vera extract to help soothe and soften the skin
  • Gentle enough for daily use
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • An effective solution for both teens and adults

Best Exfoliating Face Wash For Sensitive Skin FAQs

Are there any natural or organic exfoliating face wash options for sensitive skin?

Yes, there are several natural and organic exfoliating face wash options available for sensitive skin. These options are gentle on the skin and free from harsh chemicals that may cause irritation or damage to the skin. Some of the natural exfoliating ingredients that can be used in face washes include jojoba beads, rice powder, oatmeal, and sugar. These ingredients work by gently removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. Some popular natural face wash options for sensitive skin include the Acure Brightening Facial Scrub, the Yes To Coconut Ultra Hydrating Exfoliating Cleanser, and the Burt's Bees Peach and Willow Bark Deep Pore Scrub. When choosing an exfoliating face wash for sensitive skin, it's important to read the label carefully and avoid any ingredients that may cause irritation. Additionally, it's recommended to test the product on a small area of skin before using it on the entire face to ensure that it is suitable for your skin type.

Can using an exfoliating face wash on sensitive skin cause irritation or damage?

Yes, using an exfoliating face wash on sensitive skin can cause irritation or damage. Exfoliating face washes contain abrasive ingredients that are meant to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. However, these ingredients can also be harsh on sensitive skin, causing redness, dryness, and even breakouts. It is important to choose an exfoliating face wash that is gentle and specifically designed for sensitive skin. Look for products that contain natural exfoliants like sugar or jojoba beads, rather than harsh chemicals like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). It is also important to use an exfoliating face wash in moderation, no more than two or three times a week, and to follow up with a gentle moisturizer to soothe and hydrate the skin. If you experience any irritation or discomfort after using an exfoliating face wash, discontinue use immediately and consult with a dermatologist.

How often should someone with sensitive skin use an exfoliating face wash?

For someone with sensitive skin, it's important to be cautious when it comes to exfoliating. While exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and reveal a fresher, brighter complexion, it can also be too harsh and cause irritation or inflammation.

Generally, it's recommended that someone with sensitive skin should use an exfoliating face wash no more than once or twice a week. It's important to choose a gentle exfoliating product that won't strip the skin of its natural oils, and to avoid using any products with abrasive particles or harsh chemicals.

It's also important to pay attention to how your skin reacts to exfoliating. If you notice any redness, dryness, or irritation, it may be a sign that you're exfoliating too often or using a product that is too harsh for your skin. In this case, it's best to reduce the frequency of exfoliation or switch to a gentler product.

Ultimately, the key to caring for sensitive skin is to listen to your body and pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and treatments. With a little bit of trial and error, you can find the right exfoliating routine that works for you and helps keep your skin looking and feeling healthy and radiant.

What are some popular brands of exfoliating face washes that are safe for sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin requires special care and attention when it comes to choosing skincare products, including exfoliating face washes. Fortunately, there are several popular brands that offer gentle yet effective exfoliating face washes that are safe for sensitive skin.

One of the most popular brands is Cetaphil, which offers a range of gentle exfoliating face washes that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Another popular brand is Aveeno, which offers several exfoliating face washes that are enriched with natural ingredients like soy and oatmeal to soothe and soften sensitive skin.

Neutrogena is another brand that offers gentle exfoliating face washes that are safe for sensitive skin. Their products are formulated with mild ingredients like glycolic acid and salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin.

Lastly, La Roche-Posay is a popular brand that offers gentle exfoliating face washes that are perfect for sensitive skin. Their products are formulated with thermal spring water and other natural ingredients to soothe and hydrate the skin while gently exfoliating to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion.

When choosing an exfoliating face wash for sensitive skin, it's essential to look for products that are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances and are specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

What are the best ingredients to look for in an exfoliating face wash for sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin can be a challenge to take care of, especially when it comes to exfoliating. Choosing the right ingredients in an exfoliating face wash can make all the difference. When looking for a face wash for sensitive skin, it's important to choose ingredients that are gentle and won't irritate the skin. Some of the best ingredients to look for in an exfoliating face wash for sensitive skin include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and enzymes like papain and bromelain. AHAs and BHAs exfoliate the skin by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, while enzymes dissolve the dead skin cells. Other ingredients to look for include jojoba beads, which are gentle and won't scratch the skin, and oatmeal, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe the skin. It's also important to avoid harsh abrasives like walnut shells, which can cause micro-tears in the skin and lead to irritation. Overall, choosing a gentle exfoliating face wash with the right ingredients can help keep sensitive skin looking and feeling healthy.

Leave a Comment