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 Water Based Facial Cleanser (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a gentle yet effective way to cleanse your face, a water-based facial cleanser is a great option. But before you make a purchase, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about your skin type. If you have oily skin, you may want a cleanser that targets excess oil production. If you have dry skin, look for a cleanser that will hydrate and nourish your skin. Next, consider any specific concerns you may have, such as acne or anti-aging. Look for a cleanser that targets those concerns.

It's important to read reviews and do your research before buying a water-based facial cleanser. Look for ingredients that are gentle on your skin, such as aloe vera, glycerin, and chamomile. Avoid ingredients like sulfates and alcohol, which can be drying and irritating.

Are you tired of harsh chemical cleansers that leave your skin feeling tight and dry? Do you want a cleanser that will gently purify and refresh your skin? Look no further than a water-based facial cleanser. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. But with a little research and consideration, you'll be able to find the perfect cleanser for your needs. So why wait? Start your journey to cleaner, clearer skin today!

10 Best Water Based Facial Cleanser

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for people with oily skin, large pores, and looking for anti-aging benefits due to its formula containing hyaluronic acid and aloe.
2
Ideal for daily use as a gentle, hydrating cleanser suitable for oily and sensitive skin, capable of removing makeup and sunscreen.
3
VI Derm Hydrating Gentle Purifying Cleanser is ideal for daily use with its nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera and antioxidants.
4
This product is ideal for women's gentle exfoliating face wash, natural enzyme cleansing with cranberry, yucca, vitamin E, and aloe.
5
This gentle facial cleanser is ideal for sensitive, normal, and dry skin types looking for a hydrating and fragrance-free option.
6
It is ideal for those who want a gentle, daily facial cleanser that removes makeup, dirt, and impurities without causing breakouts.
7
This facial cleanser is ideal for removing makeup, dirt, and oil while leaving the skin feeling fresh and non-clogged.
8
The product is an exfoliating gel that removes dead skin for a brighter and youthful appearance on both face and body.
9
This facial cleanser is ideal for removing oil and dead skin cells, and is safe for all skin types including sensitive skin.
10
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
The product is ideal for people with oily skin, large pores, and looking for anti-aging benefits due to its formula containing hyaluronic acid and aloe.
Ideal for daily use as a gentle, hydrating cleanser suitable for oily and sensitive skin, capable of removing makeup and sunscreen.
VI Derm Hydrating Gentle Purifying Cleanser is ideal for daily use with its nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera and antioxidants.
This product is ideal for women's gentle exfoliating face wash, natural enzyme cleansing with cranberry, yucca, vitamin E, and aloe.
This gentle facial cleanser is ideal for sensitive, normal, and dry skin types looking for a hydrating and fragrance-free option.
It is ideal for those who want a gentle, daily facial cleanser that removes makeup, dirt, and impurities without causing breakouts.
This facial cleanser is ideal for removing makeup, dirt, and oil while leaving the skin feeling fresh and non-clogged.
The product is an exfoliating gel that removes dead skin for a brighter and youthful appearance on both face and body.
This facial cleanser is ideal for removing oil and dead skin cells, and is safe for all skin types including sensitive skin.
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.

1. Anti-Aging Foaming Cleanser With Hyaluronic Acid

Achieve a perfectly balanced skin with Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Anti-Aging Facial Cleanser. This face wash visibly reduces enlarged pores and refreshes the skin. It contains replenishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid that conditions the skin to leave it exceptionally smooth and clear. It is formulated to gently remove makeup and excess oil, leaving the skin washed clean but never tight or dry. This face wash also contains sunflower seed oil and aloe that keeps the skin supple and youthful. Use this 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 moisturizer with SPF for daytime wear. Paula's Choice Skincare makes products that work and are backed by science. Their product line includes treatments for various skin concerns, such as dryness, acne, fine lines, and sensitive skin. Say goodbye to your skin care concerns and say hello to amazing skin with Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Anti-Aging Facial Cleanser.

This balancing face wash is formulated with nourishing ingredients that help to condition the skin, leaving it smooth and clear. It is also effective in reducing enlarged pores, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin. The formula is gentle and non-drying, making it suitable for all skin types. The cleanser is packaged in a convenient container that is easy to use and store. The sunflower seed oil and aloe in the formula help to keep the skin supple and youthful, while the hyaluronic acid helps to hydrate and condition the skin. Use this cleanser as part of your daily skin care routine to achieve a perfectly balanced, refreshed complexion.

Looking for a face wash that will leave your skin feeling perfectly balanced and refreshed? Look no further than Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Anti-Aging Facial Cleanser. This gentle but effective cleanser is formulated with nourishing ingredients like sunflower seed oil and aloe to help keep your skin looking youthful and supple. It also contains hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and condition your skin, leaving it feeling exceptionally smooth and clear. Use this face wash twice daily as part of your skin care routine, and pair it with your favorite Paula's Choice toner, exfoliator, serums, spot treatments, and moisturizer with SPF for daytime wear. With Paula's Choice Skincare, you can trust that you're getting effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. Say goodbye to dryness, acne, fine lines, and sensitive skin, and hello to amazing skin with Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Anti-Aging Facial Cleanser.

Pros

  • Visibly reduces enlarged pores and refreshes the skin
  • Contains nourishing ingredients like sunflower seed oil and aloe to keep the skin supple and youthful
  • Formulated with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and condition the skin
  • Gentle and non-drying formula suitable for all skin types
  • Convenient packaging that is easy to use and store
  • Effective in achieving a perfectly balanced, refreshed complexion

2. Equalrxn Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser

The Gentle Foaming Cleanser is a water-based and rich-foaming cleanser designed to clean the face without stripping it off of its natural oils. The cleanser is formulated with an ultra-gentle yet highly efficient amino acid surfactant system. This system helps to remove surface oil, dirt, and sunscreen residue. It is a non-stripping cleanser that cleanses and hydrates the skin without leaving a stripped and tight feeling. This cleansing foam can be used as a makeup remover and a daily cleanser. However, it is essential to be careful while using it around the eyes to prevent irritation.

The Hydrating Face Wash is formulated with 10% glycerin, a golden humectant that prevents water loss, supports hydration, and barrier health. After washing, the face does not feel tacky or slippery. This face wash works best for all skin types, especially for those who are sensitive. The sensi-regulator 4-t-butylcyclohexanol and four phyto-based calming ingredients help to increase the skin’s tolerance capacity.

The non-stripping cleanser for the face has a higher capacity complex that provides antioxidant protection. This cleanser is gentle, and it hydrates the skin without leaving a stripped and tight feeling. The cleanser is perfect for all skin types, especially for those who are sensitive.

The Gentle Foaming Cleanser is a great makeup and sunscreen remover. This daily cleanser is designed to remove surface oil, dirt, and sunscreen residue. However, it is essential to avoid using it around the eyes to prevent irritation.

The product is perfect for all skin types, especially for those with sensitive skin. The Gentle Foaming Cleanser's sensi-regulator 4-t-butylcyclohexanol and four phyto-based calming ingredients help to increase the skin’s tolerance capacity. The Hydrating Face Wash is great for all skin types, and it contains 10% glycerin, which supports hydration and barrier health. The non-stripping cleanser for the face has a higher capacity complex that provides antioxidant protection.

Pros

  • Contains 10% glycerin that supports hydration and barrier health
  • The cleanser is gentle and non-stripping
  • Formulated with an ultra-gentle yet highly efficient amino acid surfactant system
  • Provides antioxidant protection
  • Great for all skin types, especially sensitive skin

Cons

  • – Should be avoided around the eyes to prevent irritation

3. Aloe Antioxidant Cleanser With Willow Bark, 4oz.

This product is a skincare solution that contains Aloe Vera, Antioxidants, Willow Bark Extract, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E). Aloe Vera is known for its ability to soothe, soften, hydrate, and prevent Trans-Epidermal Water Loss. The Antioxidants in this product are a proprietary blend that helps protect the skin from environmental damage. Willow Bark Extract buffs away dead skin cells, calms inflammation, and soothes redness for a clearer complexion. Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) is a potent antioxidant that can protect and repair the skin. This product is cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly.

Looking for a product that can help soothe and soften your skin while also protecting it from environmental damage? This skincare solution contains a proprietary blend of antioxidants, Aloe Vera, Willow Bark Extract, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) that work together to provide a range of benefits. Aloe Vera is known for its hydrating and soothing properties, while Willow Bark Extract helps to buff away dead skin cells and reduce inflammation. Antioxidants protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) can help repair and protect the skin. This product is also cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly, so you can feel good about using it on your skin.

Pros

  • Contains Aloe Vera for soothing and hydrating the skin
  • Antioxidants protect the skin from environmental damage
  • Willow Bark Extract helps to buff away dead skin cells and reduce inflammation
  • Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) can help repair and protect the skin
  • Cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly

4. Purely Purifying Water-Based Cleanser For Women

The Gentle Face Wash is a pH-balanced cleanser that is formulated with white tea. This delicate foam cleanses, tones, and purifies the skin, leaving it moisturized, fresh, and non-greasy. This face wash is perfect for sensitive skin as it does not strip, dry, or irritate it. It is a natural ingredient, gentle, exfoliating, and hydrating cleanser that is suitable for all skin types.

The Enzyme Cleanser is a water-based cleanser that contains white tea, cranberry, raspberry, mango extracts, and moisturizing shea butter. It is rich in antioxidants that help combat damaging free radicals. This facial cleanser is ideal for dry skin and all skin types as it is super gentle, yet deep cleansing and exfoliating. It is perfect for people with sensitive skin.

The Clean Face Wash is an antioxidant-rich cleanser that does not contain mineral oil, phthalates, SLS, or detergents. This gentle face wash is vegan, Leaping Bunny certified, and cruelty-free. It is suitable for dry skin and all skin types. It is an eco-friendly option that will give you the confidence you deserve.

The Safe for All Skin Types cleansing gel is a clear water-based cleanser that is potent but gentle enough for sensitive skin. It cleanses the surface and pores of the skin without stripping, drying, or irritating it. Enriched with shea butter and vitamin E, it hydrates and softens the skin. This facial cleanser is ideal for drier skin types.

Better Than a Cleansing Oil, the natural water-based cleanser is better to use for dry skin than a deep cleansing oil. It hydrates and is gentle to the skin like a cleansing oil, but it cleans deeper and exfoliates dead skin from the surface. A cleansing oil cannot do this. Simply squeeze a small amount of the cleanser into your hand, add water, and apply to the face for about a minute, making light, upward and outward circles with your fingertips.

Pros

  • Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin
  • pH-balanced and moisturizing
  • Contains natural ingredients and antioxidants
  • Eco-friendly and cruelty-free
  • Suitable for all skin types

Cons

  • – None found

5. Gentle Hydrating Face Cleanser For Sensitive Skin

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is a daily face wash that is perfect for normal to dry, sensitive skin types. It gently cleanses the skin of dirt, makeup, and impurities, while maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier and pH levels. The cream formula is enriched with prebiotic thermal spring water, niacinamide, and ceramide-3. These ingredients work together to retain essential moisture and leave the skin feeling comfortable and hydrated.

This hydrating cleanser is free of soap, oil, fragrance, and parabens, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. It is also non-comedogenic and allergy-tested, ensuring that it will not clog pores or cause allergic reactions.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is formulated with ceramides to restore moisture and promote a healthy skin barrier. It also contains niacinamide, which helps to soothe and visibly fade skin discolorations. This gentle cream formula is the perfect addition to any skincare routine, providing a thorough cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils.

Pros

  • Gently cleanses skin of dirt, makeup, and impurities
  • Maintains the skin's natural moisture barrier and pH levels
  • Enriched with prebiotic thermal spring water, niacinamide, and ceramide-3
  • Retains essential moisture, leaving the skin feeling comfortable and hydrated
  • Free of soap, oil, fragrance, and parabens
  • Non-comedogenic and allergy-tested
  • Formulated with ceramides to restore moisture and promote a healthy skin barrier
  • Contains niacinamide which helps to soothe and visibly fade skin discolorations

6. Herbal Daily Face Cleanser By Gabriel Correctives

The facial shampoo provides a cleansing action that effectively washes away dirt, makeup, and excess oil from the skin while maintaining its moisture and optimal pH balance. It is specially formulated to suit all skin types, including acne-prone skin, and is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or irritate the skin.

This water-based cleanser is an excellent way to remove H2O based impurities such as dirt and sweat. It contains Aloe Vera, which has soothing properties that help heal and soothe the skin.

To use this soothing skin cleanser, apply a small amount of the product to wet skin and massage gently. Rinse the face clean with lukewarm water and pat dry. It is recommended to use this cleanser twice daily, in the morning and at night-time.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin
  • Non-comedogenic and won't clog pores
  • Maintains the skin's moisture and optimal pH balance
  • Contains Aloe Vera, which has soothing properties that help heal and soothe the skin
  • Effectively washes away dirt, makeup, and excess oil

Cons

  • – None

7. Gentle Makeup Remover Foaming Face Wash

Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Facial Cleanser is an all-in-one makeup remover and facial cleanser that offers a refreshing clean skin in just one easy step. This facial cleanser is designed to wash away dirt, oil, and makeup without over-drying the skin. It creates a foamy lather that gently cleanses the skin and helps remove even waterproof makeup.

This gentle face wash is safe for sensitive eyes and won't irritate or sting the sensitive eye area. It is also non-comedogenic, which means that it won't clog pores. The facial foaming cleanser with glycerin is dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and oil-, soap-, and alcohol-free.

This daily cleanser is suitable for sensitive skin, enlarged pores, oil, and shine control. It rinses completely clean with no pore-clogging residue left behind. Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Facial Cleanser is from a dermatologist-recommended skincare brand that you can trust.

Pros

  • All-in-one makeup remover and facial cleanser for a refreshing clean skin in just one easy step
  • Gentle face wash that is safe for sensitive eyes and won't irritate or sting the sensitive eye area
  • Non-comedogenic, which means that it won't clog pores
  • Dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and oil-, soap-, and alcohol-free
  • Suitable for sensitive skin, enlarged pores, oil, and shine control
  • Rinses completely clean with no pore-clogging residue left behind
  • From a dermatologist-recommended skincare brand that you can trust

8. Toyo Aqua Gel Exfoliator: Brighter, Youthful Skin

Say hello to radiant and silky skin with the Japanese facial exfoliator that works wonders! The Cure Aqua Gel gently exfoliates the skin, leaving it smooth and bright with an even-looking complexion. Unlike conventional peeling solutions that use strong acids and chemicals, this gel catches and removes dead surface skin with an activated hydrogen water formula, making it gentle and stress-free to the skin. It improves pigmentation, removes acne scars, pesky bumps, and beauty marks. Moreover, it has anti-aging benefits that promote smooth, flawless skin and helps improve absorption of skin care products for a youthful glow that lasts all day long. The best part? You can use it anywhere you want to have smooth, glowing skin– hands, neck, elbows, or heels. Each bottle lasts approximately 4 months if used 1-2 times a week for facial use.

Pros

  • Promotes radiant and silky skin
  • Gentle to the skin
  • Improves pigmentation and reduces acne scars
  • Anti-aging benefits
  • Long-lasting bottle

9. Eltamd Exfoliating Foaming Face Wash

The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser is a gentle and effective face wash that can be used both morning and night. It is specially designed for oily skin types and works to remove impurities, makeup, and excess oil from the skin for a clean and smooth look and feel.

This exfoliating face wash utilizes a blend of enzymes and amino acids to reduce inflammation and remove harmful skin pollutants, helping to freshen and balance the skin. The micro-massaging bubbles infused within this foaming face cleanser provide a cleaner and more balanced skin feel, while also infusing more oxygen into the surface of your skin.

Safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, this thick foam face wash moisturizes without blocking pores or irritating sensitive skin. It is an oil-free, sensitivity-free, and paraben-free sensitive skin face wash that effectively cleanses the skin without causing any harm.

Pros

  • Gentle and effective face wash for oily skin types
  • Removes impurities, makeup, and excess oil from the skin
  • Utilizes a blend of enzymes and amino acids to reduce inflammation and remove harmful skin pollutants
  • Micro-massaging bubbles provide a cleaner and more balanced skin feel
  • Safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin
  • Moisturizes without blocking pores or irritating sensitive skin
  • Oil-free, sensitivity-free, and paraben-free

10. Clear Skin Solution: Paula's Choice Bha Exfoliant

The Gentle Non-Abrasive Leave-On Exfoliator is an effective skincare solution that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone. This leave-on exfoliator contains 2% BHA (Beta hydroxy acid) that combats redness, wrinkles, aging, enlarged pores, and blackheads. The packaging may vary but the formula remains the same.

The Beta hydroxy acid (BHA), also known as salicylic acid, mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores. It hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion. This unique, non-abrasive exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Unlike an abrasive face scrub that can cause micro-tears, Paula's Choice facial exfoliants are gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck. A BHA leave-on exfoliator delivers hydration and can exfoliate directly inside the pore, improving how the pore works. Use Paula's Choice for highly effective skin care solutions for the face and body. The full line of facial cleansers, exfoliators, toners, moisturizers, serums, eye creams, facial masks, sunscreens, body washes, and more are made to care for every kind of skin.

Pros

  • Contains 2% BHA that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores
  • Exfoliates dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone
  • Gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion
  • Gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck

Best Water Based Facial Cleanser FAQs

Can water-based facial cleansers be used on all skin types?

Water-based facial cleansers are generally considered safe for all skin types, as they are gentle and non-irritating. However, it's important to keep in mind that everyone's skin is unique and may react differently to different products. Some people with dry or sensitive skin may prefer a creamier, more moisturizing cleanser, while those with oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from a foaming or exfoliating cleanser. It's also important to pay attention to the ingredients in your cleanser and avoid any that may trigger an allergic reaction or irritation. Overall, water-based facial cleansers are a good starting point for most people, but it's always a good idea to do a patch test and listen to your skin's individual needs.

How does a water-based facial cleanser compare to an oil-based cleanser?

Water-based facial cleansers and oil-based cleansers are two different types of cleansers that work differently. Water-based cleansers are usually lightweight and contain ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and other water-soluble ingredients that help to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. They work by dissolving the dirt and oil on the skin's surface and rinsing it away with water.

On the other hand, oil-based cleansers are heavier and contain ingredients such as plant oils, mineral oils, and other emollients that help to dissolve and lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. They work by breaking down the dirt and oil on the skin's surface and emulsifying it with water, making it easier to rinse away.

In terms of effectiveness, both types of cleansers can be effective depending on your skin type and concerns. Water-based cleansers are ideal for oily or acne-prone skin as they help to remove excess oil and prevent breakouts. Oil-based cleansers, on the other hand, are suitable for dry or mature skin as they help to hydrate and nourish the skin while removing impurities.

In conclusion, the choice between water-based and oil-based cleansers depends on your skin type and concerns. It's essential to choose a cleanser that works best for your skin to achieve the best results.

How often should I use a water-based facial cleanser in my skincare routine?

It is generally recommended to use a water-based facial cleanser twice a day in your skincare routine, once in the morning and once at night. Cleansing your face in the morning helps to remove any oil and impurities that have accumulated on your skin overnight, while cleansing at night helps to remove makeup, dirt, and pollutants that have accumulated throughout the day.

However, the frequency with which you use a facial cleanser can also depend on your skin type and the specific product you are using. For example, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you may only need to use a cleanser once a day or every other day to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.

It's important to choose a water-based facial cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type and concerns. Look for products that are gentle, non-comedogenic, and free from harsh ingredients such as sulfates and alcohol. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

What are the benefits of using a water-based facial cleanser?

Water-based facial cleansers have become increasingly popular in the beauty industry, and for good reason. These types of cleansers are formulated with water as the primary ingredient, which makes them gentle and effective at removing impurities from the skin. Here are some of the benefits of using a water-based facial cleanser:

1. Gentle on the skin: Water-based cleansers are ideal for those with sensitive or dry skin as they are not harsh and do not strip the skin of its natural oils. They are also non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores.

2. Hydrating: Since water is the primary ingredient, these cleansers provide hydration to the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.

3. Effective at removing impurities: Water-based cleansers are great at removing dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin's surface, leaving it fresh and clean.

4. Suitable for all skin types: Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, water-based cleansers can work for you. They are versatile and can be used by anyone looking for a gentle yet effective cleanser.

In summary, water-based facial cleansers are a great choice for those looking for a gentle and effective way to cleanse their skin without stripping it of its natural oils.

What ingredients should I look for in a water-based facial cleanser?

When it comes to choosing a water-based facial cleanser, there are certain ingredients that you should look out for that can help to effectively cleanse and hydrate your skin. Firstly, you should look for ingredients that are gentle and non-irritating, such as glycerin or aloe vera, as these will help to soothe and hydrate your skin without causing any irritation or dryness.

Secondly, you should look for ingredients that can effectively remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin, such as surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate or coco-betaine. These ingredients can help to cleanse your skin thoroughly without stripping it of its natural oils.

Lastly, you should look for ingredients that can help to nourish and replenish your skin, such as antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea extract. These ingredients can help to protect your skin from environmental damage and keep it looking healthy and radiant.

Overall, when choosing a water-based facial cleanser, it's important to look for ingredients that are gentle, effective, and nourishing to ensure that your skin stays healthy and hydrated.

Leave a Comment