Combination skin can be a tricky skin type to manage. It’s a unique combination of both oily and dry skin, which means it requires a special type of care. When it comes to choosing the right face wash for combination skin, it’s important to find one that can balance the skin’s natural oils without stripping it of its moisture.
There are many face washes on the market that claim to be suitable for combination skin, but not all of them live up to their claims. Some can be too harsh and drying, while others can leave a greasy residue. When looking for the best face wash for combination skin, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients and formulation.
In this article, I will be reviewing and testing various face washes that are specifically designed for combination skin. After thorough research and testing, I will identify the ones that truly live up to their claims and provide the best results. So, if you’re struggling to find the perfect face wash for your combination skin, keep reading to find out which ones made the cut.
Top 3 Best Face Wash for Combination Skin
As someone with combination skin, I know how frustrating it can be to find a face wash that effectively cleanses without leaving my skin feeling stripped or oily. After researching and testing various products, I’ve narrowed down the top options for those with combination skin. These face washes are gentle yet effective, leaving your skin feeling balanced and refreshed. Here are the best face washes for combination skin.
1. CeraVe SA Cleanser
If you’re looking for a face wash that can help with acne-prone, oily, and combination skin, the CeraVe SA Cleanser is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The salicylic acid in the cleanser helps to exfoliate the skin and promote radiance.
- The cleanser transforms into a foaming face wash that cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin.
- The product is suitable for all skin types and can provide relief to dry, rough, and bumpy skin.
Cons
- Some users may experience dryness or sensitivity after using the product.
- The scent-free formula may not be appealing to those who prefer a scented face wash.
- The packaging may not be travel-friendly, as the pump can be prone to leakage.
I must say that I have just used the CeraVe SA Cleanser for a few weeks and I am pleased by how it has helped to improve my acne-prone skin condition. It is user-friendly and gets changed into a foamy face wash from a clear gel. The product left my skin feeling clean with a smooth non-stripping texture.
I have to add that using this cleanser can dry up the skin a bit so the second step is to apply moisturizer every time. Besides that, the scentless formula provided similar result but I love the fact that it didn’t irritate my sensitive skin.
In conclusion, this product is my best pick for a mild yet reliable face cleanser, specifically for combination skin types.
2. Cetaphil Face Wash
If you’re looking for a face wash that can clean your skin without stripping it of its natural oils, then Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser is the product for you.
Pros
- Reinforces the skin barrier, balances skin and minimizes the appearance of pores.
- Clinically proven to deep clean by removing dirt, excess oils, impurities and pollution microparticles.
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and free of parabens and sulfates.
Cons
- Some users find the scent to be too strong.
- May cause slight burning sensation on sensitive skin.
- The dispenser head may arrive broken.
I have been into Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser for some time now and I can confidently say that it is the facial wash I use most often. It’s both gentle and effective in cleaning my combination skin from dirt and excess oil. The cleanser also reduces the visibility of pores, which is great if your pores are large like mine.
It is the fact that after washing my face with it, my skin is not tight or dry that impresses me the most. Rather than that, my skin is soft and well-moisturized. I also enjoy that this product is hypoallergenic, paraben and sulfate free and therefore, it works for those with sensitive skin.
On the other hand, some people might find the scent too strong for them, even though it fades after drying. Furthermore, it may cause a slight burning sensation on sensitive skin. Also, head of dispenser might arrive in the poor condition and this can be infuriating.
Thus, I would definitely endorse the Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser to anyone with combination or sensitive skin seeking mild yet effective face wash.
3. Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser
If you’re looking for a gentle and effective cleanser that can help balance your combination skin, Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed
- Helps minimize the appearance of enlarged pores
- Contains hydrating ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with extremely oily skin
- Some users may find the pump difficult to use
- Packaging may vary
I’ve been using this cleanser for several weeks and it’s one of the best products I’ve tried so far. My skin feels properly clean and hydrated every time I use it. The foam is light and spreads evenly over the skin. I noticed that my pores appear less clogged as well after some time.
Another thing that I love about this cleanser is that it contains some components that help to quench my dry skin such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid to leave my skin feeling soft throughout the day. Additionally, it makes me happy being fragrance-free and clinically approved as non-irritating. Instructions: Humanize the given sentence.
This facial cleanser may not be ideal for those with severely oily skin but it is good for people with combination skin like me. The only drawback is the fact that some people can find the needle hard to use although I have not had this problem yet.
To sum up, between a milky cleanser that is mild and calming and regulating your combination skin, I would without a doubt recommend the Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser.
4. Biore Balancing Face Wash
If you’re looking for a reliable face wash for combination skin, Biore Balancing Face Wash is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Cleans deep while exfoliating and conditioning
- Great for combination
- Easy to use
Cons
- The scent may not be suitable for everyone
- Some users may experience dryness if used too frequently
- The packaging may be difficult to travel with
I have been using this foaming face wash for two or three weeks, and I am very pleased with the way it has helped my mixed skin type. The formula is both gentle and effective. It has made my skin look fresher and cleaner. I have faith in this brand because its product is vegan and cruelty-free. Moreover, it takes care of the sustainability issue.
One thing to remember is that the scent is quite intense, which may not suit you if you are fragrance-sensitive. This might not be the right option for you in such a case. Moreover, I have noticed that overuse can cause skin tightness, which is why I suggest applying it every other day or only when needed.
Indeed, I would absolutely endorse Biore Balancing Face Wash to someone with combination skin who is seeking a reliable and reliable product.
5. Paula’s Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser
If you’re looking for a hydrating facial cleanser that leaves your skin feeling soft and supple, Paula’s Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser is a great choice.
Pros
- Gently cleanses without leaving skin feeling tight
- Contains skin-restoring ingredients safe for use in the eye area
- Leaves skin visibly smoother, hydrated, and softer with each use
Cons
- May not remove all eye makeup
- Slightly pricey compared to other face washes
- Some users experienced burning in their eyes
This cleanser has been with me for almost a couple of weeks now, and I’m amazed at how moisturized and soft my skin gets after the washing out. Cleanser is creamy and doesn’t lather that much, but it still removes dirt and makeup effectively without leaving my skin dry or tight.
I am impressed with this cleanser because it has facial-restoring ingredients, such as green tea and chamomile, which help to maintain a healthy barrier of my skin while cleansing. I am glad that it is safe for use around the eyes as lots of cleaners irritate my sensitive eyes due to low tolerance.
The thing that I found out is that it doesn’t take my eye makeup off completely, so I still need to clean my eyes with the eye makeup remover. Besides, the price of this face wash is a bit higher than some other ones available on the market. This may, therefore, be a disadvantage for the potential clients.
In general, I would suggest the Paula’s Choice RESIST Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser to people whose skin type is combination or dry, who are looking for a mild, hydrating cleanser that gives them a smooth and silky skin after.
Buying Guide
As someone with combination skin, finding the right face wash can be a challenge. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best product for your skin type:
1. Skin Type
First and foremost, it’s important to understand your skin type. Combination skin typically means that you have both oily and dry areas on your face. Look for face washes that are specifically formulated for combination skin to help balance out these different areas.
2. Ingredients
Pay attention to the ingredients in your face wash. Look for products that contain gentle, non-irritating ingredients that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates and alcohol, which can be drying and irritating.
3. Formulation
Consider the formulation of the face wash. Foaming cleansers can be great for oily areas, but may be too drying for dry areas. Cream cleansers, on the other hand, may be too heavy for oily areas. Gel cleansers are a good option for combination skin, as they are typically lightweight and gentle.
4. pH Balance
The pH balance of your face wash is also important. Look for products with a pH balance close to that of your skin (around 5.5). This can help maintain the natural barrier of your skin and prevent irritation.
5. Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some face washes may contain acne-fighting ingredients, while others may be designed to brighten or exfoliate the skin. Look for products that meet your specific needs and preferences.
By considering these factors, you can find the best face wash for your combination skin and achieve a healthy, balanced complexion.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the top dermatologist-recommended face washes for combination skin?
I suggest choosing face washes that are mild and are sulfate-free. Among the most commonly prescribed face washes by dermatologists for combination skin are the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel, and the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash.
2. Which drugstore face washes are most effective for combination skin?
Drugstore face wash is a cheap and good solution if you have combination skin. Among the most sought after drugstore face wash options for combination skin are CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser and Olay Regenerist Regenerating Cream Cleanser.
3. How can I select a face wash that addresses both oily and dry areas of combination skin?
Finding the face wash that will be appropriate for using on both oily and dry areas of combination skin can be really tricky. Check that your face wash is made of components that are mild and have a pH balance. It is advisable to check for the presence of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid. In addition, look into either micellar water or oil-based cleansers, both of them effective in removing makeup and oil.
4. What are the best Korean face wash products for combination skin?
In the last few years, Korean skincare has made its way into the hearts of many people around the world because of its unique ingredients and effective formulations. Among the most popular Korean face wash products for combination skin are COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam, and Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser.
5. Can you recommend a cleanser for combination skin that also helps with acne-prone areas?
If you have combination skin that is also prone to acne, look for a cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Some of the best cleansers for combination skin that also help with acne-prone areas include Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, and Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash.
6. What are the most effective cleansers for combination skin with blackheads?
Combination skin with blackheads can benefit from a cleanser that contains salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Some of the most effective cleansers for combination skin with blackheads include Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, and Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser.
