Choosing the right face cleanser is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine. It’s also one of the easiest steps to get wrong. A cleanser that’s too harsh can strip the skin, disrupt the barrier, and leave you feeling tight or irritated. A fash wash that’s too rich for oily skin can contribute to congestion and breakouts.
In his video, Dr Derrick Phillips, an award-winning consultant dermatologist in London, shares cleanser recommendations based on skin type that you can find in your pharmacy. This article breaks down face washes for your skin type, explains why they work, and helps you decide which type of cleanser fits your skin and budget.
Why Your Cleanser Matters More Than You Think
Cleansing is the step that sets the tone for your entire skincare routine. A good cleanser should:
- Remove daily buildup (oil, sweat, pollution, sunscreen, makeup)
- Clean without stripping the skin’s protective oils
- Support a healthy skin barrier
- Reduce irritation and prevent rebound oiliness
- Prepare your skin for actives (retinoids, acids, vitamin C)
The goal is clean skin that still feels comfortable. If your face feels squeaky, tight, or “dry-cleaned” after washing, your cleanser is probably too aggressive.
Dermatologist-Recommended Cleansers By Skin Type
1) Best Cleanser for Dry and Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
Dr Derrick Phillips recommends the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser for dry and sensitive skin because it is gentle, non-foaming, and supportive of the skin barrier.
Why this works:
- Hydrating cleansers use mild surfactants (cleansing agents) that lift debris without stripping natural lipids.
- These formulas are often better tolerated when the barrier is compromised.
Best for:
- Dry skin, sensitive skin, eczema-prone skin
- People using retinoids, exfoliants, or acne treatments that cause dryness
- Anyone who feels tight after cleansing
2) Go-To for Oily and Blemish-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Foaming Gel Cleanser
For oily or acne-prone skin, Dr Phillips highlights the La Roche Posay Foaming Gel Cleanser because it removes impurities and balances oil production without over-drying.
Why this works:
- Gel cleansers are effective at removing excess oil, sunscreen residue, and urban pollution.
- The key is choosing a foaming cleanser that cleans thoroughly without leaving the skin tight.
Best for:
- Oily skin, combination skin
- Blemish-prone and congested skin
- People who wear heavier sunscreen or makeup regularly
Learn more about the best acne fighting ingredients here.
3) Ultra-Affordable Skin Barrier Support: Simple Repair+ Cream Cleanser
The Simple Repair Cream Cleanser is an ultra-affordable option, highlighted for including ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Why this works:
- Cream cleansers can be a great “barrier reset” option when your skin feels sensitive or dehydrated.
- Ceramides support barrier function; hyaluronic acid supports hydration.
Best for:
- Budget-friendly routines
- Dry, sensitive, or barrier-stressed skin
- People who want simple, consistent cleansing
Struggling with a damaged skin barrier? Get Dr Derrick Phillips’ expert repair tips here.
4) Gentle Everyday Classic: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
The Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser is a long-standing dermatologist favourite for a reason: it’s mild, reliable, and suitable for a wide range of skin types.
Why this works:
- Simple formulas are often best when your skin is reactive.
- It’s especially useful if you’re starting a routine and want fewer variables.
Best for:
- Sensitive skin
- Dry-to-normal skin
- People who want a straightforward everyday cleanser
5) Ultra-Gentle + Affordable for Reactive Skin: Aveeno Calm + Restore Gel Cleanser
This is a gentle and affordable option that is nourishing for sensitive skin.
Why this works:
- “Calm” ranges are often designed to reduce irritation and support tolerance.
- Lightweight gel textures can still feel soothing for sensitive skin types who dislike heavy creams.
Best for:
- Sensitive, redness-prone, reactive skin
- People who want a gentle cleanser with a lighter feel
How to Cleanse Your Skin Properly
Using the right cleanser is important, but technique matters just as much. Most people only need to cleanse twice daily: once in the morning and once in the evening. In the morning, a gentle cleanse helps remove overnight oil and prepares the skin for skincare and sunscreen. In the evening, cleansing is essential to remove sunscreen, makeup, pollution, and daily buildup.
Use lukewarm water rather than hot water, which can disrupt the skin barrier. Massage your cleanser into the skin gently for about 20–30 seconds, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Avoid scrubbing or using excessive pressure, as friction can trigger irritation and redness, particularly in sensitive or acne-prone skin.
After cleansing, apply moisturiser and treatment products promptly to help maintain hydration and barrier function.
Do You Need to Double Cleanse?
Double cleansing can be beneficial if you regularly wear heavy sunscreen, long-wear makeup, or live in a high-pollution environment. Traditionally this involves using an oil-based or balm cleanser first to dissolve makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to clean the skin itself.
However, this approach is not ideal for everyone. Those with oily or blemish-prone skin may find oil cleansers too heavy, and a micellar water can be a better first step to remove sunscreen and makeup. This can then be followed with a gentle, water-based cleanser if a deeper cleanse is required.
Double cleansing is also not necessary for everyone. People with dry or sensitive skin may find that over-cleansing leads to tightness or irritation. As with all skincare steps, the aim is effective cleansing without compromising the skin barrier.
Dr Derrick Phillips talks about double cleansing with oily skin in this Refinery29 article.
Budget Friendly Face Wash
Choosing the right cleanser is one of the simplest yet most impactful decisions you can make for your skin. The ideal formula should cleanse effectively while protecting the skin barrier, supporting long-term health rather than disrupting it. Whether your skin is dry, sensitive, oily, or blemish-prone, matching your cleanser to your skin type helps prevent irritation, breakouts, and unnecessary barrier damage.
However, cleansing is just the foundation. True skin improvement comes from combining the right daily routine with targeted treatments tailored to your individual concerns.