- Pros: Deeply purifying; helps smooth and brighten; great for clogged pores
- Cons: May not be the best choice for sensitive and dry skin
You only need a tiny, pea-sized dot of this stretchy gel cleanser to create a rich, pore-clarifying foam. The formula is designed to boost glow and soften skin with every wash. “This cleanser targets dullness and uneven skin tone with kojic acid, which helps inhibit excess pigment production,” says Dr. Chang. “It also contains niacinamide and turmeric, known for their anti- inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It leaves the skin very soft and a small amount goes a long way.”
In testing, we found that it was a great choice for normal to oily skin types. “My face felt so fresh—but not stripped—after using this cleanser,” says Wu. “I squeezed out more than is strictly necessary just to show the irresistibly stretchy texture, but you definitely only need a tiny dot. I do find that I gravitate toward creamier, milder formulas when my combination skin feels dry and sensitized, but I love grabbing this for a glow boost.”
- Use if: You have dull or congested skin
- Key ingredients: Kojic acid, turmeric, niacinamide
- Form: Stretchy gel
- Fragrance-free? Yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Banila Co Clean It Zero Amino Bubble Cleanser
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Banila Co Clean It Zero Amino Bubble Cleanser
- Pros: Uses gentle cleansing agents; contains hydrating and soothing ingredients
- Cons: While the formula is gentle, it does contain fragrance
A rich, foamy lather is usually a sign of a cleanser that might feel too stripping for dry or sensitive skin. This pH-balanced option, which has been tested for sensitive skin, is different. While it produces a bubbly, airy foam, it uses especially gentle ingredients to produce the same effect. “This cleanser is formulated with amino acid-based surfactants, which are significantly gentler than traditional foaming agents, making it a smart option for sensitive or reactive skin,” says Dr. Chang. “Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramide help hydrate and repair the skin barrier. It’s very effective at removing makeup and sunscreen while leaving the skin feeling refreshed.” The only con: This formula does contain fragrance, which some with sensitive skin will want to avoid. (If that’s the case for you, we think you’ll also love the fragrance-free Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser on this list.)