ProductsFace WashesBest Daily Face Washes for Men
By Kyra Heenan
Dec. 03, 2021 / 2 min read
Our editors independently research, and recommend the best products; learn more about our editorial policy. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links; learn more about how we make money.
Are you looking for your next go-to face wash to keep your skin clean and healthy? Here are our recommendations for the best daily face washes for men.
Our Recommendations
1. Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser
CeraVe Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
CeraVe Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser
This hydrating cleanser has the benefits of both a cream cleanser and a foaming face wash. It adequately hydrates the skin while also effectively cleansing away dirt, makeup, and excess debris for a fresh and soft complexion.
Skin types: Normal, Dry and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This affordable face wash transforms from a cream formula to a foaming formula as it lathers, and is excellent for those with dry or sensitive skin looking for an effective yet gentle and hydrating cleanser. It contains ceramides, which maintain the skin’s natural barrier, as well as hyaluronic acid, which attracts and locks in moisture. A mild amino acid-based surfactant helps turn the cream face wash into a gentle foam that works to remove debris from the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Allergy tested
- Hydrating
- Developed with dermatologists
- Sensitive skin-friendly
Cons
- Some reviewers dislike the smell of the cleanser
This gentle cleanser is sensitive skin friendly, and free of common irritants that can aggravate this skin type. It also contains CeraVe’s MVE technology, which continually releases moisturizing ingredients over time.
AQUA / WATER / EAU, GLYCERIN, SODIUM METHYL COCOYL TAURATE, COCO-BETAINE, SODIUM COCOYL ISETHIONATE, SODIUM CHLORIDE, PCA, PPG-5-CETETH-20, PEG-100 STEARATE, PEG-150 PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRASTEARATE, PEG-6 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES, PEG-30 DIPOLYHYDROXYSTEARATE, CI 77891 / TITANIUM DIOXIDE, ASPARTIC ACID, CERAMIDE NP, CERAMIDE AP, CERAMIDE EOP, SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE, CARBOMER, GLYCOL DISTEARATE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, GLYCERYL OLEATE, GLYCINE, TRIDECETH-6, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, BEHENTRIMONIUM METHOSULFATE, THREONINE, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, SALICYLIC ACID, SODIUM PCA, SODIUM LACTATE, ARGININE, SODIUM LAUROYL LACTYLATE, SERINE, SODIUM BENZOATE, VALINE, SODIUM HYALURONATE, PROLINE, ISOLEUCINE, CHOLESTEROL, PHENOXYETHANOL, ALANINE, PHENYLALANINE, COCONUT ACID, COCO-GLUCOSIDE, CHLORPHENESIN, DISODIUM EDTA, HYDROXYETHYL UREA, CITRIC ACID, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, PHYTOSPHINGOSINE, XANTHAN GUM, HISTIDINE, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, POLYQUATERNIUM-53, POLYQUATERNIUM-39, POLYSORBATE 60, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, BENZOIC ACID
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic Acid"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
2. Gentle Facial Cleanser
Vanicream Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
This mild, soap-free cleanser is excellent for dry and sensitive skin. It gently cleanses without irritating or drying out the skin.
Skin types: Normal, Dry and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This Vanicream cleanser was made specifically with sensitive skin in mind. It is incredibly gentle on the skin, and contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin to keep the skin moisturized. This formula is also soap-free, meaning it gently cleanses without irritation.
Pros
- Gentle
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance
Cons
- May not be effective enough for acne-prone skin
This cleanser is free of common irritants that can negatively affect sensitive skin, including dyes, fragrances, and essential oils.
Purified water, glycerin, coco glucoside, sodium cocoyl glycinate, acrylates copolymer, caprylyl glycol, mica, sodium chloride, 1,2-hexanediol, titanium dioxide, sodium hydroxide, disodium EDTA
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 26, 2021.
3. Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser
This gentle and hydrating cream cleanser is one of the best La Roche-Posay cleansers for normal to dry skin. It effectively removes dirt and debris from the skin while still retaining its essential moisture.
Skin types: Normal, Dry and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
If you have dry skin, finding a cleanser that cleans without stripping the skin of its natural moisture is essential. This cleanser contains ceramides and glycerin, which are excellent for keeping the skin adequately moisturized.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Dermatologist tested
- Gentle
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
In addition to the ceramides and glycerin, this cleanser contains niacinamide, which helps soothe the skin. Additionally, this cleanser is suitable for those with more sensitive skin.
AQUA/WATER/EAU, GLYCERIN, PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRAETHYLHEXANOATE, PROPANEDIOL, AMMONIUM POLYACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE, POLYSORBATE 60, CERAMIDE NP, NIACINAMIDE, SODIUM CHLORIDE, COCO-BETAINE, DISODIUM EDTA CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, PANTHENOL, TOCOPHEROL (CODE FIL: D242855/1)
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 13, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin’s own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Aug. 13, 2021.
4. Effaclar Gel Facial Wash for Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel Facial Wash for Oily Skin
This gentle foaming gel cleanser is one of the best La Roche-Posay cleansers for oily skin. It removes dirt, oil, and other debris from the skin without disrupting the pH balance or overdrying.
Skin types: Oily and Combination
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
The key ingredient in this cleanser is zinc pidolate, an astringent and anti-inflammatory ingredient that is known for its ability to help control sebum (oil). This makes this gel cleanser an excellent choice for oily skin, as it absorbs excess oil to help reduce shine. This cleanser is also gentle and doesn’t dry out the skin, which is crucial for oily skin, because cleansers that strip the skin of its natural moisture can actually trigger the skin to produce more oil.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Contains fragrance
The Effaclar Gel Facial Wash is non-comedogenic, which means it is not likely to clog pores. This means it is suitable for those with oily skin that are prone to acne.
Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, PEG-8, Coco-Betaine, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Zinc PCA, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum/Fragrance
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Topical Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis"
Accessed Aug. 13, 2021.
5. Fragrance Free Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
Sebamed Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Sebamed Fragrance Free Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
This gentle, hydrating cleanser is specifically formulated for dry and sensitive skin. It effectively cleanses without irritating or drying out the skin.
Skin types: Normal, Dry and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This fragrance-free cleanser contains a variety of soothing ingredients that support the skin and prevent irritation. Antioxidant-rich vitamin E and panthenol both hydrate, nourish, and fight irritation while the soap-free formula cleanses.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
This gentle cleanser is suitable for a variety of skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and dehydrated skin.
Water (Aqua), Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Citric Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E),Glyceryl Laurate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Benzoate
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
6. Daily Face Cleanser
Cetaphil Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Cetaphil Daily Face Cleanser
For those with normal to oily skin, this is one of the best cleansers from Cetaphil. The gel to foam formula is clinically proven to deeply cleanse the skin, but is still gentle enough to not strip it of its natural oils.
Skin types: Normal, Oily, Combination and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet your face with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into your skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This is an excellent cleanser for daily use, particularly for those with normal to oily skin. It cleanses without irritating or drying out the skin and contains vitamins B3 and B5, as well as glycerin, which hydrate and nourish the skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
Cons
- Contains fragrance
The mild and low lather formula is dermatologist tested, and shown to be gentle on sensitive skin. Since it is also non-comedogenic, it won’t clog pores, making it a suitable choice for those with acne-prone skin.
Water, Glycerin, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Phenoxyethanol, Masking Fragrance, Panthenol, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Disodium Edta, Methylparaben
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
7. Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
This cult-favorite cleanser is known as one of the best Cetaphil products of all time. The creamy formula gently removes debris from the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
Skin types: Normal, Dry and Sensitive
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: First, wet the skin with lukewarm water. Dispense the cleanser into your palms, and then gently massage into the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This gentle cleanser is perfect for everyday use, and is appropriate for all skin types (although it is best for normal, dry, and sensitive skin). It has been clinically proven to be gentle on sensitive skin, and leaves the skin feeling soft and moisturized, rather than tight and dry. This cleanser contains vitamins B3 and B5, as well as glycerin, which hydrate and nourish the skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle
Cons
- May not be effective enough for acne-prone skin
This award-winning cleanser has been clinically tested and shown to be hypoallergenic, which means it won’t irritate the skin. The mild, soap-free formula was crafted with sensitive skin types in mind.
Water, Cetyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Stearyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 25, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 25, 2021.
8. Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
This cleanser is gentle on the skin, but still cleanses away dirt, debris, and oil. It both cleans and hydrates, and doesn’t strip the skin of its natural moisture or disrupt the protective barrier.
Skin types: Normal and Dry
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet the skin with lukewarm water, then gently massage the cleanser into the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
It’s incredibly important that people with dry skin use a cleanser that strikes a balance between effectively cleansing and not stripping the skin. This is one of the best CeraVe products for dry skin, because it’s hydrating and gentle, but still actually cleanses. Since it is important to cleanse your face on a daily basis, this product makes it easy to do so without disrupting the skin’s barrier.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Fragrance-free
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
Cons
- May not be be effective enough for acne-prone skin
This hydrating cleanser features glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which hydrate and lock in moisture. It also contains three essential ceramides, which restore the skin’s barrier.
Purified Water, Glycerin, Behentrimonium Methosulfate and Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6-11, Ceramide 1, Hyaluronic Acid, Cholesterol, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate, Glyceryl Monostearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Phytosphingosine, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Aug. 25, 2021.
9. Foaming Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
This foaming cleanser is gentle and non-irritating on the skin, but still effectively removes dirt, debris, and excess oil without stripping it.
Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: Wet the skin with lukewarm water, and then gently massage the cleanser into the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
This cleanser is one of the best CeraVe products for oilier skin types, because it cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. Maintaining the skin’s moisture is vital, as products that dry out the skin can actually trigger the skin to produce more oil. This cleanser allows you to protect your skin while still cleansing away excess oil, dirt, and debris.
Pros
- Gentle
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-irritating
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
This daily foaming gel cleanser contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and three essential ceramides. These ingredients help ensure the cleanser doesn’t strip the skin of its natural moisture. They also help calm and soothe the skin.
Aqua / Water / Eau, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Niacinamide, Peg-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl, Taurate, Propylene Glycol, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Methylparaben, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Disodium Edta, Propylparaben, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium Edta, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum
-
American Academy of Dermatology. "How to control oily skin"
Accessed Aug. 24, 2021.
10. Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser
Paula's Choice Face Wash for Daily Cleansing
Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser
Those with particularly oily skin will benefit from this gentle cream-to-foam cleanser, which effectively cleanses and removes excess oil to reduce shine without drying out the skin.
Skin types: Oily
Best for: Daily Cleansing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: First, wet the skin with lukewarm water. Dispense the cleanser into your palms, and then gently massage into the skin. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Oily skin needs a cleanser that effectively cleans without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This is because skin that is stripped can actually end up producing even more oil. This is one of the best Paula’s Choice cleansers for oily skin, because it removes excess oil but is still gentle enough to maintain the right hydration balance.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
Cons
- May be drying for some skin types
This cleanser contains ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin to keep it balanced, including glycerin, sunflower seed oil, and aloe.
Water (Aqua), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (cleansing), Sodium Lauroamphoacetate (cleansing), Stearic Acid (texture-enhancing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Glycol Distearate (texture-enhancing), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (sunflower oil/non-fragrant oil/antioxidant), Acrylates Copolymer (texture-enhancing), Cetearyl Alcohol (texture-enhancing), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (hydration/skin-soothing), Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Hexylene Glycol (preservative), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
-
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
FAQs
What is the best daily face wash for men with dry skin?
There are quite a few choices on this list that are suitable for men with dry skin. The best daily face washes for men with dry skin include the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser, the Sebamed Fragrance Free Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, and the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser.
Should I wash my face everyday?
Yes, everyone should wash their face at least once a day. Everyone should wash their face in the evening to cleanse away the dirt, sweat, sebum, and excess debris that has collected on the skin throughout the day. Some people may also choose to wash their face in the morning, but this comes down to whatever works best for your skin. In general, those with drier or more sensitive skin may find that once a day works, while those with oilier skin may choose to cleanse twice a day. If you workout and break a sweat early in the day, you’ll definitely want to wash your face in the morning after you workout. Avoid washing your face more than two times per day, as over-cleansing can irritate and dry out the skin.
Is it good to wash your face with soap?
You should always wash your face with a cleanser specifically formulated for use on the face. Other soaps – such as a bar soap or body wash – are typically harsher, and not formulated for the more delicate facial skin. These soaps will likely strip the skin of its natural oils, dry out and irritate the skin, damage the skin barrier, and throw off the skin’s pH balance. You’ll get the best results with a face wash formulated for your specific skin type.
The Bottom Line
An effective daily face wash is an essential part of a solid skincare routine. If you are looking to add a new face wash to your routine, consider using one of our recommended products to keep your complexion healthy and happy.
About the author
Kyra Heenan
Kyra is a content writer based in Los Angeles, CA. She works in the health and wellness sphere, and covers everything from beauty to skincare to fitness. She has been passionate about skincare since she was a teenager, and loves uncovering the absolute best routines and products available to help people reach their skin goals.
More related articles
Blackheads • 3 years ago
Best Face Washes for Blackheads ReadFace Washes • 3 years ago
Best Face Washes for Redness ReadFace Washes • 3 years ago
Best Cruelty Free Face Washes ReadFace Washes • 3 years ago
Best Vegan Face Washes for Sensitive Skin ReadFace Washes • 3 years ago
Best Vegan Face Washes for Oily Skin ReadFace Washes • 3 years ago
Best Vegan Face Washes ReadAcne Scars • 3 years ago
Best Drugstore Face Washes for Acne Scars ReadAcne • 3 years ago
Best Daily Face Washes for Acne Read