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Beauty/Makeup/Face/Removers

Top 10 Drugstore Face Washes

10 Purifying Drugstore Face Washes That Can Also Double As Makeup Removers

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Ever woken up to the sight of some serious raccoon eyes, even though you spent tons of time washing your face and slathering it with products the night before? We've all been there. No matter how many steps your evening skincare routine consists of, sometimes lashes are left with traces of liner and mascara lingering around the next morning. This happens because most face washes don't actually contain the ingredients necessary to break down makeup and oil, leaving you with all kinds of gunk and grime to sit on your skin while you sleep. But fret not—there are tons of face washes on the market that do contain these ingredients and work hard to leave you with an ultra-clean, makeup-free face. 

Need proof? Ahead, our data-driven algorithm has compiled a list of the Top 10 face washes and cleansers for removing makeup and more, based on user reviews, ratings, best-seller lists, social buzz, and editorial recommendations. And because we love you, we made sure you can snag every single one from the drugstore—no need to break the bank. From anti-aging and all-natural to tried-and-tested brands like Pond's and Cetaphil, you can find them all on our list. Keep scrolling to shop our edit and enjoy an ultra-clean and fresh-looking face.

Did you like our 10 Best Drugstore Face Washes? Then we think you'll love our 10 Best Drugstore Face Scrubs, too!

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May 26, 2023

Written By:Meredith Rimmer

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
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Rank & Style Approved

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Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

Overall Score

4.65

10

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

4.59

1307 User Reviews

3.1

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Drugstore Face Wash For Sensitive Skin

WHY YOU NEED IT
Free of dyes, parabens, and fragrances, this affordable facial cleanser is one of the most gentle in the game.

THINGS TO KNOW
Don't let the word "gentle" fool you—this cleanser removes everything from excess oil to makeup.


Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser

Overall Score

4.65

09

Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser

4.58

8159 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Foaming Face Wash

WHAT IT DOES
Designed with your skin's well-being in mind, this facial cleanser is a game-changer for those seeking a gentle yet powerful solution. It effortlessly lifts away dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Say goodbye to that tight, dry feeling often associated with harsh cleansers and hello to a refreshed and hydrated complexion.

WHO SHOULD USE IT
Perfect for all skin types, this dermatologist-recommended cleanser is incredibly gentle, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin. It works its magic without causing irritation or redness, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth, and thoroughly cleansed.


Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

Overall Score

4.65

08

Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

4.69

13059 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Face Wash For Combination Skin

WHO IT’S FOR
We’d be surprised to find someone out there who hasn’t tried Cetaphil’s Daily Facial Cleanser, as it’s one of the most accessible face washes around. It’s designed to deeply clean your skin without stripping it of its natural oils, which is why it’s often touted as the best face wash for combination skin.

USER REVIEW
We scrolled through the 25,000+ 5-star reviews for this product and learned that many users with issues such as acne and eczema see good results with this one. In fact, most of the reviews can be summed up with this one: “Other face products always feel like they leave something behind; this one actually makes me feel clean.”


Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-In-1 Cleanser & Waterproof Makeup Remover

Overall Score

4.7

07

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-In-1 Cleanser & Waterproof Makeup Remover

4.66

87401 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Micellar Cleansing Water

WHY IT MADE OUR LIST
This versatile skincare product is not just an ordinary face wash—it's a powerful cleanser and an effective makeup remover all in one bottle. The micellar water acts like a magnet, effortlessly capturing and lifting away dirt, oil, and even stubborn waterproof makeup without any harsh rubbing or tugging. The result? Skin that feels clean, refreshed, and makeup-free in just one swipe.

MORE REASONS TO LOVE
Whether you have sensitive, oily, or combination skin, this cleanser is gentle and non-irritating, leaving your skin feeling soothed and balanced. Additionally, the formula is lightweight and non-greasy, ensuring a comfortable and residue-free finish. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser

Overall Score

4.75

06

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser

4.5

14167 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Face Wash For Dry Skin

WHO'S IT FOR
If you have sensitive or dry skin, Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser is your new best friend. Its creamy, lotion-like texture gently cleanses your skin, removing dirt, impurities, and even makeup, while leaving behind a nourishing and moisturizing feel.

MORE REASONS TO LOVE
One reason reviewers love Neutrogena's Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser is its ability to maintain the natural moisture balance of your skin. This means that while it effectively cleanses, it also helps your skin retain its essential moisture, leaving it soft, supple, and healthy-looking.


Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel

Overall Score

4.8

05

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel

4.7

26773 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Gel Face Wash

WHO IT’S FOR
Due to its status as a hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and ultra-hydrating formula, this dermatologist-recommended face wash from Neutrogena is best for anyone wanting clean, soft, and supple skin. It’s also soap-, oil-, and paraben-free, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin as well.

USER REVIEW
“This cleanser is everything I've wanted in a facial wash: It works effectively as a cleanser without drying, leaves your face feeling tingly and smooth, and has a terrific scent! You don't need much either—maybe a dab the size of a large pea. It lathers up nicely and leaves your skin feeling so fresh! I won't use anything else now.”


CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

Overall Score

4.9

04

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

4.68

64642 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Face Wash With Salicylic Acid

WHAT IT DOES
Say goodbye to dull and rough skin with the powerful exfoliating properties of CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser. The gentle yet effective formula contains salicylic acid, a key ingredient known for its ability to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and promote cell turnover. This helps to reveal fresher, healthier-looking skin and improves the texture and tone of your complexion

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
What sets this drugstore cleanser apart is its advanced ceramide technology. Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids that play a crucial role in maintaining the skin's protective barrier. This cleanser is enriched with essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, which work together to replenish and strengthen your skin's barrier, locking in moisture and preventing dryness or irritation.


La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser

Overall Score

4.9

03

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser

4.7

29706 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Face Wash For Oily Skin

WHO'S IT FOR
Designed with the needs of oily and acne-prone skin in mind, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser goes beyond basic cleansing. It helps to reduce excess oil production, unclog pores, and prevent the formation of blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. With regular use, you can expect a visible improvement in the appearance of your skin, as it becomes clearer, smoother, and more balanced.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Not only is this cleanser highly effective, but it is also gentle and suitable for sensitive skin. La Roche-Posay is a renowned dermatologist-recommended brand known for its commitment to creating products that are gentle yet deliver exceptional results—and this drugstore face wash is no exception.


La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

Overall Score

4.95

02

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

4.6

31323 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Face Wash For Normal Skin

WHO'S IT FOR
This top-rated drugstore face cleanser is specifically designed to provide gentle yet effective cleansing while maintaining optimal hydration, making it an ideal choice for those with normal to dry skin.

WHY IT MADE OUR LIST
Its reputation as one of the best is well-deserved. Not only is it recommended by dermatologists worldwide, but it is also loved by countless users who have experienced its remarkable benefits. We're talking over 30,000 reviewers—just saying.


CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

Overall Score

5

01

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

4.67

131146 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Face Wash Overall

WHAT IT DOES
This gentle yet effective cleanser is formulated with a unique blend of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and essential moisturizers to replenish and lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed.

WHO SHOULD USE IT
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is designed to cater to the needs of all skin types, making it a versatile choice for anyone seeking a cleanser that is both gentle and hydrating. Whether you have dry, sensitive, or normal skin, this cleanser works wonders in maintaining the skin's natural moisture balance while removing impurities, dirt, and makeup.

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