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All under $20.

Three drugstore face washes we recommend, including e.l.f., Aveeno, and Cetaphil, collaged on a gray background.

Byrdie

The extra-mild, nonirritating formula gets the job done without stripping the skin.

If you want a cleanser thats especially good at removing makeup, considerBurts Bees Gentle Face Cleanser.

It whisps away the day and leaves your skin feeling refreshed.

Cetaphil-pro-foaming-face-wash

PHOTO: Walmart

The good news: Theres no need to shell out the big bucks to find agreat face wash.

Active ingredients tend to up the cost of face wash, but according to board-certified dermatologistDr.

With the many drugstore face washes out there, we set out to find the best ones.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Cetaphil PRO Foaming Face Wash

Byrdie

Ultimately, these cleansers washed away the competition.

While foam formulas are typically more drying, we actually found this to be moisturizing.

Awa, tester with sensitive/dry skin:“My skin felt balanced, not oily or dry.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

PHOTO: The Ordinary

And even though its oil-based, it didnt cause any irritation or breakouts.

But once you do that, this pick is sure to yo.

Because it is a more medicated formula, youll want a separate cleanser to remove makeup.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

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Best for Dry Skin

e.l.f Cosmetics Holy Hydration!

Its also incredibly gentle yet still delivers impressive cleansing prowess, effectively removing dirt and makeupno need todouble cleanse.

It smells like chemicals upon software, but thankfully, the scent doesnt last.

Amazon differin-daily-deep-cleanser

PHOTO: Amazon

Rachel, tester with combination skin:“The benefit to this face wash was the hydration element.

It helped my skin stay fresh, hydrated, and radiant during the winter months.”

It left our complexion softer, smoother, and more radiantand without any dryness.

A before and after photo showing the impact of using Differin Daily Deep Cleanser

Byrdie

It also removed makeup well.

I felt like my skin looked and felt better after using it.”

We couldnt get over how well this formula helped break down excess oil, especially in our T-zone.

e.l.f Cosmetics Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser

PHOTO: e.l.f. Cosmetics

Its worth noting that the texture is a little different than other cleansers.

Since its very spreadable, this utility method worked well.

Once you add water, the consistency transforms into more of a lightweight milk.

A before and after photo showing the impact of using e.l.f Cosmetics Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser

Byrdie

It wasnt particularly great at taking off makeup so it would be best reserved for no-makeup orlighter makeupdays.

It checked the boxes for effective cleansing, not causing any irritation, and even tamping down redness.

While it removed face makeup fairly well, keep in mind that this wont do the trick formascaraandeyeliner.

Target Olay Regenerist Regenerating Cream Facial Cleanser

PHOTO: Target

What more could you ask for?

Kate, tester with normal skin:“I wouldnt change a thing about this product.

Its gentle and effective without being drying.”

A before and after photo showing the effects of using OLAY Regenerist Regenerating Cream Cleanser

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We loved how well it removed excess oil and openedclogged pores, but it didnt feel drying or stripping.

Its also stellar at breaking down makeup it even dissolved mascara.

It’s worth mentioning that it contains menthol, which gives it a cooling sensation and distinct scent.

Weleda Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Oil-to-Milk Cleanser

PHOTO: Amazon

The hybrid texture also won us over; its a cross between milk, oil, and foam.

Even with night out makeup on, I found it to be very effective."

The fragrance is naturally derived and didnt trigger any irritation during testing, even on sensitive skin.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Weleda Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Oil-to-Milk Cleanser

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And, its a top-notch makeup remover, too.

And the pump-top bottle was perfect for dispensing just the right amount of product every time.

While the product does claim to offer brightening benefits, we didnt notice any.

Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser

PHOTO: Aveeno

Jessica, tester with combination skin:“This face wash was gentle yet invigorating.

“Wash your face two times a day with a gentle cleanser,” advises Dr. Dele-Michael.

That said, folks with extra-dry skin might opt for once-daily cleansing, especially on makeup-free days.

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser

Byrdie

Look for the PAO (period-after-opening) symbol, which looks like a tiny jar with a lid.

The number within the symbol will tell you how long the product lasts after being opened.

She frequently uses the Aveeno and Cetaphil products featured here for her sensitive skin.

Bioderma Sensibio Foaming Gel

PHOTO: Dermstore

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Bioderma Sensibio Foaming Gel

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Biore Deep Charcoal Oil Free Face Wash

PHOTO: Target

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser

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Burt’s Bees Gentle Face Cleanser

PHOTO: Burt’s Bees

A before and after photo showing the effects of using Burt’s Bees Gentle Face Cleanser

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pixi Rose Cream Cleanser with Rose & Chamomile Flower

PHOTO: Pixi

A person before and after using pixi Rose Cream Cleanser with Rose & Chamomile Flower

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Yes To Grapefruit Daily Foaming Cleanser

PHOTO: Yes to

A person before and after using Yes To Grapefruit Daily Foaming Cleanser

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