The highlight of any long day? Easy. Washing off our makeup as soon as we get home. Yes, we know what you’re thinking, but unstrapping the bra is a close second.
And as cleansing is the first (and therefore arguably most important) step in any skin care routine, it’s crucial to understand the varying benefits of each different formula.
Whether you love a supermarket steal or are treating yourself to a luxe splurge, you’ll always be faced with the impossible task of selecting from an overwhelming amount of options.
So, from soothing creams to oil-banishing foams, here’s a breakdown of all the cleansing options on offer and our favourites within each category.
The four different types of cleansers…
#1 Oil cleanser
Once you’ve made the switch to a cleansing oil, you’ll be addicted to the sparkling clean and deeply nourished feeling. The laws of attraction mean there’s nothing better than oil to draw out excess sebum and surface residue, including waterproof mascara. Just apply it with dry hands to a dry face before washing away with water. Each of the below cleansing oils suit all skin types and even shine-prone skin will be left with gorgeously oil-free feel.
Best suited for: Most skin types, particularly dry.
Skin Physics Prebiotic Multi Cleansing Oil
We say: Enriched with rosemary extracts, antioxidants and a unique bio lipid complex, this cleansing oil works to smooth out the skin, protect the barrier function and slow down the premature ageing process.
Want to know more? Read Skin Physics Prebiotic Multi Cleansing Oil reviews here…
$39.95 at Skin Physics
CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
We say: Enriched with three essential ceramides, this cleansing oil will gently melt makeup and dirt away while helping to encourage skin regeneration. Plus, the inclusion of squalane oil will replenish the skin without leaving you feeling sticky or greasy.
You say: “It has quickly become a staple in my skincare routine. I have dry, sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts, and this cleanser has been a game changer for me. It removes all of my makeup, including stubborn eye makeup, without stripping my skin of its natural oils. I noticed a significant improvement in the texture and hydration of my skin after just a few uses.” – yamillefr1
Want to know more? Read CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser reviews here…
$23.99 at Adore Beauty
#2 Foam cleanser
Foaming cleaners get a bad rap for stripping the skin, but if you choose a gentle formula, you can’t beat bubbles for a deep down, zinging clean.
Best suited for: oily, teenage or acne-prone skin
La Roche-Posay Micellar Foaming Cleanser
We say: Not into nasties? Then this lathering formula is for you. It’s free from fragrances, colourants, alcohol, parabens and soaps. The cleanser respects your skin’s natural pH balance while also removing makeup and ridding your skin of impurities.
You say: “A little goes a long way, it lathers well, and one bottle lasts a couple of months. I have sensitive skin and it is gentle and doesn’t dry my skin out. It also removes eye make up easily without stinging. It is affordable but also regularly goes on sale in Priceline and Chemist Warehouse so I usually find it half price and will stock up when I find it discounted.” – Courtneyroche
Want to know more? Read La Roche-Posay Micellar Foaming Cleanser reviews here…
$25.49 at Chemist Warehouse
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
We say: Models get spots too, you know. Or they would if they didn’t have this little baby on rotation. Cetaphil has been a backstage beauty secret forever and there’s no question as to why. This low-foam formula melts away oil, dirt and heavy makeup residue on the spot.
You say: “This is my go to cleanser. It never lets me down . Always clears my skin right up and helps prevents breakouts from worsening. It is gentle to use daily on sensitive skin without causing any irritation or dryness. It leaves my skin feeling clean and removes makeup thoroughly.” – Brownskingirl
Want to know more? Read Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser reviews here…
$17.99 at Chemist Warehouse
SkinB5™ Australian Botanicals Cleansing Mousse
We say: Soothing and non-drying in nature, this fluffy foam comes loaded with 8 highly active botanicals spanning from snowflower to Kakadu plum. It provides a sensory treat as well as a thorough cleanse that leaves skin as glowy as it is fresh.
You say: “The airy foam texture makes application a delight, transforming into a luxurious foam that effortlessly removes impurities. This is a must-have for anyone who struggles to find a suitable cleanser for their acne-prone skin and needs something gentle enough for daily use.” – smsmakeup
Want to know more? Read SkinB5™ Australian Botanicals Cleansing Mousse reviews here…
$29.95 at Skin B5
#3 Gel cleanser
Often formulated with BHA or AHAs, gel cleansers provide an intense clean that is suitable for acne-prone skin. Sitting in between a foam and a cream cleanser, gels offer an ideal formula for normal to oily complexions.
Best suited for: Oily and combination skin
Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Gel Cleanser
We say: Made for acne-prone skin, this gel cleanser contains salicylic acid to decongest, ginger root extract to absorb excess oil and cinnamon bark extract for its antibacterial properties. You can blast blemishes and remove dirt, residue and oil all with this one oil-free, non-drying formula.
You say: ” I like to leave mine on for a few minutes to let in soak in before washing it off. Afterwards my skin feel super clean and fresh, love it!” – bettina44
Want to know more? Read Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Gel Cleanser reviews here…
$56 at Adore Beauty
SkinCeuticals Simply Clean
We say: Clarify skin, smooth out rough textures and remove stubborn makeup. Infused with chamomile and aloe, this soothing cleanser will calm irritated skin as it cleans. One better? Use alongside the FOREO LUNA 2 Sensitive Skin ($369, Adore Beauty) and make sure no pore goes unclogged and no makeup residue gets left behind.
Want to know more? Read SkinCeuticals Simply Clean reviews here…
$60.30 at Better Value Pharmacy
#4 Cream cleanser
The most moisturising of all cleansing varieties, cream cleansers offer multi-purpose benefits and leave the skin refreshed and deeply clean. Otherwise labelled as a lotion or a milk, these formulas are typically well tolerated by sensitive, dry and mature skin types.
Best suited for: Sensitive and dry skin
Trilogy Cream Cleanser
We say: Packed full of antioxidants and rosehip oil, this super creamy number is like a relaxing spa treatment that just happens to leave your skin crystal clear.
You say: “I have sensitive skin and this is gentle and leaves my face feeling clean and soft. I use it with my battery cleansing brush and I can see from my brush that is removes all the grime and makeup from the day. Nothing is nicer than the feeling of clean soft skin.” – JuJu47
Want to know more? Read Trilogy Cream Cleanser reviews here…
$12.50 at Chemist Warehouse
esmi Skin Minerals The Uncomplicated Cleanser
We say: Suitable for all skin types and concerns, this gentle cream cleanser thoroughly removes makeup, leaving clean, calm and supple skin in its place.
You say: “I love this cleanser because I feel like it does a great job at keeping my skin soft and hydrated whilst giving a thorough deep clean. My skin doesn’t feel tight or stripped when using this cleanser. I feel like my skin has never felt so perfectly balanced and I feel like this cleanser was made for my exact skin type. I love it.” – Izzy09
Want to know more? Read esmi Skin Minerals The Uncomplicated Cleanser reviews here…
$49 at esmi Skin Minerals
Main image credit: @summerfridays
Have you tried any of these cleansers? What type of cleanser do you use?
I use an oil to remove makeup. AM i use a cream. PM i use a foaming gel.
Which foaming gel do you use?
I love the foam and oils, they are super nice.
So many great Cleansers to use would like to try Natural Instinct Replenishing Cream Cleanser, sounds Wonderful to use.
Cleansing your face of all makeup is so important, also after a hard day at home, with cooking and cleaning, it is also important to cleanse your Skin.
Always makes me feel refreshed and Clean.
I use cleansing oils and cream cleansers. My favorite cleansing oil is Palmers.
Is it fragrance free Meedee? Thanks.
Spoilt for great choices!
I usually use an oil to remove heavy makeup, and micellar water or micellar wipes to remove lighter makeup. Then I use Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser under the shower to remove any residual. They say you shouldn’t use cleanser under the shower, but my skin is looking and feeling good so it’s working for me.
I do part of my cleansing under the shower and then I do another cleanse in front of the mirror!
Reported MICHEALRACHEL post as spam……
Not a fan of cloths and wipes I don’t feel they don’t do a deep enough clean
I don’t like wipes either and they aren’t the best for the environment!
I’ve never used an oil cleanser cos I thought it wouldn’t work with my oily skin. Seems like i had the wrong idea about it.
Oil cleansers are great for oily skin. It seems counterintuitive but they work wonderfully at removing dirt, gunk and all that jazz!
A lot of choice.
Gel and foam cleansers are my favourites
I have used both the Ultraceuticals foaming cleanser and the gentle cleansing gel and love them both.
I really love Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm. It removes every trace of the most stubborn makeup, even eye makeup. It seems expensive, but you only need to use a very small amount, so the tin will last you a long time.
I’ve heard the best things about this balm. Would love to sample it before purchasing it!
Helpful article, like to use a diffrerent cleanser depending on the season.
Ooh. I never thought about using different cleansers depending on season. Will give this a whirl!
I use a cream cleanser morning and night and add an oil cleanser as my first cleanse in the evenings. I love my cleansing routine.
I am not keen on microcellular water cleaners or wipes as they are not eco friendly but love foam or oil cleansers
What’s not eco-friendly about micellar water JuJu? I’m curious! 😊
I’m a SOLID and PlASTiC FREE cleanser type gal and really with BeautyHeaven would consider including options like these in their articles.
Wipes. Are. Not. Cleansers. At best, highly recommend a soft cotton or muslin cloth (hell, you go an old cotton flannel pillowcase? cut that up) and use that. Reusable, eco friendly and potentially a lot more gentle.
Heatherrs, I agree with you about wipes but do you make your own cleansers?
I precleanse with a oil or balm, then a cream cleanser. The cloths and wipes are good if we go camping.
Spam below – 1 count.
BH, please remove.
I am open to using them all except for the wipes, they are so wasteful.
Definitely Jurlique are super. I got quite excited when I saw your comment, freaky then I realised it was 2018. I really hope all is well with you.
Sleeping on a flannelette pillowcase makes me wake up with dreadlocks! I bought some machine washable makeup pads which feel like white flannel. They’ve been going strong for a few years so far! I’ve got a sewing machine, so I’m going to make some more when my current stash wears out.
Oil cleansers work well on my oily, blemish-prone complexion, too. I used to hate cream cleansers, but they work best with my Dermasonic+ cleansing device, so I mostly use those now.
Manicare Makeup Remover Towels are also great – I’ve got a 4-pack of the minis.
Love the body shop cleanser.
I love cleansing oils for removing makeup and following up with a cream cleanser.
I don’t like foaming cleansers but I’m interested to try an oil one.
I like QV’s gentle foaming cleanser. Feels great and cleanses well.
Love Ultraceuticals cleansers.
Flannel is so so nice and soft and being (usually) 100% cotton means no microplastics either. I think it’s a great and solid way to upcycle product you probably already own 🙂 I hope your sewing goes well!
Great reference article – I’m saving it to my faves
The Body Shop chamomile cleanser looks nice!!
Great article!
If I have a lot of makeup to remove I use Shu Uemuras Oil Cleanser, which removes everything in one go.
When I only have a small amount of concealer to remove I use the Cetaphil cleanser, not so heavy-duty but still does the job!
Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil is the best cleansing oil ever.
I’ve tried 2 different brands of Oil Cleanser and it’s not what I would use again. Currently using a L’Oreal Cream Cleanser.
Thanks, heatherrs!
I’d be lost without my sewing machine. I’ve gone back to using hankies (reduce, reuse, recycle), so I made a huge batch of 32 hankies.
The Simple oil cleanser is a staple in my skincare stash
I use cream cleansers, I found foam cleaners didn’t quite do the job for me
Oil cleanser changed my life! I double cleanse every night. Oil then a foaming. I only use the foaming one in the AM though.
I haven’t tried any of the above cleaners but I have just started the Bioderma Cleansing oil from the Rewards Room samples. It’s the first time I have tried an oil cleanser.
On my face I usually use a gel cleanser but I often like to double cleanse with say a cream/oil cleanser and then a gel cleanser or a mix of any two different types like a face wipe and then a gel cleanser.
This is interesting
I’m not too keen on oil-based cleansers. I’m using up the Glowlab cleansing balm on non contact lens days but prefer my Sukin foaming cleanser.
Open to try oil cleanser on my face , currently using one on my body and leaves my skin feeling supple !
I love oil, gel and cream cleansers. I need to get a solid bar cleanser as they seem more environmentally friendly.
Give me a cream cleanser any day. I would think an oil one wouldn’t ‘come clean’ with just water
My favourites are oils, balms and cream cleansers.
I tried simple cleanser and natural instinct cleanser here. I would love to try others.
Good timing, I need a new cleanser. Cream cleansers are best for my dry skin. The Trilogy or Natural Instinct cleansers sound tempting.
spam from melvin below too please remove BH
i want to try an oil, i dont like micellar ones anymore