Best facial cleansers for oily skin

Discover the most effective facial cleansers for oily skin, formulated to control excess sebum and prevent breakouts. Our guide includes expert-recommended options, from gel to foaming formulas, that help maintain a balanced and healthy complexion. Find the ideal product for your skincare routine, addressing concerns like acne and clogged pores. Explore the best solutions for clean, fresh, and shine-free skin.

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  1. 1

    CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

    128 Global Votes
    • Deeply cleanses normal to oily skin

      (+4)

    This cleanser is a top choice for oily skin because it effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin's natural moisture. Its formula, enriched with ceramides and niacinamide, helps maintain the skin barrier and calm breakouts.

  2. 2

    CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

    93 Global Votes
    • Removes dirt, oil, and makeup

      (+4)

    This dermatologist-recommended cleanser is excellent for oily skin as it effectively regulates sebum production with salicylic acid. It also ensures the skin remains moisturized and its barrier protected through ceramides and hyaluronic acid.

  3. 3

    Bioderma Sebium Gel Moussant

    60 Global Votes
    • Leaves face clean without drying

      (+4)

    Dermatologist-recommended for oily skin, this gel moussant effectively removes impurities with antibacterial zinc and copper sulfates. It also gently exfoliates with lactic acid and moisturizes with humectants, providing a balanced cleanse.

  4. 4

    Cetaphil PRO Foaming Face Wash

    27 Global Votes
    • Clinically proven formula for oily skin

      (+4)

    An accessible and effective drugstore option, this foaming face wash is ideal for controlling oil and shine on oily skin. It contains zinc, an ingredient known for its ability to help reduce oil production.

  5. 5

    Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser

    25 Global Votes
    • Works wonders for bright and beautiful skin

      (+4)

    This cleanser is excellent for oily skin, especially if sensitive, as it uses a low concentration of salicylic acid to unblock pores and control oil. It achieves this without causing redness or dryness, making it suitable for daily use.

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  7. 6

    La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser

    24 Global Votes
    • Removes makeup, dirt, and excess oil

      (+4)

    This foaming cleanser is highly recommended for oily skin as it efficiently removes makeup, sunscreen, and oil buildup without causing irritation. Its inclusion of ceramides, niacinamide, and thermal spring water ensures a deep cleanse while maintaining skin health.

  8. 7

    Skinceuticals LHA Cleansing Gel

    19 Global Votes
    • Exfoliates skin effectively

      (+4)

    A high-quality, multi-tasking cleanser, this gel is excellent for oily skin due to its LHA content, a salicylic acid derivative. It effectively cleanses, exfoliates, brightens, and smooths the skin, addressing oiliness and improving overall texture.

  9. 8

    Minimalist Salicylic Acid + LHA 02% Cleanser

    14 Global Votes
    • Reduces acne and oil

      (+4)

    This budget-friendly cleanser is highly effective for those with oily skin and breakouts, as it contains salicylic acid to remove excess oil. It's strong enough to tackle blemishes yet gentle enough for daily use.

  10. 9

    Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser

    11 Global Votes
    • Effectively cleans without stripping skin

      (+4)

    This gel-to-foam cleanser is highly praised for its gentle yet powerful cleansing action, making it suitable for oily skin. Packed with antioxidants from kale, spinach, and green tea, it removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin.

  11. 10

    La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

    10 Global Votes
    • Makes face feel very clean

      (+4)

    Highly effective for breakout-prone oily skin, this gel cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid, which is crucial for dissolving oil and dead skin cells within pores. This action significantly reduces blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.

  12. 11

    Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser

    8 Global Votes
    • Dissolves excess oil

      (+4)

    This cleanser is a strong option for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin, as it contains salicylic acid to actively treat and prevent breakouts. It targets existing blemishes while working to prevent future ones.

  13. 12

    Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser

    6 Global Votes
    • Gentle formula ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin

      (+4)

    An intelligent choice for oily yet sensitive skin, this cleanser effectively removes oil, dirt, and light makeup while preserving the skin's outer barrier. Its special cleansing polymers ensure thorough cleaning without disturbing essential moisture.

  14. 13

    Tiege Hanley WASH Daily Face Wash

    4 Global Votes
    • Leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed

      (+4)

    This face wash is recommended for oily skin because it cleanses thoroughly without stripping, thanks to its sulfate-free formula and skin-mimicking oils. It also balances oil production with niacinamide and provides antioxidant benefits with vitamin E.

  15. 14

    Clinique Take The Day Off Facial Cleansing Mousse

    3 Global Votes
    • Removes facial makeup, dirt, and oil

      (+4)

    This gel-based or foaming cleanser from a well-known brand is a reliable option for managing oiliness on oily skin. It is specifically designed to help control excess oil, leaving the skin feeling clean and refreshed.

  16. 15

    Episoft OC Cleansing Gel

    1 Global Votes
    • Works for oily skin

      (+4)

    This budget-friendly cleansing gel is suitable for mild to moderate oiliness, balancing effective cleansing with soothing properties. It contains very gentle surfactants and hydrating ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide.

  17. 16

    DrLOUIE Mild Face Cleanser

    0 Global Votes
    • Smells great

      (+4)

    This cleanser is highlighted for its perfect balance of deep cleansing and gentle care, making it ideal for oily skin. Its low-soap, pH-balanced base effectively removes impurities and excess oil without disrupting the skin's natural barrier.

  18. 17

    Algae Deep Cleanse

    0 Global Votes
    • Combats acne and unclogs pores

      (+4)

    Ideal for congested oily skin, this rich, creamy cleanser provides a refreshing cleanse while purifying and refining pores. Its blend of marine algae, clays, and nourishing oils effectively removes buildup and excess oil without stripping.