Cleansers for Sensitive Skin

Facial cleansers for dry or sensitive skin

Those who have dry or sensitive skin need to be especially careful when choosing a facial cleanser. This is not a simple task because products that are labeled for dry or sensitive skin can sometimes be too harsh. In fact, Paula Begoun says that the ingredient list of a product should be the basis of a purchase decision and not the label. In general, people with dry, sensitive skin should look for creamy cleansers that are soap and fragrance free and void of any other harsh ingredients. Pamela Edwards at Essence magazine says that products that contain lactic acid, glycerin or hyaluronic acid are good choices. She recommends Cetaphil cleansers for all skin types for those who don't have the time or inclination to study labels.

Aveeno is another brand that claims to be gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser (*Est. $7 for 6 oz.) is recommended by several reviewers at MakeupAlley.com because it still lathers, even though it is soap-, oil- and fragrance-free. It also contains feverfew, a botanical extract that the company claims will reduce inflammation. Paula Begoun, however, cites a study that shows that feverfew can cause contact dermatitis. She also states that because feverfew is a plant producing pollen, those with pollen-related allergies should avoid this cleanser. It contains relatively little feverfew, though, so it may not cause any problems.

Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash (*Est. $6 for 6oz.) is recommended by experts and consumers alike because it is a gentle, water-soluble cleanser that cleans without stripping the skin of essential moisture. It is identical to Clean & Clear's Foaming Facial Cleanser, Sensitive Skin (*Est. $5 for 8 oz.), which is also made by Johnson & Johnson, and which editors at Allure and Shape magazines believe to be one of the best drugstore cleansers available. At the department store, Good Skin Soft Skin Creamy Cleanser (*Est. $12.50 for 6.7 oz.) is an affordable option that is a good emollient cleanser for dry skin. It is so gentle that a washcloth may be needed to rinse it off completely, but reviewers still consider it an excellent product.