Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash

*Est. $6 for 6 oz.
Reviewed
October 2011
Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash

Best inexpensive facial cleanser

Pros
  • Appropriate for all skin types
  • Gentle
  • Removes makeup
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Leaky container when traveling
  • Contains fragrance
  • Can be difficult to find
Where to Buy
 

Experts say a basic water-soluble cleanser like Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash is the best option for most skin types. This simple formula doesn't contain any bells and whistles but reviewers say that it does an excellent job of cleansing skin and removing makeup. Although several users with sensitive skin claim to use this gentle cleanser without any irritation, the small amount of fragrance it contains may cause flare-ups for some. Editors at InStyle magazine say that Purpose lathers up nicely but doesn't strip the skin of necessary oils. Users love the convenient pump dispenser, but several say that it leaks when traveling. If you prefer a more travel-friendly facial cleanser, experts say you should consider disposable cleansing wipes like Pond's Original All Day Clean Towelettes ( *Est. $6 for a 30-pack ).

Beautypedia.com is an excellent source for beauty reviews, including an unbiased critique of Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash. In this online database, author Paula Begoun analyzes the ingredients of hundreds of cleansers and rates them for their safety and efficacy. InStyle magazine tests Purpose for their annual beauty awards, comparing it to other top facial cleansers, as does Allure magazine. User reviews at MakeupAlley.com, Drugstore.com and TotalBeauty.com offer insight into the overall comfort level of the cleanser.

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Original Clean Wet Cleansing Towelettes Pond's 30 Pc Towelettes For Unisex
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Where To Buy
Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash, 6-Ounce Pump Bottle

 (55 reviews)
Buy new: $10.00 $4.67   15 New from $2.69

In Stock. Eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping

 

Our Sources

1. Beautypedia.com

Paula Begoun gives Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash her highest rating, saying that it's suitable for all skin types except very dry. She notes that the formula is identical to that of Clean & Clear Foaming Facial Cleanser, Sensitive Skin – which she says is "one of the best beauty buys at the drugstore."

Review: Gentle Cleansing Wash by Purpose, Paula Begoun, June 6, 2011

2. InStyle

Editors of InStyle magazine recommend Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash for those with sensitive and/ normal skin. It's gentle but effective at removing dirt and makeup without stripping the skin of natural oils.

Review: Best Beauty Buys 2010: Skin, Editors of InStyle magazine, May 2010

3. About.com

Julyne Derrick, beauty guide for About.com, says that Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash is her daily cleanser of choice because it removes dirt, makeup and oil but doesn't dry out the skin. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)

Review: Best Cleansers for Every Skin Type, Julyne Derrick

4. MakeupAlley.com

More than 800 reviewers at MakeupAlley.com give Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash a high overall rating. Most agree that it is a simple and gentle cleanser that effectively cleanses skin and removes makeup. Some complain that it doesn't travel well, though – the container tends to leak.

Review: Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash, Contributors to MakeupAlley.com

5. Drugstore.com

Several reviewers at Drugstore.com say that they have used Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash for years because it does an excellent job of cleaning skin and removing makeup without causing any irritation. Some say that it dries out skin but that a bit of moisturizer takes care of the problem.

Review: Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash, Contributors to Drugstore.com

6. TotalBeauty.com

Reviewers at TotalBeauty.com give high marks to Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash. It is well-liked by all skin types but some say that an additional makeup remover is needed for mascara and heavy makeup.

Review: Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash, Contributors to TotalBeauty.com

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