The 9 Best Face Washes For Men [2023]

Last updated May 18, 2023

Man washing their face

Gentlemen, it's time to elevate your skincare game with by finding the perfect face wash for your unique needs. A good face wash can make all the difference in your grooming routine, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and healthy. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start.

Whether you're dealing with acne, dry skin, or just looking for a daily cleanser, we've got you covered.

In this post, we'll break down the top face washes for men, highlighting the best features and ingredients for different skin types. So, put down the old bar of soap and step up to the plate with confidence as you explore the best face washes for men on the market. We'll guide you through the different types of face washes, and their pros and cons, so that you can make an informed decision about which one to try.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Oars + Alps Gentle Foaming Face Wash

Oars + Alps Gentle Foaming Face Wash is a prebiotic-infused, clarifying cleanser, specifically formulated for men. It's gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and helps remove dirt and excess oil from your face without drying or stripping your skin's natural oils. The unique blend of natural ingredients such as aloe vera and coconut oil leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed and hydrated. And best of all, it's free of alcohol, parabens, phthalates and sulfates. Oars + Alps gentle foaming face wash is perfect for your daily cleansing routine.

Oars + Alps Gentle Foaming Face Wash

The "Good"

  • Prebiotics boost collagen and balance the skin’s pH
  • Simple to use foam, leaves zero residue

The "Could Be Better"

  • Mild scent leaves a bit to be desired

Active Ingredients

Aloe, Bacillus Ferment

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Runner Up: Huron Men’s Face Wash

Huron Men’s Face Wash offers a deep cleanse without compromising on hydration and nourishment. With a blend of natural ingredients like aloe and cactus, it helps calm and soothe the skin and keep you looking refreshed all day long. The Huron product does a good job of removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, while leaving the skin soft and hydrated.

Huron Men’s Face Wash

The "Good"

  • Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free
  • Cleanses AND Exfoliates

The "Could Be Better"

  • Not great for acne treatment or prevention

Active Ingredients

Bamboo Powder, Aloe

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Best For Dry Skin: Brickell Men's Purifying Charcoal Face Wash

Get fresh and germ-free skin without sensitivity and irritation with Brickell Men's Purifying Charcoal Face Wash—a must have men's cleanser. Made with 100% certified organic and natural ingredients, it prevents abrasions and allergies and maintains your skin’s natural oils and texture. Brickell's face wash is ideal for tackling dirt, oil, and other impurities while respecting the skin's natural balance.

Brickell Men's Purifying Charcoal Face Wash

The "Good"

  • 100% natural and organic
  • Formulated for men’s skin

The "Could Be Better"

  • Not suited for oily skin

Active Ingredients

Charcoal, Aloe

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Best For Oily Skin: Lumin Charcoal Cleanser

Lumin's Charcoal Cleanser is perfect for men looking to cleanse their skin from excess dirt and oils, while maintaining a healthy complexion. This facial cleanser contains two key ingredients to provide maximum results: charcoal and rose flower oil. Charcoal helps with skin detox, removing impurities from the pores, giving you that deep-down clean you crave. Rose flower oil helps calm irritated skin and reduces puffiness. Lumin's gentle, yet effective formula won't strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling refreshed and balanced.

Lumin Charcoal Cleanser

The "Good"

  • Great for balancing oily skin
  • Leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed.

The "Could Be Better"

  • Packaging isn't a squeeze bottle or pump, making it a little tough to use.

Active Ingredients

Charcoal, Rose Flower Oil, Centella Asiatica

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Best For Sensitive Skin: Geologie Sensitive Face Wash

Geologie Sensitive Face Wash is a specially formulated face wash designed to meet the specific needs of men. It contains natural and organic ingredients that help to soothe and nourish sensitive skin, while also providing a deep cleanse to reduce inflammation and protect against environmental damage. This face wash is gentle enough for all skin types, but is particularly well-suited for those with sensitive skin. It can be used daily for a refreshing and effective face cleansing experience, without drying out the skin. Geologie Sensitive Face Wash effectively removes dirt, oil, and other impurities, leaving the face feeling clean and refreshed.

Geologie Sensitive Face Wash

The "Good"

  • Gentle product, great for sensitive skin
  • Smells great

The "Could Be Better"

  • Might dry out skin for some

Active Ingredients

Salicylic Acid

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Best Morning Face Wash: Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash is a facial cleanser made specifically for men! The gel-based facial wash is specially formulated to provide superior cleansing, while also delivering a boost of energy. It's packed with key ingredients like caffeine, vitamins C and E as well as menthol to help exfoliate and revive the skin. The facial wash is also free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates, making it a great choice for those looking for an all-natural facial cleanser.

Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash

The "Good"

  • Caffeine helps energize the skin
  • Good for morning or night

The "Could Be Better"

  • Packaging issues seem a bit too common

Active Ingredients

Caffeine, Vitamin E, Menthol

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Best For Cleanser + Toner: Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser

The Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser for men is designed to gently remove dirt, oil and other impurities while leaving your skin looking healthy, balanced and refreshed. Featuring a blend of key ingredients such as aloe vera, sage oil, and witch hazel, it helps soothe and nourish skin while lifting away buildup. It is specially formulated to provide deep cleaning action without stripping the natural oils in your face. For those with sensitive skin, this facial cleanser will leave you feeling refreshed without excessive drying or irritation.

Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser

The "Good"

  • 2 in 1 cleanser + toner means less work and less clutter.
  • Great cleanser to get shave-ready skin.

The "Could Be Better"

  • Some complaints of irritation or rashes

Active Ingredients

Organic Aloe Leaf Extract, Sage Leaf, Chamomile

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Best Gentle Cleanser: Caldera + Lab The Clean Slate

Caldera + Lab's The Clean Slate is a certified organic and probiotic-powered cleanser that gently cleanses and nourishes the skin, leaving it refreshed and balanced. Its plant-based ingredients and probiotic blend promote healthy skin microbiome, while its gentle foaming action effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities. Suitable for all skin types, it can be used daily as part of your skincare routine. Say hello to radiant, healthy-looking skin with The Clean Slate.

Caldera + Lab The Clean Slate

The "Good"

  • Gentle yet effective formula
  • Natural and organic ingredients

The "Could Be Better"

  • May not work for all skin types
  • Some users complain of dryness or irritation

Active Ingredients

Squalane, Nelumbo Lotus, Fireweed

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

Best Gel Cleanser: Aesop Fabulous Face Cleanser

Aesop's Fabulous Face Cleanser is a professional-grade facial cleanser well-suited for men's skin. It's a gel-based formula that lightly lathers for easy application, and contains a mild formulation of purifying, hydrating, and skin-calming botanicals. This plant-based face cleanser effectively removes dirt, pollutants, and excess oil without stripping or drying out the skin. The combination of calming botanicals such as Bergamot Rind, Chamomile Bud, and Rosemary Leaf work together to leave the face looking and feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. This face wash is gentle and efficient, providing a calming sensation that will leave your skin feeling great without any dryness or irritation.

Aesop Fabulous Face Cleanser

The "Good"

  • Great for all skin types, but especially dry skin
  • Good hydration, leaves skin feeling refreshed
  • Vegan and cruelty free product

The "Could Be Better"

  • Priced on the high end
  • Gel product can feel oily to some

Active Ingredients

Bergamot Rind, Chamomile, Rosemary Leaf

Want to read the full product review? See it here.

The Importance of a Daily Cleansing Routine

Facial care is just as important for men as it is for women. Men's skin is thicker and tends to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores, acne, and other skin issues. Daily facial cleansers help to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that accumulate on the skin throughout the day, leaving men's faces looking and feeling fresh and clean. Neglecting to care for your skin can result in premature aging, wrinkles, and other long-term damage.

In addition, a proper facial care routine can improve overall skin health, leaving the skin smoother, softer, and more youthful. It's essential for all men to incorporate a daily facial cleanser into their skincare routine to maintain healthy, clear skin.

Recommended: The Ultimate Skincare Routine for Men

Face Washing 101

Alright, let's start with the basics for you beginners. Here a simple step-by-step face washing routine that works with pretty much any face wash of your choosing.

  1. Select the right product for your skin type and unique needs.
  2. Wet your face with luke warm water. This helps open up pores and prepares your skin for cleansing.
  3. Apply a small amount of face wash to your hands, and get a good lather going.
  4. Gently massage the lather onto your face in circular motions, paying special attention to the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) which are the oiliest areas. Avoid the eyes and mouth and avoid scrubbing your face aggressively.
  5. Rinse thoroughly with luke warm water and pat your face down gently with a dry towel.
  6. Move onto the next step of your skin care routine, like applying a moisturizer or eye cream.

Most dermatologists recommended you limit face washing to twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime. If you workout or just are a sweat heavily, washing your face slightly more frequently is fine to avoid the skin irritation that sweat can cause.

What To Look For By Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is essential when selecting a face wash because different skin types have different needs. For example, men with oily skin require a face wash that can effectively remove excess oil without drying out the skin. On the other hand, men with dry skin require a face wash that hydrates and moisturizes the skin, preventing it from becoming flaky and itchy. Using the wrong face wash can lead to skin irritation, acne breakouts, and other skin problems.

The best face washes combine clean and healthy cleansing with gentle moisturizing. Knowing your skin type will help in finding the right balance and ultimately, the right product.

Oily Skin: If you're dealing with oily skin, you want a face wash that can keep shine under control and keep your skin looking fresh and matte. Look for a face wash that has an oil-control formula and ingredients that can help to reduce shine. Avoid heavy, creamy or oily formulas, those will only add to the oiliness. Additionally, look for a face wash that gently exfoliates, this can help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts.

Dry Skin: When it comes to finding the perfect face wash for dry skin, the key is to look for ingredients that can provide hydration and nourishment to the skin. Look for face washes that have a creamy, moisturizing formula, those will help to replenish the skin's natural oils and leave it feeling smooth and hydrated. Avoid face washes with harsh or stripping ingredients which tend to dry out skin. Opt for gentle, soothing face washes, or those that are formulated for sensitive skin. Remember, hydration is key when it comes to dry skin, so look for face washes that will keep your skin hydrated, refreshed and feeling good.

Acne-Prone Skin: Men with acne-prone skin should look for face washes that contain ingredients that can help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Some key ingredients to look for include:

  • Salicylic acid: This beta hydroxy acid helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
  • Glycolic acid: This alpha hydroxy acid is a gentle exfoliant that can help to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogging of pores.
  • Benzoyl peroxide: This is an antimicrobial agent that helps to kill the bacteria that cause acne.
  • Tea tree oil: This essential oil has natural antiseptic properties that can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
  • Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant can help to brighten the skin and reduce redness caused by acne.

It's also important to look for a face wash that is non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores, and free from harsh ingredients like alcohol, which can dry out the skin, and fragrances which can irritate the skin.

Common Ingredients And Their Benefits

There are several ingredients to look for when choosing a facial cleanser, depending on your specific unique skin type, skin texture, or facial issues. Some of the most common ingredients found in face washes include:

Aloe: Aloe is a succulent plant that is commonly used in skincare products for its soothing and moisturizing properties. In a men's face wash, it can help to soothe and hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and moisturized. It is also known to be beneficial for treating sunburn, acne, and other skin irritations. Additionally, Aloe is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and inflammation in the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient that is commonly used in skincare products for its antioxidant and moisturizing properties. It can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV rays, which can lead to premature aging, fine lines and wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. In a men's face wash, it can help to hydrate and moisturize the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and smooth. Vitamin E can also help to reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for men with sensitive skin or conditions such as acne.

Glycerin: Glycerin is derived from plant-based oils and is commonly used in skincare products as a humectant. It is a type of moisturizer that can help to hydrate the skin by drawing water from the air into the skin cells. In a men's face wash, it can help to moisturize and hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed, smooth and supple. Glycerin also helps to protect the skin's barrier, which can be important for men with sensitive skin, as it can help to reduce water loss and keep the skin hydrated for longer periods of time.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is commonly used in skincare products for its brightening and anti-aging properties. It is known for its ability to help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as to help reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration. In a men's face wash, it can help to brighten and even out the skin tone, leaving the skin looking refreshed and revitalized.

Niacinamide: Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is commonly used in skincare products for its anti-aging, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. In a men's face wash, it can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can also help to improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. It can also help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration, leaving the skin looking brighter and more even.

It's important to note that not all face washes contain all of these ingredients, also some might have different concentrations. It's important to read the label and understand the ingredients in a product before buying, and to choose the one that fits your specific skin needs.

Summary

Ultimately, the best face wash for men is the one that works for your individual skin type and concerns. It's important to be consistent with your daily face wash routine and to use it as part of a complete skincare routine that includes moisturizer and sun protection.

Oars + Alps Gentle Foaming Face Wash is the ultimate choice for dudes who want a top-notch, gentle cleansing experience. It's also our top pick for men's foaming facial cleanser. The formula, packed with prebiotics, is free of harsh chemicals like alcohol, parabens, phthalates and sulfates, and infused with natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil, making it a solid option for any skin type.

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