Top 8 face washes for clear, glowing, dirt-free skin that you must try

A face wash gently cleanses the skin by removing dirt, oil, sweat, and impurities which build up throughout the day. Here are our top 8 picks for you.

Daily exposure to sun, and accumulated pollution, and dirt takes a toll on our skin, making it look dehydrated and dry. And in such a scenario, a great face wash comes to your rescue. A face wash gently cleanses the skin by removing dirt, oil, sweat, and impurities that build up throughout the day. Unlike regular soaps, face washes are formulated to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance while targeting specific skin concerns such as acne, dryness, or excess oil.

Best face wash for clear skin(Shutterstock)

From foaming face washes to gel based options, the market is flooded with a wide range of face washes suiting every skin type. And in case you are on the lookout for the best face wash as per your skin concerns, then here are our top 8 picks for you.

1. Mamaearth Ubtan Natural Glow Face Wash with Turmeric & Saffr...

Reasons to buy

Natural ingredients like turmeric & saffron for glow

Suitable for daily use on all skin types

Free from sulphates and parabens

Reasons to avoid

May not suit very oily skin

Fragrance might be strong for sensitive users

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

Mamaearth Ubtan Natural Glow Face Wash with Turmeric & Saffron

2. The Derma Co Face Wash with 2% Salicylic Acid and 2% Niacina...

If you are looking to buy a face wash for acne-prone and breakout skin, then The Derma Co Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Face Wash is the right option for you. This face wash combines salicylic acid and niacinamide to fight acne and blemishes. It unclogs pores, reduces excess oil, and prevents breakouts while improving skin texture. Niacinamide in this face wash soothes irritation and strengthens the skin barrier. This dermatologist-approved face wash works effectively on blackheads and whiteheads. With regular use, it helps achieve clearer, smoother, and healthier skin.

Reasons to buy

Contains salicylic acid for acne treatment

Dermatologist-approved formula

Niacinamide calms and repairs skin

Reasons to avoid

Not ideal for dry or sensitive skin

Slight medicinal smell

Can feel drying if overused

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

The Derma Co Face Wash

Customer Feedback

Customers appreciate this face wash for controlling breakouts effectively, giving a smoother and acne-free skin. However, a few customers mention dryness after daily use. 

3. Aqualogica Glow+ Smoothie Face Wash with Vitamin C, Hyaluron...

A face wash which is powered with vitamin C and papaya, the Aqualogica Glow+ Smoothie Face Wash refreshes and brighten dull skin. It's hydrating, gel-based texture deeply cleanses without stripping moisture, leaving skin soft and supple. Designed for Indian skin types, it combats pollution damage and adds an instant glow. This lightweight, sulphate-free face wash is suitable for everyday use, offering a radiant and healthy-looking complexion. With its smooth lather and fruity fragrance, it makes cleansing both gentle and energizing.

Reasons to buy

Hydrating formula with vitamin C & papaya

Gentle gel-based cleanser

Leaves skin fresh and radiant

Reasons to avoid

May not deeply cleanse heavy makeup/oil

Fragrance may not suit everyone

Glow results vary by skin type

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

Aqualogica Glow+ Smoothie Face Wash

Customer Feedback

Customers loved this face wash for its hydration and glow boost. Many customers note it feels gentle on skin. However, some felt it doesn’t control oil for long.

4. Dr. Sheth's Neem & 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash | For Oily & ...

Dr. Sheth’s Neem & 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash is a dermatologist-formulated cleanser for acne-prone skin. Neem extract in this face wash provides antibacterial action while salicylic acid penetrates pores to reduce breakouts, blackheads, and excess oil. This face wash helps soothe inflammation, purify skin, and improve overall clarity. Specially crafted for Indian skin exposed to pollution and humidity, it delivers targeted acne control without harshness. A trusted formula for those struggling with frequent pimples and oily skin concerns.

Reasons to buy

Effective 2% salicylic acid for acne control

Dermatologist-tested for Indian skin

Neem extract adds antibacterial protection

Reasons to avoid

Can be drying with frequent use

Breakout control may need consistent usage

Not suitable for very dry/sensitive skin

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

Dr. Sheths Neem & 2% Salicylic Acid Face Wash | For Oily & Acne Prone Skin | With 1% Zinc PCA, Vitamin E, C & B5 | Deeply Cleanses | Exfoliates Skin | Prevents Acne | For Men & Women | 100ml

Customer Feedback

Customers highlighted reduced pimples with regular use. They said it works well for oily, acne-prone skin. Some even mention the skin feels dry afterwards.

 

5. Mamaearth Rice Face Wash With Rice Water & Niacinamide for G...

Mamaearth Rice Face Wash blends rice water and niacinamide to deliver a smooth, glass-like skin finish. It deeply cleanses impurities while locking in hydration, making skin soft, supple, and radiant. Niacinamide in it brightens skin tone and improves barrier health, while rice water helps refine pores. This gentle, sulphate-free cleanser is suitable for all skin types and safe for daily use. Crafted with natural, toxin-free ingredients, this face wash promises brighter, clearer, and healthier skin with regular use.

Reasons to buy

Rice water & niacinamide for bright, glass skin

Free from parabens & sulphates

Gentle daily cleanser

Reasons to avoid

May not suit extremely oily skin

Not a deep cleanser for heavy dirt

Results may take time to show

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

Mamaearth Rice Face Wash

Customer Feedback

Customers like the softness and glow after the wash. Many reviews praise it as gentle and hydrating. Some felt it doesn’t help much with oil control.

 

6. CeraVe Foaming Cleanser For Normal To Oily Skin

CeraVe Foaming Cleanser is a dermatologist-developed formula which removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disturbing the skin barrier. Infused with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, it cleanses while maintaining hydration. Its gentle foaming action helps unclog pores, reduce excess oil, and leave skin fresh and comfortable. Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, this cleanser is suitable for normal to oily skin. Recommended by dermatologists worldwide, CeraVe ensures effective yet gentle cleansing for clear, healthy, and balanced skin.

Reasons to buy

Contains ceramides & hyaluronic acid

Dermatologist recommended

Gentle, fragrance-free formula

Reasons to avoid

Not ideal for very dry skin

Foam may feel light for heavy cleansing

Higher price point

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

CeraVe Foaming Cleanser For Normal To Oily Skin

Customer Feedback

Customers appreciate skin-friendly formula. Many have noticed reduced oil without dryness. While some customers feel the face wash is pricey.

7. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Foaming Cleanser | Face Wash for All...

A gentle cleanser which works effectively at removing dirt and impurities, Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Foaming Cleanser works on dirt and grime without irritating sensitive skin. Its hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula gently foams to cleanse while maintaining the skin’s natural balance. Dermatologist-tested and suitable for daily use, this face wash is ideal for those with delicate, easily irritated skin. This cleanser rinses clean without residue, leaving skin feeling soft, smooth, and fresh. A trusted choice for people seeking a mild yet effective daily face wash.

Reasons to buy

Hypoallergenic & gentle on sensitive skin

Dermatologist-tested formula

Free from harsh chemicals & fragrances

Reasons to avoid

Not strong enough for acne-prone skin

Slightly more expensive than regular cleansers

May not remove heavy makeup completely

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Foaming Cleanser | Face Wash for All Skin Types including Sensitive Skin | 6X Gentler Cleansing with Barriercare Technology for Men & Women | Cleanses Dirt and Oil | Hydrates & Protects Skin Barrie

Customer Feedback

Customers loved it for being mild and non-irritating. Many customers use it for daily gentle cleansing. Some customers mention it doesn’t help with oil control.

8. Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser , Daily Face Wash for Oily

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser is a dermatologist-tested formula which effectively removes excess oil, dirt, and impurities while being gentle on skin. Specially designed for oily and combination skin, it cleanses without clogging pores or over-drying. Its non-comedogenic and soap-free formula leaves skin feeling fresh, soft, and shine-free. Recommended for daily use, this cleanser helps maintain oil balance and supports healthier, clearer skin. A trusted choice for individuals looking for reliable skincare for oily concerns.

Reasons to buy

Gentle yet effective for oily skin

Controls shine without over-drying

Non-comedogenic & dermatologist tested

Reasons to avoid

Results vary for acne control

Slightly clinical feel, not luxurious

May not hydrate dry/normal skin

Click Here to Buy Click Here to Buy

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

Feedback Customer

Customers trust this face wash for oily skin care. It works well in reducing excess shine. Some reviews note it feels plain and basic.

Benefits of Using Face Wash

1. Effectively removes dirt, oil, and impuritiesDaily exposure to pollutants, sweat, makeup, and sebum can clog pores. A good face wash helps deeply cleanse and declog your skin, keeping it clear.
2. Prevents acne and breakoutsBy clearing dirt and excess oil, face wash helps keep breakouts, blackheads, and pimples at bay.
3. Balances oil productionExcess oil, especially in oily skin, can lead to shine and acne. Face washes help regulate sebum levels for a balanced complexion.
4. Improves texture and exfoliates gentlyRegular washing removes dead skin cells for smoother, brighter skin.
5. Enhances absorption of other skincare productsA clean base allows moisturizers, serums, and treatments to penetrate more effectively.
6. Hydrates and soothes the skinMany modern formulas include hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or chamomile to soothe and moisturize.
7. Helps maintain a youthful appearanceCleansing supports gentle exfoliation, reducing the appearance of fine lines and promoting a youthful glow.
8. Brightens complexion and minimizes poresKeeping pores clean and removing dullness enhances skin radiance and reduces the appearance of pores.
9. Protects the skin barrier better than soapUsing cleansers (syndets) instead of traditional soap helps preserve the skin’s pH balance and avoids irritation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

• How often should I use face wash?

  Once or twice daily is sufficient. Wash in the morning and evening—and after heavy sweating.

• Can I use face wash if I have sensitive skin?

  Yes. Choose gentle, hydrating, fragrance-free cleansers with soothing ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid.

• Is double cleansing necessary?

  It can be very effective—especially for removing makeup or sunscreen. However, if you have dry or sensitive skin, using just a gentle single cleanse may be better.

• What ingredients should I look for?

  Oily/acne-prone: Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide Dry/mature: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycolic or lactic acid Sensitive: Gentle humectants, minimal ingredient lists, fragrance-free formulas

• Can using face wash reduce signs of aging?

  Yes—when formulated with hydrating and exfoliating agents, face washes can smooth texture, enhance radiance, and improve skin elasticity.

Disclaimer:At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.