This list features gentle, fragrance- and sulfate-free face cleansers designed for sensitive, rosacea- or eczema-prone skin that cleanse effectively without triggering redness or irritation. Products were thoroughly researched and selected due to exceptional user ratings and reviews on independent sites, and insights from estheticians.
Finding the right cleanser when you have sensitive skin can feel like walking a tightrope — harsh ingredients, drying formulas, and hidden fragrances can leave your skin feeling tight, red, or reactive. Whether your skin is naturally reactive, rosacea, acne or eczema-prone, or sensitized by active ingredients or treatments, a gentle face wash is one of the most important tools in your skincare routine.
This guide breaks down exactly what to look for (and avoid) in a sensitive skin cleanser, plus the top-rated formulas for every need — from budget buys to calming picks for redness, rosacea, or dry skin.
Sensitive skin is more prone to irritation, redness, stinging, or inflammation in response to environmental triggers or common ingredients. Traditional foaming face washes and acne-targeted cleansers often contain sulfates, alcohols, or synthetic fragrances — all of which can compromise your skin barrier and make sensitivity worse.
The best cleansers for sensitive skin are:
When scanning the label, these are the ingredients that help support and soothe sensitive skin:
To keep your skin calm and balanced, avoid:
Even the best cleanser can’t protect you from poor technique. Here’s how to cleanse gently:
Here are the best gentle cleansers for sensitive skin, each backed by reviews and ingredient research:
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser – $8.86
This dermatologist-loved cleanser is as gentle and minimal as they come. It removes dirt, oil, and makeup without fragrance, parabens, dyes, sulfates, lanolin or formaldehyde releasers.
User reviews say: It's a holy grail for acne, eczema, and perioral dermatitis. It leaves skin calm, clean, and hydrated. They love the efficacy of this cleanser for the pricepoint.
SkinCeuticals Soothing Cleanser – $39
A gentle yet purifying foaming cleanser, made with glycerin and cucumber extract, that works to hydrate, calm and clean skin. This formula is so gentle it is often recommended for post-procedure skin.
User reviews say: Those with acne- or rosacea-prone skin swear by this cleanser. Many comment that it effectively cleanses their skin without causing dryness or irritation, and soothes redness or active breakouts.
Sanitas Skincare Sensitive Skin Cleanser – $32
Formulated with aloe vera and beta glucan (and without irritants, sulfates or fragrance), this ultra-mild cleanser removes impurities without causing redness or stripping the skin.
User reviews say: This is a life saver for sensitive skin. They love the minimalist ingredient lists and ultra-gentle nature of this cleanser. Many comment that it leaves their skin feeling clean, hydrated and never irritated.
Eminence Organics Stone Crop Gel Wash – $42
Formulated with stone crop, shea butter, and chamomile, this cleanser nourishes and calms with skin, while removing dehydrated layers of cells from the skin's surface. Skin appears smoother and feels softer.
User reviews say: It calms and brightens the skin (many notice that their dark spots are reduced), and leaves skin feeling soft. The fresh scent is a bonus!
Epionce Milky Lotion Cleanser – $36
A gentle and creamy, non-foaming cleanser that dissolves makeup and impurities, while maintaining the skin's natural moisture. Ideal for compromised skin, this cleanser works to soothe inflammation and strengthen the cell's natural lipid barrier.
User reviews say: This cleanser makes skin instantly feel softer, and quickly works to eliminate flakes.
Dr. Loretta Gentle Hydrating Cleanser – $40
Formulated with marine peptides (and without sulfates), this gentle and nourishing cleanser hydrates the skin while removing makeup and impurities. Hydrolyzed algin reduces free radical damage, making it ideal for aging skin.
User reviews say: They love how gentle this cleanser is, commenting that it is particularly effective at cleansing and hydrating dry skin or during winter months.
What type of cleanser is best for sensitive skin?
Look for a fragrance-free gel or cream cleanser with soothing, non-stripping ingredients like glycerin, aloe, and ceramides.
Can sensitive skin use foaming cleansers?
Yes, but only if they’re sulfate-free and contain hydrating ingredients. Some foams (like SkinCeuticals Soothing Cleanser) are safe for sensitive skin.
Should sensitive skin use fragrance-free cleansers?
Yes. Artificial fragrance is one of the most common irritants. If you love a scent, opt for a product scented with natural extracts (like stone crop or chamomile).
Is micellar water good for sensitive skin?
Micellar water can be a good gentle option — just avoid formulas with alcohol or fragrance. Rinse after use if your skin is reactive.
How often should you cleanse sensitive skin?
Once to twice a day is plenty. In the morning, you can skip cleanser and rinse with water if your skin feels balanced.
*Ratings as of April 2025, from Amazon and Dermstore