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Top 9 Best Face Wash for Combination Skin

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedJuly 31, 2024

Combination skin can be tricky to manage, as it requires a balance between removing excess oil and preventing dryness. A proper facial cleanse is the most important component of the skincare routine, chosen according to the skin type, which is necessary for clear complexion. Thus, this article will focus on explaining which face wash is best for combination skin.

We devoted significant amount of time to the research and comparison of face washes that will suit different skin type. In the next sections, we will be able to share our favorite picks as well as give you all essential information for the smart purchase.

Top 3 Best Face Wash for Combination Skin

  1. Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II
  2. CeraVe SA Cleanser
  3. Cetaphil Face Wash

Finding a face wash that is suitable for combination skin type is never an easy task, we get it. That is why we have gone to the effort of sourcing for the information and trying out a number of the products to come up with what we consider to be the best products. Among our selection you will find facial washes that are powerful in cleansing the skin but do not cause skin irritation and tightness. Read on!


Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II

Editor's Choice

Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II

Revitalize your skin with Brickell's Essential Face Care Routine for combination skin. The cleansing step involves the usage of Purifying Charcoal Face Wash while the moisturizing involves the usage of Daily Essential Face Moisturizer. Effortless skincare routine to remove dullness and unveil a renewed, glowing skin every day based on nature’s efficiency.

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If you are looking for an effective shampoo for combination skin, count on the Brickell Men's Daily Essential Face Care Routine II.

Pros

  • Activated charcoal for deep cleansing
  • Revitalizing formula for a refreshed complexion
  • Controls excess oil without over-drying

Cons

  • Some users may find the scent strong
  • May cause mild side effects in some users

Having personally embraced this routine, it is observable that the routine works. The Charcoal Face Wash is used for deep cleansing, while the Moisturizer is used for moisturizing the skin but is, however, non-oily. It is not as abrasive as most chemical-laden products, which makes this particular regimen skin friendly.

This natural and organic approach to skincare guarantees that the complexion is cared for efficiently as well as softly. Achieve the glow of naturally healthy skin with Brickell’s regimen – where science merges with the power of nature for a great solution. Take your daily beauty ritual up a notch and wake up to a new, polished, and renewed skin every day.


CeraVe SA Cleanser

CeraVe SA Cleanser

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If you seek a face wash that can both, remove the dead cells and dirt on the skin’s surface and cleanse it without overdrying the skin, CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser will suit you. This salicylic acid foaming gel cleanser is derived from deep collaboration with dermatologists so that it can easily wash the face and the whole body, and also appropriate for acne-prone skin.

Pros

  • Using salicylic acid at night is effective for combination skin since it exfoliate dead skin cells and brightens the skin.
  • The clear gel becomes a foaming face wash when you start rubbing it in, and it helps clean the skin.
  • There are no harsh beads, grains or microbeads included in the formulation of CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser hence it is skin-friendly.

Cons

  • It may dry out your skin a bit
  • The face wash doesn't have a scent

In our experience, CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser is the best cleanser for combination skin. The salicylic acid portion of the product helps to eliminate the dead skin cells, and the clear gel turns into a foaming face wash for that clean feeling. It may also leave the skin a little dry and does not contain a scent or any feedback of cleaning which can be a put off for others. All in all we would recommend this face wash to anyone in search of mild scrub but a non-drying one in the first instance.


Cetaphil Face Wash

Cetaphil Face Wash

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We recommend those with sensitive, combination to oily skin to use the Cetaphil Face Wash. This daily facial cleanser works to clean the skin by eradicating traces of makeup, daily grime, and oil build-up coupled with pollution particles. It contains soothing ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol (provitamin B5), niacinamide (vitamin B3) to improve skin surface and lock skin’s moisture barrier.

Pros

  • Creates and strengthens the skin barrier, regulates the sebum production and smoothens the skin surface.
  • Dirt, excess oils, impurities, and pollution microparticles removed on clinical level when using the product.
  • Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic with no paraben and sulfate ingredients.

Cons

  • May not be ideal for extremely dry skin
  • Some users may find the formula too thick

Cetaphil Face Wash is gentle and powerful, which connects it reliably to the daily skincare procedure. It is dermatologist recommended for sensitive skin and defends against 5 signs of skin sensitivity: prickly heat, scaling, redness, flakiness, magntization, and impaired water retention capacity of the skin. Consequently, the deep-cleansing formula helps to cover the pores as much as possible without drying the skin and its natural protective layer.

It is simple to apply, it foams up well and gives the skin a clean, fresh feeling after washing it. It has an incense like smell and has no after feel on the skin or left over. All in all, it can be stated that Cetaphil Face Wash is a great option for every individual who in need of extremely mild yet effective facial wash for combined skin type.


Biore Balancing Face Wash

Biore Balancing Face Wash

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For those who want a facial cleanser that can work for combination skin, might want to look at the Biore Balancing Face Wash. It is a daily face wash that deeply cleans skin by washing through the pores to remove dirt and oil, gives an exfoliation where natural jojoba beads are used, and also moisturizes the skin where skin is dry and forming flakes.

Pros

  • Reveal radiant, soft skin with the face wash that rinses while it scrubs and moisturises.
  • This facial cleanser does not contain oil content and effectively cleans the pores removing all accumulated oil, dust and angry blemishes on the skin’s surface.
  • Wash off the dead and old skin cells with this luxurious baking soda infused face cleanser for that best clean.

Cons

  • May not be effective on extremely dry or oily skin types
  • The scent may be too overpowering for some users

We have been using this face wash for several week now and this product actually keeps the skin smooth, fresh, and glow with each wash. This is easily washable formula that can be used daily and the natural jojoba bead has a proper exfoliating action without being harsh. Any skin type benefits from using this face wash and after washing, we have a smooth skin and it feels refreshed.

However, this face wash may not be very useful to people with very dry or oily skin. Ineffective use is also marked by irritation or dryness among users who use the item excessively or too often. The smell of face wash is mild and appeals to my sense of smell though others might find it too strong.

All in all, the Biore Balancing Face Wash can be regarded as a good face wash for women with combination skin, which is pH balanced. As for the facial cultists it is vegan, non-animal tested and made.


Mary Kay Timewise Age Minimize 3D 4-in-1 Cleanser Combination to Oily Skin

Mary Kay Timewise Age Minimize 3D 4-in-1 Cleanser Combination to Oily Skin

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If you have the combination skin, and you are searching for a face wash with which you can get great results, the Mary Kay Timewise Age Minimize 3D 4-in-1 Cleanser Combination to Oily Skin is a perfect choice.

Pros

  • Leaves skin feeling soft and clean
  • Perfect for oily and sensitive skin
  • Includes a gentle exfoliant

Cons

  • May not work for extremely dry skin
  • Can be a bit pricey

We've been using this face wash for a while now, and it quickly became our go-to face wash. The cleanser makes our skin look fresh because it is clean, soft and has no area of irritation. That it comes with a mild scrub which assists in the rub off the dry skin and openness of the pores without aggression.

The Mary Kay Timewise Age Minimize 3D 4-in-1 Cleanser Combination to Oily Skin can be best for people having the oily and sensitive skin. It is useful in managing the secretion of oil and that makes the skin to feel refreshed after the application of the lotion. But sometimes it can be slightly terrible for people with very dry skin since it is something that tends to leave your skin dry.

However, the smell may be too powerful for some users. Also, the product we recommend has a relatively high price, although we are sure that it is justified by the outcome the client receives.


Farmacy Whipped Greens Face Wash

Farmacy Whipped Greens Face Wash

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If you're looking for a face wash that cleanses, scrubs, detoxifies, and moisturises the skin, then Farmacy Whipped Greens Face Wash will work for you. Because it yield good result and does not leave skin bare of its natural oils, we strongly endorse this product.

Pros

  • The face wash is gentle on the skin and performs the cleaning prowess.
  • It is endowed with papaya enzyme that soft peels and eliminates the pile up of grime, sebum and debris on the skin surface.
  • Green clay used in face wash affects the skin by drawing out any toxins and exfoliated surface oils and buildup without robbing it of its moisture.

Cons

  • It is a bit expensive
  • May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin

The Farmacy Whipped Greens Face Wash is perfect for combination and oily skin. It is made from natural products and the results produced to help give you a healthy looking skin. The face wash is very convenient, it foams richly and gives the skin a refreshed feel.

The face wash also helps to remove makeup well, and they do not remain on the face as stubble. Overall, it is ideal for anyone who seeks to have an appropriate skin moisturizer, for both male and female use.

Finally, if you need a product that will assist you break into that realm of having a supple, healthy glowing skin, then this Farmacy Whipped Greens Face Wash is the ideal product for you.


InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser Face Wash

InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser Face Wash

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We recommend the InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser Face Wash for individuals with combination skin. Due to its capability of effectively removing makeup, this product would be ideal to be used in the skincare routine because it moisturizes the skin as well.

Pros

  • The face wash lightens and firms the skin, minimizes the size of pores and diminishes the signs of aging such as wrinkles, dark spots and fine lines.
  • Rich in Vitamin C, Aloe Vera, Coconut water along with botanical extracts to hydrate and noursh for a better skin tone and a bright complexion.
  • It is suitable for all types of skin including the sensitive skin.

Cons

  • The packaging may be inconvenient for some users.
  • Some users may not see immediate results.

The InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser Face Wash is an ideal option for those who would like to enhance the look of their skin and/or reduce skin issues. It is very convenient for use because all that is needed is to wet the product and apply it on the skin or face and a feeling of refreshment is felt from the product. The Vitamin C Facial Cleanser helps in making wrinkles, dark spots, and lines less visible on the skin. The presence of Vitamin C, Aloe Vera, Coconut Water and the inclusion of Botanical Extracts makes the skin to feel soften and moisturized.

Overall, the InstaNatural Vitamin C Cleanser Face Wash can be a perfect product for those who in search of skincare with combination complexion in order to get refined and radiant face. It is advisable to use this cleanser together with other products of the InstaNatural Vitamin C range.


Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser

Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser

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Paula's Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser is a splendid face wash for the combination skin kind and is very useful when it comes to controlling enlarged pores while leaving the skin feeling rejuvenated and moist. Dean recreation ingredients like hyaluronic acid help to nourish the skin after preparing your face to feel incredibly soft and smooth.

Pros

  • Helps reduce enlarged pores
  • Gives skin an all new feel and a natural glow of being renewed.
  • The cleanser comes with replenishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides

Cons

  • Packaging may vary
  • The cleanser is a bit expensive

We have found this cleanser to be an excellent product for combination skin. Gentle and efficient, the remedy should counteract the skin’s high pH while washing off the sebum and make-up. The very light foaming action it gives can effectively control oil without compromising the skin’s moisture while the use of rich surfactants and moderate cleansing can in the long run reduce the intensity and occurrence of pore clogging.

Furthermore, it comes with other similar ingredients like the sunflower seed oil and aloe that feet the skin without making it oily. The cleanser is quite friendly and can be used in the regular skin care regime.

All in all, we recommend Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser to all those with combination skin who want a mild yet efficacious face wash.


Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser

Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser

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If you have an oily skin or a normal type with an oily T-zone you might benefit from the Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser.

Pros

  • The active ingredient salicylic acid acts to decrease the occurrence of acne since it has the properties of an exfoliating agent.
  • The aloe vera will help moisturize the skin while at the same time minimizing instances of skin irritation.
  • It has a fresh smell and after washing your face with the cleanser your skin will be feeling fresh again.

Cons

  • The cleanser doesn't foam
  • Some users may find the scent too overpowering

We have been using this cleanser for several weeks and can testify that we have experienced enhancement of the facial skin. To ensure that the skin does not break out the product contains salicylic acid and aloe vera which also prevents any from of skin irritation or dryness. The scent with thyme is also pleasant, and adding it to the features of a showerhead only makes the process of washing even more enjoyable.

However, the cleanser does not lather, which is especially if you are accustomed to lathering cleansers. Still, this did not leave my skin feeling dull, nude, or parched as some cleansers tend to do.

Overall, if you are seeking for the face wash that will be able to deal with combination and oily skin, you should try the Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser.

Buying Guide

Skin Type

The first thing to consider is your skin type. Skin that is classified as combination skin is somewhat hard to handle because it is both oily and dry. Find a face wash that targets skins like the combination skin, or perhaps a gentle face wash is suitable. This will make sure that it doesn’t strip off the skins natural oils and hence does not cause any irritation in the dry regions of the skin,face included.

Ingredients

Another important factor to consider is the ingredients. Try to find a face wash that has natural property such as aloe vera, green tea or chamomile in it. These ingredients are mild and would not cause any inflammation or redness hence excellent in enhancing skin health.

Formulation

The formulation of the face wash is also important. Good ingredients to look for are; Avoid one that is harsh and drying. A foaming face wash is also recommended because it is gentle enough to wash off oil without polluting the skin.

pH Balance

It is also important to note the pH of the face wash and the suitable pH for skin is in between 4. 5 and 5. 5. In this case, search for a face wash that is of the right pH so that it will not affect the natural pH of the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should someone with combination skin look for in a facial cleanser?

When it comes to the ingredients used in making them, you need to look for those that control the production of sebum while at the same time not interfering with the skins natural production of oils. Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, may be helpful for some ethanol important elements to search for. These ingredients are effective for loosening the dirt that clogs pores, for removal of dead skin cells and for reducing the inflammation level, which in return results to better skin health.

How do Korean face washes cater to combination skin types?

Korean skincare is very popular thanks to its simple and efficient routines, based on proper moisturizing and gentle treatments. Any face wash that is meant for combination skin that is Korean will usually have ingredients such as green tea which has the ability to calm down the skin, and hyaluronic Acid which is also capable of hydrating the skin. Such ingredients can contribute to regulating the sebum production while, at the same time, boosting the skin’s moisture content.

What are the top drugstore face washes for managing combination skin?

There are many great drugstore face washes that will help to solve the problem. Some of the most recommended facial wash are Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, etc. These cleansers have added elements that can assist in regulating the secretion of oil on the skin without the skin getting dry or getting some irritation.

Which face washes are dermatologist recommended for combination skin with acne?

Dermatologists often recommend face washes that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for combination skin with acne. These ingredients can assist in decreasing the size of the pores, decrease inflammation, and kill bacterial that causes acne. For a dermatologist recommended facial cleanser, there are several which are preferred by many, the Differin Daily Deep Cleanser, CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, Proactiv Renewing Cleanser.

How can I find a face wash that promotes a glowing complexion for combination skin?

To get a face wash that enhances the skin’s radiance for combination skin, include ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha hydroxy acids within your product. It also has the effects of whitening and being nourishing for the skin, and it has specific effects relating to fighting against discoloration of the skin, such as spots and blemishes that cause a dark complexion. You can try Ole Henriksen Truth Juice Daily Cleanser, The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser, Peach & Lily Power Calm Hydrating Gel Cleanser.

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