9 Gentle Yet Effective Foam Cleansers That Won’t Dry Out Your Skin (2024)

Our Top Picks

Active Ingredients: Purslane, aloe vera, panthenol | Size: 5.07 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

We're big fans of this formula in German aesthetics doctor Dr. Barabra Sturm's eponymous line. The nourishing elixir contains purslane (an antioxidant to reduce signs of aging), soothing aloe vera, and antioxidant vitamin E—all in a super luscious foam that rinses off nicely. In our experience, one pump takes off even a full face of makeup, so you can count on one bottle lasting you a while. There's no denying that it is on the pricier side, but when you consider its efficacy, high-quality ingredients, and the fact that it's part of a luxury skincare line, it's well worth the splurge.

Active Ingredients: Sage, chamomile, grape extract | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

A perennial favorite among Byrdie editors, this sudsy option contains ingredients such as hydrating glycerin, soothing chamomile extract, purifying sage water, and antioxidant-rich grape water for a fresh, clean face sans soap or sulfates. Also nice: It's rich in hyaluronic acid, which keeps skin hydrated and buoyant, effectively preventing that uncomfortable tight feeling some cleansers provide. Keep in mind that the formula does contain a fragrance, so if you have skin that's highly reactive to fragrances in cosmetics, you might want to skip this one or check with your doctor before trying it out.

Active Ingredients: Glycerin, bromelain | Size: 13.52 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

In order to understand how this formula differs from the rest, you have to understand what exactly micellar water is and what it does. According to Dr. Garshick, micellar waters rely on micelles, which are small molecules that come together to gently lift makeup, oil, and dirt from the surface of the skin, making it a very effective cleansing ingredient. This cleanser from Garnier combines the benefits of micellar water with the sensorial benefits of a foaming wash to deliver a powerful cleanse at a very wallet-friendly price. Be aware that the formula can come out of the bottle quickly, so be gentle when dispensing the product—or else you run the risk of making a mess and losing some of the precious liquid in the process.

Active Ingredients: Sodium cocoyl glycinate | Size: 7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

A favorite of Dr. Weimann's, this foaming facial cleanser contains fine bubbles that can penetrate skin pores, making it a helpful option for acne-prone skin types that need a little more help clearing gunk out of their pores. “It features bromelain (an enzyme from pineapple), which has helpful anti-inflammatory properties, making this ideal for those with red, irritated, or acne-prone skin,” she says. Effective at removing makeup and excess oil without disturbing the skin barrier, this cleanser also makes our list of best face washes. Another plus: It contains a blend of enzymes and amino acids that help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, revealing a brand new layer of skin. But, it does contain fragrance, which can be a deal breaker if you have sensitivity to fragrances in cosmetics.

Active Ingredients: Glycerin, niacinamide, ceramides | Size: 8, 12, 16 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

While milky and creamy cleansers are often recommended for those with sensitive skin, Dr. Weimann says this foam cleanser—which is gentle enough for even the most sensitive of skin types—is a good exception to the rule. Credit the use of hydrating, skin-supporting ingredients in this formula, which collectively provide moisture to dry or irritated skin, she explains. In this formula, you'll find three essential ceramides (naturally occurring lipids that protect the skin's barrier), hyaluronic acid (an ingredient that retains skin moisture), and niacinamide (a calming, soothing ingredient). The only downside to this product is that it contains parabens, which are preservatives often used in skincare products to prevent bacteria or fungus from growing in the formula, increasing the shelf life. There is a decades-long debate about the ingredient, as some research suggests it can potentially disrupt the endocrine system (meaning they can interfere with hormone production). However, according to EU andFDA regulations, parabens in their current form are officially considered safe to use, since cosmetic products only use a very small concentration of these ingredients in their formulas.

Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid, soy extracts | Size: 6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

While foaming formulas are good face washes for oily skin in general, this one is an especially efficient option, since it contains salicylic acid to help keep pores clear of clogging oil. The salicylic acid, along with soybean protein, also helps exfoliate dead skin cells that contribute to overall dullness, says Dr. Weimann of another one of her favorites. "It’s a great option for anyone who wants an overall brighter complexion," she adds. While salicylic acid is a great ingredient for anyone looking to combat oil, it doesn't always play well with other skincare ingredients.

Active Ingredients: Glycerin, shea butter, niacinamide, thermal spring water | Size: 13.52 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Need further proof that a foaming cleanser can be gentle? This one is so mild that it touts the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Dr. Weimann lauds it for containing hydrating ingredients such as shea butter and thermal spring water, which both help reduce inflammation and hydrate dry, irritated skin. Perhaps best of all, it works equally well on both the face and body. Just keep in mind that you should double-cleanse if you're trying to remove makeup. While this cleanser does a great job of clearing away oil and debris, you'll want to lean on a proper makeup remover to get rid of waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation.

Active Ingredients: Glycerin, rose and lotus flower extracts | Size: 13.52 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Foaming cream cleansers can be a great option for combination skin types, offering the best of both worlds. This one in particular hits just the right balance because of how nice and clean it leaves our skin feeling, without ever veering into stripping territory. We love that it contains a few ingredients that replenish the skin barrier, too: glycerin (a type of ingredient that helps attract and retain moisture), camellia oil (a natural oil that helps moisturize the skin), and ceramides (those naturally occurring lipids we spoke about earlier).

Active Ingredients: Greek yogurt, amaranth seed extract, sea water | Size: 5.07 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Think you can’t use a foaming cleanser if you have dry skin? Think again. This one is a cream-to-foam, soap-free formula that contains a heaping dose of moisturizing Greek yogurt. Why yogurt? Aside from being a protein-rich snack, yogurt is a good source of skin-nourishing prebiotics and probiotics (and we've also been told it's like Neosporin for the skin!). It is rather rich—which makes sense, given we're talking about yogurt here—it lathers beautifully and rinses easily. The result: Clean skin without dryness, irritation, or that annoying tight feeling. Some say this formula caused breakouts after the first few uses; while we can't say we experienced that ourselves, it's something to be aware of if you're prone to acne.

FAQ

• Is foaming cleanser good for sensitive skin?

  If you have sensitive skin, you'll want a more gentle foaming cleanser. (Many foam cleansers are not gentle, so that is an important distinction.) You can look specifically for products that note they're safe for sensitive skin on the label or avoid cleansers with ingredients that you know may irritate your skin.