7 soap-free cleansers that clean your skin without stripping it

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7 soap-free cleansers that clean your skin without stripping it

If the name hadn’t already given it away, we’re about to dive into an edit of  the best cleansers that don’t contain any soap. And while the concept of washing your skin without the one ingredient we’ve grown up being told we need to keep clean seems bogus, we promise there’s some benefit behind reaching for a soap-free formula. 

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Yes, cleansers that contain soap are widely regarded for their ability to thoroughly clean the skin. When combined with water, they lather up and emulsify, effectively lifting oil and dirt from deep within our pores. However, this deep clean can often be at the expense of our skin barrier. The foaming consistency of soap and sulfates can often be too harsh, leading to irritation, itching and throwing our pH off balance.

Additionally, when making the switch, you need to choose wisely. Not all soap-free formulas are created with the same effectiveness and some have been known to leave dirt on the skin. You know when you swab a cotton pad over your skin post-cleansing and some makeup and dirt still comes off? Yeah, that. 

That’s why we are here to point you in the right direction of all the best soap-free formulas. Our edit below features picks that will be gentle enough on your skin for twice-daily use and also leave no oil or dirt behind. Enjoy!


Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser

We say: The Burt’s Bees sensitive skin-friendly formula has been carefully crafted with natural and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, cotton and rice extract. It helps to moisturise sensitive skin while gently removing makeup, dirt and oil sitting on the skin’s surface.

You say: “In my opinion, this is the best facial cleanser on the market. Great for my skin which is ever so slightly sensitive, and I love using a product that is all natural.” – lardeedah

Want to know more? Read Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser reviews here…

 

Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Soapless Gel Cleanser

We say: If you are typically prone to redness or acne, Avene’s non-comedogenic formula will leave your skin refreshed, clean and irritation-free. The addition of monolaurin (a by-product of coconut fat) works to remove impurities and reduce the production of excess serum without drying out your skin.

You say: “I loved this cleanser because it has a light, pleasant fragrance and it works well. I noticed that it doesn’t lather a lot but just enough to make sure that the face is thoroughly clean.” – neha.gamine

Want to know more? Read Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Soapless Gel Cleanser reviews here…

 

The Body Shop Aloe Calming Foaming Wash

We say: So it turns out going soap-free doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the foaming action altogether. Formulated for all skin types, The Body Shop’s refreshing cleanser dissolves the day’s impurities and leaves the skin refreshed before you hit the pillow. 

You say: “I love the really soft foam and how gentle yet cleansing it is on the skin. I use this with my cleansing device and it really does give the best clean without drying out the skin. Importantly for me, this facial wash doesn’t contain alcohol and using this regularly, I have really seen an improvement in the hydration of my skin. It’s also fragrance free which is a bonus.” – eskimo82

Want to know more? Read The Body Shop Aloe Calming Foaming Wash reviews here…

 

Trilogy Clarifying Cleansing Gel

We say: If you associate a deep and thorough cleanse with a tight and dry after-feel, get ready to change that.  Trilogy’s deep-cleaning and gel textured cleanser uses salicylic acid to exfoliate, witch hazel to tone and an omega-rich combination of rosehip, jojoba and grapeseed oil to leave the skin nourished and soft.

Want to know more? Read Trilogy Clarifying Cleansing Gel reviews here…

 

A’kin Cleansing Micellar Water

We say: If soap-free and rinse-free formulas are more your style, keep the skin refreshed with Akin’s pH balanced cleansing water. The effective makeup remover contains a soothing blend of organic coconut water, green tea, cucumber and lavender for a complexion free from impurities. 

You say: “I really liked using the A’kin Micellar Water. It was very effective in taking off my makeup and was gentle on my sensitive skin. It left no rash or tightness and the fragrance is lovely.” – Marclaire

Want to know more? Read A’kin Cleansing Micellar Water reviews here…

 

Essano Clear Complexion Purifying Gel Cleanser

We say: Containing the active ingredient Bio-D-Tox to control sebum, improve skin tone and retain moisture, Essano’s soap-free formula works as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial for acne-prone skin. 

You say: “I love love love this face wash! I have had very bad acne and i am allergic to most face washes but not this one! It is so gentle on my skin.” – VeganLlama99

Want to know more? Read Essano Clear Complexion Purifying Gel Cleanser reviews here…

 

Novellus Fruit Enzyme Cream Cleanser

We say: In order to ensure your serums can work their magic, they need to be able to absorb into a clean, prepped base. Unclog pores and remove dirt, oil and environmental pollutants with this vitamin-rich cream cleanser from Novellus.
 

Want to know more? Read Novellus Fruit Enzyme Cream Cleanser reviews here…

 

 

Main image credit: @summerfridays Have you tried a soap-free cleanser? Which is your fave?

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Comments 50

  1. The only one of these I’ve tried is The Body Shop. At the moment I’m using Simple Micellar wipes or Bioderma to remove makeup and Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser under the shower.

  2. Lots of Cleansers really need a cleanser have always used Micellar and Cucumber Wipes.
    Would like to buy the Micellar Reusable Pads with the Micellar Cleansing bottle. Will buy it next week.

  3. My skin isn't dry or sensitive, so I'm not fussed about whether a cleanser is soap-free or not. I used to prefer scrubs, but I now use cream cleansers because they work best with my Dermasonic+ silicone cleansing device.

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