Cleansing and caring for the skin: rating of the best face wash gels in 2022

Updated: 09.11.2021 15:22:01

Expert: Daria Alekseevna Litvinova

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Proper care is the key to beautiful and youthful skin. Using special means from adolescence, you can prevent the appearance of early formation and maintain water-fat balance. The health of the skin directly depends on its cleansing. Previously, it was just washing with plain water and soap. But this often led to dryness and lipid imbalance. Today, manufacturers offer a huge selection of cleansers to suit every taste and budget.

Gel is the most common type. It not only cleanses of various impurities, but also has an anti-inflammatory effect. Unlike soap, the product does not dry out the skin. Thanks to its balanced composition, selected specifically for a specific type, it moisturizes and nourishes. It often includes plant extracts, oils and special medications.

When choosing a gel, you need to consider the following points:

age and your skin type. Smell and consistency are also important. A light, unobtrusive aroma indicates the absence of perfumed fragrances. The medium-thick texture will foam well and not spread when washed.

Products from popular brands guarantee safe and gentle cleansing. Before purchasing a gel of an unknown brand, you should study the composition to avoid allergic reactions. Experts from Expertology have compiled a rating of the best products for problematic, dry, oily and sensitive skin, as well as universal and cleansing gels, taking into account reviews from ordinary customers.

Rating of the best washing gels

The best cleansing gels for washing

Cleansing gels for washing should perform the main task - remove dust, dirt, sweat and makeup. They contain useful additives that can gently and, at the same time, effectively affect the skin, improve its condition, and maintain a healthy appearance for many years. Using the right product, you can see a positive result in a short time.

Christina with ANA Illustrious

Rating: 4.9

Christina washing gel with AHA Illustrious, gently acting, perfectly cleanses the skin of impurities, excess sebum, helps renew the upper layer of the epidermis and even lighten it a little, stop the aging process and the formation of freckles and age spots. The active components that provide this effect are citrus fruit acids, glycolic acid, they act as a peeling, and panthenol is aimed at restoring damaged skin areas and strengthening the protective barrier, it actively moisturizes cells along with witch hazel extract. The gel is suitable for regular washing and removing light makeup, even around the eyes - its formula is so gentle. The product can be used by people with sensitive skin, pregnant women, and is suitable for year-round care. And Christina with AHA Illustrious is not tested on animals.

Advantages

• skin moisturizing effect without cream;
• deep cleansing of the skin from makeup, sebum and impurities;
• stops pigmentation and aging;
• can be used by pregnant women and people with hypersensitivity of the epidermis;
• bottle with dispenser.

Flaws

• high price 1880 rubles.

Nivea

Price: from 150 rub.

" Nivea " belongs to a German company, and from Latin means "snow-white". The line includes several gel options, so it’s easy to choose the one that will cope with the stated task.

Types of Nivea gels:

• gentle;
• cleansing mattifying;
• refreshing;
• gel scrub;
• for sensitive skin, etc.

Let's consider one of them, for example, matting. This gel with an unobtrusive aroma gives the effect of moisturizing, cleansing and scrubbing. Small blue granules perfectly clean pores. It’s good that Nivea gels are easy to find and do not cause allergies. I'm especially pleased with the affordable price.

The best face washes for problem skin

Problem skin requires more care than other types. Special products can not only remove any impurities, but also prevent the appearance of new inflammations and reduce redness. The main criterion when choosing washing gels is the composition. It must be absolutely safe and not contain synthetic additives that negatively affect the condition of the skin. We included 3 products in our rating that are most effective.

Vichy Normaderm

Rating: 4.9

French skincare cosmetics are created on the basis of thermal waters, are absolutely safe for health, and many products have a healing effect. The cleansing gel is suitable for all skin types, including those prone to irritation. It effectively removes dust, dirt, sweat and makeup residues.

The light texture of the gel foams well, penetrates deeply into pores, is easily washed off, does not tighten or dry out. After use, the skin is cleansed, soft and smooth. Contains salicylic acid, known for its antibacterial properties.

With regular use, you can achieve positive results in a short time. Problem skin is well moisturized, sebaceous shine disappears, inflammation is reduced, and the appearance of new formations is prevented.

Advantages

• effectively removes dirt;
• anti-inflammatory effect;
• regulates water-fat balance;
• natural components in the composition;

Flaws

• not detected.

La Roche-Posay

Rating: 4.8

The French company creates cosmetics under the strict supervision of dermatologists and ophthalmologists. It is based on La Roche-Posay thermal water, known for its healing effects. All products are hypoallergenic, do not contain artificial additives, and are suitable for people with sensitive skin.

The washing gel gently removes all types of impurities, eliminates greasy shine, cleanses pores, and controls the water-oil balance. The zinc pidolate and glycosil included in the composition have an antibacterial effect and prevent the formation of inflammation.

According to reviews, daily use of the gel in the morning and evening makes the skin less sensitive to negative influences. It becomes even, smooth, acne disappears. The minimum consumption per wash allows you to use the product for a long time.

Advantages

• hypoallergenic;
• for all skin types;
• without smell;
• high anti-inflammatory effect;
• maximum cleansing;

Flaws

• not detected.

Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions™ Cleansing Gel (for problem skin)

Rating: 4.8

Our rating includes a cleansing gel from the famous Clinique brand, which was created specifically for caring for problem skin. It has the same therapeutic effect as medications for treating acne. After use, the skin becomes clean, well-groomed, and takes on a healthy appearance.

The unique formula allows you to penetrate deeply into pores and remove impurities. Antibacterial components prevent the spread of microorganisms that cause inflammation. With the help of fat-absorbing ingredients, its production is controlled and greasy shine is eliminated.

The gel foams well and is minimally consumed. Positive reviews indicate its high efficiency. With regular use, skin imperfections disappear and the appearance of new problem areas is prevented.

Advantages

• healing effect;
• control of subcutaneous fat production;
• antibacterial effect;
• deep and gentle cleansing;

Flaws

• not detected.

The best face washes for dry skin

Dry skin causes discomfort and discomfort to its owners. It is characterized by dehydration, peeling, itching, and a feeling of tightness. Manufacturers create special product lines for this type, which necessarily contain moisturizing and soothing components. By making the right choice in favor of an effective product, you can achieve excellent results in a short time.

Histomer Sensitive Skin Formula

Rating: 4.9

For dry skin that finds it difficult to choose a skin care product, Histomer Sensitive Skin Formula cleansing gel is ideal. Its formula is unique in its properties: the histomer cells of oak roots strengthen weakened capillaries and improve local blood circulation, the Repair Complex CLR (bifidobacteria lysate) improves the local microflora and nourishes the cells, and the hyaluronic acid in the spheres saturates the top layer with moisture, which the dehydrated epidermis lacks, Due to this, small facial wrinkles can be smoothed out. .

The gel is able to activate cellular respiration of the skin and start regeneration processes; after washing, it leaves a feeling of comfort and freshness without traces of tightness. True, the price is steep - from 2000 rubles, but the product is worth it, as women say in their reviews.

Advantages

• strengthening capillaries;
• moisturizing the top layer of skin;
• healing effect;
• Suitable for very sensitive and dry skin.

Flaws

• high price.

La Roche-Posay (Micellar Cleansing Gel)

Rating: 4.8

The popular French product included in the rating was developed taking into account the characteristics of dry, dehydrated skin. The composition does not contain parabens, sulfates and other chemical additives. The gel is recommended for use by the International Union of Dermatologists.

Micelles remove impurities and stubborn makeup. Specially selected components ensure maximum portability. A derivative of hyaluronic acid promotes regeneration, penetrates deeply into the skin, moisturizes and nourishes it. The Xanthine complex soothes, makes it smooth, firm and elastic.

According to reviews, after use the skin receives instant hydration, the effect of tightness and irritation disappears. Many users note the economical consumption and duration of use of one package.

Advantages

• delicate cleansing;
• intensive hydration;
• hypoallergenic;
• restoration of hydrolipid balance;

Flaws

• not detected.

Nonicare - intensive hydration and care 25+

Rating: 4.5

All cosmetics of the brand are made on the basis of noni fruit juice, which contains high concentrations of beneficial substances necessary to nourish and restore dry skin. The gel included in the rating contains no synthetic components and is labeled ECO.

A unique complex of plant ingredients gently cleanses of makeup and dirt, penetrating deeply into the skin, does not disturb its pH, and protects against the effects of hard water. Chamomile has wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects. Olive and avocado oils moisturize and promote recovery.

Bitter orange and grapefruit extracts tone and prevent the appearance of pigmentation and blackheads. Aloe vera extract soothes irritated skin. The washing gel has a well-foaming texture and a pleasant herbal aroma.

Advantages

• IVF product;
• maximum hydration;
• antibacterial effect;
• effective removal of contaminants;

Flaws

• not detected.

Facial care according to skin type

The selection of cleansers begins with determining the type of facial skin. Cosmetologists call 3 types:

• Dry;
• Fat;
• Combined.

Each skin type requires individual care, this also applies to cleansing. Choosing products for washing your face is not difficult, since most cosmetic products are designed taking into account your individual type. You can find a gel for washing every type of skin in any specialty store or on pharmacy shelves.

The best face washes for oily skin

Oily skin is characterized by a greasy shine, enlarged pores, intense formation of acne and blackheads. All this causes a lot of trouble for owners of this type. Incorrectly selected products, hard water, and the negative impact of environmental factors can aggravate the situation and lead to more serious problems in the future. We have selected 3 products that will help your skin stay healthy and well-groomed for a long time.

Thalgo Gentle Purifying Gel

Rating: 4.9

French cleansing gel with sea extracts is created taking into account the individual characteristics characteristic of oily skin types. It does not contain parabens, mineral oils or animal ingredients. Moringa seeds are rich in iron, calcium, vitamins A, B, C, E, and amino acids. They cleanse and refresh, giving a matte finish.

The gel regulates the production of subcutaneous fat and restores hydrolipid balance. It brightens and evens out the tone, localizes problem areas and prevents their reoccurrence. Acting as an antioxidant, it removes toxins and other harmful substances.

The light gel texture foams well, penetrates deeply into pores, and washes away any dirt and makeup residues. Minimum consumption per application is guaranteed by a convenient dispenser cap.

Advantages

• safe components;
• convenient packaging;
• effective cleansing;
• rapid restoration of water-fat balance;

Flaws

• high price.

Vichy PURETE THERMALE - refreshing cleansing gel

Rating: 4.8

Another Vichy product entered our rating thanks to high ratings from specialists and extremely positive customer reviews. PURETE THERMALE removes all types of impurities and copes with even very persistent makeup. It does not contain alcohol, parabens, artificial fragrances or dyes, and is a hypoallergenic product that has undergone strict dermatological control.

Thermal water strengthens, restores and soothes. Amylit gently cleanses. Special additives soften hard water and protect against the negative effects of the substances included in its composition. After a single use, a positive result is noticeable: oily shine disappears, the skin is smooth and matte.

Antibacterial components prevent the proliferation of bacteria, thereby preventing the emergence of new inflammations.

Advantages

• removes stubborn stains;
• anti-inflammatory effect;
• hypoallergenic product;
• regulates sebum production;

Flaws

• not detected.

Levrana cleansing gel “tea tree” (hydrophilic oil)

Rating: 4.6

The Russian brand produces safe cosmetics that consist of natural ingredients. In its production, only plant extracts and oils are used. There are no animal products in it. The gel is created for daily care of oily skin.

Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory, wound healing and antioxidant effects. It effectively fights acne, relieves swelling and redness. The product with a light mint aroma gives you a feeling of freshness throughout the day.

The creamy texture foams well and turns into airy milk upon contact with the skin. After regular use, the greasy shine disappears, the face looks healthy and well-groomed. According to reviews, high efficiency and optimal cost make the product popular among buyers.

Advantages

• natural composition;
• affordable price;
• nice smell;
• deep cleansing;

Flaws

• not detected.

Harmful components of facial cleansers

When purchasing a “wash,” first of all, you need to avoid purchasing products with sodium sulfates (lauryl, laureth, myrette). These aggressive surfactants dry out the skin, cause irritation and rashes. They are usually found in cheap skin care formulations.

Another undesirable component is mineral oil, a product of petroleum refining. At first it quickly softens and smoothes the epidermis, but then clogs the pores, leading to the appearance of pimples, acne, and the development of inflammatory processes.

You should not buy strong-smelling compositions in bright colors. They are rich in artificial colors and flavors that can cause a severe allergic reaction.

The best face washes for sensitive skin

Sensitive skin reacts to any, even the most insignificant irritant. Redness immediately occurs, and sometimes more serious complications accompanied by allergic diseases. In such cases, strict medical supervision and the correct choice of care products are necessary. In our rating we included washing gels that are recommended for use by dermatologists and have undergone strict testing in production.

Bioderma Sensibio DS+

Rating: 4.9

Cleansing gel is intended for sensitive skin, including children's skin and those prone to allergies. It gently and carefully cleanses and does not disturb the natural pH value. The gel does not contain parabens, sulfates, dyes and other chemicals.

The herbal complex is suitable for skin care with seborrheic dermatitis and prevents the formation of fungal infections. Lack of odor is a very important criterion for sensitive people.

Sensibio DS+ restores and controls the hydrolipid balance, forms a protective barrier against any negative influences. It significantly improves skin condition, prevents itching, flaking and redness. The dense consistency foams well and rinses off, leaving a feeling of lightness and freshness. Users note the convenient packaging with a flip-top lid.

Advantages

• plant composition;
• affordable price;
• no odor;
• therapeutic effect;

Flaws

• not detected.

La Roche Posay Toleriane caring wash

Rating: 4.8

LA ROCHE POSAY is a recognized leader in the production of professional cosmetics that undergo the strictest dermatological control. They are free of soap, alcohol, sulfates and fragrances. Suitable for people with allergic skin diseases.

Main active ingredients: thermal water, panthenol and niacinamide. They soothe and protect, restore hydrolipid balance, and eliminate the feeling of discomfort. The ceramides included in the composition help maintain natural moisture levels.

Buyers note a high therapeutic effect. After the first use, peeling, itching and redness are eliminated. With regular use, the sensitivity threshold decreases, the protective barrier prevents the negative effects of aggressive factors.

Advantages

• gentle cleansing;
• restores water-fat balance;
• calming effect;
• therapeutic effect;

Flaws

• not detected.

L'Oreal Skin Expert (Cleansing Gel Absolute Tenderness)

Rating: 4.7

It was not by chance that we included a well-known brand of washing gel in the rating. High efficiency and low price made it popular among the mass consumer. The gel does not contain alcohol and parabens, and gently removes residual dust, dirt, and stubborn makeup.

The light texture, when interacting with water, turns into a delicate, airy foam that penetrates deeply, does not dry out, does not irritate sensitive skin, but, on the contrary, thanks to jasmine and rose extract, soothes and softens. Glycerin and shea butter have wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

According to customer reviews, the fairly large volume of packaging and minimal one-time consumption make the product economical, which becomes another important criterion in favor of purchasing it.

Advantages

• delicate cleansing;
• budget cost;
• intensive nutrition;
• safe composition;

Flaws

• not detected.

Criterias of choice

The huge selection of facial cleansing products presented by manufacturers will leave most buyers confused. And the question arises: how to choose? In order to make a smart purchase, you should pay attention to the following factors:

• Composition of the product. Pay attention to the presence of chemicals. They are the primary cause of an allergic reaction. Most often, manufacturers save money by adding them to the composition.
• Best before date;
• Suitable for skin type.

The best universal washing gels

Universal products are designed to cleanse all skin types and are suitable for all ages. They are designed to effectively remove dirt, keratinized particles, excess sweat and fat, as well as decorative cosmetics. All family members can use such gels; they are indispensable for long-distance trains and travel. We present the 4 best tools that real users were satisfied with and which were highly rated by experts.

ANNA LOTAN Universal Cleansing Gel RENOVA

Rating: 4.9

Universal Cleansing Gel RENOVA care gel from ANNA LOTAN was created for all skin types. It has a hypoallergenic formula, which is also suitable for sensitive and dry epidermis, but is not recommended for oily skin, although women with this skin type use it and are satisfied with the result; they do not report any negative effects. The product does not cause a feeling of tightness; it does not contain alcohol or detergents; instead, the manufacturer used cleansing fruit acids, hydrophilic oil and collagen, which normalize the water-lipid layer of the skin and the acid-base balance immediately after the procedure to a pH level of 5.5.

The gel cleanses the skin of any makeup, even makeup and other impurities that settle on the face during the day. As a result, the skin becomes soft and smooth, and the effect of smoothing out small wrinkles is noticed.

Advantages

• suitable for sensitive skin;
• gentle cleansing of dirt and makeup;
• light peeling effect with fruit acids;
• normalization of the water-lipid balance of the skin.

Flaws

• not recommended for oily skin.

HOLY LAND Cleanser ALPHA COMPLEX

Rating: 4.8

The second most popular washing gel, HOLY LAND Cleanser ALPHA COMPLEX, can be used to cleanse any skin type, even sensitive ones. It is able to eliminate dryness of the epidermis and flaking - this is the action of fruit acids, which during the procedure break down the stratum corneum and remove it, while improving local blood circulation and local immunity, and sorbitol actively moisturizes.

The consistency of the gel is rather liquid, which, nevertheless, cleanses the skin well of impurities and makeup. As a result of its use, the face becomes lighter, cleaner, without hyperkeratosis, with a healthy color, without wide pores.

HOLY LAND Cleanser ALPHA COMPLEX gel is a medical product that is suitable for treating skin, its effectiveness and safety have been clinically proven. The price of the drug is steep - from 1190 rubles.

Advantages

• medical product;
• soft peeling with fruit acids;
• elimination of hyperkeratosis;
• normalization of skin water balance.

Flaws

• high price.

Holika Holika Aloe Facial Cleansing Foam

Rating: 4.8

The line of products from the Korean brand Holika Holika includes a washing gel based on aloe juice, Aloe Facial Cleansing Foam, and it, along with the famous leave-in gel, is very popular, especially among young people with problematic and sensitive skin.

The gel-like product must be applied to damp skin and massaged onto the face for a minute, this will form an airy foam that washes away makeup and excess sebum, including around the eyes. The formula cares for the epidermis, heals minor damage, a vitamin complex from plant extracts saturates cells with nutrients, as a result, the skin and epidermis becomes healthier and the complexion is evened out. However, you may feel dry after washing; for comprehensive care after the procedure, you should apply aloe gel or any cream according to your skin type to your face.

Advantages

• vegetable base;
• neutral formula for all skin types;
• noticeable hydration after the first use;
• regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands.

Flaws

• may dry out and leave a feeling of tightness.

3Lab Perfect Cleansing Gel

Rating: 4.8

The American brand's washing gel has become popular due to its high cleansing abilities and well-balanced composition, which gently removes dirt, flaking and irritation, does not affect the natural pH value, and controls the water-fat balance.

Active ingredients: lavender oil, green tea and ginko biloba. They give the skin radiance and prevent the appearance of tightness and dryness. A special caring formula nourishes and eliminates the appearance of blackheads. Antioxidants slow down premature skin aging.

A bottle with a dispenser cap controls the consumption per application. When interacting with water, the gel foams well and is quickly washed off, leaving no greasy film or sticky feeling. After use, the skin is clean, healthy and radiant.

Advantages

• balanced composition;
• convenient application;
• professional care;
• intensive cleansing;

Flaws

• high price.

Ahava Refreshing Cleansing Gel

Rating: 4.7

The next product included in the rating is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive ones. It does not contain parabens, sulfates and other chemicals, and its safety is confirmed by numerous dermatological tests. The unique formula helps remove all types of impurities, including stubborn makeup.

A balanced complex based on Dead Sea minerals contains potassium, magnesium and calcium, which promote natural skin restoration, control hydrolipid balance, and prevent moisture loss.

Consumer reviews and expert opinion are clear - the gel is the best universal product for the whole family, suitable for any age and skin condition. With daily use, you can achieve excellent results: it is cleansed, moisturized, looks young and healthy.

Advantages

• natural composition;
• hypoallergenic;
• effective cleansing;
• balanced complex;

Flaws

• not detected.