Not Cleansing Your Skin Can Actually Lead To Rapid Aging (2024)

Cleansing your face is arguably the most important step in any skincare routine. “Besides makeup, there are many environmental aggressors, like pollution and bacteria, which can cause rapid aging if left on the skin,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. “It is important to wash these impurities away every single day.”

Other than rapid aging, an uncleansed face can lead to other skin issues over time. “When impurities are left in the skin, such as make up dirt or debris, this can cause chronic inflammation and lead to breakouts, redness or rosacea flares, congested pores, and other skin problems,” says Anna Guanche, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and celebrity beauty expert.

With so many different options out on the market, it can be tough to figure out which is the best facial cleanser for your skin type. Here, Dr. Engelman and Dr. Guanche dish on the 11 best cleansers for every skin type.

"I like this cleanser for oily skin because it removes dirt and grime without stripping the skin of its natural oils, which will cause oil production to go into overdrive." —Dr. Engelman

“It’s inexpensive, highly effective, and has been used in the derm world for ages. It also can be used as a makeup remover and can be gently wiped off without using water—super versatile and affordable." —Dr. Guanche

“I personally love the micellar water by Bioré because it traps makeup on a cotton ball and effectively removes it with less scrubbing and wiping than usual, which leads to fewer fine lines and wrinkles over time." —Dr. Guanche

“This cleanser uses squalene to offer supercharged hydration. The similarity of squalene to our own skin design allows it to penetrate the skin completely and synthesize quickly (2mm per second), so it won’t clog pores or leave a greasy residue behind.” —Dr. Engelman

“This oil cleanser utilizes vitamins, mineral, antioxidants, and other natural sources to remove makeup, dirt, and build-up, as well as soothe and soften the skin." —Dr. Guanche

“This pick contains 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide, which is beneficial for those with active acne lesions [active pimples] as it has antibacterial properties.” —Dr. Engelman

“This cleanser is a great beauty cleansing balm that melts into the skin and leaves it soft and glowing. It’s made of almond, olive, cocoa, coconut, and shea oils, and is great to remove makeup, dirt, and oil.” —Dr. Guanche

“This uses apricot oil, safflower oil, and olive oil to nourish the skin and restore the skin barrier, while being gentle enough for dry, compromised skin." —Dr. Engelman

“This cleanser is made of superfoods and is formulated with cold-pressed antioxidants extracted from kale, spinach, and green tea. This brand has a great following and people swear by their products.” —Dr. Guanche

This concentrated cleansing serum is non-foaming and won’t leave normal skin feeling too squeeky-clean or tight.

Best for easily-irritated skin, this cleanser is a cream formula and leaves skin soft and fully-cleansed, without that super-tight feeling. Try using it with a warm washcloth for some light exfoliation.