Best Face Wash for Sensitive Skin: I Tested 4 Cleansers for 14 Days Each

The search for the best face wash for sensitive skin began months ago after my favorite cleanser was discontinued. Life got busy, so I kept putting it off, but eventually I couldn't avoid the search any longer.

For years, I used the Neutrogena Foaming Face Cleanser, so I was disappointed when I found out it had been discontinued. I did a poll on my Instagram and received several great suggestions. I decided to test three of those recommendations, along with one cleanser that was gifted to me.

To give each product a fair chance, I used each cleanser for 14 days to see how it performed, and whether it deserved a place in my skincare routine.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

First on my list was the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. Right away, it reminded me of my previous cleanser. It had a lightweight, gel-like consistency and just enough slip to glide comfortably across my skin. It didn't produce much lather, but that wasn't something I was concerned about.

Whenever I try a new face wash, I wait a few minutes after cleansing to see if my skin feels tight or dry. With this cleanser, I didn't experience either. Throughout the entire 14 days, my skin felt comfortable, clean, and balanced. I honestly had no complaints.

The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm

Next, I tried The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm. I had never used a cleansing balm before, so I was curious after one of you recommended it.

From the first use, I knew it would be a completely different experience. The texture felt much more like an oil than a traditional cleanser. In fact, it almost felt like I was washing my face with Vaseline. It also had a slight scent that wasn't my favorite, but I wanted to give it a fair trial.

After every use, I found myself checking my face to make sure I had rinsed it completely because it always felt like there was a layer of residue left behind, even though there wasn't. While it cleansed my skin well, the texture simply wasn't for me. This one will really come down to personal preference.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser

My third cleanser was the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid. Since my longtime favorite cleanser came from Neutrogena, I thought this would be a promising replacement.

This cleanser had a pleasant gel-like consistency and glided nicely across my skin. It cleansed thoroughly and left my face feeling fresh. However, a few minutes after washing, I consistently noticed a slight feeling of dryness. This happened throughout the entire 14-day period.

If you don't have dry or sensitive skin, this cleanser may work well for you. Unfortunately, my skin seemed to prefer something a little gentler.

Fresh Soy Face Cleanser

My final cleanser was the Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, which was gifted to me.

This cleanser feels like something you would experience during a spa facial. It has a silky texture that glides effortlessly across the skin, and it has a very light, fresh fragrance that isn't overpowering. Since I'm usually concerned about fragrances in facial products, I was pleasantly surprised that I actually enjoyed this one.

The only downside was that I once again noticed a slight feeling of dryness after cleansing. It also comes with a much higher price tag than the other cleansers I tested, most of which are easily found at the drugstore.

Which Face Wash Won?

Can you guess which cleanser earned a permanent spot in my skincare routine? If you guessed the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, you're right!

Out of all four cleansers, it felt the most comfortable on my skin. It cleansed well without leaving my face feeling dry or tight, and my skin responded positively throughout the entire 14-day period. For me, it ended up being the best face wash for sensitive skin out of the products I tried.

I'm so grateful to everyone who shared recommendations because I found a cleanser that I genuinely enjoy using. At around $12, it's also budget-friendly, but if you know me, you know I'll be looking for a coupon or sale before I buy another bottle! What’s your favorite face cleanser?