Best Natural Face Wash for All Skin Types

Best Natural Face Wash - Woman and Reflection of Woman in mirror, holding small container

Here we go again on some skincare. You know I love talking about serums and face masks and all the things, but let’s get down to the basics, right. Everybody needs a good face wash; I only like to use and share clean beauty products; and the best natural face wash for me may not be the right one for you. So here are my top picks for the best nontoxic face washes as well as some individualized recommendations (at the bottom) for specific needs and desires.

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Best Natural Face Wash

There are a few different formulations for nontoxic face washes (more on that just below), but I think it’s important to get a few things straight, depending on your needs.

One of the big things for me is whether a face wash will be able to remove my makeup – namely the eyeliner and mascaras. I also have sensitive eyes, so not only do I need a nighttime facial cleanser that’s good at getting the makeup and doesn’t hurt my eyes. If you don’t wear makeup or you have a makeup remover you love to use, this isn’t as important to you.

Also, I actively have 3 different facial cleansers. That’s not the case for everyone, but I have one in the shower (a gel), a cleansing balm that I use as part of a double cleanse at night, and then a cleansing oil or lightweight balm I use in the mornings. I say this only because you might want different formulas or have varying needs.

Regardless of your needs, however, your face wash needs to be effective – natural and non toxic cleanser or otherwise. Why? I mean, besides the obvious of actually wanting clean skin, truly clean skin will be less prone to breakouts and irritation. Clean skin also makes any products used after effective.

The best face wash for your skin is step one of any skincare routine (2 steps or 20). Follow with a toner, a serum, and a moisturizer for a full regimen.

And check out the best natural facial scrub. It’s great for everyone as well, giving you soft skin with the immediate results of ‘botox’ without any needles or appointments.

Types of Face Wash

Cleansing Balms

Cleansing balms are oil-based cleansers. The (good for you oils) are great at attaching themselves to the makeup, dirt, grime, sweat, and product on your face! These thicker products are incredibly hydrating, great for makeup removal, and ideal for deep cleansing.

Cleansing balms are a great first step to a double cleanse – using a balm followed by a cream-based cleanser or (my preference) a facial bar soap (this is my favorite one). The balm is great at getting that initial layer of oil-based items off (e.g. makeup, sunscreen, and natural oils). Then the second cleanser can effectively get your pores and skin clean (not having to first get through all the other items). Regular double cleansing eliminates my need for charcoal masking!!

My friends who really need that extra hydration, however, don’t do the double cleanse as regularly because they don’t want to remove any extra hydration. Also – hot tip – many cleansing balms double as hydration masks (usually a 5-10 minute application to a clean face does the trick).

Cleansing balms are appropriate for all skin types. Read my guide on how to use cleansing balm.

Cleansing Oils

Cleansing oils are similar to cleansing balms in that they’re oil-based (obvi!), but they aren’t nearly so thick, usually pumping out of a bottle. These too are great at makeup removal and aren’t drying at all (various oils have different consistencies and hydration capabilities).

I will note here that many cleansing oils are thicker and do well with the double cleanse like the balm. The only exception I’ve found to this in natural face washes is this cleansing oil, which emulsifies with just water and washes off cleanly!

Cleansing oils are appropriate for all skin types.

Gel Cleansers

Gel cleansers are a more “typical” cleanser. They’re water-based and feel like a gel coming out of the pump or tube. Gel cleansers are historically recommended for balanced to oily or acne-prone skin. These are used on a wet face and then rinse off completely with water.

Cream Cleansers

Cream cleansers are also water-based and just feel like a cream coming out of the container. Cream cleansers are recommended for sensitive or dry skin as they aren’t as likely to strip the skin of oils while cleansing.

Best Natural Face Wash Options

Crunchi I AM the BALM Review

Crunchi’s I AM the Balm is the first cleansing balm I’ve ever loved using and I may never use another! It’s moisturizing, soothing, and removes makeup wonderfully. I do use this with this gentle facial bar most of the time (except those harshly dry times). And I love this as a quick moisturizing mask! Use code: ADVOCATE15.

Indie Lee Cleansing Balm Review

tips for winter skin care - indie lee cleansing balm

The Indie Lee cleansing balm is a little different. It feel more like a thick gel and while it works just as well at cleaning and makeup removal, I don’t feel it requires a double cleanse, so it’s more of a one-step cleansing balm. It isn’t as hydrating as the balm above, but most of the time that’s fine for me – especially for morning use. Use my Indie Lee discount code: 20LUCI for 20% off your order.

COUNTER Countertime Cleansing Oil Review

Most cleansing oils are thick and I find them frustrating for gentle use and effective cleaning (and makeup removal). The Counter Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil, however, is perfect. It has a thinner consistency and is beautiful to use. It containers bakuchiol (the best natural retinol) but isn’t harsh at all. 10% off your first order (over $100) – no code needed.

Youth to The People Superfoods Cleanser Review

A gentle gel cleanser, the Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser is a great option for all skin types. I first bought it when I was traveling and forgot a face wash. I loved it and when I brought it home, so did my husband! Besides being clean and having just a subtle scent, it comes in a refill pouch (read more about the sustainability of refill pouches).

Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser Review

I use a few cleansers in the morning. I keep this one in the shower and love it. I will tell you that it smells like strawberries. It’s nostalgic for me, but I know not everyone agree. This is a gel cleanser, so it’s good for balanced to oily skin. And I love that it has brightening attributes. See my complete list of skin brightening products. Use my INDIE LEE discount code:
20LUCI for 20% off

Doctor Rogers Face Wash Review

The Doctor Rogers Face Wash is a great one for sensitive skin or skin that’s recovering from irritation or procedures. All ingredients are biodegradable and gentle on skin. pH balanced so it own’t dry out skin at all, maintaining your skin barrier. Ideal for use before serums and moisturizers!

COUNTER Counterglow Silky Skin Cleanser Review

Best Natural Face Wash - COUNTER Silky Cleanser Review

The Counterglow Silky Skin Cleanser is a recent relaunch by COUNTER (formerly Beautycounter). A cream cleanser that foams a bit with water. It includes milled oat flour – a nourishing and mild buffing feature that your skin will love. The cleanser also has a unique form of hyaluronic acid (the ultimate in hydration), even through rinsing. Read my full COUNTER Beauty Review. 10% off your first order (over $100) – no code needed.

HygieneLab Face Wash Review

natural skincare for men - hygienelab review

Here’s one specifically for the guys because the options for natural skin for men are too limited. We recently discovered HygieneLab – the first EWG rated line designed exclusively for men (skincare and hair care). My husband has tried and now repurchased the face wash! It’s gentle yet effective and unscented.

Best Natural Facial Cleansers

So as I mentioned, all of these are candidates for the best natural face wash for you. I use the Crunchi balm, the Counter cleansing oil, and both Indie Lee cleansers regularly. Below are picks for various needs, however.