Skincare can get expensive fast - between cleansers, moisturisers, serums, toners and face masks, the costs add up. But a good face cleanser doesn’t need to break the bank. It’s one of the most important steps in any routine, and if you know what to look for, you can save money without sacrificing quality.
There are so many options on the market, making it hard to differentiate and know what the best option is for your specific skincare needs. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you want to avoid products that contain fragrance because it can be irritating. And, if you have dry skin, you want extra-hydrating products.
It’s also important that you know your skin type - whether it’s dry, oily, combination or sensitive, as well as if you have any specific concerns such as acne because these factors will help determine what sort of ingredients you want in your cleanser.
No matter whether you have dry, oily, sensitive or acne prone skin, these are our top cleanser picks for under $25 so you can get a quality product without spending a fortune.
Top pick
If you have relatively normal skin and want a fuss-free cleanser that will thoroughly cleanse without irritation, Cetaphil’s Gentle Cleanser is a good choice. It is fragrance-free, non-stripping and ideal for sensitive skin, with soothing ingredients like niacinamide, panthenol and glycerin to keep skin calm and hydrated. It’s also one of the best value for money options we’ve seen, costing less than $16.
Also worth considering
Best for acne prone skin
This K-beauty staple is great for those with breakout-prone skin. With 0.5% salicylic acid, it helps clear clogged pores and reduce pimples and bumps. It also includes calming ingredients like tea tree oil and willow bark water, plus a skin-friendly pH of 5.3 that allows it to cleanse effectively without drying or stripping the skin.
Best for dry skin
Formulated for dry or sensitive skin, this gentle cleanser removes dirt, makeup and oil while helping to maintain the skin’s protective barrier. It contains hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides to hydrate as it cleanses. With an average of 4.6 stars from over 16,000 reviews on Amazon, it’s a fan favourite for a reason.
Best for oily skin
This oil-free formula is designed specifically for oily skin, working to cleanse thoroughly without throwing your moisture barrier out of balance. It features niacinamide to calm the skin, plus hyaluronic acid to help retail hydration without causing a tight or squeaky-clean feeling.
Best oil cleanser
While an oil cleanser isn’t essential, many skincare enthusiasts swear by the double cleansing method. This involves starting with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup, sunscreen and excess oil, followed by a second cleanse using a water-based formula with active ingredients to treat the skin.
If you’re looking to add one to your routine, this affordable option is a great place to start:
Palmer’s is best known for its nourishing cocoa butter-based products and this cleansing oil is no exception. It gently dissolves dirt, oil and makeup without stripping the skin, making it a hydrating addition to your routine. It is also only $20 which is one of the cheapest options we’ve seen on the market.
FAQs
Do budget cleansers perform as well as high-end ones?
Yes, you can definitely find cheaper alternatives to high end cleansers that offer similar results. The most important thing to look for in a cleanser is the ingredients, such as hydrators like hyaluronic acid alongside gentle surfactants and chemical exfoliants like salicylic or lactic acid. In many cases, the biggest differences between budget and premium options comes down to packaging, branding and added luxury (but often entirely optional) touches. When it comes to performance, a well formulated option can work just as well as a more expensive product.
What’s my skin type?
Knowing what sort of skin you have is an important step when choosing a cleanser. The common types are dry, oily, combination, sensitive or normal and if you’re not sure, you can do some research to find out which applies to your skin. Gel or foam cleansers are best suited for oily and acne prone skin, while more creamy or lotion based formulas suit dry and sensitive skin types. Combination skin often benefits from gentle formulas, as they can balance oil without stripping the drier areas.
Should I be double cleansing with an oil cleanser?
Double cleansing isn’t essential, but many people find it makes a noticeable difference. The process involves first using an oil cleanser, cleansing balm or makeup remover to break down sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum and then going in with a second cleanser (like the ones we’ve covered in this article) to clean the skin more thoroughly. If your skin still feels congested after one cleanse, or you wear SPF or heavy makeup, it may be worth incorporating double cleansing into your routine.
Want to discover more budget beauty products? We have a guide on the best budget foundations and best affordable makeup removers.
