Jenna Holtz
12 min
3.4K
Almost every guy has made the mistake of washing his face with a bar of soap. Guys, if you’re still taking a bar of soap to your face or simply not washing it at all, keep reading.
Bar soap will dry out your skin and make wrinkles even worse. According to the Journal of Dermatology, dry skin leads to fine wrinkles and deep furrows on your face. And, no good-looking guy like yourself wants that.
The good news is:
There are things you can do to keep this from happening. By simply switching to one of these best face wash for men (shocking, we know), your skin will feel and look better. This will keep keep your face feeling smooth and sexy and slow down the wrinkle process.
Have we told you the best part?
We did the research and picked the very best men's face wash specifically for your skin type, so you don’t have to. We spent hours lathering up, reading reviews from guys just like yourself, and comparing prices to give you the most accurate list possible.
Don't forget to grab one of these best moisturizers, best acne products, and best anti-aging creams, too.
Now, on to our list.
WHY TRUST US: Faveable spends thousands of hours researching, interviewing experts & testing products, to create carefully selected lists trusted by millions of consumers since 2013. Our independently chosen links earn us a commission. Learn more »
Have trusted our product reviews
A simple and affordable purifying face wash for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Inflamed or very dry skin may need a little extra hydration after using this.
A gel-like texture with a gentle lather and floral-like smell.
Salicylic acid clears pores while glycerin protects moisture. A mostly sensitive-friendly list, however, it contains fragrance which may irritate.
Super budget-friendly at well under $10.
A mild and non-irritating face wash formulated by dermatologists. Comes with an inexpensive price tag.
This face wash contains parabens and sulfates. And, it doesn't lather.
The slimy texture bothered some, but most guys didn't seem to mind. Also, this face wash is fragrance-free, making it gentle enough for any skin type.
The beauty behind this sensitive face wash is that it's soap-free, making it extra gentle. However, the ingredients in this face wash aren't the best. But, that's typically the case with a less expensive product. Even though it's soap-free, this product does contain parabens and sulfates.
The good news is, reviewers often stated that this face wash will last a few months depending on how often and how much you use. The Cetaphil face wash comes in three different sizes, which means three different prices for your choosing. However, before you go and order the smallest size, know that you'll be paying slightly more per ounce.
An affordable fash wash for guys with dry skin who want that clean feeling without stripping crucial moisture
Those with oily skin may find it a little too gentle, but it could be paired with an oily skin toner
A cream-gel formula with a moderate lather and a very mild, slightly fresh scent.
Glycerin attracts moisture to the skin, preventing dryness. Palmitic acid preserves moisture while clearing away bacteria and dirt.
An under $10 wonder.
A deep-cleansing face wash that won’t dry out the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and clear
The addition of fragrance may be a little irritating to some, but most people love the freshness
A lathering gel texture that smells fresh and slightly masculine, like a clean cologne.
Glycerin and aloe vera hydrate and soothe the skin to prevent the dreaded post-wash tight skin. It contains parabens, which may put some off due to the irritating nature.
At only a few bucks, if it were cheaper it’d be free.
An all-natural healing moisturizer that softens and repairs skin. Perfect for any skin type.
Slight fragrance from rosemary extract. Some like it, some don't.
This face wash has a creamy texture that turns into a foam when lathered. The product is fragrance-free but the rosemary extract does give it a slight smell. Some reviewers loved it, others didn't.
Guys, you will be happy to hear that this face wash is made up of 100% certified organic ingredients. The main ingredient, coconut oil, thoroughly cleans while moisturizing at the same time. Other ingredients include olive oil, sunflower oil, aloe vera juice, shea butter, and rosemary oil and extract. You wont find any chemicals, parabens, dyes, sulfates, or fragrances in this face wash. Also, this product isn't tested on animals and that feels pretty good too. Did we mention that each bottle is made with biodegradable labels and recycled plastic bottles? We told you this brand was pretty awesome.
The $22 price tag reflects the 4 ounce bottle. What could possibly make this product worth the price? The all natural ingredients that improve skin appearance are well worth the investment. Plus, it only takes a little bit to cover your face. What do we mean by this? The Christina Moss face wash is highly concentrated. So this 4 ounce bottle is really equivalent to an 8 ounce bottle of other face washes on the market. As a bonus, the airless pump gives you the perfect dime-sized amount.
Charcoal-infused for a serious clean; terrific price; and a little truly goes a long way.
The packaging leaves a little to be desired; it can flake and peel in the shower.
Charcoal really allows for a deep clean without the grittiness that comes with other exfoliating products.
It lathers easily and you really don't need a lot of it to get an awesome clean. Plus, it rinses off easily.
And, we have to mention that this smells great. It's not a strong scent, but there's a definite masculine smell to this... and it's more than pleasant.
Let's start with the obvious - the activated charcoal in this face wash for men. It's the business for clearing up acne and getting rid of all that excess oil - and it does it without drying your skin out.
You won't find any sulfates or parabens here, but you will find peppermint leaf and moringa seed extracts. Score.
The price would be right if you used this at the same rate as other men's face washes, but you can expect a tube to last at least twice as long (without sacrificing any cleaning ability). We call that value for money and a half.
The ingredients in this wash will do wonders to fight off acne, offering superior breakout control and antioxidants to fight off skin damage. It’s gentle and soothing, yet potent enough to clear up any white or blackheads.
May irritate very dry and sensitive skin
The texture is on par with most gel face washes, light but not too liquid, without the oiliness of a cream. There is little to no smell, and it’s made without artificial fragrances.
This anti-acne face wash is that it's made in the USA with non-GMO, natural, and organic ingredients only. The ingredients include jojoba oil, aloe vera, and chamomile extract, and it’s free of parabens, gluten, and artificial chemicals. The fact that it’s all natural does mean it may not be 100% effective 100% of the time. Some users complain that it’s just “meh”, meaning it may or may not deliver results.
At $13 for a 1.6-ounce tube, you’re paying slightly above average price. However, you’ll get away with using less (a pea-sized dollop) per application, so the face wash will last longer.
An all-natural face wash with tea tree oil to kill acne-causing bacteria.
Could be slightly too “squeaky clean” for very dry skin, but perfect for combo-to-oily skin
We love that Desert Essence contains no artificial fragrances, and is naturally scented with tea tree oil.
Castile soap and tea tree oil kill acne-causing bacteria while glycerin softens and moisturizes the skin. Zero nasty ingredients such as SLS and mineral oil. Bladderwrack eases irritated and inflamed skin.
At under $10 for 8.5 ounces, it’s a certified steal.
An oil-free, deep-cleaning face wash that exfoliates, clears pores, and prevents future acne.
Those with dry skin may find it a little drying. However, you can apply it to trouble areas such as the T-Zone and avoid dryer areas.
A lathering gel with a menthol-fresh fragrance most guys will love.
Salicylic acid and charcoal take the lead by cleansing and exfoliating. It does contain fragrance, which isn’t an issue for most people but could be irritating to sensitive skin.
Impressively, this powerful product is under $10.
An all-natural exfoliating scrub that removes dead skin, clears pores, and preps skin for shaving.
If you love a lather, this may disappoint, but the cleansing power is excellent
A light, fresh peppermint scent and slightly gritty texture with no lathering effect.
All-natural ingredients such as argan, coconut, sweet almond, and sunflower seed oils hydrate, soothe, and prevent signs of aging. Tapioca starch adds “grit” for a gentle exfoliant (no harmful microbeads).
A super budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality.
A super-hydrating cleanser for sensitive and dry skin, (approved by the National Eczema Association)
Super oily guys may find this too gentle, but it could be paired with an acne-prone toner
The non-foaming and fragrance-free formula further protect the skin’s moisture barrier.
Glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid draw moisture to the skin, resulting in hydrated, plump skin.
You can grab a giant bottle (19 oz) for under $20. For the quality, this is excellent.
A natural, cruelty-free face wash that fights signs of aging, preserves moisture, and removes impurities all in one.
It’s so good your partner or roommate will steal it
Mildly scented with a fresh, citrus-like fragrance (thanks to natural grapefruit oil). A gel-like texture with a mild lather.
Vitamin C and green tea provide antioxidants for younger, brighter skin, while aloe leaf extract and coconut water soothe and hydrate. Free from irritating sulfates, parabens, fragrances, and mineral oils.
At just under $20 for 6.7 oz, it fits most budgets.
A soothing, hydrating face wash for guys with inflamed or dry skin
Acne-prone skin may need a little extra help, but this is great for soothing angry breakouts
A creamy texture with a moderate lather and a mild citrus smell.
Glycerin, jojoba, chamomile, argan, peony, and calendula extracts restore hydration and calm inflamed skin. Free from most of the common nasties.
One of the most affordable high-quality cleansers on the market.
A gentle cream cleanser that leaves sensitive skin feeling clean, soothed, hydrated, and young
Acne-prone guys may find it too gentle on very oily skin
The creamy texture further hydrates the skin while the fragrance-free formula protects irritated skin (and noses).
Niacinamide soothes inflamed irritated skin while glycerin and ceramides attract and trap moisture for ultimate hydration.
At just under $15 for 13.5 ounces, it’s budget-friendly.
A dual-purpose liquid cleanser and toner that removes deep-down dirt and oil for clear, smooth, shave-ready skin.
The consistency of this face wash is thin. So, if you're one of those guys who squeezes the tube with a full grip, this may not be ideal for you (or at least won't last you very long).
The Jack Black face wash has a thin consistency making it super lightweight. Although there are no artifical fragrances added, there is a light herbal scent to this wash. The good news is, guys love it!
To all of you eco-concious dudes out there, you'll be happy to know that all of the ingredients found in this wash are certified organic and vegan-friendly. The oat and coconut surfactants cleanse the skin down to its deepest level, while the certified organic sage leaf extract and rosemary provide antibacterial benefits. The added Witch Hazel acts as an astringent which will help in tightening pores and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. What you won't find are any parabens, colorants, or artificial fragrance.
This face wash comes in three different sizes, which means three different prices for your choosing. The 3-ounce bottle is $12.50, the 6-ounce bottle is $19, and the 16-ounce bottle is $35. However, before you go and order the smallest size, know that you're paying $4 an ounce versus $2 an ounce for the big bottle.
And, if you love this brand as much as we do, the line also has a daily facial moisturizer, intense therapy lip balm, and industrial strength hand healer.
It is specially developed with natural ingredients and can be used in the morning or at night, without affecting your skin moisture. Also, it's all natural and vegan-friendly.
Difficult to rinse the exfoliating beads out of beards.
This is one of the best men's face washes around, which is why we chose it as our best overall. The consistency has the perfect amount of foaming action mixed with a grit-like texture that helps with exfoliating. In fact, the thing men loved the most about this product is the exfoliating beads. Yes, you will find small beads mixed into this cleanser. But no matter how strange that might sound, your skin will be left with a smooth and polished appearance that we promise you'll love.
The Rugged and Dapper face wash wouldn't be so rugged if it had an overly powering fragrance now would it? Instead, this product has a mild manly smell that most dudes can hardly detect.
All of the ingredients found in this face wash are 100% natural and organic. Active ingredients include Aloe Vera, Vitamin C, Willow Bark, and Burdock Root. Another ingredient found on the list is Tea Tree Oil. You won't find any parabens, harmful chemicals, or toxins. Also, Rugged and Dapper's products are not tested on animals, and that feels good too, doesn’t it?
At $25 per bottle, it's a reasonably priced face wash. If for some reason you don't like it, you have nothing to lose. Rugged and Dapper offers a 100% satisfaction and effectiveness guarantee. So if you've been searching for the right face wash for your skin - consider your journey over.
Prevents dryness, leaves skin clean, natural and organic ingredients, great for men with oily skin, good for any age, renewing and cleansing, antiseptic properties, free of sulfates and gluten, plus no synthetic fragrances.
Not suitable for sensitive skin, and the cap is a bit tough to open.
The gel is much lighter than a cream face wash, and it won't leave an oily film on your face. It's light, has a beautiful smell of mint/eucalyptus and lemongrass, and does an amazing job of cleansing your face. If you hate viscous creams and face washes, the gel texture of this wash will be just what you want. The fragrance is very subtle, but there is a hint of menthol and eucalyptus freshness on your skin long after you rinse the gel off.
The list of ingredients includes coconut oil, geranium oil, aloe vera, mint, and eucalyptus. The product is 72% organic and 97.5% natural, with no gluten, sulfates, parabens, glycols, PEGs, phthalates, petrochemicals, or synthetic fragrances. It's fully vegan, hasn't been tested on animals, and uses 100% certified organic ingredients (hence 72% organic).
At $25, this is slightly on the pricier side of the face washes on our list, but definitely a great product if you want a light product with natural/organic ingredients.
A face wash is the foundation upon which your skin care routine is built. If you apply lotions, creams, or serums to dirty skin, it traps the dirt and grime close to your skin. This increases the risk of acne and other skin problems.
Washing your face—even with good ol' soap and water—eliminates all germs, dirt, and dead skin cells, leaving your skin a blank canvas ready for the application of grooming products. If you want your skin care routine to have maximum effect, you must wash your face first!
The answer: everyone!
We all need to get rid of dirt, germs, and dead skin cells in order to have healthy skin. However, the type of face wash you use will depend on your skin type.
Men with Sensitive Skin – Sensitive skin is prone to acne, rashes, and irritation. You have to choose face washes that are hypoallergenic and intended specifically for sensitive skin. Aloe leaf extract, chamomile extract, and olive oil are among the best ingredients for sensitive skin, as they are soothing and protective. Be careful not to scrub too vigorously!
Men with Oily Skin – Oily skin is skin that produces an excess amount of sebum (skin oil). However, remember that your skin is producing the oil according to what it feels is necessary to protect itself. Getting rid of all the oil on your skin will just INCREASE oil production further. Coconut-based cleansers will help to get rid of germs and dirt without eliminating all the oils.
Men with Dry Skin – Dry skin produces far less oil and thus is more prone to damage from wind, sunlight, and environmental toxins. You want to steer clear of anything that is excessively drying, but use aloe, Vitamin E, almond oil, and olive oil-based face washes to clean your face. A bit of oil in the face wash and cleanser will help to protect your skin and reduce dryness.
Men with Combination Skin – This is when things get a bit challenging! Combination skin means your skin is oily in some spots (usually the T-zone) and dry in others (usually your cheeks and around your eyes and mouth). Our recommendation: use a face wash for sensitive skin, but wash your T-zone once or twice more throughout the day.
Men with Aging Skin – Aging skin will begin to show wrinkles, smile lines, sagging, and other signs of aging. You need a face wash that is rejuvenating and hydrating, including antioxidants and collagen producing ingredients like Vitamin C and proteins. Thankfully, there are anti-aging face washes that you can use (with an anti-aging serum) to stop your skin from aging too quickly.
ALWAYS read the list of ingredients in your daily facial cleanser/face wash products. It's vital that you understand which chemicals and natural ingredients are included in the cleansers.
Here are a few of the most highly-recommended ingredients to look for:
Many facial cleansers (especially cheaper options) will use chemicals for cleansing because they are inexpensive, potent, and highly effective. However, some chemicals can be dangerous and speed up the degradation of your skin. Read the list of ingredients on your face wash to make sure it doesn't contain any of the following:
If you see any of these ingredients in your face wash, get rid of it!
This may sound silly, but do you know how to wash your face properly? And by that we don't mean splashing water over your face and drying off with a towel. No, we mean actually using a face wash to give your face a thorough cleansing.
Here are the steps of a proper face wash:
Step 1: Take a shower. Yes, that's right, your face wash should happen after the shower. The heat and steam will help to open up your pores, maximizing the effectiveness of the wash.
(Note: If you want to wash your face but don't have time to shower, use water that is lukewarm, not hot. Applying hot water directly to your face can make it more sensitive, thus more prone to irritation.)
Step 2: Apply face wash. Pour a nickel-sized dollop of face wash into your hands and apply it to your face. Use gentle circular motions to rub it into your skin. Be careful not to rub too vigorously—excessive scrubbing can damage your skin, which could lead to excessive oil production. Be gentle with your skin and let the facial cleanser do the work.
Step 3: Rinse with cool water. Now that you've cleansed your pores, you want to close them so more dirt and germs can't get in. Cool water (not cold) will help to shut your pores. Give your face a gentle rinse to eliminate all traces of the face wash.
Step 4: Pat your skin dry. Rubbing your skin (like most of us guys do) can stretch it out, leading to premature wrinkles. Rubbing also creates friction, which can cause excessive oil production or irritation for men with sensitive skin. Pat your skin dry gently with a clean towel.
Step 5: Let the skin care continue. Follow up your face wash with a good moisturizing lotion, anti-aging serum, or wrinkle cream. You've cleansed your face—now it's time to hydrate, nourish, and protect it!
After a good face wash, your skin should feel fresh and clean, but not scrubbed clean or stretched tight. If the skin feels tight, it's a sign it's too dry. Over-dry skin is more prone to irritation, rashes, and acne, not to mention excessive sebum production.
NEVER, EVER wash your face using hand soap. The ingredients in a bar of regular soap are intended to kill germs on your hands, but the skin on your hands is far more resistant to damage than your sensitive face skin. The chemicals of bar soap—natural, organic, or generic—are too strong for your face.
What is the best time of day for you to wash your face? Should you cleanse in the morning, after work, or just before going to bed?
Morning – You've been sleeping on a pillow no doubt covered in dead skin cells, dried oils, and other dirt and germs. You need to give your face a thorough cleansing.
If you take a shower in the morning, use it as an opportunity to wash your face. Even if you don't shower, make sure to wash your face thoroughly before heading off to the office. Morning cleansing will refresh your skin and eliminate impurities and dead skin cells. Plus, after your face is clean, you can apply a lotion or cream to protect your skin all day long.
Evening – Before going to bed, you want to give your face a gentle wash—but don't finish by applying more lotions and creams. The last thing you want is for your skin to be covered in a layer of oil overnight. The oil will just increase the amount of dead skin cells and grime clinging to your skin from your pillow.
For your nightly wash, you don't need a facial cleanser—warm water will do the trick just fine. After your wash, apply an anti-aging serum (something light and non-comedogenic) to hydrate and refresh your skin overnight.
Once you're done with your face wash, try these tips to keep the skin of your face healthy and fresh:
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Fitness has come hard for Andy; he's had to work for it. But, his trials have led him to becoming a martial artist, a NFPT-certified fitness trainer, and a man passionate about exercise and healthy living. That’s why he’s our resident fitness expert.
His favorite food is lettuce-leaf steak tacos – though he’ll admit to a love of hot wings if you leverage the right pressure.
We know him as the guy who understands British humor and wishes everyone was as passionate about life as he is. His previous forays into the worlds of international business and education have left him wildly optimistic. And, if that wasn’t enough, he's also a best-selling, award-winning author of fantasy novels! Can you say renaissance?
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17 Best Face Wash Cleansers for Men
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