19 Best Face Washes For Rosacea (2023) 

Finding an effective face wash to support rosacea-prone skin can often be a challenge. If you suffer from rosacea, you’ll know that your skin needs a little more attention than most. Not every product will provide the gentle approach that is needed when looking after your skin. Here, you'll find the very best cleansers that take a gentle approach to looking after your skin, supporting its natural ability to heal. 

1. Blu Atlas Volcanic Ash Face Cleanser
 

Blu Atlas Volcanic Ash Face Cleanser is one of the best cleansers on the market for people suffering from rosacea. This gentle cleanser is formulated with volcanic ash, which is rich in minerals and helps to detoxify and gently exfoliate the skin. Volcanic ash is further known for its ability to absorb excess oil and help reduce the appearance of pores. 

This face cleanser also contains lactobacillus ferment filtrate, which is a probiotic that helps to soothe and protect the skin's microbiome. Restoring the skin's microbiome is a goal of many modern day skin care products, as it has been shown to reduce inflammation. Pomegranate seed oil is included in this formulation to help reduce inflammation and provide antioxidant protection.

Many people find that this face wash is kind to their skin, thanks to its formula being free of artificial fragrances as well as vegan and cruelty-free, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. If you’ve tried other face washes, and have found that they do not support your skin’s natural pH balance, or leave your pores clogged, this is a great option for you.

2. Paula’s Choice Calm Nourishing Cleanser

 
This face wash has quickly become a cult favorite among people with sensitive skin. This cleanser aims to reduce redness, which is often a concern for people who suffer from rosacea. It is designed with ingredients that help cleanse the skin, removing any impurities, while being kind to sensitive skin. It is gentle enough to be used morning and night, and often works best paired with an equally as gentle moisturizer. 

This cleanser has been carefully formulated with moisturizing ingredients such as aloe and chamomilla recutita flower extract, which have long been used by people with rosacea to alleviate their symptoms.These two ingredients are great at reducing inflammation and do not cause dryness, making this face wash an ideal choice for people with rosacea.

3. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
 

Cetaphil is a brand that has long been trusted by people with sensitive skin and skin conditions such as rosacea. This company was founded in 1947, and has since perfected the art of looking after sensitive skin. Their philosophy is ‘less is more.’ Their formulas leave out the harsh ingredients that often irritate the skin. Keeping in line with this, Cetaphil’s face wash is designed to be both hypoallergenic and fragrance free. 

This gentle formula also includes hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and panthenol that offer relief from inflamed skin. These ingredients are specially chosen as they are non-comedogenic, meaning they do not clog pores. This is important for people who suffer from rosacea, as one of the symptoms of rosacea includes inflamed bumps, which can be worsened by blocked pores. This formula is loved by many, as it is gentle enough to be used twice a day, making it one of best face washes for rosacea. If you’re looking for a gentle face cleanser from a known and trusted brand, this is your best bet.        

4. Vanicream Liquid Cleanser 
 

If you’re suffering from rosacea, the Vanicream Liquid Cleanser is a great option that is gentle to your skin. The brand is known for its careful use of ingredients that help support sensitive skin. Their products are commonly used by people who suffer from eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Keeping with their philosophy, this formula is carefully made with the most skin-friendly ingredients. This skin cleanser is free from sulfates, which can dry out skin. It is also free from fragrances, dyes, and parabens, which can cause irritation. This makes Vanicream one of the best face washes for rosacea, and other skin conditions that make skin more sensitive. The formula has been dermatologically tested, and is non comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. Many people enjoy Vanicream Liquid Cleanser day and night, as it is gentle enough to be used twice a day. Additionally, the formula can be used on your hands, face, and body, making it a convenient option for people suffering from rosacea. 

5. BIODERMA Sensibio Foaming Gel Cleanser
 

Bioderma is a successful French skincare company that is well known for tackling problem skin types. Their use of high-grade ingredients have made them a popular choice for many skincare lovers. 

The BIODERMA gel cleanser is no exception. This formula is much loved and is gentle enough to be used twice a day. If you’re suffering from rosacea, it is likely your skin prefers a more simple formula, free of alcohol, fragrance, and parabens. That is exactly what this face wash is, a gentle cleanser that leaves out all the bad stuff. The BIODERMA gel cleanser also makes it onto the best face washes for rosacea as it is oil-free, preventing any flare-ups while keeping pores free. It is therefore ideal for younger people who may suffer from both rosacea and acne. Users claim that this gel cleanser leaves their skin feeling both clean and moisturized, providing relief from rosacea symptoms. 

6. Eco Sonya Super Citrus Cleanser 
 

This award winning cleanser is a great option for those looking for a face wash that has been infused with natural ingredients. This face wash boasts all natural ingredients, with no synthetic or animal-derived ingredients used. The formula is created with aloe vera as its main ingredient, which has long been used for inflamed skin to moisturize. This soothing ingredient is complemented by lemongrass, which has antibacterial properties and can help fight any skin flare-ups.
Many people comment on the beautiful scent, which is all thanks to the use of Australian caviar lime and organic lemongrass oil. These ingredients have been carefully selected to both moisturize and lightly exfoliate skin, making it an ideal option for people suffering from rosacea. If you’re looking for a natural product, from an established brand, this face wash is one of the very best. 

7. Eucerin Redness Relief Cleansing Gel

If you’re looking for a gentle skin cleanser from an established brand, you have likely come across Eucerin, a brand that specializes in formulating gentle skincare products for sensitive skin. This brand, established in 1900, creates dermatologically tested and recommended products for all skin types. 

Their redness relief cleansing gel has been specially formulated for people who experience skin redness, such as those with rosacea. This face wash is made without harsh ingredients such as soap and fragrance, which can cause flare-ups in people with rosacea. Instead, it is created with licochalcone, a root extract, and licorice root extract, both of which have soothing properties. These ingredients are known and loved by people who suffer from rosacea as they have brightening properties along with supporting acne prone skin. This face wash is also great for people who suffer from acne, or clogged pores, as it is non comedogenic. This is all thanks to its oil free formula, meaning you do not need to worry about clogged pores or acne. 

8. Hey Bud Daily Hemp Gel Cleanser
 

 
Hey Bud is a skincare brand that takes a modern approach to looking after your skin. It is no secret that hemp is becoming increasingly popular in skincare products, and for good reason. Hemp is known for its moisturizing properties, and won’t clog your pores. If you’ve tried other products, and are looking to try something new, this face wash may just be your new best friend. 

This cleanser has also been formulated with natural antioxidants, to help protect rosacea prone skin. This face wash is also easy on your conscience since none of the ingredients have been animal tested, and the formula is completely vegan. So if you’re looking for a brand new take on looking after your skin, one that is cruelty free and gentle, give this cleanser a go. 

9. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
 

This best selling face wash earns its spot on the 19 best face washes for rosacea in 2023 all due to its focus on bringing moisture back into dry skin by using the best natural ingredients. Many people who suffer from rosacea also struggle with skin dryness. This gentle face wash is formulated to tackle this issue. 
Kiehl’s utilizes the powerful moisturizing properties of avocado and apricot kernel oil to bring life back into dry skin. Squalene, Kiehl’s signature ingredient, is carefully extracted from olives and provides the best support to the skin barrier, leaving it moisturized and protected. Its formula is also pH balanced and free of synthetic fragrances and dyes, making it the perfect face wash for those with sensitive skin who also suffer from dryness. Users also enjoy the light scent this face wash has, happily using this face wash daily. 

10. Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel

Mario Basecu has quickly become a cult favorite in the skincare community, particularly for people with troubled skin. The skincare company was founded in 1967, and has become popular for its use of science based formulas using natural botanicals.

This cleanser gently cleans skin and removes impurities, leaving skin feeling fresh and clean while having the added benefit of light exfoliation. Physical exfoliants, those that use small particles for example, are often too harsh for people with rosacea. Instead, this formula uses enzyme extracts from papaya to gently remove extra skin buildup, revealing softer, brighter skin. A great trick when using this face wash, is letting it sit on the skin for 30 seconds, allowing the enzymes to get to work. 

Additionally, this face wash can also be doubled as a face mask, for full exfoliating effects, and can be left on the skin for up to 5 minutes. It is good to note that unlike harsher face washes, this one is sulfate free, meaning it will not dry out sensitive skin. However, this face wash is non-foaming, which many users appreciate. So if you're looking for a new face wash, one that has the added benefit of being exfoliating, this one may be your best bet. 

11. Replenix Green Tea Gentle Soothing Cleanser
 

This face wash has been carefully formulated for sensitive skin that is prone to the damaging effects of free radicals. Its formula boasts high numbers of antioxidants- ranging from vitamins and coenzymes. Green tea extract has also been chosen for its soothing properties, which work particularly well for irritated skin. Green tea has been shown to have antiinflammatory properties along with moisturizing the skin and protecting it from oxidizing agents. 

These ingredients have specially been chosen for skin that is prone to damage, such as those who have rosacea. This cleanser has carefully been formulated with sensitive skin in mind, and the soap free formula is gentle enough to be used daily. If you’re someone who is exposed to high levels of UV or environmental pollutants, then this cleanser is a great way to effectively utilize antioxidants and prevent further damage to the skin. 

12. Avene Antirougeurs Clean Soothing Cleansing Lotion
 

This face wash is perfect for people suffering from rosacea who are trying to reduce redness on their skin. This nourishing product is specifically designed for people tackling redness, by using ingredients such as TRP-Regulin and Hesperidin Methyl Cholcone. These expert ingredients are chosen to reduce the appearance of redness and inflammation and thought to improve the skin’s natural barrier function and hydration. 

This effectively helps reduce redness and inflammation, improving the skin's natural appearance. Their signature ingredient, Avene thermal spring water, has also been shown to soothe upset skin, making it ideal for people with rosacea. This formula is also great for people with sensitive skin, who find their skin does not tolerate harsher ingredients. Additionally, the formula is free from soap, fragrance, and parabens. It is also especially signed to be both hypoallergenic and non comedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores or upset allergic-prone skin. 

13. Augustinus Bader The Cream Cleansing Gel
 

Augustinus Bader is a luxury skincare brand, which uses cutting-edge technology to enhance skincare.Their brand is known for creating high-quality products which work together with the skin to provide the best results. 

This luxurious vegan formula is perfect for those looking for a cream cleanser that is gentle but leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed. This formula is designed to cleanse and tighten pores, using natural ingredients. Refreshing ingredients such as rose flower water have specifically been chosen to purify the skin, without stripping it of its natural oils. Paired with hydrating ingredients, such as cucumber extract and aloe leaf, this is one of the best face washes for rosacea as it gently cleanses, while bringing moisture back into the skin. Aloe leaf is a common ingredient in leading skincare products as it has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from further damage. If you're looking for a new formula, which has been clinically tested, the Augustinus Bader formula is a great choice. 

14. Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser
 

Dermalogica is a well established and trusted skincare brand specializing in high-grade skincare for all skin types. This face wash leaves out all the harsh ingredients that often upset sensitive skin. The formula is free of artificial fragrances and colors. The pH balanced formula is instead enriched with calming ingredients such as oat kernel extract, cucumber extract, and lavender extract. These ingredients are carefully chosen to achieve a gentle cleanse, which soothes red skin. 

This delicate formula targets dryness, dullness, and uneven skin texture, leaving the skin looking and feeling great. People with sensitive skin rave about this formula, claiming it not only eases their skin but is also easy to use and wipe off. This face wash is a great option if you’re looking for one that is rich in natural soothing ingredients from a leading skin care company. 

15. Lush Ultrabland Facial Cleanser
 

As promised, this face wash is ultra bland, in all the right ways. This cleanser is a unique formula, designed specifically for sensitive and dry skin. The beautiful honeycomb scent is all thanks to the use of natural honey, which gently moisturizes the skin. This formula is designed to be protective, ensuring that the skin’s natural oils are not stripped away. The use of beeswax and glycerin ensure that the skin’s natural moisture barrier is strengthened. Rose water is another key ingredient found in this cleanser, and acts to calm and soothe inflamed skin. 

The formula is unique as it can be used without water, making it an ideal option for those who frequently travel. It is applied as a balm, and can be removed using a damp face cloth, or cotton pads. If you have dry, inflamed skin that does not tolerate synthetic ingredients, this Lush cleanser is a great option. You can also feel great supporting a company that actively supports animal charities and sustainability projects. 

16. Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser
 

The Glow Recipe Avocado Moisture Barrier Cleanser is one of the best face washes available for rosacea. Glow Recipe has carefully chosen ingredients that tackle skin redness, including ceramides and colloidal oatmeal. It cares for sensitive skin by using nourishing and moisturizing products such as avocado oil, which brings the skin’s natural glow to the forefront. Furthermore, it uses groundbreaking technology to support the skin’s own microbiome. 

It is infused with pre and post biotics which allow the skin to regenerate its own natural barrier. Glow Recipe additionally has left out all the harsh ingredients from their formula; this cleanser is free from parabens, drying alcohols, and synthetic fragrances. It is a great option for those looking for a vegan formula that supports skin in protecting itself, while adding moisture and soothing irritation. 

17. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

 
This cleanser utilizes some of the most innovative technology in skincare to support your skin’s natural defenses. The formula has been tested by dermatologists and is suitable for people who suffer from allergies, blocked pores, and overall sensitive skin. This hydrating face cleanser includes ingredients such as antioxidants, ceramides, and niacinamide which are known for their soothing and moisturizing properties, restoring the skin's natural balance. 

This cleanser stands apart from the rest, as it also contains ingredients that support the skin's own microbiome. The formula includes prebiotics, which allows the skin to restore its own immunity. Made without harsh chemicals such as soap, sulfates, and fragrances, this cleanser is designed especially for people with sensitive skin. This face wash is a great option if you’re looking for a pH balanced cleanser that restores the skin to its natural state. 

18. FARMACY Clean Bee Ultra-Gentle Facial Cleanser
 

This cleanser truly feels as good as it looks. This gentle face wash is soothing enough to be used every day, and will leave your skin feeling clean and fresh. The formula is designed to remove impurities from the skin, while keeping it moisturized. It utilizes hyaluronic acid, which traps moisture in the skin without clogging pores. The ingredients that support skin's moisture include a botanical blend of chamomile, root extracts, and aloe vera. Chamomile is known for its soothing properties and provides anti-inflammatory support to people with rosacea. It also helps support the skin's own healing properties, and will aid in bringing hydration back to the skin.The amazing scent and color is all thanks to honey, not any synthetic colors or fragrances. Farmacy has also left out the harsh chemicals which can cause rosacea flare-ups such as parabens, alcohol, and sulfates. 
Additionally, the company is a partner of Feeding America, providing hunger relief to those in need. So you, and your conscience, will feel great using this product. 

19. Tammy Fender Cleansing Milk
 

Tammy Fender specializes in holistic, vegan skincare for problem skin. This luxurious formula has a creamy feel and is designed to leave your skin feeling soft and radiant. This face wash utilizes lavender, which is used to target inflammation, leaving the skin feeling calm. Other ingredients, such as chamomile, provide antioxidant protection to damage prone skin, while ingredients such as Fo-Ti gently exfoliate skin to leave it clear and smooth. Additionally, people with rosacea benefit from calendula, an ingredient found in this cleanser that helps with skin healing, and reducing the appearance of redness and scarring caused by the skin condition. 
This formula is free from animal products and harsh metals such as sulfates and parabens, making it an ideal option for those with sensitive skin.

Frequently asked questions 

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes redness in the face. It is common in people over the age of 30 and can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as a burning sensation on the skin. It is likely that this condition is caused by both genetics and environmental factors. Although genetics cannot be influenced, people with rosacea can often find relief from their symptoms by using gentle products that reduce inflammation. 

What ingredients should people with rosacea avoid?

People with rosacea typically find that their skin condition has triggers, with some products causing flare-ups, and others soothing their skin. It is important to recognize which ingredients may be contributing to irritation and which are calming. Typically, harsh ingredients that aggravate skin include alcohols, fragrances, and harsh exfoliants. 

These ingredients can be problematic for people with rosacea as they are common sources of irritation and can cause further burning and stinging. Choosing a face wash that is free of these chemicals is often the best option for people struggling with rosacea. Better alternatives include natural moisturizing ingredients that help protect the skin's natural barrier.  

Should people with rosacea use face washes with exfoliants? 

People with rosacea often find that their skin is more sensitive than other skin types, and need to use gentle products accordingly. Physical exfoliants, such as scrubs, can be too harsh for people with rosacea and should generally be avoided. However, gentle exfoliants such as certain enzymes can be useful to carefully remove dry skin. These cleansers are free from harsh exfoliants, and many utilize gentle exfoliating formulas that leave the skin feeling smooth.  

What ingredients are soothing for skin prone to rosacea? 

There are a number of ingredients that soothe rosacea prone skin.These typically involve ingredients with moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. One of these ingredients includes green tea extract, which has been used for decades to reduce inflammation and redness. Green tea extract also contains antioxidants which helps to protect damage prone skin. 

Additionally, aloe vera leaf helps to moisturize and soothe inflamed skin. This is a very common ingredient used in skincare and often provides relief to people suffering from rosacea. Cucumber extract is also used, as it has a cooling effect on the skin. This is ideal for people suffering from rosacea as their skin is often inflamed, the cooling effect effectively provides relief while reducing inflammation and redness in the skin.