Our Top Picks
Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Wash stands out as the top pick for its exceptional performance with 3 essential ceramides in cleansing and hydrating.
Best Hydrating Cleanser: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser, Water Gel, impresses as a lightweight, dermatologist-recommended formula, effectively removing impurities while boosting skin hydration.
Best Cream Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash excels with its creamy texture and MVE Technology, ensuring all-day hydration and restoring the skin's natural barrier.
Best Budget Option: Minimalist 5% Aquaporin Booster Cleanser impresses as a cost-effective choice without compromising on quality, providing effective cleansing for dry skin.
It's common to prioritise moisturisers for combating dryness. However, the significance of a suitable face wash in your skincare routine cannot be overstated. While moisturisers focus on post-cleansing hydration, face washes actively contribute to the cleanliness and balance of your skin. When grappling with dry skin, the choice of cleanser plays a pivotal role in achieving a vibrant and even complexion.
But, It's crucial to recognize that not all cleansers are created equal, and selecting the right one tailored to your skin type can make a substantial difference. For individuals with dry skin, this choice becomes even more critical.
By incorporating a hydrating face wash into your daily skincare regimen, you create a solid foundation for addressing dry skin concerns, paving the way for a healthy and glowing complexion.
Key ingredients that help with dry skin
Hyaluronic Acid: This powerhouse ingredient is a hydrating marvel, capable of holding a significant amount of water.
Glycerin: An excellent humectant, glycerin attracts water to the skin, preventing dehydration and promoting a smooth, moisturised feel.
Ceramides: These are natural lipids that make up a significant part of the skin's structure. Ceramides help to reinforce the skin's barrier, preventing moisture loss and enhancing overall hydration.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Known for its soothing properties, niacinamide helps improve the skin's barrier function, reducing water loss and alleviating dryness. It also has anti-inflammatory effects.
Shea Butter: Extracted from the shea tree nuts, shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins. It provides deep hydration, nourishing the skin and helping to restore its natural elasticity.
Jojoba Oil: This oil closely resembles the skin's natural sebum, making it an effective moisturiser. It helps to balance oil production, providing hydration without clogging pores.
Aloe Vera: Renowned for its soothing properties, aloe vera is a hydrating ingredient that helps calm irritated skin and provides relief from dryness.
Omega Fatty Acids: Found in oils like flaxseed, chia seed, and rosehip, omega fatty acids contribute to skin hydration, support the skin barrier, and have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Things to consider before buying a face wash for dry skin
Hydrating Ingredients: Look for face washes containing moisturising ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. These help replenish and retain moisture, combating dryness.
Fragrance-Free Formulas: Fragrances can be irritating, especially for dry and sensitive skin. Opt for face washes labelled as fragrance-free to minimise the risk of irritation.
Gentle Cleansing: Choose a gentle cleanser that won't strip away natural oils. Avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates, which can be drying, and opt for mild, hydrating formulas.
pH-Balanced: A pH-balanced face wash helps maintain the skin's natural acidity, promoting a healthy skin barrier. This is crucial for preventing further moisture loss.
Non-Comedogenic: Ensure the face wash is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. This is essential for preventing breakouts while keeping the skin adequately moisturised.
Creamy or Milky Consistency: Opt for a face wash with a creamy or milky consistency. These formulations are often more hydrating than gel-based cleansers, providing extra nourishment for dry skin.
Dermatologist recommended: Consider products that are dermatologist-tested or recommended. This ensures that the face wash has undergone testing for safety and efficacy.
How we chose them for you when curating the list
Gentle Cleansing: Gentle cleansers were prioritised over harsh alternatives to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils. This approach is vital for preventing additional dryness and maintaining skin comfort.
Special additives: Products with additional beneficial ingredients, such as aloe vera, chamomile, or antioxidants, were considered. These extras can enhance the overall nourishing and soothing effects on dry skin.
Brand Reputation: Established brands known for their commitment to skincare excellence and quality were taken into account. We considered brands with a positive reputation for producing effective and reliable products.
Customer Reviews: Positive reviews from individuals with dry skin reinforced the effectiveness of the products in providing hydration and alleviating dryness
Here's a list of best face washes for dry Skin
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Wash is a skincare essential for normal to dry, sensitive skin. This fragrance-free cleanser, rich in ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide, gently removes impurities, maintains the skin's moisture barrier, and leaves you with clean, comfortable, and hydrated skin. Dermatologist-recommended, it's an ideal solution for a soothing and nourishing cleansing experience.
Specifications:
Price: 2,945 (MRP 4,499 35% Off)
Brand: La Roche-Posay
Skin Type: Sensitive
Scent: Unscented
Material Feature: Fragrance-Free
Material Type Free: Fragrance-Free, Soap-Free, Sulfate-Free
Volume: 400 millilitres
Special Ingredients: Glycerin, Ceramide-3, Niacinamide, La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water
| Pros | Cons |
| Mattifying and gentle formula | Foaming nature may be drying |
| Lathers quickly and is gentle on skin | |
| Does not cause any irritation or breakouts | |
| Doesn’t has strong smell |
User’s Testimonial: "The texture is creamy and luxurious, gliding onto the skin effortlessly. It effectively removes impurities, makeup, and excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. I appreciate that it's suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and it doesn't cause any irritation or redness!."
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its gentle, hydrating formula tailored for sensitive skin. Backed by an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 25,000 satisfied users on Amazon.
Innisfree's Green Tea Foam Cleanser, enriched with Jeju Green Tea extract, offers a refreshing and hydrating experience for both men and women with dull and dry skin. This creamy, gentle face wash effectively removes dirt and impurities, leaving your skin clean, soft, and supple. The natural ingredients, including amino acid complex and calamus root extract, work together to provide a moisturizing and soothing effect. Perfect for sensitive skin, it's a paraben-free, dermatologist-recommended solution for achieving a nourished and refreshed complexion.
Specifications:
- Price: 720 (
MRP 80010% Off) - Type: Foam Cleanser
- Skin Type: All
- Brand: Innisfree
- Scent: Green Tea
- Size: 150 ml
- Special Feature: Natural Ingredients
- Key Ingredients: Jeju Green Tea, Amino Acid Complex, Calamus Root Extract
| Pros | Cons |
| Hydrating for dry skin | Not sulfate-free |
| Natural green tea fragrance | |
| Refreshing and gentle cleansing | |
| Dermatologist-recommended | |
| Makes your skin smooth and glowing |
User’s Testimonial: "The scent of green tea is so refreshing. It cleanses deep inside the skin and its moisturising effect is powerful. So, after washing my face with it, my face gets clearer and brighter!."
Why it's worth buying: It is a dermatologist-recommended Amazon Choice product, offering refreshing cleansing with natural ingredients, making it ideal for sensitive skin and a trustworthy purchase.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a dermatologist-recommended favourite that offers a non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic solution for dry, normal, and sensitive skin. Infused with Micellar Technology, it effectively removes impurities, leaving your skin hydrated and protected. Packed with Niacinamide, Vitamin B5, and Glycerin, it reinforces the skin's natural moisture barrier, defending against dryness, irritation, and a weakened skin barrier. This fragrance-free and paraben-free face wash ensures a gentle, soothing cleanse for a refreshed and nourished complexion.
Specifications:
- Price: 883 (
MRP 9305% Off) - Form: Liquid
- Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry, Normal
- Brand: Cetaphil
- Scent: Unscented
- Material Features: Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Dermatologist Tested, Non-Comedogenic
- Material Type: Soap-Free, Sulphate-Free, Paraben-Free
- Age Range: 18 and above
- Volume: 500.0 millilitres
- Special Features: Hypoallergenic, Unscented
- Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Niacinamide
| Pros | Cons |
| Nourishes and cleanses dry skin | Some users prefer more lather |
| Continuous hydration post-cleansing | |
| Includes beneficial ingredients like Niacinamide | |
| Leaves the skin smooth and clear after wash | |
| Micellar Technology provides effective cleansing |
User’s Testimonial: "My face doesn't trust any other face wash as much as it trusts Cetaphil. Single cleanse, double cleanse, apply it on a wet face before shaving, apply it on a wet face and sleep in it— anything works with it and you'll face no issues. It's simple, gentle and super effective– my sensitive skin loves it"
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying as it is the best-selling cleanser on Amazon, with over 18,000 positive ratings, attesting to its widespread popularity
Forest Essentials Delicate Facial Cleanser with Mashobra Honey, Lemon & Rosewater is a natural gel-based face wash. Enriched with honey, rose, and Kerala lime, it purifies the skin, adds a natural glow, and leaves it soft and supple. Experience the benefits of a hydrating, moisturising, and gentle cleanser with the goodness of nature. Free from parabens, it's one of the best facial cleanser for a refreshing and uplifting skincare routine.
Specifications:
- Price: 1,550
- Type: Gel-based facial cleanser
- Skin Type: Normal
- Brand: Forest Essentials
- Scent: Honey, Lemon
- Material Features: Natural, Paraben-Free
- Net Quantity: 200.0 ml
- Special Features: Rose, Honey, Kerala Lime
| Pros | Cons |
| Purifies and adds natural glow | Overpowering rose scent |
| Makes skin soft and supple | |
| Maintains natural moisture balance. | |
| Clears clogged pores and hydrates the skin |
User’s Testimonial: "The face cleanser is beautifully rose scented. Just a little bit is enough to wash the face well. My skin felt alive and supple after use. After sampling I will certainly purchase a bigger quantity.."
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its natural, hydrating formula enriched with honey and lemon, earning a commendable 4.4-star rating on Amazon, reflecting high user satisfaction.
CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash is a must-have for your daily skincare routine, especially if you have normal to dry skin. This fragrance-free cleanser, enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, gently removes dirt, makeup, and oil while preserving your skin's natural barrier. Experience all-day hydration with MVE Technology, ensuring a non-comedogenic and non-irritating cleanse. Developed with dermatologists and accepted by the National Eczema Association, it's the perfect choice for maintaining a healthy and moisturised complexion.
Specifications:
- Price: 1,932 (
MRP 2,89933% Off) - Type: Oil-based Gel Cleanser
- Skin Type: Ideal for Dry Skin
- Brand: CeraVe
- Scent: Fragrance-Free
- Size: 8 Fluid Ounces (237 ml)
- Special Features: Hydrating Formula
- Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid
| Pros | Cons |
| Hydrates and cleanses dry skin | Lather is not good |
| Gentle removal of dirt and makeup | |
| MVE Technology ensures all-day hydration | |
| Contains essential ceramides for skin barrier |
User’s Testimonial: "I have literally dried out my skin with other foam cleansers. When I used it for the first time, it was honestly odd as it doesn't foam up. Though at first it wouldn't actually clean. Turns out that it cleans very reasonably and adequately. After use, my skin is no longer as tight as usual. I really recommend it for people with dehydrated or dry skin."
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its gentle yet effective cleansing with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. With a stellar 75% 5-star rating on Amazon, users rave about its efficacy for dry skin.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser is a refreshing dermatologist-tested water gel for all skin types that leaves your skin smooth, supple, and well-hydrated. Its innovative Hyaluronic Gel Matrix locks in and releases hydration throughout the day, improving your skin's moisture barrier. This hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formula effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup, ensuring a clean and refreshed face.
Specifications:
- Price: 649 (MRP 1,000 35% Off)
- Form: Gel
- Skin Type: All
- Brand: Neutrogena
- Scent: Aquatic
- Material Features: Natural, Alcohol-Free
- Age Range: Adult
- Net Quantity: 200.0 ml
- Special Features: Hypoallergenic, Natural Ingredients
| Pros | Cons |
| Refreshing water gel formula | Contains added fragrance. |
| Locks in and releases hydration | May cause irritation in rare cases |
| Removes dirt, oil, and makeup effectively | |
| Innovative Hyaluronic Gel Matrix | |
| Lightweight and smells clean |
User’s Testimonial: "My wife wasn’t using any cleanser because everything she tried before left her skin even drier after. When her my sister came to visit us, bought this for herself and we tried it. It is so good. Doesn’t dry her skin, cleans very well the make up.."
Why it's worth buying: Its innovative formula ensures a clean, refreshed, and well-hydrated complexion.
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser is a customer favourite, providing a gentle and thorough cleanse for all skin types. This unscented gel-based face wash effectively removes makeup and impurities without over-drying, thanks to ingredients like Apricot Kernel Oil and Avocado Oil. pH-balanced and dermatologist-tested, it maintains the skin's natural balance, leaving it hydrated, soft, and refreshed. A trusted choice for cleansing that dissolves excess oil, dirt, and debris.
Specifications:
- Price: 1,679 (
MRP 2,49933% Off) - Type: Gel
- Skin Type: All
- Brand: Kiehl's
- Scent: Unscented
- Volume: 150 ml
- Key Ingredients: Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil, Squalane
- Benefits: Thorough cleansing, pH-balanced, safety tested
| Pros | Cons |
| Maintains skin's natural balance | Higher price point |
| Rich in moisturising ingredients | |
| Tested for safety and gentleness | |
| Doesn't dry out like most cleansers | |
| Gentle, effective makeup removal |
User’s Testimonial: "First off you have to know how to use this stuff. you just need a nickel size amount, rub all over dry skin, let it sit just a bit (it’s like a mask) then use a nice exfoliating scrubber to lather the skin and then rinse. your skin will be so happy. not drying but feels very clean!."
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its gentle, effective cleansing with a high satisfaction rate, evidenced by a remarkable 78% 5-star rating on Amazon.
Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser, designed for sensitive and dry skin, is a dermatologist-recommended gel face wash. The refreshing milky gel effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin cleansed, hydrated, and smooth. Formulated with nourishing oat and calming feverfew, it helps soothe and strengthen the skin's moisture barrier. This hypoallergenic, fragrance-free cleanser is perfect for daily use, providing gentle care without clogging pores. Trust Aveeno for a gentle, non-comedogenic solution that leaves your skin feeling healthy and revitalised.
Specifications:
- Price: 1,967 (
MRP 3,80048% Off) - Type: Gel
- Skin Type: Sensitive
- Brand: Aveeno
- Scent: Unscented
- Material Features: Dermatologist Tested
- Material Type Free: Artificial Colour Free
- Age Range: Adult
- Net Quantity: 232.0 ml
- Special Feature: Scen
| Pros | Cons |
| Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free | Contains artificial colouring |
| Strengthens the skin's moisture barrier | May break out combination skin type people |
| Gentle, nourishing formula for sensitive skin | |
| Effectively cleanses, leaving skin refreshed | |
| doesn’t contain citric acid for those allergic to it | |
| No fragrance and very soothing when lathering up |
User’s Testimonial: "I have dry red, sometimes flaky skin. This is super gentle and moisturising. Can’t go wrong with the price either. This is my go to facial cleanser for months now.."
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for effective oil control, hydration, and three essential ceramides. With a stellar 4.3-star rating on Amazon, it's a trusted choice for clear, refreshed skin.
Experience daily hydration with Minimalist's 5% Aquaporin Booster Cleanser. Tailored for dry skin, this unscented gel face wash combines gentle cleansing agents with humectants like Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5, and Glycerin. The Glyceryl Glucoside stimulates Aquaporin Channels, enhancing water transportation for superior hydration. Skin-soothing ingredients like Allantoin and Oat Extract leave your skin soft, calm, and nourished. With this superior formula enjoy a pH-balanced, sulfate-free cleansing routine for a consistently moisturised and refreshed complexion.
Specifications:
- Price: 284 (
MRP 2995% Off) - Form: Gel
- Skin Type: Dry
- Brand: Minimalist
- Scent: Unscented
- Material Type: Sulfate-Free
- Age Range: Adult
- Net Quantity: 100.0 ml
- Special Feature: Unscented
- Special Ingredients: Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid
- pH: Optimum 5.5
| Pros | Cons |
| Enriched with humectants for optimal moisture | May not remove heavy makeup |
| Skin-softening Wheat Protein and soothing Allantoin | Some people may experience side effects like breakout |
| Hydrates and replenishes moisture levels | |
| Makes the skin soft and supple | |
| Mild scent and less lather |
User’s Testimonial: "Does what it says ! I use it every night and am loving the results, it definitely hydrates my dry skin and keeps it soft and fluffy. It doesn't really tighten my pores but I barely have any so no complaints ! Go for it it’s an amazing product"
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for dry skin, this hydrating cleanser, with over 1K recent Amazon purchases, offers superior moisturization and gentle cleansing.
Achieve a radiant glow with The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam. This brightening cleanser, infused with rice extracts, promotes a clear and even complexion. Its whipped cream-like texture, enriched with rice water solution, gently washes away impurities and removes dead skin cells. Take a step closer to glass-like skin with this foaming cleanser suitable for all skin types. With this face wash experience the natural, rejuvenating, and organic goodness of Rice Water Extracts, Soapwort, and Moringa Oil.
Specifications:
- Price: 789 (
MRP 8497% Off) - Type: Foam
- Skin Type: All
- Brand: The Face Shop
- Scent: Musk
- Material Features: Natural, Paraben-Free, Tar Colorant-Free, Polyacrylamide-Free, Animal-Driven Ingredient-Free, Mineral Oil-Free, Talc-Free, Paraffin-Free
- Age Range: Adult
- Net Quantity: 150 count
| Pros | Cons |
| Gently cleanses sensitive, dry skin | Relatively more expensive |
| Retains essential moisture | May have a tingling feel initially |
| Removes makeup and impurities effectively | |
| Restores skin comfort and hydration | |
| Contains soothing prebiotic thermal water |
User’s Testimonial: "Amazing face wash for sensitive skin!!! It's very gentle and doesn't over dry at all. I wouldn't say it prevents acne but it doesn't aggravate the active ones !!!."
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its proven brightening properties and skin-friendly formula, evidenced by a high 4.2-star rating from over 16,000 Amazon users.
Steps to use a face wash for dry skin for optimal results
- Begin by splashing lukewarm water on your face to open up pores.
- Apply a coin-sized amount of face wash to avoid overuse and ensure thorough cleansing.
- Massage the face wash in circular motions, focusing on oil-prone or impurity-prone areas.
- Thoroughly rinse your face with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains.
- Pat your face dry gently using a clean towel, avoiding rubbing to prevent irritation.
- Finish your routine with toner, moisturiser, and sunscreen for optimal skincare benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )
Should I avoid foaming cleansers for dry skin?
- Foaming cleansers can strip natural oils; opt for creamy or gel-based cleansers that provide moisture while cleansing.
How often should I moisturise after using a face wash?
- Moisturise immediately after cleansing and consider using a hydrating moisturiser to lock in moisture.
Can face washes with natural ingredients benefit dry skin?
- Yes, face washes with natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or oatmeal can soothe and nourish dry skin.
Should I avoid alcohol-based face washes for dry skin?
- Yes, alcohol can be drying; opt for alcohol-free face washes to avoid further dehydration.
How long does it take to see results with a new face wash?
- Results vary, but with consistent use, you may notice improved hydration and skin texture within a few weeks.
Wrapping up
Choosing from our curated list ensures access to premium, dermatologist-recommended products that cater to diverse skincare needs, providing optimal hydration, gentle cleansing, and nourishment.
Enhance your skincare routine with confidence, and experience the transformative benefits of these carefully selected face washes.
Disclaimer: The above content is non-editorial and produced by a third party partner. Outlook India does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of the content*.
*The product prices mentioned in the article are subject to change
