Highly-Rated Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser that Is as Gentle as They Are Effective

The cream cleanser removes makeup, impurities, and other pollutants from the skin. It's pH balanced, so it won't irritate sensitive skin.

Cream Cleanser

If your skin is dry, sensitive, or feels tight in the morning, it is time to switch to a cream-based cleanser. They're gentler on your skin and will provide a healthier glow all day long.

It's a gentle cleanser that is more hydrating than other types of face wash like foams and gels. It has a thicker, rich lather than other soaps.  Cream cleanser cleans without altering pH levels and its moisturizing properties won’t strip your skin's protective barrier.

For people with sensitive, reactive, and acne-prone skin, or occasional rosacea-flaring eczema, a cream cleanser is your best option. Using just any cleansers recommended for your skin type can lead to irritation and dryness.

Cream cleansers tend to be softer and gentler than other cleansers so they’re good to protect your skin barriers. Particularly, winter weather is a big concern, which is why you need to switch from a harsh exfoliant to a calming, gentle cream cleanser.

There are plenty of products that claim to remove excess sebum and impurities but don't moisturize or soothe them. Keep your skin looking healthy and soft with a product like the cream cleansers here!

We independently research, review and recommend what we think are the best products that meet your needs. If you buy a product through one of our retail links, we may earn a small affiliate commission.

For all skin types, the glycolic-rich formula is infused with alpha hydroxyl acids and potent antioxidants, including vitamin E to remove surface oil and lift away dead skin cells to reveal a fresh, smooth complexion. It contains 5% glycolic acid and is pH balanced to work well with all skin types. The result: It leaves your skin soft with a clean glow.

Mad Hippie Cream Cleanser comes to the rescue of dry, dull, and blemished skin by combining all-natural ingredients to provide a gentle yet effective cleanse. Its moisturizing and soothing properties work effectively to hydrate the skin. It is an all-natural cleanser that you can use on your face and body. This lightweight cleanser infused with jojoba oil and additional antioxidants like green tea extract leaves you with an easy, milky texture that's perfect even as a makeup remover.

The La Roche-Posay cleanser with niacinamide and ceramides for sensitive skin is a gentle and effective face wash for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Infused with niacinamide and ceramides, this cleanser restores the skin with moisture, calming redness and protecting it from irritation.

CeraVe acne foam face wash is just as gentle as it is an effective acne cleanser. CeraVe is a facial foam cleanser that does not lather and contains only 0.5% benzoyl peroxide to keep the pH balance of your skin firmly in check, and natural oils to moisturize and soothe as you cleanse.

Acure cleanser is an affordable cleanser with soothing properties. Formulated with organic oils, extracts, and natural moisturizers, the ACURE cleanser is designed to calm and hydrate your skin without stripping away moisture or causing irritation. Ideal for dry or sensitive skin types, this cream cleanses more effectively than soaps and provides broad-spectrum protection against free radical damage.

How to Choose a Cream Cleanser

When choosing a cream cleanser, scan the ingredient lists with the following in mind:

  • You should steer clear of harsh detergent sulfates or surfactants like sodium cocoyl isethionate
  • Silicones only provide a temporary film that can block pores, and trap debris, when layered with other products.
  • Mineral oil can be a tricky substance to contend with. It coats our skin properly and prevents other products from penetrating the skin. Though some people believe this is because mineral oil inhibits the growth of bacteria, it can hurt your complexion in terms of worsening acne and aggravating inflammation.
  • Look for things like glycerin, which will leave your skin moisturized but doesn't weigh it down, and lightweight things like lotion that are great for adding moisture without clogging your pores.
  • One of the main issues with PUFA fatty acid profile (PUFA) oil is that they tend to oxidize quickly, generating free radicals that can age your skin. Plus, certain oils may contain PUFA-based ingredients which are sometimes used in skincare because they are moisturizing and help protect against damage.

Cream Cleanser FAQs

What is a cream cleanser?

A clean cream cleanser is a lot thinner and has a light, watery texture while including plant-based ingredients to help your skin retain moisture. Sometimes called cleansing “milk” or “lotions” cream cleansers are gentle - they cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils and reveal glowing, refreshed skin that is soft and visibly smooth.

Are cream cleansers better for the skin?

If you have dry or sensitive skin you're going to want to try a cream cleaner. They tend to be gentler on the skin and are much more hydrating, making them a great option. The cream cleanser is gentle on all skin, but particularly suitable for those with a delicate skin type or who suffer from any form of chronic inflammation.

What skin type is cream cleanser best for?

Cream cleansers are a great choice for sensitive or mature skin. Or, if you have dry skin, look for creamy cleanses that are specifically designed for it. It might not work for some oily skin types and teenage skin.

Is a cream cleanser a face wash?

A cream cleanser leaves your skin feeling soft. Perfect for people with sensitive dry skin, it will help you get rid of any dirt, sweat, makeup, or bacteria that may accumulate on your face. Cream cleansers are typically dense, and creamy and contain essential moisturizing components like plant oils.

Can a cream cleanser cause acne?

Cleansers can cause skin problems if you don't pick the right product for your specific needs. However, if you use a cleanser with the best ingredients for your type of skin, it could prevent irritations and breakouts from happening in the first place.

Can cream cleansers clog pores?

Many people have fallen in love with the popularity of cleansing oil and cleansing balms due to the luxurious feel they give to the skin. The problem is that these cleansers left oil residue on your face, which means you might clog your pores.

Why use a creamy cleanser?

Cream Cleanser is rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and restorative ingredients. They provide deep cleaning results. It's not just for your face - it will leave you feeling refreshed from head to toe! A creamy cleanser will leave your skin feeling refreshed, hydrated, and clean. It is effective for even the most compromised skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema.

What is the difference between a cream cleanser and a facial cleanser?

A cream cleanser will not leave soap residue and leaves skin feeling silky and smooth. Gentle cream cleansers usually contain emulsifiers and natural oils to effectively lock moisture in, while eliminating impurities and preventing skin inflammation.

What are the 3 types of face wash?

Face washes typically fall into three main categories: gel-, foam-, and cream-based. The gel-based washes are typically gentler and they’re great for use on the face as well as hands, without any drying effects. Gel formulas can be used for multiple skin types, especially combination skin or oily skin. They're great at clearing off excess sebum.


No skincare routine is complete without an effective cleanser.  If your skin feels sensitive, tight, dry, or irritated, it's time to swap in a cream cleanser. Cream cleansers can be soothing. They're basically like cleansing lotions. Foaming cream cleansers imply a higher level of moisturizer as compared to traditional liquid or foam cleansers.

7fcbf9b6-9f0d-48a9-a587-b43ccdb82a1e