How to Choose the Right Cleanser

Written By Amy M. Koberling

Am I the only one who thinks cleansers get overlooked? I feel like serums, retinol, and moisturizers (all which I LOVE) get all the affection, but cleansers are left forgotten. The irony is, if you’re not cleansing properly, the rest of your skincare routine won’t perform the way it should. 

A good cleanser does more than just remove spf/debris/makeup; it preps your skin for the active ingredients that follow, helps maintain a healthy skin barrier, and can target specific concerns (like acne, dehydration, or sensitivity). On the flip side, the wrong cleanser can throw your skin completely out of balance—leading to dryness, breakouts, irritation, or an impaired skin barrier. So let’s give cleansers some of the love they deserve! Here is a guide on how to choose a cleanser and why you need to find the right one for you!

double cleansing

I’m going to specifically talk about second cleansers, but I can’t do a cleanser blog without discussing a double cleanse—because if you wear SPF and/or makeup daily (which you should be!), double cleansing is an actual must.

Let’s briefly discuss it, the goal is to use an oil-based cleanser first to break down makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil, followed by a water-based cleanser to actually get in there. In my experience, this is the only way to completely cleanse your skin!

Types of First Cleansers

  • Cleansing Oils – I, personally, love these especially if you have oily based skin! Thanks to emulsifiers, they rinse off clean without leaving a greasy residue.

  • Cleansing Balms – A solid-to-oil formula that melts into the skin, making it an ideal option for dry or sensitive skin. Many balms are packed with nourishing ingredients like ceramides and squalane to replenish hydration while cleansing.

  • Micellar Water – This has become a favorite of mine recently! It’s budget-friendly and effective. I also love this option if I am working out in the evening, so it’s easy to get everything off pre-workout.

  • Use Your Cleanser Twice –  Maybe my favorite double cleansing hack! Don’t want to bother getting a balm or oil, no problem. Literally just cleanse twice with your “second cleanser.”

Alright now that we covered that, let’s get into picking the best cleanser for your skin type!

Choosing the Right Second Cleanser for Your Skin Type

For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin

  • What You Need: A gel or foaming cleanser that controls oil without over-stripping.

  • Look for Ingredients: AHAs/BHAs(exfoliates inside pores) and niacinamide (reduces oil production).

  • My Pick: DR. DENNIS GROSS  Alpha Beta AHA/BHA Daily Cleansing Gel 


    For Dry & Acne-Prone Skin

  • What You Need: A hydrating gel or gentle exfoliating cleanser to unclog pores without irritation.

  • Look for Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide (targets acne bacteria), glycerin (boosts hydration), or polyhydroxy acids (gentle exfoliation).

  • My Pick: NATURIUM Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser 5%


For Normal to Oily Skin

  • What You Need: A lightweight gel cleanser that balances oil without causing dryness.

  • Look for Ingredients: AHAs/BHAs(controls oil) or zinc PCA (regulates sebum).

  • My Pick: BUBBLE | Fresh Start Gel Cleanser 


Normal to Dry Skin

  • What You Need: A gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that hydrates while cleansing, supporting the skin barrier without leaving it tight or dry.

  • Look for Ingredients: Glycerin (hydrates and maintains moisture), ceramides + fatty acids (restore skin barrier), green tea extract (soothes and protects with antioxidants).


For Normal Skin


For Dry & Sensitive Skin



My Current Holy Grail Cleanser

SKINFIX | Barrier+ Ceramide + Ectoin Hydrating Gentle Gel Cleanser

This has been the one I am constantly reaching for! It’s great for dry or sensitive skin types.


Alright, I hope this gives you a little insight into how to choose a cleanser for you, as well as some of my favorites for every skin type! Cleansers do NOT need to be expensive to be effective, but it should be an intentional decision on which one you pick and why! Let me know if you have questions!


Make sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok & My Newsletter for skin tips, beauty advice & more! Looking for more? Check out my in depth Skincare Guide here where you’ll learn exactly how to create a full skincare routine from scratch!


**Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and may contain products gifted in PR. This means that I may earn a small commission when you purchase via these links at no additional cost to you (thank you! It helps me keep things up and running)… As always I ONLY recommend products, goods and services that I stand behind and personally love and use

xx Amy

Amy M. Koberling
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