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Defense Blends Carbon Power Detox Face Wash is our pick for best men’s face wash products, with Nivea Men Maximum Hydration Face Wash, and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser coming in close behind. Read on for the full list, plus tips for choosing the best men’s face wash products for you.
A quick look at the best men’s face wash products
- Best detoxifying cleanser for men: Defense Blends Carbon Power Detox Face Wash I Skip to review
- Best natural cleanser for oily skin: Brickell Men’s Products Clarifying Gel Face Wash I Skip to review
- Best urban environment cleanser: L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Extreme Cleanser I Skip to review
- Best all-in-one cleanser for men: Rugged and Dapper Daily Power Scrub Facial Cleanser I Skip to review
- Best daily cleanser: American Crew Men’s Face Wash I Skip to review
- Best hydrating cleanser for dry skin: Nivea Men Maximum Hydration Face Wash I Skip to review
- Best gentle cleanser for sensitive skin: Dove Men Care Hydrate+ Face Wash I Skip to review
- Best natural cleanser for everyday use: Every Man Jack Daily Face Cleanser I Skip to review
- Best cleanser for skin barrier protection: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser I Skip to review
- Best exfoliating cleanser: Harry’s Exfoliating Face Wash I Skip to review
If you are looking for the best men’s face wash to suit your skincare needs, look no further. This comprehensive guide delves into the Top 10 best men’s face wash products on the market, with detailed reviews to ensure you pick the perfect product for your skin. We cover popular brands such as Brickell Men’s Products, L’Oreal Men Expert, and Dove Men, along with well-known options like Nivea Men and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Discover how American Crew stands out, offering unique benefits tailored for different skin types. From battling acne to enhancing moisture retention, determine which best men’s face wash cleanses effectively and boosts your skin health. Whether it is your first time using a face wash or refining your routine, our expert insights will help you navigate the abundance of options available. Make an informed decision with our targeted reviews, ensuring that your face feels refreshed and revitalized every day.
Men care about their face
In recent years, men have shown increased interest in skincare, particularly in selecting quality face wash products. The global men’s skincare market was valued at $16 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.40% through 2033. This shift reflects a broader acceptance and enthusiasm for grooming routines emphasizing health and appearance, highlighting a dynamic change in traditional masculinity and beauty care perceptions.
Our judging criteria
These criteria were established to highlight the unique benefits and features of each of the Top 10 best men’s face wash products:
● Ingredient Quality: The quality of ingredients is crucial because it determines how gentle the face wash will be on the skin.
● Moisturizing Properties: The best men’s face wash should help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier and prevent dryness after washing.
● Cleansing Effectiveness: The primary function of any face wash is to cleanse efficiently, removing dirt, oil, and impurities from the pores while leaving the skin fresh and clean.
● Fragrance and Additives: Fragrance and other additives can have adverse reactions on sensitive skin, so it is essential to identify products free from harsh chemicals and unnecessary additives.
● Cost-Effectiveness: Good value is determined by size, ingredient quality, and effectiveness in addressing issues like oiliness, dryness, and sensitivity.
Let’s examine the best men’s face wash brands. Keep reading to find out which one we think is the best overall.
HealthXWire's picks of the best men’s face wash products
Best detoxifying cleanser for men
4.8 (50+) From Defense Blends
- Special Ingredients: Activated charcoal, tea tree oil, and poly-hydroxy acid
- Sourcing: Clean ingredients, USA Small Batch Crafted, Fragrance Free
- Targeted Benefits: Designed to deeply cleanse and detox without drying out skin
- Cost: Moderately priced ($$)
- Customer Rating: 4.8 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.9 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: This best men’s face wash utilizes clean ingredients like activated charcoal, tea tree oil, and poly-hydroxy acid, known for their detoxifying and exfoliating properties.
- Moisturizing Properties: This best men’s face wash contains hydrating ingredients that help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier without stripping it, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: Activated charcoal deeply cleanses the pores, helping to reduce the appearance of blackheads, prevent acne breakouts, and leave the skin feeling revitalized.
- Fragrance and Additives: This best men’s face wash is fragrance-free and has a light, natural tea tree scent.
- Cost-Effectiveness: At $17.90 for an 8-oz. bottle, this best men’s face wash offers good value for its specialized formulation. The product also comes with a 60-day “empty jar” guarantee.
Defense Blends Carbon Power Detox Face Wash stands out for its powerful detoxifying properties and is suited for men seeking a deep, thorough clean. Founder Aaron Lieberman states, “This is skincare for men made by men, exclusively formulated for our skin! Small batch crafted in the USA using the highest quality organic, natural, and naturally derived ingredients.”
- Utilizes high-quality, clean ingredients for effective detoxifying and cleansing.
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, due to its gentle formulation.
- Competitive pricing with a satisfaction guarantee, offering good value for money.
- Utilizes high-quality, clean ingredients for effective detoxifying and cleansing.
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, due to its gentle formulation.
- Competitive pricing with a satisfaction guarantee, offering good value for money.
Best natural cleanser for oily skin
4.6 (3.3K+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Aloe vera, geranium, coconut-based cleansers
- Sourcing: Natural & Certified Organic ingredients, made in USA, not tested on animals
- Targeted Benefits: Formulated to remove oil and impurities without drying
- Cost: Higher price range ($$$)
- Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: This best men’s face wash contains all-natural ingredients like coconut-based cleansers, aloe vera, and geranium for gentle yet effective cleansing, ensuring the skin is free from oil and impurities without over-drying.
- Moisturizing Properties: Ingredients like aloe vera provide a light moisturizing effect, helping balance the skin's natural oils and preventing overproduction that often accompanies dry skin.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: Due to its coconut-based cleansers, this best men’s face wash can remove excess oil and impurities while maintaining the skin's natural barriers.
- Fragrance and Additives: This product is scented with a refreshing blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass essential oils, providing a pleasant sensory experience.
- Cost-Effectiveness: This product is $25 for an 8-oz size or $15 for a 3.4-oz size, offering good value for its natural ingredient profile for managing oily skin.
Brickell Men’s Products Clarifying Gel Face Wash is a natural cleanser for men with oily or combination skin types. The Brickell Men’s Products website states, “These ingredients, along with other powerful natural ingredients, have been scientifically formulated to create the best face wash for men with oily skin.”
- Effective at controlling oil and shine without causing dryness.
- Utilizes high-quality, natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin.
- It is vegan and free of nuts and gluten, making it appealing to those with allergy concerns.
- This face wash is scented and unsuitable for those who prefer fragrance-free skincare products.
- The price point may concern users accustomed to less expensive cleansers.
Best urban environment cleanser
4.6 (4.1K+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Charcoal, salicylic acid, glycerin
- Sourcing: Made in a responsible manufacturing plant
- Targeted Benefits: Designed to fight the five problems caused by daily city grime including oily skin, shininess, dirt, sticky touch, dullness and clogged pores
- Cost: Budget-friendly ($)
- Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: L’Oreal Men Expert's face wash contains charcoal, which has purifying properties, and salicylic acid, which unclogs pores and prevents breakouts, to deal with the rigors of urban living—dirt, oil, and pollution.
- Moisturizing Properties: This best men’s face wash incorporates glycerin to help retain the skin's natural moisture and prevent dryness.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: This cleanser removes impurities and excess oil, leveraging charcoal's ability to absorb toxins and debris from the skin.
- Fragrance and Additives: The product features a manly fragrance that enhances the cleansing experience with a refreshing sensation.
- Cost-Effectiveness: At $6.99 for a 5 oz bottle, L'Oreal Men Expert's face wash is accessible and economical for budget-conscious consumers.
L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Extreme Cleanser face wash is ideal for city dwellers looking for a robust face wash that tackles the environmental stresses of city living. According to the brand, “Men Expert Hydra Energetic Extreme Cleanser fights the five problems caused by daily city grime: oily skin, dirt, stickiness, dullness, and clogged pores.”
- Excellent for combating the effects of urban pollution.
- Contains effective ingredients like charcoal and salicylic acid.
- Hydrates and does not strip the skin of moisture.
- The product is scented, which may not be suitable for those who prefer fragrance-free skincare. "Product has too much perfume."
- Its potent formula might be too harsh for users with sensitive or dry skin. "After starting to use this product I experienced almost constant acne."
Best all-in-one cleanser for men
4.4 (4.6K+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Organic aloe vera, jojoba oil, vitamin E, botanical extracts
- Sourcing: Small batch USA crafted, cruelty-free
- Targeted Benefits: Formulated to help clear and reduce the appearance of pores and fight the signs of aging
- Cost: Higher price range ($$$)
- Customer Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.1 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: This best men’s face wash is crafted with natural ingredients like organic aloe vera, jojoba oil, vitamin E, and various botanical extracts, making it suitable for various skin types.
- Moisturizing Properties: Natural oils and aloe vera help ensure the skin remains hydrated and does not feel stripped of moisture after washing.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: This product cleanses the skin by removing dirt, excess oil, and grime. It doubles as an exfoliator, which helps reduce the appearance of pores.
- Fragrance and Additives: Infused with natural extracts and oils for an invigorating scent without overpowering chemical additives.
- Cost-Effectiveness: At $29 for an 8-oz bottle, this best men’s face wash offers good value, considering its multifunctional use and ingredient quality.
Rugged and Dapper Daily Power Scrub Facial Cleanser is for men seeking a robust skincare solution that simplifies their grooming routine while delivering exceptional results. According to Rugged and Dapper Founders Ryan and Janine Labaqui, “Our multi-tasking formulas get the job done all at once, saving you precious time to live your life without being a slave to your bathroom.”
- Multifunctional as a cleanser, toner, and exfoliator.
- Formulated with high-quality natural ingredients.
- Suitable for all skin types and effective in managing oily zones.
- The price may be high for men who prefer an inexpensive option.
- Several Amazon reviews mention a strong odor. "Works great but smells awful."
Best daily cleanser
4.5 (470+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Vitamins, antioxidants, moisturizing agents
- Sourcing: Oil-free formula suitable for all skin types
- Targeted Benefits: Designed to clear up any build up for healthier and smoother skin
- Cost: Budget-friendly ($)
- Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: This best men’s face wash includes vitamins, antioxidants, and moisturizing agents that effectively clean without over-drying the skin.
- Moisturizing Properties: American Crew's face wash formula is balanced to keep the skin hydrated, which is essential for maintaining its natural barrier.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: This product removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities from the skin. It is optimized for men’s skin, often requiring more robust cleansing due to larger pores and increased oil production.
- Fragrance and Additives: This best men’s face wash features a masculine fragrance that is refreshing and invigorating yet not overpowering.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Given its brand reputation and the quality of its ingredients, American Crew offers good value for its $6.99 price for a 6.4-oz bottle.
American Crew Men’s Face Wash is designed for men seeking a daily facial cleanser that offers thorough cleansing without compromising skin moisture levels. The brand states, “American Crew's ongoing commitment is to elevate men's style and enhance their personal image.”
- Effective cleansing is suitable for daily use.
- Maintains skin hydration with a balanced formula.
- Features a pleasant masculine scent appealing to men who appreciate a clean and fresh scent.
- This product is no longer on the company’s website and is only available through Amazon, indicating it could be discontinued.
- Some users may prefer a fragrance-free option, which is not offered by this product.
Best hydrating cleanser for dry skin
4.6 (10K+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Aloe vera, Provitamin B5
- Sourcing:Dermatologist-tested formula
- Targeted Benefits: Formulated to deeply clean while helping to prevent dry, tight skin
- Cost: Budget-friendly ($)
- Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.1 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: This best men’s face wash includes high-quality ingredients such as aloe vera and Provitamin B5, known for their soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Moisturizing Properties: Nivea Men's face wash ensures that the skin remains hydrated and does not feel tight after washing by including hydrating agents that help to preserve the skin's natural moisture.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: This face wash removes dirt and oil without stripping the skin of natural oils, making it an excellent choice for dry skin.
- Fragrance and Additives: This best men’s face wash features a light, fresh scent that enhances the cleansing experience without being overpowering.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Nivea Men Maximum Hydration Face Wash is priced at $6.24 for a 5 oz bottle, considering its specialized formulation for dry skin and the inclusion of premium ingredients.
Nivea Men Maximum Hydration Face Wash is a solid choice for men with dry skin needing extra moisture and care in their skincare routine. According to the website, “You can feel good about using this deep cleansing face wash since it protects skin from drying out and doesn't leave skin feeling tight or dry after use.”
- Excellent hydration for dry skin types.
- Contains soothing aloe vera and Provitamin B5.
- Available at all major retailers, including Target, Walmart, and Amazon.
- May not be suitable for those looking for a fragrance-free product.
- Those with oily skin might find it too moisturizing. "It does make my skin more oily throughout the day."
Best gentle cleanser for sensitive skin
4.6 (5.2K+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Glycerin, sodium laureth sulfate, lipids
- Sourcing: Dermatologist Tested, Cruelty-free and vegan
- Targeted Benefits: Designed to help cleanse men’s skin and replenish lost moisture
- Cost: Budget-friendly ($)
- Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: Dove Men Care Hydrate+ Face Wash contains a combination of cleansers and moisturizing agents, such as glycerin, sodium laureth sulfate, and natural lipids.
- Moisturizing Properties: This best men’s face wash includes ingredients that mimic the lipids found naturally in the skin, helping to lock in moisture and prevent the dryness often caused by regular face washes.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: Dove Men's face wash removes dirt, oil, and bacteria without stripping the skin of its natural moisture, making it particularly effective for dry-skinned men.
- Fragrance and Additives: The product contains a mild fragrance.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Priced at $4.99 for a 5 oz bottle, Dove Men Care Hydrate+ Face Wash provides quality skincare benefits at an affordable price point.
Dove Men Care Hydrate+ Face Wash is recommended for gentle cleansing and moisturizing. It is a standout choice for men with sensitive skin. According to the brand, “We’re taking action to help men and dads care for themselves, each other, and the people they love.”
- Provides excellent hydration, ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
- Gently cleanses without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
- Affordably priced for the quality and benefits offered.
- Those with oilier skin might find it too moisturizing. "More of a moisturizer than a wash."
- Some users might prefer a product with all-natural ingredients.
Best natural cleanser for everyday use
4.4 (440+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides
- Sourcing: Made in the USA, clean ingredients, cruelty-free
- Targeted Benefits: Marketed to clean away dirt and oil without getting tight, itchy skin
- Cost: Moderately priced ($$)
- Customer Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: This best men’s face wash is formulated with natural ingredients for hydration, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Ceramides enhance its soothing and acne-fighting properties.
- Moisturizing Properties: This face wash balances the skin's moisture with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: The product can remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the pores while being gentle enough for daily use.
- Fragrance and Additives: This best men’s face wash is fragrance-free and contains no harsh chemicals, making it suitable for men with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Priced at $9.00 for a 5 oz bottle, this cleanser offers excellent value, considering its quality ingredients.
Every Man Jack Daily Face Cleanser is for men who value natural ingredients and require a gentle yet effective daily cleansing solution. The brand states, “We strive to use as many naturally derived and plant-based ingredients as possible while still delivering exceptional performance.”
- Formulated with natural and skin-friendly ingredients.
- Effectively cleanses without drying the skin.
- Fragrance-free for sensitive skin.
- Formulated with natural and skin-friendly ingredients.
- Effectively cleanses without drying the skin.
- Fragrance-free for sensitive skin.
Best cleanser for skin barrier protection
4.7 (100K+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides
- Sourcing: NEA Seal of Acceptance™, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic
- Targeted Benefits: Marketed to cleanse and refresh the skin without over-stripping it or leaving it feeling tight and dry
- Cost: Budget-friendly ($)
- Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser utilizes MVE delivery technology, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, which are known for maintaining the skin's natural moisture and reinforcing its barrier.
- Moisturizing Properties: Hyaluronic acid ensures the skin remains hydrated after washing, preventing the tight, dry feeling often associated with facial cleansers.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: This best men’s face wash removes dirt without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
- Fragrance and Additives: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While Amazon's $11.55 price point for an 8 oz bottle may be higher than some drugstore brands, its dermatologist-approved reputation makes it a worthwhile investment for those concerned with skin health.
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser boasts a gentle, barrier-supporting formula that maintains hydration while effectively cleansing. The brand states, “MVE Delivery Technology encapsulates ceramides to ensure efficient delivery within the skin’s barrier and slow release over time.”
- Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for superior hydration.
- Fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive skin.
- Developed with dermatologists and accepted by the National Eczema Association
- It may not sufficiently address oily skin types.
- Several Amazon reviewers mention that it was ineffective at cleaning their faces. "It didn't clean well enough for my combo skin."
Best exfoliating cleanser
4.7 (2.2K+) FROM AMAZON
- Special Ingredients: Exfoliating agents, eucalyptus, peppermint
- Sourcing: Made in USA
- Targeted Benefits: Designed to remove dirt and oil, and gently exfoliate to leave skin clean and smooth
- Cost: Budget-friendly ($)
- Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
- Our Expert Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
The Review
- Ingredient Quality: This face wash uses exfoliants naturally made from volcanic rock to cleanse and smooth the skin, complemented by refreshing eucalyptus and peppermint.
- Moisturizing Properties: The formulation prevents over-drying, maintaining the skin's natural moisture even after deep cleansing.
- Cleansing Effectiveness: This best men’s face wash can remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, promoting a rejuvenated complexion.
- Fragrance and Additives: This product contains natural scents of eucalyptus and peppermint, offering a cooling and invigorating sensory experience.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Offered at $7 for a 5 oz tube, this face wash is affordable and efficient, making it accessible to a broad audience.
Harry’s Exfoliating Face Wash is suitable for men who value a thorough cleanse that leaves the skin feeling revitalized and ready for the day. According to the brand, “We believe that you shouldn’t have to compromise when it comes to the products you use, so ours are designed to be effective and to provide a great experience.”
- Natural exfoliating agents like volcanic rock enhance cleansing.
- Eucalyptus and peppermint provide a refreshing scent and feel.
- Competitively priced within the market for its benefits.
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin due to the exfoliating particles.
- Regular use might require complementing with a moisturizer for those with dry skin areas.
Best overall of the Top 10: Defense Blends Carbon Power Detox Face Wash
Defense Blends Carbon Power Detox Face Wash emerges as the overall best men’s face wash due to its superior formulation. It combines activated charcoal, poly-hydroxy acid (PHA), and natural tea tree oil to offer a comprehensive skincare solution. Activated charcoal deeply cleanses and detoxifies by absorbing oil and impurities, while PHA provides gentle exfoliation and can improve skin texture, tone, and hydration. Natural tea tree oil fights bacteria and may reduce inflammation for a clearer complexion. Together, these ingredients detoxify, rejuvenate, and maintain healthy, clear skin, making this face wash a top choice for its efficacy and innovative use of natural components.
Moreover, their empty jar guarantee is only one way the company exemplifies top-notch customer service. Lieberman asserts, “Handsome skin, done right. People before profit. As a small family-owned company, we have your back whether you love our products or want to make a return. Making sure you have a solid experience as a customer means everything to us.” Ultimately, Defense Blends’ powerhouse trio of clean ingredients and its commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience makes this product our top pick for the best men’s face wash on the market today.
Further reading:
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology: Addressing Male Facial Skin Concerns: Clinical Efficacy of a Topical Skincare Treatment Product for Men
American Academy of Dermatology Association: Face Washing 101
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Facial Cleanliness
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Manufacturers And Distributors: We hope that you enjoyed this article and found it informative. If your company, brand, or product was featured in this article and you believe that our assessment or evaluation was not fully accurate, or if your company, brand, or product was not mentioned in this article and you think that it should have been included, please let our editorial staff know about it! Contact us at [email protected].
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