Best Sulfate-Free Facial Cleansers of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Sulfate-free facial cleansers have gained popularity in recent years due to their gentle yet effective cleansing properties. These cleansers are formulated without harsh sulfates, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness or irritation. Instead, they use alternative cleansing agents that are milder and more suitable for all skin types, including sensitive or dry skin. Sulfate-free facial cleansers effectively remove dirt, makeup, and impurities without compromising the skin's natural moisture barrier. They leave the skin feeling clean, refreshed, and balanced, making them a popular choice for those seeking a gentle and nourishing cleansing experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Olay Retinol 24 + Peptide Face Wash Cover #TOP 1
Olay Retinol 24 + Peptide Face Wash
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Facial Cleanser Cover #TOP 2
Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Facial Cleanser
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash Cover #TOP 3
Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Sulfate-Free Facial Cleansers

#TOP 1

Olay Retinol 24 + Peptide Face Wash

PR80369063
Olay Retinol 24 + Peptide Face Wash Cover
Olay Retinol 24 + Peptide Face Wash, Smoothing, Sulfate-Free, 16 oz

Get soft and smooth skin with Olay Retinol 24 + Peptide Face Wash. This sulfate-free daily facial cleanser hydrates to nourish your skin's surface without drying it out. It contains Retinol, Niacinamide, and Peptides that help in hydrating while cleansing, removing dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin. Use it twice daily and experience clean, fresh skin instantly, and soft, smooth skin within a week.

What We Like
Sulfate-free and creamy
Hydrates while cleansing
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities without drying out the skin

Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Facial Cleanser

381370036913
6 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Facial Cleanser Cover
Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Oil-Free Facial Cleanser with Soy Extract & 0.5% Salicylic Acid, Acne Treatment Face Wash for Acne-Prone Skin, Sulfate-Free & Hypoallergenic, 6 fl. oz

Aveeno Clear Complexion Cleanser is a moisture-rich facial wash that helps prevent breakouts and fight acne. With its Total Soy Complex, this 6-fluid ounce bottle of foaming cleanser helps even out skin tone and texture. The salicylic acid ingredient treats and fights acne by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. This oil-free and non-comedogenic cleanser is gentle enough for daily use and does not leave any residue. Achieve clear and healthy-looking skin with Aveeno Clear Complexion Cleanser.

What We Like
Prevents breakouts
Fights acne
Moisturizes with Total Soy Complex
#TOP 3

Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash

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Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash Cover
Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash, Clarifying, Sulfate-Free, 16 oz

Olay Niacinamide + Peptide 24 Face Wash is a sulfate-free daily facial cleanser that gently removes dirt, oil, and impurities to give you healthy-looking skin. The formula contains Niacinamide, Peptides, and Glycerin which work together to refine pores and leave your skin feeling fresh and clean. It's lightly scented and lathers into a translucent foam that won't dry out your skin. Use it morning and night to reveal healthy-looking skin within a week.

What We Like
Sulfate-free and lightly scented
Cleanses skin without drying it out
Contains Niacinamide, Peptides, and Glycerin to refine pores and give you healthy-looking skin

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

0299.011040
no color
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser Cover
Cetaphil Face Wash, Hydrating Gentle Skin Cleanser for Dry to Normal Sensitive Skin, NEW 20 oz, Fragrance Free, Soap Free and Non-Foaming

Cetaphil Cleanser is a dermatologist-recommended facial cleansing wash that is clinically proven to hydrate and cleanse the skin while preserving its moisture barrier. It is ideal for those with dry to normal, sensitive skin, as it contains a new and improved ingredient blend that includes hydrating glycerin and skin essential vitamins B5 and B3. The hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic formula is free of fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. With its gentle and non-foaming formula, Cetaphil Cleanser provides 48 hours of hydration when wiped off versus rinsing. This makes it convenient for daily use, even after repeat washes.

What We Like
Hydrates and cleanses skin
Preserves skin's moisture barrier
Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam

Clear
innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam Cover
innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam, Sulfate Free, Hydrating Korean Face Wash with Gentle Foam

This innisfree Green Tea Cleanser is a creamy foam enriched with Green Tea antioxidants and Amino Acids for deep hydration. The lathering formula ensures thorough cleansing without stripping your skin, leaving it soft and refreshed. The Green Tea Water provides rich antioxidants, while the Amino Acid Complex offers a gentle cleanse without drying out your skin. This vegan-certified facial cleanser by innisfree is perfect for hydrating and refreshing your face after a long day.

What We Like
Hydrating and refreshing
Gentle yet thorough cleanse
Vegan-certified

Cetaphil Fragrance Free Daily Facial Cleanser

0299.392740
no color
Cetaphil Fragrance Free Daily Facial Cleanser Cover
Cetaphil Face Wash, Daily Facial Cleanser for Sensitive, Combination to Oily Skin, 16 Oz, Fragrance Free, Gentle Foaming, Soap Free, Hypoallergenic

Cetaphil Fragrance Free Daily Facial Cleanser is a gentle foaming, soap-free, and hypoallergenic facial wash, designed to cleanse and balance sensitive, combination to oily skin. The dermatologist recommended formula is clinically proven to deep clean and remove dirt, excess oils, impurities, and pollution microparticles. This face wash defends against five signs of skin sensitivity, such as dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and weakened skin barrier, while reinforcing the skin barrier, balancing skin, and minimizing the appearance of pores.

What We Like
Gentle foaming and soap-free formula.
Clinically proven to deep clean, remove dirt, excess oils, impurities, and pollution microparticles.
Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and free of parabens and sulfates.

CETAPHIL Daily Facial Cleanser, Gentle Foaming Face Wash

0299.011341
white
CETAPHIL Daily Facial Cleanser, Gentle Foaming Face Wash Cover
Cetaphil Face Wash, Daily Facial Cleanser for Sensitive, Combination to Oily Skin, 20 oz, Gentle Foaming, Soap Free, Hypoallergenic

CETAPHIL Daily Facial Cleanser is a hypoallergenic, soap-free face wash designed to deep clean and balance the skin while minimizing the appearance of pores. This non-comedogenic formula is clinically proven to remove dirt, excess oils, impurities, and pollution microparticles, making it ideal for sensitive, combination to oily skin types. Dermatologist recommended, it also reinforces the skin barrier and defends against five signs of skin sensitivity, including dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and weakened skin barrier.

What We Like
Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formula
Clinically proven to deep clean and balance the skin
Defends against five signs of skin sensitivity
Reinforces the skin barrier and minimizes the appearance of pores
#TOP 8

TBH Kids Gentle Gel Face Wash

TBH
TBH.GFW6
6 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
TBH Kids Gentle Gel Face Wash Cover
TBH Kids Gentle Gel Face Wash for Kids, Preteens, and Teens with Sensitive Dry Oily Skin - Gentle Facial Cleanser and Hydrating Facewash for Girls and Boys - Sulfate Free, Paraben Free - 6 Oz

TBH Kids Face Wash is designed to make skincare enjoyable for children and teens. Its gentle, dye-free formula cleanses while keeping skin hydrated, making it perfect for sensitive skin. You’ll appreciate that it’s free from harsh chemicals and preservatives, ensuring a safe wash for all skin types. The inclusion of chamomile and calendula helps soothe the skin, keeping pores clean and combating dryness and irritation. With this face wash, your kids can develop good hygiene habits while enjoying a product that feels fun and refreshing.

What We Like
Gentle, hydrating formula
Free from harsh chemicals
Soothes and conditions skin
Encourages good hygiene habits
#TOP 9

Boldly Basic Fragrance Free Face Wash

Boldly Basic
Clear
Boldly Basic Fragrance Free Face Wash Cover
Boldly Basic Fragrance Free Face Wash - Gentle Facial Cleanser on Sensitive Skin - Unscented - Dermatologist Tested - Sulfate Free - Paraben Free - Gluten Free - Non Comedogenic and Hypoallergenic

Boldly Basic Face Wash is a gentle facial cleanser specially formulated for sensitive skin. Dermatologist tested, it is proven to be non-irritating, making it doctor approved and recommended. The product lineup includes shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, ensuring a complete irritant-free shower routine. Fragrance-free, toxin-free, gluten-free, and nut-free, it caters to those with allergies. Safe for the whole family, this face wash is ideal for adults and kids who are sensitive to fragranced products. Made in the USA, Boldly Basic Face Wash guarantees quality from label to formulation.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Full product lineup available
Fragrance, toxin, gluten, and nut-free
#TOP 10

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Cleanser

19695
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 5)
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Cleanser Cover
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Facial Cleanser with Soothing Non-GMO Oat, Hydrating Face Wash for Soft & Supple Skin, Free of Parabens, Sulfates, Fragrance, Dyes & Soaps, 5 fl. oz

The Aveeno Facial Cleanser is designed to gently cleanse your skin while keeping it hydrated. With soothing non-GMO oats, it helps to calm irritation and maintain your skin's natural moisture balance. This hydrating formula is free from parabens, sulfates, fragrances, dyes, and soaps, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. You can enjoy a clean and soft complexion without worrying about harsh chemicals. This product is perfect for daily use, ensuring your skin stays supple and refreshed.

What We Like
Gentle cleansing
Hydrating formula
Soothes skin irritation
Free of harsh chemicals
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is sulfate-free face wash good?

Yes, sulfate-free face washes are beneficial for your skin. They promote collagen production, prevent premature aging, and give your skin a natural glow. Sulfate-free cleansers are made with organic ingredients that do not cause skin breakouts or acne, making them a great choice for maintaining healthy and radiant skin.

2. Are sulfates bad in facial cleansers?

Yes, sulfates can be harmful in facial cleansers. They are too harsh and stripping, which can damage the skin barrier and lead to irritation, discomfort, and breakouts. Sulfates can also remove natural oils from the skin, which may cause dryness and fade color. It is recommended to choose sulfate-free facial cleansers for gentle and effective skincare.

3. What does sulfate do to your face?

Sulfates can dry out the skin, and some individuals may experience increased acne when in frequent contact with sodium lauryl sulfate. It is important to be mindful of the potential drying and irritating effects of sulfates on the skin, and consider using sulfate-free products to maintain a healthy and balanced complexion.

4. What ingredients should I avoid in a cleanser?

When choosing a cleanser, it is best to avoid certain ingredients such as aluminum, DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (monoethanolamine), TEA (triethanolamine), DMDM hydantoin and urea, mineral oil, parabens, PEG (polyethylene glycol), phthalates, and propylene glycol (PG) and butylene glycol. These ingredients can have potential side effects and may not be suitable for all skin types.

Editor's Notes

During our sulfate-free facial cleanser research, we found 48 sulfate-free facial cleanser products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 173,313 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sulfate-free facial cleansers list. We found that most customers choose sulfate-free facial cleansers with an average price of $11.56.

The sulfate-free facial cleansers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sulfate-free facial cleansers, including Olay, Aveeno, Cetaphil, innisfree, TBH. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.