Best Brightening Facial Cleansing Gels of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Brightening facial cleansing gels are a popular choice for those looking to achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion. These gels are specially formulated to gently remove impurities and dead skin cells, while also brightening and evening out skin tone. They often contain ingredients like vitamin C, which is known for its brightening properties, and gentle exfoliants like glycolic acid or salicylic acid. Many brightening facial cleansing gels also have a refreshing, invigorating scent and leave the skin feeling clean, soft, and revitalized. These products can be used daily as part of a regular skincare routine to help maintain a healthy, glowing complexion.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel Cover #TOP 1
Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel Cover #TOP 2
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Juice Beauty Green Apple Cleanser Cover #TOP 3
Juice Beauty Green Apple Cleanser
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Brightening Facial Cleansing Gels

Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel

ET1010
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel Cover
Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel - Vegan Cleanser for Radiant Skin - Pomegranate, Blackberry & Acai Infused - Antioxidant-Rich Gentle Formula for All Skin Types - 4 Fl Oz

Looking for a gentle cleanser that can give you brighter appearance? Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel is here to help you. This vegan cleansing gel is packed with antioxidant-rich pomegranate, blackberry, and acai to support your skin's natural glow. Suitable for all skin types, this gel cleanses, removes impurities and balances. It is also free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, petrolatum, and formaldehyde. Just a drop or two, gently massaging with wet fingertips, and rinse thoroughly for a brighter and glowing skin.

What We Like
Vegan, certified cruelty-free, and free from harmful chemicals
Gentle cleanser that removes dirt, oil, and makeup effectively
Antioxidant-rich pomegranate, blackberry, and acai supports natural glow
Suitable for all skin types
Superfruit + chlorella scent for refreshing experience

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel

071249419854
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel Cover
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Brightening Cleansing Gel wth Salicylic Acid 6.7 fl oz

The L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel with Salicylic Acid gently dissolves impurities, makeup, and dead cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Its non-drying formula hydrates and refines the appearance of enlarged pores. This fragrance-free, paraben-free, allergy-tested, mineral oil-free, and dye-free formula is perfect for daily use. Dermatologist-validated, it preps your skin for serum application and is perfect for resurfacing your skin.

What We Like
Removes impurities, oil, and makeup
Hydrates and refreshes the skin
Non-drying formula perfect for daily use

Juice Beauty Green Apple Cleanser

834893010484
Juice Beauty Green Apple Cleanser Cover
Juice Beauty GREEN APPLE Brightening Gel Cleanser, Antioxidant-Rich Hydrating Facial Cleanser for a Brighter Complexion - Face Cleanser Hydrates & Nourishes with Algae, Vitamin E - 4.5 fl oz

The Juice Beauty Cleanser is designed to enhance your complexion while providing essential hydration. This antioxidant-rich formula features organic botanical juices and sugar cane-based exfoliants that help brighten your skin. With coconut cleansers, it gently removes impurities, leaving your face feeling fresh and clean. The Malic Acid from organic green apples works to refine your skin’s texture, giving you a smoother appearance. For best results, simply massage the cleanser onto your face, neck, and décolleté, then rinse thoroughly. Experience the nourishing benefits of this facial cleanser in your daily routine.

What We Like
Antioxidant-rich formula
Gentle exfoliation
Hydrating ingredients
Brightens complexion
#TOP 4

Garnier SkinActive Green Labs Brightening Gel Washable Cleanser

603084578320
Pinea-C
Garnier SkinActive Green Labs Brightening Gel Washable Cleanser Cover
Garnier SkinActive Green Labs Brightening Gel Washable Cleanser with Vitamin C and for Dull and Uneven Skin 4.4 Packaging May Vary, Pinea-C, Pineapple, 13.2 Fl Oz

Garnier SkinActive Green Labs Brightening Gel Washable Cleanser, also known as Garnier Brightening Gel Cleanser, is a gentle scrub-free wash that effectively removes makeup and impurities while smoothing the skin texture. Infused with Vitamin C and Pineapple, this cleanser works to improve dull and uneven skin, leaving it smoother, brighter, and glowing. The vegan formula is approved by Cruelty Free International and does not contain any animal-derived ingredients, sulfates, microbeads, parabens, or dyes. Suitable for all skin types and tones, this cleanser is allergy and dermatologist tested, making it safe for sensitive skin. For even more radiant and even skin, it can be paired with Green Labs Pinea-C Brightening Serum Cream.

What We Like
Makeup and impurities removal
Improves dull and uneven skin
Vegan formula, cruelty-free
#TOP 5

Restorative Elements Brightening Gel Cleanser

Restorative Elements
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Restorative Elements Brightening Gel Cleanser Cover
Restorative Elements Brightening Gel Cleanser – 2 fl oz. / 59 ml | Vitamin C with Niacinamide Dark Spot Cleanser

The Restorative Elements Gel Cleanser is a gentle yet effective way to cleanse your skin. It creates a soft lather that removes makeup and impurities from deep within your pores, leaving your skin feeling refreshed. This cleanser is enriched with a unique blend of niacinamide, centella asiatica, licorice root, and Kakadu plum, which work together to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation. It is safe for all skin types and can be used twice daily, ensuring that you can maintain a bright and even complexion effortlessly.

What We Like
Gentle on the skin
Helps reduce dark spots
Suitable for all skin types
Removes impurities effectively
#TOP 6

Taweengam Vitamin C Cleansing Gel

Generic
Taweengam Vitamin C Cleansing Gel Cover
Taweengam Facial Cleansing Gel Cleanser Skin Care Brightening Boots Vitamin C YUZU Extract 100 ml x 2

Taweengam Cleansing Gel is a refreshing facial cleanser designed to brighten your skin. With its Vitamin C and Yuzu extract, it helps to enhance your complexion while effectively removing impurities. Use it morning and evening for a thorough cleanse; simply apply the gel, create a lather, and rinse it away. This product not only cleanses but also promotes clear skin, making it an essential part of your skincare routine. If you're not completely satisfied, the brand offers support to resolve any issues, ensuring a worry-free experience.

What We Like
Brightens skin
Gentle cleansing action
Supports clear complexion
Easy to use

RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser

RoC
210101900
ORANGE
6 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser Cover
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser With Vitamin C, & Glycolic Acid, Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free Skin Care, Stocking Stuffers for Men & Women, 6 Ounces

RoC Glow Gel Cleanser is an invigorating gel cleanser that instantly dissolves dirt and oils, revealing smooth and refreshed skin after just one use. It extracts dulling impurities trapped on the skin's surface and replenishes skin with Vitamin C, Ascorbic Acid, and Glycerin to brighten and boost radiance. In just two weeks, users can see brighter and radiant skin, improve uneven skin tone, and visibly smooth rough skin texture. 8 out of 10 users saw more radiant skin with daily cleansing. RoC Glow Gel Cleanser is perfect for those looking for a solution for deep wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, crow's feet, uneven skin tone, or dry skin. With its citrus scent and paraben-free and sulfate-free formula, it is a must-have for people who want to achieve healthy-looking skin.

What We Like
Instantly reveals smooth and refreshed skin
Brightens and boosts radiance
Improves uneven skin tone
#TOP 8

purlisse Pineapple Bright Cleansing Gel

1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
purlisse Pineapple Bright Cleansing Gel Cover
purlisse PINEAPPLE BRIGHT CLEANSING GEL Cruelty-free & clean, Paraben & Sulfate-free, Pineapple brightens skin, Aloe Vera calms and soothes| 3.4 fl oz

The purlisse Pineapple Bright Cleansing Gel gently removes makeup and dirt without stripping natural oils, making it perfect for daily use. Its blend of natural ingredients, including pineapple, lemon, camu camu, and aloe vera, brightens, soothes, and moisturizes skin while preventing inflammation and signs of aging. Suitable for all skin types, this cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, and hypoallergenic cleansing gel is a deep cleanser that clears impurities from pores without drying skin.

What We Like
Gently removes makeup and dirt without stripping natural oils
Brightens, soothes, and moisturizes skin while preventing inflammation and signs of aging
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
#TOP 9

Nip + Fab Vitamin C Gel Cleanser

SKUVITCCL
Nip + Fab Vitamin C Gel Cleanser Cover
Nip + Fab Vitamin C Fix Gel Cleanser Brightening Hydrating Facial Cleansing Face Wash for Skin Toning, 4.9 Fl Oz

The Nip + Fab Gel Cleanser is designed to give your skin a fresh, radiant glow. Enriched with vitamin C, this cleanser hydrates while cleansing, helping you achieve a balanced and brighter complexion. You’ll appreciate how it gently removes dirt and impurities, leaving your skin feeling refreshed. Additionally, the inclusion of amino acids in the formula aids in improving your skin's clarity, promoting an even skin tone. Make this part of your daily routine to enjoy clearer, more vibrant skin every day.

What We Like
Brightens skin tone
Hydrates effectively
Gentle cleansing formula
Improves skin clarity

NOW Foods Vitamin C and Manuka Honey Gel Cleanser

7997
Amber
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
NOW Foods Vitamin C and Manuka Honey Gel Cleanser Cover
NOW Foods Solutions, Vitamin C and Manuka Honey Gel Cleanser, Brightening System, Promotes Healthy-Looking Skin, 8-Ounce

The NOW Foods Gel Cleanser is designed for those with combination or dry skin who want a gentle yet effective cleansing solution. It helps brighten your skin tone while smoothing out texture and renewing dullness, giving you a fresh look. Enriched with extra virgin olive oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E, this cleanser draws moisture to your skin without blocking pores. It's perfect for addressing minor color imbalances and imperfections. Plus, you can trust its quality, as it’s made in a GMP-certified facility, ensuring a reliable and safe product for your skincare routine.

What We Like
Gentle on skin
Brightens skin tone
Moisturizes without clogging
Quality assurance certified
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our brightening facial cleansing gel research, we found 48 brightening facial cleansing gel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 72,778 customer reviews through our big data system to write the brightening facial cleansing gels list. We found that most customers choose brightening facial cleansing gels with an average price of $17.54.

The brightening facial cleansing gels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of brightening facial cleansing gels, including Acure, Juice Beauty, Garnier, Restorative Elements, RoC. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 143 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.