Best Oil-Free Facial Cleansing Gels of 2025

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

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Oil-free facial cleansing gels are a popular skincare product that effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. These gels are suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, and sensitive skin. The oil-free formula helps to prevent breakouts and promote a clearer complexion, making it an ideal choice for those with acne-prone skin. These cleansing gels are easy to use and provide a refreshing sensation that leaves the skin feeling clean and rejuvenated. With a range of brands and formulations available, it's easy to find the perfect oil-free facial cleansing gel for your specific skincare needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel Cover #TOP 1
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser Cover #TOP 2
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Differin Facial Cleanser Cover #TOP 3
Differin Facial Cleanser
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Oil-Free Facial Cleansing Gels

Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel

2185007
Green
8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel Cover
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel for All Skin Types| Oil-Free Face Wash with Grapefruit & Papaya Extract | Remove Excess Oil & Surface Impurities 8 Fl Oz

Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel is a deep-cleansing, daily face cleanser suitable for all skin types. Formulated with papaya and grapefruit extracts, it helps remove excess oil and surface impurities, leaving your skin looking bright and refreshed. Free from sulfates, phthalates, and gluten, this vegan and cruelty-free product is perfect for removing the day's makeup, dirt, and oil without drying out your skin. Made in the USA, it is a great choice for those who want a high-quality and effective facial cleansing gel.

What We Like
Formulated with papaya and grapefruit extracts to remove excess oil and surface impurities
Suitable for all skin types, leaving your skin looking bright and refreshed
Free from sulfates, phthalates, and gluten, making it vegan and cruelty-free

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser

U31000TR
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser Cover
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser | 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser + LHA + Glycerin | Foaming Acne Face Wash | Helps Clear & Prevent Acne Breakouts | Oil Free Acne Wash | Targets Excess Oil

Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser by La Roche-Posay is a clinically tested facial cleanser that helps clear acne breakouts, blemishes, and pimples. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid, it removes impurities without harsh scrub particles that may irritate skin. The salicylic acid is known for its effective exfoliating properties that help clear and refine the appearance of pores, while the lipo-hydroxy acid has exfoliating and skin renewing properties. This acne face wash is allergy tested, dermatologist tested, and non-comedogenic. It can reduce excess surface oil by up to 47%, leaving your skin less oily throughout the day. With Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, your skin is deeply cleansed and breakouts are diminished, leaving your skin looking even and smooth.

What We Like
Helps clear acne breakouts
Reduces excess surface oil
Gentle exfoliation with no harsh particles
#TOP 3

Differin Facial Cleanser

0299.022108
no color
6 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Differin Facial Cleanser Cover
Differin Facial Cleanser, Daily Oil Free Hydrating Face Wash by the makers of Differin Gel, Gentle Skin Care for Acne Prone Skin, PHAs, 6 Oz.

Differin Cleanser is a daily oil-free hydrating face wash designed to rebalance the skin and cleanse it effectively. With 5% polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), this facial cleanser gently softens and hydrates the skin while regulating its natural pH balance. The amino-acid based cleansing system breaks down and dissolves surface oil and pore-clogging impurities, making it ideal for oily or combination skin. To use, apply the gentle formula twice a day to a wet face in circular motions and rinse off. Users can expect to see boosted hydration and a healthier-looking complexion.

What We Like
Rebalances skin pH
Gentle and hydrating
Effective cleansing system
#TOP 4

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Facial Gel Cleanser

06424
White
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Facial Gel Cleanser Cover
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Facial Cleansing Gel, Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser and Makeup Remover with Hyaluronic Acid, Hypoallergenic Formula, 7.8 FL OZ

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Facial Gel Cleanser comes in a 7.8-fluid ounce bottle and is designed to boost skin's hydration for soft, supple skin. The gel formula is lightweight and easy to apply, transforming into a silky lather that effectively washes away dirt, oil, and bacteria while lifting away make-up without stripping your skin. This cleanser is soap-free, oil-free, and paraben-free, making it gentle and hypoallergenic. It also contains hyaluronic acid, proven to increase skin's hydration and lock it in for a refreshing and hydrating at-home self-care experience. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Collection includes a range of hydrating products with hyaluronic acid.

What We Like
Increases skin's hydration and locks it in
Effective in washing away dirt, oil, bacteria, and make-up
Gentle, hypoallergenic, and paraben-free

Eucerin Hydrating Cleansing Gel

EUC-03014
Clear
Eucerin Hydrating Cleansing Gel Cover
Eucerin Hydrating Cleansing Gel, Daily Face Wash and Makeup Remover Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, 6.8 Fl Oz Bottle

Eucerin Hydrating Cleansing Gel is a gentle, daily facial cleanser that supports your skin's moisture balance. This sensitive skin cleanser is soap-free, formulated with hyaluronic acid and APG Cleansing Complex to lift and remove impurities, including makeup, from the skin, providing thorough but gentle cleansing. It is clinically proven to be suitable for sensitive skin and free of fragrance, alcohol, oils, soap, and parabens, making it perfect for daily use. Eucerin is a trusted and dermatologist-recommended brand, offering skin care products to restore and sustain healthy-looking skin.

What We Like
Gentle, daily facial cleanser suitable for sensitive skin
Formulated with hyaluronic acid and APG Cleansing Complex to lift and remove impurities, including makeup, from the skin
Clinically proven to be free of fragrance, alcohol, oils, soap, and parabens
#TOP 6

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Gel Cleanser

3337875890069
La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Gel Cleanser Cover
La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Gel Cleanser | Formulated With Melasyl + Niacinamide + PHA | Anti Aging Face Wash For Discoloration, Dark Spots & Post Acne Marks | Dark Spot Corrector | Oil Free & Soap Free

The La Roche-Posay Face Wash is a brightening cleanser designed to combat stubborn dark spots and discoloration. With its unique Melasyl and Niacinamide ingredients, it works to visibly reduce dark spots while maintaining your skin's natural tone. This gel cleanser effectively removes dirt and impurities without stripping moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth. Additionally, it gently exfoliates to promote a more even skin tone, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their complexion.

What We Like
Brightens skin tone
Gentle on sensitive skin
Oil-free and soap-free
Reduces dark spots

Clean & Clear Aloe Vera Gentle Facial Cleanser

00381371196074
White
Clean & Clear Aloe Vera Gentle Facial Cleanser Cover
Clean & Clear Aloe Vera Gentle Facial Cleanser for Acne-Prone & Sensitive Skin, Oil-Free Daily Face Wash with Aloe Vera, Vegan, No Animal Testing, Paraben-, Soap- & Dye-Free, 7.5 fl. oz

Clean & Clear Aloe Cleanser is an oil-free daily face wash that helps to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria from sensitive, acne-prone skin. Infused with aloe vera, this gentle cleanser is perfect for those who need a calming effect on their skin. With a refreshing scent, this cleanser is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, oils, soaps, and dyes, making it suitable for vegans and not tested on animals. Use it in conjunction with the Clean & Clear Aloe Calming Gel Moisturizer for optimal results.

What We Like
Gentle for sensitive skin
Vegan and cruelty-free
Oil-free formula

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Cleanser

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Cleanser Cover
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser | Niacinamide + Ceramides + Prebiotic Thermal Water | Oil Free Face Wash For Oily Skin | Pore Cleanser Safe For Sensitive Skin | Soap Free

The La Roche-Posay Foaming Cleanser is designed to gently purify your skin while effectively removing excess oil. With its unique blend of prebiotic thermal spring water, niacinamide, and ceramide-3, this cleanser helps maintain your skin’s natural barrier and pH level, leaving it feeling healthier. You'll appreciate the gentle foaming action that cleanses away dirt, makeup, and impurities without leaving any pore-clogging residue. Perfect for both men and women, this oil-free and soap-free formula ensures your skin feels fresh and comfortable after each wash.

What We Like
Gentle yet effective cleansing
Maintains skin barrier
Pore-clogging residue free
Suitable for sensitive skin

No7 Melting Gel Cleanser

No7
31-70-810
5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
No7 Melting Gel Cleanser Cover
No7 Melting Gel Cleanser - Makeup Remover Balm with Vitamin C + Vitamin E - Hydrating Facial Cleanser for Dry Skin - Skin Balancing Milky Cleansing Balm (150 ml)

No7 Cleanser Gel is a transformative facial cleanser that can be used as a make-up remover and face cleanser. The vitamin-rich formula is infused with vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B5, and Grapeseed Oil. This hydrating cleanser and makeup remover dissolves all makeup and impurities without stripping skin of essential moisture. It lathers into a luxurious milk when rinsed away, leaving skin feeling replenished and clean. It is perfect for double cleansing routines or daily use as a dry skin face wash and makeup remover. The No7 Cleanser Gel is dermatologically tested, making it a safe and effective option for skincare.

What We Like
Hydrating and nourishing
Vitamin-rich formula
Luxurious lather
#TOP 10

Mario Badescu Botanical Facial Gel Cleanser

131326
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Mario Badescu Botanical Facial Gel Cleanser Cover
Mario Badescu Botanical Facial Gel Cleanser - Lightweight, Oil-Free Face Wash for Women and Men - Face Cleanser Infused with Refreshing AHA Grapefruit Extracts, 8 Fl Oz

The Mario Badescu Gel Cleanser is a refreshing choice for anyone looking to cleanse their face effectively. It deeply removes dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean. With the added exfoliating power of alpha hydroxy acid, it helps to gently slough away dead skin cells, promoting a brighter complexion. This product's non-soap formula ensures that it cleans without stripping your skin of its natural moisture, making it suitable for all skin types. Experience a gentle yet effective cleansing routine with this lightweight and oil-free face wash.

What We Like
Deep cleansing action
Exfoliates gently
Non-soap formula
Lightweight and oil-free
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is gel cleanser oil free?

Gentle gel cleanser effectively removes impurities and makeup without stripping the skin. Mattifies while soothing the skin. Soap-free for a physiological pH....Refresh skin with Avène Oil Free Gel Cleanser.

2. Are cleansing gels good for oily skin?

“Gel cleansers are usually better for oily and acne-prone skin,” says Aly. She suggests using the Kate Somerville Cleansers as part of your regular skincare regimen for oily skin.

Editor's Notes

During our oil-free facial cleansing gel research, we found 48 oil-free facial cleansing gel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 363,663 customer reviews through our big data system to write the oil-free facial cleansing gels list. We found that most customers choose oil-free facial cleansing gels with an average price of $18.03.

The oil-free facial cleansing gels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of oil-free facial cleansing gels, including Mario Badescu, La Roche-Posay, Differin, Neutrogena, Eucerin. 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.