Dealing with shiny skin can feel like a full-time job. Finding the best cleanser for oily skin is the first step to getting that glow under control. The right wash should remove excess oil without leaving your face feeling tight or dry. In this guide, we have tested and picked the top products that actually work to keep your pores clear and your skin matte.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Cleanser For Oily Skin Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Amazon Basics Acne Cleanser with 10% Benzoyl Peroxide for Maximum Strength Oily Skin Breakout Control
★★★★☆ 4.3/5
This maximum strength wash is a lifesaver for those with very oily skin and stubborn pimples. It uses a high dose of benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria deep in your pores. If you want a clear face without spending a lot, this is a top pick.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Maximum strength 10% benzoyl peroxide formula
- ✓ Clears existing acne and helps prevent new breakouts
- ✓ Free from parabens and formaldehyde donors
- ✓ Continues to work even after you rinse it off
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this because it is highly effective for active breakouts. It provides the same power as expensive brands but at a much better price point for daily use.
Best For
This is best for individuals with severe oily skin and frequent acne issues who need a deep, antibacterial clean.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable for the strength provided
- Effectively dries up active pimples quickly
- Large bottle lasts a long time
- Simple, no-fuss ingredients list
Cons:
- Will bleach colored towels and clothes
- Can be very drying if used too often
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This helps keep my skin relatively clear and doesn’t dry it out. Best value for the active ingredient. Warning: this will bleach towels, as will any product with this active ingredient; use an old towel or a white towel to dry your face. It does not bleach hair or eyebrows, though.”
Customer Review: “I prefer this product over the slightly more expensive popular brand sold on Amazon. It has more of a tingle to it when applied but I prefer this because it feels like it’s working more effectively.”
2. Pyunkang Yul Cleansing Foam Korean Facial Wash with Coconut Extract for Gentle Oily Skin Daily Care
★★★★☆ 4.5/5
This Korean facial wash offers a stretchy, unique texture that grabs onto oil and dirt. It uses coconut extract to clean your skin without any harsh feelings. It is the best cleanser for oily skin if you want something that feels luxurious but gentle.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Stretchy consistency that adheres to waste in pores
- ✓ Natural surfactants derived from coconut
- ✓ Contains Saposhnikovia Divaricata root for calming
- ✓ Dermatologically tested for zero irritation
Why We Recommend It
We love this foam because it leaves the skin feeling soft rather than stripped. It is excellent for “double cleansing” and helps maintain a healthy moisture barrier while removing grease.
Best For
Perfect for people who have oily skin but also deal with sensitivity or redness.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- A tiny pea-sized amount goes a long way
- Unique texture provides a very deep clean
- Very mild and pleasant scent
- Great value for a high-quality K-beauty product
Cons:
- The stretchy texture can be a bit messy to dispense
- May not be strong enough for very heavy waterproof makeup
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’m so glad I found this brand. One of my favorite face washes is Checks and balances by Origins. This is exactly like it, but more than half the price. You need a pea sized amount of this stuff. It doesnt work as well if you use too much product so it will last forever!”
Customer Review: “I have so much trouble finding a face wash that I really like but now, I think I finally found it. It doesn’t feel greasy or too drying, and it foams perfectly.”
3. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser Fragrance Free Face Wash for Sensitive and Oily Skin
★★★★☆ 4.6/5
If you have oily skin that gets irritated easily, this Neutrogena cleanser is a safe bet. It creates a rich lather that washes away grease and makeup without any fragrance or harsh dyes. It is a simple, effective choice for a clean face.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula
- ✓ Rich foaming lather that removes excess oil and makeup
- ✓ Developed by dermatologists for sensitive skin
- ✓ Soap-free and dye-free to prevent irritation
Why We Recommend It
This is a great budget pick because the bottle is huge and the formula is very reliable. It cleans deeply enough for oily skin but stays gentle enough for people who have allergies or sensitive spots.
Best For
Budget-conscious shoppers with oily and sensitive skin who need a large, long-lasting bottle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the 16oz size
- Non-comedogenic (won’t clog your pores)
- Rinses off very cleanly with no residue
- Works well for removing daily light makeup
Cons:
- Some users notice a slight “glue-like” scent despite being fragrance-free
- The pump can sometimes be a bit stiff
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I guess I didn’t read the description, but this is 16oz!!! This was a wonderful price, and a huge bottle. Very pleased with the purchase. My face is very sensitive and this works great.”
Customer Review: “I purchased this for my niece with oily skin prone to breakouts. It works very well in controlling oil and reducing acne without drying out her skin. The foam texture feels light and refreshing.”
4. Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser for Sensitive and Combination to Oily Skin with Gentle Soap Free Formula
★★★★☆ 4.7/5
Cetaphil is a classic for a reason. This daily wash is designed to deep clean while actually reinforcing your skin’s natural barrier. It helps minimize the look of pores and removes daily pollution particles from your face.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Soap-free and sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Removes dirt, excess oil, and pollution microparticles
- ✓ Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
- ✓ Balances skin while protecting the moisture barrier
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this because it is extremely consistent. It won’t cause surprise breakouts and is gentle enough to use twice a day, every day, without making your skin peel or flake.
Best For
People with combination skin that is mostly oily, especially those who want a brand recommended by doctors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Leaves skin feeling very soft and balanced
- Does not leave a tight or “squeaky” feeling
- Great for removing daily grime and environmental toxins
- Trusted by dermatologists for many years
Cons:
- Does not produce a lot of foam, which some people miss
- Not the best at removing heavy, waterproof mascara
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is even better than other big brands. It’s more gentle and hydrating. No lather, but it’s not supposed to. It softens my face like crazy and a little goes a long way!”
Customer Review: “I highly recommend this cleanser. It is gentle on the skin yet effective at removing dirt and oil. My skin feels clean and balanced after every use—not tight or stripped.”
5. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin with Hyaluronic Acid Ceramides and Niacinamide Oil Control
★★★★☆ 4.8/5
CeraVe Foaming is often called the best cleanser for oily skin by skincare experts. It contains ceramides to help your skin stay healthy and niacinamide to calm down redness and oil production. It starts as a gel and turns into a nice foam.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Formulated with 3 essential ceramides
- ✓ Contains niacinamide for skin calming
- ✓ Hyaluronic acid helps retain natural moisture
- ✓ Gel-to-foam texture for satisfying cleaning
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it because it hits all the right notes for oily skin. It controls oil without breaking the skin barrier. It is fragrance-free and very unlikely to cause any negative reactions.
Best For
Anyone with oily skin who wants a high-tech formula that keeps the skin barrier strong.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Does not leave skin feeling tight or dry
- Cleanses very deeply in just one wash
- Can also be used on the body for back acne
- Very affordable price for the quality of ingredients
Cons:
- The gel can be a bit thick and requires a lot of water to foam
- The pump might occasionally leak during shipping
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Gamechanger! Recommended by my facialist and I absolutely love this cleanser. Super gentle, doesn’t cause me to break out. Great price. Face feels super clean after using.”
Customer Review: “An excellent daily wash for anyone with oily skin who wants a deep clean without irritation. The ceramides and niacinamide help maintain the skin’s health.”
6. Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam with BHA and Hyaluronic Acid for Oily Skin
★★★★☆ 4.6/5
This Anua cleansing foam is a trend-setter for a reason. It uses Heartleaf extract and BHA to go deep into your pores and dissolve clogs. It is perfect if you struggle with blackheads alongside your oily skin.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Contains BHA (Salicylic Acid) for deep pore exfoliation
- ✓ Heartleaf extract to soothe inflammation and redness
- ✓ Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated while BHA works
- ✓ Rich, creamy foam that feels high-end
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it because it actually helps shrink the appearance of pores over time. The combination of BHA and Heartleaf is a perfect match for calming oily, angry skin.
Best For
People with large pores, blackheads, and oily skin who like a creamy foam texture.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Leaves skin looking much brighter and clearer
- Effectively removes sunscreen and daily grime
- Great for people with acne-prone skin
- Soothing properties prevent typical BHA irritation
Cons:
- The Heartleaf powder bits may feel slightly grainy to some
- Can be slightly stronger than basic washes
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this daily and I’m very impressed. It cleans deeply without stripping my skin or leaving it feeling tight. The foam is soft and creamy and works perfectly for double cleansing.”
Customer Review: “A small amount goes a long way. It deeply cleans my pores without leaving my skin feeling tight or stripped, which is something I always look for in a wash.”
7. Medicube Zero Pore Capsule Cleansing Foam with AHA BHA and PHA for Deep Oily Skin Care
★★★★☆ 4.6/5
Medicube uses a special “capsule” technology in this wash. It features AHA, BHA, and PHA to give you a complete exfoliation experience. This is for the person who wants the smoothest skin possible while fighting oil.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blue capsules soften excess sebum and blackheads
- ✓ Triple acid formula (AHA + BHA + PHA) for texture
- ✓ Amino Acid-based cleansing agents for hydration
- ✓ Cica Exosome for skin repair and calming
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it because it is an all-in-one treatment wash. It doesn’t just clean; it resurfaces your skin, making it feel like you just had a mini-facial at home.
Best For
Those struggling with rough skin texture and very stubborn blackheads.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredible at smoothing out tiny bumps on the skin
- Does not leave the skin feeling dry despite the acids
- Provides a very “fresh” and awake feeling after washing
- The foam is incredibly thick and marshmallow-like
Cons:
- More expensive than basic drugstore options
- Should be used with caution if you have very active, open acne
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The Medicube PDRN Marshmallow Whip Cleanser won me over on the very first use. I was genuinely impressed by how soft and clean my skin felt afterward. This is one of those cleansers where a tiny amount goes a long way.”
Customer Review: “I’m experiencing a breakout from sweating and this is helping me manage it. My face feels sparkly clean without being stripped.”
8. Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser Fragrance Free Gentle Foaming Wash for Sensitive and Oily Skin Types
★★★★☆ 4.7/5
This is the fragrance-free version of the famous Cetaphil daily wash. It is designed for those who want the absolute cleanest formula possible. It foams up gently to lift away the day’s oil without any scent at all.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 100% Fragrance-free for ultra-sensitive skin
- ✓ Clinically proven to remove pollution particles
- ✓ Gentle foaming action that doesn’t strip skin
- ✓ Paraben and sulfate-free
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this because it is the safest option for people with allergies. It is basic in the best way possible—it just cleans your skin well without any fluff or risks.
Best For
People who hate scents in their skincare and want a gentle, reliable foam.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Leaves zero residue behind
- Ideal for daily use twice a day
- Helps clear minor acne over time
- The foam is soft and easy to rinse
Cons:
- Some may find the formula too “plain”
- Doesn’t have active acne-fighting ingredients like BHA
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This simple product works so well! It is so soft on skin! It cleans out everything, and your face will be sparkly clean after a wash. It also works great for acne, even if not advertised.”
Customer Review: “I come across Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser and it’s the best I’ve ever used! No more dry skin or breakouts. The fragrance-free one is my favorite.”
9. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides for Normal to Dry Skin Daily Care
★★★★☆ 4.7/5
While labeled for dry skin, many people with oily skin use this as a morning wash. It is the best cleanser for oily skin when you want to keep your face hydrated and not trigger more oil production. It feels like a soothing lotion.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Non-foaming, lotion-like consistency
- ✓ Packed with 3 essential ceramides
- ✓ Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
- ✓ Fragrance-free and paraben-free
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this because some oily skin is actually dehydrated. If you use harsh soaps, your skin might make even more oil to compensate. This wash stops that cycle and keeps everything calm.
Best For
People with “oily-dehydrated” skin or as a gentle morning cleanser.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely soothing on irritated skin
- Does not disrupt the skin’s protective barrier
- Huge bottle is a very smart purchase
- Great for people with eczema or very reactive skin
Cons:
- Does not foam at all, which can feel odd to some
- Might not feel “strong” enough for a nighttime wash
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is honestly a staple for me now. I love the size of the bottle—you get a lot of product. It’s fragrance-free and perfectly gentle, making it great for daily use.”
Customer Review: “My staple in my skincare routine. It rinses away dirt without stripping my skin, and the texture feels creamy and soothing from the first wash.”
10. Skin Aesthetics Charcoal and Tea Tree Peel Off Face Mask for Blackhead Removal and Oily Skin Detox
★★★★☆ 4.4/5
Sometimes a daily wash isn’t enough to detox oily skin. This peel-off mask uses charcoal and tea tree oil to pull out gunk from your pores. It is a fantastic weekly treatment to keep your oily skin in check.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Activated charcoal for deep detoxification
- ✓ Tea tree oil to help calm breakouts
- ✓ South Korean skincare technology
- ✓ Peel-off formula that physically removes dead skin
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it as a supplement to your daily cleanser. It is great for Sunday nights when you want to “reset” your skin and get rid of the week’s oil buildup.
Best For
Oily skin types that get congested easily and like the feeling of a deep pore detox.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Makes skin feel incredibly smooth after use
- The cooling effect is very refreshing
- Helps clear out visible blackheads on the nose
- A large 6oz tube is very affordable
Cons:
- Peeling it off can sting a little on sensitive areas
- Takes 15-20 minutes to dry completely
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love how smooth and soft this face mask made my skin feel!!! It was super easy to apply with my face mask tool and it felt cool and refreshing on my skin!”
Customer Review: “My face feels soft, glowy, and dewy. I’m trying to fix my complexion and this quality peel was just what I needed.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cleanser For Oily Skin
Essential Factors We Consider
When you are looking for a wash, you must check the ingredients. For oily skin, things like salicylic acid (BHA), niacinamide, and clay are your best friends. They help soak up oil. You also want to avoid heavy oils or waxes that can clog your pores. We always look for terms like “non-comedogenic” on the bottle. This means the product won’t cause blackheads.
Budget Planning
You do not need to spend fifty dollars on a face wash. Many of the best options are under fifteen dollars. Because you use this every day, look for a large bottle with a pump. This makes it easy to use and gives you the most for your money. Spending more usually gets you special botanical extracts or unique Korean skincare technology.
Final Thoughts
The best cleanser for oily skin should leave you feeling refreshed. If your skin feels like it is “tight” or “cracking” after you wash, that cleanser is too strong. Your goal is balance. Clean away the shine, but keep the healthy moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many times a day should I wash my oily skin?
A: Usually, twice a day is perfect. Wash once in the morning to remove oil from the night, and once before bed to remove dirt and sweat from the day.
Q: Should I use hot or cold water?
A: Use lukewarm water. Hot water can actually irritate your skin and cause it to produce even more oil to protect itself.
Q: Do I still need moisturizer if my skin is oily?
A: Yes! If you skip moisturizer, your skin might get dehydrated. This makes it create more grease to stay soft. Use a light, oil-free gel moisturizer instead.
Q: Can I use an oily skin wash if I have dry patches?
A: You should look for a “balancing” or “combination” skin cleanser like Cetaphil or CeraVe Foaming. These are gentler on those dry areas.
Choosing the right wash can change your entire skin routine. Start with one of our top picks today and enjoy a clear, matte look all day long. Click the links above to grab your favorite from Amazon!