If Your Skin Is All Red And Dry, It Could Be Your Face Wash

Finding the best face wash can seem daunting you have sensitive skin. You need a cleanser that will do a thorough job of cleaning without turning your complexion into a dry, red, super-irritated mess.

Wondering what sensitive skin means, exactly? "Sensitive skin refers to burning and stinging of the skin when you use personal care products,” explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. “The wrong skincare products easily disrupt the skin barrier in people with sensitive skin, leading to microscopic cracks, loss of hydration, and inflammation.”

Meet our experts: Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, Miriam Vega Gonzalez, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia

So what’s the best way to avoid irritating your face if you've got sensitive skin? In general, Dr. Zeichner recommends sticking to gentle, soap-free cleansers if you can (since true soap can be harsh and drying). He also suggests you steer clear of exfoliating products (i.e. anything that says brightening or has active ingredients like glycolic acid is a no-go for you). These “can cause more harm than good,” says Dr. Zeichner.

Instead, try any one of these 10 best face washes for sensitive skin. That's right! Keep reading for the most gentle cleansers out there, according to experts.