Look, we’re not saying that your cleanser needs to be the fanciest bottle on the shelf – but if your skin leans reactive, that bargain buy from the supermarket may be doing more harm than good. While those with skin that plays nice with most formulas can get away with a simple face wash, others need a little more TLC. Let’s be honest, if your canvas isn’t clean, any serums and actives won’t have a chance to properly perform. To help you find the perfect match, we’ve rounded up some industry-favourite cleansers for every skin type.
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Rebecca Sylvester, Probiotic Cleansing Gel, HKD$329
This probiotic-rich gel cleanser balances luxury and function. Packed with 11 amino acids, it sweeps away daily grime while nourishing the skin barrier, smoothing fine lines, and quenching dehydration. High-quality actives sourced from Taiwan keep this formula free of parabens and common allergens, while fermented rice and natural sugars are added for gentle moisture and exfoliation as a nod to traditional Japanese methods .
Helps with: Dullness, dehydration, and fine lines.
Skin Need, 01B Light Cleanser, HKD$398
A gentle foaming cleanser, this pampering and purifying product is filled with revitalising and anti-oxidising ingredients. This brightening cleanser is infused with Sweet Orange Essential Oils and not only tenderly removes your skin’s impurities, but also preserves your skin’s natural oils.
Helps with: Dull and distressed skin.
BMF, Triple Action Cleanser, HKD$350
Fighting against troublesome acne breakouts and unclogging pores of sebum buildup, the Triple Action Cleanser uses natural plant extracts to target acne-causing bacteria. Meanwhile its oil-soluble Glycolic Acid and Salicyclic Acid removes dead skin cells, leaving your skin refreshed and pimple-free. Non-drying and gentle, this BMF cleanser also controls sebum production while reducing skin inflammation.
Helps with: Acne, inflammation, and clogged pores.
CosRx, Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, HKD$79.2
A cult favourite from an iconic brand, this gel cleanser is a must-have for sensitive or acne-prone skin. With a pH sitting between 5.0 and 6.0, this product mirrors your skin’s natural acidity (4.7 to 5.75), making it perfect for gently cleansing without stripping.
Helps with: Sensitivity, acne, and barrier care.
Skin 1004, Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil, HKD$115.35
If your skin has a bit of a temper and gets easily irritated, Centella is your new best friend. This non-comedogenic cleansing oil is packed with calming ingredients that work beautifully as a first step in double cleansing – a process especially important for removing makeup and sunscreen.
Helps with: Sensitivity, dry patches, and cystic acne.
Suisai, Beauty Clear Powder Wash, HKD$130
An underrated gem and Japanese skincare’s gate-kept little secret, these tiny capsules of powder contain enzymes that foam up to deeply cleanse pores and smooth texture. On the drier side? Best to keep this as a once-a-week treat. Got oily skin? A lovely daily-use option to speed run your blackhead purge.
Helps with: Blackheads, oily skin, and textured skin.
Vichy, Pureté Thermale 3-in-1 One Step Cleanser, HKD$184
When it comes to dry, irritated skin, French skincare just gets it. France’s water leans on the hard side due to its high mineral content, which can make hair and skin more prone to dryness, so trust – they’re veterans in this field. Vichy’s dermatologist-backed formulas are known for hydrating while being oh-so-gentle. This multitasker cleanses, tones, and even removes makeup – ideal for dry, sensitive skin on rushed evenings.
Helps with: Dryness, sensitivity, and saving time.
Mustela, Certified Organic Micellar Water (No Rinse), HKD$133.5
When your skin is acting up, simplicity is key. Made for newborns (yes, really) and mums, this ultra-gentle micellar water soothes and cleanses without rinsing – great for flare-ups or recovery days. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, this is a safe pick that won’t trigger any nausea or headaches.
Helps with: Allergies, irritation, and ultra-sensitive skin (and noses).
The Ordinary, Squalane Cleanser, HKD$91
No-frills and fuss-free, this cleanser uses squalane – a moisture-locking oil – to gently remove impurities while keeping your skin barrier happy. Affordable, efficient, and perfect if you’re looking for a basic cleanser that does exactly what it needs to do.
Helps with: Dryness, barrier repair, and minimal routines.
Banila Co, Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original, HKD$78
A holy grail for a reason, this balm melts away waterproof makeup and gunk without irritation. Massage it in and you’ll literally feel sebum dissolve – it’s grossly satisfying in the best way possible.
Helps with: Makeup removal, and clogged pores.
Beauty of Joseon, Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser, HKD$104
Gentle, foamy, and lightly scented, this cleanser is a crowd-pleaser across many skin types. It never strips, feels lush, and has a subtle green-plum scent that won’t offend sensitive noses.
Helps with: All skin types, and daily cleansing.
Tatcha, The Rice Wash Skin-Softening Cleanser, HKD$313.88
A luxe staple and beauty guru favourite for good reason, Tatcha’s creamy rice cleanser brightens, smooths, and hydrates with every use. Great for anyone in need of a skin-pampering ritual, this skin-softener is especially ideal for dry-combination skin. A little goes a long way too, so a bottle of this will last you for a good while to come.
Helps with: Dryness, texture, luminosity.
Editor’s Note: All listed prices were correct at the time of publication.
Rachel Tang
Rachel Tang is the Social Media Manager and a contributing writer at Friday Club., where she combines her expertise in PR and Marketing with a passion for storytelling. She began writing for a media platform early in her career, which sparked a love for storytelling that still drives her work today. With a deep passion for fashion, music, and all things pretty, Rachel is always on the lookout for the next best thing – and she’s quick to rave about it to those around her.
