Best Cleansers and Exfoliators
Sand and Sky Brilliant Skin
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I ordered a couple of products including a headband, received a completely different headband (in style and function) and I emailed Sand and Sky on… Read more
the day I received it with photos. Weeks go by I don't hear anything. I send a follow up email chasing an answer on how to get the right item sent to me and return the other one. I hear nothing.
Then I receive their "leave us a review" email, so I leave a one star review with exactly what happened. Surprisingly they respond to my Review very quickly saying "they never got my emails and they're so sorry to have let me down, they can't wait to help resolve this" then proceed to provide the exact same email address I contacted TWICE.
I then go to see if I can respond to their comment to say this, just to see they haven't approved my review for the website, so they've filtered it instead, makes me wonder how many other bad reviews they've not published to keep their ratings high.
They don't even have any other headbands listed on their website of the one I received. I did a google search, of the photo I took of the headband I received and it's nowhere, so are they just sending these random ones out hoping nobody will care?
I included photos of the correspondence as proof they just blatantly ignored my emails.
Won't be shopping here again and certainly wouldn't recommend them, what if you have a reaction to their skincare products? Do they ignore those emails too?
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SkinB5 Extra Strength Acne Control Tablets x 120 – I was taking one tablet at first, but didn't see enough improvement so I started taking two tablets a day. Now my skin has returned to my normal… Read more
self, with only the usual break-out here and there, but what surprised me the most is that I don't get sick as often too. My entire family got sick with the cold, but when I took two tablets a day, I never got sick from them and that's the first for me!
Real-u Beauty Bundle
Very nice product, really help my skin smooth and the texture is mild and not too strong great for sensitive skin.
Purely Byron The Divine Collection Cleansing Oil 🏆 2026
This cleansing oil smells and feels like a spa treatment! One that I look forward to using. It has a lovely natural spa scent and leaves my skin… Read more
feeling soft and hydrated. It's a gentle moisturising cleanser and does not leave any residue. I would highly recommend this! I received this product from Purely Byron to review.
Purely Byron The Divine Collection Exfoliating Mask 🏆 2026
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If I want to treat my skin to some top quality pampering, this is my new go-to! It feels so luxurious on the skin and I can instantly feel my face… Read more
muscles relaxing when I apply this. It gives a gentle exfoliation which has evened out my skin texture really well. I love that I can apply this when I am at home, but still get spa like results every time. Gorgeous product! I received this product from Purely Byron to review.
Real-u Cleanse
Not work it – I have had adult acne for years due mainly to hormones. I started using it because I wanted to stop using the contraceptive pill to control my skin… Read more
flare-ups. This product made completely no difference and I have been better off using the Cetaphil from the chemist. My advice: don't bother with anything if it is not dermatologically recommended. Cetaphil is recommended by dermatologists. And also the founder is not a dermatologist so has no place being in the acne space.
E45
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It was amazing cleared up my dry skin in a day !!!!!!!!!!!!! Show details
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Lovely product – Not too harsh and leaves your skin feeling great. I have sensitive skin and it works well on mine. Show details
Sukin Cream Cleanser
I loooove this face cleanser. I’m 60+ years young, have sensitive skin & I have had NO allergic reaction. The crème cleanser is soft & silky on my skin & leaves my face feeling clean, smooth & soft. Show details
Clarins Beauty Flash Balm
Preferred the old formula – Having used and loved the old formula for years I was slightly shocked when they changed it. Still good product but it no longer has a nice fragrance and on my skin it's a bit sticky Show details
Skinstitut Glycolic Scrub 14%
LOVE this scrub – Absolutely love this face scrub! I purchased my first tube approx 3 years ago and it literally took me that long to finish it (I use once a week… Read more
maybe twice if I need). You don't need much and it goes a long way. The new tube looks different as they've changed their packaging but the formula feels exactly the same. Highly recommend!
Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel
Will continue to buy – Great cleansing gel for sensitive skin! Bottle lasts for some time! Show details
Dermal Therapy Australia 🏆 2026
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I have a slight Dermal therapy obsession and cannot recommend them enough. I have face care, body care and hair care and they have all exceeded expectations leaving me with beautiful skin and hair Show details
Pinetarsol Solution
Pintarsol not mixing poor quality control – I have used Pinetarsol solution for over 10 years and have noticed a problem with the product over the last 6 months. I have noted that in various… Read more
size bottles that the solution has not fully mixed. Large lumps of black sticky material come out with the mixed solution. This sticky black material is very hard to wash off the skin. I am now reduced to running the new Pintarsol solution through a filter material to remove these black sticky lumps. Poor quality control.
Formula 10.0.6 Mud Masks
Love it – This is my fav brand to use. I use the Berry awake, Pores be pure, and the Glow one. I never felt a burning sensation before, only a nice refreshing tingling one on the berry awake, and i just feel good about my skin now! Show details
Essano Rosehip Oil
Love it – I have been using this oil and most of the facial products by essano for over a year now because they’re so good! I get constant compliments that my… Read more
skin looks great, and my face feels so soft and hydrated which is coming from someone who works in front of a huge oven all day. I love the oil because it reduces wrinkles and is so good in concentrated areas on my face that need a little extra attention. I HIGHLY recommend using this oil and any of the facial products this company offers.
Sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser
Its only good for hand wash. Dried my skin out really bad. It's been sent to my kids bathroom to use to wash their hands with. Or perhaps I'll use it a stain remover.
Best I've ever had – My skin is oily and I have mild break outs. This cut back on the amount of dead skin I have on my face and helped exfoliate very nicely. My face… Read more
cleared up after a week of using the product. I cannot get enough. It leaves my face feeling very soft.
Some people mentioned in a couple reviews that it tore up the users face. While the soap is extremely coarse due to the pumice, a light handed circular motion for application will suffice. If I scrubbed with a heavy hand, my face would most definitely be torn up. Find out the pressure that works for your face.
I am looking for an every day face cleanser by them which does not contain Salicylic Acid. Due to the fact this scrub does not contain Salicylic Acid, is my reasoning behind why the product works so well.
Clinique Clarifying Lotion
did not dry up my skin – This is an excellent product in helping my acne-prone skin get better. It didn't break me out and keep the moisture in place while not creating excessive sebum. I've had a good experience with this one! Show details
Great multitasker with some brilliant ingredients – I bought this recently on Priceline as I was curious about the old cold cleanser routine. You apply it onto a dry face and massage it in and then… Read more
wipe it clean with a warm facecloth. You need to rinse and repeat until your face is clean. Done this way, it removes makeup, cleans, steams, exfoliates and moisturises your face. It really does cover several steps of a night-time routine. I found it did bring a few zits to the surface initially but then my skin got better. I also use a tiny amount as a moisturiser on weekends because the ingredients are really lovely.
Lush Angels on Bare Skin
never again – I brought this product a few days ago, who was recommended by a person who works at Lush. I gave it a try, and GUESS WHAT. My face was perfectly… Read more
clear before trying the product, (had no acne, no pimples, NOTHING), the ONLY reason why I bought this product was to hydrate my face. The first day I tried this product went great, had no problem, made my face soft, glowy, and hydrated it. However, the next day, it didn't go that way. IT MADE ME BREAKOUT. I started to have pimples all over my FACE, and I still have some at this moment. I do not recommend this product to ANYONE, you're free to give it a try, but just be CAREFUL. never . AGAIN .
Sukin Revitalising Facial Scrub
Magical facial scrub – All are great, these Sukin facial scrub really removed dead skin been using it for months and happy with the result. Show details
Ego QV Face Gentle Face Cleanser
Hmmm not sure about this one – My skin didn’t like it. This cleanser states it’s for sensitive skin but it contains sodium laureth sulfate which can be very irritating for people with sensitive skin??? Doesn’t make sense. Show details
Dermalogica Precleanse
Best cleanser for makeup & debris! – I only found out about Dermalogica's Precleanse when I started learning Beauty Therapy at Tafe. I never knew about double cleansing before then and… Read more
ever since, I've always used Precleanse before using another cleanser. It removes all makeup, dirt and debris super easy and allows my second cleanser to work perfectly. I haven't had any adverse reactions and will never stop using this! It's the best!
La Roche Posay Effaclar
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Really great for break outs and preventing them. Keeps you hydrated with out the oil. Show details
The Body Shop Seaweed
Burning sensation – Burns my skin and gave me acne too. Will not buy again
Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray
Love, love, love this product!! – I love most of the Avene products but this one is my favourite!! I use it for everything, it’s great after removing make up, after sun exposure, after using face serum and the list gos on . Show details
Best ever – This is the best exfoliator I have ever used, and I have used a ton! Although its pricey a little goes a long way, stock up when they release the… Read more
large size tubes for the regular price. Skin is left baby smooth every time but the scrub itself is very gentle. Fragrance is heavy but nice, and because it is washed away quickly it doesn't irritate. Top product. Very gentle but very effective Pricey, lots of fragrance
Skin Clarity Range
The best, the only thing that works – Literally the only product that works to keep my acne at bay plus keep my skin supple and smooth. I kid you not. I’m gutted I can’t find this product anywhere anymore. Show details
ASAP Range
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Don’t have an issue with the actual product but rather the packaging. Using the serums and eye lift the pump stops working making you think it’s… Read more
empty, on removing the lid found to still have plenty which I had to remove with a small spatula. I contacted ASAP directly but only got a generated reply.
Jump to:
An effective skincare routine is important to your confidence, health and happiness. With more varieties of cleansers and exfoliators available on the market currently than ever before, where do you begin to start when going about choosing one?
Well, there is no one-size-fits-all in this case, the best facial cleanser and exfoliator for you depends on your skin type, goals and how simple or luxurious you want your skincare routine to be.
Types of face washing products
Face wash
Many people think cleansers and face washes are synonymous as they both clean the skin, but there are differences between them. Face washes are the most effective at removing debris from deeper layers of the skin and cleansing the pores - they are similar to body soap and foam when being used.
They are not necessary for everyday use, however those with very oily skin or acne can benefit from using face washes especially geared for them, often with salicylic acid.
Cleansers are much more gentle and effective at removing oils and makeup and can be used on an everyday basis. For a deep clean, you can use both in tandem - using a cleanser first to rid the face of impurities and then a face wash to get deeper into the skin.
Cleansers
Cleansers come in a host of varieties and forms. From most abrasive to lightweight, they are as follows:
Exfoliating cleansers: Come in two forms: physically exfoliating with small abrasive balls or chemically exfoliating. They are not to be used long-term on an everyday basis as it can irritate. Suitable for oily and combination skin.
Bar cleansers: Often look similar to bar soaps and are eco-friendly and travel-safe. Depending on the formula, they can be very drying for the skin, however the newest innovations claim to be more gentle. Suitable for oily skin.
Powder cleansers: Turn from a powder into cream, gel or foam after adding water and also have a gentle exfoliating effect based on rice starch or chickpea powder. They often come in sachets and are easily transportable. Suitable for oily and combination skin.
Foaming cleansers: Contain SLS to provide their foaming effect, they usually rid the skin of all dirt and oils but can be irritating to sensitive skin. Suitable for oily skin and combination skin.
Clay cleansers: Turn from clay into a mousse-like consistency and work in a similar way to clay masks by cleaning pores and absorbing excess oil. Suitable for oily and combination skin.
Gel cleansers: Give a deep cleanse while still providing some moisture. Some may also contain SLS as they can foam when in water. They are good for oily and combination skin.
Oil cleansers: Should be applied on dry skin as opposed to wet skin and then gently wiped or rinsed off. They use water-soluble oils to attract oil and debris and are suitable for all skin types.
Cleansing balms: Very similar to oil cleansers and should be applied on dry skin, but have a different consistency in the tube which melts into an oily consistency after application. They are effective at removing makeup while still being nourishing and are suitable for all skin types.
Lotion cleansers: Often labelled as ‘milk’ or ‘cream’ cleansers and are the least harsh of the cleanser types. They are non-foaming and use botanical oils and other moisturising ingredients to cleanse and nourish the skin. They are suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Exfoliators and scrubs
Exfoliators are great to use 1-3 times a week to remove any build up of dead skin cells and smoothen the skin. They come in the form of facial exfoliators, exfoliating masks, body scrubbers and lip scrubbers etc. They work by unclogging pores and scraping away dead skin cells. They can improve the appearance of your skin in many ways, contribute to collagen renewal and improve the health of your skin as long as they are not used too often.
Scrubs can come in the form of oils, creams and clays which are chemical-based and break down the dead skin chemically. Alternatively, you can buy physical exfoliators which do the job manually by using grains of sugar, walnut shells or apricot pits etc to rub against the skin and loosen the dead skin cells.
There are many applicator tools that can be used to achieve this purpose such as exfoliating brushes, gloves or sponges.
Micellar Water
Unlike cleansers, this method doesn’t involve rinsing. You can simply wipe off the residue with a cotton pad, a facecloth or cleansing wipe. Micellar water uses oil molecules called micelles to attract dirt, oil and makeup away from the skin.
Because it is alcohol-free, it can be used on sensitive areas and is recommended for removing stubborn eye or lip makeup. It is suitable for all skin types but should be used in conjunction with a cleanser and not exclusively, as it’s not strong enough to provide an overall clean. It’s recommended to use before or after a cleanser.
Another convenient alternative is a face wipe, which similarly helps remove makeup and dirt without the need for rinsing. It is a great transportable short-term alternative to a cleanser but not a replacement.
How do face cleansers work?
Products that wash the face (and body) contain surfactants - little agents that are hydrophilic at the top and hydrophobic at the tail. Basically, their tails attract all the dirt and grime on your face to become things called micelles, which then get washed out as you rinse your face.
How drying your face cleanser is depends on the charge of your surfactants. Negatively charged surfactants (anionic) such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) are more effective at stripping the dirt and oils on your face than those surfactants with a mixed charge (amphoteric) or a positive charge (cationic). Often, you’ll find the latter used in cleansers for sensitive skin.
Can I just clean my face with water?
You could, and while it can feel refreshing, it won't remove dirt, excess oils and makeup. Even if you don’t use makeup, the general pollution in the air can build up on your face along with sweat and dead skin cells. It can be beneficial for everyone to incorporate a gentle face cleanser once a night into their routine for healthy, shining skin.
Best ingredients for your skin type
Everyone has a different skin type and different skins tolerate different ingredients. To find the cleanser most compatible with your skin, consider finding one with the suitable ingredients:
Dry skin: botanical oils such as jojoba, avocado, coconut, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, antioxidants, plant butters, lactic acid
Sensitive skin: aloe, Jojoba oil, green tea, oatmeal, chamomile. Avoid: alcohol-based, SLS & fragrant cleansers
Oily skin: clay, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, vitamin C
Acne-prone skin: salicylic acid, glycolic acid, tea tree oil & other antiseptic astringents, retinol/vitamin A
If you’re lucky enough to have a normal skin type, you have a wider variety to choose from, but the seasons can also affect how your skin behaves and you might find it beneficial to use a more clarifying cleanser in summer and a gentle one in winter.
Recommended face washing routine
How many times a day should I wash my face?
It is recommended that you wash your face at least once a night to purify the skin from the toxins of the busy day by using a cleanser.
For those who wish to do so, the morning can be a good time to use a face wash or exfoliator to get a deep cleanse. If you have been working out or wearing heavy make, you can also wash thrice but be careful not to overdo it as that could lead to irritation and breakouts.
Can face cleansers cause pimples?
Cleansers, when used correctly, shouldn’t cause breakouts. However, common mistakes such as scrubbing too hard, using a cleanser that is too clarifying for your skin type, using extremely hot water, using too much product and washing your face too many times can strip your skin of its natural oils which can lead to excess sebum production and blockage. The breaks and tears in the skin from over scrubbing can allow bacteria to enter. For that reason, it’s important to listen to your skin and choose your cleanser accordingly.
Face washing best practices
Using warm, body-temperature water is the best course of action as it opens up the pores. Hot water is often an irritant for sensitive skin and cold water does not open up the pores as effectively. Using clean hands, place a 5 cent coin-sized amount of product into your palm and rub in circular motions around the face. Be careful not to scrub too hard. Rinse as required and pat the face dry with a clean towel.
Post-cleansing routine
There are many things you can do after cleansing to ensure that you get the best results for your skin.
Double cleansing & exfoliation
For those who want a thorough clean, double cleansing can be an option depending on the two cleansers used. It’s recommended to use a combination of a clarifying cleanser with a gentle, hydrating one to provide the best results.
It is also possible to use a gentle cleanser followed by an exfoliant for an extra-deep clean.
Toner
If cleansing just once, you can use a toner (or micellar water as a softer alternative) to rid the skin of any leftover impurities, brighten the skin and tighten the pores.
Moisturising
It’s important afterwards to follow up with a moisturiser, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Because your pores have been opened, the product will have space to work on your skin.
Final thoughts
Here are some things you should consider before buying the right cleanser for you:
Value for Money: Many high-end products do the same thing as drugstore ones but under the guise of fancy packaging. It’s useful to see how others rate the product in this category and if the product is worth the price tag.
Ingredients: By checking the ingredients, you can help figure out if this product will cause any irritation or be right for your skin.
Ease of Application: There are a variety of forms of cleansers and choosing the one that is the most convenient for you is important. Would you like it to be in the form of a transportable bar, micellar water without rinsing or a foaming cleanser?
Smell: If you’re into smelling a particular way, this could be an important factor to consider. This also rings true if you have sensitive skin or would generally prefer a non-fragranced product.
A great cleanser is the bedrock to achieving healthy skin and the first step you should take before any moisturisers, exfoliators or makeup can work their magic on your skin. The key to choosing a good cleanser depends on your daily routine and skin type and can be aided by informative reviews from others who have tried it.
You can read the highest-ranking cleanser and exfoliator reviews on our website today to help you make the best choice.
Hey there Briseyda, Thank you for taking the time to leave… Read more