18 New Cleansers to Immediately Level Up Your Skincare Game in 2022
Washing your face is the first—and thus, perhaps most important—step in your skincare routine. It sets the foundation for all the steps that come after it, whether you love a multi-step regimen or you jump right to moisturizer and call it a day (or night). Crucial as this step is, sometimes we need a new product to change things up; sometimes our skin goes through changes, sometimes it’s us that change—whatever the reason for the product breakup may be, we all go through it.
But don’t worry. I’m here for you in your time of skincare need. There are tons of new face cleansers that have recently launched, so I gathered them all in one place so you can find your new fave just in time for a fresh start in the New Year. From nourishing cleansing balms and oils to oil-free gel face washes, there’s a product for every single skin type and concern. Read on to see the latest in cleansers, courtesy of old-favorite brands and some up-and-comers alike.
For those who need the gentlest of formulas, this milky cleanser is almost like applying an extra layer of moisturizer. Simply apply with clean fingers or a cotton round, massage into skin, and remove the excess with a tissue—no water or toweling off required.
No need for a separate makeup remover with this cleanser, which is designed to get rid of every speck of mascara, foundation, and eye makeup. And although the citrusy ingredients leave skin feeling extra clean, it also contains ceramides for added skincare benefits.
This clean cosmetics brand is getting into skincare as well, launching an EWG-verified line of four essential products, including—of course—a cleanser. The gel formula is made with aloe, broccoli-seed oil, and other plant-based ingredients and is safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
One use of this powder exfoliant and you’ll see why it's gained a cult following. Mix the rice powder–based formula with water and it turns a gorgeous color before it smooths skin without being too harsh. It also comes with a tiny spoon inspired by traditional spice spoons, which helps deliver just the right amount of product each time.
The truth is not all of us need cleansers with fancy ingredients and bells and whistles. This cleanser is designed for those people (and many others). More important than what’s inside is what isn’t—sulfates, parabens, dyes, and fragrances—and it’s gentle enough for all skin types.
Up next: 7 Things Beauty Editors Will Never Do to Their Skin in Winter (and 8 They Will)
Lindy Segal is a freelance writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. She's been in editorial for over eight years as a social media manager and writer covering beauty, fashion, and lifestyle at Glamour and People. These days, in addition to Who What Wear, you can see her byline at places like Harper's Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Ipsy, and WeWork. Both a skincare obsessive and a minimalist, she keeps her routine short, sweet, and effective—and she doesn't go a day without sunscreen. She's also deeply passionate about sustainability, and she strives to recommend products she truly believes are worth the investment.
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