11 Best Hydrating Cleansers Make Washing Your Face Feel a Lot Less Drying
How to Choose the Right Hydrating Cleanser for Dry Skin
Our own Dr. Jessica Farahi, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at SKN Dermatology, was recently featured in Prevention magazine to share her expert advice on choosing the best hydrating cleansers for dry skin. With so many cleansers promising softer, smoother, more hydrated skin, understanding which ingredients to look for — and which formulas to avoid — can make all the difference.
Key Takeaways from the Prevention Feature
Look for gentle, hydrating ingredients:
Ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and other humectants and emollients can help support the skin’s moisture barrier while cleansing.
These ingredients help attract or retain moisture and can leave skin feeling comfortable rather than tight or stripped.
Avoid overly harsh formulas:
Cleansers that strip too much oil from the skin can contribute to dryness and irritation. For dry or sensitive skin, a gentle, fragrance-free formula is often a better choice.Pay attention to how your skin feels:
Your cleanser should leave your skin feeling clean and refreshed, not tight, dry, or uncomfortable. If your skin feels stripped immediately after washing, it may be a sign that your cleanser is too harsh.
Tips from Dr. Farahi
Choose a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser designed to cleanse without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Look for hydrating ingredients, including ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.
Avoid cleansers that leave your skin feeling tight or overly dry after washing.
Remember that cleansing is just one part of maintaining healthy skin. Follow with a moisturizer to help replenish and maintain hydration.
Bottom Line
The right cleanser should do more than simply remove dirt, oil, and makeup. For dry skin, choosing a gentle, hydrating formula can help maintain the skin barrier while keeping skin comfortable and moisturized. If you’re unsure which cleanser is right for your skin type, the team at SKN Dermatology can help you build a personalized skincare routine based on your skin’s needs and goals.