Dermatologists Say These Are the Best Face Washes for Rosacea (2024)

Rosacea is a condition that causes flushing or redness for a long period, often on the face. It could also cause enlarged blood vessels and small pus-filled bumps, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some people experience flares, where symptoms come and go, and the products you use can play a big role in this. That’s why it’s important to use the best face wash for rosacea, as these are gentle enough for those with the skin condition, while still cleansing and fortifying.

Meet the experts: Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, CA; and Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York

“People with rosacea tend to have sensitive skin that can be easily irritated in response to use of certain products or ingredients. The underlying inflammation in the skin due to rosacea may cause people to feel a burning, stinging, or tingling sensation when they use various products,” says Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, CA. “Typically, I recommend using products formulated specifically for rosacea or products that are made for sensitive skin, contain fewer ingredients, or contain ingredients that can help hydrate or soothe the skin.”

Ahead, find the best face washes for rosacea, including drugstore options, ones for sensitive skin, oily skin, and more.

A primary concern for those with rosacea is redness. While a cleanser can’t conceal discoloration, it can help target the cause of it. “This face wash is specifically formulated for redness-prone skin, containing soothing ingredients such as allantoin and hydrating ingredients like glycerin. It offers a light foaming lather that gently but effectively removes dirt and impurities,” explains Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.

Dermatologists have been recommending Vanicream for some time thanks to its gentle formula that’s ideal for sensitive skin types. “This cleanser helps to get rid of makeup, dirt, and excess oil but is free of common irritants found in other cleansers such as fragrance, dyes, parabens, formaldehyde, and other preservatives, making it a great option for those with rosacea and sensitive skin. It’s gentle enough to be used every day and can remove makeup and excess oil, without drying the skin out,” says Dr. Garshick.

“This cleanser is formulated with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to hydrate the skin. It is fragrance-free and good for people with sensitive skin and is widely available over the counter or online,” says Dr. Luke. It’s a favorite for those without rosacea too. I have a sensitive, reactive complexion, and love this face wash. I use it at night and it also effectively removes my makeup.

Dr. Luke recommends this pick from Aveeno. “This cleanser is formulated with oat and feverfew to help calm, hydrate, and gently cleanse the skin. This cleanser is non-comedogenic and made without dyes, fragrance, or alcohols, and is a good affordable option that is available in most drug stores or online,” she says.

Another cleanser recommended by dermatologists for those with sensitive skin, this Cetaphil option is great for those with rosacea, according to Dr. Luke. “This cleanser is pH balanced and formulated with zinc to reduce oil on the surface of the skin. It is also non-comedogenic and contains glycerin to help hydrate skin,” she says.

“This milky cleanser is formulated with glycerin to gently clean the skin without stripping it as well as thermal spa water to soothe the skin,” Dr. Luke notes. The brand also notes the product’s ability to remove waterproof makeup, which is notoriously difficult to come off—which can be a problem for sensitive, already-red skin.

CeraVe is beloved by people with all sorts of skin conditions, rosacea included. “This cleanser is great for sensitive skin but is also very hydrating. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid which help replenish the skin’s barrier and draws moisture into the skin. This cleanser is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic,” explains Dr. Luke.

“Specifically formulated for those with redness-prone skin, this cleanser is gentle...and helps to remove makeup and impurities without drying,” explains Dr. Garshick. “In addition to probiotic technology, it contains squalane and glycerin, keeping the skin soft and smooth.”

“Those with rosacea should avoid heavy fragrance or oils that can trigger skin sensitivity. It is also best to avoid drying alcohols, harsh soaps, abrasive scrubs, or ingredients that may be irritating such as benzoyl peroxide and exfoliating acids,” Dr. Garshick says.

We spoke with Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, CA; and Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York for their recommendations on the best face wash for rosacea. We also scoured countless online reviews and ratings to find the best options.

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.