Many of us know how tricky some skin types can be to manage, which is why we’ve enlisted the help of experts to find the best cleansers for combination skin. After all, (speaking from experience here) your skin will require particular products to manage your skin texture and complexion. Buying the wrong product for combination skin can often lead to breakouts, redness and no progress in the slightest. The struggle is real, but we’ve got you. Think: balance.
Some of you may be thinking: what is combination skin? Luckily, esteemed dermatologist Dr Hiba Injibar, founder of Dermasurge Clinic (based on Harley Street, London), has given us a comprehensive definition. Most people have combination skin, she claims, with the skin exhibiting multiple characteristics or has characteristics of more than one skin type on different areas of the face. In many cases, the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) will likely be oily, whilst other areas may be dry or normal. As such, she suggests those with combination skin to address the singular needs - over one blanket approach to the entire face.
Best cleanser for combination skin at a glance A good cleanser is “essential” when treating combination skin, says Grace Ferns, Beauty Expert and Senior Buyer at BEAUTY BAY. As combination skin is prone to impurities and breakouts, you’ll need to find products that hydrate without irritation. Grace adds that formulas should “effectively remove makeup and dirt while preserving your skin’s natural moisture barrier”.
So, what ingredients can help balance oils, refine pores and keep our skin clear? I cover all of this and more in my buyer’s guide below – complete with plenty of common FAQs about combination skin types and advice from our experts. I learnt a lot of things about my skin type and was lucky enough to test many of the products myself, so you have my honest thoughts. How to treat combination skin, below...
Best cleansers for combination skin Take a dip into our gentle, balancing cleanser breakdown with first-step oil-based cleansers and second-step water-based options for those struggling with a few different skin issues at once. Good luck (!)
1. REN Clean Skincare Evercalm™ Gentle Cleansing Gel
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best cleanser for combination skinExpert rating:4.5
Closer OnlinePrice: £10.00View offer
Infused with some unfamiliar (yet fabulous) ingredients, I must say that the REN Clean Skincare Evercalm™ Gentle Cleansing Gel may be one of my favourites. Its been formulated for sensitive, oily, and combination skin types, and it gently removes any dirt, impurities, and excess oil with ease. What makes this a winner? Its so gentle - and left my skin feeling super soft and balanced.
The star ingredients of this REN Cleansing Gel (which suits my skin to a tee) are the plant-sourced power of Prebiotic Extracts - for repair, maintenance and protection from sensitivity and even flare-ups, Beta-Glucan - found in bakers yeast for a soothing/calmed visage, and Neroli Oil - which gives this pick its irresistible citrusy scent. I really love how it smells and feels on my skin. Gels are perfect for oily and combination skin. Theyre light, refreshing and less likely to be non-comedogenic.
All you need is an almond-sized amount, which makes this product cost-effective if you choose to give it a go. REN recommends gently massaging it into your damp face and using a cloth or reusable cotton round with warm water to rinse off. Ive rinsed it off with and without a cloth - and saw very little difference in my results. After a gentle cleanse, my hormonal skin feels smoother than ever - with a noticeable reduction in my redness (which is the bane of my existence).
I dont get as many blocked pores, and my skin texture has definitely improved. It dries out my skin a little, which is a relief for my oily t-zone but not so much for my especially dry jawline. To remedy this, I follow with a hydrating vitamin E toner and/or hyaluronic acid serum. One con Id better mention is that it contains some linalool/parfum, which can be an irritant for sensitive skin
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsFormulated for sensitive, oily or combination skin - protects against flare upsGently removes daily dirt, excess oil and impurities - but, it's super gentleInfused with strengthening Beta-Glucan and Prebiotic Extracts to support your skinMy skin was left feeling fresh-feeling, softer and not stripped of all moistureConsDoes contain parfum/fragrance - which may not suit all sensitive skin typesDry parts of the skin will benefit from a hydrating toner or serum after
| Important ingredients | Pre-biotic extract, beta-glucan, neroli oil. |
| Quantity | 150 ml |
| Suitable for | Sensitive skin - for the whole family |
| Step | One - this gel cleanser to be removed with a cloth or reusable cotton round |
| Benefits | Refreshes, rebalances, calms |
| Vegan? | Cruelty-free |
Budget pick
Beauty BayPrice: £8.50
View offer Another gel option that wed recommend for budget-conscious shoppers. If you prefer to avoid the premium brands, the Beauty Bay Vitamin C + Niacinamide Cleansing Gel is your new bestie. For the ultimate cleanse, BEAUTY BAY recommends this pick, which is vegan, cruelty-free and suitable for all skin types. And the reviewers love it, too, granting it an impressive average 4.6/5 star rating. Many users love this cleanser, calling it their go-to product and describing it as perfect.
We love that this pick has been enriched with vitamin C and niacinamide - a powerful combination which will help your skin even out, appear brighter - and just give it an overall boost. Users confirm that their skin is left soft, smooth and hydrated. Others recommend it for combination and blemish-prone skin, as it has not dried out their skin or caused irritation, and it has refined skin texture over time.
Luxurious and refreshing, this BEAUTY BAY gel transforms into a foamy texture as you cleanse, hydrating and moisturising as you go. Squeaky clean (!) And, though its a water-based step-two cleanser, its said to act as a double cleanse for some users, which is a surprise. It lathers well and effectively removes makeup and oil-based products without leaving a residue.
However, one user found it a gentle cleanse but a little drying for their combination skin (but theres no specification of what issues they struggle with) and another preferred the previous version of this product. Overall, its a nice-smelling and pleasantly foaming cleanser. Not only is it loved by users at BEAUTY BAY, but its totally affordable if youre not looking to spend too much on skincare.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsEnriched with vitamin C which helps skin to appear brighterNiacinamide evens out skin tone - for dry, dull complexionsGel cleansers a great choice for combination skin typesBecomes a mild foam to cleanse, moisturise and hydrateConsOne user found it a little drying for their combination skinAnother user preferred a previous version of this cleanser
| Important ingredients | Glycerin, panthenol, niacinamide, vitamin C |
| Quantity | 150 ml |
| Suitable for | All skin types |
| Step | Second step, water-based gel cleanser |
| Benefits | Brightening, evening skin tone, boosting, hydrates, cleans |
| Vegan? | Vegan and cruelty-free |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best double cleanser for combination skinExpert rating:5.0
Piper / CloserPrice: £24refybeauty.com
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Thanks to the REFY Face Cleanse, you can remove 100% of makeup without drying out your skin. Its a powerhouse that is suitable for all skin types (combination skin included), dermatologically approved, and clinically tested. Actually, its award-winning, too, which may sway you to try this pick. From serum to a foaming cleanser, this REFY product provides a deep-pore cleanse without any harsh nasties.
I love the texture of the REFY Cleanse - and how it transforms from a milky serum into a foaming cleanser. Ive tested it with a full face of make-up and without - and its so effective at removing the days grime. Its really simple to use and feels unbelievably silky-soft on the skin. Im known to be a little picky about what I put on my face due to my sensitive, red skin. But this cleanser was so refreshing to use. Ive been using this cleanser for a little while now, and I am seeing small results (lessening my oily t-zone, overall more hydrated); the 2-in-1 REFY saves on using two products.
Its gentle, hydrating, refreshing, lightweight and plumping. My skin doesnt feel stripped of moisture. On the contrary, my tricky combination skin feels nourished, visibly, and to the touch.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisPros2-in-1 daily cleanser that removes 100% of makeup and hydrates the skinAward winning non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, vegan and cruelty-freeSuiitable for all skin types - and becomes a lovely, soft foaming cleanserI just loved this gentle, yet hydrating formula which features TrealixConsNone we can think of!
| Important ingredients | Glycerin, oil-like emollients, trealix™ |
| Quantity | 95 ml |
| Suitable for | All, Combination, Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Normal |
| Step | 2-in-1 |
| Benefits | Removes make-up, SPF and oils, extracts impurities, deeply cleanses pores, hydrates, smooths texture |
| Vegan? | Non-comedogenic, Vegan and cruelty-free, fragrance, alcohol, fragrance, paraben, sulfate, reef, and oil-safe |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Celeb faveExpert rating:3.5
Piper / CloserPrice: £9.71 (was £12.95)
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Alternative retailersVery£12.95View offerBoots£12.95View offerCult Beauty Global£12.95View offerSuperdrug£12.95View offer Need a first-step cleansing balm for taking off makeup? Those with combination skin, look no further: the Weleda Skin Food Balm is a fantastically nutrient-rich option. Oil-based, with organic sunflower oil and botanical extracts of viola tricolour, organic calendula and chamomile, this balm is from a brand loved by celebs. Its said to leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed.
I was lucky enough to try some to see what all the hype was about.
Well, lets just say that I liked this product. Why? The formula has a mild, pleasant smell, and its gentle on my skin. As for its cleansing abilities, it is good, and I appreciate its good value for money; its a fabulous plus. Its no surprise that the Skin Food Balm is a staple in many peoples skincare routines. Even when Im sporting a full makeup look, this Weleda product tackles everything with ease. And my results? My skin doesnt flare up, and it leaves my skin soft, clean and not too dry.
At first, the balm is a little odd - its quite like Vaseline. I can understand why a user may find the consistency too rich, heavy or sticky. It does melt into a milky, oil-like texture - but after you cleanse again with something water-based, your skin should balance everything out. As someone with sensitive skin, I have to be careful about what I use, but this was hydrating and nourishing. Some reviewers suggest that this works best in the colder months, keeping the skin protected.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsWeleda is a brand well-loved and vouched-for by lots of celebritiesYou only need the tiniest amount - which will help save moneyEnriched with nutrient-rich sunflower oil and botanical extractsTurns into a cleansing milk which boasts clean, soft and glowing skinMicrobiome-friendly and is effective at removing dirt and makeupConsSome users may find it a little thick or waxy - and may prefer a gel cleanserI found that it was effective at cleansing - but I still rely on my second cleanse
| Important ingredients | Glycerin, sunflower seed oil, violet extract, chamomile flower extract, marigold flower extract, rosemary leaf extract, water |
| Quantity | 75 ml |
| Suitable for | Unspecified. |
| Step | First - oil-cleanser |
| Benefits | Cleanses, replenishes, maintains moisture levels, melts away make-up/dirt/impurities, face mask |
| Vegan? | Yes - and silicon, paraben and sulfate-free |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best oil-based cleanser for combination skinExpert rating:3.5
Piper / CloserPrice: £13.99byoma.com
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Luxurious and nourishing, this BYOMA Milky Oil Cleanser melts away makeup, SPF and other impurities with no problems. Your skin will be left feeling ultra-hydrated, without any clogged pores or excess oily residue. BYOMA is such a firm favourite brand of mine, its hard to say anything bad about them. Ive had success using their Smoothing Body Polish and Gel Moisturiser in the past. So, I was very keen to try this pick, which is packed with soothing, hydrating organic oils.
Aside from the vegan and cruelty-free formulation, this Milky Cleanser has been tested and approved by dermatologists - and as a result, it is non-comedogenic, alcohol and fragrance-free. I found it did a good job of removing my makeup, SPF and any dirt - without my skin feeling dry. If anything, my skin felt a little oily. I use The Body Shops Oil-Control Seaweed Toner to balance and prevent outbreaks. The Milky Oil Cleanser is ideal for double cleansing and leaves my skin soft and smooth.
Though the scent is a little peculiar for me, I like how nourishing and hydrating this feels on the dryer patches of my skin. On paper, its perfect for sensitive skin types. However, some customers (not me) have had breakouts with acne and flare-ups of rosacea, believed to be caused by this cleansers essential oils. Wed recommend doing a patch test before you attempt a proper cleanse. Some found it excellent for acne-prone skin, while others experienced breakouts. So, its down to your skin.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsI found it dissolved waterproof makeup whilst being super gentle on the skinLeaves skin feeling soft, plump, and moisturized without stripping it of moistureIdeal as the first step in a skincare routine, pairing well with a second cleanserVegan, cruelty-free formula - with sturdy, leak-proof packaging for travelConsSome find it great for acne-prone skin - but, others reported flare-upsContains essential oils which can trigger rosacea or sensitivity
| Important ingredients | Barrier lipid complex, sqyalane, moringa seed oil |
| Quantity | 100 ml |
| Suitable for | Sensitive skin (!) |
| Step | First - oil-based cleanser |
| Benefits | Moisturising, protects skin barrier, reduces redness/skin sensitivity, removes make-up and cleanses pores. |
| Vegan? | Vegan and cruelty-free; Dermatologist tested and approved, non-comedogenic, alcohol and fragrance-free |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best cleanser for younger skinExpert rating:4.0
Piper / CloserView offer
The Bare Addiction Skincare Foaming Gel Cleanser is refreshing, clearing and restoring. Though gentle, it effectively exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores - and thanks to the active ingredients, excess oil is history. No more feature breakouts here. Its formulated for tweens, teens and twenties in mind - and as I am 25, I thought I would be (just about) in the margins to test it.
After use, the skin is said to be left looking clearer and feeling smoother - with the reduction of the appearance of spots, redness and pores. I found all of this to be pretty much true. My hormonal, red skin is so pronounced, and not many cleansers have been able to tackle the blotchiness within a few uses. I was pleasantly surprised by Bare Addictions gel cleanser, which eventually balances out into a workable, soothing foam. I found my face feeling softened, refreshed, and clearer each time.
At under £12 for 60 uses, its pretty good value for money, too. So, whether youre shopping for a teen whos intrigued by the world of skincare or want to spend as little as you can but guarantee good results after consistent use, this would be my recommendation. Its packed with oil-soluble salicylic acid, which is beneficial for combination and oily skin types as it is known to control oil, treat acne, and soothe irritated skin. Plus, its fragrance-free, which suits my sensitive skin well.
However, as I have combination skin, I do worry about the effect that balancing cleansers have on the dryer parts of my face. This Bare Addiction pick, especially, made my skin a little tight and dry. To remedy this, I - as mentioned previously - used a hydrating toner or serum to counter it immediately. Overall, this is a good, new product for younger people interested in skincare. The pump dispenser is convenient, so youre not wasting any product. A little goes a long way, too, which helps us all out.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsMany users, especially parents of preteens and teens, found it mild. gentle and non-irritatingSome users report noticeable improvements in breakouts, oil control, and overall skin healthUsing this cleanser left my skin feeling fresher, softer, and much less red - which is a relief!I appreciated the unscented formula, which makes it safer to use for sensitive skin typesConsFormulated for "teens and twenties"- not suitable for mature skinA few users - including myself - felt it left our skin feeling a little tight/dry
| Important ingredients | Salicylic acid, Saw Palmetto, juniper, glycerin |
| Quantity | 150 ml |
| Suitable for | Younger skin - teens and twenties (not mature) |
| Step | Second, if you have make-up on - water-based |
| Benefits | Cleanses, exfoliates, targets breakouts, balances, and soothes red/irritated skin. |
| Vegan? | Yes - natural, hypoallergenic and dermatologist-approved; Sulfate, paraben, oil, silicone, EU-allergen and alcohol-free. |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Sustainable cleanser for combination skinExpert rating:4.5
Piper / CloserPrice: £16
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Alternative retailersSuperdrug£19.44View offer The Evolve Organic Beauty Daily Detox Facial Wash is a delicately foaming facial wash that serves to detoxify and rebalance combination skin types. I personally love the vegan, organic and cruelty-free formula from Evolve, a B-Corp, which makes it perfect for those who centre sustainability in their beauty products. Not only does it control oil (thanks to the maltodextrin), but its a hydrating and anti-ageing pick, too - with rejuvenating aloe, glycerin, goji berry and moringa oil. Very luxurious.
I tried the Daily Detox Facial Wash for my red, splotchy and textured combination skin and was very happy with the results. I would describe myself as a dry skin type primarily, with an oily t-zone. Im prone to blemishes, keratosis pilaris and eczema - which is a whole barrel of laughs. Safe to say, I have to be selective with my beauty products. I found this wash improved the oily parts of my face and didnt dry out the dryer patches, either. It was gentle yet effective at clearing any texture.
If Ive missed a little bit of make-up with my first oil-based cleanser, I can totally rely on this pick to come through. Though there was a little tightness, I experienced little to no irritation; instead, my skin was soft and had a refreshed feeling. Its gentle - with a light and natural fragrance. Though it took me a little while to get the pump working, its a fantastic design. I admire Ecolves commitment to plastic-free packaging. Theyre saving the planet and my skin - one bottle at a time.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsI love that this comes in a recyclable glass bottle, and a small amount lasts a long timeThe fragrance is light and very pleasant, which enhances the cleansing experienceCleans thoroughly without stripping moisture from my skin - perfect for sensitivityHelps with my oily t-zone, prevents breakouts, and leaves my skin feeling so softConsI did find the pump a little tricky to work initially - but, I found a knackI experienced a little tightness after - but using a rich moisturiser helped
| Important ingredients | Goji Berry extract, Moringa Peptides |
| Quantity | 100 ml |
| Suitable for | Normal to dry skin |
| Step | Second - water-based |
| Benefits | Detoxify, rebalance, cleanse, smooths, defend against pollution |
| Vegan? | Yes - organic and cruelty-free |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best cleanser for teenage combination skinExpert rating:4.0
Piper / CloserPrice: £12.80 (was £16)
View offerAlternative retailersBoots£10.00View offer If your teens are curious about skincare, this Bubble Soft Launch Cleanser is a great choice. Its ideal for acne-prone skin but suitable for most skin types (dry, combination, oily, sensitive). Super versatile, we know. Thanks to its dermatologist-backed formula, the Bubble Cleanser will remove any dirt without drying, soothing or irritating the skin. I got to test this pick myself, and I felt revitalised.
Gentle yet powerful, the Bubble Soft Launch is one of my favourites on the list. Its super affordable, plant-based and uncomplicated. Gel cleansers work for my face - and the combined power of spearmint extract (to refresh), glyconalactone (to exfoliate), aloe vera (to moisturise) and caffeine (to reduce redness) does everything I require after a day of writing. Im not sure its strong enough to remove my makeup, but it may work for others. Its helped reduce my blemishes over time - and doesnt cause any reactions, thanks to its mild formula and no chemical fragrances.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsDeep cleansing, which effectively removes dirt and oil without irritationI found this super balancing, which kept my skin clear and hydratedWe love the gentle formula, which is cruelty and fragrance-freeLeft my skin feeling fresh, clean and revitalised - without drying it outConsI wouldn't recommend it as a primary cleanse
| Important ingredients | Glycerin, lavender flower, spearmint leaf extract, aloe leaf juice |
| Quantity | 125 ml |
| Suitable for | All skin types |
| Step | Step two if wearing make-up/SPF - water-based |
| Benefits | Refreshes, calms, soothes, reduces redness, moisturises, exfoliates, washes |
| Vegan? | Yes - and cruelty-free! |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best for oil controlExpert rating:3.5
Piper / CloserPrice: £12www.thebodyshop.com
View offer
I love The Body Shop, and their Seaweed Oil Control Cleanser is an effective pick for those with combination skin who struggle with oily patches. Whether daily grime or excess foam, this seaweed-based gentle cleanser turns into a lush foam for balanced and clean skin. This has been a staple of mine for a few years now, and it comes in handy when I face any oily imbalances.
Whether for younger or mature skin, this pick is a sensory experience for many users. It has an invigorating scent (which is nothing like the seaweed you may be accustomed to) and definitely contributed to a feeling of cleanliness. I agree with a few customers who would prefer this as a bar of soap, as opposed to the plastic packaging it comes in. Luckily, you only need a little drop, and it transforms into a soft, lightly-fragranced cleanse, primed to cut down on excess oils that are the bane of your existence. Ive found it can even help with makeup residue, which is a bonus.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsRemoves all leftover make-up residue and leaves my skin feeling cleanWith a refreshing scent, lathers well and helps control any excess oilGentle, yet effective - and a long-time favourite for many usersConsFound it dried out parts of my skin - restrict use on dryer patchesWould love the Body Shop to make a plastic-free version
| Important ingredients | Aloe juice, glycerin, algae extract, sorbitol. |
| Quantity | 125 ml |
| Suitable for | Oily or combination skin |
| Step | Step two - water-based |
| Benefits | Cleanses, balances |
| Vegan? | Yes - and never tested on animals |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best oil cleanser for radianceExpert rating:4.0
Piper / CloserRrp:14.00
Price: £8.00View offer
Alternative retailersBoots£6.67View offerVery£12.00View offer The Super Facialist Skin Renew Cleansing Oil has quickly become a favorite of mine (and many others), earning a consistent five-star average rating. Impressive, right? Designed for all skin types, this vegan and cruelty-free oil-based cleanser blends nourishing botanicals—like olive, grapeseed, and raspberry oils—with skin-brightening Vitamin C and antioxidant-rich Vitamin E. It features a transformative oil-to-milk texture that effectively dissolves makeup, SPF, and daily grime, making it an ideal first step in a double-cleansing routine. And, my tricky combination skin vouches for it, too.
I really love its ability to cleanse deeply while leaving my skin soft, hydrated, and radiant. Many customers come back to this cleansing oil as it gets the job done and is good value for money. I enjoy the lightweight, non-greasy texture, pleasant citrus scent and luxurious feel. It removes makeup very well without irritating the eyes or using too much of the product. It is a miracle in a bottle, granting me a natural glow, reducing blemishes and leaving my skin feeling indulgent. Make sure to rinse it off. However, the cleanser is a little messy to use - after all, it does require water to work best.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsFormulated for all skin types to unlock beautifully clean and radiant skinCleansing oil-to-milk texture breaks down makeup, daily impuritiesA holy grail cleanser which doesn't break out my blemish-prone, sensitive skinVitamin C can help reduce sun damage, pigmentation and promote radianceConsA little messy to use - make sure to rinse off well
| Important ingredients | Olive, grapeseed, raspberry, rosehip, cucumber, and passionflower oils - with Vitamin C and E. |
| Quantity | 100 or 200 ml |
| Suitable for | For all skin types |
| Step | First step for double cleanse (oil-based) |
| Benefits | Removes make-up, hydrates, smoothes, boosts glow |
| Vegan? | Yes - and cruelty-free |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best balancing cleanser for combination skin
Piper / CloserPrice: £27www.espaskincare.com
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Deeply cleanse, balance oils and gently remove makeup and impurities with this ESPA Balancing Foam Cleanser. It contains a winning combination of gentle coconut, naturally foaming yucca to cleanse deeply, and mandarin to balance, while olive oil and sugar beet nourish the skin for a softer, supple finish.
The ESPA Balancing Foam Cleanser holds an impressive average rating of 4.89 out of 5 stars based on over 1,000 customer reviews. I was lucky enough to try this pick and loved it for its gentle yet effective formula - leaving my skin feeling soft, refreshed, and thoroughly cleansed. As someone with combination, red and acne-prone skin, I was sceptical about how well it would work. With consistent use, I noticed visible improvements in texture, blemishes and breakouts. Not only does it help cleanse my heavy eye makeup well, but I can feel it settling scores with my oily t-zone as I massage my skin. However, I did find it slightly drying, and it struggled to remove stubborn mascara residue.
It smells great, lathers well, and lasts a long time. Whats not to love?
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsMy go-to soft, balancing cleanser for those oilier skin daysOlive oil and sugarbeet helps my skin feel so soft afterEffective as a second cleanse, removing any makeup residueBrightening, calming, anti-pollution, smoothing and moreConsI did find it slightly drying - but combatted with a hydrating serumIt cleanses well but struggled to remove stubborn mascara residue
| Important ingredients | Glycerin, panthenol, niacinamide, vitamin C |
| Quantity | 150 ml |
| Suitable for | All skin types |
| Step | Second step, water-based gel cleanser |
| Benefits | Brightening, evening skin tone, boosting, hydrates, cleans |
| Vegan? | Vegan and cruelty-free |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Best for sensitive, allergenic skin
Piper / CloserPrice: £7.19 (was £8.99)
View offer This Tolpa Dermo Face Sebio Wash Gel has received rave reviews from the skincare scene in Europe. As its now stocked in Boots, I was lucky enough to try it myself. Its known for its gentle yet effective exfoliation and deep-cleansing abilities, particularly for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types. Its been formulated with peat, AHAS and LHAs, which exfoliate without scrubbing, helping to unclog pores, reduce excess sebum, and minimise the appearance of imperfections. It contains salicylic acid for anti-acne benefits, glycerin and lactic acid for hydration - perfect for my allergic skin.
Im impressed by the product’s light fragrance, gentle cleansing and economical usage (a small amount creates a rich lather). It leaves my skin feeling clean and refreshed without tightness. I can get behind its budget-friendly price, too. After all, you dont need to use too much, and some of us will be able to use it as a double cleanse, wiping away grease, grime, makeup, or any other impurities with ease. I found it effective at helping pick up what my oil (first-step) cleaner couldnt.
However, I did find that the Tolpa Dermo Wash Gel could be slightly drying, especially when I tried it in winter. I reckon this cooling gel would be better suited to the spring and summer months to sit below SPF. Salicylic acid can help combat summer shininess and control greasiness. It did mattify my skin a little, which may overdry areas in winter - opt for hydrating cleansers instead.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsHelps reduce excess sebum, unclog pores, and minimise imperfectionsI found the chemical exfoliants (AHA and LHAs) gentle - no irritationFoams well with only a tiny amount - and leaves skin feeling so smoothContains glycerin and lactic acid for hydration when balancing skinConsA little bit drying and mattifying - would recommend for spring and summer use
| Important ingredients | Glycerin, panthenol, niacinamide, vitamin C |
| Quantity | 150 ml |
| Suitable for | All skin types |
| Step | Second step, water-based gel cleanser |
| Benefits | Brightening, evening skin tone, boosting, hydrates, cleans |
| Vegan? | Vegan and cruelty-free |
Tried and tested by Piper-Ivy
Subscription pickExpert rating:4.5
Piper / CloserPrice: £12+www.beautypie.com
View offer As Im SUCH a big fan of Beauty Pie and their Happy Face Extreme Relief Cica Cream, I was looking forward to trying this Happy Face Jelly Cleanser. Its a gentle, hydrating gel-cream cleanser designed for all skin types, including sensitive and dry skin. Luckily for you, its been enriched with organic aloe vera, oat extract, pentavitin, rose, and peach fruit extract for the winning combination. Not only does it soothe and condition, but it also moisturises while supporting the skin barrier - day and night. And, lets not forget my favourite ingredient Centella Asiatica (or cica), which is so good for my red skin.
With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, Beauty Pie is raving about this new-ish cleanser. Many praise its gentleness, effectiveness, and value for money. I love the luxurious jelly texture, delicate scent, and the fact that it leaves my skin feeling as soft as silk. Its an excellent second cleanse or morning option that doesn’t dry out my skin and leaves it hydrated and refreshed. Although its thorough and nourishing, it doesn’t remove heavy or eye makeup as effectively as Id hoped.
Pros ConsSpecificationsIngredient analysisProsVegan, clean beauty, dermatologically tested and plastic neutralNaturally-soothing formula features aloe vera and oat extractI love the added Centella Asiatica will calm and reduce skin rednessGel cleanser is hydrating and protective - ideal for combination skinConsDoesnt remove heavy eye makeup as effectively
| Important ingredients | Glycerin, panthenol, niacinamide, vitamin C |
| Quantity | 150 ml |
| Suitable for | All skin types |
| Step | Second step, water-based gel cleanser |
| Benefits | Brightening, evening skin tone, boosting, hydrates, cleans |
| Vegan? | Vegan and cruelty-free |
Dr Hiba has given us a step-by-step routine that combination skin girlies should live by:
1. Use a gentle cleanser that can cleanse the skin without stripping it. A mild or gel cleanser can help balance the oily areas while being kind to the drier parts.
2. Exfoliating 1-2 times a week, depending on skin sensitivity, can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.
3. Use a lightweight, hydrating combination skin-friendly moisturiser. Gel-based moisturisers are often a good choice, as they hydrate without feeling too heavy or cloggy or using a hyaluronic acid serum.
4. Use products that target specific skin concerns (e.g. serums for oily skin in the T-zone or moisturising creams for drier areas).
5. Dont forget daily SPF. It can be hard to find an option for combination skin that balances - but look for an oil-free or gel-based formula. Dr Hiba recommends Heliocare for this.
Is water or silicone-based makeup good for combination skin?
Dr Hiba says those with combination skin can use both silicone and water-based makeup.
She says that water-based formulas are a better choice, as they hydrate without contributing to excess oil and often feel lightweight and comfortable. Make sure to check the ingredients list when shopping—look for aqua as the primary ingredient, and youre golden.
Silicone-based products can be used - but with caution in oilier areas, Dr Hiba states. Silicones can create a layer on top of the skin and may trap oil or cause clogging in the pores. To avoid this, double cleanse after wearing and stop using if you notice breakouts.
Are gel cleansers good for combination skin?
Gel cleansers are Dr Hibas go-to option for combination skin.
She loves them because:
• Theyre typically lightweight
• They effectively clean without over-drying or irritating the skin
• There are so many brilliant formulas on the high street
Dr Hiba points out that you dont need to splurge a lot on effective cleansing as long as youre double cleansing thoroughly, particularly if you are wearing makeup and SPF. She adds, Take your cleansing up to your hairline, under the jaw, and down the neck.
Dr Hiba has three favourites that she recommends to patients - the Avene Cleanance Gel Cleanser, Eucerins DermoPurifyer Cleansing Gel, or the CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser.
Are oil cleansers good for combination skin?
Oil-based cleansers can be effective for certain skin types - however for combination skin, Dr Hiba recommends avoiding them altogether. She claims that a lot of information can be misleading. She adds: Stripping the skin of excess oil or over-exfoliating can cause it to produce more to regain its balance, and therefore exacerbate the problem.
The best routine involves balancing hydration, oil control, and gentle care.
Is salicylic acid cleanser good for combination skin?
Salicylic acid can be really helpful for combination skin, says Dr Hiba, especially if youre dealing with clogged pores, blackheads, or acne. A beta hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid is known to penetrate pores and clears up excess oil and dead skin cells.
However, Dr Hiba recommends not overusing salicylic acid, as some formulas can be too harsh - as they could dry out your dry skin areas further. Instead, she suggests a simpler or cream cleanser as a first step in the dry areas. Salicylic acid should act as your exfoliation step or second cleanse in just a few areas that need it to avoid any reactions.
Piper Huxley is a Homes Lifestyle Product Writer for Closer, specialising in interior design, alternative fashion and beauty. When she’s not writing about homeware trends or her skincare routine, she’s snuggled up reading a witchy novel or binging (yet another) reality TV show…
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