These 8 Gel Cleansers Will Leave You Feeling Fresh-Faced

We’re sure by now you’ve got your favourite cleanser on lock. But if you’re looking to sample a new style of formula or just need help wading through the squeaky clean world of cleansers, we’ve got you covered. From what works best for mature skin to deciding between  foam cleansers, oil cleansers, and their other pals, there’s a lot you have to understand before making an informed purchase.
Well, here’s a tidbit of information that we think will aid your search: gel cleansers might just be the formula hybrid you’ve been waiting for. We reckon gel cleansers are the true unsung heroes of the cleansing world. They’re gentle enough for sensitive skin, robust enough for oily skin and well… cleansing enough for everyone in between. So if you’re running on empty (or wanting to switch things up), make sure to pop one of these gel cleansers in the cart.

Best Gel Cleansers

CeraVe Foaming Cleanser

We Say: CeraVe has created such a quality range (derm-approved and all) that you’ll even spot their products amongst celeb’s bathroom selfies! This gel-to-foam formula is able to gently (and deeply) cleanse away makeup and impurities while still leaving your skin barrier undisturbed. 

You Say: “It makes your skin glow, look and feel radiant. It makes me the most confident person and works so well with my combination skin. Having the 3 essential creaminess in the formula is perfect, as-well as it being fragrance free and alcohol free. Cerave is a brand I trust making products for every skin concern and has been developed by dermatologists, so you’re putting your money into things you can trust.” – cleo_03

Want to hear more? Read CeraVe Foaming Cleanser reviews here…

$16.99 at Adore Beauty

Paula’s Choice Perfectly Natural Cleansing Gel

We Say: Made with up to 98 percent natural ingredients, this gentle gel is perfect for all skin types and is able to remove impurities while leaving your skin hydrated and refreshed.
$34 at Paula’s Choice

Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant Soothing Foaming Gel Cleanser

We say: Is it a gel? Is it a foam? Or maybe even a mousse? Whatever form it chooses, this gentle cleanser is the sensitive-skin friendly must-have. Using micellar technology, it’s infused with skin-loving and protecting ingredients. So you’re in safe hands to have your skin hydrated and your barrier restored while oh-so-gently cleansing the day away. 

You say: “I have been using the Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant as my daily cleanser for the past month and my skin feels more soft, hydrated and the problem areas are less red. Designed for sensitive skin, it doesn’t contain harsh ingredients that will irritate the skin. It’s gentle enough to remove makeup (including eye makeup), dirt and impurities. I like how it’s in a gel form so it doesn’t leave your skin with an oily residue, keeping it fresh and hydrated.” – buti4

Want to know more? Read Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant Soothing Foaming Gel Cleanser Reviews here…

$26.99 at Adore Beauty

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

We Say: This cleanser knows it’s worth and no one needed to tell her today, she’s special (thanks Lizzo). Gentle and lightweight enough for daily use, soapbark rinses your skin clean of toxins while botanicals get to work on keeping your skin soothed. 
$67 at Dermalogica

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Softening Foaming Gel

We Say: Sensitive skin card holders, we’re not calling you out, we’re just directing your attention to this gentle cult-classic cleanser. It’s still potent enough to cleanse the day away but won’t end up leaving our skin feeling dry or tight. Supple, soothed skin, here you come!

You Say: “As someone with combination skin, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked for me. It’s gentle enough for my sensitive areas while still effective at removing oil and dirt from my T-zone. Plus, the fact that it’s so easy to use has made it a go-to for me and even my husband has started using it. It’s rare to find a product that works so well for both of our skin types, but this one definitely fits the bill. I highly recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a gentle yet effective cleanser that’s suitable for all skin types.” – ssophiey

Want to hear more? Read La Roche-Posay Toleriane Softening Foaming Gel reviews here…

$22.39 at Chemist Warehouse

Drunk Elephant Beste No.9 Jelly Cleanser

We Say: This vegan formulated jelly cleanser makes sure to not irritate your skin. It works to do that with virgin marula oil to add antioxidants (and help remove makeup), plus glycerin to give your skin nourishing hydration. Bonus points for the soothing addition of cantaloupe fruit extract!
$54 at MECCA

Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel

We Say: All of Avène’s’ products are formulated with their unique spring water, which helps to soothe and refresh your skin. This gel cleanser is able to gently cleanse away impurities and build up. Not only does it do all that but the ingredient monolaurin helps to mattify and smooth out your skin’s texture, too; plus it’s even able to reduce excess sebum production!

You Say: “I have been using the Avene Gel Cleanser for a few weeks and it is the perfect cleanser for my oily combo skin. I love how it helps to mattify my skin but doesn’t dry it out at all. It leaves my skin feeling so fresh afterwards and never irritated. I can see that my pores are smaller and my skin does not look as congested as before. It lathers up well and has quite a neutral scent.” – AndreaD

Want to hear more? Read Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel reviews here…

$28.99 at Adore Beauty

etat pur Purifying Cleansing Gel

We say: Purified skin no longer needs to come with a long list of ingredients. This fresh, foaming (once wet) gel cleanser contains only ten ingredients! Leaving out any harsh ingredients (think sulphate-free) this pH balanced cleanser will leave your skin cleansed and clear with no skin-stripping in sight. 

Want to read more? Read etat pur Purifying Cleansing Gel Reviews here…

$25 at Look Fantastic

Main Image Credit: @oliviawilde

How do you cleanse your skin? Will you try one of these gentle gel cleansers?