As we age, so does our complexion. And with that comes a shift in priorities: goodbye teenage acne and hello fine lines! So, as our skin texture and concerns begin to evolve, the products we use should be following alongside them. If your focus has shifted from blackheads to age spots, it’s likely time to consider seeking out a cleanser that’s going to cater specifically to your new set of skin concerns.
We spoke to celebrity facialist Jocelyn Petroni, to find out which cleansing formulas are the best for mature skin as well as what they’re actually doing.
What should we look for in a cleanser for mature skin?
As a general rule, opt for a milk, cream, or oil-based cleanser to ensure you’re hydrating as we wash. Jocelyn spotlights ingredients such as shea butter, vitamin B5 and vitamin E for being “key in helping the skin stay soft and hydrated”.
As far as AHAs go, Jocelyn recommends lactic acid as a “great dual-action cleansing ingredient as it dissolves dead skin buildup and increases cell turnover.”
What should we avoid in a cleanser for mature skin?
As mature skin tends to be drier, Jocelyn recommends avoiding foam or gel-based cleansers. “They tend to remove natural oils within the skin and can dry [it] out even further,” she explained.
Fragrance and alcohol-based products are also high on Joceyln’s do-not-use list. Why? Because they will strip the natural oils from the skin. And as we age, these are already in limited supply.
“Hot water is more dehydrating and can contribute to redness,” adds Jocelyn. So avoid those scolding hot showers and make sure you’re cleansing your face using lukewarm water.
What are the best cleansers for mature skin?
Eau Thermale Avène Gentle Milk Cleanser
We say: Formulated for the exact kind of dryness that comes with an ageing complexion. Avène’s creamy cleanser will remove makeup and gently wash away impurities without causing any irritation or damage.
You say: “I love how this brand is focused on dry and sensitive skin as I struggled for years to find appropriate skincare for my skin! This milk cleanser is absolutely amazing! It smells amazing and is so creamy on the skin!” – Shanhads
Want to know more? Read Eau Thermale Avène Gentle Milk Cleanser reviews here…
$35.99 at Adore Beauty
Ella Baché Botanical Skin Cleansing Oil
We say: Treat dry and lacklustre skin to this botanically active blend of hemp seed oil, cranberry and pomegranate. Ella Baché’s nourishing oil cleanser will gently remove makeup and dirt from deep within the pores as it simultaneously conditions, rebalances and softens the skin.
You say: “Another great product from Ella Baché. This cleansing oil has a very thin consistency, yet very effective. Although I am always tempted to use more because it is so thin, it isn’t really necessary. This cleansing oil is gentle, effective, melts absolutely all sunscreens and makeup away, including tubing mascaras.” – Skincare Junkie
Want to know more? Read Ella Baché Botanical Skin Cleansing Oil reviews here…
$72 at Ella Baché
Andalou Naturals Age Defying Apricot Probiotic Cleansing Milk
We say: Enriched with antioxidants, resveratrol and Coq10, Andalou’s sensitive skin-friendly cleanser works to smooth fine lines and promote collagen production for plumper, fresher-looking skin.
You say: “After rinsing in warm water , my skin felt cleansed and very smooth. I recommend this to those that have dry sensitive and/ or mature skin types and who don’t like any foaming cleansers especially on your face.” – Harmony Queen
Want to know more? Read Andalou Naturals Apricot Cleansing Milk reviews here…
$16.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Clarins Velvet Cleansing Milk
We say: Cleanse, comfort and calm a dehydrated complexion. Thanks to the blend of organic yellow gentian and organic lemon balm, Clarins has struck the perfect balance between keeping our skin clean without stripping any of its natural oils in the process.
You say: “It is soft and creamy and spreads well and easily over your skin. Once it has been washed off your skin feels soft and lovely. It does not have a strong fragrance which I like. Clarins Velvet Cleansing Milk is quite expensive but if that is not an issue I would recommend this product for keeping your sking clean soft.” – Normap
Want to know more? Read Clarins Velvet Cleansing Milk reviews here…
$46 at Myer
Main image credit: @greceghanem
Do you have any cleansing tips for mature skin? If so, what are they?
Jurlique makes wonderful natural products. Andalou is a relative newcomer here but has nice natural products
I’ve not tried any of the Andalou range – need to rectify that ASAP
I love my Jurlique products but they are on the more expensive side and hard to afford once reitred. I totally agree though
Gorgeous looking products!
I must admit that I have never heard of these products. Must take more notice when I am in the shops.
Some good tips here and also relates to sensitive skin. I find foaming cleansers tend to dry out my skin and hot water is a big no no. The alcohol and fragrances in cleansers are no good as well.
These sound lovely. At the moment I’m liking a camomile-based cleansing balm from The Body Shop for my skin.
That sounds really nice
Haven’t seen the Tata Harper one before.
Would love to see more articles on young skin also
Great list!
I prefer more budget products: Cerave, Dermaveen.
They are both excellent
good advice and affordable products too. I am keen to try the Avene cleanser
yes very good advice and some lovely products too
Really good article -I am guilty of hot showers though.
I like the Avene cleanser, I still cleanse twice in the evening but it’s with a balm followed by a lotion.
I find Avene’s products so highly fragranced I would give that one a miss.
Some really Great Cleansers on the List.
Jocelyn Petroni doesn’t look old enough to be classed as having mature skin!! Whatever she is using must be good.
She is, it is just insta filter. I think she is in late 40s or early 50s? Nowadays anything over 40 is classed as “mature”. lol
Yes to a great cleansing oil!
I don’t have any tips of my own, but good to know for the future.
I’ve tried the Clarins and it’s great.
Avene us a very nice brand
I’ve used three out of those four cleansers – I’m yet to try the Andalou Naturals Cleansing Milk. I love the Ella Baché Cleansing Oil.
I’m nearly 50 and I must say, my skin is as oily as ever!
All of these sound nice
Yes they sound really good
I don’t have mature skin but the Avène Gentle Milk Cleanser is wonderful!
I agree – I’ve found that foams and gels aren’t so good for my skin anymore.
A great read and lovely products to try.
As someone with dry skin, I have always used creamy cleansers. I briefly tried some cleansing balms. I never liked how both these types of cleansers left a film or product residue on my face. Now I am trying cleansing oils and I have a feeling that I might stay with them.
I forgot to say that do not assume that mature skin equals dry skin. Someone that I know that is in her seventies still has oily skin. While it has its challenges, she looks much younger than most people in her age range.
Agree completely, @Petal. My skin has never been dry and even as I age I prefer lotions to creams. My skin hates heavy creams for ageing beauties.
Plus I am only getting older.
I have not tried any of these.
Creamy cleansers are my go-to.
makes sense to try and keep as much moisture in rather than strip it out – I’ve certainly noticed my skin has become dry as I get older.
Yes mine too -good advice in this article
Clarins velvet cleanser looks beautiful
I’m using QV to cleanse my face and it’s quite good and economical
unfortunately price guides my choices
Lots of lovely options
Clarins products always smell so nice
At 56, my once-greasy skin is drying out, but only a little. Blemishes & blackhead control are still my #1 concern.
Some good products i could recommend
I prefer a cream or milk cleanser
I prefer any hydrating cleanser on my skin.
I’ve found that a gentler cleanser is better for me now, too.
Great article. Our skin does need us to change with the changfing needs of our skin. I tend to get products I like and stick with them, this article reminds me to look for more appropriate products.
I like that there’s an article on this!
I love the Avene cleanser.
My skin is getting oiler as I get older . But great products
i have heard of the milk one
Wow, love how specific the target audience is for this one, much appreciated
I would love to try all of these cleansers. I use a cleansing oil and then follow with the andalou sensitive skin cleansing foam. As its for sensitive skin i think it has to be gentle.
I use Clinique’s Anti-Redness cream cleanser and I love it. Super effective but very gentle.
dry but i still get oil