Best Cleansing Gels & Foams of 2025

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 29 Jan 2025

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Cleansing gels and foams are a popular choice for those looking for an effective way to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from their skin. These products come in a variety of formulas and are suitable for all skin types. They are designed to gently cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalized. Cleansing gels and foams are an essential part of any skincare routine and can help to improve the overall appearance and health of your skin.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid Cover #TOP 1
CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel for Blemish-Prone Skin Cover #TOP 2
NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel for Blemish-Prone Skin
ftb score rating icon 9.7
NIVEA MEN Protect & Care Deep Cleaning Face Wash Cover #TOP 3
NIVEA MEN Protect & Care Deep Cleaning Face Wash
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Cleansing Gels & Foams

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid

3337875784054
Clear
236 ml (Pack of 1)
CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid Cover
CeraVe Blemish Control Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid & Niacinamide for Blemish-Prone Skin 236ml

The CeraVe Blemish Cleanser is specially formulated for blemish-prone skin, developed in collaboration with dermatologists. It features three essential ceramides that help protect your skin's natural barrier, ensuring it remains healthy. This refreshing gel-to-foam cleanser effectively removes dirt, impurities, and excess oils, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. With MVE Technology, it locks in moisture, providing you with 24-hour hydration, so your skin stays nourished throughout the day.

What We Like
Dermatologist-developed formula
Contains essential ceramides
Effectively removes impurities
Provides long-lasting hydration

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel for Blemish-Prone Skin

98755-04568-02
150 ml (Pack of 1)
NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel for Blemish-Prone Skin Cover
NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel (150ml), Deep Cleansing Salicylic Acid Face Wash Enriched with Niacinamide to Cleanse Pores and Remove Impurities, For Blemish-Prone Skin

The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Gel is designed for deep cleansing, helping you achieve effortlessly clear skin. It effectively unclogs pores and removes excess oil, making it ideal for those with blemish-prone skin. This gel also reduces and prevents blemishes, such as blackheads and whiteheads, by eliminating unwanted sebum. Enriched with Salicylic Acid, Sea Salt, and Niacinamide, it stimulates the removal of old skin cells, ensuring your skin feels fresh and revitalised.

What We Like
Deeply cleanses pores
Reduces blemishes effectively
Concentrated active ingredients
Clinically tested for safety
Convenient for daily use
#TOP 3

NIVEA MEN Protect & Care Deep Cleaning Face Wash

9922
100 ml (Pack of 1)
NIVEA MEN Protect & Care Deep Cleaning Face Wash Cover
NIVEA MEN Protect & Care - Deep Cleaning Face Wash - Refreshing Mens Face Cleanser - Enriched With Aloe Vera & Pro-Vitamin B5 - Removes Impurities & Excess Oil - For Normal To Dry Skin - 100 ml

NIVEA MEN Face Wash is specially formulated for normal to dry skin, providing a deep cleanse that leaves your skin and beard looking healthy and refreshed. It effectively unblocks pores while removing excess oil and impurities, ensuring your skin doesn't feel dry afterwards. Enriched with Aloe Vera and Pro-Vitamin B5, this cleanser not only cleans but also replenishes your skin, protecting its natural barrier. Following a simple routine will help maintain your skin's health and comfort throughout the day.

What We Like
Deeply cleanses skin and beard
Unclogs pores effectively
Hydrating Aloe Vera included
Gentle on normal to dry skin
#TOP 4

CeraVe Foaming Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin

MB096221
white
473 ml (Pack of 1)
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin Cover
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser with Niacinamide and 3 Essential Ceramides for Normal to Oily Skin 473ml

The CeraVe Foaming Cleanser is expertly developed with dermatologists to provide effective cleansing for normal to oily skin. It contains three essential ceramides, which help to maintain your skin's natural barrier, ensuring it stays healthy and hydrated. This foaming gel cleanser efficiently removes excess oil, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean. With MVE Technology, it locks in moisture, providing you with 24-hour hydration for a more comfortable feel throughout the day.

What We Like
Developed with dermatologists
Maintains skin's natural barrier
Removes excess oil effectively
Provides 24-hour hydration
Gentle and fragrance-free
#TOP 5

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser with Niacinamide

Braun (Pebble 5810)
473 ml (Pack of 1)
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser with Niacinamide Cover
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, 473ml, Face & Body Wash, For Normal To Dry Sensitive Skin, With Niacinamide & Glycerin, Soap Free

Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser is perfect for even the most sensitive skin, making it suitable for all ages, including children and babies. Its clinically proven formula effectively removes dirt, makeup, and impurities while keeping your skin's moisture barrier intact. With Micellar Technology, it hydrates as it cleanses, ensuring your skin feels soothed and replenished. The new and improved formula includes Glycerin and Niacinamide, providing additional hydration without causing dryness, making it a gentle choice for your daily skincare routine.

What We Like
Suitable for all ages
Hydrates while cleansing
Non-irritating and fragrance-free
Gentle with or without water
Clinically proven results

Aveeno Calm+Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser

200 ml (Pack of 1)
Aveeno Calm+Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser Cover
Aveeno Face Calm+Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser (1x 200ml), Gentle Cleanser with Prebiotic Oat and Calming Feverfew, Non Foaming Cleanser, Helps Preserve Skin's Barrier

The Aveeno Oat Cleanser is a gentle, non-foaming formula designed specifically for sensitive skin. It effectively removes dirt, impurities, and oil, leaving your skin feeling soothed and hydrated. Infused with Prebiotic Oat, it helps support your skin's natural moisture barrier, promoting repair and comfort. Additionally, the inclusion of Calming Feverfew provides antioxidant benefits, further enhancing the soothing effect. This hypoallergenic cleanser is fragrance-free, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to care for their sensitive skin without irritation.

What We Like
Gentle non-foaming formula
Soothes sensitive skin
Supports moisture barrier
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic

Acnecide Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash Gel

4111548
50 g (Pack of 1)
Acnecide Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash Gel Cover
Acnecide Face Wash Gel 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment for Spot-Prone Skin 50g

Acnecide Face Wash is a medicinal treatment designed to tackle mild acne and breakouts effectively. It contains 5% benzoyl peroxide, which is clinically proven to eliminate up to 95% of spot-causing bacteria, helping you achieve clearer skin. The AC Microsphere Technology not only absorbs excess oil but also releases glycerine to soothe your skin during use. Recommended for daily application, this face wash allows you to cleanse your skin conveniently while targeting troublesome areas.

What We Like
Reduces acne and breakouts
Unblocks pores effectively
Soothes and absorbs excess oil
Daily use is convenient

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser

12200
white
200 ml (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser Cover
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Facial Cleanser, with Hyaluronic Acid for Dry or Dehydrated Skin 200ml

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser is a refreshing facial cleanser designed for dry or dehydrated skin. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it effectively boosts your skin's hydration, ensuring it feels moisturised and plump. You can easily remove stubborn oil, make-up, and dirt, making your cleansing routine quick and efficient. This product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, so you can enjoy a gentle yet thorough cleanse without irritation.

What We Like
Hydrating hyaluronic acid
Removes stubborn dirt
Suitable for all skin types
Leaves skin refreshingly clean

L'Oreal Paris Men Expert Charcoal Face Wash

L’Oréal Paris men expert
3600523707997
Black
100 ml (Pack of 1)
L'Oreal Paris Men Expert Charcoal Face Wash Cover
L'Oreal Paris Men Expert Face Wash Pure Charcoal, Glycerin, and Salicylic acid - Blackhead Cleanser for Men, 100 ml (Pack of 1)

The L'Oreal Men Expert Face Wash is specifically designed for daily use on skin prone to imperfections. It effectively targets and reduces the appearance of five types of skin imperfections, helping you achieve a clearer complexion. With the inclusion of purifying charcoal, this face wash cleanses deeply, removing impurities and excess oil. Additionally, it contains glycerin and salicylic acid, which contribute to a smoother skin texture, making it ideal for anyone looking to enhance their daily skincare routine.

What We Like
Targets five skin imperfections
Contains purifying charcoal
Daily use for clearer skin
Deep cleanses impurities
#TOP 10

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser with Niacinamide

HBITT
473 ml (Pack of 1)
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser with Niacinamide Cover
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser, 473ml, Face Wash, For Combination to Oily Sensitive Skin, With Niacinamide

The Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser is ideal for those with combination to oily-sensitive skin. It effectively removes dirt, excess oils, and makeup without leaving your skin feeling dry or tight. This cleanser protects your skin's moisture by deeply cleansing and minimising pores without stripping away natural oils. With its new low-lather gel formula, enriched with Niacinamide and Panthenol, it is both soap-free and non-irritating, making it suitable for daily use in the morning and evening.

What We Like
Removes dirt and excess oils
Maintains skin moisture
Vegan-friendly formula
Suitable for sensitive skin
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is better gel or foam cleanser?

Furthermore, foaming cleanser is almost always better if your skin can handle it purely because of its deep cleansing properties. If foaming cleanser turns out to be too much, you can always switch to gel cleanser and know that it'll be fine for your skin while still providing a good amount of cleaning action.

2. What is cleansing foaming gel?

Foaming Cleansers: They're usually suggested for oily and acne-prone skin types since they are meant to deep clean the skin by getting rid of excess oil and sebum, as well as work to uproot any debris stuck in your pores, helping to keep your skin clean and refreshed.

3. What do cleansing foams do?

Foaming cleansers effectively removes makeup and clears up dirt from your pores. For instance, Mayerling's Foaming Cleanser dissolves skin impurities and prevents clogged pores for a radiant look and feel. Tip: Foaming cleanser is ideal for people with oily skin, and also for those with acne-prone or teenage skin.

Editor's Notes

During our cleansing gels & foam research, we found 306 cleansing gels & foam products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 581,566 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cleansing gels & foams list. We found that most customers choose cleansing gels & foams with an average price of £4.80.

The cleansing gels & foams are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cleansing gels & foams, including CeraVe, NIVEA, Cetaphil, Aveeno, Acnecide.

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.