How to Choose the Best Cleanser for Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, you’re probably familiar with how certain irritating ingredients, like acids and retinoids, can worsen dryness. But there are many other factors that can contribute to skin dehydration and flakiness, such as the weather, lifestyle, and even the way you cleanse your skin. A tight, uncomfortable feeling after cleansing is a hallmark of dry skin, so if this sounds familiar, it’s a good indicator that your skin is dry.

It’s important to note that the way you cleanse (and the products you use) could be contributing to your skin’s dryness rather than the other way around. Over-cleansing, for example, can strip the skin and aggravate dryness. If you want your skin to look and feel its best, it’s essential to know how to cleanse dry skin correctly.

This can be a bit tricky—especially with so many different cleansers available. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. With nearly 170 years of experience, we’ve gained a deep understanding of what dry skin needs and doesn’t need. Keep reading for our top recommendations for dry skin cleansers and some expert tips for keeping your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated.

Tip 1: Choose the Right Cleanser for Your Needs

One of the most effective ways to manage dry skin is to choose a cleanser that meets your specific needs. The term “dry skin�?refers to a range of symptoms, not a one-size-fits-all condition. In other words, not all dry skin is the same, and understanding your skin’s characteristics is key to choosing the right products. Here are some of the best cleansers for dry skin:

For Combination Dry Skin:

Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash

For combination dry skin, where some areas are normal while others are dry (and sometimes oily), we recommend the Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash. This gentle foaming cleanser, enriched with calendula extract and glycerin, helps remove dirt and impurities without stripping the skin. It’s ideal for use both morning and evening to refresh and revitalize the skin.

For Dry, Acne-Prone Skin:

Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Cleanser

It’s a common misconception that only oily skin is prone to acne. In fact, anyone—regardless of skin type—can experience persistent breakouts. Unfortunately, the combination of dry skin and acne can be difficult to treat, as many acne-fighting ingredients (like salicylic acid) can also be very drying. To manage dry, acne-prone skin without worsening dryness, try the Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Cleanser. This unique cleanser contains 96.7% natural ingredients, including hemp seed oil and oregano oil, which work together to cleanse problem skin while soothing redness and discomfort, leaving the skin looking healthier.

Tip 2: Cleanse Correctly

You probably already know how to wash your face, but some seemingly harmless habits may actually exacerbate dryness and irritation.

One of the most common mistakes people make when cleansing is using hot water. While hot water feels soothing, especially in cold weather, it can strip moisture from your skin and lead to dehydration. Hot water can also intensify irritation, such as redness, if you have sensitive skin. Instead, opt for lukewarm or cool water when cleansing your face. Your skin will thank you for it.

Another habit that can contribute to or worsen dryness is over-cleansing. While it’s important to cleanse daily, be cautious with products that contain chemical exfoliants or other irritating ingredients if your skin is already dry or sensitive. Avoid combining too many harsh ingredients, like facial scrubs and acids, in one cleaning session. Allow time between exfoliating or active ingredient treatments to let your skin recover.

Lastly, when using a facial scrub, remember to be gentle. Overdoing it can damage your skin’s barrier and exacerbate dryness. Apply scrub in light circular motions, and if your skin is very irritated, skip it entirely—at least until your skin has healed.

Tip 3: Tone After Cleansing

Cleansing is a crucial step in the skincare routine for dry skin, but it shouldn’t be the only step. After cleansing, you must follow up with a toner to soothe the skin and remove any lingering residue from the cleanser.

For dry skin, we recommend using a Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner. This toner contains cooling cucumber extract and allantoin to help tone and balance dry skin. It’s one of the gentlest toners, making it perfect for all skin types, including dry, irritated, and sensitive skin.

Tip 4: Don’t Skimp on Hydration

Don’t forget that after cleansing and toning, your skin needs plenty of hydration. In addition to moisturizing, be sure to use a facial oil daily to keep your skin’s barrier hydrated and healthy.

For daytime use, we recommend the Daily Reviving Concentrate Face Oil, which offers antioxidant protection against free radicals, reduces signs of fatigue, and leaves your skin glowing.

At night, switch to the Midnight Recovery Concentrate Face Oil. This nighttime treatment replenishes essential moisture and helps the skin stay soft, plump, and hydrated as you sleep.

After applying facial oil, follow up with a moisturizer. For dry skin, we recommend the Ultra Facial Cream, a lightweight but deeply hydrating moisturizer formulated with olive-derived squalane and glacier protein. It provides 24-hour moisture, making even the driest areas feel soft and smooth, while balancing hydration for a healthier-looking complexion. It’s one of our bestsellers and frequently recommended for its ability to improve the overall health of dry skin with regular use.

By following these tips and using the right products, you can effectively care for your dry skin and keep it nourished, hydrated, and comfortable.