Picking the best face washes for men used to mean grabbing whatever bar soap sat by the sink. After three months of side-by-side testing on ten different formulas across our team’s oily, dry, sensitive, and combination skin types, I can tell you that bar soap is officially out. A proper face wash for men does more than lift grime — it balances oil, supports the skin barrier, and preps your face for a closer shave.
Men produce up to 25 percent more sebum than women thanks to testosterone, which means our pores stay busier and our T-zone shines sooner. Add daily shaving, sweat, and city pollution, and a basic cleanser just can’t keep up. I dug into the formulas, ingredient lists, and tens of thousands of verified reviews to bring you the ten best face washes for men in 2026 — picks that work in real life, not just in the lab.
If you’ve ever ended a wash with tight, squeaky-clean skin that felt oily again two hours later, you’re not alone. Reviewers on r/SkincareAddiction call this the “strip and rebound” cycle, and it usually means your cleanser is too harsh. The picks below are designed to clean without stripping, with options for every skin type and budget. Let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Face Washes for Men
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
- Foaming gel with ceramides
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-developed formula
NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration
- Provitamin B5 and Aloe Vera
- Hydrating 3X clean effect
- Removes impurities without drying
Dove Men+Care Hydrate Plus
- Replenishes moisture while cleansing
- Mild creamy formula
- Rinses clean without stripping
Best Face Washes for Men in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser |
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| NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration Face Wash |
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| Dove Men+Care Hydrate Plus Face Wash |
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 Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser |
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 L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Charcoal Cleanser |
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 Brickell Men’s Purifying Charcoal Face Wash |
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 Lumin Charcoal Face Wash |
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 NIVEA MEN Sensitive Face Wash |
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 Harry’s Exfoliating Face Wash |
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 Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Men’s Energizing Face Wash |
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1. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser – Dermatologist-Recommended All-Rounder
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, Face Wash for Oily Skin, 16fl oz
Foaming gel
16 fl oz
Ceramides + hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Effectively removes oil without drying
- Fragrance-free and gentle
- Dermatologist-developed formula
- Non-comedogenic
- Massive 16 fl oz size for daily use
Cons
- May feel slightly drying on already-dry skin
CeraVe’s Foaming Facial Cleanser earned the top spot on our list for good reason. It carries a 4.8-star average across more than 104,000 reviews, making it the most-validated men’s face wash we tested. Our team used it for six weeks across combination, oily, and sensitive skin types, and every tester came back with the same verdict: clean skin without that stripped, tight feeling.
The formula centers on three essential ceramides that reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier while a foaming gel lifts oil and grime. It is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and gentle enough for twice-daily use. Reviewers on r/SkincareAddiction frequently recommend CeraVe as a starter cleanser because it plays nicely with the rest of a routine — no fragrance to clash with your actives, no heavy oils to clog pores.
The 16 fl oz bottle outlasted every other cleanser in our rotation. One tester with oily T-zone skin reported noticeably less midday shine after two weeks, while our dry-skin tester said it cleaned thoroughly without the burning sensation they’d had with cheaper foaming washes. If your face ever feels red or irritated after washing, our guide on why your face turns red after washing explains how fragrance and surfactants are usually the culprit — and why this CeraVe formula avoids both.
CeraVe has been developed with dermatologists and is the brand most often cited by skincare professionals as a safe daily option. For our team, the combination of a gentle formula, a huge review base, and a large bottle made it the easy pick for our top slot.
Who should buy it
Anyone with normal, oily, or combination skin who wants a fragrance-free cleanser that pulls double-duty morning and night. If you wear sunscreen or work out daily, the foaming action lifts residue without leaving a film behind.
Who should skip it
Men with very dry or eczema-prone skin may want a cream cleanser instead. The foaming surfactants, while gentle, can feel slightly tight on already-compromised skin barriers.
2. NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration Face Wash – Best for Dry Skin
NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration Face Wash, Provitamin B5 and Aloe Vera, 5 FL OZ
Hydrating wash
5 fl oz
Provitamin B5 + Aloe Vera
Pros
- Hydrates without drying
- Great scent and lather
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Supports moisture barrier
- Trusted by 12k+ reviewers
Cons
- Scent may be too strong for fragrance-free purists
NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration is the bottle our testers kept reaching for during winter. With Provitamin B5 and Aloe Vera at the core of the formula, it cleans thoroughly while leaving behind a layer of hydration. The 12,000-plus review count and 4.6-star average make it one of the most-trusted drugstore face washes for men in 2026.
Our dry-skin tester called it the first wash that didn’t leave his face feeling like sandpaper. The “3X clean effect” claim — NIVEA’s way of describing how it removes impurities, refreshes the skin, and supports the moisture barrier in one step — held up under our testing. Lather is rich, the scent is classic NIVEA clean, and a single 5 fl oz tube lasted our tester about six weeks of twice-daily use.
One subtle thing I noticed during testing: the formula rinses fully without residue. A lot of hydrating cleansers leave a faint film that interferes with shaving or sunscreen absorption. This one does not. Reviewers on r/AskMen often flag it as their go-to budget pick for post-shave comfort, which matches our team’s experience.
The 5 fl oz size is travel-friendly and fits easily in a gym bag. If you cycle between a cleanser for your face and one for your beard, this one works on both without drying out the skin underneath.
Who should buy it
Men with dry, flaky, or post-shave-sensitive skin who want a hydrating daily cleanser that punches above its price point. Also a strong pick if you live in a cold or low-humidity climate.
Who should skip it
If you strongly prefer fragrance-free products, the classic NIVEA scent may bother you. For an unscented alternative, see our sensitive-skin pick further down.
3. Dove Men Face Wash Hydrate Plus – Affordable Daily Cleanser
Dove Men Face Wash Hydrate Plus 5 oz
Hydrating cream
5 oz
Replenishing formula
Pros
- Replenishes moisture while cleansing
- Mild non-stripping wash
- Rinses off easily
- Good value in multi-packs
- Helpful for beard dandruff
Cons
- Cream consistency not for gel lovers
- May need extra moisturizer for very dry skin
Dove Men+Care Hydrate Plus is the underdog of our list. With a 4.6-star average across 6,000-plus reviews, it delivers hydration-focused cleansing at a price that fits any budget. Our budget-conscious tester called it the most underrated face wash in the men’s aisle, and after three weeks of use, I agree.
The creamy texture feels different from the foaming washes above. It glides on, lifts dirt, and rinses clean without the tight pull of harsher surfactants. Reviewers who deal with beard dandruff and dryness under the chin frequently mention this formula as a fix, since it doesn’t strip the natural oils that protect the skin beneath facial hair.
During our testing, I found it performed best as a morning cleanser or as the second step in a double-cleanse routine. After a sweaty workout or a long day outdoors, I’d reach for the CeraVe foaming wash first, then follow up with this Dove for comfort. Reviewers on r/AskMen often praise this combination for men transitioning from bar soap to a real face care routine.
If you’re building a men’s skincare routine on a budget, this is the bottle to start with. It is widely available, easy to find, and forgiving enough for first-time cleanser users.
Who should buy it
Men with dry or normal skin, anyone dealing with beard dandruff, and beginners who want a gentle introduction to dedicated face washing.
Who should skip it
Men who prefer gel or foaming textures may find the cream consistency underwhelming. If you have very oily skin and want stronger sebum control, a charcoal-based formula is a better fit.
4. Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser – Premium Sulfate-Free
Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser for Men – 2-in-1 Mens Facial Cleanser & Toner, 16 Fl Oz
Sulfate-free
2-in-1 cleanser + toner
Organic botanicals
Pros
- Dual-purpose cleanser and toner
- Sulfate-free and gentle
- Certified organic ingredients
- Works for all skin types
- Leaves skin hydrated
Cons
- Premium price point
Jack Black’s Pure Clean is the upgrade pick for men who want one bottle that handles cleansing and toning. With a 4.7-star average over 5,000-plus reviews, it sits comfortably in the premium tier without losing the daily-driver reliability. Our tester with sensitive skin called it the gentlest formula in the entire roundup.
The sulfate-free surfactant system is built from oat and coconut derivatives, while witch hazel acts as a natural astringent. Certified organic sage, rosemary, chamomile, and aloe bring soothing properties that reviewers with rosacea and post-shave irritation consistently flag as effective.
What I liked most during testing was the dual-action. After rinsing, my skin felt clean and prepped for the next step — no need for a separate toner. The pump bottle dispenses a controlled amount, and the formula is unscented enough to avoid clashes with cologne or aftershave.
Reviewers on r/SkincareAddiction frequently cite Jack Black as a clean-beauty option in the men’s space. If ingredient transparency matters to you, the certified organic callouts are a real trust signal.
Who should buy it
Men with sensitive or reactive skin who want a clean-beauty formula, and anyone who prefers to streamline their routine with a 2-in-1 product.
Who should skip it
Budget shoppers. The premium positioning means a higher price tag than the drugstore picks above. If you want similar gentleness at a lower cost, NIVEA MEN Sensitive is a strong runner-up.
5. L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Facial Cleanser with Charcoal
L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Facial Cleanser with Charcoal, 2 ct.
Charcoal detox
2-count pack
Fights 5 grime problems
Pros
- Charcoal pulls out impurities
- Black-to-white foam novelty
- Fights oily skin and clogged pores
- Leaves skin looking fresh
- Great value 2-pack
Cons
- May be too active for very sensitive skin
L’Oreal’s Men Expert Hydra Energetic cleanser is our pick for oily and combination skin. The 4.6-star average over 5,000-plus reviews backs up its reputation as a daily detox. Our oily-skin tester reported the most dramatic reduction in midday shine of any product in this roundup.
The black gel turns into a rich white foam as you lather, which makes it fun to use. More importantly, the activated charcoal in the formula pulls excess oil and city grime out of pores without the harsh stripping effect of stronger clay masks. Reviewers consistently note that skin feels fresh after rinsing — not tight.
The 2-count pack is a practical bonus. One bottle lives by the shower, the other stays in a gym bag or travel kit. For men who live in polluted urban areas or hit the gym daily, the formula’s claim of fighting “five problems caused by city grime” — oily skin, shininess, dirt, sticky touch, and clogged pores — held up under our testing.
This is also one of the best entry-level charcoal cleansers on the market. If you’ve never tried charcoal on your skin, this is a low-commitment way to test the category.
Who should buy it
Men with oily or combination skin, anyone living in polluted urban environments, and gym-goers who want a post-workout deep clean.
Who should skip it
If you have very dry or sensitive skin, the charcoal detox action may be too much. Pair this with a richer moisturizer to balance the formula.
6. Brickell Men’s Purifying Charcoal Face Wash – Pre-Shave Prep
Brickell Men’s Purifying Charcoal Face Wash for Men, Daily Facial Cleanser, With Charcoal, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid, 8 Ounce, Scented
Charcoal + Vitamin E
8 oz bottle
Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Deep-cleans pores without drying
- Leaves skin refreshed and hydrated
- Pleasant non-overpowering scent
- Economical — a little goes a long way
- Great pre-shave prep
Cons
- Does not lather heavily
Brickell’s Purifying Charcoal cleanser is the men’s grooming classic on this list. With a 4.4-star average across 6,000-plus reviews and a built-in audience on GQ and Men’s Health, it’s been a steady performer for over a decade. Our pre-shave tester reported the smoothest shaves of the entire testing period after switching to this formula.
The blend of activated charcoal, olive oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera, and Vitamin E is more sophisticated than the typical charcoal cleanser. Instead of stripping, it conditions as it cleans. Hyaluronic acid adds a hydration layer that reviewers with combination skin particularly appreciate.
What stood out during testing: a tiny amount goes a long way. One pump covered my full face and neck, and the 8 oz bottle outlasted the foaming cleansers in our rotation. The scent is subtle and clean — closer to a light cologne than a typical drugstore face wash.
Reviewers who shave daily say this formula softens beard hairs and lifts them away from the skin, which leads to less razor drag. If you want to step up your pre-shave routine without buying a separate pre-shave oil, this is a smart shortcut.
Who should buy it
Men who shave daily or every other day and want a cleanser that doubles as a pre-shave prep. Also a strong fit if you prefer low-lather, conditioning cleansers over sudsy formulas.
Who should skip it
If you love a thick, foamy lather, this formula won’t deliver that experience. Reach for the NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration instead.
7. Lumin Charcoal Face Wash – Korean-Formula Detox
Lumin Charcoal Face Wash for Men | Daily Detox & Pore Cleansing | 3.4oz
Korean formula
3.4 oz
Charcoal + botanicals
Pros
- Deep-clean without over-drying
- Activated charcoal unclogs pores
- Gentle exfoliation
- Made for men's thicker skin
- Korean beauty credibility
Cons
- Smaller bottle size
- Pricey per ounce
Lumin’s Charcoal Face Wash brings a Korean beauty perspective to the men’s category. With a 4.5-star average over 5,000-plus reviews, it has built a loyal following among men who want smoother, brighter skin without the aggressive exfoliation of scrubs. Our tester with dullness and rough texture called it the most “skin-smoothing” formula in the roundup.
The Korean formula blends activated charcoal with moisturizing botanical extracts. The result is a wash that lifts dead skin cells and unclogs pores while preventing the dryness common with charcoal products. Reviewers consistently note fewer breakouts and smoother texture after two to three weeks of use.
During testing, I used it every other day rather than twice daily. The gentle exfoliation is mild enough for daily use, but pairing it with a softer daily cleanser on off-days kept my skin balanced. If you’re new to chemical or physical exfoliation, our guide on how often you should exfoliate your face walks through safe frequencies for men.
The 3.4 oz bottle is the smallest on our list, which is something to keep in mind. Lumin positions this as a daily-driver product, and many reviewers order the multi-pack for value.
Who should buy it
Men with dull, rough, or uneven texture who want gentle exfoliation. Also a strong pick if you’re curious about Korean skincare formulas and want an entry-level option.
Who should skip it
If you want maximum value per ounce, the smaller bottle is a drawback. The CeraVe foaming cleanser delivers similar pore benefits at a larger size.
8. NIVEA MEN Sensitive Face Wash – Gentle Choice for Reactive Skin
NIVEA MEN Sensitive Face Wash, Gentle Face Cleanser for Men, 5 FL OZ
Soap-free + alcohol-free
5 fl oz
Vitamin E + Chamomile
Pros
- Specifically for sensitive skin
- Soap-free and alcohol-free
- Moisturizing VitaminPro Complex
- Gentle for daily use
- Supports skin's defense
Cons
- Not deep-cleansing for very oily skin
NIVEA MEN Sensitive is the soap-free, alcohol-free formula for men whose skin reacts to almost everything. With a 4.5-star average over 5,000-plus reviews, it’s the go-to sensitive-skin pick on our list. Our most reactive tester — a team member with mild rosacea — reported zero irritation over four weeks of twice-daily use.
The VitaminPro Complex combines Vitamin E, Provitamin B5, and Chamomile extract. Together they cleanse, calm, and support the skin barrier without stripping the natural oils that sensitive skin depends on. Reviewers with eczema, dermatitis, and post-shave burning consistently flag this as their safe daily option.
What I appreciated during testing was how quiet the formula felt. No fragrance, no menthol, no tingling. Just a clean rinse and comfortable skin afterward. If you’ve been bouncing between harsher cleansers trying to find one that doesn’t burn, this is the bottle to settle on.
The 5 fl oz tube fits easily in a dopp kit or gym bag. For men who travel frequently, this is also one of the safer picks to bring on flights.
Who should buy it
Men with sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin, anyone recovering from over-exfoliation or harsh actives, and travelers who need a gentle daily option.
Who should skip it
If you have very oily skin and need a stronger sebum regulator, the gentle formula won’t deliver the deep-clean feel you want. Pair it with a charcoal wash a few times a week instead.
9. Harry’s Exfoliating Face Wash – Volcanic Rock Scrub
Harry’s Exfoliating Face Wash for Men – 5.1 fl oz (3 Pack)
Volcanic rock
3-pack 5.1 fl oz
Pre-shave prep
Pros
- Gentle daily exfoliation
- Volcanic rock and essential oils
- Great pre-shave preparation
- Good value in 3-pack
- Leaves skin clean and smooth
Cons
- May be too harsh for very sensitive skin
Harry’s Exfoliating Face Wash is the answer for men who want a daily scrub without the aggressive beads of older formulas. With a 4.6-star average over 3,000-plus reviews, it has built a reputation as a reliable pre-shave exfoliator. Our tester with ingrown-prone skin reported fewer bumps after three weeks of use.
The volcanic rock particles are fine enough to use twice daily without micro-tears, which is rare in the men’s exfoliating category. Essential oils add a light scent that reviewers describe as clean and masculine without being overpowering. The 3-pack is excellent value if you split it across home, gym, and travel kits.
During testing, I used this as my morning cleanser on shave days and noticed a real difference in razor glide. The exfoliation lifts dead skin so the blade catches hair flat against the surface rather than skipping over bumps. Reviewers who shave their neck and jawline consistently flag this benefit.
If you’re new to exfoliating, ease into this one. Start every other day for the first week, then build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it. Over-exfoliation is a common mistake, especially when combined with retinol or strong actives.
Who should buy it
Men who shave frequently and want a smoother result, anyone dealing with ingrown hairs or rough texture, and value-conscious buyers who want a multi-pack.
Who should skip it
Very sensitive or eczema-prone skin may react to the physical exfoliation. The NIVEA MEN Sensitive or Jack Black formulas are safer alternatives.
10. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Men’s Energizing Face Wash – Morning Pick-Me-Up
Kiehl’s – Facial Fuel Men’s Energizing Face Wash – 8.4 fl oz
Caffeine + Menthol
Refreshing gel
Men's energizing
Pros
- Energizing caffeine formula
- Removes oil and impurities
- Refreshing menthol finish
- Vitamin E for free radicals
- Designed for men's skin
Cons
- Smaller bottle size
- May feel too active for sensitive skin
Kiehl’s Facial Fuel rounds out our list as the morning pick-me-up. With a 4.6-star average over 2,000-plus reviews, it has a smaller but loyal following. Our tester who works early shifts called it the only formula that actually made him feel awake before coffee.
The caffeine-and-menthol combo delivers an invigorating tingle that wakes up dull, tired skin. Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals from overnight exposure, while the gel formula rinses cleanly without residue. Reviewers who use it as a pre-workout face wash report a similar energizing effect.
During testing, I learned that a small amount really does go a long way. The bottle is the smallest on our list by weight, but the formula is concentrated. One tester said a single tube lasted him nearly four months of daily use, which makes the higher price point easier to justify.
Kiehl’s has been around since 1851, and the Facial Fuel line has been a staple in their men’s collection for years. If you trust heritage brands and want a morning routine that feels like a small ritual, this is a strong pick.
Who should buy it
Men who want an energizing morning cleanser, anyone dealing with dull or tired-looking skin, and shoppers who prefer heritage grooming brands.
Who should skip it
Very sensitive skin may react to the menthol. The cooling sensation is intense, which is great for most skin types but not ideal for reactive skin or rosacea.
How to Choose the Right Face Wash for Your Skin Type
Picking the best face washes for men comes down to matching the formula to your skin type. Our team broke it down by category so you can self-select without guesswork.
Oily skin: Reach for charcoal-based formulas like the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic. Salicylic acid is your friend because it penetrates pores and dissolves the oil plugs that lead to breakouts. Niacinamide is a bonus ingredient — it regulates sebum production over time and reduces the look of enlarged pores.
Dry skin: Pick hydrating formulas with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane. The NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration and Dove Men+Care Hydrate Plus are both built for dry skin types. Avoid anything that leaves your face feeling tight — that “squeaky clean” sensation is your moisture barrier signaling distress.
Sensitive skin: Fragrance-free and soap-free formulas are the safest bet. Our sensitive-skin picks — Jack Black Pure Clean and NIVEA MEN Sensitive — both skip fragrance and alcohol. Look for soothing ingredients like chamomile, aloe, and allantoin on the ingredient list.
Combination skin: A gentle foaming cleanser like CeraVe works well across both the oily T-zone and the drier cheeks. You can also rotate between two cleansers — a hydrating one in the morning and a charcoal-based one at night after workouts.
Normal skin: You have the most flexibility. Any of the ten picks above will work, so choose based on the extras you want — exfoliation, energizing scent, pre-shave prep, or simply the best value per ounce.
Key ingredients to look for
Salicylic acid (BHA) unclogs pores and fights acne. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) regulates oil and calms redness. Hyaluronic acid pulls moisture into the skin. Ceramides reinforce the skin barrier. Activated charcoal lifts oil and impurities. Caffeine energizes and reduces puffiness.
Ingredients to avoid
Heavy synthetic fragrance is the most common irritant in men’s face washes. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a harsher surfactant that can disrupt the skin barrier. Drying alcohols like SD alcohol denat can leave skin tight and trigger rebound oiliness. If you see any of these high on the ingredient list and you have sensitive skin, choose a different bottle.
How to wash your face properly
Use lukewarm water — hot water strips oils and cold water doesn’t dissolve grime well. Massage a small amount onto damp skin for 30 to 60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Pat dry with a clean towel; don’t rub. Follow with a moisturizer within 60 seconds to lock in hydration. Wash twice daily — morning to remove overnight build-up and night to clear the day’s sweat, sunscreen, and pollution.
When to upgrade your routine
If you’ve been using the same cleanser for years with no issues, there’s no rush to switch. But if you’re noticing new breakouts, tightness, or midday shine, it’s worth rotating in a targeted formula. Reviewers on r/SkincareAddiction often recommend changing cleansers seasonally — a lighter foaming wash in summer and a richer hydrating one in winter. For broader routine upgrades beyond cleansing, our guide on how to lose face fat covers lifestyle factors that affect facial appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Final Verdict
After three months of side-by-side testing, our team’s pick for the best face washes for men in 2026 is the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser. It tops the list with a 4.8-star average across 104,000-plus reviews, a dermatologist-developed formula, and a gentle foaming action that works across oily, combination, and normal skin types without stripping the barrier.
If you’re shopping by skin type, our other top picks cover the rest of the field: NIVEA MEN Maximum Hydration for dry skin, NIVEA MEN Sensitive for reactive skin, L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic for oily skin, and Jack Black Pure Clean for a clean-beauty premium option. Any of the ten face washes for men in this roundup will outperform bar soap — the important step is just getting started.
Once you’ve nailed your cleanser, the natural next steps are exfoliation, treatment serums, and targeted devices. Our guides on microcurrent devices for face lifting and red light therapy devices for the face walk through the tools that pair well with a solid cleansing routine. Pick the wash that matches your skin, use it twice daily, and you’ll see the difference within two weeks.