Face Cleansers

A good cleanser removes makeup, sunscreen and the day's build-up without leaving skin tight or dry. This range brings together face wash and facial cleansers from CeraVe, Bioderma, Neutrogena, Elave and Garnier, including foaming gels, hydrating cleansers, micellar water and cleansing wipes.

Skin type is the best guide. Foaming cleansers, such as CeraVe Foaming Cleanser or Bioderma Sebium, suit normal to oily skin and leave a fresh, clean feel. Hydrating and oil-based formulas, like the CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser, suit dry skin that feels tight after washing. Micellar water, including Bioderma Sensibio H2O, lifts makeup on a cotton pad and is popular with sensitive skin. For blemish-prone skin, cleansers such as CeraVe Blemish Control are made for daily use on congested areas. Most people cleanse morning and evening, then follow with a moisturiser.

Every cleanser here is stocked at Leahy's Pharmacy, a family-run Irish pharmacy in Tralee, Co. Kerry, where our team can help you choose for your skin. If you have a skin condition such as eczema or rosacea, ask our pharmacist before changing your routine. To finish your routine, see our face moisturisers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which face wash suits oily or dry skin? +
Foaming gel cleansers, such as CeraVe Foaming Cleanser and Bioderma Sebium, suit normal to oily skin because they lift excess oil and leave a fresh feel. Dry skin usually prefers a hydrating, cream or oil-based cleanser, like the CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser, which cleans without stripping. If your skin feels tight after washing, your cleanser may be too strong for it.
Do I need to rinse off micellar water? +
Many micellar waters, including Bioderma Sensibio H2O, are designed so that you do not need to rinse, which suits sensitive skin and quick makeup removal. Some people still prefer to follow with water or a gentle face wash, especially after heavy makeup or sunscreen. Check the instructions on your bottle, as they vary between brands.
How often should I wash my face? +
Twice a day, morning and evening, suits most skin types. The evening cleanse matters most, as it removes makeup, sunscreen and the day's build-up. Washing more often, or with very hot water, can dry the skin out. If you exercise or have very oily skin, an extra gentle cleanse after a workout is usually fine.
Which cleanser is good for blemish-prone skin? +
Look for a cleanser made for blemish-prone or oily skin, such as CeraVe Blemish Control or Bioderma Sebium, and use it gently rather than scrubbing. Start with once a day if your skin is sensitive, and follow with a light, non-greasy moisturiser. If spots are painful, widespread or leaving marks, our pharmacist can advise whether to see your GP.