Struggling with dry, tight, or flaky skin? You’re not alone! Dry skin needs extra care and attention, starting with the right cleanser. A gentle yet hydrating face wash is the foundation of a great skincare routine, ensuring that your skin stays nourished, comfortable, and balanced. The wrong cleanser can strip moisture, leaving your skin feeling even drier and more irritated—but the right one can soothe, replenish, and protect your skin barrier.
At Millies, we know that dry skin can be delicate and reactive, so we’ve carefully selected the best cleansers for dry skin in 2025. Whether you need a creamy, moisture-rich cleanser, a balm-to-oil formula, or a dermatologist-approved face wash, our top picks will help keep your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. Discover your perfect match below!
1. Elemis Sensitive Cleansing Wash
Explore the Elemis Skincare Range
If you have sensitive skin, this fragrance-free face wash is a game-changer. Infused with natural plant extracts, it soothes irritation while removing impurities. The ph-balanced formula supports the skin’s moisture barrier, making it ideal for eczema-prone skin or anyone experiencing dryness.
2. IMAGE Skincare Vital C Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Shop IMAGE Skincare’s Hydrating Collection
Looking for a nourishing, vitamin-packed cleanser? This formula contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which work together to lock in hydration and brighten dull skin. Its creamy texture makes it a great face wash for dry skin, leaving it plump and refreshed.
3. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
Discover CeraVe’s Dermatologist-Approved Formulas
Recommended by dermatologists, this gentle cleanser is formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to repair the skin’s barrier. Unlike traditional foaming cleansers, this cream-to-foam texture provides a deep clean without stripping moisture, making it one of the best face washes for sensitive skin.
4. SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser
View the SkinCeuticals Collection
If you struggle with tightness and irritation, this hydrating formula gently cleanses while replenishing essential lipids. The lightweight texture is perfect for those who want a non-greasy cleanser that leaves the skin feeling refreshed and comfortable.
5. Skingredients PreProbiotic Cleanse
Try Skingredients’ Prebiotic Cleanser
A skincare favourite, this prebiotic-rich cleanser is designed to balance the skin’s microbiome. It supports a healthy moisture barrier, ensuring your skin retains essential hydration while being thoroughly cleansed. This fragrance-free cleanser is particularly great for those with eczema-prone or sensitive skin.
6. ESPA Hydrating Cleansing Milk
Shop ESPA’s Luxurious Cleansers
Perfect for those who prefer a light, milky texture, this cleansing milk is packed with botanical extracts to gently cleanse while hydrating dry skin. The rich yet lightweight formula removes makeup and impurities while keeping your skin soft and supple.
7. Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser
Explore Dermalogica’s Hydration Range
Dry skin can often feel tight after cleansing, but this moisture-rich formula deeply hydrates while removing impurities. It contains nourishing lipids that reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier, preventing dehydration. Ideal for those who want a deep yet gentle cleanse.
8. Clarins Cleansing Milk with Alpine Herbs
View Clarins’ Cleansing Milk
If your skin is easily irritated, this soothing cleansing milk is infused with Alpine herbs to calm redness while delivering essential hydration. The non-stripping formula makes it a great face wash for sensitive skin, ensuring your complexion stays balanced and comfortable.
9. Pestle & Mortar Erase Balm Cleanser
Try Pestle & Mortar’s Hydrating Balm
For those who love a double-cleansing routine, this oil cleanser melts away makeup while nourishing the skin. It transforms from a balm-to-oil texture, helping to dissolve impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural hydration levels.
10. Environ Skin EssentiA Low Foam Cleansing Gel
Discover Environ's Hydrating Cleanser
This gentle gel cleanser effectively removes surface oils and impurities without drying out the skin or leaving it feeling tight. It's exceptionally easy to rinse and leaves a soft after-feel, making it ideal for those with dry skin seeking a refreshing cleanse
What to Look for in a Face Wash for Dry Skin?
Choosing the right cleanser for dry skin is essential for maintaining hydration. Here’s what to look for:
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Hydrating Ingredients – Look for hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and botanical oils to lock in moisture.
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Fragrance-Free Formulas – If your skin is easily irritated, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
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Oil or Cream Cleansers – Foaming cleansers can strip moisture, while oil cleansers help to nourish the skin barrier.
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pH-Balanced Options – A ph-balanced formula will cleanse without disrupting your skin’s natural defences.
How to Use Face Wash When You Have Sensitive Skin?
1. Use lukewarm water – Hot water can exacerbate dryness and irritation.
2. Apply a small amount of cleanser – A pea-sized amount is usually enough.
3. Massage gently in circular motions – Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, which can cause redness.
4. Rinse with cool or lukewarm water – To preserve hydration levels.
5. Follow with a hydrating toner and moisturiser – To lock in moisture.
Where to Get the Best Skincare for Dry Skin?
At Millies, we have a wide range of hydrating skincare solutions designed for dry and sensitive skin. Explore:
For more expert tips, check out our guide to managing dehydrated skin.
Find the Best Cleanser for Your Skin Today!
Choosing the right cleanser for dry skin is the first step in creating a hydrating skincare routine that keeps your complexion healthy, smooth, and glowing. By opting for a formula enriched with moisture-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and botanical oils, you can effectively cleanse without stripping away essential hydration.
At Millies, we offer a curated selection of top-rated cleansers designed specifically for dry and sensitive skin types. If you're still unsure which product suits your skin best, explore our hydrating skincare collection or check out our expert guide to managing dehydrated skin for even more tailored recommendations.
Investing in the right face wash for dry skin can make all the difference. Treat your skin to the best care possible and shop our top moisture-rich cleansers today
