The Best Face Washes for 2012
Many people update their wardrobe or hairstyle from year to year, but 2012 might be a good year to make sure you have the best face wash too! Unlike clothes or accessories, face washes don't go out of fashion, and you don't need to pursue the latest face wash trends. What you do need, however, is to evaluate whether your face wash is nurturing your skin. Is it gentle enough, and does it clean effectively? If the product you're relying on isn't satisfactory, try one of these cleansers to give your skin the care it deserves.
Aveeno Smart Essentials Pore Purifying Facial Wash
This face wash from Aveeno is made with Southernwood extract, a natural substance that promotes healthy skin. When you use this face wash, you'll get rid of dirt and control oil. What you won't be getting rid of is the moisture that maintains your skin's softness and smoothness. A six-ounce bottle sells for only $5.59 on Drugstore.com.
Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser
The salicylic acid in this cleanser wasn't conjured up in a lab; Neutrogena takes this natural ingredient from willowbark. Thanks to that salicylic acid, this face wash has the power to clean deep in your skin. The cleanser goes all the way to the bottom of pores to get rid of dirt and excess oil. It can even remove your makeup too! It also washes clean, which is important because you don't want a product you use on your face to clog your pores all over again. As with all products in the Neutrogena Naturals line, you won't find any parabens, petrochemicals, or phthalates in this cleanser. A six-ounce bottle costs $6.49.
Radiance Facial Cleanser
This face wash comes in the form of a lightweight lotion. One of the key ingredients is royal jelly, which is made with nectar, pollen, and lots of amino acids and vitamins. The cleanser's jojoba beads and fruit acids gently exfoliate and keep your skin healthy. Plus, this cleanser doubles as a makeup remover. It can be used in conjunction with other products in the Radiance line like the day creme and day lotion. A six-ounce bottle is priced at $10.00.
Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial Wash
This gel-based face wash gets rid of unwanted oil and tackles blemishes before they appear. The Body Shop makes this face wash with Community Trade tea tree oil from Kenya, so your purchase supports the Body Shop's global values. Another important ingredient in the face wash is tamanu oil, which is sourced from Madagascar. Tamanu oil cuts down on irritation so your skin feels comforted. This face wash is so gentle that you can use it every day. An 8.4-ounce bottle sells for $11.00, and a miniature 2-ounce bottle sells for $4.00.
Yes to Cucumbers Gentle Milk Cleanser
If the standard face washes leave your skin red and itchy, try the Yes to Cucumbers Gentle Milk Cleanser. It's formulated to soothe your skin, even if your complexion is extra sensitive. The soy proteins in this cleanser moisturize your skin, while the green tea makes your face delightfully soft. This cleanser has been tested by dermatologists and is hypoallergenic. It contains no parabens or phthalates. A six-ounce bottle costs $8.99. You may like to pair this face wash with the Yes to Cucumbers facial towelettes or night cream.
