The Best La Roche-Posay Cleansers

Cleansing is a vital step in your skincare routine. It helps to remove impurities and refresh the skin after a long day. However, it can be difficult to find the right cleanser for you as everyone's skin is different and there is no one-size fits all when it comes it skincare.

La Roche-Posay is a specialist French brand that offers a range of cleansers for a variety of skin types, conditions and concerns. In this article, we will explore how to find the right cleanser for your skin and take a look at two ranges from La Roche-Posay that offer some excellent cleansers.

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Finding the right cleanser for your skin

Using a facial cleanser should be an important part of any skincare regimen. However, choosing the wrong cleanser for your skin type, concern or condition could cause irritation and sensitivity, drying the skin out and making it feel tight.

To find the right cleanser for you, start by determining what your skin type is and identifying any associated conditions or skin concerns you may have. The easiest way to do this is to wash your face, wait for 15 minutes, then assess your complexion before applying any makeup or additional skincare products.

If you have dry skin, you should opt for a hydrating cleanser that helps the skin retain moisture. This could be an oil or cream-based product that prevents further dryness or dehydration in the skin. Sensitive or irritated skin can often be the most difficult to find suitable products for. A gentle cream cleanser which has a minimal formula and is designed to protect the skin's natural protective barrier is the ideal for this skin type.

For oily skin types, characterised by excess sebum, oil build-up or shine, a cleansing gel or foam may be preferred. These products would also benefit those with combination skin, as milder formulations can help you feel fresh without stripping away the skin's essential oils. Even if you have oily skin, it is important to not strip all the oil from your skin to keep it healthy.

La Roche-Posay has a selection of excellent cleansers designed to exfoliate dead skin, unblock clogged pores and rid the skin of impurities while providing vital hydration.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane cleansers

Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser

The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Gel Cleanser is a softening gel-based face wash that can remove makeup and environmental impurities. Suitable for all skin types, it can even be used on intolerant skin. Containing hard water-neutralising EDTA, as well as richly moisturising glycerine, this product is soap and preservative-free. Use this cleanser in the morning and evening for the best results, forming the product into a foam with warm water before massaging gently into the face and neck then rinsing away. Your skin will be left feeling supple, balanced and protected.

Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser

The Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser is a cleanser and makeup remover that can be used with or without water. It is suitable for all skin types but is particularly recommended for skin which is ultra-sensitive, allergy-prone or intolerant. Dermatologically active ingredients and soothing thermal spring water provide a gentle yet effective treatment that will remove impurities without irritating the skin. This product is also non-comedogenic, so will not clog the pores. To use, apply to the face with the fingertips or cotton wool then wipe away a damp cloth or more cotton wool. The skin will feel soothed, repaired and less dry.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar cleansers

Effaclar Micro Peeling Purifying Gel

For skin which is oily or prone to acne and blemishes, we recommend the alcohol-free Effaclar Micro Peeling Purifying Gel. Active ingredients in this cleanser include salicylic acid, zinc and LHA, as well as La Roche-Posay’s signature thermal spring water. Through micro-exfoliation, the cleanser will decongest the pores and skin of bacteria and impurities while also keeping breakouts and excess sebum production under control. To use the Micro Peeling Purifying Gel, simply massage into damp skin in the morning and evening then rinse it off with clean water.

Effaclar H Derma-Soothing Hydrating Cleansing Cream

The Effaclar H Derma-Soothing Hydrating Cleansing Cream has a soothing formula that has been specially created for oily skin that has grown weaker over time due to persistent treatments for recurring acne and other skin conditions. This rich cleansing cream contains niacinamide and zinc to relieve tightness and rebalance the complexion without over-drying the skin. Simply lather a small amount into the palm using water then gently apply to the face in single strokes from the centre outwards. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry, and expect soothed skin which looks and feels refreshed.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between cleansers and toners?

There is a notable difference between cleansers and toners. Cleansers are used to remove makeup, oil and dirt from your skin, while toners should by the next step in your routine to tighten the pores once the bacteria and impurities have been removed by your cleanser.

Can washing your face too much cause pimples?

Washing your face too much may irritate your skin and dry it out, which can cause breakouts. Read our guide to the best La Roche-Posay products for acne to find the best products for tackling persistent acne and regular breakouts

What are the best La Roche-Posay moisturisers?

The Effaclar range is specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin; we recommend the Effaclar H and Effaclar Duo SPF moisturisers to hydrate the skin and control oil production. For skin which is dry or easily irritated, try the Hydraphase Intense Riche or the Toleriane Sensitive Cream.