Top 10 Best Facial Cleansers Malaysia 2025 (All Skin Types)

Summary

Picking a facial cleanser need not be confusing. The main objective of applying cleansers on your skin is to remove makeup, dirt and impurities that may not be easily removed with just soap and water. It may be best also to know what your facial skin type is so you can narrow down your choices.

Many look for gentle cleansers so as to avoid unwanted irritation. If you are also one of these people, you may want to choose Simple Facial Wash, Skintific 5X Ceramide Low pH Gentle Cleanser or Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser. If you’re struggling with eczema and rosacea, you may want to look into the Cetaphil one. The former is a gel-type and the latter, liquid lotion. Both are suitable for all skin types.

If you are looking for a cleanser for deep cleaning, look into the Laneige Deep Cleanser or Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser.

If you are one of those with oily or acne prone skin, you may want to choose Hada Labo Blemish & Oil Control Wash or Innisfree Cleansing Foam.

Of course, these are only approximation as skincare and health is very individualized. So at the end of the day, best if we test it out ourselves but hopefully, we have helped you narrow down your choices.

Cleanser Buying Guide

Some experts recommend a facial wash that’s gentle which means the formula is mild, no matter your skin type. Also, depending on the person, you may want to avoid sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, or fragrance so as not to irritate your skin.

Don’t forget, facial cleansers generally will reduce your skin moisture. So you may want to also choose ones that not only clean, but also moisturize. Or get a separate moisturizer.

Lastly, it may be a good idea to choose a facial wash based off your skin type. It’s always wise to have some idea on the effects of various textures and ingredients found in facial wash/cleaners.

Cleansers For Dry Skin

For dry skin, look for a cleanser that is non-foaming and milky texture and has hydrating agents such as hyaluronic acid or aloe vera extract.

Cleansers For Combination or Acne Prone Skin

For combination and acne prone facial skin, look for a gel-type gentle cleanser with ingredients such as chemical exfoliants such as AHAs and BHAs.

How To Know Your Skin Type

There are generally five types of skin types: normal, dry, oily, combination (oily and dry) and sensitive. Ressearch suggests that our skin type is affected by genetics and other factors but may change over time.

There are many methods to check your skin type, including the bare face method and the blotting sheet method.

Blotting Sheet Method

1. Get a blotting paper and gently pat on different areas on your face.
2. See how much oil is picked up by the sheet.
3. If the sheet picks up a considerable amount of oil, you have oily skin. If there is little or no oil, you have dry skin, if there is oil when you apply the sheet on your T area, your skin is combination.

How To Apply Facial Wash

There are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to applying a facial cleanser, according to L’Oreal Paris.

First, ensure that you remove all make up and impurities with lukewarm water (not hot water!) and wash your hands thoroughly.

Next, apply a small amount to your face and massage it gently with the tips of your fingers, applying a small circular motion as you do. Rinse your face, again with lukewarm water so as not to strip your skin off its natural oils.

Finally, pat your face with a clean towel but leave a little it a little damp. Never rub your face dry. At this stage, it may be a good time to apply a moisturizer if you need it, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.