Editor tip: “Cleansers can be a great way of adding exfoliating ingredients because these ingredients can still be effective with relatively brief contact,” says Dr. King. For example, “Alpha hydroxy acids can be helpful for addressing age spots, fine lines, and dullness,” she adds.
Key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, malic acid, salicylic acid | Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser
Philosophy
Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser
Why we love it: “Philosophy’s Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser is a standout for mature skin because it gently removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin,” says Dr. Amin. “This dual cleansing system does the job—cleaning thoroughly while keeping your skin hydrated, thanks to glycerin and meadowfoam seed oil.” It provides a deep clean while leaving the skin refreshed and hydrated, making it a great option for addressing common concerns like dryness and dullness,” she says. The texture is silky and lotion-like—delicately gentle and pleasant, with a subtle, fresh scent that’s light and never overpowering.
Editor tip: Meadowfoam seed oil is lightweight yet deeply nourishing. It mimics your skin’s natural lipids to keep it soft and hydrated.
Key ingredients: glycerin, meadowfoam seed oil | Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Why we love it: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, one of the OG products when the drugstore brand launched 20 years ago, was created with a mission to focus on what matters: keeping your skin barrier happy. Packed with three essential ceramides, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and a creamy, non-foaming texture, it gently cleanses while locking in moisture. It’s no wonder derms still swear by it. “This gentle formula is amazing for supporting the skin barrier, plus, it’s affordable, accessible, and fragrance-free—a win for mature skin that is sensitive or dry,” says Dr. Collins.
Editor’s tip: Hyaluronic acid is essential for maintaining your skin’s moisture levels. It helps your skin stay smooth, hydrated, and plump.
Key ingredients: ceramide, hyaluronic acid | Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best facial cleanser for mature skin?
The best facial cleanser for mature skin should check off a few boxes—namely, they should “prioritize hydration, barrier support, and gentle cleansing,” says Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, who cites ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, as well as green tea extract and vitamin E for antioxidant protection. “Cream cleansers and oil-based formulations are ideal as they effectively remove impurities without stripping natural oils,” she adds.
What should an older woman wash her face with?
As your skin gets older (and wiser!), it needs a little extra TLC in the cleansing department to keep it looking and feeling its best. Natural oil production decreases, leading to dryness and a weakened skin barrier, so older women benefit from using hydrating cleansers to restore moisture. Dullness becomes more noticeable as cell turnover slows, so incorporating a cleanser with mild alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid can help gently exfoliate and reveal brighter, smoother skin. “Those with mature skin should avoid sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate, harsh alcohols, and high concentrations of acids, as they can strip moisture and exacerbate dryness or sensitivity,” says Dr. Collins.
What is a good skin-care routine for mature skin?
A solid skin-care routine for mature skin focuses on three key things: hydration, protection, and repair. According to Dr. Collins, your morning routine should include a cream or oil-based cleanser to gently remove impurities, followed by an antioxidant serum, like vitamin C, to brighten skin and fight free radicals. Afterward, apply a moisturizer to hydrate and finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with SPF 30 or more) to shield against UV damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right facial cleanser for mature skin can be a daunting task, but by prioritizing hydration, barrier support, and gentle cleansing, you can achieve a radiant and healthy complexion. Whether you’re looking for a cream or oil-based cleanser, or a fragrance-free option, there are many great products on the market that cater to the unique needs of mature skin. Remember to always read the ingredient label and look for products that are formulated with your skin type in mind.