Oily skin can be a challenge to manage, especially when it comes to cleansing. Choosing the right face wash is essential to control excess oil while maintaining the skin’s health and preventing irritation. Dermatologists recommend specific cleansers that effectively remove impurities without stripping the skin. Here, we reveal the top 5 dermatologist-approved face washes for oily skin that can transform your complexion with consistent use.

Why Cleansing Matters for Oily Skin

Proper cleansing is the foundation of a successful skincare routine for oily skin. At morning, it helps remove the oil that builds up overnight, and at night, it eliminates sunscreen, makeup, and environmental pollutants. This gives your skin a fresh canvas for subsequent skincare steps.

How to Cleanse Oily Skin Correctly

• Wet your face thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• Apply a dime-sized amount of face wash and gently lather all over the face.
• Let the cleanser sit for about 30 seconds to effectively dissolve oil and dirt.
• Rinse off with cool water to close pores.
• Pat your face dry gently using a microfiber towel or allow it to air dry.
• Follow up immediately with a gel-based moisturizer to repair the skin barrier and prevent the tight, stretched feeling after washing.

Avoid harsh scrubs, daily exfoliants, and rough towel drying, as these can cause irritation and damage, worsening oily skin problems over time.

Top 5 Dermatologist-Recommended Face Washes for Oily Skin

1. B Calm Salicylic Acid Face Wash

This is a standout choice for oily, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. It contains salicylic acid to reduce oiliness and prevent blackheads and whiteheads, plus prebiotics that maintain the skin’s microbiome. Unique ingredients like Quinarium 73 deliver antibacterial benefits, calming inflammation without dryness.

• Soap and sulfate-free formula
• Suitable for fungal acne concerns
• Price: ₹349 for 80 ml

2. CeraVe Foaming Cleanser

Formulated with glycerin and ceramides, this cleanser soothes and hydrates skin while gently foaming to remove dirt and excess oil. The mild surfactants make it ideal for those with normal to moderately oily skin who want a non-drying cleanser.

• Contains sodium lauryl lactylate (gentle surfactant)
• Price: ₹1149 for 236 ml

3. Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil’s formula balances deep cleansing with moisture retention by including ingredients like panthenol and castor oil. It contains sodium lauryl sulfate and sarcosinate for effective oil removal, making it a reliable option for oily skin types, though it may be too harsh for sensitive dry skin.

• Price: ₹699 for 125 ml

4. Bioderma Sebium Gel Moussant

Designed for oily skin, this gel cleanser features antibacterial agents zinc sulfate and copper sulfate, alongside gentle exfoliating lactic acid. It creates a soft foam that deep-cleans pores without aggressive stripping.

• Includes hydrating agents like mannitol and xylitol
• Price: ₹800 for 100 ml

5. Episoft OC Cleansing Gel

This gentle cleansing gel relies on mild surfactants such as sodium lauryl glycoside and cocamidopropyl betaine, combined with glycerin and niacinamide to soothe the skin and support the skin barrier. It serves well for combination to oily skin types.

• Price: ₹550 for 125 ml

Final Tips for Managing Oily Skin

• Always cleanse twice daily to remove impurities and excess oils.
• Use exfoliants sparingly, about once a week, to avoid irritation.
• Moisturize with gel-based, non-comedogenic products to support hydration without adding greasiness.
• Pat skin dry gently to preserve its barrier integrity.

For more strategies and products that help maintain healthy skin and tackle common concerns like hair loss and oily skin, consider exploring trusted skincare and haircare solutions.

Proper cleansing tailored to oily skin can transform your complexion, preventing breakouts and keeping your skin balanced and clear. By integrating one of these dermatologist-approved face washes into your daily routine, you’ll be well on your way to healthier, fresher skin.