The latest cleansers are making a strong case for upgrading the very first step of your beauty routine. Photo: Joi
Cleansing has evolved far beyond basic face wash, with new formulas designed to do everything from remove stubborn makeup to defend against environmental stressors.
Today’s standout products blend skincare benefits with gentle yet effective cleansing, supporting the skin barrier while delivering hydration, brightness and calm.
Silky-smooth formula
Joi’s Coconut & Avocado Cleansing Oil is an all-natural oil cleanser that dissolves makeup and impurities while restoring the skin’s natural moisture and pH balance.
Packed with nourishing coconut, avocado and olive oil, this silky-smooth formula is ideal for all skin types, leaving skin replenished, clarified and refreshed.
Lightweight and refreshing
Paloma’s Kind Cleanser is a gentle yet effective daily cleanser that purifies without stripping and is especially soft to sensitive skin.
This spa-like gel wash removes impurities, dirt and makeup and is infused with antioxidant-rich geranium oil to help tighten and tone while retaining moisture, leaving your skin supple and hydrated.
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Barrier protection
Shu Uemura’s BrightOil is designed for modern city living, addressing daily aggressors such as pollution, UV exposure, stress and long hours that weaken the skin barrier and dull natural radiance.
Its Moisture-Barrier Cleansing Technology and the proprietary Lumi-Barrier Complex deliver protection, hydration and brightness in a single cleanse while preventing moisture loss.
Hydrating properties
Farmacy’s Green Clean Cleansing Balm features a super greens blend of upcycled moringa, holy basil and arugula which provides natural antioxidants that support healthier-looking skin.
Sunflower oil helps break down long-wear makeup and SPF without scrubbing or stripping, leaving skin smooth and hydrated, while papaya extract helps draw out dirt and impurities to leave skin fresh and thoroughly cleansed.
Read more: What are ear seeds, and do beauty claims around the trend actually hold up?
Soothing sensitive skin
Anua’s Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil is a gentle, non-comedogenic cleansing oil that effectively removes makeup, sebum, SPF and impurities while soothing sensitive, acne-prone skin.
Irritated skin is soothed thanks to calming heartleaf extract which promotes clear, healthy-looking skin.




