As any beauty therapist worth one’s salt will know, the backbone of every facial treatment is a good cleanser (or two). Below, we’ve pulled together some of the best professionally stamped cleansers worthy of every aesthetician’s attention.

Even the most innovative facials in the business still start with a cleanse. For salon owners on the hunt for products that offer something a little different – whether in texture, scent or format—professional skincare brands are not remiss from being on the front-foot of innovation.

Cleansers are available in a variety of forms: cream cleansers, which are ideal for dry and sensitive skin types; gel cleansers that are perfect for normal and oily/acne skin types; and cleansing milks that are designed for all skin types. A professional cleanser should be applied to damp skin and massaged for up to two minutes, then rinsed off with tepid water (never hot!). 

When the primary step of virtually any facial is to cleanse the skin, it’s vital skin therapists leave a lasting first impression. Ahead, find our top picks for professional cleansers right now.

Dermalogica Precleanse

“WOW” and “completely obsessed” are just a few of the reviews you’ll find on this cult cleanser, which is rated an impressive 4.5/5 stars on Amazon. Step one in your skincare regime or treatment, this ultra-deep oil literally melts make-up and impurities away – even thick sunblocks won’t stand up to it. Yet, despite its hardworking, grime-busting prowess, it somehow still feels gentle on the skin. Follow with Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel – another one of our favourites. Learn more here.

iS CLINICAL Cleansing Complex

This clear, lightweight cleansing gel is powerful, yet gentle enough for hypersensitive skin. Featuring a balance of bio-nutrients, antioxidants, and mild resurfacing ingredients it thoroughly cleanses the surface and pores of the skin without stripping essential natural oils, leaving skin soft and smooth. Cleansing Complex is excellent as a treatment step in professional facials. Learn more here.

Osmosis Purify Enzyme Cleanser

It may sound and smell like a cold-pressed juice but don’t be fooled, this face wash is worth clearing counter space for. The antioxidant-heavy, gentle formula is packed with kumquat, kiwi, neem fruit, and exfoliating papaya enzyme. The ingredients work double-time to wash away daily grime, buff away dead skin cells, and keep skin bright and healthy. The cleanser also contains bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple that soothes the skin. Learn more here.

Medik8 Clarifying Foam Oil-Free AHA/BHA Blemish Cleanser

If you’re looking for the best face wash for acne prone skin, look to Medik8, whose Clarifying Foam cleanser contains a gentle combination of alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids to help exfoliate without stripping the skin. It’s also full of niacinamide, which helps calm and bolster the skin barrier, as well as tea tree oil to help prevent further breakouts. Learn more here.

Aspect Dr Deep Clean

Those with oily, combination, or blemish-prone skin will appreciate the pore-unclogging abilities of Deep Clean. The purifying cleanser is formulated with a blend of naturally occurring AHA’s and Lanablue™, known for its retinoid-like properties that exfoliate and refine skin. Alongside this find L-Lactic Acid to assist with hydration and micro-exfoliation; Organic Hydrafoam™ with coconut and cane sugar to gently cleanse; and Canadian Willowherb™ Extract to soothe and comfort whilst fighting free radical damage. Learn more here.

Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

This award-winning cleanser washes a day’s worth of sweat, makeup, and dirt off and down the drain without over-stripping your skin of its natural oils. A powerful combination of salicylic, lactic and glycolic acid work together to reveal a bright and smooth complexion. Through physical and chemical exfoliating agents, this face wash polishes skin to remove dead skin cells and impurities, unclogs pores to enhance the complexion and improves overall skin texture. Learn more here.

Main image credit: Dermalogica

Want more ProCollective?

• For more news and updates, subscribe to our weekly newsletter
• Follow us on Instagram
• Like us on Facebook