Dealing with itchy, red, and flaky skin from Seborrheic Dermatitis? We get it—it’s tough to find a cleanser that works just right. With so many products out there, the search can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. After three years in the beauty industry and loads of research, we’ve learned a thing or two.
Our selection of the best face cleanser for seborrheic dermatitis is based on research of ingredients, benefits, and actual customer reviews. We will also provide some tips on how to use them properly and what to avoid when choosing a facial cleanser for seborrheic dermatitis.
Stick with us, and we’ll help you discover the best face cleanser for your skin. Let’s dive in!
Choosing The Best Face Cleanser For Seborrheic Dermatitis [Tips From Experts]
Ever spotted those red, scaly patches on your skin? Ever felt the itchiness or inflammation that just seems to come out of nowhere? That’s seborrheic dermatitis for you. A common skin condition that many grapple with, but let’s clear something up right off the bat—it’s not contagious. Phew!
Now, what makes seborrheic dermatitis act up can be a myriad of things. Be it stress, that cold winter breeze, or even that skincare product you just tried out; triggers are plenty. But the bigger puzzle? Finding a face cleanser that does its job without leading to irritated skin or other seborrheic dermatitis symptoms.
One of the most challenging aspects of seborrheic dermatitis is finding the right facial cleanser that can effectively remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells without drying out or irritating the skin. A good facial cleanser should also help restore the natural balance and barrier of the skin, as well as prevent or reduce the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis like inflamed skin.
For best results, you should also add the best toners and moisturizers for seborrheic dermatitis in your skincare routine.
And lets not forget, the cleanser should have some key ingredients that help soothe your itchy skin.
To put it simply, a winning face cleanser for seborrheic dermatitis should tick certain boxes. You don’t just need gentle cleansers; there’s a lot more that goes into the mix according to experts and dermatologists.
So, let’s break it down for you so you can say goodbye to irritated skin:
| Feature | Why It’s Important | Ingredients to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Gentle & Hydrating | Keeps the skin’s natural balance, prevents dryness. | Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, natural extracts. (you can also look for cleansers with natural ingredients) |
| Anti-inflammatory & Anti-fungal | Reduces redness, itching, and controls yeast growth. | Salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, zinc gluconate, tea tree oil. |
| pH-balanced | Maintains the skin’s natural pH level, protecting its barrier function. | Cleansers with pH close to 5.5 or those labeled as pH-balanced. |
Now, with this guide by your side, your quest for the perfect cleanser just got a whole lot simpler.
Things To Watch Out For While Picking Your Cleanser
When choosing a face cleanser for seborrheic dermatitis, you should avoid products that have the following features:
- Harsh and drying: A harsh cleanser can strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture, making it more dry and sensitive. A drying cleanser can also worsen the flaking and scaling of seborrheic dermatitis. Avoid cleansers that contain ingredients such as alcohol, sulfates, or detergents that can dry out and irritate the skin.
- Irritating and allergenic: An irritating cleanser can cause inflammation, itching, burning, or stinging of the skin. An allergenic cleanser can trigger an allergic reaction or sensitivity in some people. Avoid cleansers that contain ingredients such as artificial fragrances, dyes, parabens, or essential oils that can irritate or sensitize the skin.
- Comedogenic and occlusive: A comedogenic cleanser can clog the pores and cause acne or blackheads. An occlusive cleanser can trap the dirt, oil, and bacteria on the skin and prevent it from breathing. Avoid cleansers that contain ingredients such as mineral oil, lanolin, or cocoa butter that can clog or suffocate the skin.
The Top 5 Best Face Cleansers for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Based on the criteria above, we have selected some of the best face cleansers for seborrheic dermatitis that you can try. Here are our top picks:
1. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a gentle and hydrating face wash that is suitable for normal to dry skin types. It contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin that can moisturize and restore the skin’s barrier function. It also has a mild formula that is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and pH-balanced. It can effectively cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils and moisture.
Product Description:
- Size: 16 fl oz (473 ml)
- Price: $14.64
- Ingredients: Purified Water, Glycerin, Behentrimonium Methosulfate And Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6-II, Ceramide 1, Hyaluronic Acid, Cholesterol, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate, Glyceryl Monostearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Phytosphingosine, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum
How to Use:
Wet skin with lukewarm water. Massage cleanser into skin in a gentle circular motion. Rinse.
2. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a gentle and non-irritating face wash that is suitable for sensitive skin types. It contains glycerin that can hydrate and soothe the skin. It also has a simple formula that is free of common irritants such as dyes, fragrance, parabens, sulfates, or formaldehyde. It can effectively cleanse the skin without causing any adverse reactions.
Product Description:
- Size: 8 fl oz (237 ml)
- Price: $8.86
- Ingredients: Purified Water; Glycerin; Coco Glucoside; Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate; Acrylates Copolymer; Caprylyl Glycol; Mica; Sodium Chloride; 1;2-Hexanediol; Titanium Dioxide; Sodium Hydroxide; Disodium EDTA
How to Use:
Apply generous amount to wet skin. Lather well and rinse.
3. Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo is a medicated shampoo that can also be used as a face wash for seborrheic dermatitis. It contains salicylic acid that can exfoliate and remove dead skin cells that cause flaking and scaling. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can reduce redness and itching of the skin. It can effectively cleanse the scalp and face without over-drying or irritating them.
Product Description:
- Size: 4.5 fl oz (133 ml)
- Price: $5.94
- Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid (3%). Inactive Ingredients: Water (Purified), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14 16 Olefin Sulfonate, Linoleamidopropyl PG Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Citrate
How to Use:
Wet hair and scalp thoroughly. Massage shampoo into your scalp. Lather, leaving on your hair and scalp for several minutes. Rinse and repeat.
4. Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc Bar Soap
Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc Bar Soap is a natural and vegan bar soap that can also be used as a face wash for seborrheic dermatitis. It contains zinc pyrithione that can control the fungus that causes seborrheic dermatitis. It also contains oatmeal, olive oil, and cocoa butter that can moisturize and nourish the skin. It can effectively cleanse the skin without leaving any residue or film and is the best face soap for seborrheic dermatitis.
Product Description:
- Size: 3.25 oz (92 g)
- Price: $12.99
- Ingredients: Saponified Olive Oil (infused with Calendula), Saponified Coconut Oil, Saponified Palm Oil, Saponified Cocoa Butter, Oatmeal, Pyrithione Zinc (2%)
- How to Use: Wet skin with lukewarm water. Lather soap in hands and apply to skin in a gentle circular motion. Rinse and pat dry.
5. Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water is a gentle and soothing micellar water that can also be used as a face wash for seborrheic dermatitis. It contains micelles that can capture and remove dirt, oil, and makeup without rinsing. It also contains cucumber extract that can calm and refresh the skin. It can effectively cleanse the skin without disrupting its natural balance or causing any irritation.
Product Description:
- Size: 16.7 fl oz (500 ml)
- Price: $14.90
- Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Peg-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Mannitol, Xylitol, Rhamnose, Fructooligosaccharides, Propylene Glycol, Disodium Edta, Cetrimonium Bromide
- How to Use: Soak a cotton pad with micellar water and gently wipe over face and eyes. Repeat until cotton pad is clean. No need to rinse.
How to Use a Face Cleanser for Seborrheic Dermatitis?
To get the best results from using a face cleanser for seborrheic dermatitis, you should follow these tips:
- Wash your face twice a day: Washing your face in the morning and at night can help remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that can worsen seborrheic dermatitis. However, do not over-wash your face as this can dry out and irritate your skin.
- Use lukewarm water: Using lukewarm water can help open up the pores and loosen the impurities on the skin. However, avoid using hot water as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture.
- Massage gently: Massage your face cleanser into your skin in a gentle circular motion for about a minute. This can help improve blood circulation and stimulate the skin’s renewal process. However, avoid scrubbing or rubbing your skin too hard as this can cause inflammation and damage.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your face with plenty of water until all traces of cleanser are gone. This can help prevent any residue or film from clogging the pores or irritating the skin.
- Pat dry: Pat your face dry with a soft towel or tissue paper. Do not rub or tug your skin as this can cause friction and irritation.
- Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and condition after cleansing your face. This can help lock in the moisture and protect the skin’s barrier function.
The Bottom Line
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common and challenging skin condition that affects the scalp, face, and other areas of the body. It causes redness, flaking, scaling, itching, and irritation of the skin.
One of the most important steps in managing seborrheic dermatitis is finding the best face cleanser that can cleanse the skin without drying out or irritating it. A good face cleanser should also help restore the natural balance and barrier of the skin, as well as prevent or reduce the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
Some of the best face cleansers for seborrheic dermatitis are:
- [CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser]: A gentle and hydrating face wash that contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin.
- [Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser]: A gentle and non-irritating face wash that contains glycerin and is free of common irritants.
- [Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo]: A medicated shampoo that can also be used as a face wash that contains salicylic acid.
- [Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc Bar Soap]: A natural and vegan bar soap that can also be used as a face wash that contains zinc pyrithione, oatmeal, olive oil, and cocoa butter.
- [Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water]: A gentle and soothing micellar water that can also be used as a face wash that contains micelles and cucumber extract.
To use a face cleanser for seborrheic dermatitis, you should wash your face twice a day with lukewarm water, massage gently, rinse thoroughly, pat dry, and moisturize.
We hope this article has helped you find the best face cleanser for seborrheic dermatitis. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading!