Any solid skin-care routine begins with a cleanse, but for aging skin, not any old cleanser will do. The best cleansers for mature skin gently whisk away impurities, excess oil, and debris, all while flooding the skin with ingredients that tackle common concerns that reflect signs of aging. And, oh yes: Any cleansers with the potential to irritate are out of the running.

“As skin matures, the key to cleansing is to use a formula that’s gentle yet hydrating,” says Whitney Tolpinrud, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director at Curology. “When shopping for a face cleanser—especially if you have sensitive skin— it’s important to carefully review the ingredient list. Some may choose to avoid products with fragrances, for instance, as they are a common cause of allergic reactions.”

In general, Dr. Tolpinrud recommends that mature patients seek out mild, fragrance-free cleansers packed with skin-replenishing ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and moisture-attracting ingredients like glycerin.

It also helps when cleansers have active ingredients like vitamin A or vitamin C, which can have time-rewinding effects on the skin by boosting cellular turnover and radiance.

Vogue’s Top Cleansers for Mature Skin:

In This Article:

Ahead, shop the 12 cleansers that turn an everyday wash into a moment of pampering and soothing. Happy cleansing!

La Roche-Posay Toleraine Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

• Why We Love It: A popular pick among dermatologists, this gentle cream cleanser is infused with thermal spring water to soothe the skin and douse it with antioxidants. It also contains niacinamide and Ceramide-3 to support the skin barrier and help the skin retain moisture. “This is perfect for patients with dry or sensitive skin,” says Lycia Thornburg, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and national lecturer based in Rapid City, South Dakota. Doubling as a gentle makeup remover, the cleanser is also a favorite for Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. She notes that the inclusion of niacinamide can help improve skin tone.
• Key Ingredients: La Roche-Posay thermal spring water, Ceramide-3, niacinamide
• Type: Cream cleanser
• Fragrance: No
• Size: 13.52 oz