In the skincare world, finding the right products can feel like a journey of trial and error. For those with sensitive skin, this journey can be even more challenging. The quest for cleansers that effectively remove impurities without causing irritation or discomfort is a top priority. Opting for cleansers tailored to sensitive skin helps preserve skin health without triggering irritation or unease. These cleaners are crafted to be mild, calming, and proficient in cleansing while considering the sensitivities of delicate skin.
Sensitive skin, characterised by its heightened reactivity to various environmental factors and products, requires a gentle and thoughtful approach. Cleansers curated to nurture and support such skin types have been a game-changer. With that said, here are the 10 best cleansers for sensitive skin in Malaysia.
Why Do You Need A Cleanser Specifically Formulated For Sensitive Skin?
Using a cleanser specifically formulated for sensitive skin is crucial because sensitive skin tends to react more intensely to external factors and harsh ingredients. A specialised cleanser is designed to effectively remove impurities while minimising the risk of irritation, redness, and discomfort. These cleansers usually contain gentle, soothing ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances that can trigger sensitivities.
What Ingredients Should You Look For In A Cleanser For Sensitive Skin?
When searching for a cleanser suitable for sensitive skin, it’s important to prioritise gentle and soothing ingredients that minimise the risk of irritation and maintain your skin’s delicate balance. Here are some key ingredients to look for:
- Hyaluronic Acid
This hydrating ingredient helps retain moisture and soothe sensitive skin, leaving it plump and comfortable. - Fragrance-Free
Fragrances can be a common trigger for sensitive skin reactions, so opt for products labelled as fragrance-free. - Glycerin
A soap-free cleanser is good for sensitive skin because it gently cleanses without stripping its natural oils, minimising irritation and maintaining the skin’s delicate balance.
How Often Should You Cleanse Your Sensitive Skin?
For sensitive skin, cleaning twice a day is generally recommended – once in the morning to refresh the skin and once in the evening to remove dirt and impurities accumulated throughout the day. Over-cleansing can exacerbate sensitivity, so aim for a gentle cleansing routine that maintains your skin’s natural balance while effectively keeping it clean and comfortable.
Find more products that help to soothe sensitive skin:
- Best Toners For Sensitive Skin
- Best Serums for Sensitive Skin
- Best Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin
- Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin
10 Best Cleansers For Sensitive Skin in Malaysia 2025
1. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser
The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser is designed specifically for sensitive oily and acne-prone skin, and it seeks to remove excess oil, debris, and pollutants while helping to unclog pores. It produces a brighter complexion while controlling oiliness without over-drying the skin. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser gives a refreshing and revitalising cleansing experience, leaving the skin feeling clean, invigorated, and balanced.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, PEG-8, Coco-Betaine, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Zinc PCA, Sodium Hydroxide, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum / Fragrance.
- Size Available: 200ml
- Country Of Origin: France
Pros:
✅ Removes impurities and excess sebum
✅ Reduces the visibility of blackheads
✅ Controls shine
Price: RM71.32
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a well-known skincare product because of its gentle and non-irritating nature. Dermatologists and skincare professionals frequently recommend it for its gentle cleansing effect, which is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The cleanser is soap-free and fragrance-free, and it is designed to remove grime, makeup, and pollutants without removing the skin’s natural hydration. It’s designed to keep the skin’s pH balanced while also leaving it feeling clean, soft, and rejuvenated.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Pantolactone, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid
- Size Available: 500ml
- Country Of Origin: USA
Pros:
✅ Actively hydrates
✅ Cleans without stripping the skin’s natural oils
✅ Fragrance-free
Price: RM63.50
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser cleanses the face thoroughly without leaving the skin feeling greasy. The cleanser removes excess oil, debris, and pollutants while also helping maintain the skin’s natural balance. The cleanser lathers into a pleasant foam with a gentle yet thorough cleansing action, leaving the skin clean, revitalised, and free of the heavy sense of oiliness.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Distearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Kaolin, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract / Lemon Fruit Extract, PEG-14M, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide
- Size Available: 150ml
- Country Of Origin: USA
Pros:
✅ Thoroughly removes impurities
✅ Visibly reduces excess oil
✅ Fragrance-free
Price: RM110.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. COSRX Pure Fit Cica Cleanser
The COSRX Pure Fit Cica Cleanser combines Centella Asiatica (Cica) extract, a famous ingredient in K-beauty known for its skin-soothing properties, to address sensitive or irritated skin. This cleanser is designed to gently cleanse the skin while also helping maintain its natural moisture barrier. Its delicate formula removes pollutants without irritation, making it an ideal choice for people looking for a soft and nurturing cleansing experience.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Coco-Betaine, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Chloride, Coco-Glucoside, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Citric Acid, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Disodium EDTA, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract, Propanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment, Ethylhexylglycerin, Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract
- Size Available: 150ml
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
Pros:
✅ Cleanses sensitive skin with a gentle foam
✅ Low pH cleanser with low stimulation formula
✅ Alcohol-free
Price: RM53.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. Elta MD Foaming Facial Cleanser
The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser has gentle yet effective cleansing action. Specifically formulated for daily use, this foaming cleanser is designed to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without over-drying the skin. Its pH-balanced formula helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier while offering a thorough cleanse. This cleanser is often recommended for various skin types, including sensitive skin, and is free of harsh ingredients like parabens and sulfates.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Acrylates Copolymer, Methyl Perfluoroisobutyl Ether, Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether, Magnesium Silicate, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Bromelain, PEG/PPG-14/4 Dimethicone, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Isononyl Isononanoate, Ethylhexyl Isononanoate, Sodium Cocamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Capryloyl Glycine, Undecylenoyl Glycine, Sodium Bisulfite, Propylene Glycol, Maltodextrin, Coconut Acid, Sodium Chloride, Hexylene Glycol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Fragrance
- Size Available: 207ml
- Country Of Origin: Switzerland
Pros:
✅ Gentle enough for daily use, morning and night
✅ Loosens makeup on the skin
✅ Parabens and sulfate free
Price: RM116.80
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. Curel Foam Facial Wash
Curel Foam Facial Wash is a mild cleanser with moisturising characteristics. This foam cleanser is designed to eliminate pollutants while thoroughly hydrating the skin. It’s ideal for people with sensitive or dry skin because it’s free of harsh substances and doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. The Curel Foam Facial Wash’s mild and non-irritating formula gives a comprehensive yet relaxing washing experience, leaving the skin clean, invigorated, and moisturised.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water/Aqua, Glycerin, Maltitol, Propylene Glycol, PEG-150, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroyl Aspartate, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Polysorbate 60, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Potassium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben
- Size Available: 150ml
- Country Of Origin: Japan
Pros:
✅ Thoroughly cleanses without stripping hydration
✅ Protects ceramide levels
✅ pH balanced
Price: RM56.80
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser
The Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser is meant to be used on a daily basis. This cleanser removes debris, oil, and makeup while keeping the skin’s moisture balance intact. Its gentle, non-irritating formula is ideal for people with sensitive or dry skin and is free of fragrance and other potential irritants. With a focus on hydration and preserving the skin’s natural barrier, this cleanser provides a soothing and effective cleansing experience that leaves the skin feeling clean, rejuvenated and well-moisturised.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cetearyl Glucoside, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
- Size Available: 354ml
- Country Of Origin: USA
Pros:
✅ Cleanses away dirt, oil, grime and impurities
✅ Non-comedogenic
✅ Hypoallergenic
Price: RM64.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
8. Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser
The Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser is formulated with oat extract and gently cleanses the face while giving a relaxing effect. Its goal is to remove pollutants without removing the skin’s natural moisture, making it appropriate for delicate or irritated skin. The Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser emphasises repairing and nourishing the skin, providing a soothing and comforting washing experience that refreshes and balances the skin.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice, Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Poloxamer188, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polysorbate 20, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Polyacrylate, Sodium Hydroxide
- Size Available: 200ml, 232ml
- Country Of Origin: USA
Pros:
✅ Gentle, nourishing cleanser for sensitive skin
✅ Hydrates to preserve skin’s moisture barrier
✅ Contains nourishing oat
Price: RM68.00- RM80.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
9. AHC HYALURONIC Dewy Radiance Cleansing Foam
The AHC HYALURONIC Dewy Radiance Cleansing Foam is a moisturising and radiance-enhancing skincare product. This foamy cleanser with hyaluronic acid aims to cleanse the skin while also offering a moisture boost. It works to eliminate pollutants and makeup while keeping the skin hydrated. This cleanser concentrates on fostering a dewy and radiant complexion by providing a cleansing experience that leaves the skin feeling rejuvenated, plumped, and luminous.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water,PEG-8,Stearic Acid,Myristic Acid,Potassium Hydroxide,Glycerin,Lauric Acid,Palmitic Acid,Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate,Butylene Glycol,Coco-Glucoside,Glyceryl Stearate SE,Fragrance(Parfum),Polyquaternium-7,Arachidic Acid,Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate,Disodium EDTA,Oleic Acid,1,2-Hexanediol,Sodium Benzoate,Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract,Sodium Hyaluronate,Hyaluronic Acid,Citric Acid,Glutathione,Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid,Saccharide Isomerate,Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate,Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate,Propanediol,PEG-9 Diglycidyl Ether/Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer,Potassium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Water, Tillandsia Usneoides Extract, Ethyl Hexanediol, Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract,Sodium Citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate, Lactic Acid/Glycolic Acid Copolymer, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Hydroxyproline, Proline, Ascorbic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Alanine, Lysine, Serine, Threonine
- Size Available: 150ml
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
Pros:
✅ Moisture care with 10-hyaluronic acid and Aqua-Glue
✅ Low-irritant deep cleansing
✅ Increase skin transparency
Price: RM63.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
10. Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant
Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant is a soothing micellar cleansing gel that helps to maintain the skin’s natural hydration. This foamy gel cleanser is meant to thoroughly remove pollutants, grime, and makeup while respecting the skin’s sensitivity. It is designed specifically for sensitive and reactive skin types, with the goal of cleansing without creating irritation.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Propanediol, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Citric Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Sodium Citrate, PEG-90 Glyceryl Isostearate, Mannitol, Xylitol, Laureth-2, Rhamnose, Fructooligosaccharides, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate, Lecithin, and Ascorbyl Palmitate. [BI 722].
- Size Available: 200ml
- Country Of Origin: France
Pros:
✅ Moisturises skin
✅ Soothes and calms irritations
✅ Removes makeup residue
Price: RM67.12
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
