The initial stage in any skincare regimen must involve a cleansing product, but with a vast array of choices, where do you begin? Water-based cleansers are among the most adaptable options, with formulations tailored to almost every skin type, particularly for sensitive skin. If you’re seeking a gentle way to remove waterproof makeup without harshly scrubbing your face or need a mild cleanser for strained skin, the water-based cleanser is for you.
So, how can you determine whether a cleanser is water-based? It’s easy – examine the ingredients. Regardless of whether the formula is a dense gel or a foaming froth, the primary ingredient in any water-based cleanser will be water. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve gone the extra mile to assemble a selection of Malaysia’s most exceptional water-based cleansers. Without further ado, let’s delve into the top 10 water-based cleansers you can find in Malaysia.
How Are Water-Based Cleansers Different From Other Cleansers?
Water-based cleansers differ from other cleansers because they use water as their primary solvent and are designed to remove water-soluble impurities like sweat and light makeup. However, they are not effective at dissolving oil-based impurities, such as heavy makeup and sunscreen. Their gentle formula is particularly suitable for sensitive and dry skin types, as they cleanse without stripping the skin’s natural oils
Who Should Use Water-Based Cleansers?
Water-based cleansers are suitable for a wide range of individuals, making them an excellent choice for most skin types. They are particularly well-suited for those with oily or combination skin, as they effectively remove excess sebum and impurities without over-drying the skin. However, water-based cleansers are generally gentle enough for sensitive and normal skin types.
Do Water-Based Cleansers Require A Double Cleanse?
According to Soko Glam, in order to ensure thorough cleansing and maintain the health of your skin, you have to double cleanse. Even if you don’t wear makeup, an oil cleanser is necessary to remove sebum, sunscreen, and pollutants. Water-based cleansers cannot effectively remove these pollutants, so begin your routine with an oil cleanser!
Discover more water-based skincare products with gentle formulations:
10 Best Water-Based Cleansers in Malaysia 2026
1. CERAVE Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a water-based skincare product that provides gentle and effective washing while keeping the face hydrated. This cleanser, which contains water as its principal ingredient, is designed to remove pollutants, debris, and makeup from the skin’s surface without removing essential moisture. It is free of harsh sulphates, so it cleans well without causing irritation or dryness.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water / Eau, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Peg-40 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Glyceryl Stearate, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Cetyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 20, Ethylhexylglycerin
- Size Available: 87ml, 236ml, 355ml, 473ml, 1000ml
- Country of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Non-comedogenic
✅ Removes face makeup, dirt, and excess oil
✅ Paraben-free
Price: RM29.00- RM139.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam
The Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam gently removes debris, makeup, and dirt from pores while smoothing skin. When the cleansing foam comes into contact with water, the water-based composition lathers into a soft and creamy foam. This creamy foam cleanses the skin deeply without producing dryness or irritation, making it appropriate for daily use.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water / Aqua / Eau, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Sodium Chloride, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Fragrance / Parfum, Isostearic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Limonene, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Tetrasodium Edta, Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Linalool, Spirodela Polyrrhiza Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Dextrin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract, Morus Alba Leaf Extract, Angelica Keiskei Extract, Citric Acid, Tocopherol
- Size Available: 200ml
- Country of Origin: South Korea
Pros:
✅ Removes dead skin cells
✅ Softens skin
✅ Doesn’t over-strip skin
Price: RM89.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is a skincare product meticulously formulated to eliminate impurities, dirt, and excessive oil on the skin’s surface. It expertly removes these external elements and ensures that the skin’s natural balance remains intact. The cleanser’s remarkable pH-balanced composition plays a pivotal role in dissolving excess oil and dirt and upholding the skin’s delicate harmony.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Acrylates Copolymer, Lauryl Glucoside, PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Triethanolamine, Sodium Chloride, Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Hexylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Distearyl Ether, Sodium Benzoate, Laureth-2, Squalane, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil/Sweet Almond Oil, Prunus ArmeniacaKernel Oil/Apricot Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Persea Gratissima Oil/Avocado Oil.
- Size Available: 150 ml
- Country of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Dissolves excess oil, dirt, and debris
✅ PH-balanced to maintain skin’s natural balance
✅ Cleanses skin and removes makeup without over-drying
Price: RM85.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Water
The Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Water cleanses gently and soothingly. It effectively cleanses the skin by removing dirt and contaminants and has a relaxing effect. This micellar water preserves the skin’s natural balance. Its calming properties are formulated to reduce the risk of irritation, making it an excellent solution for those with sensitive skin.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Peg-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Fructooligosaccharides, Mannitol, Xylitol, Rhamnose, Cucumis sativus (cucumber) Fruit Extract, Propylene Glycol, Cetrimonium Bromide, Disodium EDTA. [Bi 446].
- Size Available: 500ml
- Country of Origin: France
Pros:
✅ Soothes sensitive skin
✅ Not drying on the skin
✅ Non-rinse formula
Price: RM95.76
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Gentle Facial Cleanser
The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Gentle Facial Cleanser is designed to remove pollutants, makeup, and grime from the skin’s surface while preserving the skin’s delicate balance. The milky cream texture moisturises the skin while gently removing face and eye makeup, grime, and pollutants. This facial cleanser also aids in the preservation of the skin’s natural protective barrier and pH*.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water / Eau (La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water), Glycerin, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Propylene Glycol, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Polysorbate 60, Ceramide Np, Niacinamide, Sodium Chloride, Coco-Betaine, Disodium Edta, Caprylyl Glycol, Panthenol, T-Butyl Alcohol, Tocopherol.e.
- Size Available: 200ml
- Country of Origin: France
Pros:
✅ Fragrance- free
✅ Soothes and calms skin
✅ Maintains skin balance
Price: RM90.60
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. EUCERIN Pro Acne – Acne & Makeup Cleansing Water
Eucerin ProACNE Solution Acne & Make-up Cleansing Water is a multi-purpose and refreshing solution that combines the benefits of a make-up remover, cleanser and toner in one. This alcohol-free formula gently removes water-soluble eye and face makeup without causing irritation or disrupting the skin’s natural moisture balance. It also prepares your skin for topical acne treatments or moisturizers, ensuring optimal results.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua, Poloxamer 124, Glyceryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Decyl Glucoside, Arginine Hcl, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Trisodium EDTA, Sodium Chloride, 1-2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol
- Size Available: 200 ml
- Country of Origin: German
Pros:
✅ Retain moisture
✅ Prevents pro-inflammatory risks
✅ Helps treat acne
Price: RM72.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. L’Occitane Aqua Réotier Water Gel Cleanser
The L’Occitane Aqua Réotier Water Gel Cleanser is formulated to efficiently eliminate impurities and makeup while delivering moisture to the skin. This foaming gel cleanser is infused with Réotier water, abundant in calcium, which cleans the skin of impurities while maintaining its comfort and imparting a soft and revitalised complexion with a radiant glow.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Coco-glucoside – Coco-betain, Sucrose Cocoat, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Trioleate, Phenoxyethanol, Glyceryl Oleate, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Propanediol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate, Lecithi, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocophero, Parfum/Fragrance – Linalool.
- Size Available: 195 ml
- Country of Origin: France
Pros:
✅ Gentle cleansing
✅ Softening skin
✅ Eliminate impurities
Price: RM105.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
8. First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser
The First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser removes pollutants, debris, and makeup from the skin’s surface while keeping its natural balance. To keep sensitive skin healthy, this non-stripping, pH-balanced daily face cleanser helps preserve the skin’s natural acidity. This cleanser’s luxurious, creamy texture will not leave skin tight or dry, ensuring a comfortable and revitalising cleansing experience.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Hydrogenated Coconut Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Stearyl Alcohol, Allantoin, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium PCA, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Coco-Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Sodium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Maltodextrin, Tetrasodium EDTA.
- Size Available: 56.7g, 142g, 226g, 311.8g
- Country of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ Suitable for sensitive skin
✅ Fragrance-free
✅ Leaves skin soft and supple
Price: RM65.00 – RM230.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
9. Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser
The Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser is specifically crafted to provide an enriching and moisturising experience for the skin, effectively maintaining its hydration levels without causing any excessive removal of natural oils. This unique formulation not only contributes to nourishing the skin but also plays a pivotal role in addressing blemishes and breakouts, offering a gradual improvement over time.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Palm Kernel/Coco Glucoside, Caulerpa Lentillifera (Seaweed) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Physalis Peruviana (Groundcherry) Fruit Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi (Bearberry) Leaf Extract, Morus Nigra (Mulberry) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Fruit Extract, Beta-Glucan, Scutellaria Baicalensis (Skullcap) Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa (Peony) Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance
- Size Available: 30ml, 160ml
- Country of Origin: South Korea
Pros:
✅ Blemish control
✅ Enhanced skincare efficacy
✅ Maintain the skin’s balance
Price: RM47.00 – RM160.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
10. Burt’s Bees Refining Cleanser
The Burt’s Bees Refining Cleanser provides a thorough and invigorating cleansing experience while preserving essential moisture within your skin. Enriched with Bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, and Vitamin E, it assists in uncovering a smoother and more vibrant complexion, diminishing dullness and preparing your skin for the subsequent steps of your skincare routine. This multi-benefit cleanser not only deeply cleanses but also contributes to a renewed and revitalised appearance, making it a valuable addition to your skincare regimen.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Stearic Acid, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Isoamyl Laurate, Glyceryl Laurate, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Bakuchiol, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Fragrance*, Phenoxyethanol, Eugenol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool *Natural Fragrance
- Size Available: 170g
- Country of Origin: America
Pros:
✅ 99% Natural Origin
✅ Gently exfoliates to reduce surface dullness
✅ Parabens-free
Price: RM69.00
*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.
