image: rebecca canese

The word “cleanser” is often thought to be synonymous with “soap,” yet not all washes are created equal. Soap tends to be too harsh for sensitive areas like the face, breaking the delicate balance of sebum production and causing everything from dry patches to breakouts. All-natural cleansers remove daily dirt and makeup without stripping the skin of its essentials oils, keeping it moisturized and balanced.

Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser

Enzymes and clay are two of nature’s most powerful purifiers. In this 100-percent organic cleanser, pomegranate enzymes clear pores while French pink clay detoxifies. If breakouts and redness are concerns, this product also contains willow bark, an all-natural source of the blemish-busting salicylic acid. $75 for 4.1oz; tataharperskincare.com

Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil

If high school chemistry taught us anything, it’s that “like removes like.” This basic principle is the premise behind oil cleansers, which utilize natural oils to remove dirt and sebum build-up while maintaining the skin’s natural pH balance. Josie Maran’s face wash moisturizes with that magical Moroccan superstar, argan oil, world-renowned for its nourishing properties. $32 for 6oz; josiemarancosmetics.com

Origins GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser

An invigorating morning wake-up call, this scrub perks up the skin with caffeine and ginseng while carnauba wax exfoliates and polishes. An eye-opening blend of citrus and spearmint essential oils clears out pores and brightens the complexion. $19.50 for 5oz; origins.com

One Love Organics Easy Does It Foaming Cleanser

For even the most sensitive skin, the gentle ingredients clean without irritating. Chilean soapbark and cold-pressed apple oil create a soothing lather that softens the face and hair. That’s right, this cleanser even pulls double duty as a shampoo, perfect for travel. $29 for 8.8oz; oneloveorganics.com