The Best Face Washes for Rosacea

As the largest organ of the body, our skin has to battle outside forces every day. Not only does it protect our body from the elements; it also reacts in various ways to products, chemicals and conditions. While some mature men still struggle with acne as adults, there is a chance that the redness and bumps on your face could be something entirely different.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes a prominent red tone in the skin. It can resemble blushing, but the condition is far more complicated than the natural reaction to being embarrassed. Rosacea makes the small blood vessels in the face break, causing a red-pigmented tone to the skin. This red color can come and go, or it can be a consistent tone to the skin. While rosacea is easier to spot on lighter skin, people with darker skin can struggle with this skin condition as well.

Rosacea can cause small bumps to appear on the face that may contain pus. Though they resemble acne, they have a different cause. This skin condition can be embarrassing in that the face always has a reddish tone. Rosacea can also make the skin tender and hot to the touch. While most men with rosacea experience redness on the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin, it can spread to the chest, back and ears as well.

There are four known types of rosacea, which are defined according to the symptoms of the skin condition. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea causes redness, visible blood vessels and flushing of the skin. Papulopustular rosacea brings on swelling, redness, and small pus-filled breakouts. Phymatous rosacea causes the skin to thicken and become bumpy (men are more likely to have this type of rosacea than women). Ocular rosacea presents in the eyes with irritation and swelling.

Unfortunately, the causes of rosacea are still unknown. Doctors recognize that some patients are prone to this skin condition while others are not. A combination of environmental factors like sun exposure, temperature extremes, emotions, and even food and drink may exacerbate the condition. Some drugs and skin-care products can also cause blood vessels to overreact, causing a red-toned reaction.

Good news?

The good news is that rosacea is not contagious, and there are many products on the market that can help. Washing the face on a daily basis helps remove contaminants that could be irritating the skin. Daily cleansing is the first step to battling this skin condition that can wreak havoc on everyday life. Check out and try these best face washes for rosacea to help combat this skin condition.

1. Blu Atlas Exfoliating Scrub

Rosacea is a problem for men with compromised skin. Using Blu Atlas Exfoliating Scrub once a day helps to wash away impurities and infuses skin with natural healing elements. The included hibiscus flower extract adds antioxidants to the scrub and helps fight free radicals that can lead to the red tones. Jojoba oil boosts skin texture, as do vitamins A, E and D. Bamboo stem extract tops off the Blu Atlas Exfoliating Scrub with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that calm skin down. Hands down, one of the best face washes for rosacea.

2. Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser

Many men who struggle with rosacea also have sensitive skin. The Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser from Aveeno is gentle on the skin but powerful enough to wash away contaminants. This product includes the herb feverfew, which is known to help reduce the irritation and redness in the skin. The foaming action of this face cleanser rinses clean. The Aveeno brand is widely available, and this product should be easy to find in a store near you.

3. Clinique Redness Solutions Soothing Cleanser

Preserve skin moisture and reduce irritated red skin with the use of this Redness Solutions Soothing Cleanser from Clinique. This gel formula features an extra-gentle dose of power to remove impurities while caring for the unique needs of rosacea-prone skin. Probiotic technology infused into this cleanser boosts the results of the product and improves visible redness without irritating the skin. You can use this cleanser on a daily basis.

4. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Men with sensitive skin are more likely to suffer from rosacea. This Gentle Skin Cleanser from Cetaphil is a good choice if your skin is prone to irritation. This product is easy to find on store shelves, and it is budget-friendly. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is soap- and fragrance-free to reduce the number of artificial ingredients that come in contact with the skin. It is a great option for those men who suffer from mild rosacea and who don’t want to break the bank.

5. Brickell Men’s Purifying Charcoal Face Wash

Natural and organic products round out the ingredients in this best face wash for rosacea from Brickell. The Purifying Charcoal Face Wash features gentle cleaning capabilities along with the natural scent of peppermint. Aloe vera, jojoba oil and olive oil work together to clear away dirt and replenish the skin. These ingredients also help reduce skin inflammation and puffiness for an all-day clear look.

6. Eucerin Redness Relief Cleansing Gel

For those of us looking for a fragrance-free face wash that also reduces rosacea, the Redness Relief Cleansing Gel from Eucerin is a perfect choice. This product removes impurities while using licorice root and licochalcone to soothe overactive skin tone. Eucerin Redness Relief Cleansing Gel is oil- and soap-free, leaving a fresh and clean feeling after use. This product is appropriate for those with sensitive skin.

7. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

Boost the overall moisture level of facial skin with this Hydrating Facial Cleanser from CeraVe. This product is well-loved because it is mild and gentle but still has an effective mix of ingredients to clear the skin of contaminants. The superior hydrating qualities of this product help infuse the skin with moisture, which can combat the reaction of rosacea-prone skin.

8. Cetaphil Redness Relieving Daily Facial Moisturizer

While this isn’t a face cream, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to mention this product from Cetaphil, which is specifically targeted for rosacea issues. The Redness Relieving Daily Facial Moisturizer should be used after a face wash to help tone down redness. The included sunscreen in the product helps protect the skin from ultraviolet rays and works like magic to reduce the redness caused by rosacea.

9. Clinique Redness Solutions Daily Relief Cream

Another product from Clinique that targets rosacea patients is the Redness Solutions Daily Relief Cream. Again, this isn’t a face wash, but rather a cream to use after cleansing to combat ruddy tones. The texture of this product is richer than a serum, making it a small addition to the daily routine, but one that is well worth the effort.

10. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Redness Soothing Facial Cleanser

Polish away red tones with this Oil-Free Acne Wash Redness Soothing Facial Cleanser from Neutrogena. This soothing face wash includes chamomile and aloe vera to calm down skin tones and leave skin looking healthier. The cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use and can significantly improve both rosacea and acne.

11. Replenix Green Tea Gentle Soothing Cleanser

Calm down hot and red-toned skin with the natural calming effects of green tea. This Green Tea Gentle Soothing Cleanser from Replenix is a wonderful product for any man with rosacea issues. Washing the face with this product during a rosacea flareup can reduce the overall tone and appearance of the skin as well as soothe inflammation. This product is free of soap and includes medical-grade ingredients for the ultimate in rosacea care.

12. SkinCeuticals Redness Neutralizer

For men with irritated skin and small patches of rosacea, many dermatologists recommend using SkinCeuticals Redness Neutralizer, which offers a targeted approach. This product strengthens the skin and makes it less susceptible to elemental irritations such as wind, sun and temperature fluctuations. Chamomile extract helps to calm down rosacea with natural anti-inflammatory qualities.

13. Eucerin Redness Relief Night Cream

While this isn’t a rosacea face wash per se, the Redness Relief Night Cream from Eucerin is an excellent choice to combat redness overnight. Natural licochalcone and soothing moisturizer improve skin redness while you sleep. This product won’t clog pores, which can irritate the skin tone as well.

14. Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser

Wash away the cares of the day with this Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser from Neutrogena. This trusted brand in the skin-care industry offers a face wash that won’t dry out skin and rinses away clean. Developed by dermatologists, the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser is a great choice for men with rosacea who want to clear contaminants but hope to avoid irritating the skin.

15. First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser

This gentle and fragrance-free face cleanser is a great choice for men with rosacea-prone skin. The Pure Skin Face Cleanser from First Aid Beauty offers enough strength to clear the face of impurities while leaving behind a soft finish. Allantoin and aloe work together in this product to calm down the skin while hydrating every pore.

16. Eminence Calm Skin Chamomile Cleanser

We like this product for rosacea because it includes chamomile to soothe skin. The Calm Skin Chamomile Cleanser from Eminence helps calm and heal the skin and decrease swelling. The chamomile works as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial element to further enhance its effect on rosacea. The combination of sunflower oil and calendula make this cleanser rich and creamy to the touch.

17. Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser

Calm down heightened red tones caused by rosacea with this Ultracalming Cleanser from Dermalogica. This product includes natural soothing ingredients such as aloe, oat and cucumber; the addition of ginger root extract helps to even out skin tone. This cleanser features a gel texture for those men who don’t like the foamy stuff.

18. La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser

The popular French skincare brand La Roche Posay knows a thing or two about treating skin conditions. Their Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser is great for sensitive skin that may also have some rosacea issues. Niacinamide and ceramides work together to restore skin and battle against the free radicals that can cause rosacea color tones. Free of soap, fragrance and oil, the Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser won’t bother skin that is distressed by rosacea.

19. Paula’s Choice Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution

Get the benefits of reducing redness on the skin and add a boost of exfoliants to snuff out any dirt and grime that hide deep in pores. Paula’s Choice Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution contains 2% salicylic acid to help clear breakouts and reduce red marks. Use this product daily to help fight red tones and promote smoother and healthier-looking skin.

20. Bioderma Sensibio AR Cream

If your face is hot to the touch, try the cooling sensation of Bioderma Sensibio AR Cream. This unique product includes allantoin, which helps decrease the flushed look caused by rosacea and creates a noticeable cooling effect. Use this rosacea-combating cream after a gentle face wash for best results.

21. Epi.Logic by Dr. Jeanniton Even Balance

This toner can significantly reduce the look of rosacea after a daily cleanse. The Even Balance toner from Epi.Logic by Dr. Jeanniton is worth a shot if you suffer from rosacea. This product is infused with aloe vera and chamomile extract to calm down those red skin areas that can ruin your day.

22. Vanicream Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser

Choosing a product with minimal additives is essential when treating rosacea so that the skin isn’t irritated further. The Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser from Vanicream washes away dirt and grime but doesn’t leave a bunch of extra chemicals on the skin afterward. Choosing a product that only contains what is needed, such as this item from Vanicream, can help cut down on rosacea flare-ups in the future.

23. Mario Badescu Keratoplast Cleansing Lotion

A combination of soothing ingredients like bee pollen extract, aloe vera and a mild solution of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) work together in this product from Mario Badescu. The Keratoplast Cleansing Lotion acts more like a toner calming down the skin before or after a big day. Refresh sensitive skin and dissolve dead skin cells with this cleansing lotion that also hydrates.

24. Skin Laundry Hydrating Cream Face Wash

You can feel good about applying Skin Laundry’s Hydrating Cream Face Wash to the face thanks to its soap-free and sulfate-free blend of ingredients. This product removes dirt and grime first, then applies a generous dose of soothing aloe, macadamia nut and meadowfoam seed oils to the skin. A subtle citrus scent helps wake up your skin (and your brain) before you start the day. Red areas are toned down and hydrated so you feel ready to conquer whatever the day will bring.

25. NeoStrata Facial Cleanser With PHA

If you’re a man with rosacea that comes with small pus-filled bumps, consider this Facial Cleanser with polyhydroxy acid (PHA) from NeoStrata. This product targets acne-like breakouts with gentle PHA exfoliation. The NeoStrata Facial Cleanser with PHA is fragrance- and soap-free, making it an easy choice for people with sensitive skin who still need some acne-fighting face cleanser.

26. Dr. Hauschka Soothing Cleansing Milk

Men who want to stick with vegan or organic products need look no further than Dr. Hauschka’s Soothing Cleansing Milk. This 100% vegan and organic product includes the natural power of jojoba oil, almond oil and anthyllis to combat redness and irritation. The hydrating gentleness of this product brings the skin back into balance that you can feel good about.

27. Alpha-H Balancing Cleanser

Restore skin to its natural pH balance with this Balancing Cleanser from Alpha-H. This product is a great option for those with redness or rosacea concerns as it helps to correct skin tone with the use of soothing ingredients like vitamin E and aloe vera. The cream goes on smooth and washes away clean for a great start to the day.

28. Selfless by Hyram Centella & Green Tea Hydrating Gel Cleanser

Add the power of green tea and antioxidant-rich centella to help rid the skin of red tones. This Centella & Green Tea Hydrating Gel Cleanser from Selfless by Hyram is pH balanced and works to deactivate skin overreactions. Massage a small amount of this product into the skin morning and night, and then rinse away for a cleaner and healthier complexion.

29. The Body Shop Aloe Calming Cream Cleanser

When skin is extremely red, reach for this Aloe Calming Cream Cleanser from The Body Shop. This product helps reduce the natural tones of the skin and soothe any areas that are hot or tender to the touch. Many men choose to use this product after a bad sunburn, which can increase the underlying rosacea issues.

30. Era Organics Tea Tree Cleanser

Douse skin with enough nutrients to combat the daily effects of rosacea. The Tea Tree Cleanser from Era Organics involves the power of natural tea tree oil to draw the impurities from the skin. This product won’t dry out the skin and is blended with aloe vera, dandelion root and goldenseal for a unique twist on battling rosacea. Other ingredients include pomegranate seed oil and St. John’s wort, which are known for promoting natural wound healing when applied directly to the skin.

31. Innisfree Hydrating Cleansing Foam With Green Tea

Enjoy the natural benefits of green tea with this Hydrating Cleansing Foam with Green Tea from skin-care brand Innisfree. The green tea ingredient, which is sourced from Jeju Island in South Korea, offers healing and soothing to rosacea-prone skin. The gel foams up during use with water to provide a gentle and clean finish.

32. pHat 5.5 Manuka Honey Rosacea Wash

This all-natural and organic face wash targeted specifically to combat rosacea comes from a high-quality family-owned company. The Manuka Honey Rosacea Wash from pHat 5.5 is a liquid wash that reduces redness and provides extra relief to red-toned skin areas. Hemp seed oils, aloe vera, coconut and olive oil work together to provide an organic solution for rosacea-prone skin. Manuka honey, cehami and plumeria round out the all-natural ingredient list, which is perfectly pH balanced for daily use.

Rosacea

Make sure to decrease stress levels, hydrate and exercise to promote overall skin health. Other factors, including extreme temperature conditions in both cold and hot climates, can also cause rosacea flare-ups. Caring for the skin with daily washing and moisturizing, along with a morning dose of SPF to protect from sun damage, can help you fight rosacea.

Men often struggle more with the kind of rosacea that causes a thickening of the skin, so it is crucial to make sure that men care for their skin as much as possible. Morning skincare routines and nightly routines are equally important for reducing the number of rosacea skin issues you suffer from. For those with rosacea that includes small pus-filled bumps, daily cleaning is even more important, in order to rid the skin of bacteria and dirt that could cause breakouts in the future.

When a rosacea breakout occurs, reflect on current conditions in the weather or exposure that could have led to the reddening of the skin. If the redness doesn’t go away on its own, consider choosing a few of the recommended best face washes for rosacea in the list above to see what works. Identify what kind of rosacea is present and then choose accordingly, based on how various products target rosacea issues.

Always check for continuing rosacea issues that could spread to the ears, chest and back as well. Talking to a professional, like a trusted dermatologist, can help with relief options as well as recommendations on products that work the best for a specific skin type with unique issues.

Closing Thoughts

Rosacea is a common skin condition that many people experience from time to time. Battling it on a daily basis can be tiresome, though. Make sure to find what works best by checking out these face washes. This could be the first step in battling rosacea today.

There is nothing to be embarrassed about when dealing with rosacea-prone skin. While the actual cause of this common skin condition is still unknown, some real-life elements can lead to worsening rosacea breakouts. However, there is hope for reducing redness, swelling and overall irritation commonly associated with rosacea.

Follow up any of these rosacea-tackling face washes with other products like toners, serums and creams designed specifically to help fight the residual effects of rosacea.