Over the years, I’ve become a firm believer that what we put on our skin matters just as much as what we eat. That’s why I’m passionate about choosing natural and organic skincare products that cleanse, nourish, and support my skin’s health. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re on a similar journey to avoid harsh chemicals and embrace the purity of nature—just like I am.
As someone who’s always loved a good skincare routine, I’ve tested my fair share of face washes. From high-end brands to drugstore gems, I’ve tried it all. However, after lots of trial and error, I’ve discovered that natural and organic face washes make all the difference in giving me a clean, healthy complexion without irritating or over-drying my skin.
Let me take you through my absolute favorites—the 9 best natural and organic face washes that have truly worked for me and are all editor-reviewed.
What to Look For in a Natural Face Wash
Finding a natural face wash can be an overwhelming task with so many options on the market, so let me help break it down for you. These are the top qualities I look for when picking out a product:
1. Free from Harsh Chemicals (No Sulfates, Parabens, or Synthetic Fragrances)
I prefer face washes that don’t contain sulfates or parabens. Sulfates can be drying and strip your skin of natural oils, while parabens have been linked to potential health concerns. Synthetic fragrances are often full of chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. That’s why I always choose products with clean, plant-based ingredients.
2. Certified Organic Ingredients
When a product is made from certified organic ingredients, I know it’s been grown without pesticides or harmful chemicals. This is important for me because I want to make sure the ingredients I’m putting on my skin are as pure and nourishing as possible.
3. Cruelty-Free & Vegan
Ethical beauty is also crucial. I always opt for brands that don’t test on animals and don’t use any animal-derived ingredients. It’s a win for my skin and a win for the planet.
4. Gentle Yet Effective
A good natural face wash should cleanse your skin without stripping it of essential moisture. Gentle formulas that can clean deeply but maintain your skin’s hydration are the best.
5. Suitability for My Skin Type
Everyone’s skin is different, so it’s important to choose a face wash that works for your specific needs. Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin, there’s a natural face wash for you.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into the face washes that I trust most!
1. Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser
One of the first natural face washes I ever fell in love with was Philosophy’s Purity Made Simple. This cleanser is incredibly versatile—perfect for daily use and gentle enough for sensitive skin. I love how it removes makeup, dirt, and oil in one simple step. Plus, it’s nourishing and leaves my skin feeling hydrated rather than stripped.
- Best for: All skin types
- Why I love it: It’s a true multitasker—cleanses, removes makeup, and hydrates all at once.
- Price: $28 for 8 oz
- Buy here: Philosophy
2. Juice Beauty Organic Facial Wash
Juice Beauty is known for their organic formulations, and their Organic Facial Wash doesn’t disappoint. Infused with organic grape juice, aloe vera, and a blend of botanicals, this gentle cleanser leaves your skin feeling refreshed without any irritation. It’s especially great if you prefer a product that doesn’t dry out your skin after cleansing.
- Best for: Oily to combination skin
- Why I love it: The soothing aloe vera helps balance my skin, and the grape juice adds a nourishing touch that makes my skin feel soft and rejuvenated.
- Price: $26 for 4 oz
- Buy here: Juice Beauty
3. Acure Brightening Cleansing Gel
I’ve been a fan of Acure for years. Their Brightening Cleansing Gel is a standout because of its ability to brighten and clarify dull skin. It’s packed with antioxidants, including pomegranate and blackberry, that fight free radicals while keeping your skin feeling fresh. This gel is light enough for everyday use but effective at removing impurities.
- Best for: Normal to oily skin
- Why I love it: This cleanser not only brightens but also smooths the texture of my skin. It’s refreshing and gives me an instant glow.
- Price: Approximately $10.99 for 4 fl oz
- Buy here: Acure
4. 100% Pure Tea Tree & Willow Clarifying Cleanser
When I feel a breakout coming on, I reach for 100% Pure’s Tea Tree & Willow Clarifying Cleanser. This face wash is my go-to for clearing acne without drying out my skin. Tea tree oil is well-known for its acne-fighting properties, and willow bark acts as a gentle exfoliant. It’s a natural solution that tackles breakouts without the harsh chemicals.
- Best for: Acne-prone skin
- Why I love it: It helps calm my acne while keeping my skin moisturized. It’s gentle but really effective at targeting blemishes.
- Price: Approximately $30 for 3.4 oz
- Buy here: 100% Pure
5. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap (Baby Unscented)
Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Soap has been a staple in my skincare routine for a long time. This unscented version is perfect for those with sensitive skin, like me. The castile soap is made with plant oils, so it’s incredibly gentle on the skin but still very effective at cleansing. I often use this as a base for my morning or nighttime routine—it never irritates and always leaves my skin feeling soft.
- Best for: Sensitive skin
- Why I love it: The formula is simple, clean, and versatile. I trust it to wash my face without any redness or irritation.
- Price: $16 for 16 oz
- Buy here: Dr. Bronner’s
6. Herbivore Botanicals Pink Clay Cleansing Soap Bar
Herbivore Botanicals’ Pink Clay Cleansing Soap Bar has been a delightful addition to my routine. The pink clay gently detoxifies my skin while providing a light exfoliation. It’s perfect for days when I want to give my skin a deep cleanse without over-drying it. The soap bar is super luxurious, and the scent is just the right balance of fresh and floral.
- Best for: Normal to dry skin
- Why I love it: It’s a natural, luxurious bar that deeply cleanses and softens my skin without causing any irritation.
- Price: Approximately $12 for 4 oz
- Buy here: Herbivore Botanicals
7. True Botanicals Nourishing Cleanser
True Botanicals is all about high-performance, natural skincare, and their Nourishing Cleanser is no exception. This rich, creamy cleanser helps calm and hydrate my skin, especially on those days when my complexion feels stressed or dehydrated. It’s packed with antioxidants and soothing ingredients, like aloe and green tea, which provide much-needed nourishment.
- Best for: Dry or mature skin
- Why I love it: It’s deeply moisturizing and never leaves my skin feeling dry or tight. It’s like a mini facial every time I use it.
- Price: Approximately $48 for 4 oz
- Buy here: True Botanicals
8. Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser
Tata Harper’s Regenerating Cleanser is a luxurious exfoliating cleanser that I reach for when my skin feels like it needs a reset. It’s gentle enough for daily use but has natural exfoliants (like apricot microspheres) that polish the skin without causing irritation. I love how smooth and fresh my skin feels after using this one.
- Best for: All skin types, especially dull or uneven skin
- Why I love it: It gives my skin an instant glow, leaving it smooth and radiant.
- Price: $92 for 4 oz
- Buy here: Tata Harper
9. Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash
Ursa Major’s Fantastic Face Wash is a refreshing gel that works wonders in the morning. It has a minty, invigorating scent and a formula that removes impurities without drying out my skin. I love how it energizes my face, making me feel awake and ready for the day ahead.
- Best for: All skin types
- Why I love it: It’s light, refreshing, and great for a quick morning cleanse. It leaves my skin feeling cool and refreshed.
- Price: $28 for 6 oz
- Buy here: Ursa Major
Each of these natural and organic face washes has earned a special place in my routine. They offer everything I need: effective cleansing, hydration, and nourishment—all with clean, ethical ingredients. I hope this list helps you find the right product for your skin type and skincare needs.