Best Face Washes and Cleansers for Dry Skin
Dry skin is a dermatological condition characterized by a lack of moisture and essential oils in the outer layer of the skin, leading to tightness, flakiness, and a dull appearance.
Individuals with dry skin often experience discomfort, itching, and an increased susceptibility to fine lines and wrinkles.
Managing dry skin involves adopting a skincare routine that prioritizes hydration and nourishment to restore the skin’s natural moisture balance.
In Pakistan, where environmental factors such as dry weather and pollution can exacerbate skin dryness, choosing the right facewash becomes crucial.
In this guide, we will review some of the best face washes for dry skin in Pakistan that are affordable and easily accessible.
These face washes are formulated with hydrating ingredients that replenish moisture, soothe irritation, and promote a healthier complexion.
List of Best Face washes for Dry Skin in Pakistan
The following curated list features some of the best facewashes renowned for their effectiveness in addressing dry skin concerns, providing a refreshing and moisturizing experience for a vibrant complexion.
- Simple Water Boost Facial Gel Wash
- The Body Shop Vitamin E Facial Wash
- CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser
- Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
- Himalaya Moisturizing Aloe Vera Face Wash
- Conatural Rose Face Wash
- Hemani Moisturizing Olive Face Wash
1. Simple Water Boost Facial Gel Wash
This face wash is like a breath of fresh air for your skin. The special micellar cleansing bubbles effortlessly move across your face, drawing in makeup and grime, leaving your skin instantly revitalized.
Ideal for those with dry and sensitive skin, this gel wash has been tested and proven in both clinical trials and by users to not over dry the skin.
The micellar cleansing bubbles work their magic, delicately and effectively cleansing your face, wiping away dirt and makeup.
The lightweight gel formula smoothly glides onto your skin, leaving it feeling not just clean, but also refreshed, silky, and smooth.
Price: 1,850 PKR (At Publish Time)
Key Ingredients: Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E
Size: 150ml
2. The Body Shop Vitamin E Facial Wash
The Body Shop Vitamin E Gentle Face Wash is a refreshing and gentle cleansing experience, leaving your face squeaky clean without stripping away vital moisture.
Tailored for dry skin, this face wash effectively cleanses your skin, creating a soft, silky lather that washes away impurities and leaves you feeling revitalized.
Packed with an impressive 95% natural-origin ingredients and fortified with vitamin E, this gentle face wash is suitable for use morning, noon, or night.
Price: 4,640 PKR
Key Ingredient: Vitamin E
Size: 125ml
3. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a gentle, non-irritating face wash designed for normal to dry skin.
Formulated with hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides, it helps restore the skin’s protective barrier and lock in moisture, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated without over-stripping it.
The MVE Delivery Technology ensures that ceramides are released slowly over time, providing long-lasting hydration. This non-comedogenic cleanser is perfect for maintaining skin’s moisture balance while effectively cleansing.
Price: 6970 PKR
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides
Size: 355ml
4. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser
Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser is a lightweight, water-activated face wash designed for normal, dry, and sensitive skin.
Formulated with a Hyaluronic Gel Matrix, it locks in hydration and releases moisture throughout the day as needed. This gel cleanser effectively removes stubborn oil, makeup, and dirt while boosting hydration and protecting the skin’s barrier.
Dermatologist tested, it leaves the skin feeling refreshingly clean and supple, making it perfect for maintaining a hydrated, smooth complexion.
Price: 2,250 PKR
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
size : 200ml
5. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a creamy formula designed for dry to normal, sensitive skin. Clinically proven to provide continuous hydration, it helps protect against dryness while leaving the skin soft and moisturized after cleansing.
Formulated with Micellar Technology, it gently removes dirt, makeup, and impurities without irritating the skin.
The dermatologist-backed blend of niacinamide (vitamin B3), panthenol (vitamin B5), and glycerin strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier, defending against dryness, irritation, and other signs of sensitivity. Dermatologist tested, it’s proven to be gentle on sensitive skin.
Price: 5,600 PKR
Key Ingredients: Glycerine, Niacinamide, VB5
Size: 235ml
6. Himalaya Moisturizing Aloe Vera Face Wash
Discover the goodness of Himalaya’s Moisturizing Aloe Vera Face Wash – a soap-free formula that pampers your skin with every wash.
Enriched with the natural benefits of Aloe Vera and cucumber, both renowned for their moisturizing properties, this face wash ensures that your skin feels hydrated, smooth, and supple after each use.
It is both effective and affordable.
Price: 699 PKR
Key Ingredients: Cucumber, Aloe Vera
Size: 150ml
7. Conatural Rose Face Wash
The Conatural Rose Face Wash is a gentle cleanser enriched with soothing rosewater, providing nourishment and revitalization to dry skin, promoting a healthier-looking complexion.
The SLS-free base is lusciously creamy, effectively dissolving dirt, oil, and makeup without upsetting the skin’s delicate pH balance or stripping away its natural oils.
Embrace the goodness of Conatural for a skincare experience that prioritizes your skin’s health and natural beauty.
Price: 1,099 PKR
Key Ingredient: Rosa Damascene Flower Water, Glycerin, Chamomile
Size: 150ml
8. Hemani Moisturizing Olive Face Wash
Hemani’s Moisturizing Face Wash with Olive Extract is crafted to cleanse, nourish, and refresh dry skin.
The olive extract moisturizes, while effectively washing away impurities. Your skin is left feeling firm, smooth, and healthy. Enjoy the simplicity of clean and revitalized skin with this gentle face wash.
Infused with the goodness of olive extract, this formulation is a treat for your skin.
Price: 350 PKR
Key Ingredient: Olive oil
Size:100ml
Related: 10 Common Face Washing Mistakes & How to Overcome Them
What is Dry Skin?
Dry skin is a common condition where the skin does not have enough moisture in its outermost layer, known as the skin barrier.
This lack of hydration can make the skin feel itchy, tight, and uncomfortable.
It can also make the skin look dull, flaky, and visibly dry. You might notice that your skin has more fine lines and wrinkles when it’s dry.
The skin barrier is essential for protecting the skin and keeping it healthy. When it’s not properly hydrated, the skin can’t perform its protective functions as well. This makes dry skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.
Related: 10 Moisturizer Mistakes You Might Be Making
Here are some characteristics of dry skin:
- Itchy and Tight Sensation
Dry skin often feels itchy and tight, especially after washing or exposure to cold, dry air.
- Dull and Flaky Appearance
Without enough moisture, the skin can look dull and may develop flaky patches.
- Pronounced Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Because dry skin lacks moisture, fine lines and wrinkles can appear more noticeable. Hydrated skin is more plump and smooth, which helps to minimize the appearance of these signs of aging.
- Sensitive and Easily Irritated
Dry skin is more prone to irritation from environmental factors, skincare products, and certain fabrics. It can become red and inflamed more easily than well-hydrated skin.
Factors That Influence Skin’s Dryness
Many factors can contribute to your skin feeling dry. Here are some key reasons:
- Low Humidity
Living in or being exposed to environments with low humidity levels can cause your skin to lose moisture.
- Harsh Soaps and Detergents
Using soaps or cleansers that are too harsh can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
- Genetic Predisposition
Some people naturally produce less sebum (oil), which can lead to drier skin. This is often due to genetics.
- Medications
Certain medications can cause dryness as a side effect. For example, treatments for acne or other conditions may dry out the skin.
- Chronic Conditions
Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and diabetes can affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture, making it prone to dryness.
- Compromised Skin Barrier
The skin barrier, or stratum corneum, is responsible for keeping moisture in and irritants out. When this barrier is compromised, it becomes easier for moisture to escape and for irritants to enter, leading to dryness.
Overall, regardless of the specific cause, dry skin typically results from a compromised skin barrier. To manage dry skin, it is important to address these factors by using gentle skincare products, maintaining a humid environment, and seeking medical advice if necessary.
Also read: When Should You Apply Vitamin C Serum – Day or Night?
How to Choose the Right Face Wash for Your Dry Skin
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Identify Ingredients
Hydrating Ingredients:
Look for face washes that contain ingredients known for their moisturizing properties. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, glycerin helps to draw water into the skin, aloe vera soothes and hydrates, and ceramides help to restore the skin’s natural barrier.
Avoid Drying Ingredients: Steer clear of face washes with alcohol, sulfates, and strong fragrances, as these can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate dryness.
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Check the Formulation
Opt for creamy, lotion-based, or oil-based cleansers rather than foaming cleansers, as they tend to be more moisturizing.
Creamy Cleansers: These are often richer and provide a hydrating effect, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple. They typically have a thicker consistency and are less likely to strip the skin’s natural oils.
Lotion-Based Cleansers: These cleansers are lightweight but still provide good hydration. They are easy to rinse off and leave the skin feeling moisturized without any greasy residue.
Oil-Based Cleansers: These are excellent for dry skin as they dissolve makeup and impurities while maintaining the skin’s moisture balance. They often contain nourishing oils that help to soften and hydrate the skin.
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Hypoallergenic and Fragrance-Free
Products labeled as hypoallergenic are formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions, making them suitable for sensitive and dry skin. Fragrance-free products reduce the likelihood of irritation from added scents.
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Test the Product
Always patch test a new product before applying it to your whole face to see how it reacts.
By following these steps, you can select a face wash that effectively cleanses while maintaining and improving the hydration of your dry skin.
How to Use Face Wash on Dry Skin
Using a face wash properly can make a big difference in maintaining hydration for dry skin. Here are a few simple steps:
Start with Clean Hands
Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid transferring dirt and bacteria to your face.
Use Lukewarm Water
Wet your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it can strip your skin of its natural oils and exacerbate dryness.
Apply a Small Amount of Face Wash
Squeeze a small amount (about a dime-sized) of the face wash onto your fingertips.
Gently Massage onto Face
Using gentle, circular motions, massage the face wash into your skin for about 20-30 seconds. Focus on areas that tend to get oilier or where you wear makeup.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse your face with lukewarm water, ensuring that all the product is removed. Leftover cleanser can lead to dryness and irritation.
Pat Dry with a Soft Towel
Gently pat your face dry with a soft, clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate dry skin.
Follow Up with Moisturizer
Immediately apply a moisturizer suited for dry skin to lock in hydration while your skin is still slightly damp.
Use Morning and Night
Use your face wash twice daily, in the morning and before bed, to keep your skin clean and hydrated.
Best Ingredients in Face Washes and Cleansers for Dry Skin
When choosing a face wash for dry skin, look for these beneficial ingredients to keep your skin hydrated and healthy:
1. Ceramides
Ceramides are like the mortar between the skin’s cellular bricks, reinforcing the skin’s barrier and helping it retain moisture.
They protect against environmental irritants and pollution. Without enough ceramides, your skin’s barrier can weaken, leading to dryness and irritation.
2. Hyaluronic Acid
This naturally occurring sugar in the body helps maintain moisture balance in the skin. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, making it an excellent hydrating ingredient that won’t clog pores. It can significantly improve the appearance of dry skin.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that soothes and softens the skin without stripping its natural oils. It is perfect for adding hydration and calming dry, irritated skin.
4. Jojoba Oil
Derived from the jojoba plant, this oil moisturizes the skin, leaving it soft and nourished. Rich in vitamin E, fatty acids, and antioxidants, jojoba oil is great for enhancing skin comfort and hydration.
5. Squalane
Squalane oil is excellent for dry, flaky skin. It soothes and improves skin hydration, making it a valuable addition to cleansers for dry skin.
6. Glycerin
Glycerin is a humectant and emollient that attracts water to your skin’s surface while softening and smoothing your complexion. It can help improve the texture of dry, rough skin.
By choosing face washes with these ingredients, you can help keep your skin moisturized, comfortable, and healthy.
Related: 10 Best Face Washes for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin in Pakistan
Education: University of Peshawar
Abrar Ahmad holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry and has been writing about skincare for over five years. With a deep understanding of ingredients and their impact on the skin, he enjoys sharing practical, science-based skincare advice. When not writing, he loves playing with his kids.
