Top 5 SLS-Free Face Washes

Those who know or follow me will know I'm a huge advocate of cleansing creams and oils. However there are some people, that regardless of how much you nag educate them on gentle and effective cleansing, they just LOVE the feel of washing their face. In fact this post is prompted by a very close friend of mine, who after 30 minutes of us (begrudgingly) trying to find a suitable cleanser, she blurted out "I just really like washing my face!!", the sheer relief as the words left her mouth were enough to let me know that no amount of me selling her the benefits of a cream cleanser that was going to change her mind.

I must admit, I understand where she's coming from, especially in the morning, I like that clean feeling you get from a facial wash. Especially when used with my Clarisonic.

Just because you're using a facial wash though, doesn't mean you need to choose a harsh product that will leave your skin feeling stripped or irritated. There are some great SLS-free facial washes on the market, that will satisfy you're desire to wash, without compromising your skin!

So if you're one of those people that absolutely MUST use a facial wash, then at least pick one from my Top 5 SLS-free Face Washes.

1. Elemis Sensitive Cleansing Wash - The Sensitive One

I'm currently using this one myself in the mornings, which came in my Elemis Skin Saviours Kit. It's quite a thick gel, which feels luxurious on the skin. It doesn't foam all that much (which is a good thing) so it's suitable even for dry and sensitive skins. It contains Thyme, German Chamomile and Lady's Mantle, renowned for their anti-bacterial and soothing properties.

Retailing at £21 for 200ml.
Suitable for; All Skin Types.
Will remove light makeup; Yes

2. Super Facialist Purifying Cleansing Wash - The Blackhead One

This is from the Tea Flower range and contains Salicylic Acid, which makes it an effective treatment  for clearing blocked pores and congestion. Most importantly and unlike most "acne washes", it's free from SLS and Alcohol, so it's gentle on the skin. It has a light and refreshing fragrance and good for balancing the skin.

Retailing at £7.99 for 150ml.
Suitable for; Oily / Combination skins, prone to blocked pores.
Will remove light makeup; Yes

3. M&S Pure Gently Refreshing Facial Wash - The Budget One

Although I wasn't keen on the cream cleanser or the toner from the range, I was quite impressed with the face wash. It was both 'gentle' and 'refreshing', leaving the skin feeling clean and not stripped. For the price, I couldn't moan!

Retailing at £5 for 125ml.
Suitable for; Normal / Combination skins.
Will remove light makeup; No

4. Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash - The Exfoliating One

Another one from Elemis, this time we're talking enzymes. I used this long before I got into acids and is a gentler form of exfoliation. This uses enzymes to slough away the dead skin and stimulate cell renewal, giving a smoother appearance to the skin. It smells absolutely fantastic too!

Retailing at £29 for 200ml.
Suitable for; All Skin Types.
Will remove light makeup; No

5. Premae Balance Rescue Face Wash - The Natural One

This one is not only 100% natural but also free from allergens. Making it particularly beneficial to people with sensitive skin and / or allergies. It contains Aloe Vera and Coconut derived foaming agents to give a lovely light foam. It smells of Lemongrass too so very refreshing for the morning.

Retailing at £21.50 for 100ml.
Suitable for; Oily / Combination skins.
Will remove light make up; Yes

BUT please, please, please, If you can switch to a cream or oil cleanser in the evenings. Especially if you have dry / dehydrated skin or wear a lot of makeup. Your skin will thank you.

Pampered Prince