Hello! I wanted to share a round-up of four cleansers I’ve tested in my ongoing quest to find a product that works for my dry, dehydrated skin in a dry climate.

I usally wear light makeup daily and prefer not to use oil cleansers, instead pairing Bioderma micellar water with a gel cleanser. For post-cleansing, I follow with either vitamin C or retinal, and a gel-based moisturiser.

Each cleanser was tested both on dry skin (applied before water, then emulsified) and as a traditional wet-face cleanse. I also checked residual makeup using a cotton pad afterward.

1. Bioderma Sensibio Gel Moussant

Size : 200ml

Price : $22.99 (Chemist Warehouse) / $11.50 per 100ml

Rating : ★★☆☆☆

This cleanser effectively removes makeup, even waterproof mascara, which was a pleasant surprise for a gel cleanser. However, it’s far too drying for my skin and leaves that tight, uncomfortable feeling I try to avoid. It also stings my eyes, which is a dealbreaker.

That said, it’s a very clean, no-frills formula with a hygienic pump that doesn’t clog. If you have oilier skin and wear minimal eye makeup, it might work for you.

Would I repurchase? No.

2. Cetaphil Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser

Size : 236ml

Price : $13.99 / $5.93 per 100ml

Rating : ★½☆☆☆

This was slightly less drying than the Bioderma, but still left my skin feeling tight. Despite being marketed as a makeup-removing cleanser, it struggled to break down light makeup. It’s affordable and gentle, but for my needs, it just didn’t deliver.

Would I repurchase? No.

3. Fresh Soy Face Cleanser

Size : 50ml

Price : $23 (Sephora) / $46 per 100ml

Rating : ★★★★☆

This cleanser is incredible, hydrating, gentle, zero tightness, and it leaves no film behind. It doesn’t sting my eyes, rinses cleanly, and feels like a dream to use. My only downsides are the strong cucumber-rose scent (which I don’t mind, but some might) and the steep price tag.

If this were more affordable or came in a better format (I’d love a pump), it would be my holy grail.

Would I repurchase? Yes, if budget allows.

4. The Body Shop Chamomile One Step Cleanser

Size : 245ml

Price : $28 / $11.43 per 100ml

Rating : ★★★★☆

This is the newest addition to my routine, and I’m honestly impressed. It removes most makeup (though waterproof formulas need some extra help), feels silky on the skin, and causes no dryness or eye sting. Its texture is similar to the Fresh cleanser but more spreadable and unscented.

The only downside is it leaves a slight oily film. While the cotton pad test shows it’s cleansing effectively, it doesn’t feel squeaky clean, which might bother some.

Would I repurchase? Too early to say, but leaning yes.

In Summary 

So far, Fresh and The Body Shop are clear frontrunners for my dry, sensitive skin. I'm still open to trying more though so if you have dry/dehydrated skin and a favourite cleanser, I’d love to hear your recommendations!