Caring for your skin starts with a good cleanse. Niacinamide has become a go-to ingredient for anyone looking to smooth texture, balance oil, and support the skin barrier without irritation.
How we choose
This article highlights eight facial cleansers formulated with niacinamide and other skin-friendly ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and gentle exfoliants. From foaming gels for oily skin to creamy washes for sensitive types, each product brings something slightly different. Use this roundup to compare formats, key features, and price points so you can find a cleanser that fits your routine without guesswork.
Our 8 Picks
CeraVeFoaming Facial Cleanser, Daily Face Wash for Oily Skin, Hyaluronic Acid + Ceramides + Niacinamide, Fragrance Free, Non-Drying Oil Control Face Wash, 19 Fluid Ounces
What it is
A foaming facial cleanser formulated with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and three essential ceramides for daily use on oily skin.
Why it's worth it
This gel-to-foam cleanser removes excess oil and makeup without leaving skin feeling tight. It is well suited to those with normal to oily skin who want a non-drying cleanser that supports the skin barrier. The brand states that it includes three essential ceramides to help maintain the skin's natural barrier, and hyaluronic acid for hydration. Its fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula makes it a practical choice for daily morning and evening use.
Caveat
The foaming action may be too lightweight for those who prefer a richer, creamier cleanser.
La Roche-PosayToleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser, Oil Free Face Wash for Women & Men with Niacinamide + Ceramides, Pore Cleanser Safe For Sensitive Skin, Won't Dry Out Skin, Soap Free
What it is
A purifying foaming facial cleanser with niacinamide and ceramide-3, designed for sensitive skin.
Why it's worth it
This soap-free, sulfate-free cleanser removes impurities and excess oil while maintaining the skin's natural pH balance. It is a good fit for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin who need a gentle yet effective daily face wash. The brand notes that 94% of users reported cleaner, healthier skin after daily use. It also contains La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water to soothe.
Caveat
Its foaming gel texture may not be rich enough for those accustomed to cream-based cleansers.
Avène Tolerance Daily Foaming Facial Cleanser, For All Skin Types - Sensitive, Reactive Skin, Glycerin & Niacinamide, Face Wash Removes Makeup, Fragrance-Free, Dermatologist Tested, Non-Comedogenic
What it is
A daily foaming facial cleanser for all skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin, containing glycerin and niacinamide.
Why it's worth it
This gentle foaming face wash removes makeup and impurities while helping maintain the skin's barrier. It is well suited to those with sensitive or reactive skin who need a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cleanser that won't strip moisture. The brand emphasizes that it is dermatologist tested and formulated with Avène Thermal Spring Water to soothe.
Caveat
The foaming action may be less effective at removing heavy waterproof makeup compared to an oil-based cleanser.
OlayFace Wash, Daily Facial Cleanser with Niacinamide, Peptides & Glycerin - Clarifying, Refreshes Skin Surface, Refines Appearance of Pores - Sulfate-Free, Paraben-Free, Oil-Free, 16 Oz
What it is
A clarifying daily facial cleanser with niacinamide, peptides, and glycerin, designed for oily and combination skin.
Why it's worth it
This sulfate-free, paraben-free gel cleanser helps refine the appearance of pores while removing dirt and oil. It is a good fit for those with oily or combination skin who want a lightweight, non-drying cleanser to use morning and night. The brand states that it helps manage excess oil and buildup.
Caveat
The clarifying effect may be too mild for those with very oily skin who require stronger exfoliation.
CeraVeAcne Foaming Cream Cleanser, 4% Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash With Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides, Gentle Daily Acne Treatment For Face
What it is
A cream-to-foam acne face wash with 4% benzoyl peroxide, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides.
Why it's worth it
This cleanser transforms from a cream to a foam, treating active acne while hydrating and supporting the skin barrier. It is well suited to those with acne-prone skin who need a daily treatment that doesn't over-strip. The brand includes hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to help retain moisture and calm skin. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
Caveat
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics and may cause dryness in some users, so it is best for targeted acne-prone areas.
CetaphilCream to Foam Face Wash, Hydrating Foaming Cream Cleanser, 16 oz, For Normal to Dry, Sensitive Skin, with Soothing Prebiotic Aloe, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance Free
What it is
A hydrating cream-to-foam face wash for normal to dry, sensitive skin, with prebiotic aloe and niacinamide.
Why it's worth it
This cleanser lathers into a rich foam while hydrating and soothing the skin. It is a good fit for those with dry or sensitive skin seeking a non-stripping cleanser that preserves the moisture barrier. The brand formulates it with niacinamide to support even skin tone and glycerin for hydration. It is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
Caveat
Its hydrating formula may not remove heavy makeup as thoroughly as a dedicated oil cleanser.
e.l.f.SKIN Blemish Breakthrough Clarifying Cleanser, Gel Cleanser For Removing Makeup, Controlling Oil & Clarifying Pores, 1% Salicylic Acid
What it is
A gel cleanser with 1% salicylic acid and niacinamide, designed to clarify pores and control oil.
Why it's worth it
This daily acne-fighting cleanser helps reduce current blemishes and prevent new ones while niacinamide works to improve skin tone. It is well suited to those with oily or acne-prone skin who want a gentle yet effective clarifying wash. The brand's formula also includes zinc PCA and tranexamic acid. It is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
Caveat
The salicylic acid concentration is moderate, so it may not be sufficient for severe acne without additional treatments.
e.l.f.SKIN Pure Skin Cleanser, Non-Foaming Gentle Daily Face Wash For Sensitive Skin, Removes Impurities Without Irritation, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
What it is
A non-foaming cream cleanser with niacinamide, oat milk, and allantoin for sensitive skin.
Why it's worth it
This gentle cleanser removes impurities without irritation, leaving skin hydrated and soothed. It is a good fit for those with sensitive or reactive skin who need a mild, non-stripping daily face wash. The brand includes niacinamide to help minimize pores and even out skin tone. It is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and vegan.
Caveat
Its non-foaming texture may not provide the deep-cleaning sensation that some users prefer.
How to choose
How to choose the right niacinamide cleansers that support smooth, balanced skin
Takeaway
All eight cleansers bring niacinamide into your daily wash in slightly different ways, from acne-targeted formulas to soothing cream cleansers. The right pick depends on your skin’s needs and your texture preference. Whatever you choose, a consistent, gentle cleanse can go a long way toward smoother, more balanced-looking skin.
