Overview

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser 5oz is a gentle foaming face wash designed to cleanse while preserving the skin's moisture balance. This cleanser is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, making it an ideal option for those seeking a daily facial cleanser that won't irritate. Its light, foamy texture helps to lift away dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Perfect for use in the morning or evening, this face wash offers a refreshing cleanse that leaves skin feeling clean and nourished.

Key Ingredients & Benefits

This face wash is enriched with key ingredients like squalane and avocado oil, which help to replenish moisture and support the skin barrier. Squalane works to deeply hydrate, while avocado oil nourishes the skin with essential fatty acids. The gentle formulation is designed to maintain the skin's natural pH balance, preventing dryness or irritation. Together, these ingredients provide a hydrating cleanse that leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and moisturized without any tightness.

Best For

The Ultra Facial Cleanser is best suited for those looking for a gentle daily cleanser that won't compromise skin's moisture balance. It's ideal for people with sensitive skin, as its soothing ingredients help reduce irritation while cleansing. This face wash is perfect for anyone needing extra hydration, especially those with dry or combination skin. Whether you need a morning refresh or a nighttime cleanse, this product provides effective, non-stripping cleansing for everyday use.

User Feedback

Many users appreciate how the Ultra Facial Cleanser effectively removes dirt and impurities without leaving their skin feeling tight or dry. It's often praised for being incredibly gentle, making it a top choice for those with sensitive or reactive skin. However, some users feel it could offer a deeper clean for oilier skin types. On the positive side, most find that it delivers long-lasting hydration, leaving their skin soft and refreshed after each wash, with minimal to no irritation.

Pros

  • This cleanser effectively removes dirt and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture.
  • The formula is gentle and ideal for sensitive skin, providing hydration without irritation.
  • It leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth, not tight or dry after use.
  • Works well for daily use, offering a mild cleanse suitable for morning and evening routines.
  • The foaming texture is light and easy to apply, creating a pleasant experience during use.
  • Free from fragrances and parabens, making it a safe choice for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

Cons

  • Some users feel it may not be strong enough to fully remove heavy makeup or sunscreen.
  • Not ideal for those with oily skin who may require a deeper cleanse to control excess oil.
  • A few users reported that it doesn’t provide enough hydration for very dry skin.
  • The product’s mild exfoliation may not be sufficient for individuals seeking more intense exfoliation.
  • Some might find the foaming texture too light compared to richer cleansers.
  • The price point is higher than similar drugstore options, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, the ratings for this product reflect both its strengths and minor pain points. Only authentic, high-quality reviews were considered, filtering out spam, bot, and incentivized feedback. Overall, Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser 5oz receives high marks for its gentle and effective cleansing, while a few users noted its less ideal performance for extremely oily skin types.

Effectiveness for Sensitive Skin
91%
Many users with sensitive skin appreciate how gentle this cleanser is, noting that it doesn't cause irritation or dryness. The formula is well-loved for its ability to cleanse thoroughly without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier, which makes it a great choice for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Some users with extremely sensitive skin have mentioned that they didn't experience as much hydration or comfort after use, especially in dry conditions. A few others felt that it was a bit too mild for their skin's needs, requiring additional products for full moisturization.
Moisturizing Effect
88%
Buyers commonly praise the cleanser for its moisturizing properties, with many noting that it leaves skin feeling soft and nourished, not stripped. The combination of squalane and avocado oil helps to hydrate the skin, making it an excellent choice for daily use, especially in colder or drier months.
A few users pointed out that while it offers initial moisture, the hydration doesn’t last as long throughout the day. For those with very dry skin, some felt that it didn’t provide enough moisture on its own, requiring them to layer heavier creams afterward.
Gentleness
94%
Users repeatedly highlight the gentle nature of this face wash, with many reporting that it doesn’t leave the skin feeling tight or uncomfortable after use. Its mild, foaming formula is especially suitable for those with delicate or easily irritated skin, making it a reliable everyday cleanser.
While most found the formula soothing, some users who prefer a more robust exfoliation or deeper clean mentioned that this cleanser’s gentle approach didn’t meet their expectations. A few users with oilier skin felt that it didn’t do enough to fully cleanse and remove excess oils.
Texture & Feel
89%
The light, foamy texture of this cleanser is a favorite among users, with many mentioning how it lathers up nicely and feels soft on the skin. It’s easy to rinse off without leaving any residue, offering a refreshing, clean feel post-use.
Not everyone was fond of the texture; some users found the foam to be too light and preferred a richer lather. Additionally, a few mentioned that the product’s consistency can feel slightly too thin for their liking, especially compared to other, thicker cleansers.
Hydration Longevity
85%
Many reviewers appreciated that the cleanser delivers instant hydration after use, helping to lock moisture into the skin. This makes it a good choice for those looking for a refreshing morning cleanse or a gentle nighttime option to maintain hydration.
Several buyers noted that the moisturizing effect tends to fade a few hours after use, requiring them to apply additional hydrating products. Some felt that it wasn’t enough for all-day moisture, particularly in drier climates or seasons.
Suitability for Dry Skin
86%
Dry skin users report that this product works well to cleanse without exacerbating dryness. The inclusion of hydrating ingredients like avocado oil and squalane helps to replenish moisture, making it a solid option for those seeking a mild cleanser that won't dry them out.
Despite its moisturizing ingredients, a few dry skin users felt that it didn’t provide enough nourishment or hydration on its own. Some suggested pairing it with more intensive moisturizers or oils to achieve optimal results for dry or very dry skin.
Scent (Fragrance-Free) Preference
95%
The fragrance-free nature of this cleanser is widely appreciated, especially by users with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies. Many find that it works well for those who prefer scent-free skincare or want to avoid potential irritation from added fragrances.
Although most users enjoy the lack of scent, a small number found it less appealing for their routine, as they prefer cleansers with a more invigorating or refreshing fragrance. For some, the fragrance-free nature felt too basic, missing a bit of a sensory experience.
Packaging & Dispensing
83%
The tube packaging is easy to use and travel-friendly, with users appreciating the controlled dispensing that helps to avoid waste. The packaging is sturdy and keeps the formula secure, making it a convenient choice for daily use.
A few users found the tube’s opening to be a bit too small, making it harder to dispense the product when it’s nearing the end. Some also mentioned that the design could be improved for more efficient squeezing, especially when there's less product left inside.
Application Ease
90%
Many buyers highlight how easy it is to apply this cleanser. The light foam spreads easily and rinses off without effort, making it a convenient and quick addition to daily skincare routines, whether in the morning or evening.
Some users with oilier or acne-prone skin felt that it didn’t cleanse deeply enough during application, requiring them to repeat the process. A few also noted that they preferred a more intense scrub or lather, which this formula doesn't provide.
Value for Money
92%
Most users agree that this product offers great value for money, considering its high-quality ingredients and effectiveness. Many find it worth the price, especially for a gentle, reliable daily cleanser from a reputable brand like Kiehl’s.
While generally positive, some users feel that the price is slightly on the higher end for a cleanser, especially given that other similar products exist at lower price points. A few mentioned that they’d like to see a larger size option for better long-term value.
Cleanliness & Residue
84%
The cleanser is often praised for thoroughly cleaning the skin without leaving any residue behind. It provides a refreshing, clean feeling after use, which is a key reason many choose it for their daily skincare routines.
Some users noted that they occasionally felt a slight residue left behind after rinsing, which could be a concern for those preferring an entirely residue-free experience. A few reported that it didn’t fully remove heavier sunscreen or makeup as effectively.
Customer Support/Service
78%
22%
Kiehl’s customer service is generally praised for being responsive and helpful. Many buyers appreciate their easy access to support for returns or product queries, providing a positive experience overall.
A few users reported slower-than-expected response times from customer service and expressed frustration with certain return processes. Some also mentioned that their inquiries about product ingredients or formulations weren’t addressed as thoroughly as expected.

Suitable for:

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser 5oz is ideal for individuals seeking a gentle, everyday face wash that can effectively cleanse without causing irritation. Those with sensitive or dry skin will particularly appreciate the product’s hydrating and replenishing properties, as it helps maintain moisture balance while cleansing. It's also a good option for people with normal to combination skin who need a mild, non-stripping formula to use daily. The foaming texture and fragrance-free formulation make this face wash suitable for anyone looking for a soothing, light cleanse as part of their morning or evening routine.

Not suitable for:

This product may not be the best choice for users with oily or acne-prone skin who require a deeper, more intense cleansing action. Some individuals might find the moisturizing effect to be insufficient, especially if they have very dry skin or need more targeted hydration. Additionally, people who prefer cleansers with strong scents may be disappointed, as this face wash is fragrance-free. Those looking for a powerful exfoliating action or a richer lather might find it too mild for their needs, and some users may feel it doesn’t completely remove heavier makeup or sunscreen.

Specifications

  • Size: Comes in a 5oz (150mL) tube, perfect for daily use.
  • Type: Foaming facial cleanser that creates a light, bubbly lather.
  • Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Key Ingredients: Formulated with squalane and avocado oil to hydrate and replenish the skin.
  • Free From: Free from parabens, fragrances, and harsh chemicals.
  • pH Balance: Designed to maintain the skin’s natural pH balance during cleansing.
  • Texture: Light, foamy texture that gently cleanses without stripping the skin.
  • Fragrance: Fragrance-free, ideal for sensitive skin and those avoiding strong scents.
  • Moisturizing: Helps replenish moisture while cleansing, leaving skin hydrated.
  • Exfoliation: Gently exfoliates while maintaining the skin's natural barrier.
  • Packaging: Comes in a convenient, easy-to-use tube packaging.
  • Usage: Recommended for daily use in both morning and evening routines.
  • Suitability: Perfect for individuals with dry, sensitive, or combination skin.
  • Formulation: A gentle, hydrating formula that does not dry or irritate the skin.
  • Absorption: Quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and refreshed.
  • Hydration: Helps maintain skin hydration, even after rinsing.
  • Exfoliant Type: Contains natural exfoliating ingredients that are mild on the skin.
  • Application: Can be applied to damp skin for best results, then rinsed off.
  • Hypoallergenic: Hypoallergenic formula, safe for sensitive skin and reducing risk of irritation.

FAQ

To use this cleanser, apply a small amount to damp skin and gently massage in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. It works best as the first step in your morning and evening skincare routine, helping to remove impurities without drying or irritating the skin.

Yes, this cleanser is formulated to be gentle on all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its non-stripping, pH-balanced formula helps to cleanse without drying out or irritating the skin, making it an excellent choice for both oily and dry skin types.

No, this product is free from fragrances and parabens, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive skin or those concerned about potential irritants in their skincare. It provides a gentle cleanse without the added fragrance, ensuring it’s safe for daily use.

Yes, this cleanser is specifically designed to help hydrate and maintain the skin’s moisture balance. Ingredients like squalane and avocado oil nourish and replenish the skin, which makes it an excellent choice for those with dry or dehydrated skin.

While this product effectively removes everyday impurities, it may not be strong enough to fully remove heavy makeup or waterproof products. For best results, consider using a separate makeup remover before using the cleanser for a thorough cleanse.

Yes, this cleanser’s gentle formula is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores or exacerbate acne. Its mild exfoliating properties help keep the skin’s natural pH balance intact, making it a good option for those with acne-prone skin who need a gentle, hydrating wash.

You can use this cleanser twice daily, in the morning and evening, as part of your regular skincare routine. Its gentle, hydrating properties make it suitable for frequent use without causing irritation or dryness.

No, many users appreciate that this cleanser leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated, without any tightness. Its formula is designed to replenish the skin's moisture barrier, ensuring that your skin stays moisturized after use.

Yes, this face wash is ideal for sensitive skin, thanks to its fragrance-free and paraben-free formula. It gently cleanses without causing irritation, making it a great choice for individuals with reactive or sensitive skin.

Yes, this cleanser is compatible with most skincare products. It works well as the first step in your routine, allowing other products like serums and moisturizers to absorb more effectively. Just be sure to follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.