Table of Contents
By Lyric Fergusson
Updated on
Teaching your child to care for themselves not only makes parents’ lives easier as kids can do more and more on their own, but it also helps prepare your child to take care of themselves independently. From the early days of potty training to wearing deodorant, these skills are important to teach and model for your kids. One important self-care habit to start early on is encouraging your child to wash their face. Face washing helps eliminate germs from the day and can calm sensitive skin. This selection of face washes for kids has sweet smells, colorful bottles, and unique formulas to make this part of the routine fun for little ones. Whether your child is suffering from itchy eczema or is prone to breakouts, these face washes are sure to help your child feel squeaky clean, and confident in their skin.
Best Face Washes for Kids
1. Evereden Kids Face Wash
(Best plant-based — $$)
Why it’s great: Made from a complete blend of plant-based, organic materials, the Evereden Kids Face Wash hydrates and protects children’s delicate skin. The organic coconut water and coconut juice create a light foam that makes it easy for kids to wash independently. This face wash for kids deep cleans by removing excess dirt, oil, and pore-clogging impurities.
See Also7 Bestselling Gentle Face Washes For KidsKid-Friendly Face Wash They’ll Actually Be Excited To UseTweens Are Reaching for Adult Skincare, but Derms Actually Recommend These 8 Products for ThemIt's Not Just the Influencers: These Face Washes Worked Best for Our Teens & TweensKeep in mind: Although this has a 100% natural scent, it can be overpowering, especially for some boys who may not like the fruity smell.
Good for: Families who lead a plant-based lifestyle and want their skin care products to meet these criteria as well.
2. California Kids #superclear Willow Bark Face Wash
(Best for sensitive skin — $$)
Why it’s great: This face wash for kids is made with gentle willow bark and is free from dangerous sulfates. The California Kids #superclear Willow Bark Face Wash cleans away impurities from your child’s skin while remaining gentle on exceptionally sensitive skin that’s irritated by harsh ingredients. The gentle exfoliation leaves your little ones with smooth, calm skin.
Keep in mind: The opening in the tube is on the larger side and may cause too much product to come out at one time.
Good for: Children with sensitive skin that’s easily irritated by harsh ingredients.
3. Kidskin Gentle Skin Cleanser
(Best non-toxic — $$)
Why it’s great: The Kidskin Gentle Skin Cleanser is free from parabens, sulfates, fragrances, and gluten, ensuring only natural, safe ingredients are applied to your child’s skin. As an unscented formula, both boys and girls alike will enjoy using this face wash that soothes and calms all different skin types. The mild, frothy cleanser foams for a deep clean while simultaneously hydrating children’s skin.
Keep in mind: The container the face wash comes in may lack durability and can crack or puncture easily.
Good for: Parents who are conscious of hidden dangerous ingredients in skin care products and want to be sure their kids use a non-toxic formula.
4. TruKid Soothing Skin Face and Body Wash
(Best for eczema — $)
Why it’s great: For children with dry, red, and itchy skin, this face wash for kids is a cleansing and moisturizing wash for babies and kids, especially those suffering from eczema. The TruKid Soothing Skin Face and Body Wash can be used on both the body and face and supports the skin’s barrier function. This non-toxic and natural formula is free from phthalates and parabens while also being PETA-certified animal cruelty-free.
Keep in mind: The pump to get the face wash out can start out stiff and may be difficult for kids to use without a parent or adult to help.
Good for: Children suffering from dry, itchy skin and eczema.
5. TBH Kids Gentle Gel Face Wash
(Best gel formula — $)
Why it’s great: The TBH Kids Gentle Gel Face Wash is a soothing gel formula with cucumber, calendula, and chamomile that’s easy to use and wash off. This face wash for kids is free from unnatural color dyes, sulfates, and parabens. Ideal for both dry and oily skin, this option cleans away dirt and grime while keeping skin hydrated.
See AlsoClean, Soothe, and Protect That Precious Skin With the 2024 Parents Best Skincare Awards WinnersKeep in mind: The product is runnier, making it easier to spread all over the face, but may come out quickly from the bottle.
Good for: Kids who prefer a gel formula that’s easier to apply and wash away than some other consistencies.
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6. Everyone 3-in-1 Kids Soap
(Best all-in-one — $$)
Why it’s great: This face wash for kids also works as a shampoo and bubble bath, so your kids only need one product when bathing. Created with organic plant extracts and pure essential oils, the Everyone 3-in-1 Kids Soap has a gentle, lavender scent to provide an energizing calm. EWG-certified, this all-in-one choice is cruelty-free and GMO-free while also using packaging made from 100% recycled materials.
Keep in mind: Due to the higher water content, this soap works well for sensitive skin but may not foam or bubble up as much as other artificial options.
Good for: Multi-tasking parents who want a face wash for their children that also works as a shampoo and body wash.
7. Natural Outcome Teen Skin Face Wash
(Best for acne-prone skin — $$)
Why it’s great: The Natural Outcome Teen Skin Face Wash is made from natural, non-toxic ingredients that can help clear acne and blemish with continued use. The soothing foam cleanser is oil-free and safe for all skin types. A special combination of willow bark, vitamin C extract, and witch hazel can help dissolve dead skin cells that clog pores and wipe away impurities.
Keep in mind: This unique formula can make skin feel extra clean but may lead to dryness over time.
Good for: Kids who need a gentle cleanser that can help combat breakouts.
Best Overall
Evereden Kids Face Wash
The Evereden Kids Face Wash is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..
FAQs about Face Washes for Kids
1. How do I select a face wash for my child?
If your child’s skin suffers from a specific challenge, whether it’s eczema or acne, select a face wash that specifically targets this condition. If your child has normal skin, finding a face wash your child likes to use is the surest way to guarantee they’ll incorporate this important part of their routine daily.
2. At what age does my child need a face wash?
Children can start washing their faces early on, especially if they’re in daycare or school and exposed to numerous germs. While regular body soap will suffice in the early years, most kids will fare better with a mild soap designated for the face by the time they’re in elementary school.
3. Does my child need to use a specific soap for their face?
While body wash may be used to clean your child’s face, it may be more irritating or drying than a soap designed to be used on the face. Face washes often use milder ingredients that won’t irritate skin or sting if it gets into your child’s eyes.
4. How do I integrate face washing into my child’s routine?
Face washing can be included every time your child brushes their teeth. Set your child up for success by keeping the face wash on the bathroom counter with a washcloth, so your kids have everything they need to wash their faces in the morning and before bed.
5. Why is face washing important for children?
Face washing can help calm sensitive skin by washing away irritants that can inflame the skin. Having your child wash their face, specifically after the school day, can help get rid of germs and prevent illness from spreading.
Conclusion
Incorporating a face wash into your child’s self-care routine is an easy way to help them wash off the germs from the day as well as soothe sensitive skin. These face washes are specifically designed for kids and include calming ingredients in non-toxic formulas. From lightweight foaming washes to slick gel-like soap, you can find the style of face wash that your child will look forward to using. By including face-washing into your child’s routine early on, you’ll avoid getting ready-for-bedtime battles later on.