Biotherm Self Foaming Cleanser $40
THE TEST "I used it after wearing a full face of make-up to a work function and my skin felt fresh and clean afterwards - exactly what you want. It smells lovely, has less soap than my usual cleanser and it looks like it's a product for women rather than girls. I also loved the pump-action bottle, it meant I didn't waste a drop!" Tara, 33.
WHY IT WORKS This soap-free formula uses a coconut derived cleanser, coco-betaine, along with Witch Hazel to refresh the skin.

Decléor Foaming Cleanser $55
THE TEST "I had sunscreen, liquid foundation and powder mixed with a day's worth of dirt on my face before cleansing. After, I did the "white towel test", and it passed with flying colours! This is a brilliant cleanser, my skin felt really smooth and supple, and the essential oils added another dimension to my shower. I also like that it comes in a generous size tube," Chloe, 29.
WHY IT WORKS Oat milk softens, papaya brightens and a blend of lavender and petitgrain essential oil treat your skin and your senses.

SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser $80
THE TEST "I used the cleanser after cycling home in the rain from work and the gym. After only one application my skin felt clean not stripped, with plenty of moisture left in my pores. This is one of the best cleansers I've used. I didn't need much, the foam was easy to spread and felt luxurious on my skin, and the subtle smell was pretty, not overpowering. I'd definitely recommend it!" Angela, 27
WHY IT WORKS SK-II's magic anti-ageing ingredient, Pitera is a sake-derived yeast extract packed with nutrients.

Clinique Rinse-off Foaming Cleanser $38
THE TEST "I spent the day outdoors playing lawn bowls, so had SPF 30 on my face and a fair amount of sweat. After one wash my skin felt clean but not, to my surprise, tight. I really liked it - the product isn't super-foamy (which, to me, means they didn't go OTT with the chemicals) and has a really mild fragrance. It washed off easily, too. A winner!" Grace, 24
WHY IT WORKS As well as a mild cleanser, this product actively moisturisers and contains chamomile to smooth skin. It's also fragrance free and allergy tested.

Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser $38
THE TEST "As usual, my end-of-day face was a mix of sunscreen, grime and running mascara. I always have to cleanse twice, and it took two goes with this cleanser to remove everything as well. The formula is light and fluffy, and my skin felt fresh and soft. It was really quick to use and easy to wipe off - not as much faff as with cream cleansers!" Emma, 32
WHY IT WORKS Jojoba and hazelnut nourish, while shea butter and coconut fight free radicals and soften the skin.

Ask The Pro
The right cleanser depends on your skin type. We hit the cosmetic counter with Dr Belinda Welsh, dermatologist at St Vincent's Health in Melbourne.
Normal skin: foaming, oil or cream cleansers all suit this skin type, but for excellent results, look for one with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).
Sensitive skin: gentle cream or oil cleansers will help calm your complexion.
Oily and acne skin: to help banish blemishes, use a foam or liquid cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Mature or pigmented skin: rich cream or oil cleansers with glycolic acid or salicylic acid will brighten skin.

Stockists:
Biotherm 1300 668 450
Clarins (02) 9663 4277
Clinique 1800 061 326
Decleor 1800 808 993
SK-II 1800 012 169