Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser Review 2026

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser Review 2026: Does It Really Clean Without Drying Your Skin?

Cleanser = tight, squeaky, dry skin?
That’s what I thought too.

I have combination skin. If my morning cleanser is too strong, I’m oily by noon. If it’s too gentle, it doesn’t remove dirt.

Then I tried Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser. The tube says:
“Gentle Liquid Formula that Cleanses without Over-Drying or Stripping Skin for all skin types.”

With Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, and Vitamin E inside.

After 30 days of AM + PM use, does it actually hydrate while it cleans? Or is it just an expensive facewash? Here’s my honest review.

What Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser?

Kiehl’s has been around since 1851. The Ultra Facial line is their most popular hydration line.

Quick Product Details:

• Product Name: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
• Product Type: Gentle Liquid Facial Cleanser
• Size: 5.0 fl oz / 150ml
• Main Claim: Thoroughly cleanses without over-drying. Leaves skin fresh and soft
• Key Ingredients: Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, Vitamin E, Glycerin
• Skin Type: For all skin types

It’s made to remove makeup, dirt, and oil without destroying your skin’s natural moisture.

Key Ingredients: What’s Actually Inside?

This cleanser is different because it cleans without stripping.

1. Squalane

Source: Derived from olives
What it does: Mimics skin’s natural lipids. Keeps skin hydrated even while cleansing. Doesn’t damage the barrier. Leaves skin soft.

2. Apricot Kernel Oil

Source: Packed with Vitamin A and E
What it does: Nourishes skin. Smooths texture. Gives comfort even after washing.

3. Vitamin E

Source: Antioxidant
What it does: Protects skin from free radicals. Keeps skin calm.

4. Glycerin + Sugar-derived Glycolic Foaming Agent

What it does: Glycerin locks in hydration. The glycolic foaming agent removes makeup and dirt but is not harsh.

Free From: Soap, Paraben, Fragrance
Formula: pH-balanced

Texture, Lather & How It Feels

This is the best part about Ultra Facial Cleanser.

Texture: White, creamy liquid gel. Not too thin, not too thick.
Lather: Light, gentle foam. Not big soap bubbles.
Application: 1 pump is enough for the whole face. Doesn’t sting eyes.
After-Wash Feel: 0% tightness. Skin feels fresh, soft, and perfectly prepared. Exactly what’s written on the ad.
Scent: None. Completely fragrance-free. Safe for sensitive skin.

How To Use It The Right Way

You can use this AM + PM.

Step by Step:

1. Wet hands and face
2. Take 1 pump of Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
3. Massage gently for 30 seconds. Focus on T-zone and makeup areas
4. Rinse with lukewarm water
5. Follow with Toner → Serum

Pro Tips:

• For Double Cleansing: Use this as step 2
• For Heavy Makeup: Use 2 pumps
• For Retinol Users: Washing with this before retinol reduces irritation

My 30-Day Results – Combination + Sensitive Skin

My problem: Breakouts with new cleansers + flaky skin in winter.

Week 1 Results:

• Noticed difference on first wash. No tight feeling.
• Removes about 70% of makeup. Need a balm for heavy makeup.

Week 2 Results:

• Skin feels softer. Roughness is down.
• T-zone isn’t over-dried so it’s not producing extra oil.

Week 4 Results:

• Biggest win: Skin barrier feels healthy. No stinging with new products.
• Skin is “prepared for rest of skincare routine” – the claim is 100% true.
• 150ml will last 3-4 months. Perfect for daily use.

Who Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser For? Who Should Skip It?

Buy It If You:

• Get tight skin after cleansing
• Want a gentle, hydrating, non-stripping cleanser
• Have sensitive skin. Most facewashes sting
• Want skin to feel soft and ready for skincare
• Have dry, normal, combination, or sensitive skin
• Need a mild cleanser for daily use

Skip It If You:

• Want a strong, deep-cleansing wash for very oily skin. This is too mild
• Wear heavy makeup or waterproof SPF daily. You’ll need an oil cleanser first
• Want an exfoliating or acne-fighting cleanser. This has no BHA/Salicylic acid
• Are on a budget under $20

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser vs Other Gentle Cleansers

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser:

• Key Ingredients: Squalane, Apricot Oil
• Key Points: Non-stripping, All skin types, 150ml

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser:

• Key Ingredients: Ceramide, Hyaluronic Acid
• Key Points: Cheaper, Less luxurious feel

La Roche Posay Toleriane Cleanser:

• Key Ingredients: Niacinamide
• Key Points: Good for sensitive, Less hydrating

Verdict: For comfort + softness + all skin types, Kiehl’s wins. For oily/acne skin, this is not it.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Does not over-dry or strip skin
• Hydrates skin while cleansing with Squalane + Oil
• Leaves skin fresh and soft
• Fragrance-free and Soap-free. Safe for sensitive skin
• pH-balanced. Protects skin barrier
• Removes light makeup on its own

Cons:

• Price is $22 for 150ml. More than drugstore options
• Cannot remove heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen alone
• Low foam. If you like “squeaky clean” feel, you won’t like this
• Does not treat acne

Where To Buy & Price

Kiehl’s is not in every drugstore.

Where to Buy:

1. Sephora
2. Kiehl’s Official Website
3. Amazon
4. Import beauty stores

Price: Around $22 for 150ml. One tube lasts 3-4 months.

FAQ

Q1: Will this remove makeup?

A: It will remove light makeup. For heavy/waterproof, use an oil cleanser first.

Q2: Is it good for oily skin?

A: Yes. Because it doesn’t over-dry, skin doesn’t produce extra oil.

Q3: How many times should I use it per day?

A: Morning + Night, 2 times. If very dry, use 1 time at night.

Q4: Does this exfoliate?

A: No. This is only for gentle cleansing. Exfoliation has to be done separately.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth $22?

Short answer: Yes, if your skin feels tight after washing.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser isn’t just a facewash. It’s the perfect starting step for your skincare routine.

Yes, it’s expensive. But it doesn’t strip your moisture. It actually prepares your skin.

My Rating: 9.0/10

For sensitive, dry, and combination skin that hates “tight feeling”, this is the best gentle cleanser of 2026.