Expert Pick
PMD Clean
Expert Pick
PMD Clean
Now 15% Off
Pros
- Has 4 customizable modes
The PMD tool has Akram's vote for its high vibration count (up to 7,000 times per minute), and cleansing technology that brightens, reduces the appearance of pore size, and clears blackheads. And because the brush head is made of hygenic silicone, it never has to be replaced.
Customer Review:
"This tool has been a GAME CHANGER for my skin. Nothing has improved it so much until now. My esthetician recommended it and it has made my skin so soft and cleaned it so well, while still being gentle on my sensitive skin. Clogged pores are coming to the surface and my skin is clearing up." —Aryana
The Original Cleansing Brush
clarisonic Mia Smart
The Original Cleansing Brush
clarisonic Mia Smart
Now 38% Off
Pros
- Comes with 2 years of brush head replacements
The cleansing brush that defined an entire category, Clarisonic is still one of the best out there. The smaller Mia is great for travel, and works with all of the brand's interchangeable brush heads, including those for massage, sensitive skin, acne, and more.
Customer Review:
"I have been using it for about 1 month. I really love this product it gives my face a wonderful glow & I don’t have any major breakouts since I’ve been using it!!!" —LB
Best for Sensitive Skin
Foreo LUNA 4 Smart Facial Cleansing and Firming Massage Device
Best for Sensitive Skin
Foreo LUNA 4 Smart Facial Cleansing and Firming Massage Device
Pros
- Pairs with an app for extra tips
There are several different Foreo devices, but this one is specifically designed for sensitive skin, which can't always handle the bristles of harsher cleansing brushes. Plus it's totally customizable to your skin, with 16 different modes.
Customer Review:
"Luna 4 sensitive skin exceeded my expectations and I'm loving the fact that it is gentle enough to be used daily without being afraid of irritation. I only have to keep it away from my sister hehe" —Anna
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Best Drugstore Cleansing Brush
Olay Regenerist Facial Cleansing Brush
Best Drugstore Cleansing Brush
Olay Regenerist Facial Cleansing Brush
Now 20% Off
Pros
- Has 2 speeds to choose from
Olay's massaging facial brush doesn't have quite as many bells and whistles as some of the pricier models on this list, but the thousands of positive reviews speak for themselves.
Customer Review:
"I'm convinced that the Olay Facial Cleansing Brush Regenerist is secretly from the future, sent back in time to gift us with glowing, baby-soft skin. This facial exfoliator has become my trusted sidekick in the battle against dullness, and it's nothing short of brilliant." —J2theN
Best 3-in-1 Facial Brush
The Detox Market Clean Vibrations Facial Brush
Best 3-in-1 Facial Brush
The Detox Market Clean Vibrations Facial Brush
Pros
- Has a suction cup base so it stays put in your shower
You're not seeing things; this silicone brush has a mini brush on the side to reach harder-to-reach areas like the side of the nose. Bonus: It also has a stainless steel back for depuffing.
Customer Review:
"Can’t believe the difference in my skin from using this!! Totally a game changer—smooth and silky now!!" —Rene
Best with LED
Skin Gym Tilka Cleansing Brush with LED
Best with LED
Skin Gym Tilka Cleansing Brush with LED
Pros
- Has 2-in-1 benefits for glowing skin
This handheld silicone brush is easy to use thanks to its size, and it has the added benefit of LED. Why, you ask? LED may help tighten and lift skin, as well as reduce acne (so really, why not?).
Customer Review:
"This is great for deep cleaning and just daily facial washes. I've only had it a few weeks but so far so good!" —Nora
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Best for Lymphatic Drainage
Naturopathica Facial Cleansing Brush
Best for Lymphatic Drainage
Naturopathica Facial Cleansing Brush
Pros
- Can also be used to apply masks
You'll feel like you're in the spa at the hands of a professional facialist with this soft, handheld brush by Naturopathica. The bristles are short and have a nubby texture that massages as you work them into your skin.
Customer Review:
"I was looking into getting a cleansing device and read the reviews for this brush and thought I would try it instead. And honestly I think it works great, was just looking for a good exfoliating cleansing brush and this leaves my skin very soft and has helped clear up clogged pores." —Bethany
Best Multi-Use Cleansing Brush Kit
Braun Beauty Set 9 7-in-1 Cordless Kit
Best Multi-Use Cleansing Brush Kit
Braun Beauty Set 9 7-in-1 Cordless Kit
Pros
- Helps cut down on number of tools in your collection
This kit may be on the pricey side, but it accomplishes the tasks of just about every tool in your beauty arsenal. The cleansing brush can be swapped out for a facial epilator for hair removal, and it also comes with an electric shaver, as well as bonus attachments.
Customer Review:
"This shaver is such a great product and investment. This gives me a nice clean shave and I really love the clean feature as well. Definitely recommend this for others." —robc2
Best Basic Cleansing Brush
Anisa Cleansing Brush
Best Basic Cleansing Brush
Anisa Cleansing Brush
Now 30% Off
Pros
- Has both soft and silicone bristles
This non-electric brush has both silicone and soft fiber bristles, giving pores a full deep cleanse (even without the added battery power). Replace the brush heads every six months for the best performance.
Customer Review:
"Gentle for all areas of my face, but cleans makeup off quickly and easily, leaving nothing but softness." —Sharon H.
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Best Classic Cleansing Brush
Alder New York Cleansing Facial Brush
Best Classic Cleansing Brush
Alder New York Cleansing Facial Brush
Pros
- Vegan bristles
This brush is reminiscent of those you might find in a barber shop, only updated. It has a similar wooden handle, but the bristles are made from over a million nylon bristles (as opposed to animal hair), for a gentle, deep cleanse men and women alike will love.
Customer Review:
"I really love my Cleaning Facial Brush. It leaves my skin super clean. You can definitely feel it! I don't know what I would do with out this anymore." —Hugo
Best Affordable Cleansing Brush
e.l.f. Cosmetics Cleansing Duo Face Brush
Best Affordable Cleansing Brush
e.l.f. Cosmetics Cleansing Duo Face Brush
Pros
- Has a soft bristle side and exfoliating silicone side
Another great affordable option is this dual-sided cleansing brush from e.l.f. It's a good choice if you prefer to have full control since it isn't battery-operated at all, and it features both a bristle brush head and textured head, depending on your preference.
Customer Review:
"I was getting horrible cystic acne on my forehead and the silicone side helped get rid of them in no time. I use it a couple of times a week and my acne has decreased significantly. I use the other side to apply face masks, not to clean. I love this brush." —flaman
Best Affordable Cleansing Brush
Plum Beauty Facial Cleansing System
Best Affordable Cleansing Brush
Plum Beauty Facial Cleansing System
Now 24% Off
Pros
- Has brush heads for sensitive skin and deep cleaning
This brush has two speeds, two brush heads, and is a great size for travel—all for a plum (get it?) price.
Customer Review:
"I am in my mid 70s. This brush is simple to use, just like a professional I went to used. Am very happy with it. Bought more for gifts." —B. Fowler
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Best Cleansing Brush for Travel
Michael Todd Beauty Soniclear Petite Antimicrobial Facial Sonic Skin Cleansing Brush
Best Cleansing Brush for Travel
Michael Todd Beauty Soniclear Petite Antimicrobial Facial Sonic Skin Cleansing Brush
Pros
- Also comes with a massage/serum infusion attachment
This highly rated cleansing brush comes with interchangeable brush heads (including a massaging one), has a built-in timer so you know how long to wash each part of your face, and has a carrying case for easy travel.
Customer Review:
"Perfect to travel, leaves my skin clean and soft. Love that's rechargeable and comes with a case to take it on the go. My skin loves the massage it gives." —Claudia O.
Best Scrubber
Japonesque Facial Cleansing Silicone Scrubber Tool
Best Scrubber
Japonesque Facial Cleansing Silicone Scrubber Tool
Pros
- Gentle and easy to use
For the simplest entry into the world of cleansing brushes, start with a small silicone scrubber. It's inexpensive, sanitary, and easy to control thanks to the holder on the back.
Customer Review:
"The tiny silicone bristles remove dirt/impurities and exfoliate at the same time. It is very gentle on the skin. And easy to clean! Will be purchasing more to use on my sensitive skin clients during facial treatments." —Brina
Best Eco Brush
Province Apothecary Daily Glow Facial Dry Brush
Best Eco Brush
Province Apothecary Daily Glow Facial Dry Brush
Pros
- Increases circulation
This brush is made from responsibly sourced materials (an oak handle and natural goat-hair fibers), and—bonus!—looks nice by your vanity. One thing to note: It's meant for dry brushing to increase circulation, so it shouldn't get wet.
Customer Review:
"This brush is amazing. Soft enough not to make your skin irritated, but just the right amount of exfoliation. Leaves my skin super soft!" —Erika L.
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Frequently Asked Questions
"Facial cleansing brushes are ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, as well as those with noticeable dead skin buildup," says Akram. And although some brushes are better for sensitive and dry skin types, she says using a cleansing brush on these skin types "could be a little abrasive and may cause redness."
Approach with caution if your skin is easily irritated. "When using a facial cleansing brush, you could potentially cause irritation if you have sensitive skin. It could also worsen existing skin conditions," says Akram, who adds, "I recommend consulting with a skincare professional or a dermatologist for those with specific concerns."
Even those with "normal" skin shouldn't use them every day. "I would recommend limiting usage to a few times a week since facial cleansing brushes to avoid dryness and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin," says the expert. "Although the bristles are made to be gentle it can still be abrasive on the skin if used daily."
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Meet the Expert
- Sarah Akram is a celebrity esthetician and sought-after lash and brow specialist based in Alexandra, Virginia.
Why Trust Harper's Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM, she also writes for Glamour, People, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.
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