Facial cleansing brushes can provide deep cleansing and exfoliation to reveal bright and glowing skin. Cleansing is an essential step in any skincare routine. Thanks to technology, we now have access to the best sonic facial cleansing brushes that are suitable for different skin types, even for acne-prone skin!
To help make your search for the right facial cleansing brush easier, we've rounded up our top 10 recommendations that would fit any skincare need and budget. We've also prepared a guide to show you how to choose among the different types like silicone and nylon brushes, as well as some tips and insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas.
Quick List - Top Facial Cleansing Brushes
Michael Todd Beauty
A Sonic Cleansing System With Antimicrobial Protection for All Skin Types
Panasonic
Versatile Cleansing System for Luxurious Pampering
Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas is a board-certified dermatologist from the Philippines. She enjoys teaching and gives lectures here and abroad. She is also very active in social media educating the public and correcting misinformation online. Her other special interests include aesthetic and procedural dermatology such as cosmeceuticals, injectables, lasers, and energy-based devices.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
In a nutshell, facial cleansing brushes offer more than just cleansing. Their bristles or silicone nubs exfoliate the skin and help remove any remaining traces of makeup, dirt, and grime. Whether manual or sonic, cleansing brushes penetrate the skin's deeper layers and effectively remove dead skin cells faster than routine daily manual cleansing.
The rotating or vibrating features of cleansing brushes also enable skincare products to absorb better into your skin. They also have a massaging effect, leading to improved circulation and a healthier, firmer, and glowing complexion.
Before I got a cleansing brush for myself, I was a skeptic. After all, what better tool to wash your face than your hands, right? However, when I finally got one, I was an instant convert. Not only did it clean my skin well, but it also exfoliated it, leaving my skin soft and smooth afterward. In addition, it made my facial cleansing experience more relaxing.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Finding the right brush starts with knowing your skin type. Since each skin type reacts differently to various materials, it's important to understand your unique skin conditions so you can find the products that work best for you.
Silicone cleansing brushes are gentler on the skin. Instead of bristles, silicone brushes have tiny silicone spikes that don't easily irritate the skin. Silicone brushes are also less likely to retain bacteria. This type is recommended for people with dry or sensitive skin because of its gentle action.
People with these skin types should also be mindful to limit their cleansing treatments to once or twice a week and to stick to a low-speed setting. Overuse of your facial cleansing brush may lead to over-drying, so don’t forget to slather on moisturizer afterward.
I prefer silicone brushes over bristle brushes because:
I do not recommend using stiff bristle brushes on someone with sensitive skin for the risk of causing redness, irritation, and over-exfoliation. Soft bristles and silicone brushes are better. Those with sensitive skin can try using cleansing brushes once a week with a gentle cleanser and see how their skin reacts. I would not recommend using cleansing brushes more than twice a week.
Bristle brushes, on the other hand, fit those who need deeper exfoliation and cleansing. This type is recommended for people with oily or combination skin as well, since the firmer bristles are more effective in removing dead skin cells, including any oil and dirt trapped in your pores.
Compared to a silicone brush, however, bristle brushes can easily have a build-up of bacteria if not washed regularly and thoroughly. After every use, remember to use unscented soap or a makeup brush cleanser to clean the bristles, then rinse with warm water.
Those with oily skin can get away with using cleansing brushes more often. I also find that when used correctly, they help in minimizing comedone formation and regulate sebum production. Also, more than choosing one with a rotating function, it is also helpful to use it with the right cleanser, one that thoroughly but gently cleans the skin.
Individuals with normal skin can use most, if not all, types of cleansing brushes. In this way, one with several settings or different types of brushes is ok to use. They can also use many different types of cleansers and are usually ok with using cleansing brushes three to four times a week without experiencing redness or irritation.
Basic cleansing brushes are certainly more affordable, but those that come with multiple settings are also worth their more expensive price tag. These multiple settings allow you to tailor the speed and function of your brush according to your skin type and needs. Some brands also have settings for different levels of pulsation intensity for even more value.
Choosing the right cleansing brush may be a little difficult because there are many good options. Apart from the kind of material the brush is made of, ask yourself what other features you would like in it. These were mine: is it handy or portable? Is it manual or electric? How long is the battery life? Do I like the design? Are there multiple settings? And what is the price?
Battery-powered facial cleansing brushes are great for quick cleansing or if you want one to take with you on the go since you can just grab it, and you're all set! However, if you want one that you can use for a longer time and will take the hassle out of buying fresh new batteries every time, a rechargeable cleansing brush is the better pick.
Newer rechargeable cleansing brush models are also more convenient as they have a USB charging mechanism. Additionally, compared to battery-powered facial cleansing brushes, the waterproof properties of rechargeable ones are stronger and more reliable.
If you intend to incorporate your facial cleansing routine while you're in the shower, look for products with a water-resistant or waterproof body. That way, you don't have to worry if the device will malfunction when it comes in contact with water. To check if a device is waterproof, you can take a look at its IP rating.
An IP rating is a measure of a product's resistance to foreign bodies and moisture and is comprised of two digits. The first digit indicates its resistance to foreign bodies, while the second digit is for moisture resistance. A higher number would indicate greater resistance to these elements.
In the case of facial cleansing brushes, only the second digit is relevant. For a facial cleansing brush to be considered waterproof, it needs to have an IP rating of at least IPX5, which means that it can resist a sustained low-pressure jet spray.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | FOREO LUNA 3 Plus | ![]() | An Award-Winning Brush That Is App-Controlled for a More Customized Experience | |
2 | Michael Todd Beauty Soniclear Elite® | ![]() | A Sonic Cleansing System With Antimicrobial Protection for All Skin Types | |
3 | Anlan Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush | ![]() | A Facial Brush With 3 Types of Bristles for Thorough Cleansing | |
4 | Panasonic EH-SC65 Micro-Foaming Cleansing and Massage | ![]() | Versatile Cleansing System for Luxurious Pampering | |
5 | FOREO LUNA go | ![]() | A Compact and Waterproof Device for Traveling | |
6 | Cala Sonic Facial Cleanser | ![]() | A Soft-Bristled Brush That's Suitable for Sensitive Skin | |
7 | Xiaomi Mijia Inface Facial Cleansing Brush | ![]() | An Affordable and Lightweight Device With 3 Cleansing Massage Modes | |
8 | Miniso Deep Cleansing Ultrasonic Face Cleanser | ![]() | Effective Deep Cleansing at a Budget-Friendly Price | |
9 | JML Sonic Facial Cleanser | ![]() | Uses Sonic Pulses to Lift Dirt and Dead Skin Cells for Effective Exfoliation | |
10 | W Elite 5 In 1 Facial Kit | ![]() | A Facial Care System With Massaging, Cleansing, and Polishing Functions |
The latest addition to cult-favorite brand FOREO's line of cleansing devices, the LUNA 3 Plus is composed of a gentle, non-abrasive silicone material that is 100% waterproof. Its T-Sonic pulsations effectively eliminate dirt and dead skin cells to reveal smoother and clearer skin.
The LUNA 3 Plus boasts of impressive battery life, allowing up to 125 treatments per charge. It can be synced to the exclusive FOREO For You app, which offers various cleansing, heat, and microcurrent speeds for a facial massage tailored to your own needs and preferences.
The thermal touchpoints gently heat up to melt away excess oil and makeup and unclog pores effectively while keeping your skin's moisture level balanced. The LUNA 3 Plus is undeniably on the pricey side, but its state-of-the-art features and track record of delivering excellent skincare results make it well worth the purchase.
This bestseller from Michael Todd Beauty is the world's first patented antimicrobial cleansing device. The antimicrobial brush protects against 99% of odor- and stain-causing bacteria, so you can apply your skincare routine with confidence and ease.
Recommended by dermatologists, this handheld cleansing brush is ideal for all skin types and gently cleanses and boosts circulation to improve skin texture, elasticity, and overall health. With 6 speed settings, two brush heads, and two operating modes, this deluxe cleansing brush delivers excellent results and a truly indulgent cleansing experience.
If you're just about to take the plunge into the world of cleansing systems, this version from Anlan is a good place to start. Not only is it affordable, but it also delivers excellent cleansing and exfoliation with 3 types of bristles for effective deep cleansing. The bristles are grouped according to area: one for precise cleaning, another for general cleaning, and the last one for deep cleaning.
Made of food grade silicone and a waterproof design, this device is one that you can take into your shower with no issues. The compact and lightweight design also makes it a handy choice for traveling. The battery is quite a performer, too, as you can use the device a whopping 400 times after every charge.
Achieve a clearer and more youthful complexion with this multifunctional beauty tool! With cleansing, exfoliating, makeup removal, and massaging features, this Panasonic cleansing brush takes care of all your beauty needs in one compact device.
The brush's soft rotating bristles and patented micro-foam technology gently scrub off dirt and excess oil, while the inbuilt makeup removal plate helps remove any lingering makeup along the surface of your skin.
It also comes with an attached roller head to soften your facial muscles, stimulate circulation, and increase blood flow for a truly relaxing and luxurious pamper session at home. This is a great feature for those days when you can't get to the spa for a facial!
If you have oily skin, then this cleansing system from FOREO is the answer to that. This rechargeable cleansing brush uses T-Sonic technology to eliminate 99.5% of oil, grime, and makeup residue, leaving your skin clear and flawlessly primed for your holy grail skincare products.
This versatile brush from Cala features 3 types of brushes to give you the most satisfying skincare routine you want. For cleansing and massaging, you get a silicone brush and a nylon brush that are both so soft and gentle and suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. There's also an exfoliating sponge to help you get rid of nasty blackheads and clean out your pores.
With these three antimicrobial brush heads and two speed settings, you can fully customize the type of cleansing and massage you need. And if you're always on the go, this cleansing system can be stored in a compact case that you can easily slip into your carry-on bag or luggage.
Don't let its small and compact size fool you. This upgraded cleansing brush from Xiaomi packs a punch with its three-dimensional ergonomic design meant to deeply clean, cleanse, and soothe your skin. The upgrade includes 5 adjustable modes, a brush head with a 15°slope, and a new smart reminder function - the device will stop every 3 seconds to remind you to change parts.
Made with food-grade silicone material, this cleansing brush gently removes oil and dirt without compromising safety and comfort. Its soft bristles are waterproof and non-abrasive, so you don't have to worry about stressing your skin. It also includes three different areas for precise, general, and deep cleaning.
This ultrasonic face cleanser from Miniso is perfect for budget-conscious skincare buffs. Despite its relatively low price, it performs admirably by releasing thousands of sonic waves per minute to deeply unclog pores and removes any oil and makeup residue. It also preps your skin and helps it fully absorb the nourishing ingredients from your skincare products.
Battery-operated and with three easy-to-clean brush heads, this is an ideal choice for cleansing brush newbies who want an upgrade from their normal cleansing routine without breaking the bank. Users love its gentle massage that gives them a healthy glow afterward.
Take your daily cleansing routine to a whole new level with this sonic facial cleanser from JML. Its vibrating sonic pulses gently exfoliate and lift off dead skin cells and dirt residue to reveal clearer, brighter skin.
The sonic pulses help relax your facial and neck muscles to release tension and pressure after a long, busy day. Made with soft, non-slip silicone material, this water-resistant device provides all the benefits of sonic skincare without the hefty price tag.
Achieve your best skin yet with this 5-in-1facial kit! This multipurpose device contains a facial massager and four different kinds of brushes that you can easily attach depending on your skincare needs.
The softer brush head can be used for general cleansing and exfoliation, the roller pad for a gentle massage, and the crude polish accessory for smoothening out any rough skin surfaces. The latex sponge, on the other hand, can be combined with your preferred beauty cream to target the more sensitive areas of your face, such as your cheeks and eyes.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas.
In general, I recommend using facial cleansing brushes two to three times a week. I do encounter a few patients, those with oily and acne-prone skin, who use them more often, up to five times a week, but get good results. Bottom line, it still depends on the patient's skin type, preferences, and reaction to the tool.
In my experience, facial cleansing brushes may aid in removing blackheads that are on the surface of the skin, especially after doing multiple passes. Be careful not to press the tool too hard on your skin or do more passes than necessary. In my opinion, using ingredients such as salicylic acid and retinoids and having extractions are still better in removing blackheads than facial cleansing brushes.
Yes, they do, and this is, in fact, one of the reasons why I like using cleansing brushes as they help exfoliate the skin evenly and sufficiently when done correctly. In addition, it is more efficient in removing oil, dirt, and debris and leaves your skin soft and smooth after.
A cleansing brush is not a must-have for me. Rather it is a tool that is nice to have, which I think can be a good addition to anyone who wants to enhance his or her skincare routine and facial cleansing experience. Just make sure to look for something that suits your needs and preferences, lifestyle, and budget.
As with anything, moderation is key, and knowing how to properly use your cleansing brush, how often to use it, depending on your skin type and needs, and what type of cleansers to use it with are very important. Otherwise, you may not see any benefits and might even cause more harm to your skin than good.
Good skin can boost confidence at any age. Here are some other skincare products that you can use along with your facial cleansing brush, so you can always put your best face forward.
Author: Marion Angeli Flores
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: FOREO|LUNA 3 Plus
No. 2: Michael Todd Beauty|Soniclear Elite®
No. 3: Anlan|Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush
No. 4: Panasonic|EH-SC65 Micro-Foaming Cleansing and Massage
No. 5: FOREO|LUNA go
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others