The 14 Best Facial Cleansing Brushes, Tested & Reviewed by Experts

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There’s a reason most facialists start treatment with a deep cleanse: Washing your face removes grime and prepares your skin for any products you apply after. So if you want to score a spa-level cleanse at home, we recommend finding the best facial cleansing brush on the market. 

With regular use, facial cleansing brushes dissolve dead cells for a more radiant complexion. They also help with makeup prep and cleanup: You’ll notice that any foundation or concealer you apply afterward will go on like butter, and you can be sure you’re removing those products thoroughly with the help of sonic technology or oscillating brush heads. Sonic options are promising for those with acne-prone skin: A 2019 review showed that this gentle technology cleans without disrupting the skin barrier. 

Facial cleansing brushes have increased in popularity over the past five years — you can find hundreds of options on the market. WWD editors and experts tested the top performers to pinpoint the 14 best facial cleansing brushes to incorporate into your routine. Keep scrolling to see our favorites, as well as helpful shopping tips for buying a cleansing brush and how to clean them.

Tatcha Original Facial Cleansing Brush By Kashoen 1883

Best Luxury Facial Cleansing Brush 

What reviewers say: “Since purchasing the cleansing brush kit, I find that the exfoliation is less intense, and I can exfoliate more often now. What’s more, like a tea ceremony, when I use my cleansing brush kit, I enjoy a true self-care ritual.”

Our testing review: “This brush set looks gorgeous on my vanity, and it incentivizes me to wash my face — the bristles feel like air-spun fluff on my skin. I prefer to use the brush with a gentle foamy cleanser for the softest effect.”

If you’re looking to make your daily cleanse feel like a happy ritual rather than a chore, Tatcha’s cleansing brush is the one for you. The brush comes with a stand that allows the bristles to air dry after each use. And the included composite wood bowl keeps your routine sanitary. Swirl your cleanser and a few drops of water in the bowl, then dip the brush inside and sweep the sudsy lather around the contours of your face before rinsing. 

Olay Regenerist Facial Cleansing Brush

Best Facial Cleansing Brush for Beginners 

What reviewers say: “In the past, I’ve just used my hands to wash my face. But after using this brush I feel like my face has finally been actually getting clean. It’s not rough on your skin and lathers up very well.”

Our testing review: “Olay’s facial cleansing tool is similar to others on the market (it employs an oscillating round brush) however, it’s the simplest to navigate. Just click the button to choose your setting, apply cleanser, and you’re good to go.” 

With over 20,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this facial cleansing brush is a bona fide best-seller. It’s a good starter device for those interested in elevating their cleansing game but not fully ready to invest in a device. It works with all types of face washes, and the two-speed settings allow you to customize your wash based on your comfort level. 

Vanity Planet Raedia Facial Cleansing Brush 

Best Cleansing Brush for Face and Body 

What reviewers say: “I use this every morning and every night, anywhere from three to 15 minutes and it has made a huge difference in my skin. I used to wash my face with just my fingertips, but this is truly working in your pores and getting everything out. My favorite brush head is the silicone option. It’s really easy for me to use with products and cleanse.”

Our testing review: “The body brush attachment has been a game changer for my skin — it preps my limbs for self-tanner and helps body oils and lotions seep into my skin instead of sitting on top. I also give it bonus points because it’s sleek and easy to store.”

Vanity Planet’s cleansing brush set includes a whopping four brush heads to supplement your skin care routine in various ways. Choose between the silicone or bristle brush attachments for your daily wash, and opt for the exfoliating head to revive dull skin weekly. This set also includes a body brush to smooth your limbs and a ventilated case to keep your device clean and organized.

Skin Gym Cleania 3-in-1 Cleansing Brush Set 

Best Exfoliating Facial Cleansing Brush 

What reviewers say: “Within three days of using this, I saw a significant difference in my skin and my acne cleared up almost immediately. It feels fresh and relaxing, and I leave feeling refreshed with a deep clean. And the different brushes help with sensitivity.”

Our testing review: “I’m partial to the bamboo brush head; it helps cleanse my combination skin without irritating it. The device has a stand for easy charging and quick access to the tool during wash time.”

The beauty of this cleansing brush is the size of the brush head: The attachments are a bit smaller than other models. The petite brush heads edge into the tighter contours of your face (by your ears, nose, and lips) and give you more control over the treatment area. You can also tailor your treatment to your skin type with the included silicone, bamboo, and fiber brush heads. 

Therabody TheraFace Pro 

Best Multi-Purpose Cleansing Brush 

What reviewers say: “It’s simple and easy to change modes with the small LED screen that updates to whatever attachment you are using, and each of the attachments simply snaps on and off with magnets. The cleansing head has been providing a good deep clean and exfoliation to remove oil and dead skin build-up.” 

Our testing review: “It’s truly a do-it-all tool that has improved upon the existing LED light and microcurrent science and designs to make this new innovation stand out above the rest. If you’re a fan of facial tools — or immediate gratification and results — it’s worth splurging for this multi-functional facial device.”

Theragun’s TheraFace Pro is a true investment piece. Not only do you get amazing deep cleansing benefits from the silicone wash attachment, but also you’ll have access to attachments that help lift, soothe, and brighten your complexion over time. You can choose from three intensity settings with the cleansing brush attachment; each one feels comfortable on the skin. For more info on this do-it-all tool, read our full Theraface Pro review. 

ReFa Clear Cleansing Brush

Best Cleansing Brush for Acne 

What reviewers say: “I love how soft the bristles are which allow me to use this brush no matter what skin issues I’m battling, like even after micro needling. It is soft enough to use yet I can still tell my skin has gotten a really good cleansing. I love its sleek look and the handle is just right. The contours of it allow for an easy grip.”

Our testing review: “This brush is one of the gentlest options I tried; I didn’t feel an ounce of friction while using it. I’ll reach for this one whenever I’m dealing with an inflamed breakout to help deep clean without making bumps angry.” 

It may seem counterintuitive, but washing your face too much or using a harsh cleanser can cause an uptick in acne or breakouts for some skin types. Gentle cleansing brushes are the safest choice — too much scrubbing can irritate existing pimples. This brush is the stuff of dreams for those dealing with breakouts (or those with sensitive skin). The long bristles go soft on the skin while amping up the caliber of your cleanse, so you don’t have to resort to scrubbing.  

Kat Burki Skin Canvas Caribbean Silk Sea Sponge 

Best Facial Cleansing Sponge 

Our testing review: “This tool is my first foray in facial cleansing sponges, and I’m hooked. The texture is surprisingly soft, it’s easy to travel with, and it’s unfussy to use.” 

This tiny facial cleansing tool packs a punch. Run it under warm water, and watch it expand and soften into a soft pillowy texture. The sponge sops up your cleanser and seamlessly redistributes the face wash around your complexion, lightly exfoliating your skin at the same time. It’s malleable so that you can squeeze one end to target hard-to-reach areas like the folds around your nose. 

Nion Beauty Opus Luxe 

Best Massaging Facial Cleansing Brush 

What reviewers say: “I’m so happy I have this as part of my morning and night routines. The silicone bristles are very pliable, and I like the three different vibration settings. I’ve seen a noticeable difference after just two weeks of use. The Opus Luxe leaves my skin feeling cleaner, smoother, and more radiant.”

Our testing review: “After using the cleansing side of the brush, I flip it around to give myself a quick facial massage in the morning, and it works wonders for eliminating puffiness. I apply face oil on my skin, then massage it upwards and outwards from the center of my face to wake up my skin.”

Like other options on this list, Nion Beauty’s facial cleansing brush features a silicone brush head that’s easy to clean and holds up well with use. However, this tool also employs ionic technology to boost your cleanse: The negatively charged ions help pull grime out of your pores. The flip side of the brush has a soft surface you can use to massage away tension. 

Shiseido Cleansing Massage Brush

Best Gentle Facial Cleansing Brush 

What reviewers say: “I have had one of these most of my life. Only had to be replaced once within the past 20 years. Love this product and can’t wash my face without it. Perfect blend of soft bristles and firm massager in one tool.”

Our testing review: “This tool’s combination of soft bristles and silicone nubs works to eradicate any leftover makeup, sweat, or sunscreen. Its small, simple design is easy to stash in my gym bag or take on a weekend trip.” 

Shiseido creates amazing makeup brushes (and so much more), so it’s no surprise that the brand’s face brush is a top performer. Many shoppers have stayed loyal to the tool for decades, proving it’s a well-designed staple. It’s manual, so you can control the pressure level — go with a light touch to avoid irritation. 

True Glow by Conair Sonic Facial Brush 

Best Budget Facial Cleansing Brush 

What reviewers say: “I have combination skin and I loved the way this cleaned my skin. It felt so smooth and clean after using this. It works well with my cleanser and I don’t have to use a lot to clean my face.”

Our testing review: “This lightweight device doesn’t vibrate as intensely as other options, which is a nice combination with the firm bristles. I stick with the lowest speed setting and find my skin feels refreshed (but not too squeaky clean) after use.”  

You’ll get good exfoliation with Conair’s facial cleansing brush. The bristles are firmer than other options on this list, so it’s a tool you only need to use once or twice weekly. The device includes two replacement heads, making it an affordable choice that sets you up for months of use. Sonic technology aids the bristles in efficiently cleansing your complexion.  

Sephora Collection Facial Cleansing Tool 

Best Manual Silicone Face Cleansing Brush 

What reviewers say: “This works so well that I ended up buying additional ones for my family. A little cleanser goes a long way on this and it provides just enough exfoliation to really get in and clean out junk and makeup. Absolutely worth the $8.”

Our testing review: “The teardrop shape of this tool is key. You can edge the pointy corner into creases and smaller areas of the face, and the wide end covers larger facial planes in a few sweeps.” 

Although this tool is the smallest on our list, it doesn’t underperform. The pad is well-designed, with two sizes of silicone bristles for different areas of the face. It’s also flexible, so you can bend it around your fingers to easily work the tool around your complexion. The uncomplicated design lets you clean it quickly after each use.  

Meet the Experts

Dr. Stacy Chimento is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, where she studied at Loyola University and subsequently received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Miami. She graduated at the top of her class at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she was inducted as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Society. She completed an internship in Internal Medicine at Resurrection Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She then came back to Miami to complete her dermatology residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital/University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she served as Chief Resident. She is highly trained in general medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology with an interest and expertise in acne, rosacea, body contouring, laser rejuvenation and injectable aesthetic treatments.  

Dr. Marisa Garshick is a leading board-certified dermatologist serving patients throughout Manhattan, New York at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, as well as an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell – New York Presbyterian Medical Center. Dr. Garshick provides a wide variety of cosmetic and medical procedures and services including treatments for acne, eczema, hyperhidrosis, moles, psoriasis, rosacea, signs of aging, skin cancer, skin tags, vitiligo, and wrinkles.

Dr. Debra Jaliman is a board-certified dermatologist with a private practice on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. Dr. Jaliman has been an Assistant Clinical Professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City for over 25 years. She has been published in numerous scientific journals. Dr. Jaliman is the author of “Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist,” published by St. Martin’s Press. Dr. Jaliman has been a pioneer in Dermatology.  Beginning in 1991, she was one of the first five physicians in North America to use Botox in her practice. 

Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology.  She is also a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. Dr. King graduated magna cum laude from Harvard College with a degree in biochemistry.  She received her MD from Columbia University.  She trained in medicine at Greenwich Hospital, affiliated with the Yale University School of Medicine, and completed her dermatology residency at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. After residency, Dr. King worked as an attending physician at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, during which time she specialized in cutaneous oncology and photodynamic therapy.  She also has a background in immunology and her research has been published in a variety of medical journals, including the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Meet the Author

Claire Sullivan is a freelance beauty writer based in New York City. She spent six years writing and editing on staff for Martha Stewart Living and Martha Stewart Weddings, most recently covering the beauty beat for both brands. Her background in food writing translates to a no-nonsense approach to skin care, hair care, and makeup: In her eyes, it’s all about technique and ingredients. Claire loves to turn expert advice into easy steps that inspire you to give your beauty routine a makeover — and she firmly believes your routine requires a facial cleansing brush.