6 best brightening cleansers

Brightening cleansers are a category of skincare products designed to cleanse the face while also addressing issues related to skin tone and pigmentation. They are typically used as part of a daily skincare routine to help achieve a brighter and more even complexion. Here's what you should know about brightening cleansers:

  1. Purpose:

    • Brightening cleansers aim to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone, and dullness. They work by gently exfoliating the skin's surface and promoting a more radiant complexion.
  2. Key Ingredients:

    • Many brightening cleansers contain specific active ingredients that target pigmentation and uneven skin tone. Some common ingredients include:
      • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid help exfoliate the skin's surface, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover.
      • Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): BHAs like salicylic acid can penetrate deeper into the pores, helping to reduce acne and improve skin texture.
      • Vitamin C: Vitamin C is known for its brightening properties and can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
      • Licorice Root Extract: This natural ingredient can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
      • Niacinamide: Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, can improve the skin's barrier function and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
      • Kojic Acid: Kojic acid is often used to lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
  3. Gentle Exfoliation:

    • Brightening cleansers provide a mild form of exfoliation to help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. They are generally gentle enough for daily use, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
  4. Skin Type Considerations:

    • It's important to choose a brightening cleanser that suits your skin type. Some products are formulated for dry skin, while others are better for oily or combination skin. Always read the product label and choose accordingly.
  5. Usage:

    • To use a brightening cleanser, wet your face, apply the cleanser, and gently massage it onto your skin using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with water. Follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen, especially during the daytime.
  6. Consistency:

    • Consistency is key when using brightening cleansers. Visible results may take several weeks of consistent use. It's also important to be patient and not expect instant results.
  7. Sun Protection:

    • While using brightening products, including brightening cleansers, it's crucial to protect your skin from UV damage. Sunscreen with adequate SPF should be a part of your daily skincare routine to prevent further pigmentation and maintain the brightening effects.
  8. Patch Test:

    • Before using a new brightening cleanser, it's advisable to perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions or allergies.

Brightening cleansers can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine, helping you achieve a more radiant complexion while effectively cleansing your face.However, it's essential to choose the right product for your skin type and concerns and to use it consistently for the best results.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best brightening cleansers on the market
  

Le Mieux Brightening Cleanser - Face Wash with Vitamin C, Mandelic Acid & Antioxidant Glutathione for Soft Glowing Skin, No Parabens or Sulfates (6 oz / 180 ml)

Le Mieux

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Brightening facial wash gently removes surface impurities, leaving skin fresh, soft, and glowing. Ideal for brightening and balancing skin with uneven pigmentation. Features skin-perfecting mandelic acid, the master antioxidant glutathione, and licorice root, bearberry, and papaya extracts to boost clarity and radiance, while aromas of bergamot and neroli refresh the senses.*

  • Brightening facial wash gently removes surface impurities, leaving skin fresh, soft, and glowing.*
  • Features skin-perfecting mandelic acid, the master antioxidant glutathione, and vitamin C. Aromas of bergamot and neroli refresh the senses.*
  • Enhanced with extracts of licorice root, bearberry, and papaya in a base of orange and apple fruit water.
  • Lather a small amount in moistened hands and massage onto face and neck. Rinse with warm water. Pat dry. Use in the morning and at night.
  • No binders, thickeners, fillers, sulfates, or parabens. Cruelty Free, never tested on animals.

Himalaya Clean Complexion Brightening Face Wash for Clear & Glowing Skin and More Even Skin Tone 5.07 oz

Himalaya USA

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Himalaya Clean Complexion Brightening Face Wash is a soap-free daily use face wash that cleanses your skin from impurities for a radiant skin tone. Saffron (Kesar) is well-known for its complexion enhancing properties for a brighter, more luminous complexion. Licorice and White Dammar, brighten your skin and bring out a radiant glow. Pomegranate nourishes, while Cucumber soothes your skin. Use morning and evening for visibly brighter and radiant skin.

  • WITH LICORICE & WHITE DAMMER: To cool and awaken tired, dull skin and enhance your complexion by minimizing the appearance of dark spots, for a healthy-looking glow
  • IDEAL FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: A soap-free, daily-use face wash that cleanses your skin from impurities for a clear, glowing, and radiant skin tone
  • DERMATOLOGICALLY TESTED: Enjoy the sensory pleasure of a rich, daily gentle face wash that is mild, comfortable and non-drying on your skin
  • FREE FROM COMMON CONCERNS: Includes ingredients for quality and stability, but remains free from other ingredients such as phthalates, SLS, SLES and parabens
  • CRUELTY FREE: We care about our furry friends. That’s why we never test our personal care products on animals

User questions & answers

Question: Does this use natural ingredients? Is it organic
Answer: I wouldn't recommend it, they are so concentrated you might actually 'burn' your throat and lungs.
Question: ml neem face wash....what is exp. date
Answer: Yes, but make sure that you dilute lemon myrtle essential oil with a carrier oil before topical use and be sure to test it on a small area of skin first. Because of its citric nature, lemon myrtle essential oil might be photosensitive, and it is recommended that you avoid exposure to direct sunlight for at least 48 hours after applying it to your skin.
Question: Ingredients: ingredients neem, turmeric, fuller's earth, sodium methyl paraben ip, sodium prophyl paraben ip, imidazolidinyl urea, dmdm hydantoin
Answer: We dipped some on the cap of the bottle and with a Q-tip applied it directly on the bump, 1 by 1. We would do it twice per day. The more you use the quicker the bumps dry out.
Question: Why do you still have parabens in your products? Please change your formula so, I am able to buy
Answer: Many of these oils are Cold Pressed while others are Steam distilled

Mineral Fusion Creamy Brightening Cleanser, 7 oz

Mineral Fusion

Based on 468 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mineral Fusion Creamy brightening face cleanser, naturally brightening antioxidants Vitamin C, green tea, and orange oil. Leaves skin perfectly prepped for makeup by creating a smooth even texture. Infused with Aloe and rosemary leaf oil. Works with all skin types. 100% vegan, Gluten Free, hypoallergenic. Nourishing shea butter and nutrient replenishing mineral water soften and quench skin. Apply a small amount to face and gently massage with warm water For 1 to 3 minutes. Rinse with warm water.Gentle enough to use every day. No artificial colors, Parabens or phthalates.

  • FACIAL CLEANSER: Mineral Fusion's Creamy Brightening Cleanser gently cleanses & exfoliates your skin using finely ground Volcanic Stone for a smoother-than-smooth feel. This exfoliating cleanser can be used daily.
  • NATURAL FACTORS: Natural antioxidants like Vitamin C, Green Tea & Orange Oil boost your natural radiance while nourishing Shea Butter zaps dryness. Mineral Water lends a healthy dose of nutrients—a glow-y skin must.
  • SMARTER MAKEUP: Improve your complexion & nourish your skin with our line of lip tints, eyeshadows, brushes, foundations, nail polishes, mascaras, primers, eyeliners, moisturizers, face creams & cleansers.
  • NATURAL COSMETICS: We select effective natural ingredients & ensure our products are free of gluten, parabens, talc, artificial colors, synthetic fragrances, SLS & phthalates. We NEVER conduct animal testing.
  • HEALTHY BEAUTY: Mineral Fusion offers a wide range of nail polish, hair care, body care & skin care—each formulated to deliver the uniquely beneficial power of minerals. Products made in the USA.
  • Naturally brightening antioxidants- vitamin c, green tea, and orange oil- help restore even tone and boost skin's natural radiance; Leaves skin perfectly prepped for makeup by creating a smooth even texture
  • Works with all skin types
  • 100% Vegan; Gluten Free; Hypo-Allergenic; Paraben Free; Cruelty Free; Phalate Free; Artificial Color Free

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use it in the morning or just at night
Answer: This is gluten-free. The only ingredient is 100% pure organic oregano oil. So it is full 100% strength oregano essential oil. (Most brands are only 15% to 25% oregano oil.) It can be used topically, as a dietary supplement, as a food ingredient, for aromatherapy, etc. Since it is not diluted at all, the drops need to be put in a capsule or mixed with carrier oil, food or drink before personal use. For dietary supplement use, this same organic oregano oil is also available in easy-to-use capsules here: https://www.amazon.com/Island-Oregano-Oil-Capsules-Organic/dp/B083XNGLDZ/
Question: is this price for one thing
Answer: Hi JamieThank you for contacting us. We do not recommend using essential oils on or around your pets. There is not enough research out there to show this is safe to do. I apologize I could not be of further assistance. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Have a great day.
Question: What are the ingredients in this product
Answer: Hi M. AubinThank you for contacting us. I show that the Sampler Gift Set #4 in Wooden Box. Includes, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Cinnamon Cassia, Peppermint, Rosemary and Lemon. 10 mL (1/3 Ounce) each. There is no Vanilla in this set. I hope this helps!!
Question: Can I wash my eye make up with this gel
Answer: Many are but not all. This sent is not organic. We work very hard with our suppliers to provide oils that come from organically grown plants. That being said, we only carry a small line of certified organic oils. These oils are clearly labeled and our line of certified organic oils and synergies is continually growing. If you are looking for a guarantee that the oil was grown organically and follows the organic standards, we recommend you purchase our certified organic oils. Since many small farmers cannot afford to certify their organically grown plants, the only way to guarantee the oil is organic, is to purchase a certified organic oil.

Product features

Creamy Brightening Cleanser

Apply a small amount to face and gently massage with warm water for 1-3 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Gentle enough to use every day. Follow with Skin-Soothing Face Toner.

Illuminating Primer

Illuminating:

Radiant gold flecks create exquisite, subtle illumination and the perfect hint of shimmer.

Makeup Prep:

This luxurious formula fills in lines, brightens, illuminates, and evens tone and texture creating a smooth canvas for makeup application.

Age-Defying:

Natural antioxidants and our wrinkle-fightening, collagen-boosting peptide help firm skin and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

Brightening:

Vitamin C and Orange Fruit Oil naturally promote radiant, brighter, and more even tone.

SPF 16 Brightening Eye Cream

Brightening & Hydrating:

Vitamin C naturally restores even tone while light-reflecting Mica subtly illuminates leaving eye area looking more refreshed. Rosehip Oil and Avocado Butter deeply hydrate and plump, minimizing the appearance of fine lines and improving elasticity.

Protecting and Age-Defying:

Broad spectrum mineral SPF defends against sun damage while natural antioxidants and our wrinkle-fighting, clinically tested, collagen-boosting peptide help firm and restore skin for a more youthful appearance.

Makeup Ready:

This hydrating mineral SPF formula brightens the eye area for a beautiful start to daily makeup application.

SPF 15 Brightening Moisturizer

Brightening:

Vitamin C and Orange Oil naturally brighten and restore even tone, while light-reflecting Mica gives skin a subtle glow.

Hydrating:

Nutrient-replenishing Mineral Water and Coconut Oil provide lightweight moisture that leaves skin feeling soft and supple.

Protecting and Age-Defying:

Broad spectrum mineral SPF defends against sun damage while natural antioxidants and our wrinkle-fighting, collagen-boosting peptide help firm and restore skin for a more youthful appearance.

Makeup Ready:

Lightweight enough to be worn underneath makeup for added SPF protection and a subtle glow.

SPF 16 Age-Defying Treatment Serum

Age Defying:

Alpha Lipoic Acid, natural antioxidants, and our powerful wrinkle-fighting, collagen-boosting, dual-peptide blend help firm skin and restore natural radiance.

Protecting and Hydrating:

Broad spectrum mineral SPF defends against sun damage and premature signs of aging. Shea Butter provides lightweight moisture and helps improve skin’s texture and elasticity.

Makeup Ready:

Flawlessly layer this lightweight, powerful age-defying serum underneath makeup to effortlessly treat and protect skin.

Cruelty Free

All Mineral Fusion products are certified cruelty free through The Leaping Bunny Organization. So rest assured that you can pick up any Mineral Fusion product and know that no animal has been harmed in the process of making it.

Artificial Fragrance Free

Most of our products are fragrance free. However, when we do add fragrance, as with our hair care and skin care, our fragrance blends are derived from 100% natural, 100% vegan botanical extractions, which is a source of pride for Mineral Fusion.

Gluten Free

All Mineral Fusion products are gluten free. We conduct third party testing on all of our products to ensure that they are free of gluten.

Formula Purity

All of our products are free of gluten, parabens, SLS, phthalates, artificial colors and synthetic fragrances. All of our products are 100% Vegetarian, and most are even 100% Vegan.

Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Exfoliating Daily Facial Scrub, Moisture-Rich Soy Extract, Soap-Free, Hypoallergenic & Non-Comedogenic Face Cleanser, 5 Oz

Neutrogena

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gently remove impurities for softer, brighter, more even-toned skin with Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Face Scrub. This brightening daily facial scrub gently exfoliates skin and helps improve tone, texture and clarity to reveal brighter, more radiant skin. The soap-free exfoliator is designed to help improve dullness and blotchiness, so your skin looks and feels fresh. The unique formula of this gentle face scrub combines moisture-rich soy extract with naturally derived granules to exfoliate while you cleanse. The face exfoliating scrub is also made with jojoba and castor oils, for skin that is softer, brighter and more even-toned. The mild soap-free cleanser formula is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and gentle enough for sensitive skin and everyday use.The Positively Radiant collection is designed to enhance your natural radiance and give you a lit-from-within glow. Each soy enriched product targets even tone and texture.

  • 5-ounce tube of Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening and Exfoliating Daily Face Scrub cleanses and helps improve skin tone, texture, and clarity, for softer, brighter skin
  • The unique formula of this brightening facial scrub contains moisture-rich soy extract and naturally derived granules designed to gently remove impurities from skin's surface
  • Gentle enough for sensitive skin, the daily exfoliating cleanser is also formulated with jojoba and castor oils and gives you smoother, more even-toned skin
  • From a dermatologist recommended skin care brand, this gentle face scrub is soap-free and hypoallergenic It is suitable for sensitive skin and everyday use, and is non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores
  • The Aveeno Positively Radiant collection is designed to enhance your natural radiance and give you a lit-from-within glow Each soy enriched product targets even skin tone and texture

User questions & answers

Question: This product is listed as the #1 Seller in Facial Tinted Moisturizers in the Amazon site, is it really tinted
Answer: Wow, that's interesting that it would be listed as a "facial TINTED moisturizer." It is NOT a tinted moisturizer! It is just a really great facial moisturizer!
Question: Does it dry out your face
Answer: Yes it does but also your skin is very smooth after and soft but I but on my face cream or lotion after
Question: What are the total ingredients in this product
Answer: Hello!! this product contains Avobenzone 3% , Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 2% and in the front of the bottle says Daily Moisturizer with sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15. Clinically proven to even tone and texture. Active naturals, Total Soy Complex. I hope this information is useful for you. For my skin the product is excellent!! So tell me if its the same for you. Have a nice day !!
Question: parabens
Answer: I read the ingredients listed on this Amazon page. Its November 17, 2020. Unless the Amazon page for this product is out-dated and they are selling something different from the listing; there are parabens. There are 5, count them, different PARABENS. So does it have parabens? Yes it does have parabens.

Product features

Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Daily Scrub for Face

Its unique formula combines moisture-rich soy extract with microbeads to gently exfoliate while you cleanse, leaving your skin looking and feeling cleaner, smoother, and radiantly heaklthy. It’s also oil free, soap free, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and gentle enough for everyday use, even on sensitive skin.

Moisture-Rich Soy Extract

Evens skin tone and texture for radiant-looking skin.

Traditional Chinese medicine has used soy for thousands of years to reduce the appearance of blotchy skin and discoloration. Aveeno scientists devised a way to process soybeans that retains the integrity of the proteins to provide immediate and long-term skin benefits. Products with our moisture rich soy extract visibly help transform dull, uneven skin into brighter, more radiant skin.

About Aveeno Brand

From humble beginnings in 1945, the story of the Aveeno Brand has been one of discovery. By unlocking nature’s powers through scientific advances, they have discovered ways to nurture and transform skin and hair to an enhanced state of natural health and beauty.

Lifeline Skincare Brightening Cleanser with Salicylic Acid and Rice Enzyme powder exfoliate dead cells, instantly smooths and brightens skin

Lifeline Skin Care, Inc.

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price
  • Dispense a small amount into wet hands creating a lather. Spread evenly over damp face and neck with a circular motion until microcapsule beads have dissolved. Rinse with warm water and towel dry. Repeat morning and evening or as needed.
  • Ultra-fine powders that micro-exfoliate dull, dry, dead skin cells, instantly leaving skin smoother and brighter
  • Anti-oxidants help reveal brighter, more even skin tone
  • Salicylic acid causes the uppermost layer of skin to soften and then peel, removing dead skin cells
  • Gentle and hydrating, Lifeline Brightening Cleanser will not disturb skin’s natural moisture balance

User questions & answers

Question: What is a full list of ingredients
Answer: We do NOT recommend this for tea. This is very potent, 100% pure, undiluted oregano oil with no carrier oil. Since oil and water do not mix (usually), the oil can float to the top of the tea, and a large amount of oil can touch your lips and mouth surfaces, which would be very unpleasant. For internal use, 1 or 2 drops of pure oil can be diluted in food or carrier oil or thick drink, or it can be added to an empty capsule.

Product features

Lifeline Skincare Brightening Cleanser

"Clean" never felt or looked so good. The ultra-fine powders in Lifeline’s Brightening Cleanser activates upon contact with water, releasing Salicylic Acid and Rice Enzyme powder that exfoliate dead cells, instantly leaving skin smoother and brighter looking. Non-Irritating

  • Fragrance Free
  • Non-Irritating
  • Manufactured in the USA

SCIENTIFIC TECHNOLOGY + HIGHLY ADVANCED INGREDIENTS

How do you use scientific breakthroughs to craft superior anti-aging skin care? At Lifeline, we began with our own patented stem cell skin care discovery. While researching cures for diabetes and Parkinson's Disease, a team of biotech scientists discovered a powerful human stem cell extract that improved the look of aging skin. This discovery has created a new era in anti-aging skin care products. We continue to build on that stem cell success, using our advanced absorption technology to deliver specialized ingredients more effectively through our expanded skin care line.

THE POWER OF HUMAN STEM CELLS

Our unique patented process creates human stem cell extracts from unfertilized eggs, rather than embryos. Our parent company, International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) is the only source for these ground-breaking stem cell skin serums. ISCO has pioneered a new class of human pluripotent stem cells derived from unfertilized eggs. These stem cells, known as human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSC) retain all of the advantages required to generate targeted therapeutic tissues for research and regenerative therapies.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES DELIVER ADVANCED ANTI-AGING

Lifeline Skin Care products are more easily absorbed by the skin, because of our small molecule technology. Recently, our scientists have found a way to harness small molecule technology, allowing specialized ingredients to be absorbed into skin more easily and infinitely faster because of their low molecular weight. These micro-molecules work to firm and tone, awakening dormant collagen and more.

BREAKTHROUGH SKIN CARE HELPS FUND RESEARCH

The purchasing of Lifeline Skin Care products helps to fund further research into finding cures and treatments for:

• Parkinson's Disease and other diseases of the nervous system

• Blinding diseases of the eye

• Liver disease

Image Skincare Iluma Intense Brightening Exfoliating Cleanser 4 oz, 4 oz.

AmazonUs/IKB3U

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This gentle refining cleanser removes impurities while helping to visibly brighten and illuminate the skin. Bamboo spheres and smart sensing beads exfoliate dull skin to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion.

Brand Story

IMAGE Skincare is a clean and professional line backed by clinical results. Created by an esthetician, formulated by Dr. Marc Ronert, a plastic surgeon, and represented by a network of 20,000 skincare professionals.

Product features

ILUMA intense brightening exfoliating cleanser

A luxurious cream-to-foam cleanser with natural exfoliants to pack the most brightening power into your cleansing step.

Massage a liberal amount onto wet skin for 1 minute and rinse with lukewarm water. Use morning and evening for best results.

This one-step brightening cleanser + exfoliator gives a brightening jumpstart to your daily routine. A mushroom-derived enzyme, bamboo spheres and smart-sensing beads gently refine the skin, while natural extracts work to boost luminosity.

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