I finally tried Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser in a very real-life moment. I spotted it in the airport on the way to Canada after realising I’d forgotten my usual CeraVe cleanser. Between the hype and needing something dependable for travel, I decided to give it a proper go.
This review is based on using it consistently in my own routine, including alongside tretinoin, during colder months, and on skin that isn’t always at its best.
Quick Take: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser for Sensitive & Combination Skin
This cleanser is best suited to anyone who enjoys a really fresh, ultra-clean feeling after washing their face, without using something harsh or obviously stripping. It removes makeup and SPF very effectively and feels luxurious to use, but it focuses more on thorough cleansing than comfort.
If you have sensitive skin or are using tretinoin, it may feel a little too active for everyday use. While it isn’t aggressive, it isn’t especially calming either, and it doesn’t offer the same soothing, barrier-supportive feel as more gentle or hydrating cleansers.
What Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser?
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is a gel-based cleanser designed to remove dirt, oil, makeup, and SPF without using soap. It’s marketed as suitable for all skin types and positioned as an everyday cleanser that cleans thoroughly without feeling harsh.
It sits firmly in the premium skincare space that Kiehl’s is known for: well-formulated, polished, and designed to feel like a small daily luxury rather than a basic wash-and-go product.
My Skin Type & Why Cleanser Choice Matters
I have combination skin. It can be oilier in summer, drier in winter, and I’m prone to blackheads around my nose and chin. I also use tretinoin, which means my skin barrier can be more reactive at certain times.
Because of that, cleansers are one step I don’t mess about with. If a cleanser is too stripping or too active, everything else in my routine struggles to work properly.
Ingredients Breakdown: What’s In It and Why It Matters
Here are some of the key ingredients in the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser. This is where a lot of the appeal of this cleanser really comes from.
Squalane
This is one of the key ingredients and a big reason it’s often recommended. Squalane helps support the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss during cleansing. In theory, this should help stop skin from feeling tight or stripped after washing.
Apricot Kernel Oil
This adds a level of softness and slip to the formula, helping the cleanser feel more nourishing than a typical foaming wash. It’s there to counterbalance the cleansing agents so skin feels comfortable afterwards.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is included for its antioxidant properties and its ability to support the skin barrier. It can help calm the skin and protect against everyday environmental stress.
Mild Surfactants
These are what actually do the cleansing. They’re gentler than traditional soap-based cleansers, but still effective enough to break down makeup, SPF, and daily grime.
On paper, this is a really solid ingredient list. It explains why the cleanser works so well at cleaning the skin, but also why it doesn’t feel heavy or creamy like some hydrating cleansers.
Texture, Foam & First Impressions
This cleanser is genuinely lovely to use. It has a pearly, creamy look and foams up nicely once you add water. You don’t need much at all, a small amount goes a long way.
I’ve been using the 75ml tube and it lasts a couple of months easily, even with regular use.
How to Use Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
I personally prefer this as a night-time cleanser rather than in the morning, as it feels more active and thorough. This makes it a good option for combination skin and oil-leaning skin type.
Apply a small amount to damp skin, massage gently using circular motions, then add a little water to help it foam. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
If you wear eye makeup, I’d recommend removing that separately first. I found this cleanser can sting slightly around the eyes, especially if your skin is sensitive.
When using tretinoin or other actives, I like to use this earlier in the evening and give my skin time to settle before applying treatments. On days when my skin feels fragile, I switch to something gentler. It can be used daily, but I personally find it works best as an evening cleanser rather than twice a day.
How It Feels on the Skin
This is where my experience differs slightly from the hype.
It does sting the eyes a little, especially if you try to use it to remove eye makeup. That sensation fades quickly once rinsed off, but it wasn’t as gentle as I expected.
On the face, it gives a very noticeable “clean clean” feeling. Some people absolutely love that. For me, it feels effective rather than comforting.
Makeup, SPF & Cleansing Power
There’s no denying that this non-stripping facial cleanser works well.
It breaks down SPF and heavier foundations easily and rinses completely clean without leaving residue. You could absolutely use this as a one-step evening cleanse if that’s your preference.
Sensitive Skin & Tretinoin Use
On bad barrier days, especially while using tretinoin, I noticed slight tingling. It didn’t last long after rinsing, but it was noticeable.
Because of that, I wouldn’t recommend this cleanser if you’re new to tretinoin or actively trying to repair your skin barrier. I’m comfortable using it now because I know my skin well, but I wouldn’t use it close to active application.
This isn’t a calming cleanser. It’s a cleansing cleanser. If you’re looking for a cleanser for sensitive skin while using tretinoin, this may feel too active.
Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser Good for Acne and Blackheads?
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser isn’t an acne treatment cleanser, but it can be helpful if you’re prone to congestion or blackheads, particularly around the nose and chin.
Because it cleans thoroughly and removes excess oil, SPF, and makeup effectively, it helps keep pores clear. I didn’t experience any breakouts or clogged pores while using it, which is always a good sign.
That said, if acne is your main concern, you’d still need targeted treatment products alongside it. This cleanser works best as a solid foundation step rather than a solution on its own.
Who Should Probably Skip This Cleanser
I wouldn’t recommend this if your skin is very sensitive, reactive, or currently focused on barrier repair. While it isn’t aggressive, it isn’t soothing either, and that slight tingling can be uncomfortable if your skin is already compromised.
If you’re new to tretinoin or retinoids, dealing with rosacea-prone skin, or looking for a cleanser that actively calms and hydrates, there are gentler options that will suit you better.
This also isn’t the best choice if you dislike any fragrance at all, as there is a light floral scent.
Who I’d Recommend Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser To
I’d recommend Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser if you’re someone who enjoys that really clean, fresh feeling after washing your face and you want a cleanser that removes makeup and SPF properly without feeling harsh or drying.
It works particularly well if you have combination or oil-leaning skin, wear makeup regularly, or prefer a foaming cleanser that rinses completely clean. If you’re experienced with actives and know your skin well, it can fit into your routine without issues.
This is also a good option if you want a more premium cleanser that feels considered and well made, rather than a basic supermarket face wash.
My Mini Review: Who This Cleanser Actually Works For
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is a really well-formulated product and there’s no denying that it works. It removes makeup and SPF easily, foams beautifully, and leaves skin feeling very clean without any residue. From a formulation point of view, it feels considered and high quality, which is something Kiehl’s generally does very well.
For me, it sits more in the “effective cleanse” category rather than the “gentle comfort” one. I enjoy using it in the evening when I want that fresh, properly cleansed feeling at the end of the day, especially after wearing makeup or SPF. However, it’s not the cleanser I instinctively reach for when my skin feels dry, sensitive, or in need of barrier repair.
I don’t dislike it at all, and I can completely understand why so many people rate it highly, but it isn’t a universal holy grail in my routine. It’s more of a situational cleanser for me rather than an everyday staple, and whether you’ll love it really comes down to how much you value that ultra-clean finish over hydration and comfort.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Cleans skin thoroughly
- Removes makeup and SPF easily
- Foams well without needing much product
- Rinses clean with no residue
- Contains barrier-supporting ingredients
- Feels luxurious to use
Cons
- Not as gentle as often claimed
- Can sting the eyes slightly
- May tingle on sensitive or compromised skin
- Light floral scent
- Not ideal if you prefer hydrating cleansers
Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser Worth the Price?
This really depends on what you want from a cleanser.
It sits at a higher price point than many gentle cleansers, but a little goes a long way and the smaller sizes last longer than you’d expect. If you enjoy the experience of using skincare and like that ultra-clean finish, you may feel it’s worth the money.
If you’re on a budget or prioritise hydration and barrier support over that fresh feeling, there are cheaper cleansers that do a better job for sensitive skin.
How Long I’ve Used It & Longevity
I’ve used this cleanser consistently over several weeks, including during colder weather and while using tretinoin. Over time, my thoughts on it stayed the same. It’s effective, reliable, and never caused breakouts, but it didn’t become a must-have in my routine either.
This longer-term use confirmed that it’s more about preference than performance.
Who This Cleanser Makes Sense For (Quick Summary)
If you’re skimming and trying to decide quickly, this cleanser makes sense if you:
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Have combination or oil-leaning skin
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Wear makeup or SPF daily
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Enjoy a foaming, non-stripping facial cleanser
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Prefer a very clean finish after cleansing
You may want to skip it if you:
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Have very sensitive or reactive skin
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Are new to tretinoin or barrier repair
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Prefer creamy or hydrating cleansers
Which Skin Types Will Like This Cleanser?
Combination skin
Yes. This is where it performs best.
Oily skin
Likely yes, especially if you enjoy a very clean finish.
Dry skin
It depends. Fine in warmer months, but can feel too active in winter.
Sensitive skin
Probably not ideal. It isn’t harsh, but it isn’t soothing either.
Mature skin
Mixed. Oilier mature skin may enjoy it, drier mature skin may prefer something gentler.
Tretinoin or retinoid users
Use with caution. Fine if experienced, not ideal if you’re new.
How It Compares to Gentler Cleansers (Like CeraVe)
Compared to gentler, non-foaming cleansers, this one feels more active. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser focuses on cleansing thoroughly and leaving skin feeling very clean, whereas gentler cleansers prioritise comfort, hydration, and barrier support.
I personally reach for gentler options more often, especially in winter or when my skin feels sensitive. This cleanser is more of a situational choice for me rather than an everyday staple.
If you prefer a cleanser that leaves skin feeling calm and hydrated, this may feel a bit too much. If you enjoy that squeaky-clean finish, this will suit you better.
Kiehl’s Cleansers Compared: Which One Is Right for Your Skin?
If you’re looking at Kiehl’s cleansers, it’s very easy to get confused because several of them sound similar but behave very differently on the skin. The three people tend to compare most often are Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser, Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Barrier‑Hydrating Cleanser, and Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser.
While they all sit under the Kiehl’s name, they’re designed for very different skin needs.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
This is the most balanced of the three and the one I’ve focused on in this review. It’s a foaming gel cleanser that removes makeup and SPF really well and leaves skin feeling very clean without that tight, squeaky sensation you get from harsher face washes.
It suits combination skin best and works well if you want an everyday cleanser that feels effective and polished, but not exfoliating. It’s more about thorough cleansing than comfort, which is why it can feel a little too active for very sensitive or tretinoin-treated skin.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Barrier-Hydrating Cleanser
This is the gentlest option of the three. It has a creamier texture, doesn’t foam in the same way, and focuses on supporting the skin barrier rather than deep cleansing.
If your skin is dry, sensitive, reactive, or you’re actively using tretinoin and trying to protect your barrier, this is the one that feels the most calming. It won’t give you that ultra-fresh, deeply cleansed feeling, but it’s far kinder to compromised skin and better suited to morning cleansing or sensitive routines.
Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser
This is the most active and targeted cleanser of the three. It contains clay and is designed to help with excess oil, congestion, and the appearance of pores.
It gives a deeper, more detox-style cleanse and is best suited to oily or congested skin types. If your skin is sensitive, dry, or barrier-focused, this one can feel too much for everyday use, especially alongside actives.
Quick Three-Way Summary (For All You Skimmers)
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Choose Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser if you want a reliable everyday cleanser that removes makeup and SPF and leaves skin feeling very clean.
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Choose Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Barrier-Hydrating Cleanser if your skin is dry, sensitive, or you’re focused on barrier repair and comfort.
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Choose Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser if your skin is oily, congested, and you want a deeper, pore-focused cleanse.
Which One Would I Personally Choose?
For my skin, I reach for Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser when I want a proper end-of-day cleanse that removes makeup and SPF thoroughly. If my skin is feeling dry, sensitive, or a bit overworked from tretinoin, I’d switch to the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Barrier‑Hydrating Cleanser instead. The Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser is one I’d only choose if my skin was leaning oily or congested and needed a deeper clean.
Where to Buy Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser (UK)
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is widely available in the UK, including directly from Kiehl’s, as well as retailers like Space NK and Cult Beauty. It comes in several sizes, which makes it easy to try a smaller tube first if you’re unsure how your skin will react. It’s available in multiple sizes, with the standard 150ml tube sitting in the mid-to-premium cleanser price range.
I’d recommend starting with a smaller size, especially if you have sensitive skin, as a little goes a long way and you’ll quickly know whether it suits your routine.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser FAQ
Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser good for sensitive skin?
Not really. It can tingle and isn’t particularly calming.
Can it remove makeup and SPF?
Yes, very effectively.
Does it sting the eyes?
It can, especially when removing eye makeup.
Does it dry out the skin?
It doesn’t leave skin tight, but it isn’t hydrating.
Does it contain fragrance?
Yes, a light floral scent.
Is it worth the price?
Worth it if you love a very clean feeling. Not essential if you prefer gentle skincare.
Can you use Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser morning and night?
You can, but I personally prefer it at night. In the morning it can feel a bit too active, especially if your skin is dry or sensitive.
Does Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser foam?
Yes. It foams nicely once water is added, but you don’t need much product at all.
Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser non-comedogenic?
It didn’t clog my pores or cause breakouts, but it isn’t marketed as an acne treatment cleanser.
Is it suitable for mature skin?
It can work for mature skin that leans oily or prefers a deeper cleanse, but drier mature skin may find it too stripping for daily use.
Can teenagers use Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser?
Yes, but it may be stronger than necessary. A gentler cleanser would usually be a better starting point.
Is Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser oil-free?
No. It contains lightweight oils like apricot kernel oil and squalane, which help stop skin feeling stripped rather than control oil. If you need an oil-free option for very oily skin, Kiehl’s also makes an Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser.
Final Verdict
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is a great option if you love that properly clean, fresh feeling at the end of the day. It removes makeup and SPF easily, feels luxurious to use, and works well as an everyday cleanser for combination or oil-leaning skin.
That said, it’s not the cleanser I’d reach for when my skin is feeling sensitive, dry, or in need of barrier support. In those moments, I’d personally switch to the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Barrier-Hydrating Cleanser instead. If my skin was oily or congested, the Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser would make more sense.
For me, Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser sits firmly in the “effective, reliable cleanse” category rather than the “gentle comfort” one. It’s a good product, just not a universal one, and whether it’s right for you really comes down to how your skin behaves and what you want from your cleanser.
About the author
Laura is a UK-based beauty and lifestyle blogger at MissLJBeauty.com. She is qualified in beauty and skincare treatments and shares honest, experience-led reviews based on real-life use, including sensitive and tretinoin-treated skin.
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