5 Burt’s Bees Face Wash You Must Try 2025

If you’re looking for a face wash that feels natural yet performs well, Burt’s Bees is a brand worth exploring. In this article, I’ll walk you through 5 standout Burt’s Bees face wash products—why they’re unique, who they work best for, and any trade-offs to watch out for. You’ll also get tips on choosing the right one for your skin type, how to use them, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive in.
Disclaimer: I’m not a dermatologist, and everyone’s skin is different. What works great for me or many others might not suit you. Always patch test new skincare, especially if you have sensitive skin or known allergies. If you have a serious skin condition (like eczema, psoriasis, or severe acne), check with a dermatologist before trying new products.
Why Burt’s Bees? A quick look
Burt’s Bees has built its reputation around natural origin ingredients, minimal synthetic additives, and a more nature-friendly branding.
Their face washes tend to avoid harsh sulfates and heavy fragrances. Many users find them gentler than conventional cleansers.
But “natural” isn’t automatically perfect. Some formulas may still irritate if your skin is especially reactive. As with any skincare choice, it’s about balancing what your skin needs and tolerates.
What to look for when choosing a face wash
Before I list the five Burt’s Bees options, here are quick red flags and green flags I keep in mind when picking a face wash:
- Green flags: gentle surfactants, hydrating or soothing ingredients (aloe, chamomile), low fragrance (or fragrance from essential oils), non-stripping feel, pH close to skin’s (around 5–6).
- Red flags: strong alcohols, harsh sulfates, heavy fragrance oils, ingredients you know you’re sensitive to (like citrus peel, menthol, etc.).
- Texture & feel: A cleanser that foams a lot might feel satisfying, but may also dry you out if it’s too aggressive. A creamy or gel cleanser often feels kinder.
- Purpose: Some cleansers are for deep cleansing (morning or makeup days), others are for daily gentle use. You might even use more than one in your routine.
Here are 5 Burt’s Bees face washes worth trying.
1. Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser
Why it stands out
This one is designed for sensitive skin. It’s fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested, and claims to soften as it cleanses. Many users highlight how gentle it feels. One reviewer said it cleaned without leaving tightness or drying.
What to watch out for
Some users mention it’s a bit more watery than creamy, and may not remove heavy makeup by itself.
Also, a few reviews suggest that after formula changes, some sensitive users felt mild irritation.
Best for
Folks with dry, sensitive, or combination skin who want a mild daily cleanser.
2. Burt’s Bees Deep Cleansing Cream
Why it stands out
This is a cream cleanser formulated with soap bark and chamomile. It’s more of a “deep” cleanser, better for days when you want to clean off more buildup.
Many reviewers say it leaves the skin clean without that tight, squeaky feeling.
What to watch out for
Because it’s a deeper cleansing, it may be too strong for daily use on dry or very sensitive skin.
Some people feel like there’s a slight residue or a need to double rinse.
Best for
Normal to oily skin types, or on days when you’ve worn makeup, sunscreen, or had a heavy day outside.
3. Burt’s Bees Skin Nourishment Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Why it stands out
A foaming formula that gives you that satisfying lather without aggressive cleansing agents. The “skin nourishment” line aims for a balance of clean and gentle.
If you like foam but dislike the dryness that often comes with it, this might hit the sweet spot.
What to watch out for
Foaming cleansers tend to be more drying for very dry skin.
If your skin is sensitive to essential oils, check the ingredient list (foaming cleansers sometimes hide stronger scents).
Best for
Combination or normal skin types that like a bit of foam.
4. Burt’s Bees Orange Essence Facial Cleanser
Why it stands out
This one leans into citrus and aims to invigorate. If you like that fresh, bright feel in the morning, you’ll enjoy this.
Many users say their skin feels clean and fresh afterward.
What to watch out for
Citrus can be irritating for some skin types, especially sensitive or reactive ones.
In older user forums, some mentioned breakouts or sensitivity with use.
Best for
Skin that tolerates fragrance and citrus, especially in morning routines.
5. Burt’s Bees Natural Acne Solution Purifying Gel Cleanser
Why it stands out
This is more of a targeted solution cleanser. If you have occasional breakouts, this gel cleanser can help. It usually includes salicylic acid or similar purifying ingredients (depending on the region).
It’s a good choice when you want something stronger but still from the Burt’s Bees line.
What to watch out for
It may dry out surrounding skin, so you’ll want to pair it with a soothing moisturizer.
If your skin is very sensitive, start using it less frequently to see how your skin responds.
Best for
Oily or acne-prone skin that still wants a “more natural” feel.
How to choose the right one for your skin
Here’s a little cheat sheet:
Skin Situation | Use This | Tip |
---|---|---|
Very sensitive/dry | Sensitive Facial Cleanser | Use once or twice daily, avoid harsh scrubs |
Normal/mixed | Skin Nourishment Foaming | Keep it balanced; consider alternating with a deeper cleanse |
Oily / breakouts | Purifying Gel Cleanser | Avoid overuse; moisturize afterward |
Makeup/sunscreen days | Deep Cleansing Cream | Use in the evening or as a second cleanse |
Want a “wake up fresh” feel | Orange Essence | Use in the morning, but test for irritation |
A trick: sometimes, one cleanser isn’t enough. You could do a very gentle cleanser daily, and deeper ones 2–3 times a week.
How to use these cleansers in your routine
1. Start with wet skin
Splash lukewarm water. Hot water can strip natural oils.
2. Use a nickel or pea-sized amount
Too much doesn’t clean better; it can irritate.
3. Massage gently for 30 seconds to 1 minute
Use fingertips in circular motions.
4. Rinse well
Keep rinsing until there’s no slip or residue left.
5. Pat dry — don’t rub
Use a clean soft towel.
6. Seal with a moisturizer (while skin is still slightly damp)
It helps lock in hydration and buffer any residual dryness.
7. Night vs morning
Use your gentlest cleanser in the morning. Use deeper or targeted ones at night when needed.
What users say (pros & cons)
Pros:
- Many users highlight ga entle feel and “soft skin after wash.”
- They tend to avoid the “tight, squeaky clean” feeling.
- The natural / cleaner brand perception is a big plus for many.
Cons:
- Some users say the cleansing power is mild — may not remove heavy makeup fully.
- A few have experienced irritation, especially after formula changes.
- Some feel residue, require an extra rinse, or a double cleanse.
Also, in one Reddit thread, someone wrote:
“The Cleansing Cream actually broke me out, and the Soap Bark made my skin super dry.” Reddit
This reminds us—your skin’s reaction can differ.
FAQs
Q: Can I use these Burt’s Bees face washes if I have eczema or rosacea?
A: Maybe, but with caution. The “Sensitive” line is your safest bet, and I’d recommend a patch test first (behind the ear or lower jaw). Avoid citrus or gel cleansers until your skin is stable. If your medical condition is active, talk to your dermatologist.
Q: Do these cleansers remove makeup and sunscreen well?
A: The deeper cleansers (like the Deep Cleansing Cream) tend to do better on sunscreen or light makeup days. But for waterproof or heavy makeup, you may still want a separate process (like oil cleansing or micellar wipe) first.
Q: How often should I use the stronger ones (like the purifying gel)?
A: Start with 2–3 times a week at night. Monitor how your skin reacts (tightness, flaking). If it tolerates well, you could increase, but avoid daily unless your skin needs it.
Q: Are these “100 % natural”?
A: They are often marketed as high percentage natural origin (for instance, 98.9 % natural for some formulas), but “natural origin” doesn’t always mean perfect for every skin type. Some natural ingredients can still irritate.
Q: Do these products expire quickly?
A: Like most skincare, once opened, aim to use within 12 months (or as per label). Keep them away from direct sunlight and high heat to preserve their integrity.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for gentle, more nature-inspired face washes, these 5 Burt’s Bees options are a solid starting point. The Sensitive Facial Cleanser is ideal for daily use on delicate skin. The Deep Cleansing Cream and Orange Essence are good for heavier cleansing or morning refresh. Skin Nourishment Gentle Foaming Cleanser bridges between gentle and foamy. And if breakouts are your concern, the Purifying Gel Cleanser is worth trying cautiously.
But remember: there’s no one perfect cleanser for everyone. Your skin type, climate, other products in your routine, and how your skin changes over time all matter. Use patch tests, start slowly, and adjust as you go. If your skin reacts badly, pause and reassess.