cleanser

noun

cleans·​er ˈklen-zər 

: a person or thing that cleanses something

especially : a preparation (such as a scouring powder or a skin cream) used for cleaning

Synonyms of cleanser

• soap

Examples of cleanser in a Sentence

Sprinkle some cleanser on the floor and let it sit for a while before you start scrubbing.

Recent Examples on the Web

An October 2025 study in the British Journal of Dermatology, funded by Unilever, examined 65 women aged 40 to 50 and found those who looked younger had more resilient skin microbiomes, supporting the case for letting skin rest some nights with just a cleanser and moisturizer. —Allison Palmer updated June 13, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 June 2026

Some nights a cleanser and moisturizer is the right call. —Allison Palmer updated June 13, Miami Herald, 13 June 2026

Bare nails seem to boomerang around in the culture every other year as a sort of palette cleanser. —Sable Yong, Allure, 11 June 2026

Anua’s powder-to-foam formula can be used as a traditional cleanser or mixed with toner for a satisfying face mask. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 8 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cleanser

noun

cleans·​er ˈklen-zər 

: a substance (as a scouring powder or cold cream) used for cleaning

Medical Definition

cleanser

noun

cleans·​er ˈklen-zər 

: a preparation including a cleaning agent for cleansing the skin, the teeth, or glass surfaces