This review article provides useful information on TiO₂ and ZnO photocatalysts and their derivatives in removing organic contaminants such as dyes, hydrocarbons, pesticides, etc. Also, the reaction mechanisms of TiO₂ and ZnO photocatalysts and their derivatives were investigated. In addition, the impact of adding metallic (e.g., Ag, Co, Pt, Pd, Cu, Au, and Ni) and non-metallic (e.g., C, N, O, and S) cocatalysts to their structure on the photodegradation efficiency of organic compounds was thoroughly studied. Moreover, the advantages and disadvantages of various synthesis procedures of ZnO and TiO₂ nanocatalysts were discussed and compared. Furthermore, the impact of photocatalyst dosage, photocatalyst structure, contaminant concentration, pH, light intensity and wavelength, temperature, and reaction time on the photodegradation efficiency were studied. According to previous studies, adding metallic and non-metallic cocatalysts to the TiO₂ and ZnO structure led to a remarkable enhancement in their stability and reusability. In addition, metallic and non-metallic cocatalysts attached to TiO₂ and ZnO demonstrated remarkable photocatalytic efficiency in removing organic contaminants.