Not All Cleansers are Created Equal

There are many kinds of cleansers (also called face wash) from foaming and creamy cleansers to oil and active cleansers. So, what’s the difference and how are each of them to be used? Let’s dive into a few.

Gel Cleansers- Good for all skin types, but especially combination and oily skin.

These cleansers have a clear jelly like consistency and when mixed with water they create a good lather and work to deeply clean pores by removing oil and bacteria. Because they are water soluble, a splash of water will rinse them off and leave behind a squeaky-clean feel which is especially satisfying to those with oily skin.

Cream Cleansers-All skin types, but especially dry and sensitive.

Because of the higher lipid content, these cleansers feel more like a lotion and do a great job of both removing make up and moisturizing skin. They can be applied straight to the skin to gently cleanse without stripping any oils. However, because they are not water soluble, they must be removed with a wet washcloth and will leave the skin feeling soft and supple and moisturized.

Oil Cleansers-All skin types

Made entirely of oils, because like attracts like, these cleansers dissolve oil and are robust at removing makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and dirt. They are applied without water and require a wet washcloth for removal because as we all know; water alone can’t remove oil. They do not strip the skin of its natural oils, but instead leave behind a veil of nourishment on the skin which can be great for dry skin. Some can use this as their primary cleanser while others who prefer to remove this oil will use it to pre-cleanse and follow up with an active or gel cleanser.

Active Cleansers-Depends on ingredients and concern

Cleansers with targeted active ingredients (often acids) such as salicylic, lactic, mandelic, or glycolic are usually used as a second cleanse since they are not formulated to remove make up. Active cleansers usually cause exfoliation, which can be very beneficial to the skin unless they are overused-think too much stress without enough rest-so they are best used a couple of times a week or every other day. To do their job, they must sit on the skin for a couple of minutes so don’t wash the good stuff off too quickly.

Need help finding the right cleanser? Message me anytime. I’d be happy to chat and give you a sample to try out on your skin.