A picture of one the cleansers recommended by the writer
Here’s the cue: not all cleansers are formulated to perform the same function, even though they all cleanse. Picking the wrong one can feel like trying to force a square peg into a round hole.
It just won’t work effectively, and honestly, it can leave your skin feeling worked out.
Maybe that gel cleanser your bestie swears by leaves your face tight and begging for mercy. Or that rich, creamy balm that promises heaven makes you break out in tiny little bumps.
Sound familiar? It is not necessarily the brand but the type of cleanser and your skin.
Performing and consulting on skincare daily, take it from me that finding the perfect cleanser isn’t about luck but about knowing what your skin type is actually craving. In this article, I matched the different types of cleansers to your skin type for effective results. Let’s delve into the 4 types of cleansers.
Foam Cleanser
Foam cleansers are water-based cleansers that create a light, airy lather when mixed with water. It contains surfactants that lift away oil, sweat, and dirt from the face, leaving a “squeaky clean” feel. This type of cleanser targets the oily parts of the skin, specifically the T-zone area. It is best for oily and acne-prone skin types, as it actively removes dirt and oil from pores.
This cleanser contains salicylic acid (an active skincare ingredient that exfoliates skin, controls excess sebum [ oil ] production, and keeps pores clear) and niacinamide (a beneficial ingredient that regulates oil, calming skin, minimising pores and strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier, while simultaneously washing away dirt and impurities).
The key is to look out for foam cleansers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerine to avoid drying out the skin and keep it moisturised.
Oil Cleanser
These are a blend of oils that bind to the oils on your face, as well as sunscreen and makeup. It dissolves all oil-based impurities on the skin without stripping it, transforming into a milky emulsion when mixed with water.
Contrary to skincare myth, oil cleansers are great for oily skin, as they help balance oil production.
They are the ‘absolute gold standard’ for removing long-wear makeup. This type of cleanser contains ingredients such as Jojoba and sunflower. This cleanser hydrates while cleansing at the same time. It is best for dry skin.
Gel Cleanser
This is a water-based cleanser with a jelly-like consistency and is often transparent. It is lather-free and sometimes produces light lather. It offers deeper cleans than a cream cleanser but is also gentler than a foam cleanser.
This type of cleanser is best for a combination skin type – an ideal cleanser for balancing an oily T-zone and normal cheeks. It offers a thorough yet refreshing clean. It contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera or tea tree oil.
Cream Cleanser
It is a rich, lotion-like cleanser with a creamy texture that typically doesn’t lather. It contains emollients (oil-based ingredients that soften and smooth the skin by filling in the gaps between skin cells with fatty substances) and hydrators to gently cleanse while moisturising the skin.
It’s like giving your face a drink of water while it washes. It is a gentle way to refresh your skin without disrupting its barrier, as it is formulated using minimal and soothing ingredients. It contains ingredients such as Glycerin and Ceramides. It is best used for morning cleansing as it nourishes and never strips.
Using your cleanser(s) correctly is as important as choosing the perfect one for your skin type. Imagine having the right tool for a job, yet having no idea how to use the tool. It would definitely amount to nothing. If you have been wondering how to choose and use a cleanser correctly, then this is your guide.
It is important to double cleanse at all times during your cleansing routines. For effective results, cleanse twice daily. In the morning and evening.
As a lady, it is advisable to own two or more types of the above cleansers. An oil cleanser is a must if you wear makeup, as it effectively removes makeup, SPF and oil-based impurities that water-based cleansers alone cannot handle.
The subsequent water-based cleansers remove any lingering water-soluble impurities like sweat and dirt, leading to a more thorough, deeper clean for clearer skin and better product absorption.
For morning cleansing routines, use a gentle cream or gel cleanser. For your evenings, you can use any of the four above-listed cleansers. Advisably, use an oil cleanser as your first step in your double cleansing method.