By now everyone is familiar with cleansers, but with so many cleansers on the market, how do you choose the right one for your skin type and needs? We'll start with the basics and the various types of cleansers and then delve into how often you should cleanse depending on your skin type and whether you wear makeup.
So why do we need a cleanser every day? According to Partha Mukhopadhya from the National Library of Medicine, 'Skin cleansers are surface-active substances (i.e. emulsifiers/detergents/surfactants/soaps) that lower the surface tension on the skin and remove dirt, sebum, oil from cosmetic products, microorganisms, and exfoliated corneum cells in an emulsified form. An ideal cleanser should do all these without damaging or irritating the skin, on the contrary, it should try to keep the skin surface moist.' There are very many different types of cleansers, here's a list containing some of the most common types and who they're best for:
Types of cleansers:
Gel Cleansers - good on oily and combination skin types
Cream Cleansers - best for dry and sensitive skin types
Foam Cleansers - great on oily and acne-prone skin types
Oil Cleansers - perfect for all skin types, especially those with makeup or sunscreen buildup
Let's dive a bit deeper into why certain cleansers are good for specific skin types. Choosing the right cleanser for your skin type is imperative for effectively removing impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils or causing irritation. Not only does it keep you feeling fresh and clean, but it sets the foundation for the rest of your skincare products to work more effectively.
Gel cleansers are water-based which means they're great at providing a refreshing sensation, leaving your skin feeling revitalized without stripping it of its essential moisture. They're also lightweight and non-greasy which helps to control excess oil production and makes them ideal for oily or combination skin.
Cream cleansers (like our Satin Skin Creamy Cleanser) have a rich texture, helping to hydrate and nourish the skin. They're extraordinarily gentle on the skin as well, making them suitable for sensitive and dry skin since they maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.
Foam cleansers create a lather that helps to penetrate deep into the pores, effectively removing excess oil and impurities. This foaming action provides a refreshing cleansing experience and makes them perfect for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Oil cleansers are a fun one because contrary to popular beliefs, oil cleansers can help balance oil production and prevent breakouts without stripping the skin. These cleansers are highly effective in breaking down tough makeup and sunscreen making them the perfect solution for most skin types.
Remember, skincare is about finding what works best for you, so experiment a bit and monitor your skin!
Lastly: when should you be cleansing? This depends on your skin type and if you wear make-up.
Dry and aging skin usually requires less cleansing; if you find you're feeling extra dry, you're likely cleansing too often or your cleanser is too strong. A creamy cleanser is best for this skin type.
If you have oily skin, it's best to cleanse your face twice a day - morning and night. In the morning, a gentle cleanse is important to refresh the skin to remove oil buildup. At night, a single cleanse is great for removing daily impurities; if you wear makeup, it's recommended that you perform a double cleanse with an oil cleanser followed by your regular cleanser to ensure thorough removal.
Key Takeaways:
Know your skin type to understand which cleanser would be the most beneficial for you.
Double cleanse especially if you wear makeup to ensure proper removal.
Quality over quantity, a good cleanser doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be effective and suited to your skin type.
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