Naturally youthful-looking skin is nurtured through a healthy lifestyle and good skin care. While advice on routines varies widely (from sticking to a simple routine to investing time in a 10-step regimen), all skin experts agree on one thing: cleansing is essential.
This article explains what a cleanser is, the benefits of consistent use, and how to choose an adequate cleanser for your needs.
What Is a Face Cleanser?
A cleanser is a cosmetic product that removes impurities from the face before applying other skincare products. By eliminating dirt, excess sebum, sweat, makeup, dead skin cells, and environmental pollutants, a cleanser prepares the skin for better absorption of ingredients in products that follow.
Types of Cleanser
There are several types of cleanser based on their formulation and consistency. They are broadly categorized into water-based and oil-based cleansers. Each category further branches into more cleanser types.
Water-Based Cleansers
Water-based cleansers contain water as the main ingredient. They are lightweight, easy to rinse, and they remove water-soluble impurities, such as dirt, sweat, and pollutants. Common types include:
- Gel cleansers – Gentle but deeply cleansing and often hydrating, they are suitable for various skin types.
- Foaming cleansers – When mixed with water, they lather into a rich foam and effectively eliminate oil and dirt. They are particularly beneficial for oily skin.
- Cream/milk cleansers – Non-foaming and hydrating, they are ideal for dry and mature skin.
- Micellar water – Applied with a cotton pad, it removes impurities without the need for rinsing.
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Exfoliating cleansers – Available in both water-based and oil-based forms, these contain exfoliating ingredients like fruit enzymes or acids that dissolve surface impurities and deeply cleanse the skin. They are suitable for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin.
Oil-Based Cleansers
As the name implies, oil-based cleansers use oil as the primary ingredient. They dissolve excess sebum, makeup, sunscreen, and dirt. They are often used as the first step in the double cleansing process.
These cleansers are typically oil-based:
- Cleansing oils – They bind with natural oils on the face, lifting and removing impurities. When rinsed with water, they form a milky emulsion that washes away easily.
- Balm cleansers – Rich and dense, they start out as a solid product that melts into a milky paste upon contact with warm water. They are gentle and don’t strip the skin of its natural oils.
- Exfoliating cleansers – Unlike water-based exfoliating cleansers, which remove dirt and sweat, oil-based products dissolve sebum and makeup. They are suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Vibrant Skin recommends their innovative cleansing formulation, Vibrant Cleanse – Enzyme Biome Cleanser.
Its gentle but potent formula contains carefully sourced ingredients for sensitive and blemish-prone skin, including:
- Pineapple bromelain and papaya enzymes for a gentle exfoliation.
- Neem and kiwi extracts to calm and refresh the complexion.
- Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to strengthen the skin barrier.
What Is a Cleanser Used For?
A cleanser has multiple functions in skin care.
Removes Impurities
Cleansing primarily removes impurities from the skin’s surface. Depending on its formula, a cleanser eliminates dirt, pollutants, sweat, dead skin cells, and makeup. Waterproof makeup and very oily skin often require double cleansing, which consists of washing the face first with an oil-based cleanser and then with a water-based product.
Helps Manage Excess Oil
By eliminating excess oil, cleansers help keep the pores clear and reduce shine. Consistent cleansing with a suitable cleanser for your skin type helps to maintain a more radiant complexion and improves skin texture over time.
Unclogs Pores
Dirt, sweat, dead skin cells, and other impurities can clog pores, leading to acne and skin inflammation. Regular cleansing maintains clean pores and reduces acne breakouts.
Maintains Optimal Moisture Levels
Cleansers improve moisture levels by gently removing impurities and allowing hydrating ingredients in subsequent products to be absorbed more effectively. Specific cleanser formulations also deposit hydrating ingredients directly into the skin.
Improves Product Absorption
Excess oil, dirt, sweat, and other impurities can create a barrier on the skin’s surface, making it harder for skincare products to penetrate. Cleansing prepares the skin for serums and moisturizers, helping the even absorption of active ingredients and enhancing their effectiveness.
Note: Learn the differences between a cleanser and a toner, and whether to incorporate both products into your skincare routine.
How to Choose a Cleanser?
Choosing the right cleanser is crucial in maintaining a healthy skin barrier and achieving a glowing complexion. Here are key factors to consider.
1. Match the Cleanser to Your Skin Type
Check product labels to ensure it is formulated for your skin type. Different formulations are tailored for specific skin types.
- Oily or combination skin – Go for water-based gel or foaming cleansers.
- Blemish-prone skin – Exfoliating cleansers are a good choice.
- Dry and sensitive skin – Choose gel, cream, or oil-based cleansers for added hydration.
- Normal skin – A variety of cleansers, including gel, cream, foaming, and micellar water, will work well.
2. Choose a Clean Formula
So-called “clean” products are those that contain microbiome-friendly, soothing, and hydrating ingredients mostly derived from plants and other natural sources. Avoid harsh synthetic ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils. Substances to avoid are:
- Parabens
- Phthalates
- Sulfates
- Preservatives
- Silicones
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Synthetic fragrances
How to Use a Cleanser Properly?
The best way to use a cleanser depends on individual skin characteristics, including skin type and maturity, and the product’s formulation.
Most cleansers are used as described in this 4-step process:
- Wash your face with water.
- Dispense a small amount of cleanser on your hands and apply it on your face.
- Gently massage the face in circular motions to remove impurities.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Note that some cleansers, like balms, are applied on a dry face, and others, such as micellar water, don’t require rinsing.
Double Cleansing
Double cleansing is another popular method, especially for removing stubborn impurities, such as water-resistant makeup. The process consists of the following:
- Follow the 4-step cleansing process with an oil-based cleanser.
- Repeat the process with a water-based cleanser to ensure a thorough cleanse. 1.
How Often Should You Use a Cleanser?
Skin experts generally recommend cleansing twice daily: in the morning and before going to bed. However, cleansing frequency may vary depending on skin type, activity level, and individual needs. Refrain from excessive cleansing as it can strip natural oils and dry out the skin.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Face Cleanser?
Using an inappropriate facial cleanser can lead to various skin concerns. It can dry out the skin, increase sebum production, exacerbate acne, cause redness and irritation, and weaken the skin barrier.
To minimize these risks, carefully select your cleanser based on your skin type and choose a mild, pH-balanced, and fragrance-free product.
FAQ About a Cleanser
The information below will further help you on your path to creating a proper skincare routine - starting with the cleanser.
Is a Cleanser the Same as a Face Wash?
A face wash is a type of cleanser, and these terms are often used interchangeably. A face wash is a foaming, water-based cleanser that forms a rich lather when mixed with water. It is best used for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin.
A cleanser can be oil-based, non-foamy, and formulated for various skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.
Are a Cleanser and a Body Wash the Same?
A cleanser is an umbrella term for different cleansing and washing products. A body wash is a type of cleanser specifically designed for use on the body. It is typically a liquid product that may produce a rich lather, depending on its formulation. Many body washes also contain moisturizing ingredients to help prevent dryness.
Will a Cleanser Shrink Your Pores?
A cleanser won’t actually shrink the pores, but it can make them appear smaller. By keeping the pores clean and unclogged, a cleanser can improve skin texture and promote a smoother complexion, making pores less noticeable.
Conclusion
Understanding what a cleanser is and how to choose the right product is the foundation of an effective skincare routine. Whether you opt for a rich cleansing balm or a foaming gel formula, the goal is the same: clean and balanced skin ready for the rest of the skincare routine to do its job.
