Face Cleanser Vs Face Wash: The Right Pick for Your Skin!

When it comes to skincare routines and regimens, you are often told that choosing the correct toner, moisturiser and sunblock is enough for healthy skin. But here is where you are mistaken. The road to healthy and radiant skin goes way beyond toning and scrubbing. Instead, it is about getting your basics correct: face cleanser and face wash.

People often think that a face cleanser and face wash are the same, but they are widely different. Sure, they both work in the same way of removing excess oil and pollution, but the ‘how’ is not the same.

You know that washing your face is the first step of every skincare ritual. However, it is hard to pick what is best for your skin with a variety of cleansers available in the market. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the product you are using suits your skin, and we are here to help you with this.

Today we outline the subtle differences between a face cleanser and a face wash. This will help you incorporate these products into your skincare routine in a better way.

What is a Face Cleanser?

A facial cleanser removes traces of dirt, makeup and pollution from the skin. It also helps in preventing skin conditions such as acne by keeping the pores clear.

Most environmental pollutants are not water-soluble, so washing your face is not enough to remove them from the skin. Face cleansers remove sebum, excess oil and dead skin cells without damaging or irritating the skin.

What Does a Face Cleanser Do?

Face cleansers rid your skin of toxins and pollutants while hydrating and soothing your skin. They work cautiously by not ripping too much oil out of your skin. The normal pH balance of the skin is between 4.5-6.5. When you use a face cleanser, an interaction occurs between the skin’s moisture barrier, cleanser and pH of the skin.

Face cleansers are formulated with active ingredients to nourish the skin, balance complexion and also boost hydration levels

How to Choose a Face Cleanser?

Every skin type is unique and so are face cleansers. Today, there are cleansers for all skin types. However, with the plethora of choices, finding the perfect cleanser can be a little tough. Lucky for you, we have got you covered!

There are different textures for face cleansers. Knowing the difference is key to selecting the right cleanser for your skin type.

Gel Cleansers: They have a clear gel-like texture and consistency. They mostly work well for oily or acne-prone skin by exfoliating and removing excess oil.

Oil-Based Cleansers: Oil-based cleansers work best for almost all skin types. You can use this cleanser to loosen makeup and dirt, followed by a face wash to get it all off of your skin. In the end, your skin is clean, smooth and hydrated.

Foam Cleansers: These are a great option for people with oily and combination skin. These face cleansers are lightweight and the creamy formula lathers to make a rich foam when applied to the skin with water.

Clay Cleansers: Clay cleansers are quite popular. It is the perfect pick for all skin types. They help you clean clogged impurities from your skin, thus keeping your pores clean and hygienic.

Micellar Water: Micellar water is relatively new to the cleansing family but is becoming quite popular. It is a water-based cleanser with oil droplets or micelles that attract dirt and pollutants and can leave your skin clean with just one swipe.

Cream Cleanser: Cream cleansers are a rich cream-based formula that are suitable for both dry and sensitive skin. Cream cleansers are infused with moisture-locking ingredients that do not rip your skin off natural oils.

What is a Face Wash?

Like a face cleanser, a face wash removes dirt, oil, sebum and pollution from the face. A face wash is a water-based product that lathers when massaged onto your skin. Face washes have more astringent properties to fight excessive oil production.

It is important to choose a face wash that best suits your skin. Face wash refreshes your skin, brightens your skin complexion and also makes your skin smooth and soft.

What Does Face Wash Do?

The foaming action and the constant massaging from using a face wash stimulates blood circulation. It can also be extremely relaxing and therapeutic. Also, using a face wash removes debris from your skin, exposing a softer layer of the skin beneath.

However, most people find that face washes are too harsh for their skin. Also, extreme washing of the face can accidentally remove too much oil from the skin, thus leaving it dry and flaky. So, whenever you choose a face wash, note that it is a perfect fit for your skin type.

How to Choose a Face Wash?

Choosing a face wash depends on your skin type and texture. For example, people with oily and combination skin should prefer an active mineral clay face wash, that removes excess oil and nourishes the skin simultaneously.

People with dry skin type should opt-in for a gel face wash, as they are not too harsh on the skin and hydrates the skin. And, people with normal skin should go for a cream face wash. It hydrates the skin and also removes excessive pollutants.

Face Cleanser vs Face Wash

A face cleanser removes dirt and makeup from the skin surface, a face wash removes pollution from the deeper layers of the skin.

A face wash is less hydrating and moisturizing. On the other hand, a face cleanser moisturizes skin after removing excess oil from the skin. Therefore, it is more gentle on your skin than a face wash.

Conclusion: Should I Use a Face Wash or a Face Cleanser?

Both face cleansers and face wash work to remove impurities from your skin, but they benefit you depending on your skin type.

Face washes densely remove impurities from the deeper layers of your skin. Therefore, a face wash is well suited for oily and combination skin. People with dry and sensitive skin types should go with a face cleanser. Face cleansers are gentle on your skin and also hydrate your skin.