Types of Cleansers: Yeah, There is More Than One! Lauren PetrulloOct 11, 2022 Share 0 comments Have you ever thought about all the different types of cleansers on the market? I mean, really thought about it? There's foam, gel, cream, milk, oil...the list goes on and on. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which one is best for your skin type. Do you need foam or gel? A bar of soap or a cream? It's enough to make your head spin! But don’t worry! ! Today, we're breaking down all the different types of cleansers and helping you figure out which is best for your skin type without spending hundreds on random products. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn about your new favorite skincare product. The ABCs of Facial Cleansers A facial cleanser is a cornerstone of an effective skincare routine—essential for removing dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities from the skin. Cleansing is often the first step in your skincare regimen, setting the stage for the products that follow. To maximize your cleansing routine, remember to use lukewarm water, gently massage the cleanser into your skin for about 30 seconds, and rinse thoroughly for the best results. Not all facial cleansers are created equal; some are tailored for specific skin types, such as oily or dry skin. Others may not be suitable for everyday use. To help you navigate the options, here is a comprehensive breakdown of the various types of cleansers available: Oil-based cleansers Oil-based cleansers consist primarily of oils that effectively break down makeup and impurities on the skin, leaving it clean and refreshed. These are particularly adept at removing oil-based impurities such as sebum, sunscreen, and makeup. Here are some of our favorite types of oil-based cleansers: Cream cleanser or cleansing milk Cream cleansers and cleansing milks usually contain nourishing oils that emulsify dirt and makeup for easy rinsing. Unlike lighter foaming or gel cleansers, cream cleansers have a rich texture that hydrates the skin, thanks to moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. You'll often find cream cleansers in jar or pump packaging, and they can be applied using a cotton pad or directly to the face. Cleansing balm Cleansing balms are solid cleansers typically made with a blend of natural oils and butters. They effectively dissolve makeup and grime. Used dry, they can serve as the first step in a double-cleansing routine or as a standalone cleanser. To use a cleansing balm, massage it onto your skin in circular motions; the warmth of your skin will soften the balm, effectively lifting away impurities. Facial Cleanser Facial Cleanser Radiance Cleansing Balm Sale price$19.00 Add to Cart Now Oil cleanser For those with oily or acne-prone skin, using oil might sound counterintuitive. However, oil cleansers can effectively dislodge dirt and impurities without causing excessive dryness. They are excellent for removing stubborn waterproof makeup and are often the first step in a two-step cleansing process. Oil cleansers typically contain natural oils such as jojoba or olive oil. Here’s how they work: by massaging oil into your skin, it breaks down dirt and makeup, which can be easily rinsed away with water. Facial Cleanser Facial Cleanser Real Art Perfect Cleansing Oil Sale price$24.00 Add to Cart Now Water-based cleansers Water-based cleansers consist primarily of, you guessed it, water! They provide a refreshing alternative to oil-based products. While lighter and more refreshing, they may not be as effective for breaking down heavy makeup or oil-based sunscreens. Here are some favorites among water-based cleansers: Foam cleanser Foam cleansers create a delightful lather, leaving your skin feeling refreshed. They utilize surfactants, which bind to oil and dirt, allowing them to be rinsed away effortlessly. Typically dispensed from pump bottles, foam cleansers are applied by mixing with water and massaging onto the face to create a foam. Facial Cleanser Facial Cleanser Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam Sale price$19.00 Add to Cart Now Facial Cleanser Facial Cleanser Collagen Cleansing Foam Sale price$14.00 Add to Cart Now Gel cleanser Gel cleansers offer a deep cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. They often contain active ingredients suspended in a light gel base, which penetrates deep into pores to break down impurities. Typically refreshing and cooling, gel cleansers are ideal for morning use or after workouts. Look for ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera to keep the skin hydrated during cleansing. Cleansing wipes Facial cleansing wipes present the fastest way to cleanse on the go. Simply wipe the cloth over your face, and makeup, dirt, and oil vanish in an instant. These wipes contain a cleansing solution, which can vary from simple water to astringents or exfoliating agents, and they’re available in various materials like cotton, silk, or bamboo. However, they may lack the thorough cleansing power of traditional methods and shouldn't replace a full cleanser and water routine. That said, they remain a convenient option. Cleansing Wipes Cleansing Wipes Biore Makeup Remover Facial Wipes Sale price$10.00 Add to Cart Now Cleansing Wipes Cleansing Wipes Rice Water Bright Cleansing Wipes Sale price$14.00 Add to Cart Now Clay cleanser Clay cleansers feature clay and water, utilizing its absorbent properties to remove excess oil and impurities. Common varieties like bentonite, kaolin, and French green clay provide antiseptic and exfoliating benefits. Often part of a double cleansing routine, they follow oil-based cleansers to eliminate any residual impurities while offering gentle exfoliation through clay particles. To use a clay cleanser, gently massage onto wet skin in circular motions, rinse with warm water, and follow with your usual skincare regimen. Micellar cleansers Micellar cleansers have become a favorite in the beauty community. These gentle yet effective formulations consist of micelles: tiny oil balls that attract and trap dirt and makeup. Apply a few drops onto a cotton pad, sweep across the face, and there's no rinsing required! The water in the formula loosens impurities while the oil nourishes and hydrates. Micellar Cleanser Micellar Cleanser The Chok Chok Green Tea Cleansing Water Sale price$8.00 Regular price$16.00 Add to Cart Now Powder cleansers Powder cleansers are trending in skincare! These cleansing agents come in powder form; to use, simply add water to create a lather and apply as needed. Often formulated with skin-loving ingredients like fruit enzymes and clay, they leave your complexion radiant and refreshed. The Best Cleanser Depending on Your Skin Type With a myriad of facial cleansers available, choosing the right one for your skin type is crucial to avoid wasting time on ineffective products. Here's a guide tailored to your skin type for selecting the ideal cleanser: Best facial cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin Finding the right cleanser for oily or acne-prone skin can be tricky. A cleanser that's too harsh may strip natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation, while a gentle cleanser may leave your skin overly oily. Here are some types that strike the necessary balance: Oil-based cleansers Believe it or not, oil-based cleansers can melt away stubborn impurities without dehydrating the skin. Look for formulations that use non-comedogenic oils to prevent breakouts, followed by a water-based cleanser to tackle water-based impurities like sweat. Clay cleansers Clay cleansers are perfect for absorbing excess oil and gently exfoliating the skin, making them excellent for daily use on oily skin. Gel and foam cleansers Often containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, gel or foam cleansers efficiently eliminate excess oil and acne-causing bacteria without being overly harsh. Extra tip: Always check labels for comedogenic ingredients if you have oily or acne-prone skin to avoid breakouts! Facial Cleanser Facial Cleanser Natural 90% Olive Cleansing Oil Sale price$25.00 Add to Cart Now Best facial cleanser for sensitive skin Individuals with sensitive skin know how challenging it can be to find an appropriate cleanser. Many contain harsh ingredients that lead to irritation or dryness, while others may lack effective cleansing power. Here's what to look for: Cream cleanser Creamy cleansers effectively remove makeup and impurities yet are gentle enough to avoid stripping the skin. They’re particularly suited for sensitive complexions as they won’t disrupt your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Micellar cleanser Micellar cleansers use microscopic micelles to attract impurities, rendering them great for sensitive skin. With no alcohol or fragrances, they offer a gentle cleansing option. Gel cleanser Gel cleansers are another suitable choice for sensitive skin due to providing gentle hydration and a refreshing cleanse. Foam cleanser If you favor a foaming cleanser, ensure it’s free of harsh sulfates. Look for milder surfactants such as coco-glucoside or lauryl glucoside for a non-irritating experience. Best cleanser for combination skin Finding the right cleanser for combination skin can be complex due to its dual nature. While many oily cleansers function well, here are more specific recommendations: Powder cleanser Gentle powder cleansers are excellent for combination skin because they avoid excess drying and do not contain comedogenic ingredients that clog pores. Gel and foaming cleansers Opt for a gel or foam cleanser specifically formulated for your skin type, featuring non-comedogenic and oil-controlling ingredients while remaining moisturizing. Clay cleansers These can absorb excess oil without overdrying the skin; choose gentle varieties like kaolin. Oil cleansers Oil cleansers can effectively cleanse without adding oil back to the skin, ensuring that you achieve a balanced complexion. Facial Cleanser Facial Cleanser Milky Piggy 24k Gold Snail Cleansing Foam Sale price$18.00 Add to Cart Now Facial Cleanser Facial Cleanser Softymo White Treatment Facial Oil Sale price$12.00 Add to Cart Now Best cleanser for dry skin Those with dry skin often struggle with tightness and flakiness, making it crucial to choose a cleanser that caters to hydration: Cream or milk cleanser Opt for creams containing not just cleansing oils but also hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to retain moisture. Cleansing balm Balm cleansers dissolve makeup and impurities without compromising skin hydration, making them great for dry skin. Best cleanser for normal skin If you have normal skin, you have the flexibility to explore various cleansers. However, consider these tips: Avoid harsh or irritating cleansers: These will strip your skin of its necessary oils, causing increased oil production and leading to breakouts. Opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleansers: Your aim is to cleanse without irritation. Test the product on the back of your hand; if harsh, consider a gentler option. Choose cleansers according to your specific concerns: If you’re concerned about aging, select products with anti-aging components like vitamin C, or for a brighter complexion, opt for those featuring niacinamide. Cleansers: Where to Find the Best and Final Recommendations Now that you know what is the best cleanser for your skin, I have one last thing to tell you: if you have oily skin and still want to use a micellar cleanser, or if you have sensitive skin and are already using clay cleansers, DON’T WORRY! You don’t need to get rid of what you want or have! The most important thing is that you learn what works for your skin and what doesn’t. So, as general rules: Stay away from comedogenic ingredients if you have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. Check the labels for fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free, harsh chemicals-free cleansers for sensitive skin Go for cleansers with moisturizing ingredients if you have dry skin. All in all, you can use whatever cleanser you like as long as you respect those rules! And, if you are ready to try on some new cleansers or are a newbie looking for the best cleanser to get healthy skin, here at Asian Beauty Essentials you find everything from oil-based to water-based cleansers from the best Korean brands. So don’t waste any more time and get the best new addition to your skincare routine today. Share Previous articleNext article Leave a commentAll comments are moderated before being published Name Email Content Post comment Follow us