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Dermatological Analysis: Best Facial Cleansers

At the end of a long day, the best thing you can do for your skin is to perform a deep cleaning to remove all traces of dirt, sweat and makeup; and so let it breathe, repair and renew.

Regular cleansing of the skin is very important to maintaining beautiful and healthy skin , so never go to bed without washing your face and removing all makeup!

Plus, having a flawless surface also helps other skincare products penetrate more deeply, and do their jobs more efficiently.

But finding the best cleanser for your skin type can be challenging, especially since the long-term effects are not immediately apparent.

Yes, your skin will feel instantly fresh, clean, and smooth, but in the long run, cleansers should be a important part of your anti-aging facial care regimen .

They work hard to fight aging and reverse the daily effects of makeup and dirt on the skin – results that won’t be seen until much later.

Fortunately, we are here to help you! A good cleaner starts with good ingredients. And that is what we are going to look at to determine which is the best cleaner on the market.

That is why we have analyzed the INCI (list of ingredients) of the most popular cleansers, and the ones with the best ratings and, depending on their composition, we decide if they are worth it or not, choosing only the best for your skin and your health.

In this entry are the complete analyzes of the two best options; of the rest there is a summary and a link to access the full analysis.

The analysis is done by explaining one by one the ingredients of the formula, what is its function, benefits and possible side effects; although if the ingredient is already explained in another analysis, I simply put the link so that you can read it, and that it does not become so long and repetitive.

And now, keep reading our guide to the best facial cleansers on the market.

The 11 Best Facial Cleansers

  • Nezeni Cosmetics All-in-1 Micellar Water
  • Bioderma Sébium Moussant Gel
  • Nordic Detox Black Soap by Natura Siberica
  • Eve Lom Cleanser
  • Bio Beauté by Nuxe Rebalancing Exfoliating Cleansing Cream
  • Zelens Z Detox Clarifying Foaming Cleanser
  • Eucerin Dermopure Oil Control Facial Cleansing Gel
  • A-Derma PhysAC Purifying Cleansing Gel
  • Vichy Pureté Thermale Fresh Cleansing Gel
  • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Water Cleanser
  • Garnier Pure Active Sensitive Anti-Blemish Non-Soap Cleaner

Nezeni Cosmetics All-in-1 Micellar Water

Buy on the laboratory’s website

We have chosen a micellar water as the best cleanser for the skin due to the adaptability of the Nezeni Cosmetics product.

Its mild surfactant in the form of micelles traps dirt, impurities and makeup residue that may be on your complexion to leave it effortlessly clean and fresh.

But in addition to being a great cleanser, it is also a great make-up remover (for the face and eyes), it serves to tone the skin and we are not going to say that it replaces a moisturizer, although it does provide extra hydration to the complexion after use.

For this, it only uses natural ingredients, such as aloe vera juice, and botanical extracts (apple, ginger, oats) and salicylic acid. This is your full INCI:

We are not going to analyze all the ingredients this time, as they are already explained in the article with the Best Micellar Waters , although if you can tell you that it is amazing . From INCI I am going to highlight the presence of natural and functional ingredients.

It is not limited to including a moisturizer, micelles and little else; Instead, it is committed to achieving the best version of your skin by pampering it with ingredients that reveal its potential. Aloe vera is a great moisturizer and regenerator , suitable for all skin types. Apple extract increases regeneration and circulation in the area.

Ginger extract repairs the skin’s defenses and increases firmness so that the skin is firmer and protected from harmful pollutants. The oat extract works as a biocompatible film on the skin, leaving it tighter and firmer , as well as conditioning. While salicylic acid removes dead cells, it exfoliates and removes all impurities from the pores.

But without a doubt, what we like the most is that it uses a minimum of preservatives, which helps prevent the accumulation of harmful compounds that can cause harmful damage in the future and with constant use of cosmetics.

It has 2 years of expiration even when the product is closed, and you can use it as many times as you want, both on the face and on the body, as it does not dry out or leave the skin tight. The best to cleanse your skin.

You just have to wipe a cotton ball soaked in micellar water all over your face and eyes to loosen the dirt. No need to scrub, drag, or rinse. With the greatest softness in the world, your skin will be completely clean in a few strokes.

Bioderma Sébium Moussant Gel

Bioderma Daily Cleansing Gel works to remove excess oil, deeply cleansing acne-prone skin. Although thanks to its mild ingredients, it is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

This lightweight cleanser also helps clear clogged pores, preventing future breakouts or blemishes.

Purifies the skin with a combination of zinc and copper sulfates that give the product a beautiful natural blue color. Combined with a patented natural complex to increase skin tolerance, and a pH of 5.5, ideal for balancing the skin.

Leaves skin clean, shine-free and with a very comfortable feeling. And with continued use, you’ll notice less flaky skin, and fewer clogged pores. The quality of the skin is greatly improved.

The formula is soap and alcohol free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. It can also be used by men as a shaving cream.

Bioderma’s formula is the most successful of all that we have analyzed. It starts with two mild surfactants, which will be responsible for removing all the dirt and that make just one drop of this gel is enough to wash the entire face, when massaged into damp skin.

Then there are various moisturizers, and an anti-inflammatory and calming agent, to hydrate the skin and make it soothing for oily skin.

Sebium also contains zinc sulfate, a common ingredient in cleansers for its astringent and antimicrobial properties, and copper sulfate, another antibacterial that can increase collagen and elastin synthesis.

Without a doubt, one of the best ingredients is ginkgo biloba extract, an active ingredient that has several beneficial properties, acting as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, depigmenting and promoting the creation of collagen.

Lactic acid is an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) that is responsible for gently exfoliating the skin, achieving a more uniform texture, and completely cleaning open pores.

The last ingredient mentioned is perfume, which I must say is very nice. The cleanser smells like fresh cucumber, an appropriate scent, as it creates the feeling that you’ve been pampering yourself all day in the spa.

I only put two drawbacks to the formula, which are the final two ingredients that can be potentially irritating. Fortunately, they are in a very low proportion, and their effect will be minimal.

I like that it does not include any harmful ingredients, no parabens, or alcohol. Thus we avoid the combined effect of adding small amounts of harmful ingredients with all the cosmetics that we put on throughout the day.

For all this, I believe that Bioderma cleanser is the best option for sensitive, oily or combination skin. It also has moisturizing agents that can benefit dry skin, and a couple of ingredients work by increasing collagen creation, so it also counts as an anti-aging aid.

Nordic Detox Black Soap by Natura Siberica

Natura Siberica has carefully studied and collected the ancient recipes of the northern peoples, and they have used them to prepare a unique natural product.

The formula contains activated charcoal, a highly absorbent ingredient that has the ability to draw impurities from deep within the skin.

It is also enriched with unique, skin-friendly wild berries and herbs, harvested in northern Siberia.

Packed with unique properties, northern herbs and berries have been known to be rich in valuable oils and vitamins since ancient times. Northerners have traditionally used them to create medicinal teas and elixirs that help preserve health, vitality, and youth.

The product comes with a black sponge for easy application, you are supposed to wet the sponge and use it to remove the soap and apply on the face.

After use, the skin is brighter and more radiant. The cleaning is really deep, and it does not dry out or irritate the skin.

  • Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate : The end product of the hydrolyzation of starch, a polysaccharide carbohydrate. This corn-derived ingredient works as a moisturizer and film former.
  • Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate : Tested in Monroe London Night Recovery Serum
  • Stearic Acid : Analyzed in Fiori di Cipria’s anti-wrinkle cream for men .
  • CI 77266 : Also called carbon black, it is a black colorant that consists essentially of fine particles of pure carbon.
  • Parfum .
  • Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil : Oil from the pulp of the sea buckthorn berry. It has a unique composition of fatty acids: 65% is a combination of the rare Omega-7 (also known as palmitoleic acid) and palmitic acid. The fatty acids give the oil a pleasant moisturizing and protective capacity for the skin. But that’s not all, it also contains antioxidants, vitamin E (in multiple forms), antioxidant pigments (and orange), beta-carotene and lycopene, as well as beta-sitosterol, which softens and replenishes the skin.
  • Pinus Sibirica Seed Oil : Analyzed in the Eagle Look eye contour from Natura Siberica as Pinus Sibirica Seed Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters.
  • Hippophae Rhamnoidesamidopropyl Betaine : It is a mixture of organic compounds derived from the oil of the pulp of the sea buckthorn berry, and dimethylaminopropyl amine, and is used as a surfactant in personal care products.
  • Pinus Sibirica Needle Extract : Same as the Pinus Sibirica Seed Oil ingredient, discussed above.
  • Pineamidopropyl Betaine : It is a mixture of organic compounds derived from the oil of the pineapple of the Siberian pine, and dimethylaminopropylamine, and is used as a surfactant in personal care products.
  • Picea Obovata Needle Extract : Analyzed in the Eagle Look eye contour from Natura Siberica .
  • Abies Sibirica Needle Extract : Extract from the needles of the Siberian fir, with properties similar to the previous ingredient.
  • Schizandra Chinensis Fruit Extract : Schisandra berry extract has been used for decades in Chinese medicine to promote general wellness and vitality when taken orally. It is high in lignans and particularly in schisandrine, which has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a great anti-pollution ingredient.
  • Linum Usitatissimum Seed Oil : Analyzed in Jack Black’s Protein Booster Skin Serum .
  • Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil: Raspberry seed oil, highly moisturizing and emollient, with a characteristic fruity aroma. It contains high amounts of alpha and gamma tocopherols (Vitamin E), polyphenols and Vitamin C. It is also rich in Vitamin A and contains up to 83% of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Raspberry oil has more pronounced anti-inflammatory properties than avocado, grapeseed, hazelnut, and wheat germ oils, and it may prove to be the most effective oil for treating eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. Due to a high level of vitamin A, it can also be beneficial in oily and acne skin. Its strong antioxidant, nourishing and healing properties, along with a stable shelf life, make it an attractive ingredient for many types of skin care products.
  • Rubus Chamaemorus Fruit Extract : Analyzed in Jack Black’s Protein Booster Skin Serum .
  • Betula Alba Juice : Analyzed in the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye contour as Betula Alba (Birch) Extract.
  • Vaccinium Myrtillus Seed Oil : Analizado en la crema antiarrugas LiftActiv Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizing Care of Vichy Male como Vaccinium Myrtillus Extract / Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract.
  • Benzyl Alcohol : Tested in Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .
  • Dehydroacetic Acid : Analyzed in the Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .
  • Potassium Sorbate : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
  • Sodium Benzoate : Analyzed in the Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .

The best of the formula are the botanical extracts and oils, which provide such beneficial properties as hydration, protection, antioxidation, anti-inflammation or astringency; which makes it a suitable cleanser for all skin types.

The perfume is evident as soon as you open the product, it smells good, but it can be too much for some sensitive noses. The ingredient list mentions “parfum”, but I’m not sure it’s a natural fragrance as it doesn’t mention the source.

It is also clear that they use coloring, as the product is completely black. And coloring, along with perfume, are the two most problematic ingredients on the list, in the sense that they can irritate. Unfortunately, at the top of the list.

But it is a cleaner that does not include harmful or toxic ingredients, or harmful preservatives, something that must also be valued.

Eve Lom Cleanser

Eve Lom’s popular cleaner gives one lime and one sand. It has great emollient and nutritious ingredients, such as cocoa butter or lanolin; and 4 aromatic oils that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and purifying properties.

However, it also has a couple of irritating ingredients, a possible sensitizer, and a harmful preservative, on a pretty short list; which means that these are in a large proportion.

Sensitive skin can have a problem with irritants, and there is also a risk of the combined effect, which is why it is an option I try to avoid.

You can enter the full technical analysis in the following article: Cleanser by Eve Lom, Analysis and Alternative .

Bio Beauté by Nuxe Rebalancing Exfoliating Cleansing Cream

This formula is loaded with naturally derived ingredients, a statement that is not to say it does not include any harmful ingredients, such as a couple of irritants, perfume, and irritating fragrances.

As active ingredients it includes sunflower oil, shea butter, chondrus crispus, and salicylic acid, because although it has hyaluronic acid hydrolyzing, its proportion is minimal and it will have hardly any effect.

Despite including the cranberry extract as a claim on the packaging, this ingredient is practically at the bottom of the list, so they are giving us a hoot.

You can enter the full technical analysis in the following article: Bio Beauté by Nuxe Rebalancing Exfoliating Cleansing Cream, Analysis and Alternative .

Zelens Z Detox Clarifying Foaming Cleanser

The composition of the Zelens cleanser is a varied mixture of cleansing, exfoliating, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and moisturizing ingredients, in a good proportion.

It is perfect for all skin types, but especially for greasy and mixed skin, since it has neither soap nor oil, and its AHA. Still, due to certain toxic and sensitizing ingredients, it may not be recommended for the most sensitive skin types.

It has a large number of preservatives (some of them toxic and irritating), and the perfume is not for all skin types.

You can enter the full technical analysis in the following article: Z Detox Clarifying Foaming Cleanser by Zelens, Analysis and Alternative .

Eucerin Dermopure Oil Control Facial Cleansing Gel

Although the name of the cleanser implies that it helps control excess oil, its ingredients do not include any active ingredient that can do this.

Beyond surfactants and exfoliants, it does not have any other ingredient that can solve the various problems faced by oily and blemished skin, the skin for which this cleanser is intended.

It has no bad ingredients (just an irritant and sensitizer), but it falls short of benefits. There are other, better, more complete options.

You can enter the full technical analysis in the following article: Eucerin Dermopure Oil Control Facial Cleansing Gel, Analysis and Alternative .

A-Derma PhysAC Purifying Cleansing Gel

It is a cleaner that is not bad, but that could be more complete, incorporating more varied assets. Most are surfactants, so it is clear that it will remove dirt easily, but there is a lack of hydrating and soothing agents that can repair oily skin that is also sensitive.

The assets it has are in a low concentration, so its benefits are going to be limited.

And while it is not a bad cleaner, it is not one that I would choose, simply because it could be put to better use, and there are better options.

You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: A-Derma PhysAC Purifying Cleansing Gel, Analysis and Alternative .

Vichy Pureté Thermale Fresh Cleansing Gel

This facial cleanser is the perfect option for normal or dry skin, it is very balanced, forms enough lather, and does not leave skin dry.

It has mild surfactants, moisturizing agents and antioxidants, which help protect the skin from pollutants and external aggressions.

Vichy thermal water also helps soothe these irritated skin. Sadly, you’re not getting rid of Phenoxyethanol, a toxic and irritating preservative, and perfume doesn’t do you any good either.

You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Vichy Pureté Thermale Cleansing Fresh Gel, Analysis and Alternative .

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Water Cleanser

The Neutrogena option is full of surfactants that do not benefit the skin at all, as most can be mildly toxic, drying or irritating.

As active ingredients, it only has hyaluronic acid, which is a great moisturizer, and Polyquaternium-10, which acts as a barrier, protecting the skin from external pollutants.

But I think there are not enough benefits to counteract the effects of the other problem ingredients. So it wouldn’t be an option for me.

You can enter the full technical analysis in the following article: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Water Cleaner, Analysis and Alternative .

Garnier Pure Active Sensitive Anti-Blemish Non-Soap Cleaner

Garnier is the ideal product for those who do not want to spend too much on their cleanser, but this savings is evident in the ingredients, which leave much to be desired.

It’s made for sensitive acne-prone skin, but it includes drying and irritating ingredients like alcohol, perfume, and other toxic and irritating agents, so I don’t think it’s good for any skin type.

One of the advertised ingredients, which is one of the most beneficial, zinc, is at the bottom of the list, so its addition is of little use. In short: there are better options.

You can enter the full technical analysis in the following article: Garnier Pure Active Sensitive Anti-blemish Soap-Free Cleaner, Analysis and Alternative .

The role of cleansers in skin care

Cleaning is the most basic and important part of any skincare routine, as skin cells are constantly being renewed, and these dead cells remain on the surface , accumulating impurities.

In addition, throughout the day, the skin of the face is continuously exposed to bacteria, pollutants, sweat, oil, dirt, makeup and other microorganisms.

Proper cleaning will help us reduce the accumulation of these unwanted substances, a critical part of general hygiene.

Along with the moisturizer, it is also an important factor in helping the skin maintain an adequate level of hydration. Dehydrated skin looks and feels rough, wrinkled, and aged, something we don’t want.

Cleansing also helps to control the PH levels of the skin , allowing adequate retention of water and moisturizer.

What if you stopped washing your face completely? The pores will become clogged, leading to the development of severe acne. The skin can also experience a combination of severe redness, dryness, and irritation from lack of hydration. Lastly, the skin would look dirty, greasy, grimy and very aged.

Most likely, you would develop a persistent itch, to the point where you would have to constantly scratch your face. This could lead to breaks in the skin, which are the entry points for infection.

The moral of the story: do a proper skin cleansing on a regular basis!

What exactly does a cleaner do?

The main function of a cleanser is to remove dirt, sweat, pollution, dead cells and excess oil that are accumulated on the skin, so that they can be easily removed with water.

It is also useful for removing makeup and sunscreen, as these oily substances cannot be removed effectively with just one rinse.

It does this with the help of surfactants, chemical ingredients that have the unique ability to bond oil-based things with water-based things.

Although it is not an exfoliant itself, a cleanser also helps exfoliate the upper cells of the skin, without damaging it. Refreshes the skin and gives the complexion a chance to breathe.

A suitable cleanser cleans the pores of debris, to avoid the accumulation of dirt, allowing the natural oil of our skin to reach the surface without impediments; thus decreasing the chances of an outbreak.

It also creates a clean base so you can apply other products effectively, like moisturizer or makeup.

Each skin type has different needs, so there is no single type of cleanser. There are face wash formulas suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone, combination, dry, oily, and even rosacea.

Are makeup removers and cleansers the same?

Make-up removers should not be confused (or replaced) with cleansers. True to their name, makeup removers are beneficial for removing foundation, blush, concealer, eye shadow, and other cosmetics from the surface of the skin.

Makeup removers can be found in different textures and formulations, but the best ones are those that can completely remove makeup, without removing natural oils from the skin.

Cleansers, as we’ve seen, are used to remove dirt, sweat, oil, and other impurities that clog pores on the skin’s surface, before they have a chance to mix with bacteria and wreak havoc.

Cleansers are available in different shapes, sizes, and textures, including foams, gels, oils, creams, balms, and scrubs.

Your skin type and your needs should help you choose which type of cleanser to use, as some are better suited to certain skin types than others.

Bottom line: makeup removers remove makeup, and cleansers remove everything else, including makeup residue.

To get the best out of both products, it is advisable to follow a double cleaning method, which ensures that all traces of dirt and makeup are removed from the skin’s surface.

This is especially beneficial if you tend to wear heavy makeup on a daily basis. To follow the technique, start by using the makeup remover, and once you have removed the makeup from the skin, continue with the cleanser to remove all impurities.

What kinds of cleaners are there?

With so many cleaning options available, and with each touting different benefits, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and swayed by false marketing claims.

Knowing the difference between each type of cleaner will allow you to filter your options, and make finding the perfect cleaner that much easier.

Facial cleansers come in different shapes and textures; some cleaners require rinsing, while others can be applied with just a cotton ball. That is why it is useful to choose the one that best suits your skin type and lifestyle.

Cleansing gels

They are transparent and, as the name suggests, have a jelly-like consistency , but once mixed with water, they become foamy. They are generally designed to achieve a deep clean and leave a refreshing sensation.

They are effective in unclogging pores, removing excess oil and eliminating acne-causing bacteria , thanks to their antiseptic and exfoliating properties.

Its main components are surfactants (an ingredient that breaks down oils, binds to them, and allows them to rinse off with water), controversial ingredients.

IDEAL FOR: Oily and combination skin.

Cleansing milks or lotions

They’ve had a resurgence recently, especially from Korean and Japanese brands, though they used to be the cleaners of choice in the early 1900s, when there were no surfactant-based cleaners, just harsh soaps.

Whereas in the past cleansing milks were highly alkaline due to ingredients like triethanolamine, today most are emulsified with milder surfactants, and are super safe and gentle on the skin .

Their consistency is thick and creamy, and they contain moisturizing, softening and nourishing ingredients, which deeply benefit dry skin.

They gently cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils and without drying it out. And they usually don’t contain potentially irritating ingredients, like fragrances, dyes, or alcohol.

IDEAL FOR: Dry and sensitive skin.

Cleansing foams or mousses

Foam or mousse cleansers are light . They can come straight out of the pump as a foam, or they can start as a gel or cream, and then turn into a mousse once mixed with water.

In the case of the latter, this is how most gel cleansers work, so calling them “foam facial cleansers” is really just a marketing option.

This type of cleanser removes excess oil just as effectively as gel cleansers.

IDEAL FOR: Oily and combination skin.

Cleaning oils

Washing your skin with oil can sound counterintuitive, especially if you have oily skin; but most experts disagree.

An oil-based cleanser is a gentle way to remove pore-clogging debris , including the toughest makeup, without drying out your skin. This makes it an ultra-gentle formula that cleanses without dehydrating or compromising the skin.

Although they are ideal for dry, sensitive or dehydrated skin, I would also not hesitate to recommend them to oily, combination or acne prone skin.

IDEAL FOR: Most skin types.

Cleaning clays

Known for their absorbent power, clay cleansers purify the skin by removing excess oil and toxins from the pores.

IDEAL FOR: Oily and combination skin.

Micellar waters

Originally from France, micellar waters are makeup removers and cleansers at the same time . They are made up of “micelles” (small oil molecules suspended in soft water), which trap grease, dirt and makeup.

They are very mild cleansers capable of keeping the epidermis intact. It is not necessary to rinse it with water. They come in liquid form, so all you have to do is soak a cotton pad in it, and apply it to your face to remove the accumulation of the day.

Micellar water is made with the same type of surfactants that you see in a gel cleanser, although since micellar water stays on the skin, only the mildest surfactants are used, you will never see SLS in a micellar water formula.

IDEAL FOR: Dry and sensitive skin.

Soap cleaners

Whether it’s African black soap, Chimbo, Dr. Bronner’s, or any other soap-based facial cleanser, it’s best to stay away from them.

Any soap-based product, whether bar or liquid, will have an alkaline pH (usually between 9 and 11, which is absurdly high).

Washing your skin with an alkaline cleanser (i.e. soap) on a regular basis will totally remove the pH of your skin and make it much more susceptible to all kinds of problems, from dehydration to acne to irritation.

IDEAL FOR: No skin type.

Powdered cleaners

Powdered cleaners are not a new product, but they are now at their peak. They are gentle powders (often made from a mixture of clays) that, when dissolved in water, turn into a creamy concoction that can thoroughly cleanse the skin, while providing a gentle exfoliation.

They’re a fun innovation that’s definitely worth trying, and they can work for any skin type. Just keep in mind that they can be a bit more abrasive and exfoliating than more traditional facial cleansers.

Ideal for all skin types.

Stick cleaners

After years of being away from skincare, bars or lozenges are slowly being used again.

These new cleansing bars contain very little soap (others do not) and are just as gentle on the skin as their liquid counterparts .

They also offer more skin-friendly pH levels, plus highly hydrating and nutrient-dense ingredients like glycerin and essential oils.

They are a greener option than liquid cleaners, as packaging materials (mainly paper and cardboard) break down more easily than plastic packaging.

IDEAL FOR: Oily and combination skin.

Exfoliating cleanser

Using an exfoliating cleanser is a great way to remove dead cells and excess oil from your skin. They generally have mild exfoliating agents, which help to cleanse the pores, the surface of the skin and make the complexion look smoother.

IDEAL FOR: Oily and combination skin.

Cleaning Cloths, Gloves and Cleaning Sponges

There are cleaning wipes, and then there are cleaning cloths, gloves, and sponges. These cleansers are made with special fibers (some are plant-based and do not require the use of any traditional cleanser) to thoroughly remove impurities, while removing dead skin cells.

Examples are muslin fabrics, kessa gloves, and konjac sponges.

IDEAL FOR: Oily and combination skin

A cleanser for every skin type

When it comes to choosing any skin care product, you always have to keep your skin type in mind.

Normal and combination skin

If your skin is not too dry or too oily, you just need to keep it in balance, clean and healthy. For this, any type of facial cleanser can work ; With the exception of soap-based cleansers (with a high pH) and gel cleansers with strong surfactants, which can strip your skin of its natural oils and dehydrate it.

Gentle gel cleansers, milks or lotions, oil-based cleansers, and all other types of cleansers will probably do an excellent job – you just have to decide which one you like best.

Dry or dehydrated skin

Dry skin cleansers not only cleanse the skin, they also hydrate it. If your skin is dry, tight, your cleanser should be rich in emollient and moisturizing ingredients, ingredients that will provide complete hydration, and leave it feeling soft.

These ingredients include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, botanical oils, and fatty acids. These ingredients are commonly present in cleansing milks or lotions, although oil cleansers can work as well.

Avoid strong surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), as well as soap-based cleansers, and those with alcohol, which can further dry out the skin.

Oily or acne skin

People with oily or acne-prone skin tend to over-cleanse their skin with harsh products, which ends up dehydrating the skin, making it much more susceptible to acne.

Instead, it’s best to use mild facial cleansers that don’t further irritate the skin, but still do a good job of breaking down and removing excess oil .

Also, for acne-prone skin, a lower pH cleanser is of utmost importance to prevent breakouts and keep skin healthy.

Gentle gel cleansers or a less irritating foam cleanser work well for these skin types; although even cleansing milks or lotions can work well to break down fat.

And because facial cleanser doesn’t stay (or at least shouldn’t) on the skin for very long, whatever anti-acne ingredient it contains isn’t going to have a huge impact on the skin.

Acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or benzoyl peroxide are most helpful in products that stay on the skin, like blemish treatments, serums, and lotions.

Skin with eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea

Avoid bar soaps, as they are drying and irritating to people with eczema. Use mild soap-free cleansers that are less prone to irritation.

People with psoriasis suffer from dry skin, so a mild cleanser that respects the integrity of the skin is recommended.

People with rosacea have extremely sensitive skin in the facial area. It is advisable that they choose mild, fragrance-free products as they are often allergy triggers.

What to look for in a facial cleanser?

A good feeling on the skin

Many people with oily skin or acne expect their skin to feel tight and dry after using a face cleanser. But in reality, this feeling is an indicator that the cleanser you are using is not the right one.

If the skin is tight, it means that it has been stripped of all the things it needs to be healthy, strong and protected, like the natural oils of the skin, and it is a sign that the protective barrier of the skin has been compromised.

This feeling of discomfort is an indicator that the skin is dehydrated and unprotected , making it more susceptible to bacterial infections (yes, it is now more susceptible to acne), sensitivity, irritation and premature aging.

So what feeling should a cleanser leave behind? The right product leaves the skin comfortable, fresh and even slightly hydrated. The skin will undoubtedly be completely clean, but it will also be healthy and strong.

A low pH

The ideal pH of the skin is between 4.5 and 5.5. With this pH, it is easier for our skin to function well, since it is not an environment conducive to bacteria surviving.

In contrast, the higher the pH, the more likely bacteria are to proliferate, causing acne, infections, along with irritation, dehydration, and sensitivity.

Cleaners with too high a pH (above 5.6) are the biggest culprits in causing skin damage. So when choosing a facial cleanser, always opt for one that has a low pH .

Brands don’t usually advertise the pH of their products on the packaging, but you can always check it yourself with a test strip or email them asking.

The best ingredients

Not all facial cleansers live up to expectations. That is why the list of ingredients is the most important part of a cosmetic, because by reading it we can determine if they fulfill the purposes announced by the manufacturer.

To make sure you’re getting the best out of your facial cleanser, it’s time to dig deeper into what you use to remove makeup, dirt, and oil that can build up on your face, and even prevent your other products from working their best. . possible way.

SURFACTANTS

Surfactants or surfactants are the basis of many facial cleansers because these ingredients are responsible for binding the particles of dirt, grease and other residues on the skin, to be able to trap them and remove them with rinsing.

Some of the more common surfactants are: sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), ammonium laureth sulfate, stearic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, oleic acid (oleic acid) or palmitic acid (palmitic acid).

Surely, among all of them, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is the most common, since this is the most controversial surfactant of all. It is quite strong, and among other things, it can remove oil from the skin and dehydrate it. And if any remains on the skin, it can be very irritating.

Therefore, it is advisable to avoid cleansers with SLS (at least in the first ingredients), and its less aggressive relative, sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).

Many people associate surfactants as bad ingredients, but to tell the truth, this statement is not true. Yes, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a skin irritant surfactant, but it does not cause cancer.

In fact, many of the surfactants listed above are derived from a natural source, and they work to improve the integrity and performance of your cosmetic formulations. Don’t be afraid of them!

EMOLLIENTS

These moisturizing compounds help reduce the amount of moisture that is lost through the skin, even when washed. To do this, they form a thin film-like barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss.

The most popular emollient ingredients are: mineral oil (petrolatum), lanolin, silicones and ceramides. Some fatty alcohols, such as cetearyl alcohol, also offer moisturizing and smoothing benefits for the skin.

MOISTURIZERS

Moisturizers work in a similar way to emollients, drawing moisture to the skin and keeping it there for a short period of time while the skin absorbs it.

A very common moisturizer in facial cleansers is glycerin. This ingredient is also found naturally in the skin. Oat extract, hyaluronic acid, and sodium PCA are also great moisturizers.

Oils can also be included in facial cleansers as hydrating ingredients; olive oil, jojoba oil, and some essential oils serve this purpose.

Scrubs

Cleaning should leave skin looking brighter, not dull and dry. This is why some cleansers may include exfoliating products that act as skin brighteners.

For example, citric acid, salicylic acid, or other fruit acids are widely used, which promote exfoliation of the skin to remove dead, dull cells and reveal a brighter appearance.

Some cleaners may incorporate particles or seeds as a means of physical exfoliation. Although this can remove some dead skin cells, it is not considered as effective a method as a chemical peel.

This is because physical exfoliants cannot penetrate deep into the skin to loosen the “glue” that binds dead skin cells to the pores. Chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic acid, can accomplish this exfoliation process more effectively.

ANTIBACTERIAL

Antibacterial ingredients extend the shelf life of the product and eliminate potentially harmful or irritating microorganisms from the skin.

Facial cleansers directed at those skin that suffer from acne, dry skin, or other skin disorders, may intentionally include antimicrobial ingredients for the purpose of assisting in the treatment of those conditions.

Examples of ingredients used in facial cleansers for this purpose include benzoyl peroxide, azaleic acid, tea tree oil, and honey.

Instead, you should be wary of antimicrobial chemicals designed to extend the life of facial cleansers, and avoid harmful ones, such as parabens (all ingredients that end in -parabene) or the popular Phenoxyethanol.

How to clean the face well?

Experts have different opinions on how often you should wash your face. Our advice? Listen to your skin .

Some skin types can benefit from a twice daily morning and evening cleansing routine to control excess oil and shine, while the same routine can make other skin dry and tight.

As a general rule: Always wash your face at night, and never sleep with makeup on .

At night, cleansing can help remove makeup, oil, and dirt that have accumulated on our faces throughout the day, so your skin can breathe and renew itself overnight.

We are not aware, but throughout the day our skin gets quite dirty . Invisible impurities in the air (especially in polluted cities) land on our faces where they can cause free radical damage (the damage that causes premature signs of aging) and clog pores.

When we wake up, however, a complete cleaning is not mandatory. If you feel like your skin is producing a lot of oil, and you wake up with shiny or dirty skin, you can choose to do a second cleanse in the morning, perhaps with a lighter cleanser than what you use at night.

If not, rinsing your face with water or cleansing it with a mild toner will suffice.

You can also choose to cleanse the skin at noon, after strenuous physical activity or if it is very dirty from daily activity.

How to do it correctly? Let’s see it:

Different facial cleansers have slightly different directions for use, but for the most part, the basic principles are the same.

STEP 1: Remove makeup

Use a makeup remover to remove as much makeup as possible. Some people prefer a traditional oil-based makeup remover, while others opt for a cleansing oil, micellar water, or cleansing wipes.

This step is particularly important if you are wearing sturdy makeup.

STEP 2: Wash your face

Now that you’ve removed most of the dirt, use a small amount of your chosen cleanser on your hands, and emulsify it with warm water.

Massage the emulsion onto your skin in circular motions for at least 30 seconds, starting below the jaw line, working your way up. Use the tops of your palms and the length of your fingers to quickly cover a lot of skin, and apply a massage that stimulates the skin and the muscles underneath.

Make sure to cover the entire area, including commonly forgotten areas, such as along the hairline, under the ears, in the front and back of the neck, and at the cleavage.

Find out beforehand if it is appropriate to use the cleanser in the area around the eyes, if not use an eye makeup remover instead.

STEP 3: Rinse and dry gently

Most cleaners need to be rinsed with water to remove all loose dirt and impurities. Remember to always rinse your face with warm water, not hot. Although you can also use a damp cloth or cotton to remove the remains.

If all of the makeup has not been removed, you can do a second cleaning, either with the same cleanser or with a different product.

After all of the cleaner is removed, pat the rest gently (rather than rubbing) with a clean, dry towel.

And once the skin is completely clean, it is very important to nourish it. It depends on whether you want to apply tonics, serums, spot treatments, active ingredients or chemical exfoliants on the skin, but it is very important to hydrate it with a cream or lotion that is appropriate for your skin type and your needs.

Can you excessively cleanse the skin?

Yes. Although cleanliness is important, care must be taken not to over-clean. Cleaning the skin too often can remove moisture from the skin, causing dry and irritated skin, particularly if you have sensitive skin or use harsh soaps.

Is it necessary to use a facial brush to clean the skin?

Surely you have heard of facial brushes, and you may be wondering if you really need one to perform a complete skin cleansing.

Many people make facial brushes sound like a must-have tool to use every day, although in reality, most people don’t use them.

Whether you go for an electric or manual facial brush, the principle is the same. The lightweight bristles do the job of massaging your skin with the cleanser , so they can achieve a more thorough cleaning as well as a gentle exfoliation.

Some face brushes are more aggressive, and should be considered like any other physical scrub, while others are soft as feathers, and can be used twice a day.

So are they mandatory? The answer is no. If a normal cleansing routine works for you, and you already have a good scrub, you don’t really need a facial brush. However, if you find your makeup difficult to remove, or you just like the idea of ​​using a brush to exfoliate, go for it!

Some people try facial brushes and find that they offer the perfect cleansing and exfoliation for their skin type, while for others they simply make no difference. So, give it a try if you feel like it!

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Kathie Sand

Kathie Sand always saw the world of beauty as the terrain on which to build her professional career, a goal that was clear to her when she was only 15 years old. Her great concern to expand knowledge led her to settle in Paris where she studied hand in hand with the best beauty professionals and with the most advanced techniques for skin care.

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