Face Cleanser: Essential Product in Your Skincare Routine

When it comes to skincare, not everyone has won the genetic lottery - some need to work hard for a shiny, glossy complexion. Even those who are gifted with clear skin still have to maintain it.

Skincare has become a very important routine in our lives. From cleansing to toning and moisturising, every step is essential, and shouldn’t be overlooked.

What Is a Facial Cleanser

Cleansing helps remove excess oil, makeup, sweat, dirt and dead skin cells that live on your skin during the day. It refreshes your skin and gives your complexion a chance to breathe.

The primary role of the face cleansers is to get your skin clean without stripping the top skin layer. A good facial cleanser that matches your skin type is also the first product you use in your skincare routine. The face cleansers also create a clean foundation for you to apply next step products of your skincare regime, like toner and moisturiser.

Types of Facial Cleansers

Different people have different skin types; thus, there are different types of facial cleansers.

Gentle Cleanser

There is no better way to start or end your day then knowing that your skin is safe and sound. A gentle foaming cleanser is perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, normal skin and even sensitive skin, gently decongesting pores and removing dead skin cells. The low pH level of this product can help to balance the skin’s pH and reduce the growth of bacteria.

Being alcohol-free, non-irritating and soothing, these face cleansers are soft enough to be used even before or after dermal procedures.

Look for one with green tea, goji berry, aloe vera and vitamin E for optimal soothing results. After cleaning, rinse off with lukewarm water.

Cleansing Gel

A gel face cleanser is beneficial for eliminating surface oil and acne-causing bacteria as well as giving the skin a deeper clean. This cleanser works to clear away impurities and prevent future breakouts.

Choose a formula that includes lavender extract and lemon oil for refreshing and soothing effects.

Exfoliating Cleanser

If you want to say goodbye to excel oil and bumps on your skin, then the exfoliating cleanser is the right choice for you. This cleanser breaks down dry and dead skin while smoothening out the texture, meaning that your skin will begin to look more uniform over time.

You can choose from AHAs and BHAs exfoliating cleansers. Have in mind that those with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are recommended for normal to sensitive skin. In contrast, those containing beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) help to treat oily and acne-prone skin.

Cleansing Face Mask

If your skin type is oily or combination, you can benefit a lot from a purifying face mask with clay combined with witch hazel, to remove sebum and impurities.

A creamy clay-based formula multitasks as a facial cleanser or a face mask to deep clean your skin. Used regularly, it may result in a radiant complexion.

Cleansing Lotion

If you have dry and sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend using a cleansing lotion. They are hydrating, gentle and nourish your skin. Its milky formula moisturises your skin and leaves it hydrated. Opt for one with minimal ingredients, which recipe is perfect for daily use. Make sure to choose a product that doesn’t contain alcohol so that it won’t dry out your skin. Ingredients like camomile, rose water and tea extract have a soothing effect on irritated skin.

The cleansing lotion is a waterless product, so you don`t need to rinse off when using it.

Micellar Water

Another skin product that effectively removes dirt and makeup and doesn’t need to rinse off. This product is top-rated these days, being less harsh and less drying than regular water. It is mostly used to remove makeup and give your face a quick wash. 

Choose micellar water with the gentlest formula that is safe to use on the most sensitive parts, like the eyes and the lips. Such gentle ingredients could be organic coconut water and green tea.

Face Wipes

Even though wipes have come a long way from years ago, they shouldn't replace cleanser because they don't thoroughly clean your skin.

Consider using face wipes occasionally for daily hygiene, when you don’t have time to clean your face correctly, for example, after exercising.

How to Use Facial Cleansers

If you are using a cleansing lotion or micellar water, dispense the product onto a cotton pad and gently wipe around your face and neck to remove makeup and dirt. These products don’t need to rinse off so, applying them on a cotton pad is the easiest way.

Products like cleansing gel or exfoliator can be applied with hands, but make sure your hands are perfectly clean when gently massage your face. Use a little warm water for cleansing and always rinse off with lukewarm water. Coldwater doesn't effectively remove the daily grime, and hot water may irritate and dry out your skin.

Whatever you are using, cotton pad or your hands, rub in a circular motion starting with the forehead, then around the eyes and finishing at the chin.

The ideal time to leave the cleanser on your face is 30 to 60 seconds. Even if your skin is very oily or dirty, the cleanser shouldn’t stay on your skin longer than two minutes.

Remember never to scrub your face. Instead, use your fingers, a flannel, or a brush to gently massage in soft circles.

How Often You Should Clean Your Face

Experts agree that when it comes to cleaning your face, two is the magic number-once in the morning and once in the evening.

Don’t cleanse more often than you need to. An exception can be made if you exercise and sweat a lot, but even then, be careful not to overuse cleaning products. Limit your cleansing routine to no more than twice per day, unless directed otherwise by a dermatologist.

Remember, using just one product won’t make you face glow. A good moisturiser is as crucial as the cleanser itself. It helps restore balance to your skin, replacing the oils that cleansing so often strips from your complexion.