When it comes to skincare, most of us have tried to figure out the difference between a cleanser and a face wash and believed that both cleanser and face wash are the same. With the beauty industry flooded with countless products, it’s easy to get confused between the two. Though both are formulated to cleanse your face, they work quite differently, serve unique purposes and are suitable for different skin types. Thus, picking the right one for your skin type is essential for attaining healthy skin and using the wrong product may result in dryness, irritation or improper cleansing.
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Dive into this article to understand the difference between face wash and cleanser, their benefits, uses and side effects.
What Is A Face Cleanser?
A face cleanser is a mild skincare product designed to clear dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities from the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. They typically have a creamy, lotion-like, or gel-based texture and work best to hydrate and soothe dry to sensitive skin.
How does it work?
Cleansers work by breaking down oil, makeup, and impurities on the surface of your skin, making it easier to wipe or rinse them away gently. They are perfect for those with sensitive or dry skin.
What Is A Face Wash?
A face wash is a foaming cleanser that is usually stronger than a regular cleanser. It penetrates deeper into the skin pores to remove dirt, sweat, and excess oil, and is especially useful after a long day or workout.
Also Read: Facial Cleansers: 3 DIY Natural Skin Clarifiers For That Ultimate Dewy Glow
How does it work?
Face washes create a rich lather and use surfactants to remove deeper impurities, making them more suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Key Differences Between Face Cleanser and Face Wash
| Feature | Face Cleanser | Face Wash
|
| Texture | Creamy, gel-like, or milky | Foamy or gel-based
|
| Lather | No lather or minimal | Produces foam
|
| Deep cleaning | Gentle surface cleaning | Deep pore cleaning
|
| Skin type | Dry, sensitive, or normal skin | Oily, acne-prone, combination skin
|
| Hydration | Hydrating and soothing | Can be drying if used too often |
| When to use | Morning or before bed | After workouts or heavy oil buildup
|
Benefits of Using a Cleanser
- Gentle on the skin
- Helps maintain the natural skin barrier
- Ideal for removing makeup and sunscreen
- Reduces irritation and dryness
- Suitable for double cleansing routines
Also Read: Skin Care: A Guide To Finding The Perfect Cleanser For Dry Skin Woes
Benefits of Using a Face Wash
- Deep cleans pores
- Removes sweat, oil, and pollution
- Helps prevent acne and blackheads
- Refreshes and rejuvenates the skin
Which Is Better: Cleanser or Face Wash?
It depends on your skin type and daily routine:
For dry or sensitive skin cleanser is a better choice.
Those with oily or acne-prone skin face wash that is more effective.
For combination skin type, use a gentle face wash in the morning and a cleanser at night.
For many people, a combination of both (e.g., cleanser in the morning, face wash in the evening) works best.
Precautions
Always do a patch test while testing a new product to avoid allergic reactions.
Don’t overuse face washes; they can strip skin of natural oils.
Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol or sulphates, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Follow up with moisturiser to lock in moisture and make your skin look supple and hydrated.
Never blend too many compounds like salicylic acid and retinol without professional guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need A Face Wash If You Use A Cleanser?
Not necessarily. If you wear minimal makeup and have dry or sensitive skin, a cleanser would be fine. However, those with oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from using a cleanser first, then a face wash.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Face Cleanser?
It may not remove deep-rooted oil or dirt.
Not effective for oily or acne-prone skin alone.
Some may leave a residue if not rinsed properly.
Can I Use Cleanser Daily?
Yes, cleansers are gentle enough for daily use in the morning and at night.
Can I Use Cleanser Instead Of Face Wash?
Yes, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Cleansers are milder and can clean effectively without stripping the moisture off the skin.
Face Cleanser Vs Face Wash For Oily Skin?
Face wash is considered better for oily skin as it deeply cleans and removes excess sebum. However, gel-based cleansers with salicylic acid also work well.
Face Cleanser Vs Face Wash For Dry Skin?
Cleanser is better as it nourishes and soothes skin without stripping moisture. Avoid foaming face washes, which can cause dryness.
How To Use A Cleanser?
Wet your face with lukewarm water
Apply a small amount of cleanser and massage gently
Rinse with water or wipe with a damp cloth
Pat dry and moisturise
Can I Use Cleanser And Face Wash At The Same Time?
Yes, this type of cleaning is called double cleansing. Start with a cleanser to remove makeup and dirt, followed by a face wash for deep cleaning. Best used at night or after wearing sunscreen or makeup.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specialising in tailoring personalised diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasising the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
CLEANSERS AND THEIR ROLE IN VARIOUS DERMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS
Partha Mukhopadhyay 1,✉
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3088928/
https://www.irjmets.com/uploadedfiles/paper//issue_3_march_2024/50617/final/fin_irjmets1710832980.pdf
https://skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/difference-between-face-wash-and-cleanser
