The purpose of a facial cleanser is to remove the build-up of dirt, oils, makeup, sunscreen, pollution, and dead skin cells. It is the first step of every skin care routine and aids in unclogging pores and cleaning the skin without stripping our skin's top layer. Cleansing should happen twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening, however we sometimes need to take into consideration the type of skin and what exactly are you cleansing off i.e., makeup, sunscreen, etc.
There are different forms of cleansers, each one benefiting a different skin type. The two main cleansers that you will commonly come across are:
Gel Cleansers: these cleansers tend to be clear, have a gel-like consistency, and once emulsified between the hands with water it begins to foam! They are designed for medium/deep cleansing and are effective at decongesting clogged pores, removing excess oils, and killing acne causing bacteria. Gel cleansers are best for those with acne or oily prone skin.
Cream Cleansers: cream cleansers tend to have a very creamy texture - as the name suggests! They are much more gentler on the skin and are much more hydrating than other cleansers, making them perfect for anyone with dry or sensitive skin! Cream cleansers gently cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils, and make a great second-step cleanser if you’re into double cleansing!