Cleansing is a primary step in most skin care routines, but choosing the right product can at times be very hard. Out of a large variety of formulas, consistencies, and components there it is no wonder that one can wonder what a cleanser’s actual job is and if there is even a need for it every single day.

A face cleanser is to remove impurities like dirt, oil, sweat, makeup, sunscreen and what not from your skin. The right choice of a cleanser leaves your skin feeling clean and at ease without which it becomes too dry or tight.

Cleansing is a key element in many Korean skin care regimens which typically aim for clean, hydrated and comfortable looking skin through a series of basic steps.

What Is a Face Cleanser?

A face cleanser is a skincare product which you can use to clean your skin without resorting to aggressive scrubs. What it does is remove what accumulates on the skin over the course of the day which includes excess sebum, dust, sweat, sunscreen, and make up.

Face cleansers present in a variety of forms which include:.

• Gel cleansers
• Foam cleansers
• Cream cleansers
• Milk cleansers
• Oil cleansers
• Cleansing balms
• Micellar or water-based cleansers

Each skin type is unique and responds differently. Your skin type, your daily routine, what you put on your skin  these are what will help to determine which type is best for you.

What do you use for cleansing your face?

Every day your skin is in contact with a variety of substances. Sweat, oil, pollution, sunscreen, make up, and dust accumulate on the surface.

Water by itself may not remove all of that which is to be removed. A cleanser’s job is to lift and wash away impurities, which in turn leaves your skin prepared for the next products in your routine.

1. It Cleans and DAILY Residue

A cleanser which removes dirt, sweat and other surface impurities that build up during the day.

This is also true for people who spend lots of time outdoors, exercise often, or live in a polluted environment.

2. It Absorbs Extra Oil

Your body produces sebum which is an oil that it uses for skin protection. Also when there is too much oil the face may feel greasy and we may see development of clogged pores.

A proper face wash will remove excess oil without at the same time removing all of the skin’s natural moisture.

If after cleansing you notice your skin is very tight the product may be too drying for your skin.

3. It is for sun and makeup removal

Sunscreen is a key component of a daily skin care routine but at night time it should be removed.

Make up has to be removed before bedtime.

Some sunscreen and makeup resist a mild cleanser which is when you may want to try double cleansing.

What Is Double Cleansing?

In two steps.

First out is an oil based cleanser, cleansing balm, or a similar product which is meant to remove make up, sun screen and oil based products.

At the second stage we use a water based cleanser which removes any leftover impurities from the skin.

This is a popular practice in korean skin care products regimens which in turn applies to when one wears make-up or water resistant sunscreen.

Also not all require double cleansing. If a single product is removing your daily make up and leaving your skin clear  one step may be sufficient.

How Do You Choose the Right Face Cleanser?

Choosing what face wash to use is a function of determining your skin type and how your skin acts.

Face Cleanser for Dry Skin

Dry skin may feel tight, rough, or itchy after a wash.

A mild, dairy or gel cleanser is a great choice for those that wish to clean their skin without stripping it of its natural moisture.

Look out for products that contain ingredients like glycerin, ceramides which will help with moisture or other skin conditioning agents.

Face Cleanser for Oily Skin

Oily skin produces an overabundance of sebum and as a result may feel greasy during the day.

A gentle gel or foam cleanser works well for this skin type. In terms of ingredients we see that salicylic acid is a common addition to cleansers for oily and blemish prone skin.

However we also see that over cleaning of the skin can cause dryness and discomfort which in turn means that over washing is not always the answer.

Face Cleanser for Combination Skin

Combination skin has an oily T zone which at the same time the cheeks may be normal or dry.

A soothing cleanser which removes excess oil yet doesn’t dry out the rest of your face works great.

Face Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin may react to certain product ingredients and very strong cleansers.

A mild cleanser which is simple in formula may be what you prefer. Stay away from aggressive scrubs and introduce new products gradually.

If you notice that your skin is irritated on a continuous basis stop use of the product and talk to a dermatologist.

How Often Should You Use a Face Cleanser?

For some people daily or every other day cleansing is enough.

In the morning you may do a face wash of overnight sweat and oil. At night what is especially recommended is a good cleanse which removes sunscreen, make up, dirt and day’s worth of buildup.

Also your skin type and lifestyle play a role.

If you have very dry or sensitive skin do not over clean, if you exercise or sweat a great deal you may have to wash up.

We aim to clean the skin without drying it out.

How Should You Use a Face Cleanser?

Using a gentle rub is all that is required for a face cleanser.

Follow these simple steps:.

1. Wet your face with lukewarm water.
2. Put a little cleanser in your hand.
3. Gently massage it over your face.
4. Pay note to areas that have oil, sunscreen, or makeup which tend to accumulate.
5. Rinse thoroughly.
6. Gently pat your face dry with a clean soft towel.
7. Continue with toner, serum, moisturizer or any other skincare products.

Steer clear of hot water as it may leave your skin dry or irritated.

What Role Does Face Cleanser Play in Korean Skincare?

Korean skincare regimens may be multi step but cleansing is still the base.

The concept is not to use every product available. Instead each step should have a different function.

A typical routine may include: A usual routine may include:.

Oil Cleanser → Water-Based Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen

At night there is no need for sunscreen after cleansing.

Not for all is the same routine. Your regime may be changed out based on your skin type, concerns, lifestyle, and the products you use.

Which ingredients should you look for in a face cleanser?

Proper ingredients for your skin’s needs.

Glycerin

Glycerin acts as a humectant which draws out moisture and is a common ingredient in hydrating skin care formulas.

Ceramides

Ceramides which are lipids that the skin produces naturally are present in products which in turn support the skin barrier.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid which is very much used in products for oily and blemish prone skin.

Centella Asiatica

Centella asiatica is a popular ingredient in Korean skincare and is used in soothing and skin comfort formulations.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is used in a great deal of moisture oriented skin care products for the fact that it is able to attract and hold water.

An ingredient list by itself does not determine if a product is right for you. Also key are the complete formula, concentration, and how your skin responds.

Can a Face Cleanser Dry Out Your Skin?

Some cleansers may leave the skin which is dry or tight.

This may be the case when you have a very strong formula, when you wash too often, or when you use very hot water.

A telltale sign of successful cleansing is that your skin feels clean yet still comfortable.

If you notice your skin is tight, flakey, or out of sorts after washes try out a milder product and see what you can reduce.

Do you use the same face cleanser for morning and night?

Sure you can use the same cleanser if it is comfortable for your skin.

Some people go for a mild cleanser in the morning and a heftier cleansing routine at night which also includes removal of makeup and sunscreen.

There is no need to use different cleansers. What is important is that the product does an effective job of cleaning your skin without causing dryness or irritation.

Common Face Cleansing Mistakes to Avoid

Washing With Very Hot Water

Hot water leaves the skin dry. Lukewarm water is the better option.

Scrubbing Too Hard

Your face does not require rough treatment in order to be clean, gentle massaging is usually what is needed.

Cleansing Too Often

Routinely washing in large quantities of water throughout the day disrupts the skin’s natural moisture and comfort.

Using Body Soap on Your Face

Facial skin is also more delicate than that of the body which is why we see to it that we use products which are specially formulated for face cleanser.

Going into sleep with makeup and sunscreen on.

Putting makeup and sunscreen on for the night is a practice which can lead to buildup and may cause your skin to feel uncomfortable. At night it is best to clean your face of these products.

FAQs About Face Cleanser

Is it a requirement to use face cleanser daily?

For most people regular cleansing is a must which includes removing sweat, oil, sunscreen, make up, and daily buildup. What you do is based on your skin type and lifestyle.

What do you notice between a face cleanser and face wash?

The terms are very much used interchangeably. But “face wash” is a term which is put to foaming and gel based products and at the same time “cleanser” is a wider term which includes creams, oils, balms, and milks.

Do I use a gentle cleanser if I have sensitive skin?

Yes. Choose products that are mild and stay away from harsh scrubs. If a product causes burning, redness to last for a while, or irritation, stop use.

When should I do my face wash in relation to taking a shower?

During cleansing do it while in the shower or right after. Also if you wear makeup or have on sunscreen get them off as part of your night time routine.

Is double cleansing necessary every night?

No. Double cleansing is a good practice for when you wear makeup or water resistant sunscreen, also not all people require to do it nightly.

Can a face cleanser remove blackheads?

A cleanser is good at removing excess oil and surface buildup but may not totally rid you of blackheads. For routines which focus on clogged pores ingredients like salicylic acid may be very useful.

Oily skin can use a moisturizing face cleanser.

Yes. Oily skin can benefit from products which also put moisture back in. I have had good results with cleansers that they leave, not leaving the skin very dry.

For how long should I leave the cleanser on my face?

Most cleansers should be massaged in for a short while before rinsing. Follow the product label instead of leaving it on longer than recommended.

Final Thoughts

A daily face cleanser is an easy way to maintain a routine in skin care. It removes dirt, sweat, extra oil, sunscreen, make up, and other build up which in turn prepares the skin for the following products.

Right for you is the cleanser that matches your skin type and what you need out of a cleanser. For dry skin we have a thing for moisturizing formulas, for oily skin a light weight option is best and as for sensitive skin a very gentle product is what you’ll want.

If you are into building a routine with Korean skin care products, cleansing is a great place to start. You don’t need a complex routine to care for your skin. Choose what works for your skin type, use what you choose consistently and pay attention to how your skin reacts over time.