Every skin care routine should start with a clean face. To cleanse your skin, you'll need to use either a cleanser or face wash. That's right—though these terms are often used interchangeably, cleanser and face wash aren't the same. Both help remove dirt and debris, but they work a bit differently.
A few questions are probably popping into your head right now: Is cleanser face wash? What's the difference between cleanser and face wash? Which one's right for me? Can I use both? Read on to get the answers.
What Is Cleanser?
A facial cleanser gently removes impurities from the skin's surface. Cleansers often have a creamy, milky, oily, or watery consistency, though you can find foaming cleansers, too. In general, cleansers are less likely to leave your skin feeling dry and tight since they often contain moisturizing ingredients. Gentle enough for daily use, cleansers are often recommended for dry or sensitive skin. As gentle as they are, most cleansers are still plenty effective at removing makeup and sunscreen residue at the end of the day.
But is cleanser face wash? Not exactly. These products cleanse your skin's outermost layer, which is why cleansers effectively remove makeup and sunscreen on top of the skin. Cleansers also often contain ingredients that hydrate and support the skin barrier, such as humectants (think Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid).
Take EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser, for example. This foaming cleanser contains Glycerin to hydrate the skin plus three amino acids to support a strong skin barrier—all while removing makeup and impurities for a soothing, calming, refreshed feeling.
What Is Face Wash?
If a cleanser is your daily driver, a face wash is your workhorse. Face washes provide a deeper clean, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. They usually have a foamy or gel consistency, so expect an easily spreadable, satisfying lather that targets clogged pores.
Face washes are often formulated with active ingredients like Salicylic Acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that unclogs pores and treats acne. If you battle breakouts, this can help remove excess oil while preventing and treating breakouts. Because face washes provide a deeper clean in pursuit of clear skin, they can strip some of your skin's natural oils. Face wash generally yields a deeper clean than a cleanser but is more likely to cause irritation or dryness, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin.
Cleanser vs. Face Wash: Which Is Right for You?
Cleansers and face washes sound similar, and they have some overlapping qualities since they both remove dirt, oil, and debris. So, which one's right for you?
When choosing between cleanser and face wash, consider your skin type, concerns, and any skin conditions you might have. Account for your lifestyle and preferences, too.
Cleanser
A cleanser may be best for you if you:
- Have dry or sensitive skin
- Experience skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
- Want a gentle formula suitable for daily use
- Need to remove makeup and sunscreen at the end of the day
Face Wash
A face wash may be best for you if you:
- Have oily or acne-prone skin
- Seek a formula with active acne-fighting ingredients
- Want a deep clean
- Crave a thorough reset after a tough workout
While these general guidelines can help you consider your options, they're not hard-and-fast rules. Skin care is personal, and your products should take a holistic approach to your skin. For example, if you're prone to breakouts but experience dryness or sensitivity, you might opt for a cleanser like EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser rather than a face wash. This formula binds and lifts away pore-clogging oil (and long-wear makeup and water-resistant sunscreen) while preserving the skin barrier for clear, comfortable skin.
How to Use Both in Your Routine
You don't always have to choose between using a cleanser or face wash—sometimes you can use both.
Using the double cleansing method, apply an oil-based cleanser first to break down makeup and other impurities on the skin's surface. Then, follow with a water-based face wash to clear pores. This gets the skin really clean, which helps your other skin care products absorb better. Double cleansing isn't necessary for everyone, but if you find your usual routine isn't up to snuff, double cleansing could be for you.
You can also use both products at different times. For example, opt for a gentle cleanser in the morning, and reserve your face wash for your nighttime routine or post-workout. Whether you wash or cleanse your face, always follow up with a moisturizer for your skin type and a broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning. Your skin will appreciate the effort!
Author
