In the world of skincare, there’s often confusion between the terms face wash and cleanser—and it’s easy to see why. Both are designed to clean the skin, but they have different purposes, textures, and benefits. Understanding the difference between these two can help you pick the right one for your skin type and needs, making a big difference in your skincare routine.
Let’s dive into what sets a facewash apart from a cleanser and how to decide which one is best for you.
What is a Cleanser?
A cleanser is a product that gently removes dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities from the skin. Cleansers are typically creamy, milky, or even oil-based, and they’re designed to hydrate and nourish while cleaning. They’re ideal for dissolving makeup, sunscreen, and any buildup from the day without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. Cleansers are often milder than facewashes, making them a good choice for sensitive or dry skin.
When to use a cleanser: Cleansers are great for evening use, especially as the first step in a double-cleansing routine. They can be used to remove makeup and surface oils gently, leaving the skin soft and prepped for the next steps in your skincare routine.
How it works: Cleansers break down the oil-based impurities on your skin. The creamy or oil-based consistency allows it to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess oils without needing to foam up. This gentle approach makes it a top choice for people with dry, sensitive, or mature skin.
What is a Facewash?
A face wash is a product designed to thoroughly clean the skin, specifically removing excess oil, dirt, and sweat. Facewashes are usually water-based and often foam or lather when applied, giving a deeper clean compared to most cleansers. They’re perfect for targeting the impurities that build up throughout the day and can help control oil production, making them ideal for people with oily or acne-prone skin.
When to use a face wash: Facewashes are excellent for morning use, as they refresh and wake up your skin, removing any oils that built up overnight. They’re also helpful if you want a deeper clean, especially after a workout or a hot day when your skin feels greasy.
How it works: Facewashes work by foaming or lathering up to remove oils, dirt, and impurities from the skin’s surface. This foaming action can feel refreshing and provide a deep-clean feeling, which is especially beneficial for those with oily skin. However, some facewashes can be too harsh for dry or sensitive skin types.
Key Differences Between a Face Wash and Cleanser
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s break down the key differences between a facewash and a cleanser:
- Purpose
- Cleanser: Designed to remove makeup, sunscreen, and dirt without stripping moisture. It’s about gentle cleaning and maintaining balance.
- Face wash: Focuses on deeper cleaning, especially for removing oil and sweat. It’s more about refreshing and de-greasing.
- Texture
- Cleanser: Usually creamy, milky, oil-based, or even gel-based without much lather. It glides smoothly over the skin and doesn’t require foaming.
- Facewash: Typically water-based and foams or lathers up, which helps create that fresh, deep-clean feeling.
- Intensity of Cleaning
- Cleanser: Provides a gentle clean, ideal for people who don’t wear heavy makeup or have drier skin.
- Facewash: Offers a more intense clean, ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin or anyone who sweats frequently.
- Effect on Skin’s Natural Oils
- Cleanser: Preserves the skin’s natural oils, so it’s suitable for sensitive or dry skin.
- Facewash: Can be a little more stripping, so it’s better for oily skin types. It may not be ideal for people with very dry or sensitive skin.
- When to Use Them
- Cleanser: Often used as part of a nighttime routine, especially as the first step in double cleansing to remove makeup and sunscreen.
- Facewash: Commonly used in the morning or as a follow-up after a cleanser to ensure a deep clean.
Can You Use Both a Facewash and Cleanser?
Absolutely! In fact, many people use both a cleanser and a facewash in a routine called double cleansing. Here’s how it works:
- First Cleanse (Cleanser): Start with an oil-based or gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and the day's impurities. This step ensures your skin is prepped by removing anything that might block your pores.
- Second Cleanse (Facewash): Follow up with a facewash to deeply cleanse and get rid of any remaining dirt, oil, or impurities. This second step ensures your skin is thoroughly clean and ready for toners, serums, or moisturizers.
Double cleansing is particularly helpful for people who wear makeup, live in polluted areas, or have combination or oily skin. However, if your skin is on the drier side, you may find that a single, gentle cleanse is enough to keep your skin balanced.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between a facewash and a cleanser depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Dry or Sensitive Skin: A cleanser is often a better choice since it cleans without drying out your skin. Look for cream or oil-based cleansers with hydrating ingredients.
- Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: A facewash might be more suitable, especially one that controls oil and cleanses deeply. If you like double cleansing, use a gentle cleanser first, then follow with a facewash.
- Combination Skin: You may benefit from using both products at different times of the day. Try a gentle cleanser in the evening to remove makeup and a facewash in the morning to refresh your skin.
- Makeup Wearers or Active Lifestyle: Double cleansing can help ensure all dirt and makeup is removed, giving you a fresh canvas for any follow-up products.
While both facewashes and cleansers clean your skin, they each bring unique benefits. Cleansers are gentle, hydrating, and great for keeping skin balanced, while facewashes offer a deep clean for oily or active skin types. Choosing the right one (or using both!) can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels.
Next time you’re shopping for skincare, consider what each product does and what your skin needs. With the right choice, you’ll have a refreshed, clean, and happy face every time you wash up!