Choose the right face cleanser for your skin type with this simple guide

Cleansing is an important building block of a good skincare routine. It not only removes dead skin cells and impurities from the skin, but also rejuvenates it. Not cleansing properly or using the wrong product can lead to long-term side effects.

Remember, your skin type is unique and deserves a cleanser that works for you (Source: Freepik)

We spend a lot of time and money looking for the perfect moisturiser that won’t block our pores and the right SPF for our skin type. However, when it comes to cleansers, we are not as selective. But cleansing is an important building block of a good skincare routine. It not only removes dead skin cells and impurities from the skin, but also rejuvenates it. Not cleansing properly or using the wrong product can lead to long-term side effects.

Dr Ramdas, Senior Dermatologist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad said, “Maintaining healthy skin begins with a proper cleansing routine. Cleansing is crucial for removing impurities, excess oil and environmental pollutants that accumulate on the skin’s surface throughout the day. However, different skin types require specific cleansers to achieve optimal results.”

That is why we have curated a simple guide to help you choose the right face cleanser for your skin type. Dr Madhuri Agarwal, Dermatologist, Founder and Medical Director of Yavana Aesthetics Clinic Skin and Hair took to Instagram to share a #CleanserGuideForAllSkinTypes.

“Are you still using that same bar of soap to wash your face as you do for your body? Well, stop right there! As a dermatologist, I cannot stress enough how important it is to choose the right cleanser for your skin type. Using the wrong cleanser is like trying to fit a square box into a round hole — it just doesn’t work and can aggravate a variety of skin problems such as breakouts, dryness, irritation and unhappy skin,” she captioned the post.

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A post shared by Dr Madhuri Agarwal (@dr_madhuriagarwal)

Further adding, she wrote, “Remember, your skin type is unique and deserves a cleanser that works for you. Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all approach — it’s like trying to wear someone else’s shoes! So, choose wisely, and your skin will thank you. It’s like finding the perfect partner — your skin will glow with happiness and feel like it’s dancing in the air!”

Normal skin

Normal skin is characterised by pores barely visible and an even skin tone, which has minimal skin sensitivities and blemishes. Dr Agrawal says that the perfect cleanser formulations for this skin type are micellar water, gel, oil or cream cleansers with ceramides.

Adding to this, Dr Ramdas said, “Normal skin can use a wide range of gentle, pH-balanced cleansers with added nourishing ingredients like antioxidants or vitamin C.”

Dry skin

If you have dry skin, you will have small pores and dull, rough skin, which is prone to redness and flaking. The best face cleanser for you is micellar water or cream cleansers infused with humectants such as squalene and glycerin.

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Concurring, Dr Ramdas said, “Dry skin benefits from gentle, hydrating cleansers containing glycerin, hyaluronic acid or ceramides.”

Combination skin

Find the right cleanser for your skin type. (Source: Freepik)

People with combination skin have medium-sized pores and an oily T-zone with possibility of blemishes and blackheads. A gel or foamy cleanser is best for you, which contains ingredients such as glycolic or lactic acid.

Similarly, Dr Ramdas shared that combination skin benefits from gel-based or foaming cleansers that remove excess oil from the T-zone while maintaining hydration on drier areas.

Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin can include fine or large pores, redness, itching and dryness of skin, and is more prone to irritation. Cream cleansers that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic are ideal for your skin type.

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Additionally, Dr Ramdas said, “Sensitive skin requires fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.”

ALSO READ | Expert busts three common myths around cleansing

Oily skin

If you have oily skin, you may have large pores, shiny and greasy skin, with blemishes and blackheads. A gel or foamy cleanser is best for your skin type. It should contain ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.

“For oily skin, gel-based or foaming cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil effectively control oil production and unclog pores,” said Dr Ramdas.

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Concluding, he said, “Cleansing removes impurities such as dirt, pollution and dead skin cells, preventing pore blockages and reducing the risk of acne and other skin conditions. It also helps maintain the skin’s natural pH balance, prevents clogged pores and bacterial growth, promoting skin health. It prepares the skin for better absorption of skincare products, maximising their benefits. Lastly, cleansing provides a refreshing and rejuvenating sensation, promoting circulation and giving the skin a healthy glow.”

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