Beauty
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Skin Care Cleanser?

Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke

Skin care cleanser is a mild cleaning product formulated for the face and is not as harsh as body soaps. Washing your face twice a day can help in preventing the bacteria that causes acne. Cleansers come in a wide variety of formulas and some work better on particular skin types than others. For the product to be most effective, choose a skin care cleanser that is designed for your skin.

The first step is choosing the best skin care cleanser is to determine your skin type. Consider any constant skin problems you experience, such as redness or excessive oil. Examine your skin when it is freshly cleaned and see if it has the same texture everywhere or if the texture differs in specific areas.

Skin care products should be tailored to a person's specific skin type.
Skin care products should be tailored to a person's specific skin type.

If your skin feels tight after a shower or cleaning and appears red and flaky, it is classified as dry. Look for cleansers that are labeled as extra moisturizing formulas. Use rich cream cleansers because they contain ingredients that create a moisturizing barrier on the surface of your skin and prevent flakes from forming.

Oily skin will typically look shiny even after washing it or will feel greasy to the touch. If you have oily skin, choose gel or liquid cleansers that are specifically labeled for oily skin. These cleansers will aid in slowing down oil production without completely drying out skin. Avoid any cream cleansers because their moisturizing properties may make skin even more oily.

Some skin care cleansers are specifically formulated to treat acne.
Some skin care cleansers are specifically formulated to treat acne.

Combination skin is when skin is dry in certain areas, while being oily in others. If you have combination skin, your nose, chin and forehead may be shiny while the sides of your face are dry. Avoid irritating your dry spots while still cleaning the oily areas by selecting a basic liquid cleanser that is not formulated for any particular skin type. Cream cleansers may be too rich for the oily parts of your skin, while gels may make flaky areas worse.

Washing your face twice a day can help prevent some types of bacteria.
Washing your face twice a day can help prevent some types of bacteria.

If your skin rarely gets pimples and isn’t oily or dry, it’s considered normal. Normal skin still requires regular cleansing to maintain its appearance. Use a bar or lotion-based cleanser that has a milky texture to clean any makeup or bacteria off skin without altering its moisture levels. Avoid products that are specialized for particular skin problems because the unnecessary ingredients can irritate your skin.

Skin that often develops pimples or blackheads typically needs a cleanser that is formulated to treat acne. Basic cleansing designed for skin type won’t usually be enough to treat the bacteria causing blemishes. Choose a cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are used to get rid of acne. Liquid or gel cleansers tend to be the best choices for blemish-prone skin because they clear up bacteria and oil without irritating skin. If your skin is dry and blemish-prone, use an acne treating cream cleanser.

Some skin types cannot handle the fragrances or chemicals that are in most cleansers. If you use cleansers and your skin becomes red or itchy, choose cleansers labeled noncomedogenic, which are designed to not irritate skin. Choose a skin care cleanser that is fragrance-free, not unscented. Unscented actually can contain fragrances that cover up the natural odors of chemicals and may still irritate sensitive skin.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Skin care products should be tailored to a person's specific skin type.
      By: picsfive
      Skin care products should be tailored to a person's specific skin type.
    • Some skin care cleansers are specifically formulated to treat acne.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      Some skin care cleansers are specifically formulated to treat acne.
    • Washing your face twice a day can help prevent some types of bacteria.
      By: lightwavemedia
      Washing your face twice a day can help prevent some types of bacteria.