Think of cleansing like the foundation of skincare. While it may seem like a basic step in your routine, it’s crucial to ensure you have a clean base for the rest of your products to work their magic.
As Decleor skincare specialist explains, ‘if your skin isn’t totally clean, it stops anything you apply next from absorbing effectively’.
So, finding the right facial cleanser could be a game-changer, but with so many formulas available, it's important to understand the differences and benefits of each type to choose the one that suits your skin best.
What is Micellar Water?
Micellar water is a gentle cleansing water that contains micelles, tiny oil molecules that bind to dirt, makeup, and impurities to leave you with a clean base.
Quick and easy to use, this option is a real lifesaver for late nights or times when you’re on the go, as you don’t even need water.
This option is usually suitable for all skin types - including sensitive skin.
How to Use Micellar Water
To use micellar water, simply apply a generous amount onto a cotton pad and gently swipe it across your face to cleanse and refresh your skin.
We recommend following this with another cleanser, if time allows. This will give the skin a more thorough wash and ensure no impurities are left behind.
Note: If you like to wear heavy makeup, you may want to repeat this process a couple of times, using a fresh cotton pad to ensure you remove all traces.What is Foaming Cleanser?
Foaming cleansers create a rich lather when mixed with water, helping to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin's surface.
Super lightweight in consistency, this product is well suited to oily skin types as water-based formulas cleanse your face without introducing more oil to your skin.
How to Use Foaming Cleanser
To use a foaming cleanser, dampen your face with water, lather the product in your hands, then massage it onto your face before rinsing thoroughly.
What is Cream Cleanser?
A cream cleanser often has a thicker texture and is infused with ingredients to help the skin retain moisture, like plant-based oils.
From ‘milks’ to ‘butters’, cream cleansers are gentle and crafted to wash the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
This type of cleanser is perfect for dry or sensitive skin types, as the nourishing ingredients may help to soothe and hydrate the complexion.
How to Use Cream Cleanser
Massage a small amount of product onto damp skin using circular motions, then remove using a damp muslin cloth and lukewarm water.
What is a Cleansing Balm?
Cleansing balms typically come in a solid form and melt into an oil-like consistency when applied to the skin.
They are designed to effectively remove makeup, dirt, and impurities, while providing hydration and nourishment.
The gentle nature of this product makes it an ideal choice for dry or combination skin types.
How to Use Cleansing Balms
Simply scoop out a small amount and warm it up between your fingertips.
Once melted, use circular motions to massage it onto dry skin and then rinse with warm water or wipe away with a muslin cloth.
Follow up with the rest of your skincare routine.
What is an Oil Cleanser?
Infused with nourishing plant oils, this type of cleanser works to dissolve and lift away impurities and stubborn waterproof products, while also hydrating the skin.
Oil cleansers tend to emulsify when in contact with water, creating a thick, luxurious lather that offers a beautifully immersive experience.
We recommend oil cleansers to those with dry skin due to their gentle, nourishing effects.
How to Use Oil Cleansers
Apply it to dry skin and gently massage in circular motions to dissolve makeup and impurities, then rinse with warm water for a clean and nourished complexion.
Note: Oil cleansers are great if you tend to wear lots of makeup as they can help to break down the products.Choosing the right facial cleanser could be the key to unlocking the radiant skin you’ve been looking for.
It might be time to step outside of your comfort zone and experiment with different formulas to find the perfect match for your skin type and preferences.
Learn more about how to achieve the perfect cleanse for your specific skin type with our expert guide.Related Articles
