The simple answer to “can I use cleanser instead of face wash?” when washing your face is, yes you can. As with most topics that come with skincare, no single answer will be able to address everyone’s problems. To get the most accurate personalized answer for your skincare routine, contact a dermatologist.
Cleanser can be used instead of face wash in a lot of instances but there will be occasions where cleanser just isn’t enough. It is important to understand the properties of both and know when it is appropriate to use only facial cleanser as part of your daily routine.
When should I use cleanser instead of face wash?
Understanding when to use cleanser instead of a face wash comes down to knowing your skin type and knowing how your body interacts with certain ingredients.
Face washing can be done with just cleanser for any skin type but results will vary. Cleansers tend to be much gentler on the skin so almost anyone should be able to use them without issues.
Make sure you use the face cleanser properly and follow the instructions to help you to maximize your results of a solo cleanse.
For those with combination or oily skin, a deeper cleanse may be needed past just a cleanser. That could be as the first step of a double cleansing or adding a face wash to your cleansing routine. Not to say that using only a cleanser won’t get the job done, but some people require stricter ingredients to remove all the excess oil and clogged pores.
What is the difference between facial cleanser and face wash?
Learning the basics of each of these skincare products will help you determine which option is best for you.
What is facial cleanser?
Facial cleansers are skincare products that are designed to cleanse, hydrate, and soothe skin. Cleanser can be used to remove makeup residue, dead skin cells, oil, dirt, and other types of unwanted grime from your skin.
Facial cleansers can be recommended for any skin type as they can be more gentle on the skin. They aim to be more soothing and hydrating which helps protect the skin’s natural oils. Cleansing formulas are designed to nourish the skin which makes them richer in texture and generally come more milky or creamy.
What is face wash?
Face washes are water based formulations designed to get sudsy once you gently massage it into your skin. They can deeply clean pores and help combat oil production through the use use of ingredients such as alcohol, citric acid, and salicylic acid. They are typically foamy.
Face washes tend to irritate some skin types due to their deep cleaning properties. Dry or sensitive skin types should monitor for redness and irritation.
Can I use cleanser instead of face wash for sensitive skin?
Yes, using just a cleanser on sensitive skin is a good choice if you have issues with tight or dry skin after you wash your face. Face washes contain ingredients that may negatively interact with sensitive skin by stripping away the natural oils your facial skin needs to remain healthy.
Can cleanser and face wash be used together?
Yes, both face wash and cleanser can be used as part of your skincare routine. Those with oily, acne prone skin, or are often wearing makeup, can utilize both products to cleanse beyond what a cleanser is capable. This can also work well for those that are exposed to air pollutants or experience excessive sweating throughout the day.
Washing your face with a double cleanse may be too harsh for those with sensitive skin.
Should I use cleanser on wet or dry skin?
Dermatologists generally recommend wetting your face before applying cleanser. In reality, you can use cleanser on wet or dry skin, just make sure to monitor your skin for tightness or dryness after.
Dry cleansing is a method that will provide benefits for some people that have oily or acne prone skin. Just be aware that certain ingredients are designed to be diluted by water so they should not be applied on dry skin.
Conclusion
Using cleanser instead of face wash is a good option for those that are having skin irritations or tightness after using face washes. Try looking for a more gentle cleanser to start using as your daily wash and adjust your skincare routine from there.
Knowing your skin type is extremely important when it comes to face wash vs face cleanser. Keep an eye out for active ingredients that moisturize, soothe, and hydrate. Look for cleansers that have hyaluronic acid and ceramides and try to avoid harsher ingredients like alcohol that can strip your face of essential oils. Dry or sensitive skin types should do their best to find these hydrating ingredients.
Be sure your face cleanser is getting the job done if this is the only product you plan on using and tend to have oily skin. Depending on your skin type you may need to add a face wash or do a double cleansing to really attack those clogged pores.
If you feel like your face is not getting 100% clean with just a cleanser and feel the need to add a face wash, be sure to monitor your skin. It is always important to monitor your skin health with any changes in your skincare routine for redness, itching, burning, or irritations.