Skin is our largest organ. It protects, excretes and filters the outside world keeping us clean and healthy. When we have a healthy, balanced skin it’s able to protect against pathogens, absorb nutrients and emit oils back into the atmosphere to keep us smelling fresh. A cleanser is a very important part of your skincare routine. If you have sensitive skin or an acne prone complexion then you will need to find a product that truly treats all skin types. The right cleanser can remove dirt, oil and grime from your face without stripping natural oils or leaving it feeling tight or dry. Or if you’re struggling with breakouts then you’ll need something that reduces excess oil production without aggravating blemishes further. Instead of looking for one perfect product that does everything for everyone there are many different options available depending on your individual needs and concerns. Here are some of my top picks
## What is the best cleanser for acne prone skin?
Acne prone skin is the worst. Your skin is afflicted with excess oil production as it tries to cope with the influx of bacteria, irritants and allergens in your environment. For example, if you’re near a busy road or a port where ships unload cargo full of diesel fumes, petrol fumes and other airborne bacteria your skin will try to protect itself by producing excess oil. The oil will clog pores, encourage bacteria to grow and cause inflammation. That’s why exfoliants, treatments and cleansers that gently slough off the top layers of skin are key for acne prone skin. You want a product that gets rid of dirt and excess oil without damaging the barrier function of your skin. A good option for acne prone skin is the Neutrogena Naturals Liquid Deep Cleanser. This is a foaming cleanser that gently pulls oil from pores, sloughs off dead cells and leaves skin feeling clean, but not tight or dry. The best thing about the Neutrogena cleanser is that it’s oil free, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t get the job done. It creates enough foam to clean your skin and remove excess oil without stripping it of natural oils.
## What is the best cleanser for dry skin?
Dry skin is one of the most common types of skin found in the US and the UK. The condition can be exacerbated by dry air, excessive heat and exposure to the sun. While not a disease, dry skin is a common concern for many people. Some people struggle with dry skin throughout their lives while others get it as a result of certain medications or illnesses like eczema. Dry skin can be as uncomfortable and frustrating to treat as oily skin. What you need in your cleanser is a formula that is oil free, but moisturizing enough to prevent skin irritation and comedones (whiteheads and blackheads). Dry skin is easily aggravated by harsh, stripping formulas that are too rich for delicate skin. Look for a cleanser with a low pH (acidic or low-pH level) that is formulated to balance out the skin’s natural pH and prevent dryness. A good choice is the Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser as it is formulated with salicylic acid to control excess oil, but it is oil free, non-irritating and won’t strip skin of natural moisture.
## What is the best cleanser for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin is a very real concern for many people. The condition is often linked to allergies, hormone imbalances, medication side effects, eczema and rosacea. When sensitive skin is irritated it can feel tight and dry, or red, itchy and swollen. The culprit behind sensitive skin is a chemical called a photosensitizing agent. They are found in many common cleansers and skincare products such as retinol, benzoyl peroxide, some antibiotics and even sunscreen. Sensitive skin is often an issue of pH. The chemical that causes sensitivity in other formulas is usually too alkaline. Look for a cleanser with a low pH level (acidic) that is formulated to balance out the skin’s natural pH. Look for an ingredients list free of retinol, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and other sensitive-triggering ingredients. A mild, non-stripping cleanser with a low pH and mild formula is a great option for sensitive skin.
## What is the best cleanser for normal to oily skin?
Normal to oily skin is the most common type of skin found in the US and the UK. In fact, studies show that 97% of the population has this skin type. Normal to oily skin is often the result of excess sebum in the pores that causes a greasy appearance to the skin. Excess oil can clog pores, cause acne, or even lead to rosacea. Per- and poly-esters are often the cause of greasy skin. You will need a cleanser that is formulated to cleanse, but won’t strip the skin of natural oils. Look for a formula with salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid and other alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). A cleanser with a low pH (acidic) is key as it keeps the skin’s pH balanced and prevents excess oil production. An ingredients list free of per- and poly-esters is a good sign.
## What is the best cleanser for blackheads and whiteheads prone skin?
If you have blackheads or whiteheads prone skin then you need a deep cleanser that is formulated to get rid of the smelly offenders. Blackheads are clogged pores that have become infected with bacteria. You will need a formula that will exfoliate the surface of your skin to get rid of sebum, bacteria and excess oil. Look for a low pH (acidic) cleanser that is formulated to balance out your skin’s pH. Look for an ingredients list free of salicylic acid and per- and poly-esters. The best way to treat blackheads and whiteheads prone skin is with a good facial scrub, but the right kind of cleanser can also help. A low pH cleanser with a mild formula is ideal.
## Why you need a makeup remover too
We are constantly exposed to toxins, pollution and bacteria in our environment. Washing your face everyday can remove some of the build-up, but it will never be enough. It’s important to use a makeup remover to get rid of excess oil, build-up, dirt and impurities. Look for a product that has salicylic acid and glycolic acid like Neutrogena Clear Scalp Clearing Face Wash. This powerful formula is formulated with both AHAs to help dissolve surface impurities as well as unclog your pores. The best thing about a makeup remover is that it gently gets rid of oily residue, impurities and excess oil without drying the skin or causing breakouts.
## Summary
Your cleanser is your gateway to a clean, healthy skin. Use it to remove dirt, impurities and excess oil from your skin and you will prevent breakouts and maintain a healthy, balanced complexion. It’s important to find a cleanser that cleans your face, but doesn’t dry it out or strip it of natural oils. Look for a low pH cleanser with a mild formula, no per- and poly-esters and no salicylic acid.
When using a cleanser, start off with a small amount on a cotton pad and massage it into your face for a deep cleanse. Rinse your face thoroughly and pat it dry with a towel. You want to moisturize your skin as you dry it. Additionally, you should avoid using a washcloth as it is too rough on delicate skin. Instead, you can use a T-shaped cotton sponge or a washcloth dampened with warm water.
