We all cleanse our face daily to get rid of all the dirt and grime from our face. Using a cleanser twice a day and we are good to go. Pretty straight forward right?? But have you ever wondered if you are doing it right??

Now you might ask what is there to think about using a cleanser?? It is pretty simple just washing your face with your own favourite cleanser. But honestly, it is not that simple and easy.

Have you ever found yourself in a fix when you go to a store or search online for a facial cleanser?? There are so many different types that you keep wondering what are all these for?? What do they even do?? How are they different from each other?? What is right for my skin type?? Don't worry folks. We are here to help you. We will tell you everything you need to know about cleansers and get you sorted for the next time you tend to buy one.

Let's first understand why do we cleanse?? and what happens if we don't cleanse well??

We cleanse because we want our skin to be smooth, silky and soft. We don't want to be left with all the dirt and oils on our face from the entire day or the whole night. If we don't cleanse our face well it is going to result in clogged pores leading to acne, inflammation or irritation.

Now let's see what the ideal time for cleansing??

Well, Dermatologists and beauty experts have always recommended washing your face at least twice a day. But if you go out or travel a lot then you should wash your face every time you reach home. This makes it 3-4 times a day. Too much cleansing can strip your skin from its natural oils and can damage it further.

Now, let us see the different types of cleansers available.

Cleansing oils:-

I am sure you are all familiar with this term. These are oil based cleansers that find other oil-based grime on your skin. Basically, these are sebum, SPF, foundation and the gluten on your skin. Water-based cleaners are not capable of removing this oil-based debris on your skin.

How to use this??

If you are someone who wears a lot of waterproof makeup, then this is perfect for you. Squeeze out two pumps of the cleansing oil and gently massage it on your face. You will feel your makeup breaking down slowly as you use it. After massaging it for 2 minutes use a little bit of water to emulsify it and then massage it again for 2 minutes more. Wash it off with lukewarm water.

Skin type:-

Anyone who uses waterproof makeup can use this. They are suitable for all skin types.

If you are not living under a rock, then you must all be familiar with the double cleansing method. This is our next cleanser. The liquid cleanser. But again there are so many if them.

Gel Cleanser:-

These are clear in their look and typically designed for deep cleansing. They are effective at de-congesting clogged pores, removing excess oils and killing acne-causing bacteria. They are antiseptic and has exfoliating properties that deep cleanse your skin.

How to use this??

Take a little amount on your palm and massage it for a few minutes then wash it off. Note that it does not lather much, so too much product will not give you too much lather.

Skin type:-

Perfect for oily skin type. Could be moisture stripping for dry skin.

Milky cleanser:-

These cleansers are generally filled with botanical oils and emollients that moisturize and nourish the skin.

How to use:-

The usage is the same as the gel cleanser. This also does not give too much lather.

Skin type:-

Perfect for dry skin as it is moisturising.

Foam cleanser:-

If you are in love with lather, you would love this. They come out as a foam and as the name suggests they lather. They can be a little drying so people with dry sight might just want to stay away.

How to use:-

Take out 1-2 pumps and rub it on your skin. Gently massage and wash it off.

Skin type:-

Oily and acne prone skin works best with this cleanser.

Cleansing balm:-

This is a solidified version of cleansing oil. It is filled with botanical oils and antioxidants.

How to use:-

Scoop out the balm with the help of your fingers and massage it on your face. The heat from your hands will turn this balm into an oil, which will then break up all the grime on your face.

Skin type:-

Perfect for all skin types.

A tip would be to target your skin concerns in your cleansers. For example, if you have oily acne prone skin, you might want to use cleansers with AHA, BHA or benzoyl peroxide or cleansers specifically mentioned for oily skin.

If you have dry sensitive skin, you would want to use hydrating and moisturising cleansers.

Now that you have known about all the types of cleansers and which is best for which skin type, I hope it will be easier to shop the next time you are looking for cleansers.