Your ultimate face wash guide: Tips to pick the right one

Using a face wash is the most essential skin care step to achieving healthy skin. It is nothing less than a daily detox for your skin, washing away all the impurities and preparing you for a radiant day ahead. But with so many face wash options out there, it is quite possible to feel like you may be stuck in a puzzle. From gentle, exfoliating, hydrating to brightening – the types of face wash options available are endless! So, if you are looking for the best face wash for your skin type, this guide can be helpful. These expert-recommended tips for choosing the best face wash for all skin types can help you get rid of skin concerns like dullness, dryness, acne breakouts and more while maintaining your skin’s health.

What is a face wash?

A face wash is a liquid or gel-like product that is used to clean and purify the skin on your face. The primary purpose of a face cleaner is to remove dirt, oil, makeup, impurities and product build-ups from the surface of the skin, preparing it for further skincare routine. Packed with special ingredients like emollients, antioxidants, pH balancers and surfactants, face washes can help protect your skin against environmental stressors and keep it moisturized and softened. It is an essential step in any skincare routine as it helps to maintain healthy, clean and balanced skin.

According to a study published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, a face wash is a gentle cleanser that can cleanse pores, shield the skin from conditions like acne, remove dead skin cells and more. Dermatologist Dr Shareefa Chause says that face wash is the base of any skincare or make-up routine. It can provide your skin with much-needed hydration, making your skin look supple and softer.

What are the benefits of using a face wash?

Face cleansing is a crucial step in any skincare routine. There are numerous benefits of face wash, including moisturisation, hydration cleansing and more. Regular use of the best face wash for all skin types can help effectively eliminate dirt, oil, makeup and pollutants from the skin’s surface. It can also help maintain the skin’s pH balance, leaving it feeling soft, supple and refreshed. Washing your face with a face wash may also help improve skin texture and tone, reduce the appearance of pores, and fine lines and improve the overall well-being of your skin. “Think of it as a reset button that flushes out all the environmental impurities and makeup residue from your face. It helps to create a fresh canvas for further skincare routine,” says Dr Chause.

The Journal of Indian Dermatology states that cleansers can provide moisturising benefits, and remove sebum, dirt and more.

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What are the different types of face wash?

Choosing the right face wash can make all the difference in the health and appearance of the skin. But before that, it is important to understand and know the different types of face wash.

1. Gel cleansers

Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, gel-based cleansers may help to unclog pores and reduce excess sebum production. This one is effective in deep cleansing, removing oil and killing acne-causing bacteria. A Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology study states that a cleansing gel that is packed with ingredients like salicylic acid can help to manage mild to moderate facial acne.

2. Cream face wash

The best cream face wash is suitable for dry and sensitive skin. With their rich and thick consistency, these cleansers can help to perform deep cleansing without stripping away their natural oils.

3. Foam cleansers

This type of face cleanser is lightweight and can create a foamy lather when mixed with water. Ideal for combination skin, these cleansers can help to effectively remove excess oil and impurities without over-drying the skin. They promise to balance oil in the T-zone while hydrating other areas.

4. Micellar cleansers

Suitable for all skin types, this type of cleanser contains micelles and tiny oil molecules that can act as a magnet to dirt and oil. This type of face wash may help to cleanse the skin without the need for rinsing. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, micellar cleansers deeply purify the skin without causing any irritation, making them ideal for sensitive skin.

5. Clay face wash

They contain natural clays like bentonite or kaolin that are known for their ability to absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from the pores. Specially formulated for oily and acne-prone skin, this type of cleanser may help to provide a deep cleanse without irritating.

Also Read: Cleanser vs face wash: What is the difference?

What ingredients to look for when choosing a face wash?

The effectiveness of a face cleanser mostly depends on its ingredients. So, paying attention to the ingredients of a face wash is necessary to avoid any potential risk of allergic reactions.

• Salicylic acid: This exfoliant can penetrate the pores to remove dead skin cells and reduce oil build-up, helping to prevent acne formation. Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, these ingredients may help to treat blackheads, whiteheads and general acne. According to the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, salicylic acid can act as a peeling agent and help to treat acne vulgaris, melasma, photodamage, freckles and more.
• Benzoyl peroxide: Ideal ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin, this ingredient promises to kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. It claims to help treat moderate to severe acne. A study published in StatPearls mentioned that benzoyl peroxide is a bactericidal that can help treat acne vulgaris.
• Hyaluronic acid: It is a powerful humectant that has the power to attract and retain moisture in the skin. This ingredient is suitable for dry skin as it helps to hydrate and plump the skin, reducing dryness and flakiness. According to the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, hyaluronic acid possesses the power to boost skin hydration, collagen production, elastin stimulation, skin tightness, reduce wrinkle scars and more.
• Ceramides: This ingredient works best for dry skin as it helps to restore and maintain the natural barrier of the skin. The presence of ceramides in skin care products can help to lock in moisture and protect against environmental damage. A study published in Dovepress states that ceramides can decrease TWL, which can then lead to boosting skin hydration and improved barrier function.
• Tea tree oil: Beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, tea tree oil is one of the most important ingredients that are found in face washes. It contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to soothe irritated skin and control oil production. According to the International Journal of Dermatology, tea tree oil can help treat acne vulgaris, promote the wound healing process and protect your skin against infections.
• Niacinamide: It is also known as vitamin B3. This is one of the most versatile ingredients that offers several skin benefits. A boon for all skin types, this ingredient can help regulate oil production, minimise the appearance of pores, and reduce redness and inflammation. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, niacinamide can improve the appearance of skin texture, hyperpigmentation and more.

How to choose a face wash for your skin type?

To have blemish-free skin that feels and looks smooth, clean and healthy, it is essential to use a face wash that suits your skin type and needs.

1. Best face wash for dry skin

Dry skin tends to feel tight, and flaky and lacks moisture. People with dry skin type must use a hydrating and moisturising face cleanser that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Cleansers that have a creamy or gel texture work well for dry skin as it helps to lock in moisture. It is also important to avoid harsh ingredients like sulphates and artificial fragrances.

2. Best face wash for oily skin

Oily skin is difficult to manage. Often characterised by excess oil production and enlarged pores, this skin type should use a face wash that contains oil-control and purifying ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid. Make sure to opt for a gentle, gel or foaming face cleanser that is labelled as “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free”.

Also Read: Best face washes for acne-prone skin in 2024: 10 top picks for you!

3. Best face wash for normal skin

Having a normal skin type is a blessing. It does not require any special treatment as it is the most balanced skin with no major skin concerns. This skin type is neither too oily nor too dry. So, to maintain the health of this skin type, you can use a gentle, non-foaming face wash. Ensure that the product is pH-balanced, lightweight, oil-free and fragrance-free to maintain the skin’s natural barrier.

4. Best face wash for sensitive skin

Managing sensitive skin is a big task as it gets easily irritated. This skin type is reactive and you may experience redness. So, to take care of your sensitive skin, you must opt for a face wash that contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. Make sure to use a face wash that is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and free from any harsh ingredients.

5. Best face wash for combination skin

Combination skin is a mix of oily and dry skin. This skin type is typically oily in the T-zone. To manage this skin, it is important to use a balancing formula that can control oil in the T-zone along with hydrating the dry area. So, opt for a face wash for combination skin that is lightweight, non-greasy and packed with clay or charcoal to help absorb excess oil.

What to avoid in face washes?

It is important to note that several face wash ingredients do more harm than good. One of them being alcohol. It can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to excessive dryness and irritation. Other such ingredients that you must avoid are sulphates and parabens. They can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, and cause dryness, hormonal imbalance and other health concerns. Synthetic fragrances, dyes, phthalates and triclosan are some of the ingredients that can negatively impact the skin microbiome, and trigger allergies, irritation and breakouts. So, make sure to always opt for face washes that are free of these ingredients.

The experts recommend looking for gentle ingredients instead of harsh ingredients like paraben, alcohol and sulphates. These ingredients can worsen your skin conditions as they can increase sensitivity, strip the skin of its natural oil and cause breakouts.

Also Read: Best paraben-free face wash: 6 top options for gentle cleansing

What is the correct way of using a face wash?

Following a proper method of using a face wash is essential to get effective results. Dr Shareefa Chause recommends a few useful tips to make the most of your face wash:

• Before applying face wash, wet your face with lukewarm water or cold water.
• Then apply a small amount of face wash to your entire face.
• Massage your face with gentle hands instead of rubbing for better results.
• After deep cleansing, rinse it and pat dry your face with a cotton towel to absorb excess moisture.

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• What is the rule for face wash?

Face wash should be used correctly to avoid any harsh reactions. The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests a few tips for using a face wash to maintain skin health. Make sure to use a gentle and non-abrasive face wash that is free from alcohol. Wash your face with lukewarm water and fingers with gentle movements. Avoid scrubbing your face with face wash as it may cause irritation and always use a soft towel to dry your skin. After washing your face, don’t forget to apply moisturiser.

• Can face wash expire or go bad?

Yes, face wash can expire or go bad. So, check the label for an expiration date or a period-after-opening symbol. Typically, a face wash lasts for 12 to 24 months. But if you notice any changes in texture, smell or appearance, discard the product. Using expired face wash may lead to reduced effectiveness, irritation or infection. Always store face wash properly to maintain its quality.

• How often should you use face wash?

The frequency of face wash use can differ from individual to individual as it is a personal choice. Dr Shareefa says, “People should note that over-washing can make your skin dry and dull. So, using face wash once or twice a day seems harmless.” The American Academy of Dermatology Association states that washing the face once in the morning, once before bedtime and after sweating is enough to maintain the health and appearance of your skin.

Follow this guide to select the right face wash according to your skin type and improve your skin health.