Which Face Cleanser Should I Choose?

There are two types of skincare peeps. The ones who are happy with a flick of a face wipe and a swipe of moisturiser. And there are the ones who think the Korean 10-step cleansing guide just isn't quite thorough enough!

No matter where you sit on the face cleaning scale, one thing is for sure - you should be cleansing your face every single day!

The skincare aisle is bursting with different types of cleansers, so if you're not sure where to start we're here to help by separating the foams from the gels and the wipes from the balms.

But first... are you using the right cleanser for your skin type?

What Skin Type Do I Have?

To choose the right products for your skin you need to know the type of skin you have. If you’re unsure, see if your skin falls into any of these common categories below:

Combination Skin

Combination skin can fluctuate between feeling dry and oily. You may also find you have a shiny T-Zone, are prone to blackheads and areas of dryness from time to time.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is lacking in oil (not to be confused with lacking in water, which makes the skin dehydrated). You may feel tightness in your skin after showering or washing your face and red or flaky patches is common for you.

Sensitive Skin

If your skin is easily irritated, itches or has rashes - then you could have sensitive skin. This skin type can be easily aggravated by the weather, hormones, stress, diet and beauty products.

Normal Skin

Those lucky few with a normal skin type will find they have a healthy oil balance, a clear complexion, even skin tone and a radiant glow to their complexion.

Group sho of B. by Superdrug Micellar water

Choosing a Cleanser for Your Skin Type

There are quite a few options out there on the market, so we’re going to go straight in with your main choices…

Gel Cleanser

Suitable for: normal, combination or oily skin that is prone to redness.

Go for a gel cleanser if you like a lightweight option that hydrates the skin. A quality gel cleanser will easily remove traces of make up and leave your skin feeling fresh.

Light Foaming Cleanser

Suitable for: Combination or oil skin that can be sensitive to breakouts.

If you want to thoroughly cleanse your skin, without the product feeling too heavy, then try a light foaming cleanser. Choose one that is free from added fragrance and is gentle on your skin.

Sorry, this product is currently out of stock.

Simple Simple Kind to Skin Refreshing Facial Wash £4.60 3 for 2 on selected Simple

B. Skincare B. Instant Foaming Cleanser 100ML £8.99 Buy 1 get 1 free on selected B. Skincare

Oil-Based Cleanser

Suitable for: all skin types.

An oil-based cleanser is ideal if you need to remove heavier makeup or if you double cleanse every evening. Use your oil-based cleanser first, then follow up with a gel, cream or lotion. This type of cleanser will also leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Micellar/ Water-Based Makeup Remover

Suitable for: all skin types.

Use micellar water on a cotton pad to remove surface traces of makeup and dirt. Follow up with a second cleanse using a richer cleanser to ensure there is no makeup left on your skin.

Sanctuary Spa Sanctuary Spa Melt Away Cleansing Oil 150ml £0.49

Garnier Garnier Micellar Rose Water 400ml £4.49

Cleansing Balm

Suitable for: normal, very dry and sensitive skin.

This type of cleanser will deeply nourish your skin leaving it feeling soft and moisturised. Apply to your skin in circular motions and remove gently with a soft, wet wash cloth. It is not advised to use this cleanser if you have oily or acne prone skin.

Cream and Lotions Cleanser

Suitable for: normal, dry and sensitive skin.

If you like your skin to feel moisturised while you are cleaning it, then this is the cleanser for you. The silky texture removes most traces of makeup, but you may need to double cleanse if you wear waterproof products.

Simple Simple X Kindness Biogradable Cleansing Facial Wipes 20pc £3.65 3 for 2 on selected Simple

Naturally Radiant Superdrug Naturally Radiant Hot Cloth Face Cleanser 150ml £4.49

Face Wipes

Suitable: for all skins types (most face wipes will be formulated for certain skin types, so always check the packet)

Whether you love them or hate them, face wipes do come in handy from time to time! They are great if you are on the go, to use at the gym or you need a quick surface cleanse without the use of water - but they shouldn't replace a regular cleansing routine!

Superdrug Superdrug Essential Cleansing Face Wipes - Fragrance Free

B. Skincare B. Pure Sensitive Micellar Cleansing Wipes x25 £1.49

Do I Need to Double Cleanse?

Ideally, yes! Double cleansing isn’t a myth – it really is beneficial for your skin. You can use the same cleanser twice to ensure you really have removed all traces of makeup and grime, but you may want to mix up your options.

The first cleanse should remove surface dirt and light makeup. You may want to use a micellar water or cleansing water for this step.

The second cleanse is a much deeper, more thorough clean which you will want to get deeper into the skin to cleanse, sooth and remove heavier application of makeup. Consider a foaming, gel, cream or lotion cleanser for this step.