Cleanser vs face wash: Understanding the differences and when to use each

Abhinaya Rao
2015-11-16T16:39:00+05:30

Hi you,

"Is there a difference between a cleanser & a face wash?", "When should I use what?", "Should I use both?" - have these questions cropped up in your mind at some point? You're not alone! We get asked these questions a lot, and guess what, decided to bring the answer to Plum Blogs! Here are our easy answers to these and some other fundamental questions related to cleansing & cleansers. Let’s jump right in!

What's the basic difference between a face wash & a cleansing lotion?

While both cleansers & face-washes do the basic common job of cleansing your face, a facewash is a foaming cleanser while a cleansing lotion/cleansing milk (or simply called "cleanser") is non-foaming in nature and doesn’t have to be washed off- and instead needs to be wiped off.

Do they do the same thing or different things?

Both face washes & cleansers are used to rid your face of dirt, oil, pollution etc. A cleanser dissolves away excess oil, makeup and grime from your face. These are oil-soluble impurities. They can be removed by a face wash too, but that might be not be 100% effective.

A face wash's job is to remove deeper seated debris and also cleanse pores, thanks to its foaming action. If you're wearing a lot of makeup, or have been exposed to a lot of dust and pollution, it might be a good idea to use a cleanser first, before using a face wash.

When should I use face wash & when should I use cleanser?

It depends on your daily routine. For example, you could use a foaming face wash in the morning and as soon as you get home from work. But if you’ve braved heavy traffic & pollution on your way home, consider using a cleanser first and then a face wash. Another popular way of using a cleansing lotion is later at night, just before going to bed so your face is "impurity-free" while you are asleep.

Cleansers can also be used as the first step while putting on makeup as it moisturizes the face along with gently cleansing it.

I have very sensitive skin. Can I skip face wash and use only a cleanser?

No that's not recommended. The foaming action and micro-level cleansing of a face wash cannot be substituted by a cleanser alone. Here's what you could do if you have sensitive skin:

1. Use a gentle face wash just once a day. Morning or evening, depending on requirement. And avoid soap altogether.

2. Use a gentle cleanser once or twice a day.

The basic idea is to cleanse your face in a balanced manner, without over-doing it.

I don't wear makeup. Do I need to use a cleansing lotion?

We recommend cleansing lotion to anyone who's exposed to a polluted atmosphere, and not just to those who wear makeup. And cleansers are especially good for dry or sensitive skin.

If you have combination or oily skin, and don't wear makeup, you could skip using a cleanser altogether and just use a facewash.

How do I pick the right face wash or cleanser?

Everyone needs a face wash - pick one that suits your skin type. And before buying one, take a look at the ingredients to get a sense of whether it might overly dry your skin, whether it is soap-free etc. - especially if you have sensitive skin.

The main considerations while picking a cleanser are: it should be gentle on your skin and not excessively oily either.

Is there a "right" way to use face wash and cleansers?

Yes! Catch these 2-minute tutorials to get the most out of your cleansing and face wash routines!

The right way to use a face wash

The right way to get the perfect cleanse

And as always, feel free to write in if you have any more questions on anything skincare. You know where to reach us! Have a great day ahead & happy cleansing!

Related Posts:

DIY: Glowing skin in 4 easy steps

2-minute tutorials: Home facial with a clay mask

2-minute tutorials: Getting your face wash right

2-Minute Tutorials: How to Get a Perfect Cleanse

Related Products:

Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash

Hello Aloe Gentle Cleansing Lotion