Face wash guide: How to choose the right one for your skin type

Are you planning to include a new face wash in your skincare routine but confused? Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right one.

Who doesn't want a radiant, glowing and blemish-free skin? We all want it but not everyone is blessed with the perfect and balanced skin type. This is the reason why it is necessary to follow a skincare routine. The first and the most important step in every skincare routine is cleansing. It helps to remove impurities, detoxify your skin and prepare it for the other steps. While it is easy to follow, it is hard to pick the right one with so many options available. From gentle to hydrating to exfoliating - the options are endless! If you are looking for the perfect face wash for your skin type, this guide can be helpful.

The right face wash for your skin type can keep it radiant and healthy.(Freepik)

What is a face wash?

A face wash is a skincare product designed to clean and purify the skin. It can help to tackle dirt, oil, makeup, impurities and product build-ups from the surface of the skin and prepare it for further skincare routine. They are generally enriched with ingredients like antioxidants, surfactants, pH balancers and more that may keep your skin soft and healthy. The International Journal of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis states that a gentle cleanser can shield the skin from conditions like acne and remove dead skin cells.

What are the benefits of a face wash?

Face washes are packed with numerous benefits, including moisturization, hydration, cleansing and more. Regular use of the right type of face for all skin types can work effectively to remove makeup, pollutants, dirt and oil, leaving it feeling supple and refreshed. Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr Mikki Singh says, "This not only helps maintain a clear complexion but also prevents clogged pores, acne, and dullness." A study published in the International Research Journal of Modernisation in Engineering Technology and Science states that a face wash can remove dead skin cells, stimulate blood circulation, exfoliate the pores and leave it feeling healthy and fresh.

Things to keep in mind when choosing a face wash:

1. Formulation

2. Ingredients

3. Ingredients to avoid

4. Your skin type

What are the different types of face wash?

Before choosing a face wash, it is essential to have a better understanding of its types.

1. Gel Face Wash

Gel-based face washes are lightweight and clear, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. They can deeply cleanse pores, remove excess oil, and help control breakouts without drying the skin.

2. Foam Face Wash

Foam face washes can create a rich lather that may effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup. They are great for oily or combination skin, providing a refreshing cleanse without stripping moisture.

3. Cream Face Wash

Cream face washes are rich and moisturising, which makes them suitable for dry or sensitive skin. They can gently cleanse while hydrating, leaving the skin soft and smooth without any tightness.

4. Exfoliating Face Wash

Exfoliating face washes contain small beads or acids like AHA/BHA to remove dead skin cells. They promote a brighter complexion and smoother texture, perfect for dull or rough skin.

5. Oil-Based Face Wash

Oil-based cleansers can dissolve makeup and impurities without stripping the natural oils of the skin. Ideal for dry or sensitive skin, they leave the face soft and nourished.

6. Clay Face Wash

Clay-based face washes absorb excess oil and detoxify the skin. They are perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, providing a matte, clean finish while reducing shine.

7. Micellar Face Wash

Micellar water-based face washes use micelles to attract dirt, oil, and makeup. Suitable for all skin types, they provide a gentle, no-rinse cleanse ideal for sensitive skin.

8. Herbal or Ayurvedic Face Wash

These face washes are formulated with natural ingredients like neem, turmeric, or aloe vera. They are gentle, chemical-free options that cater to various skin types while promoting a natural glow.

What ingredients to prefer when choosing a face wash?

When choosing a face wash, you must pay attention to its ingredients list. Some of the most common ingredients that a good face wash should include are:

1. Benzoyl peroxide: This skincare ingredient can tackle acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. It claims to help with acne vulgaris, leaving the skin looking clear.
2. Salicylic acid: It can penetrate the pores to effectively tackle dead skin cells and reduce oil build-ups. “This beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) can help to exfoliate and clear clogged pores, great for acne-prone skin,” says Dr Mikki Singh.
3. Hyaluronic acid: “It is known for its ability to retain moisture and is beneficial for dry skin,” adds Dr Mikki Singh. The International Journal of Biological Macromolecules states that hyaluronic acid can boost skin hydration, boost collagen production and reduce wrinkle scars.
4. Ceramides: It can help to restore and maintain the natural barrier of the skin. A face wash with ceramides can help to lock in moisture and shield your skin against environmental damage.
5. Tea tree oil: Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, a tea-tree-based face wash can soothe irritated skin and control oil production. “It is known for its antibacterial properties,” adds the expert.
6. Niacinamide: This versatile skincare ingredient may help to regulate oil production, minimize the appearance of pores and reduce redness and inflammation.
7. Aloe vera: “It contains soothing and anti-inflammatory and is ideal for sensitive or irritated skin,” says Dr Mikki Singh.

What ingredients to avoid when choosing a face wash?

With all the beneficial ingredients, some face washes may also contain harmful toxins. “When choosing a face wash, make sure to avoid alcohol-based options as they can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to excessive dryness and irritation,” says the expert. Additionally, you should also steer clear of sulphates and parabens as they may disrupt the skin's natural barrier and lead to dryness and hormonal imbalance. Apart from this, you should also avoid synthetic fragrances, dyes, phthalates and triclosan as they can cause allergic reactions, irritation and breakouts.

How to pick the right face wash for your skin type?

To get radiant and healthy skin, follow this guide to pick the right face wash that suits your skin type and concerns:

1. Best face wash for oily skin

Oily skin can be difficult to manage. “To control excess oil production and manage enlarged pores, people with oily skin should opt for gel or foaming face wash that contains ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid,” suggests Dr Mikki Singh.

2. Best face wash for dry skin

Dry skin can lead to flakiness and irritation as it lacks moisture. “If you have dry skin, look for a hydrating, creamy or oil-based face wash that contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin,” adds the expert. They can help to lock in moisture.

3. Best face wash for sensitive skin

Managing sensitive skin can leave you feeling overwhelmed. “Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free, and hydrating formula, such as micellar water or a mild cream cleanser with soothing ingredients like aloe or chamomile,” says the expert.

4. Best face wash for combination skin

Combination skin contains the characteristics of oily as well as dry skin. To manage an oily T-zone and dry cheek or chin, opt for a lightweight and non-greasy face wash that contains ingredients like clay or charcoal, which can absorb excess oil.

5. Best face wash for normal skin

Normal skin is neither too oily nor too dry. To maintain the health of this skin type, opt for a gentle, non-foaming face wash. Ensure that the product is free from oil, and fragrance and is pH balanced and lightweight.

6. Best face wash for acne-prone skin

“A cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can work better for acne-prone skin. It can help to prevent breakouts and clear pores without over-drying,” says the expert.

Skin type	Face wash formulation
Oily skin	Gel-based
Dry skin	Cream or oil-based
Sensitive skin	Micellar cleansers
Combination skin	Gel or cream-based cleansers
Normal skin	Non-foaming face wash
Acne-prone skin	Gel-based cleansers

How to use a face wash?

To get the most out of a face wash, it is essential to use it correctly. The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests a few tips for using a face wash:

1. Use a gentle and non-abrasive face wash that is free from alcohol.

2. Start by wetting your face with lukewarm water and then apply the face wash.

3. Avoid scrubbing your face as it may cause irritation.

4. Then, rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.

5. After that, apply a moisturizer to lock in moisture and keep the skin healthy.

6. Make sure to wash your face twice a day and after sweating.

Add the right face wash in your routine for skin health benefits!

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• What is a healthy skincare routine?

  "A healthy skincare routine generally includes, cleansing to remove impurities and prepare the skin for other products. Then use a toner to balance the skin’s pH and provide additional benefits like hydration or exfoliation. Follow with a serum for targeted treatment, use a moisturizer to lock in moisture and apply sunscreen for UV protection," says Dr Mikki Singh. Optional additions can include exfoliation (1-2 times per week) and eye creams, depending on your needs.

• How often should I use a face wash?

  "It is typically recommended to use a face wash twice a day—once in the morning to cleanse off oils produced overnight, and once at night to remove makeup, dirt, and pollution. If you have very sensitive skin, you may reduce usage to once a day and use a gentler cleansing option in the morning," says the expert.

• Can face wash expire or go bad?

  Yes, face wash can expire or go bad. So, check the label of the product for an expiration date or a period-after-opening symbol. Always store the face wash properly to maintain its quality. 

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