Going to start your skincare journey? Maybe the first thing that you will do is clean your face. But two products are bound to confuse beginners, mainly the Face cleanser or face wash. So, what exactly are they, and which to choose? Here are some basic differences between cleanser and face wash for you. So, you got them right!
What Is A Face Wash?
Let’s start with the face wash! It is a product that has a liquid form, which is most likely used to cleanse your face. It is the right replacement for traditional soap or bar soap. The thing about it that differs from a cleanser is the stronger compound that delivers refined cleansing compared to a cleanser.
How so? Most of the time, the benefit comes from the form and texture. The face wash is made of liquid and has a foamy solution. It is easier to use and can get deeper into the skin to provide better cleanup. As a result, the skin feels clean and refreshed. That is why, most face wash products are also known to remove grime and deep-seated filth.
What Is A Cleanser?
How about a cleanser? Cleanser is known for its light cleaning formula, which is mostly meant to eliminate dirt from faces and keep them clean. But, it does not make a deep cleaning. The difference between cleanser and face wash is its capability in cleaning. Most cleansers are meant to clean the lighter dirt and give a clean from dirt or oil problems.
In this case, one of the common applications is to remove makeup. You can find some products mainly as part of cleansing kits. The face cleanser is mostly the first step to do. It will remove the oil, grime, and makeup before sleep. And you can see it is different from face wash as it has non-foaming liquids without the need to be washed out after use.
What Makes Them Similar but Also Different?
1. Texture and Foam
If talking about the main difference between the two, the most obvious one is the texture and the foam production. How so? First, the face wash has a liquid form that can create more foam as you rub and add water. Why does it produce foam? The foam is vital to keep the face hydrated, rejuvenated, and feel clean.
On the other hand, the difference between cleanser and face wash is also seen in the product. Many face cleansers have a less watery form, which makes it has less to no foam at all. The best example is micellar water. It mostly does not provide that moisturizing or refreshing feeling, but it can help soothe and purify your skin better.
2. Gentleness
One thing that many people underline is the gentleness of the product. In this case, face wash ingredients and plain soap are pretty similar. But it is softer to use over regular soap, especially to remove dirt from the skin. Some products are even made for specific users, such as people with sensitive skin or acne-prone problems.
The cleansers are pretty similar. When compared to plain soap, the ingredients and its effect are way better. It can appear in different forms, including creamy to milky gel. Depending on the formula, it can provide gentle cleaning. However, it is best to note that face cleansers are only eliminating oil and pollutants.
3. Application
When it comes to application, the main difference between cleanser and face wash is related to the skin type. Face wash can provide a deeper cleaning effect, which is needed for people with oily skin or oily sensitive skin. They will break down grime, oil, or pollutant better compared to cleansers.
For cleanser, most people use it as a double cleanser or the first or second step of cleansing. There are many formulas following the main function as a cleaning agent for your skin. It includes the hydrating and invigorating formula, which is good for dry and sensitive skin. It is also the perfect skincare and cleaner for people who are wearing cosmetics or exposed to pollution.
4. Usages
Depending on the skin condition and activities, both cleaning products can be used several times. But most cases highlight that the face wash is used during the morning before daily activity or work. It freshens up your face and makes it clean. On the opposite, the cleanser is mostly used to remove dirt after the makeup or activity, which refreshes and lifts any dirt or grime.
Head Up on Bar Soap!
Considering the two products are similar, then how about a bar soap? One sure thing is that bar soap does have similar ingredients to lift pollutants and clean your skin from any dirt, grime, or oil. But it does not mean, the bar soap is good for your face. Bar soap is bound to have a stronger formula, that may contain irritating ingredients. So, avoid using it for your face.
While the difference between cleanser and face wash is mostly on how deep it can cleanse, most of them also have formula to keep your skin healthy and clear. Some of them are antioxidant, hydrating formulas, and pore-cleaning ingredients. They are made specifically for your face, so you can avoid problems such as skin barrier problems, stripping, and drying out.
Which One to Choose?
Among the two products, what should you choose? In this case, you can consider your skin condition or skin type. Don’t forget to check out the ingredients, and ensure they help clean up any dirt plus nourish your face. The secret of vibrant skin is by using both. Start with the cleanser and clean up the rest with face wash. With that, you know the difference between cleanser and face wash and know what to do.
In one way or another, the two serve the same purpose. But, the two are like sibling that is similar but not alike. With that, understanding the uses, application, and texture can help you get the optimal objective. Anyway, they can help you clean your skin and face, but pick one that fits your needs and skin condition. So, you can avoid irritation or skin problems.
