How to Choose a Face Wash

With so many options, you’re probably wondering if you should be using a cream cleanser, gel cleanser or foaming cleanser.⠀

Finding the best face wash suitable for your skin type is really important as this can delay healing; especially if you have problematic skin such as acne. 

Read on to find the best face wash for your skin type. 
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DRY SKIN⠀
If your skin is generally dry, you will find it is more beneficial to use a soap free creamy or milk cleanser which do not contain harsh chemicals, perfumes or alcohols. Our favourite is the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser loaded with ceramides.
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SENSITIVE SKIN⠀
Gentle free products free of irritants, similar to those used for Dry Skin. Look for labels such as “hypoallergenic”, “gentle” or “calming”.⠀

Our favourite is the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser loaded with ceramides or Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser.
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OILY SKIN ⠀
Oily skin is usually a result of hormones and is usually more prone to break outs. Foaming and Gel cleansers that are oil free and won’t clog pores tend to provide the deepest clean; removing dirt, bacterial and oil. ⠀
They are more effective cleansing products but also tend to be more irritating especially if your skin type is more towards the dry sensitive type.⠀

Our personal favourite is the elle derm Exfoliating Face Wash. These are oil free and contain Alpha Hydroxy Acids to effectively rejuvenate your skin without over drying. 
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COMBINATION SKIN⠀
Our Combination type skin partners tend to have both oily and dry skin. If you do have quite an oily T-Zone, opt to use a Foaming cleanser in this area and a milk cleanser for the rest of the face. ⠀
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TIPS⠀
Your skin type can change according to climate, age, diet and hormone so it is a good idea to listen to your skin and respond, adapt quickly.⠀
It is recommended we cleanse twice daily to remove bacteria and oil from the skin surface. If you only cleanse once a day, make sure you do not skip the evening routine. 

Author: Helen Lam, Pharmacist and Editor for ellé derm