What is the difference between them, and which one will be best for your skin, Cleanser vs Face Wash
It is essential to follow the proper skincare routine to get healthy and glowing skin. When it comes to face cleansing, I’m unsure what sets face wash apart from Cleanser. It is a common confusion. The purpose of Cleanser and face wash is different, but most people consider both to be the same.
If you’re unsure which Cleanser vs face wash is right for your skin type, this blog post will help you know the difference. Here, we will explore cleanser vs face wash in detail which product is best suited for each skin type and how to use it correctly.
Table of Contents
- What is a Cleanser?
- What is a face wash?
- Cleanser vs Face Wash : 5 Key Differences You Should Know
- Which one will be good for your skin cleanser vs face wash ?
- Best skin care routine: double cleaning method (cleanser vs face wash)
- Frequently asked questions ( FAQs )
- Conclusion about Cleanser Vs Face Wash
What is a Cleanser?
1. Purpose of Cleanser
The Cleanser is a gentle and cleansing agent that is useful for the skin in removing oil, dirt, and makeup. Mostly, its texture is in the form of oil-based, creamy, balm or micellar water. It keeps your skin soft and hydrated.
2. How does it work?
Cleanser dissolves dirt and oil from your skin without any side effects or harshness Cleansers help to preserve the skin’s pH balance and enhance skin barrier protection. Cleanser is very effective for dry or sensitive skin because its formula is gentle and moisturizing.
3. Types of Cleanser
- 1. Oil-based Cleanser: Best for removing makeup or sunscreen from the face
- 2. Cream-based Cleanser: the perfect solution for persons with sensitive or dry skin
- 3. Mixer water: Lightweight and ideal for every kind of skin
- 4. Gel-based Cleanser: Best for those who have acne-prone or oily skin

What is a face wash?
1. Purpose of Face Wash
Face wash specially formulated for deep cleaning. It thoroughly cleanses your skin’s pores of impurities and excess oil. Its texture, being gel-based or foamy, will be much better and effective for people with oily skin.
2. How does it work?
Face wash deeply cleans the pores by removing extra oil. Problems like blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and acne remove by Face Wash. Face Wash may produce dry, rough skin, thus, it might not be appropriate for persons with sensitive or dry skin.
3. Types of Face Wash
- Forming face wash: This can be suitable for acne-prone or oily skin
- Exfoliating face wash: Best for removing dead skin cells, but not suitable for everyday use.
- Cream-based face wash: hydrating and gentle can be a good option for people with dry skin people
- Gel-based face wash: A Good option for people with normal and combination skin types people
Cleanser vs Face Wash : 5 Key Differences You Should Know
Features | Face wash | Cleanser |
---|---|---|
Texture | Foamy, and gel-based | Creamy, oil based, balm and Micellar water |
Purpose | Deep pores Cleansing, remove extra oil | Remove Dirt, oil and makeup |
Best for | Oily, combination & Acne-Prone skin | Dry, sensitive and normal skin |
Usage time | Mostly morning & post-workout | Morning and night |
Hydration | Dries a little bit | Hydrating & moisturizing |
Which one will be good for your skin cleanser vs face wash ?
If your skin falls in the category of dry or sensitive, then this Cleanser will be the best option for you. Your skin will become moisturized, clean, and smooth as a result. Trust me, this will be the best decision for you.
Face cleanser is also a good option if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Because it is effective in removing dirt and extra oil, it will keep acne under control.
If you have mixed skin, that is neither dry nor oily, you should wash your face in the morning and use a cleanser at night. It is the recommended routine. You can use both for good results.
Best skin care routine: double cleaning method (cleanser vs face wash)
If you follow a proper skincare routine or want to follow it, then the double cleansing method can be the right choice for you.
Step 1: Use Cleanser first
If you have put sunscreen or makeup on your face, remove it using an oil-based cleanser or balm. Cleanser cleans makeup and sunscreen properly.

Step 2: Use the second face wash
Apply face wash after the Cleanser to clean the pores deeply.
This process is particularly effective for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin.
Frequently asked questions ( FAQs )
1. Can I use only Cleanser?
Answer: Yes, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you can apply just a single cleanser. If you want to use a face wash, you can also follow the double cleansing method.
2. Is it necessary to use face wash and Cleanser together?
Answer: No, you should follow the correct method according to your skin condition.
3. Does Cleanser remove acne?
Answer: No, Cleanser does not treat acne, but can reduce acne scars to some extent. For acne-prone skin, a face wash containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide will be best.
4. Is it possible to remove makeup using face wash?
Answer: Face wash cleans the dirt from the surface, but it doesn’t remove waterproof makeup and sunscreen effectively. To remove these, apply Cleanser first.
5. Can I make use of both simultaneously?
Answer: Yes, if you are talking about double cleaning. First apply the Cleanser, then the face wash. If you follow this method in your night skincare routine, it will be helpful.
Conclusion about Cleanser Vs Face Wash
If you are looking for a gentle and hydrating cleanser for your skin, this one is the best choice. And a face wash will be a better option for deep cleansing.
If you want the benefits of both, then you can follow the double cleansing method, which will keep your skin dirt and oil-free, hydrated, soft, glowing, and clean.
It is essential to choose the right product according to your skincare routine and maintain consistency for beneficial results. Which do you think is better, cleanser vs face wash?
Want to learn more? Check out our other blogs on this topic here.