How to find the perfect cleanser for your skin type: your definitive guide to 6 different types, from gel-based and creamy formulas to foam, oil and micellar water solutions

Jun 5 , 2023

It is essential to choose the right cleanser for your skin type as you might end up spending a tonne of money trying to reverse the adverse effects from an inappropriate cleanser. Photo: Handout

After a long day out, there’s nothing more satisfying than washing off all the dirt, sweat and make-up built up over the hours – so finding the right cleanser is essential for the process

From gel cleansers at InnBeauty and creamy formulas at Nuebiome, to foam solutions at Caudalie and balms from Glow Recipe, there’s something for every skin type

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of washing your face after a long day.

Getting rid of all the dirt, sweat and make-up built up throughout the day is essential to allow your skin repair itself and offer a clean surface to apply other products to improve your skin.

Investing in the right type of cleanser is the wise thing to do. Photo: Handout

With so many types of facial cleansers available on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, but knowing the difference between each type can make it a lot easier to find the right one for you.

Here’s our definitive list to help you find your perfect cleanser.

Types of cleansers

1. Gel cleansers

Gel cleansers are good for all skin types. Photo: InnBeauty

You may have guessed it already – gel cleansers do, in fact, look and feel like gel. They’re perfect for deep cleansing, gently clearing out congested pores, controlling excess oil and even eliminating pesky acne-causing bacteria. Overall, they’re considered mild yet effective for all skin types, so if you battle oily skin, sensitivity or acne, a gel cleanser may be a great option.

2. Cream cleansers

Cream cleansers are ideal for dry and sensitive skin. Photo: Nuebiome

If you’re looking for a gentle but effective formula, then cream cleansers are a worthy contender. They tend to be on the thick and creamy side, perfect for dry or sensitive skin types. Unlike harsher cleansers, they won’t strip your skin of its natural oils and some of them can even boost your skin’s hydration levels, cleansing gently while keeping your skin nourished.