In my previous blog I already emphasized the importance of cleansing your face properly. But what works for your skin can be bad for someone else. It is essential that your cleanser suits your specific skin type and condition. But how do you choose the right cleanser for oily or combination skin?
Active ingredients in your cleanser
A cleanser does not need to be packed with active ingredients, as these are usually rinsed away during cleansing. There are methods to leave active ingredients, such as salicylic acid, on the skin after rinsing. This can be done, for example, by encapsulating the active ingredient in tiny spheres of phospholipids, polymers or silicones. This technique ensures that the active ingredient remains active and does not mix with other ingredients, so that it remains on the skin after cleansing. Although this sounds impressive, in practice it is difficult to get enough active ingredient on the skin in this way. In addition, the pH of the product must be low to be effective, which can lead to eye irritation. Therefore, it is often wiser to use active ingredients in other products such as a toner, moisturizer or exfoliant.
Pay attention to the detergents
When choosing a cleanser for normal to oily skin, it is important to pay attention to the detergents used. There are many aggressive cleansers on the market that claim to thoroughly cleanse oily skin or blemishes, but it is best to avoid these. Instead, choose a cleanser that does not or barely foam; these generally contain milder detergents and reduce the chance of irritation. A useful rule of thumb: if your skin feels tight after washing, the cleanser is too aggressive. Some mild detergents that are suitable for the skin are: Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Laureths (-4, -7, -23), Sodium Cocoamphoacetate (not to be confused with sodium cocoate, which is less mild), and Lauric Acid. Avoid detergents such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Palmate, Salvia Officinalis, Sodium Cocoate and Sodium Palm Kernelate.
Mild cleansing, also for oily skin
Normal to oily skin also benefits from a mild cleansing. Use a cleanser that removes excess sebum and bacteria without damaging or drying out the skin. This skin type can usually be cleansed twice a day with a gentle cleanser.
Cleansing Tips for Oily Skin with Pimples
If you have oily skin with spots but without extreme sensitivity, you can use a light foaming cleanser, as long as you rinse well with water. For this skin type, a cleansing brush, such as the Clarisonic, can also be effective, as long as you replace the brushes regularly and don’t overuse them. Even better is using an exfoliant with salicylic acid, which deeply cleanses the pores and helps reduce inflammation. You can read more about this topic in my blog about exfoliants.
Extra tips for clean skin
- Always cleanse your face before going to bed.
- Wash your face after exercising.
- Use lukewarm water.
- Pat your face dry instead of rubbing it.
- Use a clean towel.
- Apply your toner or moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp.
Product recommendations
Dr. Jetske Ultee – Cleanser (normal to oily skin)
- Contains mild detergents
- Fragrance free and vegan
- Gel-like texture with light foaming; less greasy ingredients than the dry skin variant.
Paula's Choice – Clear Facial Cleanser
- Mild detergents
- Fragrance free and vegan
- Suitable for oily and impure skin.
Neutral – Face Wash Lotion
- Mild detergents
- Fragrance free and vegan
- Suitable for normal to oily and sensitive skin; also suitable for dryness.
CeraVe – Foaming Facial Cleanser
- Mild, slightly foaming formula
- Fragrance free and vegan
- Specially developed for oily and sensitive skin types.
Dermolin – Face Wash
- Mild detergents
- Fragrance free and vegan
- Ideal for oily skin.
Zarqa – Clear Skin Cleansing Gel
- Contains mild detergents
- Fragrance free and vegan
- Suitable for oily and/or sensitive skin.