Here’s Exactly How to Choose the *Perfect* Cleanser for Your Skin Type
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If you’re religious about your cleansing routine, we applaud you. There’s nothing better for your skin than staying on top of its cleanliness – after all, clean skin = healthy skin. You’ll be at less risk of acne breakouts, oil build-up and a dull appearance to name a few, if cleansing is one of your top skincare priorities.
But whilst it’s all very well cleansing regularly, the cleanser you’re actually doing it with is important too. Because if you’re using the wrong one for your skin type, all hell could break lose, regimented cleansing routine or not.
Here, dermatologist at DermOnDemand, Hannah Kopelman, takes us through all the different cleansers available and which one works best for which skin type. Once you know which one is best for you, your skin can start living its best life.
Why cleansing is so important
“Cleansing is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine as it removes dirt, excess oil, makeup, and environmental pollutants that accumulate on the skin throughout the day,” Kopelman explains.
“Without cleansing, these impurities can clog pores, leading to breakouts and dull-looking skin. It also preps the skin for other skincare products like serums and moisturizers, allowing them to penetrate more effectively. In short, proper cleansing is key to maintaining clear, healthy, and balanced skin.”
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Should you always cleanse with water?
Those who have time, usually cleanse with water. Others opt for a quick swipe with a cleansing milk or micellar water-soaked cotton pad. But which method is best? “Both methods have their merits, but it really depends on your skin type and the time of day,” Kopelman says.
“I typically recommend cleansing with water at least once a day, usually in the evening, to ensure that all makeup, SPF, and environmental debris are thoroughly removed,” she explains.
“In the morning, using a cotton pad with micellar water or cleansing milk can be a gentle, refreshing way to cleanse without over-stripping the skin.”
The different types of cleansers
Gel
“Gels have a refreshing, lightweight, gel-like consistency that really gives a deep clean, especially if you’re dealing with clogged pores,” says Kopelman. “I find that gel cleansers with salicylic acid or tea tree oil are particularly effective because they help to control oil and keep the skin clear without feeling harsh or drying.”
Milk
Although it may sound more like a dairy product, this cleanser is exactly how you might imagine it; a thin, milk-like fluid that’s often a favourite of those with sensitive skin.
“When I recommend a milk cleanser, I think of its creamy, lightweight texture that feels almost like a lotion on the skin,” Kopelman explains. “I love that milk cleansers often include hydrating ingredients like glycerin or natural oils, which leave the skin feeling soft and balanced.”
Balm
“Balm cleansers are like a little spa treatment in your skincare routine,” she says. “They start as a solid, then melt into a luxurious oil as you massage them into your skin. I love recommending these for anyone looking to remove stubborn makeup or if you just want a really nourishing, deep cleanse.”
So, which ingredients are most beneficial in a balm? “I always suggest looking for balms with shea butter or coconut oil for that extra moisture boost.”
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Foam
A foam is most likely to be just how you’re imagining it, explains Kopelman. “It’s airy, bubbly lather gives a really thorough clean, which can be satisfying if you’re dealing with a lot of oil or makeup,”
However, she says to use it in moderation as it can be a bit drying. “If you love that squeaky-clean feeling, just make sure to follow up with a good moisturizer to keep your skin balanced.” Typical ingredients include glycerin, niacinamide and chamomile.
Oil
“Oil cleansers work by breaking down oil-based impurities like makeup and sunscreen while maintaining skin moisture,” she explains. “The texture is rich and silky, and it’s a treat to massage onto your face.
Look for formulas with jojoba or sunflower seed oil for an effective cleanse that doesn’t feel greasy.” Also, don’t write it off if you have oily skin. “It’s surprising to many, but even those with oily skin can benefit from oil cleansers – using oil to dissolve oil can actually help balance out sebum production.”
Micellar water
“They’re handy for sensitive skin types or for those on the go who want a quick cleanse without water.” Micellar waters are purified water with spheres of oil suspended in it. Look out for ingredients like rose water to soothe, and niacinamide to protect and nourish.
Which one is best for your skin type?
Oily Skin – Gel
“A gel cleanser works best because it helps remove excess oil and deeply cleanses the pores without causing over-drying,” Kopelman says.
Dry Skin – Milk or balm
“These are ideal since they’re nourishing and help maintain moisture while gently removing impurities.”
Combination skin – Foam or gel
“These are great as they can help balance the oilier areas while not overly stripping the drier zones,” she explains.
Normal skin – Most
“Most cleansers work well, but a gentle gel or milk cleanser can keep the skin balanced without irritation.”
Sensitive Skin – Milk or oil
“They are gentle and soothing, helping to maintain the skin barrier while cleansing without causing irritation.”
Image – Ohlamourstudio/Stocksy
Should you cleanse with the aid of a muslin or washcloth?
It can be quite confusing when you read about cleansing, some products suggest using a washcloth and others don’t. But Kopelman says it depends on your skin type.
“Certain skin types can benefit from specific tools,” she says. “For example, dry or sensitive skin should typically avoid rough exfoliants like muslin cloths, as they can irritate the skin. Instead, using your fingers or a cotton pad with a gentle cleanser is preferable.”
What about oily or combination skin types? “These can benefit from using a muslin cloth or flannel once or twice a week to exfoliate and remove any excess oil or dead skin cells. However, I always recommend listening to your skin – if a tool or product feels too harsh, it’s best to stop and opt for something gentler.”
The takeaway
With so many cleanser formulas for different skin types, it’s not surprising that people get confused. But hopefully, you can use Kopelman’s easy to understand guide above to determine which formula is for your skin.
But remember, you know your skin best, so if a cleanser isn’t agreeing with it, stop using it completely and try something different. And if you find that cleansing with water twice a day is proving too much for your skin, you can use micellar water or cleansing milk on a cotton pad in the morning to give it a break.
Meet the expert
Dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman has completed two clinical fellowships in dermatology – hair loss from Columbia University and skin cancer from Boston University. She is also extremely active on Youtube, Instagram, Tiktok ,and also has a weekly dermatology podcast called Derm Club.
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